If you’ve ever watched your cat stare blankly out the window for hours and thought, “Maybe they need a friend,” you’re not alone.
That was me, a year ago. My cat, Milo, seemed bored. He had every toy known to mankind, a comfy bed (which he ignored in favor of the laundry basket), and unlimited access to sunbathing spots. But something felt… off.
So, I did what any well-intentioned, slightly naïve cat parent would do—I got him a sibling.
Enter Luna—a tiny, feisty ball of fur who immediately declared war on everything Milo owned. My peaceful apartment turned into a feline drama series, complete with staring contests, stolen toys, and an elaborate game of “who owns the couch.”
If you’re thinking about adding a second cat, here’s what I learned (mostly the hard way).
1. Does Your Cat Actually Want a Roommate?
Not all cats are team players. Some love having a feline friend, while others prefer to rule the house solo.
🐾 Social Butterflies: If your cat enjoys playing with other cats, seeks attention constantly, or follows you everywhere, they might enjoy a companion. (Milo fit this category—so I thought he was ready.)
🐾 The Lone Wolf: If your cat is territorial, easily annoyed, or gives you side-eye when you breathe too loudly, they may not appreciate a new cat invading their kingdom.
🚨 Reality Check:
- Milo’s initial reaction to Luna? Hissing, sulking, and retreating under the couch like I had ruined his life.
- Luna’s initial reaction? Immediately tried to sit in Milo’s favorite spot… like a tiny, furry villain.
Lesson: Just because your cat seems lonely doesn’t mean they want a sibling.
2. Do You Have the Patience for a Slow Introduction?
Introducing two cats is not a one-day process—it’s a month-long drama series with unexpected plot twists.
🐾 Steps for a Smooth Introduction:
✔ Scent Swapping – Exchange bedding between the cats before they meet (so they don’t immediately declare war).
✔ Visual Contact First – Use a baby gate or cracked door to let them see each other without full access.
✔ Supervised Meetings – Start with short, monitored visits. (Or, as I called it, “Kitten Diplomacy”—negotiations were tense.)
🚨 Reality Check:
- Milo spent three weeks giving me the silent treatment.
- Luna, completely unfazed, continued stealing his toys.
Lesson: Prepare for some tension—this is a slow burn friendship at best.
3. Can Your Wallet Handle Another Cat? 💸
Having two cats means twice the expenses—and somehow twice the vet visits, even if nothing is wrong.
🐾 Double the Costs Include:
✔ Food & Litter – Two cats. Two stomachs. Twice the bathroom breaks.
✔ Vet Visits – Somehow, the new cat always needs extra checkups?
✔ Toys & Furniture – Because apparently, they can’t share?
🚨 Reality Check:
- I bought one cat tree thinking they’d share. Now I have two, because sharing is a myth.
Lesson: If you’re getting a second cat, budget for more than just food and litter—they will demand equal luxury treatment.
4. Age & Energy: Will They Actually Get Along?
Getting a kitten when you have a senior cat? Prepare for an existential crisis.
🐾 Best Pairing Options:
✔ Similar Ages & Energy Levels – An older cat probably doesn’t want a tiny maniac ruining their naps.
✔ Matching Personalities – If one cat is super chill, a hyperactive kitten might drive them to early retirement.
🚨 Reality Check:
- Milo (6 years old) was not prepared for Luna’s kitten energy.
- Luna thought Milo was her personal jungle gym.
Lesson: Kittens don’t care about “personal space.” Choose wisely.
5. Do You Have Enough Space?
Adding a second cat means territorial negotiations are about to begin.
🐾 What You’ll Need:
✔ Extra Litter Boxes – The golden rule: One per cat, plus an extra.
✔ Multiple Food Stations – So no one gets food-ambushed.
✔ More Vertical Space – Cat trees, shelves, window perches—unless you enjoy refereeing turf wars.
🚨 Reality Check:
- Luna sits in Milo’s favorite window spot.
- Milo responds by sitting on top of Luna.
Lesson: Cats don’t like sharing. Prepare accordingly.
6. The Perks of Having Two Cats 🎉
Okay, despite all the chaos, having two cats is actually amazing.
🐾 Why It’s Worth It:
✔ They Entertain Each Other – Less need for me to be a full-time entertainer.
✔ They Keep Each Other Company – No more lonely naps (for them, at least).
✔ Watching Them Bond = Pure Joy – Once they accept each other, it’s heart-melting.
🚨 Reality Check:
- One day, I caught Milo grooming Luna instead of hissing at her.
- The next day? A full-on wrestling match.
Lesson: Siblings fight, but they also love each other (sometimes).
Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Second Cat?
✔ If your first cat enjoys other animals, go for it!
✔ If your cat is territorial or prefers solitude, they might not appreciate a new addition.
✔ If you’re unsure, fostering first is a great way to test the waters!
For me? Despite the chaos, getting Luna was 100% worth it. Now, instead of staring blankly out the window, Milo has a mischievous little sister to keep him on his toes.🐱 What about you? Have you introduced a second cat before? Share your funniest (or most dramatic) cat introduction stories—I’d love to hear them!