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Help and support for adopters

Once you've taken your new family pet home, we've prepared loads of free online content for you, organised by species, to use whenever you need to - why not take a look at our pet care advice?

Remember, we're still here for advice and support.  If you can't find the information you need get in touch with the centre you adopted from and they'll do their best to help with any questions you may have.

General pet care advice

Your new pet will have been neutered, vaccinated and microchipped as appropriate by us - so there's a few less things to worry about.  Nevertheless, many pet owners have similar general pet care queries. Things like tackling fleas and worms, keeping animals calm on firework night, or wondering what to look for when insuring your pet. 

We have answers to these kinds of questions in our general pet care section.

Advice for dog adopters

It can take time for your new dog to settle into a new home, especially if they've spent time in kennels, or not had the greatest start in life. We understand this can be difficult for new owners, but with a little love and patience these issues can often be overcome without further intervention.

Bella the mastiff cross portrait © RSPCA Photolibrary

Toileting in the house, whining in the night and sickness in the car can be common. Be sure to continue their training using reward based methods - also a great way to bond with your dog. 

And, as you start to form a lasting friendship with your new pet, it's important that they understand that it's ok when you leave, to help prevent your developing separation related anxiety.

Take a look around at our dog  care advice  for more information on:

And don't forget to check out your dog pre-adoption booklet (PDF 8.95MB).

Cats

Cats can find a new home overwhelming and stressful. As well as asking the centre for advice, our cat environment pages will give you guidance on making the transition as easy as possible.

We also have dedicated feline pages for health, good diets and company - all included in our 'how to take care of your cat' booklet (PDF 1.90MB) too. We also have advice on grooming your cat (PDF 668KB).

Also, why not take a look at our infographic that will help you to understand your new cat's behaviour.

Check out our online cat advice for:

  • health
  • environment
  • behaviour
  • diet
  • company

You can also download our cat pre-adoption booklet (PDF 2.30MB).

Rabbits

White rabbit with brown spots portrait image © RSPCA Photolibrary

Rabbits are intelligent animals with complex needs. We've written information to help you prepare a suitable place to live, feed them a good diet (including the myths of a good diet) and help on bonding rabbits together.

We also have more information and fact files for other animals, such as guinea pigs and hamsters that you may have adopted from us.

Seeking advice

Don't be afraid to get in touch with us if you're experiencing problems with your new pet. We're there as your on-hand help and support.

If you're concerned about your new pet's behaviour, and you're worried you might not be a suitable match, please do contact the centre you adopted from. Getting help and advice early can help to resolve any issues.