Should I get a cat to keep my cat company?

It’s a question many cat owners find themselves asking. Do cats get lonely being the only cat? Or is my cat lonely at home while I’m out? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Cat behaviourist Jess Williams explains how to tell if your cat is lonely. 

Do cats get lonely?

Cats are often thought of as independent animals, and there’s a good reason for that. Domestic cats evolved from the African wildcat, a solitary species that thrives alone. Because of this, most cats are quite content spending time on their own. 

But cats are also sensitive to changes in their environment and relationships. For example, when a companion cat passes away, they may show signs of grief. These signs of grief can include:

• looking around for their lost friend
• being more vocal
• appearing subdued

But this isn’t exactly loneliness as we define it in humans. It’s a reaction to the loss of a specific relationship, not a general longing for company.

Some behaviours are sometimes mistaken for loneliness, including: 

• excessive meowing
• destructive scratching 
• hyperactivity

But these are more commonly signs of boredom, stress, frustration, or in some cases, a medical issue. These underlying causes need to be addressed first.  

How can I tell if my cat is lonely? 

If your cat isn’t acting like themselves when you're away, they may be finding it hard to cope.

Signs your cat is lonely could include:

• excessive meowing
• pacing or restlessness
• hiding more often
• toileting outside the litter tray
• scratching furniture or other destructive behaviours

But these behaviours can also be caused by changes in routine, boredom or even medical problems. Always speak to your vet first if you notice any changes in your cat’s behaviour.

Should I get another cat to keep my cat company?

It’s natural to think that if your cat seems lonely, maybe they need a feline friend. But this solution is not always helpful and can sometimes make things worse.

While some cats form strong bonds with other cats, these relationships are specific and unique. Just because your cat lived happily with another cat before, doesn’t mean they’ll accept a new one. Unlike dogs, cats don’t instinctively seek out social companionship with others of their species.

Adding a new cat to the home should be a slow and delicate process. Simply putting two cats together and hoping for the best can result in stress and conflict. Even once they’ve settled, things can change. A vet visit or the introduction of a new baby can upset the balance.

If you’re considering adopting another cat, it’s important to plan the introduction carefully. Find expert advice on how to introduce cats to other cats. 

Still unsure? A chat with your vet or a cat behaviourist can help you make the right decision for your pet.

My cat is lonely. What should I do? 

There are plenty of ways to enrich your cat’s life and help them feel more settled when you're not around, without the need to get another cat. 

1. Stick to a routine. Cats thrive on consistency. Feeding, playtime and rest should happen around the same time each day. Sudden changes can be stressful, so aim for predictability.
2. Make time for play. Cats love to play in short bursts. Just five minutes of interactive play a few times a day can make a big difference. It helps your cat burn energy and strengthens your bond.
3. Challenge their mind. Mental stimulation is as important as physical activity. Try puzzle feeders for some meals or short training sessions while you’re home. It’s a fun way to keep your cat engaged. Learn more about puzzle feeding and find out how to train your cat. 
4. Encourage solo play. Make your home more interesting! Cardboard boxes, cat tunnels, climbing trees and a rotation of different toys can provide hours of entertainment. Hide treats or toys to spark their natural hunting instincts.
5. Offer outdoor access. If it's safe and practical, giving your cat outdoor access through a secure garden or cat flap can offer huge enrichment benefits. The sights, sounds and smells of the outside world are a natural boredom-buster.

My dog is lonely. Should I get a cat?

Some dogs and cats develop strong friendships, but it’s not a guaranteed fix. If your dog struggles with being left alone, adding a cat probably won’t help. It might even cause more stress for both animals.

Dogs are social by nature and can suffer more significantly from separation-related behaviours. These issues are best addressed with training and behaviour support.

Also, not all dogs are suited to living with cats, especially those with a strong prey drive. If you’re thinking about introducing a cat into a dog’s home, be sure to check whether your dog is ready for it. Training, gradual introductions and a cat-only safe space are essential. Find out how to introduce cats and dogs.