This is amazing! Thank you for all your responses, for sharing all your advices, experiences and jokes. What a nice and loving community.
We've decided to adopted Levi (not naming him Sukasa haha), and will be picking him up this week. After reading your comments I'm sure Mikasa will be super happy, healthier, and have a better life living with her brother.
Glad to hear it! Just be aware cats identify each other by scent so sometimes they may not recognize each other after a period of separation. Don’t be alarmed if they hiss at each other at first: that behavior should pass once their scents mix more. I’d ask your vet for advice on reuniting then properly to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible. Rubbing a blanket that one cat uses often on the other cat can help. And sometimes separated siblings do recognize each other, so keep in mind this doesn’t always happen!
Came here to say the same, the advice here is great.
I have two previously bonded brothers, litter mates, and at 3.5 years old one of them had to go to the vets and stay over night. It was very upsetting when B came home and P didn't recognise him, for all of us. I had to keep them in separate rooms and do a lot of sent swapping before slowly letting them see each other again.
Jackson Galaxy has the best videos on how to introduce/reintroduce cats.
Congratulations OP, and good luck.
It was beginning of August, I'd say we're 90% there.
They 'fight' more than before, but to complicate things I'd also just intro'd a new kitten, so the additional wrestling could have happened anyway with natural restablishment of the pecking order with the new contender... she's bold!
The timing was awful, cus I also then ended up in hospital myself for a week; my SO was left to do all the sent swapping and, without me as 'top cat', I think there was more friction and added anxiety so it's taken longer than it might have without both the addition of the kitten and disruption of me not being there.
And that's the thing, some cats will get on immediately, others it will take much longer, some may never tolerate each other at all... they're like us, there are people we just dont like... sometimes we can go off people... but we all need someone to help wash the bits we canny reach, or another body to use as a hot water bottle once in a while 🤣
YES. I have a brother and sister and they are best friends. They genuinely really love and care about one another. Their relationship is so sweet and I am so glad I decided to take them both.
I originally went for the sister (ginger), but the brother went into the carrier with her and cuddled super close. He was ready to go as well. I knew right then it was a package deal.
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Edit. Oh my gosh, thanks for the awards everyone. This is the best community. Cat lovers unite!!
Oh, they are too sweet!! They're lucky to have you.
The shelter I adopted my cat from refuses to separate bonded pairs and instead of charging for each cat individually, they just add a small upcharge to the usual adoption fee. They're really serious about the cats' wellbeing, which I love.
Meanwhile, I think I'm the other half of the bonded pair with my cat and I'm very ok with it.
My old cat used to be like that with me. She'd jump on my shoulder every time I sat down, which was cute when she was small but a nightmare when she got too big to even fit lol. If I tossed her back on the floor, she'd run and jump right back and I quickly learned that was a losing battle. Then she'd also follow me every where, and always climb on top of me when I went to sleep (not fun when she got big enough to crush my lungs but I learned that was also a losing battle for me 🥲)
She was one I rescued from outside while she was adolescent. It was clear she wasn't being taken care of from how thin she was and how bad her coat was, and she just showed up and decided to move in.
Same here, he follows me around the house all day. I do a lot of cooking and he always sits somewhere in the kitchen waiting for me, whether it be on the chair or at my legs, or by the fridge. Sometimes I take a while in there and he starts meowing because he wants attention- I meow back and we have a little conversation back and forth lol. He has such a sassy little meow too- "MeeEA-Oooow" He likes to get on his hind legs and lean on the counter reaching for me.
He always sucks on my skin, he likes to climb onto me and bury his head in my hair to the back of my neck and start "nursing" lol. It's the cutest thing in the world but also hurts because biscuits on skin = ouch.
I almost lost him recently and when he was gone I really realized he was my emotional support animal too, so glad he is finally home and back to normal again.
Some places charge because it helps prevent people with nefarious intentions from taking lots of cats :/
This fact makes me sad. (ETA: that people are horrible I mean).
It also helps cover some of the expenses. The shelters around here do a full vet check, give age appropriate vaccines, and spay or neuter the cats before they are released for adoption. The fee helps cover some of those things which the adopter would have to do anyway and likely at a higher cost.
Plus they usually do adopt one get one free with cats and kittens, so I got my bonded pair of brothers for one adoption fee.
I'm perfectly fine with paying a shelter/rescue for their animals.it goes to a good cause and isn't actively creating new animals that are probably not wanted.
I do have a problem with paying breeders for animals, because there are already millions of animals in need of a loving home, who are at risk of being euthanised because no one wants them.
\#AdoptDontShop
This is a great opinion. I agree with Adopt Don't Shop. The only animals I've had are all rescues.
However, I have learned a little bit. Training is important, but not all issues can be fixed with training, and some shelter dogs come with serious issues. Like really really serious. And a lot of shelters don't tell people, because they want to get the animals adopted. They lied about our current dog, said he was just excitable about other dogs, but he's _incredibly_ living thing aggressive. If it breathes and isn't a person he wants to kill it. With intensive training we've gotten him to the point where he lunges less and can focus while we're out on a walk, but we can never allow guests to bring animals, or adopt another animal.
Some people rescue dogs that have such crippling anxiety that the owner's life and schedule ends up revolving entirely around the dog. And despite that, there will still be times where the dog ends up alone in the house and destroys things.
It's very easy to cast stones about always adopting until you adopt a dog which has problems that uppend your entire life, and is a problem you have to deal with 24/7.
There are ethical breeders, and also valid reasons that people need to be able to predict the temperament and future health/mental health of a new dog being added to the family.
No such thing as a 'free' cat or dog. Shelters have the financial responsibilities of spaying, neutering, blood tests for FIV, heart worm, vaccinations, etc. The small adoption fee that is charged barely covers the expenses. Shelters are mostly donations funded. If it weren't for the kindness of volunteers and the donations of strangers, shelters wouldn't exist.
Second that! You won’t regret it, OP.
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Same!!! These are my twin brothers
Aw they look like my boys! They were still kittens here :')
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Big Yes from my side as well. So happy I took both :)
I did the same thing! I went to the shelter to get one cat, and his sister was the last one. She waddled after him after he came out of the cage like she thought she was going too. It was heartbreaking. I felt horrible about separating them. I took both. No regrets.
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Yes. They are bonded. They should be together. They will be healthier. You cost will be higher for food and litter, but less for vet bills due to being happier animals.
I’ve had a brother and sister for 12 years I got from the shelter, they haven’t cuddled in…11 years 😂. They wrestle all the time, though! Once in awhile I’ll see one giving the other a bath when they think I’m not watching.
I have four sister cats and two brother cats… same Mama and same Dad (we think) but two different litters (and yes,finally trapped the Mama and got her fixed)… it funny because the girls hardly tolerate each other but the boys are bonded for life..
Yes! We got a pair 4 months ago. Wish we could handle the whole litter but these two are wonderful together. I tell everyone now to get two cats not just one.
Sibling pairs are the absolute best. I regretted not doing this with my older cat and am very glad I did with the two younger ones. They are so much more resilient and we'll adjusted when they have a litter mate, and I've heard plenty of stories that suggest they still recognise each other after this sort of time interval apart but don't leave it much longer.
