I love cats. No two are alike and they are way more intelligent than most of us realize. It tickles me to watch cats outsmart those in their company, including veterinary professionals. After 30 years in practice, I am still fascinated by cat health and behavior.
Most cat owners are multiple cat owners because, like me, once you have a feline family member, you become an addict of sorts. This addiction readily intensifies and before you know it, you are at risk for becoming a "crazy cat person." To set the record straight, "Jobey" and "Diane" are the only two cats I own...well, the only two that live in our house (truer confession: we have had four house cats at a time).
The reality is that while some like to "collect" cats because of this addiction, cats are independent creatures that do not want to be congested in their territories. My observation of multiple cat households is that each additional cat beyond two exponentially increases the likelihood of behavioral problems among them. The second reality is the number one reason cats lose their happy homes is because of inappropriate elimination behaviors associated with this congestion.
To expound further, consider the ancestry of cats. First domesticated as early as 4000 years ago by ancient Egyptians, plentiful rodent populations drew wild cats close to human communities. The killing skills of the Felis catus species quickly drew the affection and attention of early Egyptians who also worshipped a cat goddess and mummified their beloved cats for their journey to the next world (along with mummified mice!). Even historically, cats lived and worked independently, competing for food and territory...sharing was not an option.
So, why then, do we
think cats would be happy living closely with several other Felis cati? Many enjoy companionship, but not constant
companionship, and most crave a "safe" space to call their own. Because
many among us are cat lovers, I would like to share some do's and don'ts of becoming a multiple cat household.
"DO" adopt kittens in
pairs after 7 weeks of age. Siblings have already been bonded
by nature. The kitten socialization period will continue through 12 weeks of
age. Essentially, they are growing up and learning to be social together,
during a critical period.
"DO" adopt a younger
cat or kitten for a companion for your young adult cat. Back
to that independent nature thing, cats become less adaptable the older they get
so choose a companion early in your cat's life.
Kittens are also more adaptable to "playing by the older cat's
rules" and will more readily submit to the pre-existing cat's "laws
of the land."
"DO" consider choosing
a male kitten to join a pre-existing older female cat's home. A
common observation in multiple cat homes is that female cats are less willing
to share their territories at all, let alone with other adult female cats. Inappropriate elimination behaviors may be
more likely among female cats cohabitating.
"DON'T" expect your
pre-existing cat to immediately like the "newbie." Seniority rules so introductions need to be slow and gradual, for both parties
involved. Confine the newcomer to a
small, safe area to grow acquainted to its new home, for days to weeks. The senior cat in the household will become
aware of the new resident via "under the door" communications and
scents. Once acclimated to the sights and sounds of the new home, gradually
give growing freedom to the new adoptee. Some growling and hissing will still be
likely until the two cats establish an understanding of territory and safety.
"DON'T" forget to increase the number of litter pans
to one per cat plus one! Litter pans need to be immaculate
and inviting for all cats. Scoop each
pan at least once daily and dump and clean every pan weekly. Avoid deodorizing cleaners/litters that
stressed cats will avoid. Cats prefer "au
natural" when it comes to their toilets...litter pan deodorants are for
humans, not cats!
Oh, to be a cat...
By Dr. Bonnie Jones
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