Cats are amazing creatures that bring joy and companionship into our lives. If you’re considering bringing a cat into your home, you may be wondering if one cat is enough or if two cats would be better.
Here are 7 reasons why having two cats can be beneficial for both you and your feline companions.
1. Bonded pairs should never be separated
Bonded pairs are cats that have formed a strong bond with each other. It’s not uncommon for cats to form close relationships, especially if they’ve grown up together or have been rescued from the same litter.
Many shelters and rescue organizations will even require bonded pairs to be adopted together because separating them can cause distress and behavioral issues for the cats.
One of the benefits of adopting a bonded pair is that it reduces the likelihood of inter-cat aggression. Studies have shown that bonded cats show more affiliative interactions (e.g., grooming each other, playing) compared to unfamiliar and unrelated cats. 1
So, if you want to ensure a smooth and harmonious relationship between your cats, getting two cats that are familiar with each other is the way to go.
2. They provide each other companionship
There’s a common misconception that cats are solitary animals and don’t need companionship. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. While cats do have independent streaks, they also crave social interaction.
Research about feral and free-living cats has revealed that - within their social group (also called colony) - they form lasting relationships with other cats. The researchers observed friendly behavior in free-living cats, like grooming and snuggling, indicating that cats do seek and enjoy the company of other cats. 2
Having two cats in your home provides each other with companionship and playmates. When you’re busy or away from home, they always have each other to keep each other company and stave off boredom.
3. Fewer Boredom Blues
Cats need stimulation and mental activity, just like any other pet. When left alone for long periods of time, they can become bored and anxious, which can lead to (self-)destructive behaviors, such as over-grooming, scratching, and compulsive tail-chasing. 3
Having two cats means they can keep each other entertained and engaged, reducing the chances of boredom-related issues. They can play together, chase each other, or even just nap close by - all of these activities help to keep them happy.
However, having two cats does not mean you don’t have to play, interact and spend time with them. Human-cat interactions are important for creating a strong relationship with your furry friends and for providing them with proper care and attention. 4
4. They learn from each other
Having two cats can simplify the training process as they engage in social learning from each other. Kittens learn vital skills, such as hunting, play behavior, and social interactions with other cats, from their littermates. 5
When you have two cats, they engage in observational learning by watching and imitating each other. For example, if one cat quickly adapts to using a litter box or scratching post, the other may follow suit. This kind of shared experience can simplify the training process for both basic behaviors and more complex tasks.
5. Better Social Skills
Cats are naturally social animals, and having a companion means they engage in continuous social interactions, refining their ability to communicate and understand cat-specific cues.
The constant companionship of another cat provides a rich environment for social development. Cats learn to navigate complex social hierarchies, communicate through body language and vocalizations, and establish bonds with each other.
This continuous interaction helps them develop a nuanced understanding of feline social dynamics, ultimately enhancing their ability to engage positively with other cats and even humans.
6. Twice the Purrsonality, Twice the Love!
Having two cats means you’re in for a daily dose of extra affection and heartwarming moments. Imagine waking up to not one but two furry friends eager to greet you with purrs and headbutts.
It’s like having a furry team of happiness at your service. They might play together, chase each other’s tails, or just nap side by side, all of which make for adorable moments that will surely brighten up your day.
7. You’re Saving Lives
Shelters and rescue organizations often face challenges in finding homes for all their cats. By adopting two, you’re helping alleviate some of that burden.
By adopting two cats, you not only rescue those you take home but also create space in the shelter for other cats in need. It’s a powerful way to contribute to the well-being of cats in your community.
So, if you’ve been considering getting a cat, think about the benefits of adopting two. Not only will you be providing your feline companions with a loving home, but you’ll also gain twice the love and joy in return. It’s a win-win situation for everyone!
Takeaway
Having a cat in your life is wonderful, but having two cats is even better. From providing companionship and reducing boredom to promoting social skills and saving lives, there are so many reasons why getting two cats instead of one is a great idea.
Khoddami, S., Kiser, M. C., & Moody, C. M. (2023). Why can’t we be friends? Exploring factors associated with cat owners’ perceptions of the cat-cat relationship in two-cat households. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2023.1128757 ↩︎
Crowell-Davis, S. L., Curtis, T. M., & Knowles, R. J. (2004). Social organization in the cat: A modern understanding. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 6(1), 19–28. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfms.2003.09.013 ↩︎
Ludwig, G. (2018). Katzen - Das große Praxishandbuch. GU. ISBN 978-3-8338-28275 ↩︎
Rochlitz, I. (2005). A review of the housing requirements of domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus) kept in the home. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 93(1–2), 97–109. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2005.01.002 ↩︎
Galaxy, J., Delgado, M. (2019). Der Katzenflüsterer - Für ein glückliches Katzenleben. pp. 181-182. PLAZA. HEEL Verlag GmbH. ISBN 978-3-95843-882-8 ↩︎