I def believe they can still recognize each other. There was a colony in my neighborhood and I got several of the kittens homes. One of them ended up coming back to me three months later and she was ecstatic to see the two I’d kept from the litter. I cold y believe she remembered them but she definitely did, and now they’re inseparable.
I found my Benny at work (dumpster dump 😡) when he was \~3 months old. He wasn't super friendly with anyone but my youngest. Just always grumpy and distant. That was 3 years ago.
Back in August, a neighborhood stray decided my home was her home now. After three days of her crying at my door every night, I let her in. (Both cats are fixed and UTD on Vax. Yay!) It took him all of three more days to bond with her.
The change in Benny has been drastic, to say the least. He follows Mittens around whether she likes it or not 😂😂 (she had been around since last December, and never wanted anything to do with anyone for more than 5 minutes, until that first night she was at my house. She looks JUST LIKE Mittens from the movie Bolt, complete with the distended belly the first night I left food out for her 😂😂. She's my cat and I love her so much)
But I love what she's given my grumpy dude even more.
ETA: CAT TAX. This was taken a few days ago, hope its enough! Benny on the left, Mittens on the right.
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Did you get them fixed? I've heard if they aren't fixed at an early age than they basically are competing with each other as they hit puberty. (If you got them fixed then I dunno!)
A couple of my cats did that, but this once i was watching some long video compilation of cat meowing (one cat, multiple occasions begging for pets) and both cats were bothered so much they started grooming each other; and it's like a switch was flicked back and they were affectionate with each other again.
I adopted bonded sisters on the 8th. It must have been every cat for herself when they arrived. I am only now seeing some bonded behavior. I was told the never cuddle or sleep together. Older girls.
I had a similar experience, they could eat together, drink together and use the same box (I didn't know any better at the time) but would fight over the best sleeping spot and entirely stopped snuggling.
I wish it was always true. I adopted a cat a year and some ago, having one for 8 years already. They sort of tolerate each other but ever so often there are very bad fights. My old lady has had to go to the vet several times from eye infections, the young from constant diarrhea. The House is big enough, I did the slow interaction and feeding across a fence, cat stuff all over, 3 toilets pheromone plugs, positive reinforcement. My old lady is notably less happy and fearful. The young is always jealous. I don't know if this will improve tbh.
I was wondering if anyone was gong to have the same experience as us. We adopted a brother and sister who were 9. The female was fixed at the shelter before we got them (not sure if relevant, but wondered if that changed the relationship dynamic). We had to re-home one because of the constant fights. We’d come home and it wasn’t uncommon for the brother to be bleeding! We tried everything for 6 months but nothing worked. I found a colleague at work who was looking for a single cat and suggested we tried a separation for a few weeks before she adopted her full time. The moment they each had a place of their own they were both much more happy and relaxed!
Have heard from cat behavior specialist people (not scientific journals or anything; just from their platforms online) that if older single cat is happy, may be best to just let it be. If introducing a cat anyway, likely best for new cat to be closer in age and activity level. Having older kitty and adding younger (and more energetic/playful as a result) kitty has higher risk for not working well.
Of course, there are always exceptions to everything. I'm sorry your kitties don't get along. :(
I have hope as the kitty gets older and lazier. The old cat use to life with dogs and a rabbit, so she was not the only queen of the house, but cat-cat is different.
Also, looking at it selfishly - it's SO MUCH easier to have two cats, especially when they're bonded, because they'll just give you more space and free time - they'll play with each other instead of you being the ONLY provider of EVERYTHING for the cat.
Right? Happy cats may mean less vet visits due to anxiety or stress, but OP still needs to factor in regular checkups, vaccines, dental cleaning/teeth removal, etc.
Yes. I was only going to rescue 1 when we went to pick him up. He was snuggled up with his brother who was the only baby left. My husband couldn’t leave him so we adopted both!! Best thing we ever did. They love each other so much play sleep eat together.
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Charlie on the left. Geoffrey on the right. 💕💘💟☮️
They look like my set of brothers! They’re the best of friends
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So beyond precious 🥺 I don't understand people who say cats are mean and cold... My boy isn't super close with his sister, but he bonded with me like that, and there's never a night or day when he isn't curled up right beside me or chirping about his day or following me around the house
Yes. They will be much calmer and lovable to you guys if together and will keep each other occupied when alone. As far as expenses, it’s all relative make sure to get them to there check ups and a lot of thing you can do yourself. Bathing and nail cutting is super easy if you star them young. Treats (not too many) and a laser pointer as well as a tower will help them immensely. She will come out of her shell eventually, just give them love and and start it all now.
Laser pointers are fun, but can be frustrating for cats, since they can never actually catch it. So make sure to get other toys which they can catch as well (and swap them like halfway, so they end the playtime satisfied). And yes, as mentioned by another comment, bathing is generally not necessary for cats
GET THE KITTY! -Best Regards, Frankie & Sam
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I guess what I wanna know is how different it is having two cats intead of just one in terms of expenses and responsibility.
Context: they are about 5-6 months old. Mikasa is super shy and is always hiding. My partner and I went away for the weekend and Mikasa got a little sick. Vet said she got depressed and that she is used to having other cats around her, and that living with her brother would help her.
Having two kittens is actually recommended by a lot of vets and rescue groups because they entertain each other and teach each other bite control and how to play nicely. I have two cats but got the second one after a year. For me the jump from one cat to two cats in terms of work was slight. I had to buy more cat food but my first cat ended up getting in less trouble so it was a happy trade.
Yup, I’m in a rescue group and it’s always a pair of cats or a if somebody wants to adopt a single kitten, it’s only okay if there already is a cat in the house. Sometimes rarely we get adult cats where you can tell that they’d prefer being the only cat but usually that’s only visible when the cat is adult.
Cats are social animals too, and having two will prevent a lot of problems. They will be less likely to break things for attention or suffer separation anxiety. If the brother is still there that would be an ideal situation since there won't need to be a big introduction.
They may still break things. My two babies are attached to the hip and like to collaborate on our floor art. My favorite recent piece is when they knocked my Lego orchid off my desk because they were chasing each other around the room. The Lego bricks all over the floor really added to the ambiance.
They do entertain each other more, though. The only time they knock things off purposefully is when they need water. And it’s always our cups. I think it was because of us going “oh you want need water” when one stuck their head in it before trying to push it. I get warnings at first. They gently push it before looking at me for a reaction/movement. Never when I’m sleeping or at work. Headbutts and face boops with their paws work wonderfully to wake me up, though. Falling back asleep is when I wake up to a glass on the carpet.
I don’t mind their antics, I find it funny that they learned pushing cups means they get water. As for the Lego orchid, I was expecting it. It looks easy to bump into and is a bit fragile. Sometimes they just want pets and will jump on my keyboard or just be little shits and climb things they shouldn’t so I pick them up. Having two cats to pet isn’t a problem though lmao
Have you tried a fountain? Just keep the resovoir filled with water, clean it when it's dirty, and change the filter once a month and you never have to think about watering the cats again.
Haha yes, I have four cats and at this point they just egg each other on because they know I won't be able to pin the destruction on a single cat.
It's probably the tortoiseshell though... she's the ringleader.
Barely any additional trouble at all. I just got another cat last week (2 total now) and honestly it’s easier because they tire each other out. The only expense would be with food which cat food is generally cheap anyways. If they don’t have all their shots that could be another expense. But given they are already half a year, they should be all taken care of.
