CATS

Getting two kittens at once is the easiest, followed by the introduction of a kitten to an adult cat. If the adult feline has never been exposed to other pets, adopting another cat may not always prove successful. Some pairs may get along quite well, while others simply learn to tolerate one another. Some cats will fight and develop behavior problems such as spraying and marking their territory. Urine marking is a sign of stress and conflict, but keep in mind that your cat is not doing this out of spite or to make you mad--these are human emotions.

Begin by placing cats in separate rooms and switching them on a daily basis so they can get used to each other's scent. Continue this separation process for about a week and then let them gradually approach each other. It is very common for cats to hiss or growl upon first sight. Do not get involved unless there is a fight. Don't try to separate fighting cats with your hands or you'll get injured. Throw a towel over one cat or a pail of water on both cats to startle them. Don't expect immediate 'friendship,' it may take months of perseverance.

Make sure each cat has easy access to its own litterbox, food and water dish. I always encourage owners to reward both cats with special treats (tuna, salmon, etc.) when they behave passively in each other's presence. They must learn to see the other cat as a stimulus for a reward. Attempt to play with both cats at the same time. Also, try bathing them with the same shampoo so they smell alike. When both cats are still wet, put them in the same room together--they will be so preoccupied with grooming themselves that they will forget about each other!

DOGS

Since dogs require obedience training, I do not recommend getting two puppies at the same time. If your canine companion is ill-mannered and unruly, the new dog will follow in stride. I usually recommend bringing a second dog into the family when the first dog is between 2 and 4 years.

Generally, a male and a female dog will get along best. Females usually want their way and males, being more flexible, tend to allow it. Some people err in bringing home a new puppy when their first dog is older and less active. This is not advised as the older dog may become depressed and/or lethargic as a result.

Make dog introductions on neutral territory. Begin by keeping them on very loose leads and allow them to sniff each other as they please. Do not pull them away or try to interfere. Keep in mind that sniffing their 'private' areas is like humans shaking hands. I frequently hear people say, 'Stop that. Be polite,' when, in fact, they are. If they begin to growl, remain calm and call them away. If they show signs of wanting to play (low bows, happy wags and bouncing), take them off lead and allow them to play. Reward both dogs with treats for good behavior. At home, each dog should have its own bed or crate, food and water dish. Have plenty of toys for both dogs and give them special attention when they are together. Do not give your first dog extra attention when the other is not present. Remember, they must see each other as an asset. Take your new dog to obedience class so both dogs learn to listen to their pack leader--you!

CATS AND DOGS

Cats and dogs are known to cohabitate very easily together. A kitten usually adapts easier to a dog than an adult cat, unless the adult feline lived with well-behaved dogs in the past. Do not bring a cat home until your dog is trained. It is unfair for a cat to be on constant guard because the dog will not leave him alone. Put your dog in a down stay and let the cat wander around the room and investigate. Reward your dog with a special treat. If the cat ventures over, reward the cat as well. If your dog can't remain still, put him in his crate so the cat feels safe.

If you already own a cat and intend to get a dog, confine the cat to one room while the puppy or dog explores the house. Then confine the dog to a crate and allow the cat to roam about. After the pair seem to be comfortable and calm within sight of each other, allow them some freedom in one room, but keep the dog on a lead so he cannot chase the cat. Again, your dog must go to obedience school to learn manners. Cats prefer dogs with good manners and so do people! Allow your cat access to high places and gated rooms so he can feel at ease.

Living in a multi-pet household can be a joy, but sometimes takes work on your part. Forcing a friendship will only make enemies. The key is patience. Take your time, remain calm and always remember to reward positive behaviors.