The Pros of Having 2 Cats
One of the biggest pros of having two cats is that they are less likely to be lonely or bored. Cats are social creatures that often thrive when they have a feline companion to interact with. As solitary hunters, cats don’t always show overt signs of loneliness when they are housed alone. But studies have shown that cats housed with another feline play more, vocalize more, and show less stress than solitary cats (1). Having a feline friend provides built-in socialization, playtime, and companionship for your cats.
Another advantage to getting two cats is that they can keep each other company when you are away at work or on vacation. Single cats left home alone can become anxious or get into trouble out of boredom and excess energy. But two cats will play, groom, and settle in comfortably together while you are out, providing reassurance and entertainment for each other (2). This also reduces the guilty feelings of leaving your cat by itself for long stretches.
Additionally, it may be easier to introduce two kittens to your home at the same time, rather than adding a second cat later. Kittens adapt more readily to change and are more open to new friends than adult cats tend to be. By getting two kittens initially, you can avoid difficult introductions down the road if you decide to add a second cat later (3).
Sources:
(1) https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-companionship
(2) https://www.petfinder.com/cats-and-kittens/adoption/new-cat/adopt-second-cat/
(3) https://www.worldsbestcatlitter.com/2022/06/4-benefits-of-adopting-two-cats/
Potential Cons of 2 Cats
Getting a second cat can definitely come with some potential downsides to consider. One of the biggest is that two cats means twice the cost for things like food, litter, veterinary bills, toys, scratching posts, etc. The expenses add up quickly, so make sure your budget can accommodate caring for two furry friends before making the commitment.
There’s also the possibility of more damage or mess with a second cat in the home. Cats can be mischievous, and two may get into double the trouble through scratching furniture, unraveling toilet paper, knocking things off shelves, etc. Be prepared to cat-proof your home. You’ll also likely go through litter faster with two cats using the litter box.
Additionally, two cats may require more space than a single cat. Make sure you have enough room for multiple litter boxes, scratching posts, cat trees, feeding stations, and toys so each cat has their own space. Cats are territorial, so providing adequate territory for each one will avoid conflicts. Small apartments may not have enough room for two felines.
Personality Considerations
When deciding whether two cats may get along well, considering their personalities is key. Some cats are more sociable and friendly by nature, while others prefer being on their own. According to Feline Friends or Foes? How to Know if Your Cats Are Getting Along, getting along well is more likely if your cats headbutt each other, groom each other, sleep near each other, play together gently, eat calmly together, and overall seem relaxed in each other’s presence.
Ideally, adopting littermates or cats that already know each other can increase the odds they will get along. But personalities still vary, so observe closely. While some cats thrive with a feline companion, others become stressed and unhappy. Know your cats’ individual preferences. If you already have one cat who values their space, adding a new kitten who craves companionship may overwhelm them. Take care not to force relationships. Cats that fight frequently or seem constantly stressed are not a good match.
Introducing a New Cat
When bringing a new cat into a home with an existing cat, it’s important to take introductions slowly. As experts from the Humane Society explain, “Cats are territorial, and need to be introduced to each other gradually so that neither sees the other as a threat.” (https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-introduce-your-new-cat-resident-cats)
At first, it’s best to keep the cats separated in different parts of the home, with the new cat staying in a safe room. Feed the cats on opposite sides of a door so they can smell each other. Next, allow the cats to see each other through a baby gate, eventually removing the barrier while supervising their interactions. Switch sleeping blankets or toys between the cats so they get used to each other’s scent. With patience and proper introductions over the course of days or weeks, the cats can learn to accept one another.
Providing the Necessities
When bringing a second cat into the home, it’s important that each cat has their own basic necessities like food bowls, water bowls, litter boxes, toys, and scratching posts. This helps reduce conflict and resentment between the cats as they are not forced to share resources. As this source recommends, each cat should have:
- Their own food bowl – Cats like to eat alone and can become territorial over food. Provide multiple food bowls spread out around the home.
- Their own water bowl – Separate water sources help ensure each cat stays properly hydrated.
- Their own litter box – The general rule is one litter box per cat, plus an extra. Cats are very particular about litter boxes and like their own private space to do their business.
- Their own toys and scratching posts – Give each cat interactive toys to play with alone and shared toys they can enjoy together. Have multiple scratching posts so they don’t have to compete.