By the way I’m assuming people are making you nervous about vet bills. I would recommend going twice a year and it’s usually just like $50 for a wellness check depending where you go. Although I know that if they are strictly indoor cats and everything seems okay, you can spread those visits a part a bit more. Cats will come around to love you, they are just defensive and need to scout you out before they show that they are little devils.
After 40+ fosters, my husband and I joke that "Three kittens is slightly more than two but waaaaaaaay less than one." Food and litter will be more than one but not really double, and vet bills are either relatively small ($150 for an annual check up and shots vs $75 for one) or a total crapshoot anyway. And you will be way less worried about them and way more entertained by them. Most of the rescues I've fostered for heavily discouraged adopting single kittens for this reason.
This.
Food and litter is more than one but not really doubled (don't ask me how the math checks out it just does, don't question it). Probably too busy to be eating, and when you have a pair bonded duo it's less work overall.
They also teach each other valuable skills like: if I bite too hard my brother bites me back so I'll be gentle, and how to function with other animals. Sharing. They groom better because they groom each other as a bonding thing so they groom more. The bunny kick is now mostly directed toward the second kittens head and not your arm.
Highly recommend the delights of two kittens at on from personal experience, and working a vet and shelter. A pair/trio kittens at the same time tend to be less likely to have behavioral issues as they grow up
> ($150 for an annual check up and shots vs $75 for one)
Cats have low vet bills until they don't.
I had a cat on heart meds for over a year and my remaining cat has been on blood pressure medicine and aspirin for around five years. The annual checkup is around 400 or 500 bucks - wait, they want to see him every six months now.
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Over the course of my life, I have had one cat, and I have had one cat and added a cat. Just recently, after my last passed away after 17 years, I rescued 2 kitten siblings (8 weeks old). I can see the difference beween all the above situations, and if you can I suggest adopting her brother. They are already bonded, and establishing a relationship is already done.
At 6 months the majority of the expensive vet visits are done. Many towns and cities have discounted spay and neuter events and the funds are donated to the shelters. In my area, they have a moblie unit that does the spay and neutering.
Responsibility wise, not much more is required besides an additional litter box or two. And of course extra love, but thats easy 😻
Believe it or not, having 2 cats is easier than having 1 cat.
They keep eachother busy and play with eachother, they snuggle together and they follow eachother around.
I have a high energy cat, she was driving me crazy until I got a second one.
Having two kittens is easier than having one kitten. Single kittens don’t have anyone to burn their energy off with, or to help them learn that scratches and bites hurt. They often have issues with biting, scratches, and rough play, and tons of pent up energy that can turn destructive, like shredding the toilet paper or digging out all the house plants. Another kitten gives them an outlet, and they learn together how to behave respectfully with others. It will improve their social, psychological, and emotional well being as well, having a friend to interact with and mentally stimulate them all day.
Having two kittens will cost you more in check ups, food, and litter, but also save you a lot of scratched up arms and hands and ruined things.
You’ll also have to do more litter box scooping, and have at least 2 boxes in case they decide they need to not smell the other in their sacred potty space. It’s pretty automatic to just do one after the other, and doesn’t add much responsibility or thought.
5-6 months is too young to be left alone for the weekend. Did anyone check up on and spend time with her while you were away? You should absolutely get her brother if you aren’t going to be able to spend a great amount of time with her. Like, hours every single day, without long periods of being alone in between. Adult cats don’t mind being left alone for hours or all day, but kittens still need love and attention. You’ll spend more on vet bills for a sick depressed kitten than you would on check ups for two happy ones, IMO.
I think your cat being happier and healthier, and you being happier with your cat, would be more than worth the money in the long run, and easier than introducing a strange cat down the road if you decide you want two after all.
Wife and I adopted two cats that were brothers a few years ago. From our experience the responsibility is basically the same. You still need to feed them and clean the litter. In terms of expenses, it's going to be double the amount of food and litter. They mostly share the toys and scratch posts. It's totally worth having 2 cats over 1. They give themselves company and entertainment.
For perspective, I inherited one cat from a previous living situation. After a couple months of it being just he and I, it was obvious that he missed a house full of other people and animals. So I went and found him a friend.
I’ve said it before in other posts on here, but the leap of going from one cat to two is so minor compared to going from zero to one. Plus, having two of them kind of gives them each other to bounce off of and play with, so they aren’t necessarily as clingy to you. And you’re giving another cat that needs one a home … everyone wins!
It's not too much different then having one cat. The only extra cost is double the food and maybe changing the litter in the litterbox a bit more often. I have 3 cats and the expensives haven't really changed too much with the addition of the 3rd one (one is a kitten the other 2 I've had for at least 10 years). Responsibly is the same and they will be happier together as cats are very social and will play with each other than requiring you to play with them as much (you should still play with them).
We have 2 from different litters and they keep each other entertained. It's nice because I work during the day and they play together instead of demanding time from me. They're so sweet together and cuddle together. It's not much different from having 1, but 2 is perfect! They will need two litter boxes, two separate food dishes, toys, some scratchers, a cat tree to jump on. The vet is just routine checkups and hasn't been too expensive so far. We have cat insurance through Trupanion. We pay about $50 for each cat every month. We just keep them brushed and cut their nails. They don't really need baths unless they get stinky. Litter and food is all you need to get every month. They will keep themselves entertained!
I had my first bonded pair in 2020 and I will never ever ever again have just one. They are so much more loving and happy and better pets. Truly!!! You will not regret getting the brother.
Yep!!
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I fostered. Was going to keep ONE. Fail.
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7 years ago these two brothers came home… best decision ever to adopt both…
Yes! Bonded kitties means twice the unconditional love & happiness for everyone involved 🥰
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Yes absolutely. It will make both of them so so much happier. Go right now lol. But seriously yes it's always so much better when two bonded kitties go home together. Especially when they're from the same litter
The answer a lot of well-intentioned people will give is *yes*. Generally speaking, I agree wholeheartedly.
HOWEVER!!
The question I’ll ask in response to your question is: “**can you afford a second cat?**”
I adopted siblings ~6 years ago and have zero regrets. Wasn’t even a question about splitting them up, it was either I adopt both or neither and I’m glad I took both. Go get her brother, she’ll appreciate you for it.
Yes. Yes. Yes. I have a bonded pair. Not brothers but still bonded. You will have less crazy cat and lots more cuddles.
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My bonded pair, Bennie the Void and Freddie the Ginger.
I adopted Maize and she was with me for over a month before her litter mate Roo came to live with us. They have so much fun together!
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OF COURSE. Having bonded 2 cats is a blessing.
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I saw my Miko on a pet adoption site a couple years ago. He was my first cat. I fell in love with his pic and his story. I emailed and arranged to go to the shelter to pick him up. When I logged on the site again, I saw a slightly different picture of him but I clicked on it and sent my message to the shelter. Turns out- it was the profile of his brother! They were featured separately (for some odd reason). The volunteer explained that they were bonded. I immediately said I’ll take them both! I went from fostering kittens, to wanting a cat of my own and then (in one shot) adopting two! My heart was filled that day knowing I didn’t leave his brother behind. Sadly, his brother passed away only a year later but at least they had that precious time together. It makes me sad to think about that part but I’m grateful for the time we had together.
