Cats make wonderful pets and companions and the joy and love they can bring to a household is beyond measure. But there is one vital question that must be answered when you first consider sharing your home:-
'Should I get one cat or two?'
Certainly there are advantages to owning a solitary pet. Your new kitten will be the center 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.
Additionally, the cost of owning a solitary cat will be relatively low. It will be much easier to budget for your pet's food, bedding and veterinary costs than if you owned two animals and the opportunity for conflict between feline house-mates 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?
Briefly, the benefits of owning two cats are:
- Companionship for each other – particularly if you are out at work all day.
- 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.
- Twice the pleasure for you!
Of course, there are also a few disadvantages to owning more than one cat. These include:
- Greater costs relating to food, medical bills, boarding fees.
- Although cats are sociable animals, not every cat lives comfortably with a companion. Some prefer a solitary life.
- Behavioral problems are more likely in a multi-cat household.
- Cats with feline companions may be happier sharing their own company than sharing yours.
Once you have considered the pros and cons of single or double cat ownership and made your choice, make sure that you look at a number of cats or kittens needing a home. By doing this – and not just falling in love with the first fluffy animal you see – you will begin to develop a good idea of the different character types available.
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.
And whether you choose to give a home to one or two cats, be sure to enjoy your new family members!
