How to Choose a Second Family Cat

Adding a second cat to the family can expand the enjoyment you receive from sharing your life with pets, and provide another homeless animal with the loving environment it deserves. Follow these steps to ensure you choose the right second cat for you and for your first cat as well.

Instructions

    • 1

      Keep your first cat's temperament and age in mind when choosing your second cat. If your first cat is young and playful, you might consider adopting an energetic and youthful cat or kitten. However, if your first cat is a shy and senior kitty, an older, more relaxed second cat is the better choice.

    • 2

      Consider the role the second cat will play in the house. If you're adopting the second cat as a playmate for a child, choose a young cat or kitten. If the second cat will be a companion for a senior citizen, choose an older cat who loves to take naps in laps.

    • 3

      Take the second cat to your veterinarian for a full checkup before you bring him into your house, or isolate him from your first cat until he has his visit.

    • 4

      Stay patient. Once you've chosen your second cat and bring him home, your first cat, and any other pets you may have, will require an adjustment period. It's important that you stay patient during this time and allow the animals to acclimate themselves.