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.
Male (neutered) cats are generally believed to be more accepting of other cats, both male and female. Even though this has not been my experience, female cats may not get along as well with each other.
Male Cats Are More Social and Playful
They commonly form strong bonds with other cats in the home, even when they are not from the same litter. Females, on the other hand, are often more standoffish. If you are looking for a cuddle bug, adopting a male may be your best bet.
Generally, with a careful and patient introduction, two male cats can get along very well in the same house. And, even if the two don't become closely bonded, even having the presence of another cat in the house can provide security and reassurance for both cats.
Furthermore, neutered cats are much more likely to get along with each other because there are no circulating sexual hormones. In males, such hormones can cause competition between cats and increase territory defence.
The introduction must be gradual. Following the initial introduction, it can take a very long time for a relationship to grow. It takes most cats eight to 12 months to develop a friendship with a new cat.
Cats, whether neutered or intact, can get into fights but most intercat aggression is seen between intact males. This is a direct result of competition between male cats, and because intact male cats roam and protect a much larger territory.
Whether or not a cat will cuddle with other cats appears to depend entirely on the personality of the cats involved and not the sex of the cat. Some cats are cuddlers, some aren't.
Cats are family-oriented and usually live with their relatives. Cats will sleep together, share common feeding areas, and groom one another within family groups. For this reason, cats often do well adopted in pairs.
The ideal number of litter boxes for a multi-cat household is one for each cat and an extra box more for security, however, if you cannot afford this or if your cats are trained to use one litter box, it is okay to use the regular one, but it is still best recommended to use the self-cleaning or automatic litter box as ...
Two Can Be Better Than one
Cats can get territorial if they don't have enough individual space, so if your home or apartment is small or cluttered, two might not be the best choice. To avoid potential conflict between pets, try to adopt young cats at the same time.
For cats that are left on their own for long periods each day, it is a good idea to consider providing another cat for company. Sociable interaction with another cat can greatly enrich their daily lives. The younger they are when introduced, the greater the chances of their getting on amicably most of the time.
Jealousy over the presence of another cat is very common. All cats have different personalities, and some will be made insecure and display jealousy more easily than others. It is important to watch your cat and observe their cues and triggers.
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.
Follow this simple rule: one box per cat, plus one extra. So if you have two cats, you should have three boxes. Making sure everyone has their space can help ease elimination issues. Some owners prefer a hooded box, but some cats don't like them.
Brothers from the same litter can live together, if they have to.
If you're adopting, ask to see which ones are playing with each other, a bonded pair. Gender can also matter. Sometimes a male and a female will get on better. Generally, the opposite sex won't be seen as a threat, but obviously all cats compete for territory.
Don't worry too much about the gender of the cats involved. Age and temperament are the most important factors. Adult cats will usually accept a new kitten much more easily than they will accept a new adult cat. Cats are territorial, and your cat may resent an adult feline intruder.
Intact males are particularly prone to aggressive behavior. Separate their resources. Reduce competition between the cats by providing multiple, identical food bowls, beds and litter boxes in different areas of your house. Provide additional perches.
Regardless of their reputation, cats do get lonely when they are left unattended for long periods of time. Research proves that cats are social beings that form strong bonds with their owners. Do cats get sad when you leave? Short answer: yes.
Another positive aspect of neutering your cat is that neutering can result in a calmer, and sometimes cleaner, home. Without the drive to mate, your cat may be quieter and not prone to cat calls and an incessant need to seek out a mate. The neutered cat no longer feels the need to seek out and serenade females.
By having both cats experience something positive (a meal or yummy snack) while they are nearby, they can learn to form positive associations with each other. If either cat is growling or hissing at the other through the door, donot put them together anytime soon; take things very slowly and continue feeding this way.