Taking home just one kitten may seem like a good idea—but a lonely kitten can be a real “cat-tastrophe” for felines and humans alike. Single Kitten Syndrome is the reason that, like many other organizations, we ask for kittens under 6 months to go home in pairs.
Because of the attachments they form, the answer is yes; cats can feel lonely! While each kitty has a unique personality and needs, the following signs could indicate a lonely cat: Destructive behavior. Loss or increase in appetite.
Generally, it's pretty uncommon for cats to have just one kitten, but it's nothing to be concerned about if it happens to your cat. We say this because, usually, a cat owner expects more than one litter to come out instead of one.
Providing lots of warm, cozy spaces, such as small beds, fleece blankets and stuffed toys that have a heartbeat sound, helps kittens feel safe enough to rest and sleep. Placing these items close to where you sleep may help kittens feel even more secure.
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.
Understanding the Kitty 'Terrible Two's'
Between the age of 6 months and 2 years, your kitten will be reaching physical and sexual maturity. They will grow out of being a pure bundle of energy but, like human teenagers, they will be learning and exploring more of the world around them.
Despite the common belief that cats are solitary animals, they're actually incredibly social beings who thrive when they have feline friends from an early age. That's why I always recommend adopting two kittens, or adopting a solo kitten only if you already have another young cat in the home for the kitten to befriend.
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.
Secure the kitten in one room before you leave, and include a bed, litterbox, scratching post, toys, food and water. Consider adding a nightlight or leaving a light on if you'll be gone all evening. You may want to try playing light music or talk radio, too—the sounds can be soothing to a kitten that's alone.
Can I leave my kitten alone while I sleep? If you don't want your kitten in your room, they can be left alone whilst you sleep – give them a soft, warm and secure place to rest and they should be happy. If you do choose to do this, close the door so they can't hurt themselves whilst you sleep.
Although relatively rare, this is by no means abnormal. Cats can have anywhere between 1-12 kittens with an average of 4 in a litter.
It is a common misconception that kittens are ready to be separated from their mom and littermates as soon as they are weaned and start eating on their own (between the 4th and 8th week of age). The truth is, however, that it is generally recommended to keep the kittens with their littermates for at least 12 weeks.
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.
This means that the best place for a kitten to sleep is a warm and secure spot, sheltered from draughts. It's not a bad idea to have the kitten close to you for just the first few nights. Find a cosy place next to your bed and you can even choose a spot up off the floor if possible.
Kittens who are able to remain with one of their littermates or a similarly-aged companion tend to be healthier and happier, and in the long run, better socialized pets than those who are isolated from others of their kind at an early age.
Kittens younger than six months are developing rapidly both mentally and physically and crave a strong bond with their humans. Being separated from them for long periods leads to loneliness and anxiety, resulting in various health and behavioural problems.
Put your cat's food inside a puzzle feeder or treat dispenser to stimulate them and give them something fun to do while you're gone. Provide a stimulating environment for when they're alone: think hideaways and tunnels, cat trees and perches, hanging toys with catnip and interactive toys.
As tempting as it may be, avoid letting your kitten sleep on your bed or with the kids. As well as being dangerous for your kitten, cats carry some diseases that can be transmitted to humans. To avoid injury, it's best to keep your kitten in a secure space while you're both sleeping.
Symptoms of Fading Kitten Syndrome
Early signs that a kitten is fading may include lethargy, lack of interest in nursing, sleeping separately from the litter, and whining. Caregivers may notice that the kitten's skin is less elastic, which is a symptom of dehydration.
Kittens are very time consuming, and while it's rewarding to watch them grow and develop it also takes a lot of hard work. Sometimes, you might find that adopting a more mature, independent adult cat actually suits you better.
Kittens want and need interaction with others of their own kind for healthy social development. A kitten learns a lot in the first several months of life from its mother and litter-mates.
Intensive growth 2-4 months. This is the naughty stage of the kitten development chart when your kittens start to show their true colours! An important stage in kitten growth, the personalities of your kitties will come forth during this time making it one of the most endearing stages of kitten development.
Choosing a gender
Males, or toms, can be friendlier than females. Intact male cats "spray" to mark their territory and “howl” for females (this is usually not a problem if you get him neutered). Female cats tend to be more reserved than males but are far less likely to spray.