One Isn't Always the Loneliest Number

Originally published in LEO on March 12, 2000 • Updated with modern guidance in 2026

From The Pet Guy Archives

One Isn't Always the Loneliest Number explores a question many cat owners have asked: Does my cat need another cat to be happy? In this 2000 column, Jeff Seidenfaden answers a reader's question about whether an indoor cat needs a feline companion and explains why the answer depends far more on the individual cat than on human assumptions.

While our understanding of feline behavior has grown over the past two decades, one important truth remains: cats are individuals. Some thrive with a companion, while others are perfectly content as the only cat in the household. Introducing a second cat should always be done thoughtfully and gradually.

Editor's Note: This article reflects common feline behavior recommendations available in 2000. Because research into cat behavior and introduction techniques has continued to evolve, we've included updated guidance below to help today's cat owners make informed decisions.

Original 2000 Column

This week I would like to answer a question from a reader because I believe it's a common one.

"My husband and I adopted a stray cat on Oct. 31," writes T. Creamer of Louisville. "Neither of us has ever owned a cat in our adult lives. We are wondering if we should get her a playmate. We had her spayed and declawed, so she's an inside cat. We both work outside the home and don't know if she needs another warm body in the house during the day. Is that the norm? Are there any signs to tell us that she's lonesome during the day?"

Thanks for writing! Cats are funny creatures, something you probably have noticed already. I have three of my own and they do wonderfully together. In most cases, though, we (the pet owners) tend to feel worse for a "lonely" pet than the "lonely" pet feels for itself. We relate these things to our own experiences, and they tell us that the cat would like a friend. This isn't always the case, however. Some cats will show you in no uncertain terms that another cat isn't for them. Urinating outside the litter box, scratching furniture and hissing by the first cat are all signs that the second cat will not be a loved companion.

This does not necessarily mean you should give up. Only very rarely will cats fight if they are left to carry on their separate lives in a house. Your best bet would be to borrow a friend's cat for a couple of hours and see how yours responds. If it goes well, consider getting your cat a buddy. Be sure that it is a good time in your life to add another pet before you jump in, and be ready for a couple of uneasy weeks while the new pet adjusts to you and while you and your current pet adjust to it. I always recommended that the cats be introduced slowly over several days. Don't just open the carrier and expect the two to run up to each other and start purring, because this probably will not happen. There may even be some hissing and spitting at first, which is normal.

Meanwhile, have a separate litter box for your new cat and also plan on initially feeding and watering in different areas. Don't make your first cat feel as though she's required to share everything with the new one. Allow her to do this in her own time and she most likely will.

Good luck and thanks for adopting a homeless pet!

I want to commend this reader. Not only did she take in a homeless cat, but she is now doing the responsible thing by gathering information before jumping into getting a second pet. Unfortunately, not enough people do this. Hundreds of cats end up in shelters every day because people are not patient with them, or because they didn't do sufficient research before adopting. Many more animals end up in shelters after being turned loose to fend for themselves. Having and caring for a pet doesn't need to be the end of life as you know it. Common sense will often be the best answer for your pet questions.

One Isn't Always the Loneliest Number: The Pet Guy Perspective Today

The central message of this article has stood the test of time: not every cat wants—or needs—a feline companion.

Modern feline behavior research confirms that cats have unique personalities and social preferences. While kittens raised together or bonded pairs often enjoy lifelong companionship, many adult cats are perfectly happy living as the only pet in a household. Adding another cat should be based on your current cat's temperament rather than the owner's concern that the cat might be lonely.

One recommendation that has changed significantly since 2000 involves declawing. At the time this article was written, declawing was still commonly performed in the United States. Today, many veterinarians and animal welfare organizations discourage elective declawing because it removes part of the cat's toes and can lead to long-term behavioral and physical complications. Alternatives such as scratching posts, nail trimming, and nail caps are now widely recommended.

Current feline behavior experts also recommend a slower introduction process than was commonly practiced years ago. New cats should ideally begin in separate rooms while they gradually become accustomed to each other's scent before progressing to supervised visual introductions. Taking introductions slowly greatly increases the likelihood of a successful long-term relationship.

Perhaps the most enduring lesson from this article is that successful pet ownership begins with patience. Whether introducing a second cat or adopting your first, understanding your pet's individual personality remains the foundation of a happy home.

Continue Reading in The Pet Guy Archives

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• House Training Made Easy

• No More Fleas, Please

About The Pet Guy Archives

The Pet Guy Archives preserve Jeff Seidenfaden's original newspaper columns, television features, and educational articles spanning more than three decades. Each article is carefully republished to preserve its historical authenticity while making it accessible to today's pet owners.

About the Author

Jeff Seidenfaden is The Pet Guy—an award-winning pet expert, television host, newspaper columnist, entrepreneur, and animal advocate who has spent more than three decades helping families build better relationships with their pets. Through his newspaper columns, television appearances, and educational outreach, Jeff has shared practical, compassionate advice with hundreds of thousands of pet owners across the country.