I had to have my 16-year old female cat put to sleep about six weeks ago because of health problems. My cat lived with her since he was three months old. I'm wondering if he's lonesome and needs company. I brought a kitten in for him but that didn't work out because she was too young and she just bothered him too much. He's almost 14 years old and he's not in to playing much now. He just wants to lay around and sleep. Do you think he'll be okay by himself or should I get company for him. I've always had two cats. I hate to see them be alone. Being cats can't talk, I can't tell if he misses her or he's lonesome. What do you think? Because I'd like to get another cat but I don't want to make him uncomfortable again.
2006-12-30 10:17:31 · 11 answers · asked by angeleyes 3 in Pets ➔ Cats
I would say it would depend on how much he is left alone by himself. If he was not happy with a new kitten maybe get him a cat that is a bit older like maybe one from a shelter and try that out.
2006-12-30 10:21:05 · answer #1 · answered by ? 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Get a cat that is closer to his age. Cat's benefit better from having a companion or buddy but when they are older they want to be around a cat that is around there own age. The kittens are just too playful for them when they get older. My husband and I inherited my in-law's cat who was 9 years old and the cat we already had was 8 years and they were best friends and the 8 year old cat had to be put down a couple of years ago because he became diabetic and it got the best of him. So, about a year ago we got another cat to be a friend to the one that we had that was still alive. They are the best of friends. So, i would say definentely try a cat closer to his age.You can get them from the humane society, other shelters, petsmart adoption centers which are right in the petsmart stores,check at your vets office too because alot of the time people post signs there with cats that need homes. the cat we got last year we got her through a sign posted at the vet's office and it has worked out wonderfully.
2006-12-30 12:02:24 · answer #2 · answered by Strong Happy Marriage 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The best chance of success when introducing a new cat it opposite sex and younger. Normally you should allow 2-4 weeks when introducing a kitten. I just introduced a six month old male to my 13 year old female. She hated him for three weeks and now sleeps with him (and, incidentally, is playing with her toys more & has more energy). I would try a female kitten, again, but at least 6 months, if the younger ones are too hyper. Give it time and he will come around.
2006-12-30 13:19:16 · answer #3 · answered by shasser2 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your cat may be fine alone. Some cats are-- and some cats prefer being alone.
However, if you think he needs company, I suggest getting TWO kittens. As you noticed, one kitten will pester an older cat, wanting to play. Two kittens will play together and often an older cat will find it interesting-- and sometimes join in a bit. It's a much easier transition. If you do, give your cat more attention while the kittens entertain each other.
2006-12-30 10:22:24 · answer #4 · answered by princessmikey 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your kitty should be fine, its normal that he lays around and sleeps all day because at 14 hes an old man. He should be just fine by himself, because he most likely wouldnt want to be bothered by another cat that just wants to play all day.
If you do decide to get another cat, dont go for a kitten as it will drive the older cat insane (as I see youve already noticed) try for a cat thats at least 1 yr old. Cats at this age, although playful, will bother your old cat much less and will be more independent.
To keep your current kitty happy, make sure that You interact with him enough. He will be much happier having playtime with you, his old buddy, then another cat he doesnt know.
Hope this helps.
2006-12-30 12:00:19 · answer #5 · answered by vampira53 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
People usually have pets in pairs to maintain mental stimulation for the animals. At 14, your cat is probably more interested in sleep, some tlc, and a hearty meal. Provide him with some play time (string chasing, balls, catnip mice etc) and make sure to interact with him for a little while every day. If he's still active or curious, you may try hiding treats in easy to access places he may frequent to give him a bit of a game with tasty rewards. So long as there is some interaction and stimulation for your pet, he should be a very contented old man.
2006-12-30 10:27:26 · answer #6 · answered by EarthMajik 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No dont do it. Your cat is old enough that getting another cat would just piss it off. Getting another cat now would be a big misstake, Enjoy the one you have and accept the fact that older cats dont play as much as kitten do. Buy your cat some new toys though and maybe he'll surprise you.
2006-12-30 10:21:49 · answer #7 · answered by ChrissyLicious 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
If you get another cat you wont make him feel uncomfortable. just remember that he is getting very old now, and i wouldnt reccommend another kitten: its too young and energetic for ur old boy: go to a shelter and get an older cat who isnt as energetic.
you dont have to get one for him either: cats can live happily on their own as long as they are getting enough love and attention from their owners; mind u he may be a bit depressed after losing his friend- another cat couldnt hurt...?
2006-12-30 12:41:22 · answer #8 · answered by <3 <3 <3 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I feel that all animals should have a companion. I have 4 cats and they all love each alot. When one is missing the others go to find it. They sleep together, play, eat together. My opinion is I think it is a great idea.
2006-12-30 10:29:46 · answer #9 · answered by wolfeyes 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Get a cat the same age as him! That should help.
2006-12-30 10:22:18 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