The first week with a new pet

The first days decide how a pet feels about its new home. The rule is the same for every kind of animal: go slowly, keep things quiet, and let the animal choose the pace.

Before the pet arrives

• Set up the bed, cage or tank completely. For fish, the tank must have been running for a few weeks already.
• Buy the same food the animal has been eating, so its stomach is not upset by a sudden change.
• Make the home safe: wires lifted, balcony and windows secured, medicines and cleaning liquids shut away.
• Choose a vet and book a first check-up.
• Agree the house rules: who feeds, who cleans, where the pet may go.

Day one

• Bring the pet home in a secure carrier, at a calm time of day.
• Take it straight to its own place and let it explore from there.
• Keep visitors away. Children should sit quietly and watch.
• Offer water and a small meal. Do not worry if it eats little today.
• Small animals and birds: leave them alone in their cage for the first day or two, with food and water.

Days two to four

• Keep meal times, lights-out and toilet breaks at the same hours each day. Routine makes animals feel safe.
• Sit near the pet and talk softly. Offer food from your hand.
• Dogs: start short walks and take the puppy to the same toilet spot after sleep, meals and play. Praise at once when it goes there.
• Cats: show the litter tray and keep the cat in one room at first.

Days five to seven

• Let the pet see more of the home, one room at a time.
• Introduce other pets slowly, with a barrier or a leash, for a few minutes at a time.
• Begin gentle handling, brushing and, for dogs, simple training with rewards.
• Go for the first vet check-up and take any records you were given.

What is normal, and what is not

Hiding, eating a little less and being quiet are normal for a few days. A pet that does not eat or drink at all, has loose motions, breathes with effort or seems weak needs a vet the same day.

This is a care guide, not veterinary advice. It covers housing, food, routine and safety. It does not diagnose or treat illness. If your pet seems unwell, is hurt or behaves differently, take it to a qualified veterinarian without delay.