Cats crave companionship, and if they are frequently left on their own for hours or even days at a time they experience the same feelings of loneliness, depression, or anxiety that we humans do.
A single cat can still be happy, healthy, and well-adjusted. Just make sure to set aside quality time for human companionship, and keep his environment entertaining and interesting.
It's a common misconception that cats don't experience loneliness, but they do, especially when left alone for long periods of time.
Although cats have a reputation as solitary animals, they are social creatures and can thrive on forming close bonds with other creatures. Certain changes in behavior, such as irregular sleeping, eating, or grooming habits, may indicate that a cat is lonely and could benefit from some feline companionship.
Pairs are Healthier
What's more, a cat with anxiety can develop stress eating, which only makes health problems worse. Cats that come in pairs tend to be healthier and live longer than single cats because they often get more exercise, which keeps their hearts healthy and reduces their stress.
Cats are naturally solitary animals and are often happy without the company of their own species. They are territorial animals who don't like conflict with other cats.
Though household cats do get lonely because they developed a need for companionship, remember their ancestors were solitary animals. Therefore, it's in cats' roots to also enjoy some time to themselves!
Having another cat around can lessen the boredom and loneliness that a solitary cat might experience when you're not there. Sure, cats usually sleep most of the day away, but that doesn't mean they enjoy being alone when they're awake.
How long can cats safely be left alone? Most adult cats are fine being left home alone for up to 24 hours, under the right conditions (more on that below).
Cats are family-oriented and usually live with their relatives. Cats will sleep together, share common feeding areas, and groom one another within family groups. For this reason, cats often do well adopted in pairs.
I hear people often say that they think it will be easier to start with one kitten and then, later on, adopt another. I can see the logic - getting two might seem like rushing into a bigger commitment but really, it's not much different. In fact - bringing in a second kitten later will likely be a much harder process.
Yes, cats can get lonely. For all their solitary behaviour, cats are social creatures that need stimuli and interaction as much as humans do. Companionship, whether with humans or other cats, is an important part of any healthy feline's life. Leaving your cat at home while you go to work should not prove problematic.
Just like humans, cats can get bored too. For such smart animals, boredom might get the best of them if they aren't provided with an environment that provides enough mental and physical stimulation. As a result, a bored cat may exhibit unwanted and destructive behaviors.
Females also tend to be more independent and happy to spend time alone, so a female cat can be a good choice if you'll be out at work all day and just want to be welcomed with a purr when you get home.
Cats tend to be territorial, and sometimes it can take a while for them to accept a new cat in their home. Age can make a difference too. Kittens are more likely to adjust easily to each other fairly quickly. An adult cat might get along better with a kitten rather than another cat of the same age.
If you have a young cat at home and want a second, consider adopting one kitten of the opposite sex, as same-sex cats are much more prone to fight each other for dominance. Your resident cat will still be young enough to recall having fun with her littermates, and the new kitten will be more than happy to oblige.
Single kitten syndrome is the idea that young kittens, when raised with other young kittens and cats and then adopted into a home by themselves, can become aggressive, anxious, stressed, and even develop behavioral issues like inappropriate chewing/scratching and inappropriately using the litterbox.
For cats that are left on their own for long periods each day, it is a good idea to consider providing another cat for company. Sociable interaction with another cat can greatly enrich their daily lives. The younger they are when introduced, the greater the chances of their getting on amicably most of the time.
Adult cats will usually accept a new kitten much more easily than they will accept a new adult cat. Cats are territorial, and your cat may resent an adult feline intruder. If you're able to choose from a group of kittens, avoid a kitten that's hissing, growling or engaged in serious battle with his mates.
Male cats tend to be more social and affectionate with both humans and other cats. They commonly form strong bonds with other cats in the home, even when they are not from the same litter. Females, on the other hand, are often more standoffish. If you are looking for a cuddle bug, adopting a male may be your best bet.
Follow this simple rule: one box per cat, plus one extra. So if you have two cats, you should have three boxes. Making sure everyone has their space can help ease elimination issues. Some owners prefer a hooded box, but some cats don't like them.
Fortunately, neutered and spayed cats are much more likely to get on well together than intact adult cats. Generally, female cats tend to be more accepting of new cats into their home. They are more likely to accept another female cat than a male cat.