Even though they're often seen as loners, cats enjoy making close friendships with other animals. In this article, our friendly veterinarians from Brodheadsville will chat about why it could be a good idea to get a second cat, tips for introducing your cats to each other, and what you should do before welcoming a new kitty into your home.
How to Tell if Your Cat Wants Another Cat
Are you wondering if your cat is lonely? You can spot it by noticing changes in their behavior. For instance, loneliness might be the reason if they start eating or sleeping irregularly.
If this is the case, you may ask yourself, "Does my indoor cat need a friend?"
If you're considering getting another cat and your vet approves, we'll tell you seven signs that suggest your cat could enjoy having a feline companion.
Are there any signs that a cat wants a companion?
Cats are often thought of as solitary animals; however, they can actually be social creatures and form close bonds with other animals. If your cat is displaying changes in behavior it may benefit from having a companion. Signs such as:
A Change in Sleeping Habits
Loneliness could be a reason for changes in your cat's sleeping habits. If your cat sleeps a lot and doesn't spend time with you anymore, it may be because they feel lonely and sad. However, it's important to take your cat to our vets at Brodheadsville for an examination to ensure no medical issues before considering getting a new cat to help your cat feel better.
Excessive Grooming
While excessive cat grooming might seem like a way to comfort themselves, it could also suggest that your cat would benefit from having a buddy. If your cat has been engaging in unusual grooming behaviors, don't automatically think they're lonely, as it could be a sign of a possible health issue.
If you notice your cat looking disheveled and not grooming herself as often, it might be a sign that she feels down or needs companionship. However, it is a good idea to consult a veterinarian before jumping to conclusions.
Clinginess
Is your cat meowing a lot and following you everywhere? If your kitty keeps sticking to you, they might need more attention and playtime. This clingy behavior could indicate that your furry friend feels a bit lonely.
Litter Box Issues
Stress or loneliness might show up in strange litter box actions. If your cat knew how to use the litter box before but now pees in different spots in the house, it's a good idea to tell your vet as soon as possible. Cats usually stick to their habits, so when their routine changes, it's like a warning light in your car. It's best to consult with the experts to figure out what's going on.
Odd Eating Habits
Is your cat eating more than usual? This might mean your cat feels bored or lonely. Just like people, cats might eat more when they're not busy with other things. On the flip side, if your cat stops eating, it could be a sign of sadness. But if your cat's eating habits change a lot, it's a good idea to talk to your vet about it. They can help figure out if there's a medical issue.
Getting a Cat When You Already Have One
If you've consulted your veterinarian and determined that there are no medical issues, your cat could be lonely and need a friend.
However, it can be tough to know if a cat is ready to live with another cat, but a cautious introduction process will help them get off on the right foot. Here are some steps you can follow and questions to ask yourself:
- How is your cat getting along with the other cats in the neighborhood? If your cat dislikes other cats entering its territory and becomes agitated or angry when this occurs, it could be a hint that it would not accept sharing its home with another cat. Bengals, for example, are ideally suited to being sole cats.
- Cats who are related get along better than cats that are not related.
- Younger cats are more likely than older cats to accept new feline members of the household.
- Because of the lack of hormones, neutered cats get along considerably better than unneutered cats.
- Is your house large enough for each cat to have its own space where it can get away from other cats if it wants to?
What about if one of my cats dies?
When one cat in a home with another cat passes away, it's common for the owners to think about getting a new cat to be a friend for their remaining cat. We suggest you let your surviving cat have some time to get used to life without their buddy before bringing in a new cat or kitten.
Cats have their own social preferences, so even if they've lived happily alongside another cat for a long time, they might not necessarily want another companion.
How do I know my cats like each other?
When cats share a close bond, they tend to view themselves as part of the same social group. They groom each other, take naps together, and cuddle up side by side. They may even greet each other with a friendly touch of the nose or a soft meow.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet to accurately diagnose your pet's condition.