Getting a second pet can bring out the green-eyed monster in your first pet. If you bring home a puppy or kitten your pet's nurturing instincts may come to the surface but if you bring home another adult cat or dog you can pretty much assume that fur may get a little ruffled, especially with cats.
We don't often think of pets succumbing to a petty human emotion like jealousy in the same manner that people do but they do get used to being the center of attention. It can be difficult and stressful for your pet to have to share your love and affection. Pets aren't just jealous of other animals. Jealousy can rear its head when a new baby or other person comes into your life and household.
Here are a few ways to curb the green-eyed monster in your pet.
If the source of jealousy is a new pet try introducing them to each other gradually. Bringing a new pet home and giving him free run of the house is likely to upset your first pet. Pets normally feel territorial toward their homes and you don't want your pet to feel as though his space is being invaded.
Keeping the two animals in separate areas of the home for a few days may be necessary. After a day or two you can switch their living quarters so that they can become accustomed to the scent of each other. This can help alleviate the stress once you introduce them face-to-face. Give them time to get used to each other. Give your first pet plenty of love and affection so that he doesn't feel left out. You might also try spending a little more time than usual playing with him and give him a few extra treats.
If your pet is jealous of a new baby give him time to adjust to your new family member. He will need time to get used to the new sounds and smells that come along with a new baby. Once again, give your pet plenty of love and attention. Let him know that he is still loved. You might try allowing your pet to lie nearby while you feed the baby. It will give him a chance to satisfy his curiosity and help him become accustomed to the child's presence.
We don't often think of pets succumbing to a petty human emotion like jealousy in the same manner that people do but they do get used to being the center of attention. It can be difficult and stressful for your pet to have to share your love and affection. Pets aren't just jealous of other animals. Jealousy can rear its head when a new baby or other person comes into your life and household.
Here are a few ways to curb the green-eyed monster in your pet.
If the source of jealousy is a new pet try introducing them to each other gradually. Bringing a new pet home and giving him free run of the house is likely to upset your first pet. Pets normally feel territorial toward their homes and you don't want your pet to feel as though his space is being invaded.
Keeping the two animals in separate areas of the home for a few days may be necessary. After a day or two you can switch their living quarters so that they can become accustomed to the scent of each other. This can help alleviate the stress once you introduce them face-to-face. Give them time to get used to each other. Give your first pet plenty of love and affection so that he doesn't feel left out. You might also try spending a little more time than usual playing with him and give him a few extra treats.
If your pet is jealous of a new baby give him time to adjust to your new family member. He will need time to get used to the new sounds and smells that come along with a new baby. Once again, give your pet plenty of love and attention. Let him know that he is still loved. You might try allowing your pet to lie nearby while you feed the baby. It will give him a chance to satisfy his curiosity and help him become accustomed to the child's presence.
- Jealousy can rear its head when a new baby or other person comes into your life and household.
- Give them time to get used to each other.
- Make sure you continue to give your pet plenty of time and attention.
|
|