Acat owner from the United Kingdom shared a video explaining why she adopted two felines instead of one, and most internet users agree with her point.
The viral TikTok video, shared in August under the username @timmyvimmy, shows the poster’s two cats, a tabby and a black one, called Timmy and Vinny, spending their days by each other’s side, doing everything together, from bird-watching and playing games, to just chilling on the carpet.
“[Point of view]: your two cats have had each other their entire lives,” reads layover text in the clip, and a caption adds: “Adopt two!”
A trusted friend to rely on is something that all of us need, but is it the same for our felines? A Catster article, medically reviewed by Dr. Marta Vidal-Abarca, says that, because of their flexible social structure, cats are fine with or without other feline companions, and just like humans, some may be more friendly than others.
Cats who are used to interacting with other look-alike companions may miss this social aspect of their life when becoming an only pet, and in some cases, may need a feline companion to spend their days with. However, felines who have always been only pets, are likely to be fine on their own.
The pet health and wellness website Pet MD says lonely cats who are longing for a fellow furry companion will exhibit some signs that give it away. Clinginess, eating and/or sleeping disorders, destructive behavior, litterbox issues, and a shift in their energy levels are all signs that your cat needs a new friend.
When getting a new pet for your lonely cat, it is important that you do it slowly and with caution. Catster suggests swapping scents before allowing them to meet face to face, and keeping them separate in the beginning, giving both equal attention.
But how do you know if your two cats like each other? The British animal charity Blue Cross says that, when cats like each other, they will display obvious signs such as sleeping together and grooming one another.
Instead, if your cats are overgrooming, hiding, or showing other changes in their eating patterns, they may not like each other. Other signs include soiling and/or urine spraying around the home, avoiding the other cat or cats, and changes in character like not seeking as much attention from you.
