Burmese after losing ‘sister’

[rambutanparty]

Advice on my 10 year old Burmese cat after we lost her ‘sister’ cat. It’s almost two weeks since and she seems to have an upset tummy, ie several times coming in with a dirty bum which has got on our bed sheets. She’s usually very clean. Could this be the upset/loss effecting her tummy? She’s been playing with grey soft toys from our son’s room which she didn’t do before and is very clingy (more than usual and she’s always with us). We got our other (now deceased) cat on vets advice when they were kittens because my Burmese was stressed and lonely on her own. After a week they were good together. Our Burmese generally doesn’t get on with other cats and sometimes they fought but they ate, played and snuggled together often. How would we know if it’s better for her to be on her own now or should we consider a kitten at some point? I think this could stress her more. We’re all missing our other cat so much and I want to do what’s best for this one.

I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your cat.

Despite your Burmese girl seeming to slightly struggle, I probably wouldn't get another cat or kitten at this point.
We have a 13 year old Maine Coon who is now an only cat, after the death of her sister last year. They weren't really close friends but obviously gave each other some companionship, so it did take the remaining girl some time to adjust. Initially, she was off her food and very clingy to us, so we just encouraged her to spend more time with us and our dog. We did consider getting a kitten, but in view of her age, we decided not to. Now, she's got used to being the only cat and seems quite content.

Of course it's very much an individual thing, all cats are different, and other people may recommend getting a kitten. I don't think there is any definitive answer.
If the tummy upset continues you could always get your vet to check her over and ask their opinion about a second cat.

Thank you, I this is what I’m thinking! Our cat that died was a Maine coon. I’m glad yours recovered. We’re all at home do we’ll make extra fuss while we miss our other girl.