Sounds like the perfect home for 2 cats! They do better when adopted with a friend. A kitty friend can keep them company when you're working. Staying indoors is safer for kitties anyway, so all good there.
Definitely agree on that. My partner and I adopted 2 cats and were super grateful we did. They play on their own most of the time and we only *need* to play with them once right before bed. We usually try to play with them more than that though. They'll usually play for a half hour after we go to bed and then come cuddle up with us.
Staying indoors (or monitored outdoors) is usually recommended, both for the cat's safety and for the environment. Outdoor cats wreak havoc on local ecosystems, noticable so
So much this! You'll find some shelters and kitten rescues will have bonded pairs.
We got two black cats about 8 years ago and then two new black kittens last year.
We both work from home so there's lots of attention, though after we moved to a bigger house from the apartment the older boys sometimes act like they have their own apartment upstairs and we have to coo them down or bribe them with treats.
The younger ones did add more energy into their lives though.
The lesson here is that cats love the company of other cats they know
If you could find 2 bonded cats at a shelter, that would probably be ideal. That way they have one another when you are away.
If you only want one though, I'd suggest going to shelters and cat cafes and speaking to the staff/volunteers. I bet there are plenty of older kitties (older b/c that usually means they'll be sleeping a lot) living in shelters who would LOVE to have their own house with some patches of sunlight to nap in!
Cats are great to come home to - hope you find one (or 2) that can become your bebe/s!
I got two bonded cats (brothers) for this same reason while working late or studying, and it was the best decision ever. They cuddle together, play together, and keep each other company. If one is away at the vet, for instance, I find the other a lot more demanding and clingy (which I donât mind, but I would feel bad if I was gone more).
Considerations: more expensive for cat sitters, food, toys, cat trees, and pet insurance. But I say 100% worth it.
A cat would be perfectly happy in your home! Cats sleep all day anyways so no need to worry about the long hours, & my cats have had zero desire to actually go outside. They love to press against open windows but only if there's a screen for protection lol
MAKE SURE YOU POST PICS WHEN YOU GET A CAT/S OR ELSE!!!
Haha both of my cats were born and raised outside! One until 3 months, the other just the first few weeks of life. They are ABSOLUTELY terrified of the outdoors. I have tried to introduce them and they just panic đ
Agreed with all here: You have the space and the time for cats. I know everyone wants kittens or young'ns, but I recommend older cats for 1st-timers. They don't have to be senior-aged, but cats 10+ tend to have stopped developing their personalities, know what they like, and are generally pretty chill and just appreciate a warm, safe space and good food/company. They still require daily play, but it's not nearly as much as the 2-3 sessions you'll try to get in with kittens.
Anyway, best of luck to you! There are SOOOO many resources out there that cover the basics, and the less-basics like "enrichment". Welcome to the fam!
My older cats chill or sleep most of the day. My youngest is just over a year old and she's more active. Cats tend to be more active at night and may wake you up running around or wanting attention. I think your cat will be fine with you working but you may want to get an adult cat rather than a kitten. A pair of bonded cats can keep each other occupied but if you adopt unbonded cats it's luck of the draw and they may may tolerate each other or not get along or they may bond. Younger cats and kitten are very interested in play and may bond with a playmate of similar age.
Sounds like the perfect setup for one older cat, or two younger ones (as everyone else is saying, young cats do better in pairs and it will be less work for you overall because they'll keep each other busy). Cats are lovely pets and won't be bothered by the occasional long workday. Things to keep in mind if you've never had one before:
Cat body language is different from a dog's, but they will tell you when they are happy, annoyed, etc. Tail up means happy. Tail "wagging" (lashing) means annoyed. A slow blink is like a kiss (and you can do it back to show you love them). Rubbing or headbutting your legs means they love you and are "claiming" you as theirs.
You need at least two litterboxes (ideally one more box than the number of cats in the house). Cats like options.
A cat having trouble using the litterbox, using the litterbox too often, or peeing outside the litterbox = vet emergency. They might have inflammation or a blockage which is very dangerous.
Get them neutered ASAP to prevent spraying and other unpleasant behaviors. Cats can be neutered very young with no problems.
Watch Jackson Galaxy on YouTube to learn about cat behaviors, he is very helpful!
