Although cats have a reputation for being loners, they are sociable creatures that thrive on building intimate ties with other animals. Today, our Corpus Christi vets discuss getting another cat if you already have one, and how to introduce them to each other.
How Do I Know If My Cat Wants A Feline Friend?
Behavior changes like erratic sleeping or eating patterns may indicate that a cat feels lonely. If you're thinking of getting a second cat and your vet approves, here are some signs that your cat could benefit from feline companionship.
Clinginess
If your cat meows a lot, trails you everywhere, and won't leave you alone, they might need more social interaction. If they are very demanding, this conduct could signal separation anxieties.
Excessive Grooming
Over-grooming, which may be a way of self-soothing, could also be a sign that your cat would benefit from a companion. If your cat exhibits peculiar grooming habits, don't assume they're lonely; it could potentially signify a medical ailment. If you find your cat looking unkempt and not grooming as much or as well, it could be an indication that they are lonely or sad, but you should consult a vet first.
Changes In Sleep Habits
If your cat has started sleeping a lot more and not interacting with you, loneliness might be to blame. Melancholy behavior can also indicate that your pet is feeling ill, so it is critical to screen out any medical difficulties first.
Litter Box Issues
Unusual litter box behaviors can indicate stress or loneliness. If your cat has started using areas other than their litter boxes, you should notify your veterinarian immediately. Cats are creatures of habit, and when they change their routine, it's like a blinking neon sign to humans.
Odd Eating Habits
Is your cat eating more than usual? It could indicate boredom or a lack of social stimulation. Like people, cats may turn to food when there is nothing else to do. Alternatively, the cat may stop eating because they feel depressed. A change in eating patterns, on the other hand, may suggest a medical problem, so discuss it with your veterinarian first.
Getting a Cat When You Already Have One
If you've consulted your veterinarian and have determined that there are no medical issues, it could be that your cat is just lonely and needs a friend.
It can be difficult to know if a cat is ready to live with another cat, but carefully introducing will help them get off on the right foot. Here are some steps you can follow and questions to ask yourself:
- Does your cat get along with other cats in the neighborhood? If your cat dislikes other cats entering their territory and becomes agitated or angry when this occurs, it could be a hint that they would not accept sharing their home with another cat. Bengals, for example, are ideally suited to being solo cats.
- Cats who are related may 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 to give each cat their own space where they can get away from other cats if they want to?
What If My Cat's Companion Has Died?
If a feline pair is split up when one of them dies, it is normal for owners to want another cat to keep their remaining cat company and prevent loneliness. We recommend giving your surviving cat some time to adjust to life without their mate before obtaining a new cat or kitten. Cats have particular social needs, so even if they have lived contentedly beside another cat for many years, they may not feel the need for another partner.
How Do I Know My Cats Like Each Other?
Cats that get along will frequently show clear indicators that they regard themselves to be members of the same social group. Grooming each other, sleeping, or lying next to each other are examples of these indicators. They may regularly greet each other by touching noses or emit a small meow or chirp as they pass.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.