One cat or two?
Type your pet's name on the map and every guide uses it.
It depends on the cats and on your family. Many people, shelters among them, say two kittens make the most sense, because kittens play with and learn from each other. One kitten does well too, with daily play and a safe place to rest. Many adult cats prefer to be the only cat. Shelters place bonded pairs together because the two are attached. It's your family's decision; here is what each choice means.
Cats are not pack animals. Living under one roof doesn't make two cats friends.
What to do
- Kittens.Two kittens play with each other and burn off energy together, which is why many people suggest a pair. One kitten does well too, with daily wand-toy play, puzzle feeders and a safe place to rest. If you choose two, a sibling pair is often preferable to two unrelated kittens. Where a kitten is joining an older cat, think about play: a single kitten may look to the older cat for it, which is one reason some families choose two.
- A grown-up cat.Many adult cats are content as the only cat, and some never accept another adult cat. A cat that seems lonely may just want more play and attention from you.
- Already have a cat?Tension between cats happens most often when a new cat arrives. If you add one, go slowly, by smell first. How to introduce them
- A bonded pair.Shelters place bonded pairs together because the cats are attached, so the two of them don't need introducing to each other. If you already have a pet, they still do. Even a bonded pair can have conflict.
- If you choose two: the budget.Two cats means twice the food, litter and vet bills, and their own things: one litter box per cat plus one extra, and their own food, water, beds, hiding places and high perches.
- Plan for change.Even siblings can grow apart as they reach social maturity, between about 18 months and four years. Enough space and enough of everything lets each cat choose.
Your job
Help write who does which job, and stick the list on the fridge.
Free to print: Ready for a pet?
Did you know?Cats can live together, but they aren't pack animals. Each cat needs its own bowl, bed and hiding place.
If two cats fight, or one hides, stops eating or stops using the box, call your vet first, then a cat behavior consultant. Asking early is what good owners do.
Two things we never repeat
Boy or girl?
Shelter staff often say the boys are the outgoing ones and the girls more reserved, and owner surveys find a small lean that way, but any one cat can be the opposite. Most of the famous differences, like spraying and roaming, belong to unneutered cats, so neutering matters more than sex. Meet a few, and let the cat choose you. More in Mixed Company.
Sources: Best Friends Animal Society · Mikkola and others, 2021 · VCA
Sources: Best Friends Animal Society · International Cat Care (2, 3) · Cats Protection (2) · RSPCA Australia (2) · VCA Animal Hospitals (2) · AAFP (2). Full list