Imagine if you were the only human being in a place, and all that is around you are creatures very unlike yourself - for your entire life! There is no one to talk to or play with. No one to cuddle up to except these creatures very unlike you. They're kind to you and provide you with all your basic needs, but yet, you are alone.
Many people think cats, for example, are "solitary" animals and don't mind being alone. There are more cats living completely alone than any other pet. They spend hour upon hour totally alone with mostly nothing to do but gaze out a window - and this is the main thrust of their entire lives. Yet if cats are left to their own choices they will always, always seek out the regular company of other cats, and even form groups they will stay permanently with, even if they are not related. Why? For companionship, just like we ourselves crave.
Even dogs, who have been bred for thousands of years to be primarily the companions of men and take great pleasure in the company of people who are kind to them, will find great pleasure and comfort in the company of another dog or dogs (mostly, not always). A lone pet dog who can be taken to a dog park or other place to commune and play with other dogs on a regular basis is lucky - and happy - indeed!
Even the smallest mouse or hamster would find great happiness in having a friend - just like most of us would!
I commend you for considering the feelings of animals as you have with this question.
2006-12-04 01:43:58
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answer #1
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answered by Lynn A 2
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Some animals prefer to be the only pet in the household. Cats seem to often prefer to be the only cat although not always. It depends on what kind of pet it is and how old and if it's used to company. I had 1 cockatiel and now have 3 and I think they really enjoy each others company! I have 2 puppies and I know they love having each other. I also have 3 cats and I know they could care less about each other.
2006-12-04 09:16:21
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answer #2
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answered by SHELTIELUVER 3
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Yes they do get lonely. If you are home most of the day with your pet, and give it lots of attention and love, then your pet will be fine. But if you're gone for the better part of the day and your pet is alone, then another pet of the same type would be a good thing (provided they liked each other).
2006-12-04 08:49:33
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answer #3
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answered by rosecitylady 5
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Depends on the pet. Yes, I think my dog would get lonely if left home alone all day, same with a cat. On the other hand, some pets do not get along with others of they're species, so what kind of pet are we talking about?
2006-12-04 08:47:46
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answer #4
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answered by Lori E 4
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Depending on what animal it is. Cats can normally keep themselves company, and if its a cat that's been living with you for a while, they wouldn't feel comfy with another one. If you get the animals at around the same time it should be fine.
Dogs can do with the attention, but in the beginning they might act as though they don't want the company because they feel the other dog is coming in on its territory, eventually they get along. But most other animals could do with the attention, like birds and fish.
Good luck & no its not cruel, you could be saving it from a live of cruelty just by having it as you pet!
2006-12-04 08:52:37
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answer #5
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answered by trixyt1 3
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I don't think it's *cruelty, but they do get lonely, and sometimes act out by tearing things up because you left them alone. Sometimes you are asking for more trouble by having 2 or 3, as they are like kids getting into trouble, when otherwise they wouldnt do much in the line of mischief. Just be sure to give lots of attention after you've left your pet at home alone.
Good luck!
2006-12-04 08:53:23
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answer #6
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answered by hot2trot 2
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It depends on the pet. If you mean dogs, they are often are much happier with a companion, especially if they are left alone while you are working. However, some dogs are very territorial and do not want another dog in their space.
We have always had at least two dogs, and they are much more contented and easier to train. When we go out, they snuggle up together.
At the moment, we are up to 4 Great Danes, two foster rescues and my own two boys. They are quite happy with new playmates, and you have only to look at the sparkle in their eyes to know how much they are enjoying it.
2006-12-04 09:07:51
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answer #7
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answered by Anonymous
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That all depends on how much time you are able to spend with your pet, if you can devote alot of time, then No, but if you are a busy person and don't have alot of time then Yes, and you should ask yourself why you got a pet in the first place.
2006-12-04 08:51:27
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answer #8
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answered by firesign_32 2
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It is not necessarily cruel, as long as you show them love each and every day. The rule of thumb for dogs and cats is three is the same as one.....which is true, because after a while it takes the same effort to have two/three as it does to have just one. You just have to train them all the same and they'll work and play in tandem with you by following your lead. Also, it even makes it easier for you in the long run because they do have each other. Be well and good luck, Jack
2006-12-04 08:48:39
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answer #9
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answered by Anonymous
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depends on the the animal. My dog hates other dogs (she is small) and would be really stressed out if there were more animals of any kind in our house. A horse or other herd animal should have either a member of its kind or some other companion (sheep, goat, even a cat) with him. So it really just depends on the animal.
2006-12-04 08:49:39
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answer #10
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answered by Anonymous
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