When it comes to owning a single cat, one of the most common questions is whether or not that cat needs a feline companion. There are many factors to consider when deciding if a solo cat would benefit from having another cat around. In this article, we’ll explore the potential pros and cons of getting a second cat for a single cat household.
Quick answers to common questions
Here are some quick answers to frequent questions about single cats and whether they need another cat:
- Do all single cats need a friend? Not necessarily. Some cats are perfectly content being the only cat in a home.
- Should kittens have a playmate? Yes, kittens generally do better with a playmate to help socialize them and burn off energy.
- Can an older cat adapt to a new cat? Sometimes. Gradual introductions can help, but some older cats prefer to be only cats.
- Will a new cat help with behavioral issues? Maybe. A playmate provides distraction and interaction, which may curb problematic behaviors.
- Is a second cat twice the work? Not quite. Many care tasks will overlap for two cats compared to one.
While these quick answers provide a general overview, the true answer depends on the individual cat. The sections below explore the potential pros and cons of getting a second cat in more detail.
Potential benefits of getting a second cat
Here are some of the possible advantages of adding a second cat to keep a single cat company:
- Companionship – For many cats, having a feline companion provides social interaction, playtime, grooming, and opportunities to bond. This cat companionship can lead to less stress and more stimulation.
- Play – Solo cats, especially energetic kittens and young cats, often benefit from having a playmate. Two cats can chase, wrestle, and play together, burning off energy and keeping each other entertained.
- Learning social skills – Kittens need interaction with other cats to develop appropriate social talents. Another cat provides a playmate to learn skills like bite inhibition.
- Security – Some cats feel more secure and confident with another cat around. The presence of another cat buffers stress and provides companionship.
- Reduced problematic behaviors – Sometimes problem behaviors like aggression or inappropriate elimination arise from loneliness, boredom, or excess energy. A second cat can provide an outlet and distraction.
- Supervision – While away, two cats can provide each other company and social interaction. Solo cats may experience elevated stress when left alone frequently.
For many cats, the social enrichment, play value, security, and distraction of a second cat improves overall welfare and quality of life. But a second cat isn’t necessarily right for every solo cat.
Potential drawbacks of getting a second cat
Here are some of the potential disadvantages of adding another cat to a single cat household:
- Introduction challenges – Not all cats get along well. Gradual introduction techniques are needed, but poor matches can result in long-term conflict.
- Increased cost – Expenses like food, litter, and veterinary care may nearly double with the addition of a second cat.
- Competition – Some cats become distressed or territorial about sharing resources like food bowls, beds, owner attention, or favored spots.
- Health risks – Close contact raises the potential for contagious illnesses and parasites to pass between cats.
- Litter box problems – With multiple cats, litter box cleanliness is crucial. Some cats may start eliminating outside the box in response.
- No guarantees – Even cat-friendly cats may never become true companions. The existing cat may merely tolerate rather than bond with the new addition.
While less common, adding a new cat can disrupt the existing cat’s territory and routine. The compatibility of the cats’ personalities will determine if the adjustment goes smoothly.
Signs a single cat may want or need a feline friend
How do you know if your solo cat is genuinely lonely and desires feline companionship? Here are some clues:
- Your cat frequently vocalizes or seems to call out for attention
- Your cat often looks out windows or waits intently by the door
- Your cat frequently brings you toys or initiates play at inappropriate times
- Your cat follows you from room to room or demands constant petting and attention
- Your cat exhibits stress behaviors like over-grooming, urinary issues, or aggression
- A kitten or high energy young cat is unable to burn off energy alone
- Your work/travel schedule leaves your cat alone frequently
Cats naturally seek social contact and play. If your solo cat exhibits signs of chronically unmet social or entertainment needs, a feline companion may provide an outlet and comfort.
Tips for successfully introducing a new cat
If you decide a second cat may benefit your solo cat, here are some tips to help introduce them properly:
- Set up separate living spaces initially so the cats can become comfortable with each other’s presence and scents before meeting face to face
- Make introductions gradual, starting with limited supervised sessions
- Provide duplicate resources like food, water, beds, litter boxes, scratching posts, and toys to minimize competition
- Give the existing cat extra love and attention during the transition period
- Use calming supplements or pheromone diffusers to ease stress for both cats
- Be patient – the adjustment period may take weeks or months for some cats to accept a new housemate
With proper introductions and adjustments, most cats can learn to accept and eventually bond with a new feline companion.
Are two cats better than one? Key takeaways
While bringing home a new cat is not a decision to take lightly, many single cat households find the pros of a second cat outweigh the cons. Here are some key summary points:
- A second cat provides companionship, social interaction, play, and security – benefits especially helpful for energetic kittens and cats left home alone often
- Proper slow introductions and providing duplicate key resources can minimize potential drawbacks like competition or litter box issues
- Signs like frequent vocalizing, attention-seeking, or stress behaviors indicate a solo cat may want feline company
- While two cats are more work than one, many care tasks overlap so duties don’t fully double
- The right second cat enhances the life experience and welfare of a single cat, but expectations need to remain realistic about the adjustment
Consider your individual cat’s personality and needs when deciding if a feline companion would be in their best interest. While some solo cats thrive, others experience improved wellbeing and contentment with a new cat friend by their side if matchmaking and introductions are handled patiently and properly to set the cats up for long-term success.
FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about whether single cats need or want a second cat:
Should I get a second cat for my 1 year old cat?
One year old cats are very energetic and often benefit from a playmate. Getting a second young cat around the same age is ideal so they can burn off energy together. Proper introductions are still required.
Can a 12 year old cat learn to share the home with a new kitten?
It’s possible, but challenging. Kittens pester adult cats, so a gradual introduction is crucial. Be prepared to keep the cats separate if the older cat becomes stressed. A slightly older and calmer juvenile cat may be better than a highly energetic kitten.
Will a second cat help my overly vocal cat?
Potentially. Some vocal cats want attention or social interaction. A new pal may provide an outlet and reduce vocal demands for your attention. But vocal signaling could get worse if the cats don’t get along well.
Should I get two kittens instead of one kitten?
Yes, two kittens are ideal as they provide built-in company and socialization for each other. Litter mates often form lifelong social bonds. Solo kittens may become over-attached to owners and develop behavioral issues later on.
Can an 8 year old cat learn to accept a kitten with time?
Cats can adapt at any age, but very gradual introductions spanning weeks to months are crucial for an older cat. Be ready to house the kitten separately if the older cat remains distressed. Trying an adult cat may go more smoothly than a rambunctious kitten.
| Age of Existing Cat | Ideal Age of Second Cat |
|---|---|
| Over 5 years | 2 years or older |
| 2-5 years | 2 years or younger |
| 1-2 years | Within 1 year of age |
| Under 1 year (kitten) | Another kitten close in age |
Conclusion
While some cats thrive as solo pets, many cats benefit from having a feline companion. The right second cat provides social enrichment, play, comfort, and activity. But cats are individuals, so assess your own cat’s personality and needs when deciding if adding another cat may potentially enhance their quality of life and improve behavior issues. With proper introductions and patience during the transition, most solo cats will eventually accept – and even come to enjoy – the companionship of another cat.