Our single kitten policy

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Taking home just one kitten may seem like a good idea - but a lonely kitten can be a real “cat-tastrophe” for felines and humans alike. 'Single Kitten Syndrome' is the reason that we (like many other responsible organisations) require kittens under 9 months either go to their forever home as part of a pair, or to a household that already has at least one other cat.

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Why?

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When kittens play together, they give each other strong cues not to bite or scratch too hard. Humans are less 'fluent' in feline behavioural signals. With 'Single Kitten Syndrome', kittens grow up to be cats with “cattitude.” They tend to play too roughly and often get returned when they reach adulthood and their behavior isn’t so cute anymore.

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Two is often easier than one! A pair of kittens will keep each other socialized, entertained, and exercised, even while you’re away from home. Adopt one, and you’ll likely come home to a crying, anxious kitten who is desperate for attention. Adopt two, and you’ll come home to happy kittens ready for extra play and snuggles. They’ll still bond to you as their favourite person, but they won’t require the many hours of attention that a single kitten craves each day.

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Baby kittens are still figuring out how to grow up to be cats. Having another feline friend around helps reinforce good habits like using the litter box and scratching post. With a buddy in the home, they learn to be model “kit-izens” and use their very best behaviour.

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What if I've got a dog at home? Is that the same?

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Dogs and cats can be best buddies. Some dogs and cats even love to play together! But a dog (or any other kind of pet) can’t show a young kitten how to use the litterbox or how to behave like a cat.​

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