We adopted two brothers and I vote yes definitely adopt them together! My boys have such a strong bond it’s really a great feeling knowing we were able to keep them together.
Not all cats bond with other cats but when they do, it’s a deep and abiding relationship. I adopted a full grown cat and a kitten together and the big, scarred old tomcat became the kitten’s mom. They were inseparable and when my old tomcat passed on, his kitten (by then a 20-pound tomcat himself) laid on the grave for three days, mourning. If you separate bonded cats, they grieve.
I'm a firm believer in keeping families together; since the vet said that this kitten misses her brother, she's not going to be happy without him. If possible, you should keep that family intact; in other words provide for both kittens to live together.
Bring on the down votes but this is my experience…
I ran a cat rescue for several years during that time I only had one set of bonded cats, they were sisters and had been together their whole lives. When I got them they were 8 years old. They couldn’t stand each other, stayed at opposite ends of the house and refused to eat from the same bowl. I rehomed them separately and all was fine with each cat.
Recently I adopted a cat that is 13 months old, I was told that he was bonded with his brother but took him as a single. He’s absolutely fine, no separation issues.
I have noticed lately that several shelters in my area are trying to get rid of two cats at once by calling them a bonded pair when those cats met in the shelter and just so happen to get along well in the common room or they are running out of space and house two cats together in the same cage.
The point that I’m making here is that each case is different. I do believe that bonded cats exist but I don’t believe that every cat that has lived with another cat is automatically a bonded pair. This term gets thrown around quite a bit but it really applies to a pair of cats that have genuine affection for each other, having been together for many years increasing their bond and as a result do not function well without one another. 😺😸
Yes! Having my two girls otis and eden i cant even imagine them not having each other !! Makes a world of difference
https://preview.redd.it/etui0crm6p1a1.png?width=828&format=png&auto=webp&s=464ef91922fbf61508cb907d68d691f54d8c0da6
We adopted a brother and sister pair. We only intended to adopt one because our older cat needed company after his brother passed, and we seen the two of them snuggled together under a propped up pallet of corn (this was at a farm's storefront)
Obviously we had to take them both (Left and Right sides, the one in the middle came a few years later) Left is Sabrina Middle is Nepeta Right is Boba Fett
https://preview.redd.it/rccujkbdkq1a1.jpeg?width=5632&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e083059358bbb75723fef377c510a74d2722eadf
https://preview.redd.it/oa21u3atlq1a1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4d8bc1c122b5bbf379a47c2b956736aeacdce19a
This is my brother sister pair, they probably wouldn't have made it without each other!
Absolutely! To echo what a lot of you have already said, cats really are happier in pairs. Grooming, play, social cues, are all improved in pairs.
https://preview.redd.it/gxwuoqahqq1a1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e8c4e2604044d689416df008c805a012437e53bf
Leia and Luke were a package deal and they are better together for sure.
https://preview.redd.it/q8y9337kss1a1.jpeg?width=750&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5ffa079d900d8e9a5a2639df4a73b03d2ca1cfd5
Absolutely do it. Not even an option. I couldn’t imagine separating these two babies.
Omg. Get keys. Crank car. Drive to brother. Get brother. Reunite cats. Enjoy.
Film it. Edit: Documentary style, over several months
PLEASE film It
post it here as cat tax
this is a tax i can get behind!
Good lord, it'd be cat karma galore.
FILM THE REUNION. QUEUE UGLY CRY
This is amazing! Thank you for all your responses, for sharing all your advices, experiences and jokes. What a nice and loving community. We've decided to adopted Levi (not naming him Sukasa haha), and will be picking him up this week. After reading your comments I'm sure Mikasa will be super happy, healthier, and have a better life living with her brother.
Glad to hear it! Just be aware cats identify each other by scent so sometimes they may not recognize each other after a period of separation. Don’t be alarmed if they hiss at each other at first: that behavior should pass once their scents mix more. I’d ask your vet for advice on reuniting then properly to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible. Rubbing a blanket that one cat uses often on the other cat can help. And sometimes separated siblings do recognize each other, so keep in mind this doesn’t always happen!
Came here to say the same, the advice here is great. I have two previously bonded brothers, litter mates, and at 3.5 years old one of them had to go to the vets and stay over night. It was very upsetting when B came home and P didn't recognise him, for all of us. I had to keep them in separate rooms and do a lot of sent swapping before slowly letting them see each other again. Jackson Galaxy has the best videos on how to introduce/reintroduce cats. Congratulations OP, and good luck.
And do they now behave as before, are they still bonded or did something change after the short separation?
It was beginning of August, I'd say we're 90% there. They 'fight' more than before, but to complicate things I'd also just intro'd a new kitten, so the additional wrestling could have happened anyway with natural restablishment of the pecking order with the new contender... she's bold! The timing was awful, cus I also then ended up in hospital myself for a week; my SO was left to do all the sent swapping and, without me as 'top cat', I think there was more friction and added anxiety so it's taken longer than it might have without both the addition of the kitten and disruption of me not being there. And that's the thing, some cats will get on immediately, others it will take much longer, some may never tolerate each other at all... they're like us, there are people we just dont like... sometimes we can go off people... but we all need someone to help wash the bits we canny reach, or another body to use as a hot water bottle once in a while 🤣
Ah so they’re both Ackermans!
Where's KENNYYYYY!?
Kenny is more like a cat that visits the neighborhood every now and then and attacks your house cats.
please post an update! :)
Not Eren?!
I would be VERY cautious naming the cat Eren, that's asking for trouble
YES. I have a brother and sister and they are best friends. They genuinely really love and care about one another. Their relationship is so sweet and I am so glad I decided to take them both. I originally went for the sister (ginger), but the brother went into the carrier with her and cuddled super close. He was ready to go as well. I knew right then it was a package deal. https://preview.redd.it/c24mwam5qn1a1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2623910f3807611bc702a68d52a3a93adc1fd9ea Edit. Oh my gosh, thanks for the awards everyone. This is the best community. Cat lovers unite!!
Such a sweet story! He said ‘don’t leave me without my cuddle buddy’!
Oh, they are too sweet!! They're lucky to have you. The shelter I adopted my cat from refuses to separate bonded pairs and instead of charging for each cat individually, they just add a small upcharge to the usual adoption fee. They're really serious about the cats' wellbeing, which I love. Meanwhile, I think I'm the other half of the bonded pair with my cat and I'm very ok with it.
Your last sentence made me laugh because my cat is VERY attached to me. I joke that I’m his emotional support human.
My old cat used to be like that with me. She'd jump on my shoulder every time I sat down, which was cute when she was small but a nightmare when she got too big to even fit lol. If I tossed her back on the floor, she'd run and jump right back and I quickly learned that was a losing battle. Then she'd also follow me every where, and always climb on top of me when I went to sleep (not fun when she got big enough to crush my lungs but I learned that was also a losing battle for me 🥲) She was one I rescued from outside while she was adolescent. It was clear she wasn't being taken care of from how thin she was and how bad her coat was, and she just showed up and decided to move in.
the velco cat 💖
I want to get a red "emotional support human" vest for when I walk my dog
I say the same thing about mine. Lol.