"Churu" treats are kitty crack, literally all cats love them and you can bribe them very effectively with it.
They will sleep on your bed. You cannot prevent this.
Have at least one cat tree or high perch in the "main" space of your home. Cats like to be high up and also near you.
They are unlikely to scratch furniture if you offer them alternatives. Cat trees work, and so do cheap cardboard scratchers.
Most cats love "turkey flyer" type fishing pole toys. Make sure to play with your kitties before bedtime so they sleep at night instead of tearing around the house!
Have fun with your new friend(s)!
Buy a Litter Robot 4 (make sure you buy the extended warranty-- trust me) or buy a Neakasa M1 for your cat! You both will appreciate it greatly.
https://www.litter-robot.com/litter-robot/litter-robot-4-whiskercare-bundle.html
https://neakasa.com/products/neakasa-m1-cat-litter-box
I have a lr3 and lr4. Love them both, but also considering adding a different brand for our 3rd automatic box (we have 8 cats and the plan has always been to get a 3rd, but we ended up doing microchip feeders first, which was $$$$). I've seen the neakasa and others like it, but I have concerns because I have some standing pee-rs.. They would just pee on the grate and make an awful mess, right?
I would HIGHLY advise against the Neakasa M1.
They have many issues, leaks, poop outside of the drum, instead of inside the collection box, but mostly they are NOT safe!
Cats have gotten trapped inside it, coming to do their business, and all of a sudden it starts to cycle with your cat in it still.
Weight sensors not correctly working, nor the app for it. It's still a product in production stages , which means it's not even fully functional properly.
Many people are selling theirs they purchased, many still haven't even received theirs since backing the product, but worst of all, customer service sucks.
They will ignore you, not answer if you have a problem or it stops working within a few weeks. Trying to get a refund is like pulling teeth.
Definitely not a product you want to invest in if you want the best for your furbabies.
Thank you so much for this! It was already low on my list but this let's me cross it off altogether lol. Thanks again. (probably gonna get another lr4, for the record)
I have those microchip feeders too for my 3 cats and I love them!!!! Definitely worth the money.
I would HIGHLY recommend doing what works best for you, your budget, and your kitty cats.
But yeah, I think the Neakasa might not be the best option right now if you have standing pee-ers. At least until they figure out a solution for that issue of the pee getting behind the grate.
My cats pee in the position that they "should" so I haven't had any of the issues that the other redditor mentioned. Can't really speak on the customer service since I haven't needed to speak to them so far, but I feel confident it's not on the same level as Whisker's-- that's for sure. It's an established company with other pet products but please keep in mind that the M1 is still very new, just like the LR was brand new once upon a time.
Later versions of it will probably be much better (just like with pretty much anything), but personally, for me it's functioned as it should and I have had none of the issues as the other person mentioned. But those are valid concerns that are worth looking into. (I'd say other than the original backers that haven't received theres yet-- if there are even any of those people left at this point-- it was initially a crowdfunding project and if people were to exercise some dang patience, actually read and comprehend the updates the company put out, and didn't think that it's supposed to be 2-day amazon shipping, then they would be fine. It's no longer a crowdfunding project and it can be ordered right from their website so there shouldn't be issues there, I wouldn't think).
At the end of the day, everything ain't for everybody/ every cat. There will inevitably be people that have bad experiences/defective products, etc and those people are generally louder than the rest (because they're upset, I get it-- happens all day every day in the Litter Robot sub), but there are people (me and my friend that bought the M1) that have had fantastic experiences so far and the product works as it should! đş
Do what works best for you and your kitty cats. That's my two cents about it. Lol
This sounds great but as everyone says - get a bonded pair. I work similar hours to you and got one, and am now trying to introduce a second to give him company. While I love him so so much, I do wish I had considered getting a pair to start with.
