Begin separately
Give each pet secure resources and time to adjust without direct contact.
- Use closed doors or sturdy barriers
- Exchange bedding or scent items
- Feed at comfortable distances on opposite sides
Add controlled visibility
Short visual sessions help you observe comfort before closer contact.
- Use gates, leads, or cracked doors safely
- Reward calm disengagement
- Stop when tension rises
Supervise shared time
Increase freedom only after repeated relaxed sessions.
- Remove high-value conflict items
- Provide multiple escape routes and resources
- Separate whenever nobody can supervise
Practical checklist
- Separate areas ready
- Resources duplicated
- Barrier secure
- Body language monitored
- Backup separation plan ready
Educational information only. This guide does not replace advice from a licensed veterinarian.