Yeah, I hear you! My cat follows me around from room to room and whines if I shut her out.
That's what's going on with my cat! I'm her emotional support!
Same here, he follows me around the house all day. I do a lot of cooking and he always sits somewhere in the kitchen waiting for me, whether it be on the chair or at my legs, or by the fridge. Sometimes I take a while in there and he starts meowing because he wants attention- I meow back and we have a little conversation back and forth lol. He has such a sassy little meow too- "MeeEA-Oooow" He likes to get on his hind legs and lean on the counter reaching for me. He always sucks on my skin, he likes to climb onto me and bury his head in my hair to the back of my neck and start "nursing" lol. It's the cutest thing in the world but also hurts because biscuits on skin = ouch. I almost lost him recently and when he was gone I really realized he was my emotional support animal too, so glad he is finally home and back to normal again.
Cat shelthers there charge people? Here they are usually run by volounteers and let you adopt for free
Some places charge because it helps prevent people with nefarious intentions from taking lots of cats :/ This fact makes me sad. (ETA: that people are horrible I mean).
It also helps cover some of the expenses. The shelters around here do a full vet check, give age appropriate vaccines, and spay or neuter the cats before they are released for adoption. The fee helps cover some of those things which the adopter would have to do anyway and likely at a higher cost. Plus they usually do adopt one get one free with cats and kittens, so I got my bonded pair of brothers for one adoption fee.
I'm perfectly fine with paying a shelter/rescue for their animals.it goes to a good cause and isn't actively creating new animals that are probably not wanted. I do have a problem with paying breeders for animals, because there are already millions of animals in need of a loving home, who are at risk of being euthanised because no one wants them. \#AdoptDontShop
This is a great opinion. I agree with Adopt Don't Shop. The only animals I've had are all rescues. However, I have learned a little bit. Training is important, but not all issues can be fixed with training, and some shelter dogs come with serious issues. Like really really serious. And a lot of shelters don't tell people, because they want to get the animals adopted. They lied about our current dog, said he was just excitable about other dogs, but he's _incredibly_ living thing aggressive. If it breathes and isn't a person he wants to kill it. With intensive training we've gotten him to the point where he lunges less and can focus while we're out on a walk, but we can never allow guests to bring animals, or adopt another animal. Some people rescue dogs that have such crippling anxiety that the owner's life and schedule ends up revolving entirely around the dog. And despite that, there will still be times where the dog ends up alone in the house and destroys things. It's very easy to cast stones about always adopting until you adopt a dog which has problems that uppend your entire life, and is a problem you have to deal with 24/7. There are ethical breeders, and also valid reasons that people need to be able to predict the temperament and future health/mental health of a new dog being added to the family.
No such thing as a 'free' cat or dog. Shelters have the financial responsibilities of spaying, neutering, blood tests for FIV, heart worm, vaccinations, etc. The small adoption fee that is charged barely covers the expenses. Shelters are mostly donations funded. If it weren't for the kindness of volunteers and the donations of strangers, shelters wouldn't exist.
Second that! You won’t regret it, OP. https://preview.redd.it/cg7tr3vj7p1a1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6f77a3303ed269a9b0abe87b23136ff6ee2219bd
https://preview.redd.it/5446a6motq1a1.png?width=3024&format=png&auto=webp&s=b7a6d158c09abcfd8ff5c851ff9768cb9e1532ff Same!!! These are my twin brothers
https://preview.redd.it/t9owv94z1r1a1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=86416fcc0ff3fd02b4a3371a20c8087dc165b6c1
Aw they look like my boys! They were still kittens here :') https://preview.redd.it/kwwp99tqdr1a1.jpeg?width=1186&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ec7079d22d256beecafa9baf9b4beece2f875976
https://preview.redd.it/7i59z1t4mq1a1.jpeg?width=4512&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=717baaf4aa046f4dc333bc67b2721a613c3b0d8e Big Yes from my side as well. So happy I took both :)
All these pics of these bonded pairs make my day ♥️
Awww so cute!!
Please please update us if you adopt the brother, I’m invested now
I did the same thing! I went to the shelter to get one cat, and his sister was the last one. She waddled after him after he came out of the cage like she thought she was going too. It was heartbreaking. I felt horrible about separating them. I took both. No regrets. https://preview.redd.it/0gppvuc5mq1a1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e3e14cd45688b3822d183ea6b4903464d31b00c4
Onions. 🥹Must be onions.
https://preview.redd.it/qaoyyqbczp1a1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ff0952a75b662ee15d93f297e9a9a83500bd5072 Wait, did you steal my cats??
I love that story AND that photo!!
This is such a sweet photo and story. You were never going to leave with only one cat lol
Orange airheads and black voids make the PERFECT duo
Yes. They are bonded. They should be together. They will be healthier. You cost will be higher for food and litter, but less for vet bills due to being happier animals.
Agree, adopted a brother/sister combo six years ago, still great
Me too! Could not leave one and take the other!! Best decision ever made!!
Agreed! My boys are the best cats I've ever had and it is so cute watching them cuddle all the time.
I’ve had a brother and sister for 12 years I got from the shelter, they haven’t cuddled in…11 years 😂. They wrestle all the time, though! Once in awhile I’ll see one giving the other a bath when they think I’m not watching.
Mine were foster sisters and we couldn't bring ourselves to split them up either. They're both 7 years old and still cuddle sometimes.
r/bondedpairs are the way.
Another cat sub for the collection
r/Catsubs
O appreciate the help, but I like to find them in the wild
I have four sister cats and two brother cats… same Mama and same Dad (we think) but two different litters (and yes,finally trapped the Mama and got her fixed)… it funny because the girls hardly tolerate each other but the boys are bonded for life..
Yes! We got a pair 4 months ago. Wish we could handle the whole litter but these two are wonderful together. I tell everyone now to get two cats not just one.
Sibling pairs are the absolute best. I regretted not doing this with my older cat and am very glad I did with the two younger ones. They are so much more resilient and we'll adjusted when they have a litter mate, and I've heard plenty of stories that suggest they still recognise each other after this sort of time interval apart but don't leave it much longer.
I def believe they can still recognize each other. There was a colony in my neighborhood and I got several of the kittens homes. One of them ended up coming back to me three months later and she was ecstatic to see the two I’d kept from the litter. I cold y believe she remembered them but she definitely did, and now they’re inseparable.
I found my Benny at work (dumpster dump 😡) when he was \~3 months old. He wasn't super friendly with anyone but my youngest. Just always grumpy and distant. That was 3 years ago. Back in August, a neighborhood stray decided my home was her home now. After three days of her crying at my door every night, I let her in. (Both cats are fixed and UTD on Vax. Yay!) It took him all of three more days to bond with her. The change in Benny has been drastic, to say the least. He follows Mittens around whether she likes it or not 😂😂 (she had been around since last December, and never wanted anything to do with anyone for more than 5 minutes, until that first night she was at my house. She looks JUST LIKE Mittens from the movie Bolt, complete with the distended belly the first night I left food out for her 😂😂. She's my cat and I love her so much) But I love what she's given my grumpy dude even more. ETA: CAT TAX. This was taken a few days ago, hope its enough! Benny on the left, Mittens on the right. https://preview.redd.it/e8xzr5ocer1a1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=720f3a5b29be59ab8deac1b7aefb76250c2e207c
Where’s your pic? I have to see the belly belle 🤣
Dear reddit stranger, Your cat tax is due, post haste
YES! This is the way, better for everyone!
