Do cats need a playmate or are they ok by themselves?

Question

I have a 6month old kitten. He is very loving and playful. I feel guilty every time I leave the house, because I am afraid he will be lonely by himself. So I adopted a 3month old kitty to keep him company. I think he does like having a playmate, but he is more reserved and indifferent towards me. I miss the loving little guy that used to snuggle with me, etc. Is this a phase that will pass, or is this how it's going to be as long as there is another animal in the house? And if it's something that won't pass, is it really that bad for cats if they are the "only child?"

Answer 1

Most cats are happier when they have another partner to play with. You can't be around all the time, and while it is sometimes nice to be the center of your cat's attention, it is not very mentally healthy for your cat when you are not around. There are some cats that prefer to be alone, but that usually includes keeping you at a distance as well unfortunately.

These cats are still very young and it is good that they are bonding with each other. What you'll most likely see as they get older is that they will both play with you and generally be around. I have three cats and when I get home from work and sit in my chair, I have three cats laying on top of me.

Make an effort to play with them together. Toss a ball or a toy they like and let them both chase it. Just generally engage them both together and they'll just consider you one of them. Also they will like to ruff-house together (rolling around wrestling and batting at each other) and that is harmless play to them. Sometimes when my three cats all get going with each other I feel like I am living on the Serengeti.

Answer 2

I've learned there is no such thing as one cat, lol. Cats are as individual as people. Some cats are extremely social, others are not. Some like children, others don't, same with dogs. Your cat's indifference to the new kitten may be that it feels a bit threatened, or, as a fairly young cat himself, he may not know what to make of this new comer and is just hanging back waiting to see what this kitten is all about. When the small kitten is a little older he may warm up to him. It's a good sign that he isn't picking on the new kitten. I'd say give them time.

I have 2 cats and the occassional visitor cat (when a relative goes away for a while) - our two cats love each other and play and sleep together, but one is stand offish and the other loves anyone one and anything. With visiting cat, the standoffish one stays away from the visitor, the friendly one hangs out with visitor, 'cause well, he's a living thing and that cat just loves everybody.

Answer 3

My cat hangs out by herself while I am at work all day. I feel guilty every single morning, and when I come home she is so excited to see me.. but you have to realize that cats sleep about 16 hours per day. The phase will pass once he is used to the other kitty. When my cat met my sisters' cat, she kept to herself until she knew her territory wasn't threatened. Give it time..

Answer 4

I think it will pass, maybe he is a bit jealous but I do think he will get used to the other kitten and they will become the best of friends! Plus, he won't be as lonely when he is alone!!

Answer 5

As cats grow their personalities change just like humans. You were righ to get him a play mate. Kittens, like most mammalian babies, need lots of interaction and company. Just be sure to have him neutered soon if he isn't, and give him pleanty of attention.

Cats, even very aloof ones, typically warm up to you when you give them attention.

Answer 6

they are independent, but a little company is always welcomed, not older cats the just get cranky and hiss. two little kittens are so darn cute though!

Answer 7

u should have 2 cats and play with them alot