Bonnie and Clyde
Kittens are, in my opinion, one of the most playful animals on earth. A few months ago I fostered a couple of kittens for Austin Pets Alive! and I was reminded just how much trouble and fun a kitten can be. Not only do kittens have a very high play drive, but the get into everything and can climb just about any vertical or horizontal surface.
So, why get two kittens instead of one?
For the very simple reason that if you have two kittens, they can play with each other.
Play related aggression (biting, scratching, and attacking during play) is very common in kittens. In fact, this predatory behavior is a normal part of play behavior in kittens. The problem begins when this behavior is directed at you (your hands, feet, etc) rather than at a toy or another kitten.
Additionally, if your like most people and you spend 8-10 hours each day away from home, a single kitten is going to have a significant period of time with no one at home to play with. If you only have a few hours a day to spend with your kitten you may not be meeting her behavioral need to play which is where a second kitten can be a very good idea. Having two kittens at once allows them to have as much play time as they want with each other and keeps you out of the line of fire of kitten attacks.
If you are going to get two kittens I would suggest getting them at the same time from the same litter so that you know that they already get along. If this is not possible and you are getting kittens who don’t already know each other make sure you follow a careful and gradual introduction plan.
Getting a kitten is a significant commitment and if your going to get two kittens please make sure that you are committed to caring for both cats for the rest of their lives (approximately a 15 year commitment).
If you are experiencing play aggression with your kitten, contact us today to set up your complimentary 15 minute telephone consultation.
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