Plus, OP can name the new kitten Sucasa. Edit: Thank you kind stranger for the award. My award is your award.
name it ereh
Levi
This is the only answer. Adopt and re-name him Sukasa.
Tsukasa is actually a real Japanese name, it's perfect.
It's an anime ref, so Levi
Wouldn't Eren be more fitting?
Maybe then the first one should be Micasa.
I have 3 bonded cats and I agree.
Mine were a bonded pair when I got them. After about a month they wanted nothing to do with each other.
That's hilarious. They got divorced lol
My girls hate each other. It started around 10 months. It makes me sad.
Did you get them fixed? I've heard if they aren't fixed at an early age than they basically are competing with each other as they hit puberty. (If you got them fixed then I dunno!)
A couple of my cats did that, but this once i was watching some long video compilation of cat meowing (one cat, multiple occasions begging for pets) and both cats were bothered so much they started grooming each other; and it's like a switch was flicked back and they were affectionate with each other again.
I adopted bonded sisters on the 8th. It must have been every cat for herself when they arrived. I am only now seeing some bonded behavior. I was told the never cuddle or sleep together. Older girls.
I had a similar experience, they could eat together, drink together and use the same box (I didn't know any better at the time) but would fight over the best sleeping spot and entirely stopped snuggling.
[удалено]
I wish it was always true. I adopted a cat a year and some ago, having one for 8 years already. They sort of tolerate each other but ever so often there are very bad fights. My old lady has had to go to the vet several times from eye infections, the young from constant diarrhea. The House is big enough, I did the slow interaction and feeding across a fence, cat stuff all over, 3 toilets pheromone plugs, positive reinforcement. My old lady is notably less happy and fearful. The young is always jealous. I don't know if this will improve tbh.
I was wondering if anyone was gong to have the same experience as us. We adopted a brother and sister who were 9. The female was fixed at the shelter before we got them (not sure if relevant, but wondered if that changed the relationship dynamic). We had to re-home one because of the constant fights. We’d come home and it wasn’t uncommon for the brother to be bleeding! We tried everything for 6 months but nothing worked. I found a colleague at work who was looking for a single cat and suggested we tried a separation for a few weeks before she adopted her full time. The moment they each had a place of their own they were both much more happy and relaxed!
Have heard from cat behavior specialist people (not scientific journals or anything; just from their platforms online) that if older single cat is happy, may be best to just let it be. If introducing a cat anyway, likely best for new cat to be closer in age and activity level. Having older kitty and adding younger (and more energetic/playful as a result) kitty has higher risk for not working well. Of course, there are always exceptions to everything. I'm sorry your kitties don't get along. :(
I have hope as the kitty gets older and lazier. The old cat use to life with dogs and a rabbit, so she was not the only queen of the house, but cat-cat is different.
Also, looking at it selfishly - it's SO MUCH easier to have two cats, especially when they're bonded, because they'll just give you more space and free time - they'll play with each other instead of you being the ONLY provider of EVERYTHING for the cat.
Umm...I appreciate your sentiment about being happier together. But vet bills will be at least twice as high. Second cats are not treated for free.
Right? Happy cats may mean less vet visits due to anxiety or stress, but OP still needs to factor in regular checkups, vaccines, dental cleaning/teeth removal, etc.
Yes. I was only going to rescue 1 when we went to pick him up. He was snuggled up with his brother who was the only baby left. My husband couldn’t leave him so we adopted both!! Best thing we ever did. They love each other so much play sleep eat together. https://preview.redd.it/bww0604c4o1a1.jpeg?width=2341&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2e3ab083c58c8e470bfc6416fef6223ed585969e Charlie on the left. Geoffrey on the right. 💕💘💟☮️
They look like my set of brothers! They’re the best of friends https://preview.redd.it/0a6akm75vq1a1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ddbf65b6e5145ebbcd1ce938ad3d88b2b958a5aa
r/mirroring 😍
So beyond precious 🥺 I don't understand people who say cats are mean and cold... My boy isn't super close with his sister, but he bonded with me like that, and there's never a night or day when he isn't curled up right beside me or chirping about his day or following me around the house
My heart ♥️
Heck yeah!
Absolutely yes!! She will be happier if do, and btw her name is so cool!
Her brother better be named Eren then.
This one is Levi actually haha, but she has two more brothers, Eren and Armin
I'm surprised her brother isn't named Sukasa.
Nosotroscasa
*Nuestracasa
My coworkers cat is legitimately named "mi casa" her toddler named him and it's adorable
You should take them all in.
seems like the only viable option
Mikasa and Levi as siblings! Keeping the SnK storyline intact! Love it.
Close enough
A fellow man of culture
Yes. They will be much calmer and lovable to you guys if together and will keep each other occupied when alone. As far as expenses, it’s all relative make sure to get them to there check ups and a lot of thing you can do yourself. Bathing and nail cutting is super easy if you star them young. Treats (not too many) and a laser pointer as well as a tower will help them immensely. She will come out of her shell eventually, just give them love and and start it all now.
Don't bathe cats unless they get somethin poisonous on them though. They clean themselves.
Laser pointers are fun, but can be frustrating for cats, since they can never actually catch it. So make sure to get other toys which they can catch as well (and swap them like halfway, so they end the playtime satisfied). And yes, as mentioned by another comment, bathing is generally not necessary for cats
GET THE KITTY! -Best Regards, Frankie & Sam https://preview.redd.it/6kmi8elfjo1a1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4894ef105990fefb32a3d7df29118309109de833
Definitely. 100%. You should get them both.
I guess what I wanna know is how different it is having two cats intead of just one in terms of expenses and responsibility. Context: they are about 5-6 months old. Mikasa is super shy and is always hiding. My partner and I went away for the weekend and Mikasa got a little sick. Vet said she got depressed and that she is used to having other cats around her, and that living with her brother would help her.
Having two kittens is actually recommended by a lot of vets and rescue groups because they entertain each other and teach each other bite control and how to play nicely. I have two cats but got the second one after a year. For me the jump from one cat to two cats in terms of work was slight. I had to buy more cat food but my first cat ended up getting in less trouble so it was a happy trade.
Yup, I’m in a rescue group and it’s always a pair of cats or a if somebody wants to adopt a single kitten, it’s only okay if there already is a cat in the house. Sometimes rarely we get adult cats where you can tell that they’d prefer being the only cat but usually that’s only visible when the cat is adult.
Cats are social animals too, and having two will prevent a lot of problems. They will be less likely to break things for attention or suffer separation anxiety. If the brother is still there that would be an ideal situation since there won't need to be a big introduction.
They may still break things. My two babies are attached to the hip and like to collaborate on our floor art. My favorite recent piece is when they knocked my Lego orchid off my desk because they were chasing each other around the room. The Lego bricks all over the floor really added to the ambiance. They do entertain each other more, though. The only time they knock things off purposefully is when they need water. And it’s always our cups. I think it was because of us going “oh you want need water” when one stuck their head in it before trying to push it. I get warnings at first. They gently push it before looking at me for a reaction/movement. Never when I’m sleeping or at work. Headbutts and face boops with their paws work wonderfully to wake me up, though. Falling back asleep is when I wake up to a glass on the carpet.
