One kitten or two

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We have always had kittens in pairs. Siblings that have grown up together. I’m used to that and it seems normal. They play and fight and snuggle up to sleep together. We are looking to get a new kitten since our last cat passed a year ago and we are ready.

is it cruel to have just one? Do they get lonely?

Two has always worked well for us (except the time that we got three - that worked well too 😀).

Everybody wants kittens. There are never enough kittens…

There are, however, LOTS of adult cats looking for good homes and most of them prefer to be the only cat in the household. They can be the most loyal and affectionate companions.

(I foster cats, and it so satisfying to see an older cat come out of their shell and start to bond…)

I have a feline allergy so I am restricted to a few breeds that produce low levels of feel-d 1

the chances of finding one and being able to guarantee it is purebred is slim to none.

I can’t risk 14-20 years of allergy

Most breeds have a breed rehoming programme, and often have young adult cats direct from the breeders e.g. most decent breeders don't use queens beyond 2-3 litters and about 3 years old. There are also rescues who specialise in certain breeds.

Many breeders themselves can have a "first option" clause when they sell kittens whereby if the new owners can't keep them for any reason, they are returned to the breeder; that's how my DBro got 2 young adult Burmese.

If you want a kitten from a rehoming centre (which you don’t) they like to rehome in pairs, or if a single kitten to a house with an existing cat to show them the ropes. Being with another cat teaches them how to cat better, and also means you feel less responsibility for keeping them entertained. Kittens are exhausting.

I would always get two kittens unless you have a tolerant adult cat in the house for them to play with and learn from.

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