There is this universal view of cats that claims that they are solitary creatures that prefer life on their own. That is not entirely true however, while they can be content in their own space they are actually quite social. Today, our Pittsboro vets discuss the signs of when a cat is in need of a friend and how to go about bringing a new cat into your space.
How to Tell if your Cat Wants Another Cat
One of the easiest ways you can tell that your cat is lonely is through their behavior. If a cat is feeling lonely it can affect many aspects of their lives, from sleeping to eating and even their overall demeanor. Here are some signs that you may witness with your cat if they are feeling lonely.
Your Cat Has Become Clingy
You may find your cat is being more vocal than usual and might be following you around no matter where in the house you go. If you notice this then it may require more social interaction. This very demanding conduct could signal separation concerns.
You Find Your Cat Excessively Grooming
One of the ways that cats attempt to soothe themselves is through grooming. So if you notice that your cat has been excessively grooming it could indicate that your cat would benefit from a companion. If your cat exhibits peculiar grooming habits, don't assume he's lonely; it could potentially signify a medical ailment. If you find your cat looking unkempt and not grooming himself as much, it could be an indication that he or she is lonely or sad, but you should consult a vet first.
Your Cat Has Started To Sleep Too Much
Just as with humans and other animals, our cat's sleep patterns can be affected by their emotions. If the cat sleeps a lot and no longer interacts with you, it could be because she is lonely and has become melancholy. However, as with any other habit modification, it is critical to screen out any medical difficulties first.
Your Cat Is No Longer Using The Litter Box Properly
Unusual litter box behaviors can indicate stress or loneliness. If you become aware that your cat has started to relieve itself outside of the litterbox then you should contact your vet right away in order to rule out any medical concerns. Cats are creatures of habit, and when they change their routine, it's like a blinking neon message to humans.
Your Cat Is Eating More Than Usual or Not At All
If your cat becomes bored or is experiencing a lack of stimulation then they may turn to food in order to fill that feeling. The cat, like people, may turn to food when there is nothing else to do. Alternatively, the cat may stop eating because she or he is depressed. A change in eating patterns, on the other hand, may suggest a medical problem, so discuss it with your veterinarian first.
How To Successfully Add a Second Cat To Your Home
Once you have had the opportunity to have your cat assessed by your vet and you have ruled out any health conditions then you can start to look at other options such as adding a second cat to your home.
However, it can be tough to know if a cat is ready to live with another cat, but a cautious introduction process will help them get off on the right foot. Here are some things that you should consider when you are thinking of bringing home a friend for your cat:
- How is your cat getting along with the other cats in the neighborhood? If your cat dislikes other cats entering their territory and becomes agitated or angry when this occurs, it could be a hint that they would not accept sharing their home with another cat. Bengals, for example, are ideally suited to being sole cats.
- Cats who are related get along better than cats that are not related.
- Younger cats are more likely than older cats to accept new feline members of the household.
- Because of the lack of hormones, neutered cats get along considerably better than unneutered cats.
- Is your house large enough to give each cat their own space where they can get away from other cats if they want to?
How To Add a New Cat After the Death of the Previous One
If your cat has spent the majority of their life with a feline friend and then they no longer have that friend we may immediately think that they require a replacement. We recommend giving your surviving cat some time to adjust to life without their mate before obtaining a new cat or kitten. Cats have particular social needs, so even if they have lived contentedly beside another cat for many years, they may not feel the need for another partner.
How To Tell That Your Cats Are Getting Along
Cats with a strong link will frequently show clear indicators that they regard themselves to be members of the same social group. Grooming each other, sleeping, or lying next to each other are examples of these indicators. They may regularly greet each other by touching noses or making a little meow as they pass.