Two are Always Better than One!

You've passed by their cute little faces in pet stores and shelters and have decided that it's time.  You are going to adopt a kitten.  You have no other pets at home and you've done your research.  You understand a litterbox, food, and vet visits all come with adopting this kitten.  You feel you are prepared.

Did you know though that adopting two kittens are better than one?  I know, that means double of everything, right?  Double the food, double the vet visits, and double the litter boxes.  However, consider for a second that the kittens in pairs keep each other entertained, happy, and provide companionship when you are at work or away from home.  Kittens are energetic little creatures and they love nothing more than to play and find mischief.  If there's a curtain to be found, they will climb it.  Pieces of paper or crumbs on the floor, they will try to eat it.  And when they are ready to play at 2 am, you will be their target playmate.  They don't care that you have to wake up at 5 am to prepare for work.  They have one thing on their mind......play and chase!

Kittens adopted in pairs will bond for life and have a far lesser chance of becoming lonely, thus curbing potential negative behaviors.  They learn from one another concerning socially acceptable behaviors, and will essentially train each other.  If one kitten is quick to learn the litter box, the other will follow. They will also groom each other and most likely make a ritual out of it.  A finicky kitten can become curious about its sibling's food and will likely try what the sibling is eating.   The most important point about adopting two kittens is that they will help burn off the endless amount of energy... together.  You won't be the chosen 2 am playmate any longer.  The most damage concerning a 2 am playtime is hearing the kittens romp through the house.  Finally, have you ever sat and watched kittens play? You will be entertained for hours!

It's important to provide your kittens with plenty of stimulation.  This includes cat toys such as mice, scratching posts, and laser pointers.  If toys are not provided the kittens are likely to be creative and find their own playthings.  In other words, your furniture, shoe laces, thread, straws, and anything else that may be lying around.  Simple household throwaways such as bare toilet paper or paper towel rolls or an empty box (of any size) can provide the kittens with hours of entertainment.  Kitty condos are another great investment.  Most have scratching posts integrated into them and provide the kittens an opportunity to climb, hide, and play.  Cats and kittens do not have to go outside the house to be stimulated and should not be allowed outside at all.  Provided with the right type of environment cats and kittens will be well stimulated without ever having to step a paw outside the house.

Kitten season is upon us and most rescues are over flowing with kittens and cats. If you feel it's your time, please visit a rescue group or shelter to adopt and consider adopting two.