Are Two Cats Better Than One?

Cats make wonderful pets and companions and the joy and love they can bring to a household is beyond measure. But when you are first considering sharing your home with a new cat you may ask yourself - Are two cats better than one?

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. 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.

Kittens Cats

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?

Are Two Cats Better Than One?

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.
• 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:

• Increased costs in the form of 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.
• Your pets may be more content to spend time with each other than with you.

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.

Armed with this knowledge, you will be better equipped to select a single cat whose personality will suit your family or two cats that are likely to live in harmony together.

Whatever you choice - enjoy the love and affection of your new family members!

Are Two Cats Better Than One?