One of our adopters wrote: “Last year I decided that I wanted to adopt a kitten so I contacted Woodland Nook Cat Rescue. They convinced me to take not just one kitten but one of her siblings, too. Best decision ever made!
“Pixie and George eat, sleep and play together. They sit together in the bay window, watching everything going on outside, always grooming each other and running around the house playing chase for hours. They are wonderful company for each other. They never stray far from each other’s side. They are inseparable; I’m so happy that I didn't separate them.”
Most cats, regardless of their age, are highly social and are happier living with other cat companions.
Kittens are no exception.
Here are six reasons not to adopt a single kitten:
Delayed development
Kittens want and need interaction with other kittens for healthy social development. A kitten will learn from its mother and litter mates. Separating a kitten from its mother is often necessary for adoption. But taking a kitten away from its litter mates can delay his development emotionally, socially and physically. Kittens who remain with a litter mate or a similarly aged companion are healthier, happier and better socialised.
Destructive behaviour
Kittens are curious and crave constant stimulation. A single kitten will become bored and entertain itself by chewing plants, climbing curtains and furniture. It is less likely that kitten who live with other kittens will engage in destructive and sometimes dangerous behaviour.
Night-time disruption
Kittens are active at night. A single kitten may wake you with hunting behaviour such as jumping and pouncing. However, two kittens will occupy each other with play until they fall into a contented sleep.
Biting
It is right that kittens “play bite” and tussle with each other. Without another kitten to play with, a kitten will practise on you for stimulation.
Demanding constant attention
Anyone at home during the day will find that a single kitten will demand constant attention so occupying all your waking hours. A pair of kittens will still interact with you but they can occupy each other while you get on with your daily activities.
Irritating to an older cat
Think twice before bringing a kitten home to a senior feline! A kitten may have too much energy for an older cat. Kittens want to run and play and interact. This may irritate and overwhelm an older cat and the kitten may be frustrated if the senior companion doesn't want to “play”. Then you end up with two miserable cats. Behavioural problems, such as destructive scratching or not using the litter tray when needing the toilet will probably occur. Long-term, the two may never enjoy a close relationship as their first experience of each other was negative. Best to match an older cat with someone slightly younger and of a similar personality.
Adopting a single kitten or young cat is not a good idea.
Our aim is to ensure our kittens and cats are adopted into loving, happy Forever Homes.
Jane Lynegar
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