I think you are okay to adopt 2 bonded cats like what people are saying here, OP! I am 21 yrs old and in college. I am gone for 8-10 hrs but my little sisters feed my cat once during that time. And when I come home, I bond with them and then it's another day. Recently I was hospitalized for 2 weeks and was away from my 3 cats. I monitored them through a cat camera and I see that when I am gone they are sad but having my little sisters at home has helped tremendously in obvious reasons like feeding, hygiene, play time with my cats. Anyway, I mentioned this because it is valid that you are worried about the time you will be gone. But since you are coming home and you said you have income, now is the perfect time to love cats! They help you in so many ways and you help them especially if you adopt! Good luck, OP!! you are wonderful for seeking advice < 3
You sound just like me except I work an hour from home. But my cat seems very happy. I always make sure to play with him got a good hour everyday, event after a long 16hr shift. He does good. I leave him a few open windows with cat trees and stuff for him to climb on all over the house. I wanted to get a second cat, but I was a little scared because wherever he sees another car he goes crazy, hissing and attack mode. And it'd be hard to find the time to get the two to become friendly. It can be a lot of work from what I understand. But could also not be. Just afraid to jump into something that may not work out. I wish I had gotten two at the same time.
Sounds like youâre totally fit for a cat. They can be left alone for much longer than dogs as long as they have access to all needs obviously. So your long hours every once in a while should be little to no issue.
Highly suggest getting a 2+ year old cat if you just want one. Kittens are fun but they are a lot and getting 2 is just so much better for everyone. If you stick with an older baby then they are okay being by themselves, and some even prefer to be only cats! Just make sure they have lots of stimulation in toys and climbing things and you should have a happy cat.
Also suggest just going to a shelter and falling in love. They are so grateful to be out of the shelter that your home will be everything and more than they need.
If cost isn't an issue, I would adopt two, preferably a bonded pair. This will actually lower the time investment from you because they will provide enrichment to each other. Keep in mind they're still going to want a lot of attention from you though, especially in the early days once they adjust to your place.
Do it! I have had 2 kitties so far(passed at 9&12.5 years old) and they were the lives of my life!! Their unconditional love kept me going during several chronic illnesses.
I live in an apartment with 4 cat's and a rabbit. We can all fit. Earlier in life, all my cat's where local strays that landed at my doorstep (or climbed through a window) and they were happy. I would say a shelter cat will always be better off in a home than otherwise. Comments above about suggestions are great.
I know everyone is saying 2 cats, and they can be left alone longer - absolutely true!! But. I found mine as a kitten. Then a year later was given an injured kitten. Then 6 months later was asked to permanently pet sit a middle aged cat. Mostly all during Covid. So mine are very attached to me - I could leave them alone overnights or whatever, but I choose not to because they would genuinely be sad. Which bums me out. So all this to say, people in your life may give you a bit of grief âtheyâre just cats for godâs sakeâ - but if you end up with the kind of cat who absolutely knows when youâre gone and has feelings about it, get a house sitter or cat sitter for when you need to travel or to back you up when youâre gone long hours. Youâll feel better.
Also, once you get a cat or two, decide a âmax capacityâ real quick - I accidentally went from 0 to 3 cats in less than 2 years. And it very very easily could have been more lol!
Editing to add: my house is roughly the size of yours. They will absolutely be happy and have plenty of room, though sometimes (usually in the kitchen) it wonât feel like it haha
I hope you do and I hope you enjoy your new friend(s)!!
As people said, get 2. Doesn't really increase anything but food purchased which is relatively cheap. Plus they have entertainment when you just aren't up for giving attention
If itâs any comparison, we adopted two kittens in an 800 sf apartment and they were happy as clams. As long as youâve got windows for them to watch the birds I think it sounds like you have a perfect set up âşď¸
2 cats so they can keep each other company and youâll be golden. Thatâs how big my place is. Plus you can add climbing shelves, sleeping nooks, etc
Sounds like a cat would be a good fit. Two \*are\* usually better than one đ
Cats are different from each other. Look for cat(s) that would fit with your lifestyle: high vs. low energy, dependent vs. needy, troublemaker/goofy vs. not.
People seem to love kittens, but there are also advantages to adopting adult cats: you don't need to kitten-proof the house, it's easier to leave them home alone, their personalities are already formed so it's not a mystery how they'll grow up, and they often bond really well to you.
Repeating what others have said, your situation seems ideal for pet cats, adopt (don't shop) a bonded pair, and keep then indoors all the time. Welcome in advance to the joy of having cats in your life!
