From their purr to their fuzzy fur, there’s something so soothing about cats. So why do so many folks stick to only having one cat and no more?
Yes, sometimes, some cats might be a handful – especially if their young or you’ve taken them directly from the streets. Yet, there are so many reasons why two cats can be even better than one.
Of course, like with anyone considering getting a pet, you do need to give it a lot of thought before you take in another cat. Don’t rush into it! This is another life you’re welcoming into your home, remember. However, if you are ready and in the position to adopt another cat, we can tell you that there are lots of benefits to doing so. Just in case you need a few good excuses for adding another feline to your home, let’s take a look at why you need another cat.
1. Company For Your Existing Cat
Have you ever wondered if perhaps your cat gets lonely all on his own? While cats are renown for being solitary creatures, they do, in fact, enjoy companionship. Regardless of what most people believe, cats are social animals who thrive in bonded pairs. So why not get your cat a furry buddy from the rescue shelter? Together, they will probably be lifelong best friends.
2. Less Overall Destruction
It’s no secret at all that cats can be the masters of destruction at times. By taking in another cat, the two will keep each other company and stay out of trouble.
They won’t have to jump and climb so much because of the face that they’ll have their buddy to play with instead. They’ll distract each other, providing twice the amount of entertainment, and sometimes you may even find them grooming each other.
3. It Will Make Your Cat More Content and Healthier
Provided that they are a well-matched pair and have plenty of space to live together, two cats provide each other with their necessary needs: social interaction, exercise, and even mental stimulation.
Many cats are often left completely alone for hours at a time, with nothing to do. By adopting another cat, there’ll be no excuse for your cat to be bored. Together, by playing and cuddling, they’ll more than likely amuse each other and chase away each other’s boredom.
4. It Gives Your Existing Cat a Chance to Be a Guardian
Did you get your female cat spayed when you first got her? That’s wonderful! We’re proud of you but now she has a chance to take on a motherly role by adopting a kitten from the shelter. Adult female cats certainly do make great mothers and they can use their maternal side on a kitten – even if it’s not their own.
However, you need to be absolutely sure your cat is ready and in the right position to deal with a kitten. If she is getting old or has some health problems, it wouldn’t be fair to pair her with an energetic kitten. Always bear that in mind before adopting a kitten.
5. Kittens Teach Each Other Life Lessons and Save You a Lot of Hard Work
Kittens, as you are probably already aware, are energetic little creatures and they can be a lot of hard work. If you bring a second kitten into the household, you’ll have a lot less work on your hands, because together, they’ll teach each other important life lessons. By playing with each other, which kittens do best, they’ll learn social and hunting skills, and it will also help develop their coordination – essential for all cats.
6. You’re Saving Not Only One Life, But Two Lives!
Take in another cat from the shelter and you’ll surely have saved not one, but two lives. In other words, you’ll be a total hero all over again. We’re all for adopting pets from shelters and against buying them from pet stores and breeders. There are sadly so many cats living in shelters who are in need of forever homes. You have a brand new opportunity to save a life and give a lonely animal a lot of happiness!
Three Things You Should Know Before Taking in Another Cat:
1. Choose a Good Match
Adopt a cat who is a similar age that has similar activity levels to your cat at home. It usually works best this way. No matter how smitten you are with that kitten you’ve seen at the shelter, remember this: if your cat is old, bringing home a young and energetic furry fireball is only going to cause problems.
2. Make Sure You Have Enough Space
Cats, as a rule of the paw, do not like to share litter boxes. Before you take a new cat, be sure you have enough space for them to live together comfortably and enough space to be able to accommodate two separate litter boxes. Otherwise, things might get a little messy!
3. Make Sure That Your Cat Likes Other Cats
As humorous as it may sound, some cats genuinely do not get along with other cats. That’s why it’s so important that you know your cat and his relationship with other felines. Many adult cats who have spent their lives alone are unable to adjust to living with other cats, so don’t stress him or her out by bringing home a feline if you’re sure he’s not keen.
So – now that you know the many upsides to adopting a second feline, be sure to think over the responsibilities that come with two cats before taking the plunge.
If you live in an apartment or are renting a space, be sure to check if multiple animals are permitted – some buildings are okay with one cat, but two may be prohibited. Double the whiskers, of course, mean double the cost of cat food and litter – and way more fur on your clothing and furniture. It’s also imperative to keep both cats up to date on their shots if one picks up something they are likely to pass it one to the other – it might be good to consider a pet insurance policy for added medical costs.
If you’re really ready to welcome in another cat, getting through these obstacles will be a breeze.
Remember, you’re not only getting a new cat for you – but a brand new companion for your beloved feline, it might be a good idea to introduce the two before committing to adoption.
Welcoming a new cat into the family truly can be a wonderful experience – we truly hope you and your feline companion enjoy it!
Lead image source: amandanuneztejera/Pixabay │ h/t: www.onegreenplanet.org
