Cats often prefer to live alone, so think very carefully before getting another one. Most cats will be friendly with cats they grew up with, but they may not accept having to share your home with a new cat. If you do want to get another cat, you'll need to introduce them patiently and carefully.
Although cats have a reputation as solitary animals, they are social creatures and can thrive on forming close bonds with other creatures. Certain changes in behavior, such as irregular sleeping, eating, or grooming habits, may indicate that a cat is lonely and could benefit from some feline companionship.
If you are just looking to get one cat, your future feline pet will not be severely deprived if you do not get another with it. A cat can live a happy life as the only cat in the house. At the same time, cats are more social than we may have at one time believed.
Because of the attachments they form, the answer is yes; cats can feel lonely! While each kitty has a unique personality and needs, the following signs could indicate a lonely cat: Destructive behavior. Loss or increase in appetite.
Pairs are Happier
Despite their independent natures, cats are social creatures that need companionship to thrive. Left alone, a cat can develop behavioral problems, and in some cases, even show signs of depression. Cats in bonded pairs, on the other hand, are more likely to be better adjusted.
Although some households might prefer to maintain only one litter box, it's never recommended to force two cats to share the same litter box as it can cause stress, increase aggression, and result in out-of-box urination.
Yes, your cat can get depressed. Some possible situations that lead to depressive signs in cats include: Loss of a family member.
Single kitten syndrome is the idea that young kittens, when raised with other young kittens and cats and then adopted into a home by themselves, can become aggressive, anxious, stressed, and even develop behavioral issues like inappropriate chewing/scratching and inappropriately using the litterbox.
When a cat loses a companion, whether animal or human, she most certainly grieves and reacts to the changes in her life. Cats alter their behavior when they mourn much like people do: They may become depressed and listless.
In unowned, free-ranging cats, groups of cats tend to comprise related females and their offspring. However, to date, the evidence is inconclusive as to whether the gender of the cat has an influence over its ability to get along with other cats when the cats are neutered.
Does she puff up and hiss? Her reaction to your new cat will probably be along those same lines. If she is calm, you have the highest likelihood of being able to introduce her to another cat without a lot of drama. If she puffs up, hisses and howls, you might be in some real trouble.
Having another cat around can lessen the boredom and loneliness that a solitary cat might experience when you're not there. Sure, cats usually sleep most of the day away, but that doesn't mean they enjoy being alone when they're awake.
However, your cat can absolutely form a strong emotional bond with another cat, and they can even become BFFs — which you probably already know if you have two cats who spend all their time together. Bonded cats sleep and play together and groom each other.
Yes, there are many benefits to keeping your cat safe at home (contained within your property boundaries). Contained cats are less likely to become lost or injured (e.g., hit by a car or attacked by a dog).
Yes, cats can get lonely. For all their solitary behaviour, cats are social creatures that need stimuli and interaction as much as humans do. Companionship, whether with humans or other cats, is an important part of any healthy feline's life. Leaving your cat at home while you go to work should not prove problematic.
However, Cats Can Share Water Bowls
There also is usually a lot more water, enough for everyone. Although, cats can drink from the same water bowls throughout the day, have at least 2 bowls of fresh water out in a multi-cat household. Place water bowls in different rooms and on different floors in your home.
It's suggested that you choose two male cats or a male and female combination if bringing home two kittens who are not already bonded as they tend to get along better than two females. Cats generally don't like eating close together, so consider placing your kittens' food bowls across the room from each other.
If you have two sibling kittens, feeding them from the same bowl may not be an issue. However, you will have to ensure that both kittens get enough food. It is also advisable to look out for any signs of stress. Both cats may tolerate sharing a food bowl, but stressors may show in other areas of their lives.
* It can be time-consuming to take care of multiple cats. Clipping nails, brushing their coats and litter box maintenance may begin to take their toll. On the upside, don't get discouraged. It takes time to develop a routine that all of you can be happy with.
Bonded pairs always have a playmate around and keep each other busy. When boredom decreases, so does destructive behavior. People who are gone for long periods of time often adopt bonded pairs. There is less separation anxiety when the owner is away because the cats are not really alone.