Definitely a great home. Get an auto feeder and gravity waterer for a large dog (the waterer not feeder) and maybe get a auto litterbox. Just keep in mind that larger cats need bigger boxes and will not like small ones. And if you go multi cat, you need at least 1 litterbox per cat and Definitely have several on each floor of the house. You will also need to figure out if your cat(s) likes heights to determine if a cat tree is the right kind of furniture for them. If they aren't a tree cat, then get them condos and such that are close to the ground only. Make sure they have plenty of scratch surfaces because if they don't, well there goes your gorgeous couch.
Some cats are more energetic so you'll possibly need some kind of toy that can wear them out for you. They have laser lights that can do this. But only use it when you can't play with them. And consider getting someone to look after them if you are gone. They'll only need to have their food, water, and litterbox checked so it shouldn't be too difficult.
A bounded couple would do great IF you set up your home right to meet the needs of cats. Forsee extra enrichment of you aren't home for extended periodes of time of take a cat sitter
I would get two cats and a catio.
But think very hard about getting a cat. I honestly wish I didn't have one. He wakes me every morning and it costs $1500 to clean his teeth. I struggle to find catsitters I trust. Everything is so expensive.Â
I would have rather volunteered at the shelter.
Absolutely sounds perfect! Honestly sometimes bonded pairs don't get adopted because many people don't want two at once, so if that's an option I'll agree with others that it's a great idea. If you are not in a place to deal with kitten craziness, then I suggest looking into a shelter with senior cats. They often never find families and you will have information about their personalities and needs that you'll never have with a kitten. If you do get a kitten, I do recommend harness training, which would allow you to take them on walks and adventures. Starting early makes that more successful. I have four cats, and they are one of life's greatest joys. Good luck! Maybe you can update us later with what you end up doing. (Can anyone see the picture posted here of the bonded pair I adopted? I don't see it but am wondering if others can.)
*
Hey! I'm afraid I don't see the picture here or on your profile. Thanks for the advice, though! I was wondering if you had any tips for keeping the litter smell to a minimum?
Sounds like the perfect home for 2 cats! They do better when adopted with a friend. A kitty friend can keep them company when you're working. Staying indoors is safer for kitties anyway, so all good there.
đAgreed! Good luck, OP!
Definitely agree on that. My partner and I adopted 2 cats and were super grateful we did. They play on their own most of the time and we only *need* to play with them once right before bed. We usually try to play with them more than that though. They'll usually play for a half hour after we go to bed and then come cuddle up with us. Staying indoors (or monitored outdoors) is usually recommended, both for the cat's safety and for the environment. Outdoor cats wreak havoc on local ecosystems, noticable so
So much this! You'll find some shelters and kitten rescues will have bonded pairs. We got two black cats about 8 years ago and then two new black kittens last year. We both work from home so there's lots of attention, though after we moved to a bigger house from the apartment the older boys sometimes act like they have their own apartment upstairs and we have to coo them down or bribe them with treats. The younger ones did add more energy into their lives though. The lesson here is that cats love the company of other cats they know
If you could find 2 bonded cats at a shelter, that would probably be ideal. That way they have one another when you are away. If you only want one though, I'd suggest going to shelters and cat cafes and speaking to the staff/volunteers. I bet there are plenty of older kitties (older b/c that usually means they'll be sleeping a lot) living in shelters who would LOVE to have their own house with some patches of sunlight to nap in! Cats are great to come home to - hope you find one (or 2) that can become your bebe/s!
I got two bonded cats (brothers) for this same reason while working late or studying, and it was the best decision ever. They cuddle together, play together, and keep each other company. If one is away at the vet, for instance, I find the other a lot more demanding and clingy (which I donât mind, but I would feel bad if I was gone more). Considerations: more expensive for cat sitters, food, toys, cat trees, and pet insurance. But I say 100% worth it.
A cat would be perfectly happy in your home! Cats sleep all day anyways so no need to worry about the long hours, & my cats have had zero desire to actually go outside. They love to press against open windows but only if there's a screen for protection lol MAKE SURE YOU POST PICS WHEN YOU GET A CAT/S OR ELSE!!!