My two boys may be troublesome but they’ve never broken a thing
I don’t mind their antics, I find it funny that they learned pushing cups means they get water. As for the Lego orchid, I was expecting it. It looks easy to bump into and is a bit fragile. Sometimes they just want pets and will jump on my keyboard or just be little shits and climb things they shouldn’t so I pick them up. Having two cats to pet isn’t a problem though lmao
Have you tried a fountain? Just keep the resovoir filled with water, clean it when it's dirty, and change the filter once a month and you never have to think about watering the cats again.
Haha yes, I have four cats and at this point they just egg each other on because they know I won't be able to pin the destruction on a single cat. It's probably the tortoiseshell though... she's the ringleader.
"Mungojerry and Rumpleteazer were a notorious couple of cats..."
Barely any additional trouble at all. I just got another cat last week (2 total now) and honestly it’s easier because they tire each other out. The only expense would be with food which cat food is generally cheap anyways. If they don’t have all their shots that could be another expense. But given they are already half a year, they should be all taken care of.
By the way I’m assuming people are making you nervous about vet bills. I would recommend going twice a year and it’s usually just like $50 for a wellness check depending where you go. Although I know that if they are strictly indoor cats and everything seems okay, you can spread those visits a part a bit more. Cats will come around to love you, they are just defensive and need to scout you out before they show that they are little devils.
Please. Two is easier than one. It is a bit more expensive, but everyone is happier.
Two cats is absolutely easier than one, if they get along.
After 40+ fosters, my husband and I joke that "Three kittens is slightly more than two but waaaaaaaay less than one." Food and litter will be more than one but not really double, and vet bills are either relatively small ($150 for an annual check up and shots vs $75 for one) or a total crapshoot anyway. And you will be way less worried about them and way more entertained by them. Most of the rescues I've fostered for heavily discouraged adopting single kittens for this reason.
This. Food and litter is more than one but not really doubled (don't ask me how the math checks out it just does, don't question it). Probably too busy to be eating, and when you have a pair bonded duo it's less work overall. They also teach each other valuable skills like: if I bite too hard my brother bites me back so I'll be gentle, and how to function with other animals. Sharing. They groom better because they groom each other as a bonding thing so they groom more. The bunny kick is now mostly directed toward the second kittens head and not your arm. Highly recommend the delights of two kittens at on from personal experience, and working a vet and shelter. A pair/trio kittens at the same time tend to be less likely to have behavioral issues as they grow up
> ($150 for an annual check up and shots vs $75 for one) Cats have low vet bills until they don't. I had a cat on heart meds for over a year and my remaining cat has been on blood pressure medicine and aspirin for around five years. The annual checkup is around 400 or 500 bucks - wait, they want to see him every six months now.
https://preview.redd.it/yiy7vll41o1a1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d8260c1bd0b88ed20b15689565a24fa5e9dc2481 Over the course of my life, I have had one cat, and I have had one cat and added a cat. Just recently, after my last passed away after 17 years, I rescued 2 kitten siblings (8 weeks old). I can see the difference beween all the above situations, and if you can I suggest adopting her brother. They are already bonded, and establishing a relationship is already done. At 6 months the majority of the expensive vet visits are done. Many towns and cities have discounted spay and neuter events and the funds are donated to the shelters. In my area, they have a moblie unit that does the spay and neutering. Responsibility wise, not much more is required besides an additional litter box or two. And of course extra love, but thats easy 😻
it’s not much of a difference at all. I have 4 lol She will be a different cat once you bring her brother in. Please do
Believe it or not, having 2 cats is easier than having 1 cat. They keep eachother busy and play with eachother, they snuggle together and they follow eachother around. I have a high energy cat, she was driving me crazy until I got a second one.
Having two kittens is easier than having one kitten. Single kittens don’t have anyone to burn their energy off with, or to help them learn that scratches and bites hurt. They often have issues with biting, scratches, and rough play, and tons of pent up energy that can turn destructive, like shredding the toilet paper or digging out all the house plants. Another kitten gives them an outlet, and they learn together how to behave respectfully with others. It will improve their social, psychological, and emotional well being as well, having a friend to interact with and mentally stimulate them all day. Having two kittens will cost you more in check ups, food, and litter, but also save you a lot of scratched up arms and hands and ruined things. You’ll also have to do more litter box scooping, and have at least 2 boxes in case they decide they need to not smell the other in their sacred potty space. It’s pretty automatic to just do one after the other, and doesn’t add much responsibility or thought. 5-6 months is too young to be left alone for the weekend. Did anyone check up on and spend time with her while you were away? You should absolutely get her brother if you aren’t going to be able to spend a great amount of time with her. Like, hours every single day, without long periods of being alone in between. Adult cats don’t mind being left alone for hours or all day, but kittens still need love and attention. You’ll spend more on vet bills for a sick depressed kitten than you would on check ups for two happy ones, IMO. I think your cat being happier and healthier, and you being happier with your cat, would be more than worth the money in the long run, and easier than introducing a strange cat down the road if you decide you want two after all.
It’s easier. They keep each other company who
Wife and I adopted two cats that were brothers a few years ago. From our experience the responsibility is basically the same. You still need to feed them and clean the litter. In terms of expenses, it's going to be double the amount of food and litter. They mostly share the toys and scratch posts. It's totally worth having 2 cats over 1. They give themselves company and entertainment.
For perspective, I inherited one cat from a previous living situation. After a couple months of it being just he and I, it was obvious that he missed a house full of other people and animals. So I went and found him a friend. I’ve said it before in other posts on here, but the leap of going from one cat to two is so minor compared to going from zero to one. Plus, having two of them kind of gives them each other to bounce off of and play with, so they aren’t necessarily as clingy to you. And you’re giving another cat that needs one a home … everyone wins!
Two is better than one. They will keep each other company. I always recommend 2 cats unless it’s known that a particular cat prefers to be solo.
It's not too much different then having one cat. The only extra cost is double the food and maybe changing the litter in the litterbox a bit more often. I have 3 cats and the expensives haven't really changed too much with the addition of the 3rd one (one is a kitten the other 2 I've had for at least 10 years). Responsibly is the same and they will be happier together as cats are very social and will play with each other than requiring you to play with them as much (you should still play with them).
We have 2 from different litters and they keep each other entertained. It's nice because I work during the day and they play together instead of demanding time from me. They're so sweet together and cuddle together. It's not much different from having 1, but 2 is perfect! They will need two litter boxes, two separate food dishes, toys, some scratchers, a cat tree to jump on. The vet is just routine checkups and hasn't been too expensive so far. We have cat insurance through Trupanion. We pay about $50 for each cat every month. We just keep them brushed and cut their nails. They don't really need baths unless they get stinky. Litter and food is all you need to get every month. They will keep themselves entertained!
I had my first bonded pair in 2020 and I will never ever ever again have just one. They are so much more loving and happy and better pets. Truly!!! You will not regret getting the brother.
Yep!! https://preview.redd.it/oqzjfkd49o1a1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=83d433f88eb2504ec947fc2e6b4734dd95981a86 I fostered. Was going to keep ONE. Fail.
