Thinking about bringing home a furry friend to join your existing kitty crew? Adding another cat to your household is a big decision that can bring double the purrs and cuddles.
The trick is knowing when your home is ready for another set of whiskers.
Here are some telltale signs that might mean it’s time to visit the shelter.
1. Your Current Cat Seems Lonely
Ever catch your cat staring out the window for hours or following you around like a shadow? These might be signs of kitty loneliness.
Cats are naturally social creatures despite their independent reputation. A feline friend could provide the companionship your solo cat craves when you’re away at work or school.
2. You Find Yourself Browsing Adoption Websites
Those “accidental” clicks on shelter websites aren’t really accidents. Your subconscious is sending a clear message about what you truly want!
When you catch yourself scrolling through adoptable cats during lunch breaks or before bed, your heart has already made room for another feline friend.
3. You Can Afford Double The Cat Expenses
Financial stability is crucial before bringing home another furry family member. Vet visits, quality food, litter, toys – it all adds up!
Calculate your current cat expenses and honestly assess if your budget can handle doubling them. Remember to factor in potential emergency vet care for two cats instead of one.
4. Your Home Has Plenty Of Space
Got empty window sills? Unused sunny spots? Vacant cozy corners? Your home might be telling you there’s room for another set of paws.
Cats appreciate having their own territories, so ample space means less stress during the adjustment period. Multiple floors or rooms create natural boundaries for multi-cat households.
5. Your Current Cat Has A Playful Personality
Watch how your cat interacts with visitors. Does she hide, or does she investigate curiously? Sociable cats often adapt better to feline roommates.
Playful cats who initiate games with humans frequently might enjoy having a permanent playmate. Their energetic nature could benefit from having another kitty to chase and wrestle with.
6. You’ve Noticed Your Cat Playing With Neighborhood Cats
That nose pressed against the window when outdoor cats pass by isn’t just curiosity. Your cat might be longing for feline friendship!
If your indoor kitty seems fascinated by other cats outside, or even attempts friendly communication through the window, they might welcome a permanent feline companion in their territory.
7. Your Work Schedule Has Changed
Longer hours at the office mean your furry friend spends more time solo. A kitty companion could help fight the loneliness.
Cats with buddies often experience less separation anxiety when their humans are away. They keep each other entertained through grooming, playing, and even just napping together in a sunbeam.
8. Your Cat’s Energy Level Exceeds Your Playtime Capacity
Laser pointers and feather wands are fun, but your wrist can only take so much! High-energy cats might need more playtime than humans can provide.
When your frisky feline still zooms around at midnight after multiple play sessions, a fellow cat could help burn off that excess energy. Young cats especially benefit from having playmates their own speed.
9. You’ve Successfully Raised A Kitten Before
Past experience raising a well-adjusted cat gives you valuable skills for adding another. You already know the ropes of litterbox training, socialization, and veterinary care.
Your confidence handling common cat issues means you’re better prepared for the challenges of a multi-cat household. Experience truly is the best teacher in pet parenting!
10. You Find Yourself Talking About Getting Another Cat
“If we had another cat…” has become your conversation starter. Friends are placing bets on when you’ll cave and bring home a new kitty.
When adoption talk dominates your discussions, your heart has already made room. The constant mentions aren’t coincidental – they’re your subconscious nudging you toward what would make you happy.
11. Your Current Cat Is Middle-Aged Or Older
Contrary to popular belief, many mature cats accept new friends beautifully. Their settled personality often makes them more tolerant of newcomers.
A younger companion can actually rejuvenate an older cat, encouraging more play and activity. The energy balance works well – the younger cat gets exercise while respecting the older cat’s authority.
12. You Keep Seeing “Two-For-One” Adoption Specials
Those bonded pairs at the shelter keep catching your eye for good reason. Already-bonded cats come with built-in friendship and fewer introduction headaches.
Shelters often offer special deals on pairs because they know cats often thrive with companions. It’s like the universe is sending you a sign through adoption fee discounts!
13. Your Home Feels Too Quiet
Something’s missing in your living space – that extra patter of paws or meow from another room. The silence feels a bit too… silent.
Homes with multiple cats have a special energy – more activity, more funny moments to witness. If you find yourself wishing for more feline antics to fill your home, another cat might be the answer.
14. Your Cat’s Favorite Person Is Often Unavailable
Cats sometimes bond strongly with one family member. When that person travels or works long hours, kitty might feel abandoned.
A feline friend provides consistent companionship even when the favorite human is away. They offer comfort through physical presence, grooming, and shared warmth that humans can’t always provide 24/7.
15. You Keep Finding Perfect Cat Names
Your mental list of adorable cat names keeps growing. Maybe you’ve even caught yourself saying them out loud to see how they sound.
When potential names pop into your head unprompted, your subconscious is preparing for a new addition. That perfect name deserves its perfect cat – the universe is practically demanding you make the match!