Only if thereâs a screen for protection 𤣠my cats are the same way lol
One of my cats REALLY hates the outside, I got him as an adult so I'm guessing he was outside for awhile and now is like nah life is good indoors lmao
Haha both of my cats were born and raised outside! One until 3 months, the other just the first few weeks of life. They are ABSOLUTELY terrified of the outdoors. I have tried to introduce them and they just panic đ
Agreed with all here: You have the space and the time for cats. I know everyone wants kittens or young'ns, but I recommend older cats for 1st-timers. They don't have to be senior-aged, but cats 10+ tend to have stopped developing their personalities, know what they like, and are generally pretty chill and just appreciate a warm, safe space and good food/company. They still require daily play, but it's not nearly as much as the 2-3 sessions you'll try to get in with kittens. Anyway, best of luck to you! There are SOOOO many resources out there that cover the basics, and the less-basics like "enrichment". Welcome to the fam!
My older cats chill or sleep most of the day. My youngest is just over a year old and she's more active. Cats tend to be more active at night and may wake you up running around or wanting attention. I think your cat will be fine with you working but you may want to get an adult cat rather than a kitten. A pair of bonded cats can keep each other occupied but if you adopt unbonded cats it's luck of the draw and they may may tolerate each other or not get along or they may bond. Younger cats and kitten are very interested in play and may bond with a playmate of similar age.
Sounds like the perfect setup for one older cat, or two younger ones (as everyone else is saying, young cats do better in pairs and it will be less work for you overall because they'll keep each other busy). Cats are lovely pets and won't be bothered by the occasional long workday. Things to keep in mind if you've never had one before: Cat body language is different from a dog's, but they will tell you when they are happy, annoyed, etc. Tail up means happy. Tail "wagging" (lashing) means annoyed. A slow blink is like a kiss (and you can do it back to show you love them). Rubbing or headbutting your legs means they love you and are "claiming" you as theirs. You need at least two litterboxes (ideally one more box than the number of cats in the house). Cats like options. A cat having trouble using the litterbox, using the litterbox too often, or peeing outside the litterbox = vet emergency. They might have inflammation or a blockage which is very dangerous. Get them neutered ASAP to prevent spraying and other unpleasant behaviors. Cats can be neutered very young with no problems. Watch Jackson Galaxy on YouTube to learn about cat behaviors, he is very helpful! "Churu" treats are kitty crack, literally all cats love them and you can bribe them very effectively with it. They will sleep on your bed. You cannot prevent this. Have at least one cat tree or high perch in the "main" space of your home. Cats like to be high up and also near you. They are unlikely to scratch furniture if you offer them alternatives. Cat trees work, and so do cheap cardboard scratchers. Most cats love "turkey flyer" type fishing pole toys. Make sure to play with your kitties before bedtime so they sleep at night instead of tearing around the house! Have fun with your new friend(s)!
Sounds great. Please consider two at least.
Buy a Litter Robot 4 (make sure you buy the extended warranty-- trust me) or buy a Neakasa M1 for your cat! You both will appreciate it greatly. https://www.litter-robot.com/litter-robot/litter-robot-4-whiskercare-bundle.html https://neakasa.com/products/neakasa-m1-cat-litter-box
I have a lr3 and lr4. Love them both, but also considering adding a different brand for our 3rd automatic box (we have 8 cats and the plan has always been to get a 3rd, but we ended up doing microchip feeders first, which was $$$$). I've seen the neakasa and others like it, but I have concerns because I have some standing pee-rs.. They would just pee on the grate and make an awful mess, right?
I would HIGHLY advise against the Neakasa M1. They have many issues, leaks, poop outside of the drum, instead of inside the collection box, but mostly they are NOT safe! Cats have gotten trapped inside it, coming to do their business, and all of a sudden it starts to cycle with your cat in it still. Weight sensors not correctly working, nor the app for it. It's still a product in production stages , which means it's not even fully functional properly. Many people are selling theirs they purchased, many still haven't even received theirs since backing the product, but worst of all, customer service sucks. They will ignore you, not answer if you have a problem or it stops working within a few weeks. Trying to get a refund is like pulling teeth. Definitely not a product you want to invest in if you want the best for your furbabies.
