Posts Tagged ‘do cats need friends’
Owning a Cat - Is One Better Than Two?
Owning a Cat - Is One Better Than Two?
by Jane Tompsett
Cat ownership is a wonderful thing. A furry companion will bring a huge amount of joy and pleasure into your home.
But there is one vital question that must be answered when you first consider sharing your home:-
‘One cat or two?’
Certainly there are advantages to owning a solitary pet. Your new kitten will be the centre of attraction in the family and will happily receive the benefit of your undivided attention. The fun and games that your children will be able to enjoy on a one-to-one basis will be satisfying in the extreme.
Also, the expense of owning a single, new pet will be kept to a minimum. The cost of food, bedding, cat litter, toys and vet’s bills will be more easily absorbed into the family budget than would otherwise be the case and as there will be no need for your pet to share, the opportunity for inter-cat conflict simply won’t arise.
But what about the happiness of your new cat? Will living a solitary life be the kindest option? Wouldn’t having a companion to share life with be better for your pet’s emotional well-being?
A few of the benefits of owning two cats are:
Companionship for each other - especially if left on their own for long periods.
Cats enjoy the social aspects of being together. Feral cats naturally live in groups and are comfortable with group hierarchy.
Giving a home to litter-mates is the easiest route to take.
Double the pleasure for you!
Naturally, you must consider the other side of the coin. The possible disadvantages of owning more than one cat are:
Greater costs relating to food, medical bills, boarding fees.
Although most cats are sociable, some are not. A few will actually prefer to have you all to themselves.
Problems with behavior are more likely than with a solitary cat.
Cats with feline companions may be happier sharing their own comapny than sharing yours.
Once you have considered whether you wish to choose one or two new pets, do make sure that you see several different cats or kittens. You will find that you quickly get a good idea of which individual animals suit you best and you will be able to choose the right one - or two - for you.
Equipped with this information, you will be able to ensure that you can select cats that will live in harmony together, or will be likely to live happily on their own.
Whatever you choice - enjoy the love and affection of your new family members!
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