Caring for Multiple Cats

Do you have more than one kitty? Are you considering getting your feline a buddy to keep her company while you are out? Cats are all very unique, and, just like people, they all have their own purrsonalities. Some kitties can become the best of friends, and will happily play together and snuggle up together. However, this isn’t always the case. In this article from Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet serving Louisville and surrounding areas, a local vet discusses caring for multiple cats.

When it comes to ensuring that your pets get along, making the right match is half the battle. Getting two kittens is ideal: Fluffy and Mittens will likely bond quickly, and will grow up playing and napping together. If your resident kitty is an adult, consider getting a kitten: cats often have much more patience for youngsters than they older cats. If you have a senior cat, you may want to get an older cat: your pets will likely be more interested in napping than attacking one another. Or, get two kittens: the little ones can play together, leaving your older feline in peace.

Cats hate sharing litterboxes! We recommend getting one box per furball. You’ll also want to provide at least one extra.

Keep your feline companions on the same schedule for veterinary care and parasite control. Otherwise, the fleas may hop off Fluffy and jump right onto Mittens! Ask your vet for more information.

Your cats may be able to share a water bowl, but they should each have their own food dishes. If Fluffy and Mittens have different nutritional needs, you may need to feed your kitties separately. Ask your vet for specific nutritional recommendations.

Kitties can get very jealous and territorial. Make sure to pay equal attention to all of your feline pals. Having group play sessions can also help your pets form positive associations with one another. It’s also important to provide plenty of toys, so your furry friends don’t argue over whose turn it is to play with the catnip mouse. If you get a cat tower, choose one that can fit both—or all—of your cats at once.

Please contact Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet serving Louisville and surrounding areas, for all of your kitties’ veterinary care needs. We are always here to help!