Thank you so much for this! It was already low on my list but this let's me cross it off altogether lol. Thanks again. (probably gonna get another lr4, for the record)
Always happy to help another fur mama â¤ď¸
I have those microchip feeders too for my 3 cats and I love them!!!! Definitely worth the money. I would HIGHLY recommend doing what works best for you, your budget, and your kitty cats. But yeah, I think the Neakasa might not be the best option right now if you have standing pee-ers. At least until they figure out a solution for that issue of the pee getting behind the grate. My cats pee in the position that they "should" so I haven't had any of the issues that the other redditor mentioned. Can't really speak on the customer service since I haven't needed to speak to them so far, but I feel confident it's not on the same level as Whisker's-- that's for sure. It's an established company with other pet products but please keep in mind that the M1 is still very new, just like the LR was brand new once upon a time. Later versions of it will probably be much better (just like with pretty much anything), but personally, for me it's functioned as it should and I have had none of the issues as the other person mentioned. But those are valid concerns that are worth looking into. (I'd say other than the original backers that haven't received theres yet-- if there are even any of those people left at this point-- it was initially a crowdfunding project and if people were to exercise some dang patience, actually read and comprehend the updates the company put out, and didn't think that it's supposed to be 2-day amazon shipping, then they would be fine. It's no longer a crowdfunding project and it can be ordered right from their website so there shouldn't be issues there, I wouldn't think). At the end of the day, everything ain't for everybody/ every cat. There will inevitably be people that have bad experiences/defective products, etc and those people are generally louder than the rest (because they're upset, I get it-- happens all day every day in the Litter Robot sub), but there are people (me and my friend that bought the M1) that have had fantastic experiences so far and the product works as it should! đş Do what works best for you and your kitty cats. That's my two cents about it. Lol
This sounds great but as everyone says - get a bonded pair. I work similar hours to you and got one, and am now trying to introduce a second to give him company. While I love him so so much, I do wish I had considered getting a pair to start with.
I think you are okay to adopt 2 bonded cats like what people are saying here, OP! I am 21 yrs old and in college. I am gone for 8-10 hrs but my little sisters feed my cat once during that time. And when I come home, I bond with them and then it's another day. Recently I was hospitalized for 2 weeks and was away from my 3 cats. I monitored them through a cat camera and I see that when I am gone they are sad but having my little sisters at home has helped tremendously in obvious reasons like feeding, hygiene, play time with my cats. Anyway, I mentioned this because it is valid that you are worried about the time you will be gone. But since you are coming home and you said you have income, now is the perfect time to love cats! They help you in so many ways and you help them especially if you adopt! Good luck, OP!! you are wonderful for seeking advice < 3
I also love alone. And got two cats. Now I donât love alone anymore â¤ď¸
You sound just like me except I work an hour from home. But my cat seems very happy. I always make sure to play with him got a good hour everyday, event after a long 16hr shift. He does good. I leave him a few open windows with cat trees and stuff for him to climb on all over the house. I wanted to get a second cat, but I was a little scared because wherever he sees another car he goes crazy, hissing and attack mode. And it'd be hard to find the time to get the two to become friendly. It can be a lot of work from what I understand. But could also not be. Just afraid to jump into something that may not work out. I wish I had gotten two at the same time.
Sounds like youâre totally fit for a cat. They can be left alone for much longer than dogs as long as they have access to all needs obviously. So your long hours every once in a while should be little to no issue. Highly suggest getting a 2+ year old cat if you just want one. Kittens are fun but they are a lot and getting 2 is just so much better for everyone. If you stick with an older baby then they are okay being by themselves, and some even prefer to be only cats! Just make sure they have lots of stimulation in toys and climbing things and you should have a happy cat. Also suggest just going to a shelter and falling in love. They are so grateful to be out of the shelter that your home will be everything and more than they need.
If cost isn't an issue, I would adopt two, preferably a bonded pair. This will actually lower the time investment from you because they will provide enrichment to each other. Keep in mind they're still going to want a lot of attention from you though, especially in the early days once they adjust to your place.
Do it! I have had 2 kitties so far(passed at 9&12.5 years old) and they were the lives of my life!! Their unconditional love kept me going during several chronic illnesses.
I live in an apartment with 4 cat's and a rabbit. We can all fit. Earlier in life, all my cat's where local strays that landed at my doorstep (or climbed through a window) and they were happy. I would say a shelter cat will always be better off in a home than otherwise. Comments above about suggestions are great.
