Should we get another cat...?

Question

I live with my fiance and we just adopted an adorable kitten about a month ago. He's really sweet, and I wouldn't say needy (he can play by himself) but he follows us to the bathroom, around the house, and can sometimes be a big pest when we're trying to do homework. We both work all day, so he's alone from around 7:30 to 5 or 6 M-F.

I feel sad leaving him by himself (hes about 4 months now), and sometimes he acts out when we finally do get home. We've been trying to stay home more, and do stay home a lot on the weekends.

I'm just afraid he might be jealous, it might get really crazy in our home, or they might not take to one another if I do adopt.

We have the means to take in another, so we'd really like to give one a home. I used to be allergic to cats, but I've been taking claritinD and have been doing much better. Would getting a second cat make my allergies worse?

What should we do? Any help is appreciated. Thank you!

Answer 1

In my experience with cats two cats will keep each other company when you aren't home. They might pay more attention to each other when you are home as well. They are fun to watch when they play together and chase each other all over the house. Some of the disadvantages are, twice the vet bills, twice the poop and pee, and twice the shedding. I personally think it's a good idea if you can tolerate the disadvantages.

Answer 2

My boyfriend is allergic to cats and we have two, he does fine.
I would get the second cat.
Some people might tell you to not have an animal at all if you can't be with it enough etc etc, but I think this is much more applicable to dogs than cats because dogs really need your attention.
Since you have a kitten go ahead and adopt a kitten that is about the same age. Look for one that is in with a bigger litter so that a) you know it will be likely to get along with other cats and b) a larger litter will not pine for the missing cat like if you separated a pair.
It takes time for cats to feel accustomed to each other. When you adopt the new cat take him to the vet on the way home (you don't want your other cat to get sick). Bring your new cat into the house in a pet carrier and set the new cat down in a neutral area (living room usually) in the carrier. Leave the new cat in the carrier and let your old cat investigate... grit your teeth and ignore hissing and growling, this is normal. If they have calmed down enough after 20 min, let new cat out of carrier, just open the door to it, don't force him out. And leave it at that, they'll figure it out on their own.
Remember to show your new cat where the litter box is though. I do that a few hours after bringing new cat home by plopping him the litter box.
Good Luck!

Answer 3

Go for it, he probably does get lonely since he is young. They may not be the best of buddies right away but they should get along fine after a little time, besides if you do need to be away for longer then normal you know he isn't alone and will make things easier. If your allergy is under control you will probably be fine besides if it has been a long time since you found out about a cat allergy you maybe over it now, you can out grow them. Also a friend for your little one will help but they may still both follow you around, they are curious and like attention sometimes so just be ready for possibly double the following around.

Answer 4

I am allergic to cats, dogs, and especially horses. I have all three. The more you are around them, the better your allergies will get. Believe me.

I would definately get another cat. Get another kitten. They'll need some time to adjust to each other, but get another one when you and your fiance will be able to be home for a few days to ensure that the cats get accustomed to each other. If all else fails, separate the cats when you leave for work.

I started out with a female torti. I don't know what you know about cats, but my Maggie can be such a b*tch! I brought home a male orange tabby who was so laid back and mellow that Maggie scared the poop out of him and he wouldn't come out from under my covers for weeks exceot to eat and use the litter box.

Give them time and they will be come friends. My two only fight now when the catnip comes out :)

Answer 5

maximum of it somewhat is sound suggestion. save the hot cat locked in a bathing room or mattress room and supply the resident cat a wager to get used to the scent. After an afternoon or so, try sluggish introductions. supply treats so as that they affiliate the different cat with something beneficial. at last, try a shared play time. Be rapid to chop up them in the event that they initiate off hissing, somebody's ears flow flat, or a tails gets somewhat fluffed up. those are all indications of rigidity and the reason would desire to be got rid of ASAP. stable success!

Answer 6

It would be a nice idea. My cat became very depressed when I started working more hours. I took her to the vet and he recommended I put her on prozac or get another cat to keep her company. I ended up adopting 2! It didnt take to long for them to get used to each other. They still fight (alot) but nothing vicious. She is much happier now bullying around the new cats. Its been 2 years and we couldnt be happier.

Answer 7

Since you're on medicine and it seems to be working well, allergies aren't an issue.

Go ahead and get him a companion. You can expect a little spatting while they settle pecking order issues, but after that there should be no problem- beyond the usual naughty-kitten ones!

Answer 8

I used to have have two kittens but they died at age of 4 months.I have a new cat now and it is just her and tree dogs.My two kittens got along perfect!So ya I think you should.My Grandma has 3 cats and she has allergies too but she takes medicine for it.So adopt a kitten!

Answer 9

He probably just wants love...if you give him another cat he may become jealous of it and fight with it instead of being buddies...try interactive toys that he can play with when you are gone or leave blinds open so he can watch birds, leaves, etc.. outside. Also, try leaving a radio or tv on.

Answer 10

Defintely get him a playmate and yourselves another cat to love. Kittens figure out very fast that it is much more fun to play than fight and they will have a great time together.