persuading DH that we should adopt a second cat

[pinkhebe]

We've had our kitten since August, he's 9 months old now, it took alot of persuasion to convince DH to let us have one, but now he's here none of us can imagine a life without him.

He came from a family with quite a few cats, and he's really sociable, always playing with other cats in the garden.

There are so many cats needing rehoming and I've found several black cats of a similar age that are waiting for adoption from the cats protection, So how do I persuade? I really want the whole family to be in agreement.

Maybe I should just open a bottle of wine and get the sexy undies our

Well that could work pinkhebe

Is the cat ever left alone during the day? Could be a good argument point as a bored cat isn't a happy one. I always advocate getting kittens in pairs but bringing together 2 cats isn't quite so easy really. You will be invading your cats territory. You will have to consider if this is best for your cat and how your cat might respond. Remember you aren't getting another cat for your cat you are getting it for you as you will appreciate it being there more than your cat will.

Caring for 2 cats isn't much different than caring for one so that should be a point in favour of getting another cat. Food bills, vet bills double and boarding fees usually increase by 50% for the second cat (assuming they will board together). I love my second cat but sometimes I wish we'd never got her (although I couldn't part with her now I have). All cats have their own personalities but my second cat meows constantly (and it is rather loud) and annoys my neighbours while my neighbours don't even know my first cat exists since she is so quiet.

2 cats play with each other and keep each other company - saves them getting into too much mischief

Quick hijack on behalf of boris. He has found himself a home with one of my best friends and her dh and ds. She thought about it for a long time apparantly and has now said yes so all is good. Thank you for your interest pinkhebe x

for Boris.
Maybe it wouldn't be so good, but I did think it might be easier to introduce them while they were both still young arrgh I'm not sure now

Our second cat made our first cat really miserable. He had to be rehomed due to illness and she's a changed cat now and soooo much happier. Getting a second isn't always fun and catnip. He may enjoy playing with other cats when he's out and about, but my hate it if another moggy moves in. (Or not of course )

Every cat behaviour book I have read says that cat's are solitary animals. One said that cats live together under duress. It's anthropomorphism that leads owners to interpret behaviours (eg chasing, 'cuddling up' one with a paw across the other) that are actually about dominance and cause stress, as being cute and indicative of cats 'getting on'. Even with no paw fights going on apparently one cat can be living a life of fear. Areas of competition seem to be litter trays and food bowls.