Single Kitten Syndrome and why we don’t rehome single kittens….
Taking home just one kitten may seem like a good idea—but a lonely kitten can be a real “cat-tastrophe” for felines and humans alike. Single Kitten Syndrome is the reason that, like many other organizations, we ask for kittens under 6 months to go home in pairs.
Did you know…
Lone Kittens Can Show Aggression as Adults
When two kittens play together, they give each other strong cues not to bite or scratch too hard. As humans, we’re less fluent in feline behavioral signals. In other words, we’re not as good as other kittens at saying “Ouch, that was too hard!” With Single Kitten Syndrome, kittens grow up to be cats with “cattitude.” They tend to play too roughly and often get returned when they reach adulthood and their behavior isn’t so cute anymore.
Two is Less Work than One
A pair of kittens will keep each other socialized, entertained, and exercised, even while you’re away. Adopt one, and you’ll likely come home to a crying kitten desperate for attention. Adopt two, and you’ll come home to happy kittens ready for extra play and snuggles. They’ll still bond to you as their favorite person, but they won’t require the many hours of attention that a single kitten craves each day.
Kittens Learn from Each Other
Baby kitties are still figuring out how to grow up to be cats. Having another feline around helps reinforce good habits like using the litter box and scratching post. With a buddy in the home, they learn to be model “kit-izens” and use their very best behavior.
Growing up with a Different Species isn’t the Same
Dogs and cats can be best buddies. Some dogs and cats even love to play together! But a dog (or any other kind of pet) can’t show a kitten how to use the litterbox or pounce like a tiger.
An Older Cat Might Not Want a Kitten Friend
Single kittens are a lot of work for humans—and they can also be a lot of work for other cats! Getting pounced on or hearing a youngster cry “Will you play with me?” over and over isn’t usually a grown cat’s idea of fun. That’s why having an adult around doesn’t necessarily prevent Single Kitten Syndrome. There are some exceptions: young, playful cats are sometimes thrilled to get a buddy. Usually, though, adopting two kittens is the best choice if you already have a cat at home. That way, the kittens keep each other entertained without stressing your adult kitty.