Cats are incredibly social creatures. We may not think about it, but cats need each other just as much as humans need interaction with other humans (as we've learned from the pandemic!). So the next time you go to adopt a furry friend, think long and hard about adopting a friend for your little fluffball- whether that's a brother, sister, or playmate!
Why is this so important?
I have learned from personal experience just how crucial it is to adopt more than one furry friend. Before my family started fostering, we adopted a cat named Skippy Jon. We were thinking about adopting his sister, Luna, as well, but decided against it since we thought it would be too much work.
We have regretted that decision the entire time we've had him.
When a cat has a playmate, they tend to be more social and loving towards people even when they get older. We have noticed that through the years, while Skippy always loves to be near us, he has grown into a mean and cranky cat. This made us incredibly hesitant to adopt two of our foster fails, because why should we adopt more cats if they will just turn out to be as cranky as Skippy Jon is? However, we have already noticed a difference with our foster fails. Because we adopted the two brothers together, they have grown up to be much happier and loving than Skippy was, because they have a forever buddy to give each other constant attention. I always see them tackling each other during their feisty moods, or giving each other baths and cuddles during their quiet hours. Skippy, on the other hand, doesn't have anyone to do that for him. He has to rely on us humans to constantly give him attention and loves, which lets be real, we don't always have the time for.
But isn't it much more work to adopt two cats?
Most people think that two cats means extra cleaning, time, and money. Sure, you need another litter box, double the kibble, and of course, double the loves. But it's not all bad, and in fact, having two cats can reduce the hours spent cleaning and playing with them. This is because when cats have a buddy, they entertain each other. They don't feel the need to tear up the furniture or destroy things when they get their "zoomies", because they have a buddy to tackle! You will actually save a lot of time and money by not having to clean up after the destructive messes that a single kitty will make. Not only that, but the kitties will require less attention from you. When you go out of town, you will feel a lot less guilty leaving them home for a while with only a sitter every few hours because they have each other! Even during long hours spent away from home at work, school, or anything else, you can enjoy your day without feeling guilty about the kitties.
But most importantly- adopting two cats saves two lives!
Instead of just one cat being rescued from having to live the rest of his/her life locked up in a tiny kennel, you are saving two cats from that fate! I hope from reading this article, you will seriously consider adopting two cats instead of one the next time you go to the shelter.
Comments