First, take the time to really think about it. Here are a few things to consider: How much time can I invest? What is the space available? What is my budget?

Even if your child claims to absolutely want a dog or a gold fish and to be prepared to take care of the pet day and night; in reality, that commitment might last a few weeks at most. Instead of telling children that their pet will have to go back to the shelter if they don’t take care of it, keep in mind from the get-go that the pet will often wind up being your responsibility…Remember that pets are not toys: they are sensible creatures who will form a bond with their family, often in a very short time!

Get information on the breed you’re interested in to make sure it fits with your lifestyle.

We often see those touching stories of cats and rats or birds sharing a beautiful friendship on Facebook. This can happen in real life, but there are also sad tales of predation. Don’t forget that cats are highly instinctive and skilled hunters.

Some sad stories can be easily prevented. Think of those retired greyhounds who suddenly share a home with a rabbit… After being trained to run after a prey for years, there’s a good chance the dog might attack the rabbit.

Yes, but it would be preferable to have them neutered, especially if a male coexists with a female. We recommend introducing the rats in a neutral place and to keep 2 separate cages. Then, if things go well and there are no signs of aggression, you can use a very big cage containing several supply points and water sources. Don’t forget to use a 3-tier cage with stairs and passageways. Rats are highly intelligent and need stimulation.

If your rats share a living space, you can avoid fights by providing a steady supply of food. Also, include shelters with 2 openings to allow rats to escape more easily if physical attacks occur.

Rabbits can easily coexist, but both males and females need to be neutered. Actually, they tend to live longer when they have a companion. Ideally, do not keep rabbits in a cage. They are very territorial and need a lot of space in their natural habitat. You can also avoid competition over resources by providing several food and water bowls, as well as litter boxes.

Important note: Rabbits and ferrets cannot coexist. Since ferrets are carnivores, they see rabbits as prey, so do not take any unnecessary risk. Rabbits can also be annoyed by screeching birds.

When we want to have more than one ferret, it is better to have them at a young age and at the same time, so they can grow together. When we want to introduce an adult ferret to another, a gradual introduction in a wide and neutral space is highly recommended. Ferrets are players, and using games as an introduction mean is a good idea.

Ferrets can usually share a home with cats and dogs, as long as they don’t prey one another; but not with preys like birds, guinea pigs, and rabbits.

It’s easier for parrots of the same species to coexist, but nothing is impossible. However, we don’t recommend mixing species with a considerable difference in size because of the high risk of death in case of conflicts.

We suggest starting by placing the parrots in separate cages far from one other, ideally in different rooms. This way, they will hear each other’s chatter, and the introduction will be gradual.

Bring the cages closer over a stretch of time and make sure that the parrots are still comfortable with the situation. When their cages are close to one another (without being completely pushed together), start to take the birds out at the same time and foster positive interactions through games and treats.

Depending on the relationship the parrots will develop (friends or a couple) and the size of the cage/aviary, it might be preferable to keep the parrots in separate cages and take them out at the same time. You have to be extremely patient: the integration can take weeks or even months, or it very well might never happen.

Remember that we only have one change to make a good impression! Each house being different, check with your veterinary team before adding a new member to your family. This way you can work on a plan that is specific to your reality. Introducing a new animal in your household is a good example when prevention is better than a cure! A little planning can go a long way and save you a lot of trouble.