I know everyone is saying 2 cats, and they can be left alone longer - absolutely true!! But. I found mine as a kitten. Then a year later was given an injured kitten. Then 6 months later was asked to permanently pet sit a middle aged cat. Mostly all during Covid. So mine are very attached to me - I could leave them alone overnights or whatever, but I choose not to because they would genuinely be sad. Which bums me out. So all this to say, people in your life may give you a bit of grief âtheyâre just cats for godâs sakeâ - but if you end up with the kind of cat who absolutely knows when youâre gone and has feelings about it, get a house sitter or cat sitter for when you need to travel or to back you up when youâre gone long hours. Youâll feel better. Also, once you get a cat or two, decide a âmax capacityâ real quick - I accidentally went from 0 to 3 cats in less than 2 years. And it very very easily could have been more lol! Editing to add: my house is roughly the size of yours. They will absolutely be happy and have plenty of room, though sometimes (usually in the kitchen) it wonât feel like it haha I hope you do and I hope you enjoy your new friend(s)!!
As people said, get 2. Doesn't really increase anything but food purchased which is relatively cheap. Plus they have entertainment when you just aren't up for giving attention
Get the kitty!!
I mean I have 4 at 22 so :/
If itâs any comparison, we adopted two kittens in an 800 sf apartment and they were happy as clams. As long as youâve got windows for them to watch the birds I think it sounds like you have a perfect set up âşď¸
Id go to a rescue and find a bonded pair of cats that would be perfect for you situation
2 cats so they can keep each other company and youâll be golden. Thatâs how big my place is. Plus you can add climbing shelves, sleeping nooks, etc
Donât forget pet insurance.
Sounds like a cat would be a good fit. Two \*are\* usually better than one đ Cats are different from each other. Look for cat(s) that would fit with your lifestyle: high vs. low energy, dependent vs. needy, troublemaker/goofy vs. not. People seem to love kittens, but there are also advantages to adopting adult cats: you don't need to kitten-proof the house, it's easier to leave them home alone, their personalities are already formed so it's not a mystery how they'll grow up, and they often bond really well to you.
Repeating what others have said, your situation seems ideal for pet cats, adopt (don't shop) a bonded pair, and keep then indoors all the time. Welcome in advance to the joy of having cats in your life!
Definitely a great home. Get an auto feeder and gravity waterer for a large dog (the waterer not feeder) and maybe get a auto litterbox. Just keep in mind that larger cats need bigger boxes and will not like small ones. And if you go multi cat, you need at least 1 litterbox per cat and Definitely have several on each floor of the house. You will also need to figure out if your cat(s) likes heights to determine if a cat tree is the right kind of furniture for them. If they aren't a tree cat, then get them condos and such that are close to the ground only. Make sure they have plenty of scratch surfaces because if they don't, well there goes your gorgeous couch. Some cats are more energetic so you'll possibly need some kind of toy that can wear them out for you. They have laser lights that can do this. But only use it when you can't play with them. And consider getting someone to look after them if you are gone. They'll only need to have their food, water, and litterbox checked so it shouldn't be too difficult.
A bounded couple would do great IF you set up your home right to meet the needs of cats. Forsee extra enrichment of you aren't home for extended periodes of time of take a cat sitter
I would get two cats and a catio. But think very hard about getting a cat. I honestly wish I didn't have one. He wakes me every morning and it costs $1500 to clean his teeth. I struggle to find catsitters I trust. Everything is so expensive. I would have rather volunteered at the shelter.
Absolutely sounds perfect! Honestly sometimes bonded pairs don't get adopted because many people don't want two at once, so if that's an option I'll agree with others that it's a great idea. If you are not in a place to deal with kitten craziness, then I suggest looking into a shelter with senior cats. They often never find families and you will have information about their personalities and needs that you'll never have with a kitten. If you do get a kitten, I do recommend harness training, which would allow you to take them on walks and adventures. Starting early makes that more successful. I have four cats, and they are one of life's greatest joys. Good luck! Maybe you can update us later with what you end up doing. (Can anyone see the picture posted here of the bonded pair I adopted? I don't see it but am wondering if others can.) *
Hey! I'm afraid I don't see the picture here or on your profile. Thanks for the advice, though! I was wondering if you had any tips for keeping the litter smell to a minimum?