How to Tell If Your Cat Wants Another Cat
Has your cat's behavior changed recently? If so, they may be feeling lonely. For example, loneliness can cause erratic sleeping and eating problems.
If this is the case for your kitty, you might be asking yourself, "Does my indoor cat need a friend?" and wondering if you should get a second cat. In this article, you'll find seven signs that your cat would benefit from having a feline companion.
A Change in Sleeping Habits
Loneliness may be the culprit for in sleeping habits. If your cat sleeps a lot and is interacting with you far less than usual, this may be because she's feeling lonely and has become melancholy. However, similar to other significant shifts in habits, it's important to book a checkup for your cat with our vets in Mandeville so any other medical issues can be ruled out before you look for a new cat to help correct this issue.
Clinginess
Has your cat been meowing more than normal and following you around? Your kitty may need more social interaction if she won't leave you alone. This very demanding demeanor may a symptom of separation concerns or anxiety.
Excessive Grooming
While grooming can be self-soothing for a cat, obsessive grooming can also be a sign that your cat would do well with a companion. That said, you shouldn't automatically assume your cat is lonely if you've noticed her displaying peculiar grooming habits; this can also point to a medical condition.
If your cat is looking scraggly and not grooming herself as much, it may indicate that she's lonely or sad. We recommend consulting a vet to determine the underlying issue.
Litter Box Issues
Loneliness or stress may also cause unusual behaviors in and around the litter box. If your cat was previously trained to use the litter box but begins to pee in other areas of the house. We recommend letting your vet know right away. since cats are creatures of habit, changes in routine can be compared to an engine warning light coming on in your cat - it's a sign that you should head to the professionals to get to the bottom of the issue.
Abnormal Eating Habits
Is your cat eating more than usual? It could indicate boredom or a lack of social stimulation. The cat, like people, may turn to food when there is nothing else to do. Alternatively, the cat may stop eating because she or he is depressed. On the other hand, a change in eating patterns 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.
However, it can be tough to know if a cat is ready to live with another cat, but a cautious introduction process will help them get off on the right foot. Here are some steps you can follow and questions to ask yourself:
- How is your cat getting along with the 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 sole cats.
- Cats who are related 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?
Should I get a new cat to replace one who has passed away?
When a cat who has shared a home with another cat dies, it is normal for owners to want another cat to keep their remaining cat company. 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 by cats like each other?
Cats with a strong link will frequently show clear indicators that they regard themselves as members of the same social group. Grooming, sleeping, or lying next to each other are examples of these indicators. They may regularly greet each other by touching noses or making a little meow 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.