Socialisation of companion animals, particularly cats and dogs, is an important part of responsible pet ownership and the welfare of the animal across their lifetime.

The goal of socialisation is for animals to have positive experiences, not neutral or bad ones. This involves gradually introducing young animals to experiences they are likely to experience in their life, such as handling by people, grooming and veterinary environment, exposure to novel experiences, a diverse range of people and animals, vehicles and household appliances. Sound recordings or online videos can be used to gradually introduce animals to loud or startling noises, such as fireworks. Treats can be used to build positive associations, but behaviour should be monitored to ensure they do not become overwhelmed.

The most important time to socialise animals is during the sensitive socialisation period (during the first three months for dogs and first 2 months for cats). The first course of core vaccines is not complete until after this period. To protect your puppy or kitten from disease, it is important to socialise them with safe, appropriate vaccinated animals and avoid surfaces which unvaccinated animals may have come into contact with.

SPCA supports socialisation classes, such as puppy classes and kitten kindergarten, which offer opportunities for positive experiences in a safe, controlled, supervised environment.

Puppy classes can provide puppies with opportunities to positively engage with other vaccinated puppies in a controlled, supervised environment. At kitten kindergarten, kittens may build positive experiences with handling and routine care, cat carriers, learn appropriate play with other cats, or even practice getting a veterinary exam.