By Terry King
So you want another cat.
For many people, a single cat is the ideal situation. However, for others, cats seem to be like Crisps. They can't stop with just one. This is partly because there are so many wonderful cat breeds and partly because most cats enjoy the companionship of other cats.
Is owning more than one cat right for the cat you already own? If your cat is ho alone for long periods of time, he may enjoy having another cat around. In addition, an older cat will often develop a new lease on life when a new kitten joins the family. However, cats who enjoy their solitude or are very territorial towards their homes and families may not appreciate sharing their lives with another cat. You will probably already observed your cat around other cats near your house; this will provide a clue about how your cat will respond to a new feline companion. If your current cat is prone to fighting, then it is probably best to avoid adding another to the family.
Don’t be selfish and ignore the feelings of your current cat or family just because you want a new companion.
There are also a few things for cat owners consider. A new kitten means having to go through all of the frustrations of litter box training all over again. In addition, don't forget about the expense of vaccinating and neutering your kitten. Adding an older cat to the family can also be a challenge, as the cat will have to adjust to a new home and may develop behavioral or health problems.
Although some people feel that their cats will be more at home with a cat from the same breed, many cats are quite happy to hang out with other cat breeds. Of course, you may want to reconsider pairing a boisterous, clownish tabby cat with a standoffish Russian Blue. Cat breeds with similar traits do better together than cats that are completely different. Of course, the Himalayan Persian and the Maine Coon breeds are so laid back and friendly that they adapt well to life with the most demanding or playful cats.
Prior to bringing your new cat home, you will need to set up an area for it to stay in while it adjusts. You may even want to put the cat in a crate, especially if you are unsure whether he is litter box trained. Allow the new cat to settle in for a day or so before you worry about introducing him to the rest of the family.
Rather than placing the cats together straight away; try to allow your original cat to become accustomed to the new arrival gradually. Make sure they do not have to share a litter box, food and water bowls, or toys with the newcomer. Besides the fact that your cat may not like to share, there are important health reasons for giving each cat their own equipment. You will reduce the chance of your cats spreading diseases to each other and it is easier to monitor the appetite of each cat if they have separate litter boxes and food bowls. Also, cats who are forced to share litter boxes may decide to create their own litter boxes in other, less convenient places, such as a cupboard floor.Terry King runs Parcel Pets, a leading UK pet supplies web site and has had pets all his life. He lives with his wife Louise, dog Sam, Cat Sabrina and 5 fish!
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