It might seem excessive to double up on supplies, but it’s an important step in helping cats coexist peacefully. Investing in adequate resources right away prevents territorial disputes down the line. According to this checklist, the key supplies for a multi-cat household include carriers, litter boxes, food bowls, beds, scratching posts, interactive toys, a calming diffuser, grooming tools, and more.
Managing a Multi-Cat Home
When bringing a second cat into your home, it’s important to make adjustments to help your current cat adapt and keep the peace between both felines. Here are some tips for managing a harmonious multi-cat household:
Cats may need separate feeding spaces to avoid competition over food. Set up two feeding stations in different areas and stick to scheduled mealtimes. Research shows feeding cats separately can reduce stress and aggression.
More frequent litter cleaning may be required with two cats using the same box. Scoop waste at least once or twice daily and completely replace the litter regularly. Providing an extra litter box can also help.
Ensure access to multiple elevated perches/cat trees, so each cat has their own space to relax and observe their surroundings. Vertical territory is important to cats, so providing climbing areas helps them avoid conflicts.
Benefits for Owners
Watching cats play and interact can be entertaining. Cats often wrestle, chase each other, and playfully pounce on one another. According to https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/considerations-when-getting-a-second-cat, observing this kitty playtime provides owners with amusement and joy. Two cats can turn an ordinary day into an exciting spectacle as they dart around batting toys back and forth.
Having two cats also provides companionship, especially for owners who live alone. As social creatures, cats thrive when they have a feline playmate. An owner may not always be available to play with a single cat. But another cat provides constant companionship and entertainment. Cats groom each other, cuddle up to sleep together, and keep each other company even when their owner is away. According to https://www.hartz.com/bonded-pairs-might-want-adopt-two-cats-instead-one, a pair of cats can provide comfort, reduce stress and loneliness for their owners.
Potential Challenges
Owning two cats can present some unique challenges that require attention and effort from owners. One key area to be aware of is potential conflict between the cats. As territorial creatures, some cats may fight or argue over resources, space, or attention, especially in the beginning as they establish boundaries with each other. It’s important to properly introduce a new cat and provide plenty of food bowls, beds, litter boxes, and play spaces to avoid tension. If issues come up, be prepared to mediate disagreements and ensure harmony in a multi-cat home.
Additionally, two cats can wreak twice the destruction if bored or left without adequate stimulation and activity. Make sure to provide plenty of toys, scratching posts, cat trees, playtime, and even consider cat-proofing the home. Watch for signs of stress in either cat and address the root cause, whether it’s lack of personal space, changes in routine, or too much competition for resources.
Is Two Cats Right for You?
Before getting a second cat, consider your lifestyle, living space, and budget to ensure you can provide adequate care for two felines.
Think about your daily schedule – do you have enough time to care for, play with, and give attention to two cats? Cats are less maintenance than dogs, but still require daily interaction, grooming, litter box cleaning, etc. Evaluate if you can commit to a twice daily routine for two cats.
Also consider if you have enough physical space in your home for two cats. Cats are territorial and need their own spaces and resources like food bowls, beds, scratching posts. Make sure your home can accommodate separate territories to reduce conflict.
And examine your budget – are you prepared for double the costs of food, litter, vet bills, toys/supplies? Proper preventative veterinary care like vaccines, dental cleanings, and check-ups are essential for cats.
If adopting a second cat, go slowly with introductions. Set up separate spaces at first, allow the cats to get used to each other’s scents before face-to-face meetings, and expect an adjustment period as they establish a new social hierarchy.
With some preparation and patience, two cats can enrich each other’s lives and yours as well. But be realistic about the commitment two felines require before making the leap from one cat to two.
Making It Work
When introducing a new cat to your household, it’s important to have patience and take proper steps to ensure a smooth transition. Here are some tips for making a multi-cat home work:
First, introduce cats slowly. Keep them separated at first, allowing them to become accustomed to each other’s scents before meeting face-to-face. Exchange blankets or toys between the cats so they get used to each other’s smells. Over multiple days or weeks, have brief, supervised meetings until the cats are comfortable together.
You’ll also need to provide adequate resources for multiple cats. Have at least one litter box per cat, scattered food bowls, and multiple water stations. Ensure you have sufficient cat trees, scratching posts, toys, and sleeping/perching spots for each cat.
Additionally, give each cat their own dedicated spaces. Set up separate sleeping areas like crates or beds so the cats have a place to retreat when needed. Cats often appreciate having vertical territory as well, so cat trees/shelves at different heights create a multi-level home.
With patience and proper introductions, plus adequate resources and spaces, you can create a loving multi-cat home where both felines feel secure.