One cat, or two?

Question
Hi Tina!
I have adopted a cat like 5 months ago and he is a really really shy cat when other people are around (it hides) but it's very clingy when he's alone with me. It's been the only cat in the house and I live alone. Recently, my school work has increased and I've been on the computer a lot. The cat would jump onto the keyboard and wants to sleep there because the laptops gives out heat and it wants to stay close to me. It's so clingy that I always have to trick him into going out of my room and then I'd close the door immediately so I can get some work done. And then when it's outside it would bump itself against the door and makes some really loud and long cries as if it's in pain and it can go on for hours and hours. I feel sad about it and I know it must be lonely. I am wondering if I should get another cat. Is it a lot more work? Or will it make things easier for me? I haven't been able to sleep very well too because the cat keeps wanting to come into the room at night.

Thank you for answering!  

Answer
Hi Colum,

I do think that you should consider getting another cat to keep your current cat company. Do you know if your cat likes other cats? Of course if you do adopt a second cat or kitten be sure to introduce them gradually and talk to the shelter or group to make sure you adopt a cat that is not too aggressive towards other cats and is not too timid either. Here is an article about introducing a new cat to your resident cat:

http://catnet.stanford.edu/articles/introducing_cats.html

Although the cats may share one litterbox once they have been getting along, it is still far better to have 2 boxes, and when you first bring home a new cat it is vital to have separate litter boxes to avoid disputes and possible accidents.

Another thing to think about is your ability to provide a lifelong home for 2 cats, they are expected to live 20 years or so. If you are very busy with school, will you be graduating and moving soon, or expect other upsets in your life? Two cats are really no more work than one cat, but there is a commitment to veterinary care and lifelong home for another cat to think about.

Another tip is to get a heated bed for your cat - a nice warm place to sleep will possibly help prevent him from seeking out your warm computer or bed at night! You can buy these in pet stores and online.

Good luck!