Adopting not one, but two fluffy kittens may seem like a dream come true for cat lovers. Life-altering? Well yes, since getting two kittens means twice the food, litter, and vet expenses. But, this also means double the warm snuggles and cheeky antics.
However, you can’t ignore the set of challenges and responsibilities that come with them. Therefore, you must weigh the pros and cons of getting 2 kittens before making this life-altering decision. So, should you be taking this leap? Don’t worry! We’re here to help you make this decision.
This article will walk you through the advantages and disadvantages of having 2 kittens, and help you make the right choice. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Pros And Cons of Getting 2 Kittens
If you are considering adopting two kittens or bringing in a second playmate for your fur baby, you must be ready for all the challenges that come with it. Are 2 kittens harder than 1? Not exactly! In fact, raising 2 kittens at the same time may potentially prove to be less work than 1.
The kittens will keep themselves entertained while you are at work, and you can come home to cuddle two little balls of fur. Isn’t that a win-win situation? Besides, you already have to feed one kitten, and putting out some extra food for another is not a big hassle.
But, you need to be well aware of the cons before taking the plunge. This includes increased veterinary bills, training challenges, and a few more. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of getting 2 kittens.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Companionship | Double the Expenses |
| Socialization | Double the Mess |
| Entertainment | Sibling Rivalry |
| Exercise | Dependency |
| Stress Reduction | Potential Health Concerns |
| Easier Integration | Training Challenges |
The Downside of Adopting 2 Kittens
Two major reasons people shy away from getting 2 kittens are financial restraints and not being ready to deal with double trouble.
- More Expenses
Having 2 kittens means you need to spend twice the amount on food, litter, and veterinary expenses.
- More kittens, More Mess
No matter how much you train your kittens, at the end of the day, they are bound to make some mess. From knocking over stuff to getting into things they should stay away from, be ready to deal with their mischief.
- Sibling Rivalry
Adopting kittens from the same litter may provoke sibling rivalry, leading to aggressiveness and competing for your attention.
- Separation Anxiety
While it is heartening to see your kittens cuddling together, kittens that are overly dependent on each other may cause issues if for some reason they have to stay apart.
- Health Concerns
Adopting two kittens also brings some potential health concerns. If one of them falls sick, the chances of the other one catching the disease are also high. It will be a struggle to keep them apart to reduce the risk of transmission.
- Training Challenge
Training 2 kittens at the same time can be challenging since they tend to learn from each other. If one kitten is a sofa scratcher, the other one will follow in no time.
Benefits of Having 2 Kittens
Do the cons outweigh the pros of having 2 kittens? That depends entirely on you. However, no one with 2 kittens has ever regretted having multiple fur babies.
- Good Company
You won’t have to worry about keeping them company. The kittens will play, snuggle, and sleep together, without you worrying about them while at work.
- Develop Social Skills
It also helps develop their social skills, allowing them to interact with other animals comfortably.
- Their Presence Brings Joy
Having 2 kittens will be a constant source of entertainment for you. Their playful antics, heartwarming snuggles, and sweet purring are enough reasons to give in and get two kittens.
- Second Kitten Can Serve as a Playmate
By engaging in wrestling, running after each other, hunting, and playing together; the kittens will have a better chance at exercising and staying fit.
- Reduces Stress
According to a recent study, cats are known to reduce the psychological and physiological stress in their owners. Of course, having 2 kittens inevitably increases this effect.
- Introducing Two Kittens Can Be Easier Than One
This will take the burden of making them comfortable off your shoulder, or at least reduce it. You can feed the kittens at the same time and train them together; making it less stressful for you and the kittens.
Getting two kittens quiz
Is it the right decision for you? Answer the following questions honestly to find out if getting two kittens is the right choice for you:
Is it Better to Have Two Cats of the Same Gender?
It doesn’t matter what the gender of your cats is, as long as they are neutered and spayed. However, cats of opposite genders are typically more accepting of each other. Neutered males adapt easily, compared to female cats, since female cats are known to be more territorial.
Make sure you slowly introduce the cats and allow ample time to adjust to each other. Give them toys and blankets with the other cat’s scent so they become accustomed to it. It is the personality of individual cats that determines how much time it will take for them to bond.
Is it Normal to Regret Getting a Kitten?
It is absolutely normal to regret getting a kitten, especially if it’s your first time having a pet kitten. Kittens are different from adult cats and require relatively more care and attention. It is a huge change for both you and the kitten, and it is fair you take time to become comfortable around it.
If you feel guilty leaving the kitten alone while at work, you can look into getting two kittens. This way they will have company, and you won’t feel guilty for leaving them behind. Give yourself time, the feeling of regret will go away soon.
Some Personal Experiences From Kitten Owners
I got my first persian kitten; Luna, a year back and soon realized my kitten needed a companion. So I got another, and safe to say this was the best decision of my life. Since they were from different litters, it took them a few weeks to get acclimatized, but they are inseparable now
Olivia Michael Davis
I adopted two ragdoll kittens Banjo and Ozzy from foster at the same time, and I can not imagine my life without either of them. They keep each other company, and it is the sweetest sight to watch them cuddling, or sleeping together. They share the same litter, and sometimes even dishes, so it’s not a hassle feeding or changing the litter
Lily Ellis