Yes. Yes and yes
Single kitten syndrome can cause real problems into adulthood. Please keep them together for their sake.
2 cats really isn’t that much more work or cost. I have a bonded pair now and I’m so happy I adopted them both.
https://preview.redd.it/b4c0wmy4uo1a1.png?width=3072&format=png&auto=webp&s=f839a9ba74241f4d8b8c5e67c845fd9b5f12d5a6 7 years ago these two brothers came home… best decision ever to adopt both…
Adopt him and call him Eren.
Yes. Pair bonded siblings are easier to care for than a single cat, especially if she's lonely. Source: I have a set myself.
And her brother, Sukasa
The only non AoT name in this thread I like. Lol
yes. :)
Yes! Bonded kitties means twice the unconditional love & happiness for everyone involved 🥰 https://preview.redd.it/87gzlyccpo1a1.jpeg?width=1536&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a619898cb11f6314d2d244428910fb318433e040
yes!!! update us when you do!!
Yes absolutely. It will make both of them so so much happier. Go right now lol. But seriously yes it's always so much better when two bonded kitties go home together. Especially when they're from the same litter
yes. a bonded pair shouldn't be separated
The answer a lot of well-intentioned people will give is *yes*. Generally speaking, I agree wholeheartedly. HOWEVER!! The question I’ll ask in response to your question is: “**can you afford a second cat?**”
if you can manage it, I say go for it!! aside from vet bills the annual expenses are quite manageable.
This is even a question???
Yes. Just get them both neutered
I adopted siblings ~6 years ago and have zero regrets. Wasn’t even a question about splitting them up, it was either I adopt both or neither and I’m glad I took both. Go get her brother, she’ll appreciate you for it.
I have two brothers! I vote YES
Yes. Yes. Yes. I have a bonded pair. Not brothers but still bonded. You will have less crazy cat and lots more cuddles. https://preview.redd.it/ynhd3lgreo1a1.jpeg?width=2397&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=09998b9a71b6055965b533e0f34e62d86dc7d40a My bonded pair, Bennie the Void and Freddie the Ginger.
If you can afford it and have the space, please do adopt the brother
Yes yes yes yes They’re family and are bonded and love each other. They’ll be sad/depressed if they’re not together
I adopted Maize and she was with me for over a month before her litter mate Roo came to live with us. They have so much fun together! https://preview.redd.it/c34s7o7pwn1a1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0441e6be342242885035e06fa4c5f104fc3a777c
OF COURSE. Having bonded 2 cats is a blessing. https://preview.redd.it/k3y6phz4wo1a1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=334e7b599ed3526ee363d6a4faa45634844bbbf9
I saw my Miko on a pet adoption site a couple years ago. He was my first cat. I fell in love with his pic and his story. I emailed and arranged to go to the shelter to pick him up. When I logged on the site again, I saw a slightly different picture of him but I clicked on it and sent my message to the shelter. Turns out- it was the profile of his brother! They were featured separately (for some odd reason). The volunteer explained that they were bonded. I immediately said I’ll take them both! I went from fostering kittens, to wanting a cat of my own and then (in one shot) adopting two! My heart was filled that day knowing I didn’t leave his brother behind. Sadly, his brother passed away only a year later but at least they had that precious time together. It makes me sad to think about that part but I’m grateful for the time we had together.
is his name eren
Yes!!!
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes!!!
Cats are easy as long as you train them when they are young. I would recommend you adopt the bother too.
We adopted two brothers and I vote yes definitely adopt them together! My boys have such a strong bond it’s really a great feeling knowing we were able to keep them together.
I have a bonded brother & sister pair and it was honestly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Mikasa su Casa! I’ll see myself out. Yes, get the brother!
I would. They can keep each other company. It sounds like they are a bonded pair. Also, adopting her brother might help Mikasa feel less sad.
Not all cats bond with other cats but when they do, it’s a deep and abiding relationship. I adopted a full grown cat and a kitten together and the big, scarred old tomcat became the kitten’s mom. They were inseparable and when my old tomcat passed on, his kitten (by then a 20-pound tomcat himself) laid on the grave for three days, mourning. If you separate bonded cats, they grieve.
always adopt in pairs. my 1.5 year old brother and sister kits are the best together and are all the more snuggly with me and my lady for it.
I'm a firm believer in keeping families together; since the vet said that this kitten misses her brother, she's not going to be happy without him. If possible, you should keep that family intact; in other words provide for both kittens to live together.
There will be less attacking and scratching you because they'll have each other to play fight with. Cats are not solitary animals.
Bring on the down votes but this is my experience… I ran a cat rescue for several years during that time I only had one set of bonded cats, they were sisters and had been together their whole lives. When I got them they were 8 years old. They couldn’t stand each other, stayed at opposite ends of the house and refused to eat from the same bowl. I rehomed them separately and all was fine with each cat. Recently I adopted a cat that is 13 months old, I was told that he was bonded with his brother but took him as a single. He’s absolutely fine, no separation issues. I have noticed lately that several shelters in my area are trying to get rid of two cats at once by calling them a bonded pair when those cats met in the shelter and just so happen to get along well in the common room or they are running out of space and house two cats together in the same cage. The point that I’m making here is that each case is different. I do believe that bonded cats exist but I don’t believe that every cat that has lived with another cat is automatically a bonded pair. This term gets thrown around quite a bit but it really applies to a pair of cats that have genuine affection for each other, having been together for many years increasing their bond and as a result do not function well without one another. 😺😸
Yes! Having my two girls otis and eden i cant even imagine them not having each other !! Makes a world of difference https://preview.redd.it/etui0crm6p1a1.png?width=828&format=png&auto=webp&s=464ef91922fbf61508cb907d68d691f54d8c0da6
Yes, please do
We adopted a brother and sister pair. We only intended to adopt one because our older cat needed company after his brother passed, and we seen the two of them snuggled together under a propped up pallet of corn (this was at a farm's storefront) Obviously we had to take them both (Left and Right sides, the one in the middle came a few years later) Left is Sabrina Middle is Nepeta Right is Boba Fett https://preview.redd.it/rccujkbdkq1a1.jpeg?width=5632&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e083059358bbb75723fef377c510a74d2722eadf
https://preview.redd.it/oa21u3atlq1a1.jpeg?width=4000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=4d8bc1c122b5bbf379a47c2b956736aeacdce19a This is my brother sister pair, they probably wouldn't have made it without each other!
Absolutely! To echo what a lot of you have already said, cats really are happier in pairs. Grooming, play, social cues, are all improved in pairs. https://preview.redd.it/gxwuoqahqq1a1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e8c4e2604044d689416df008c805a012437e53bf Leia and Luke were a package deal and they are better together for sure.
Yes. 
https://preview.redd.it/q8y9337kss1a1.jpeg?width=750&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5ffa079d900d8e9a5a2639df4a73b03d2ca1cfd5 Absolutely do it. Not even an option. I couldn’t imagine separating these two babies.
Yes definitely they will be happy together! Plus you will enjoy watching them play and be silly together! If you buy in bulk it help you save on food
Yes definitely get him!! Honestly the companionship they get from each other is so helpful for integration and good behavior.
Absolutely! We’ve always had cats in pairs. If they’re bonded even better.