replacing one of a pair of cats

Question
QUESTION: We had 2 cats for 11 years who were sisters.  One of the cats just died.  Should we replace the cat who died so that the surviving cat does not get too lonely?  Or will she be as happy or even happier because she is now the sole recepient of love and attention.  Thank you.

ANSWER: Hello Rene,

I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your cat - I hope everyone in the family is bearing up okay.  You don't mention how long it has been since the death of your cat, or how you feel that your remaining cat is reacting.  If the surviving cat is clearly distressed and missing her sister - you may see that she is behaving strangely, crying or refusing to eat - then you might consider a companion for her.  However, sometimes the death of one cat has surprisingly little impact on the survivor, and as you rightly say, some cats do enjoy being the centre of attention once the other cat has gone.  Remember that cats are solitary creatures by nature and many cats living in the same house simply tolerate each other rather than depending upon each other for company.  

I suggest that you think about a companion for your cat only if she appears distressed or lonely - otherwise, I would not be tempted to upset her with the introduction of a new cat if she seems happy on her own.

I hope this is helpful.  Best of luck with this.

Take care
Annie

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for the advice, and thank you for the good wishes.

The cat died 2 days ago.  The surviving cat is being more affectionate, but that could be because we are paying more attention to her.  My wife said that yesterday, after coming back from the vet for a grooming, she ate like hell . . . a treat we bought her and her regulary food, just gobbled it down.

But we are taking a 2 week holiday next month and will leave the cat at home (someone will be coming in every other day to make sure all is well.)  So my concern was short-term, with our imminent holiday, and long term to have someone keep her company.

So, as you suggested, we will keep an eye on her and see how she acts.

Thanks again.

Answer
You're most welcome and I'm glad that you found my suggestions helpful.  I would suggest that if the holiday is next month, you don't have long to find a suitable companion for your cat and it would be unsettling for both cats if you introduced a newcomer and then went on holiday.  In your shoes, I would definitely wait until after your holiday and then review the situation.  By then, you should have a good idea of how your surviving cat is coping with the loss of her sister.

Have a good holiday!

Take care
Annie