A common question that most pet owners ask is if a current pet needs a new companion. This is a loaded question as the answer varies greatly, especially according to the species of your pet and their personality. However, there are both pros and cons to getting your pet a new companion. Dogs and cats are different types of animals, with different origins and different ways of being. This makes the question of having another pet differ per household. This question has been asked even more since the influx of adoptions during the COVID-19 quarantine. Most pet owners got pets during a time of working and schooling remotely. Most pets got used to having their owners’ attention almost 24/7. Due to this, many are worried about their pets’ loneliness levels now that they have to go back to in-person work and learning.
Dogs are descendants of wolves, who are known for running in packs. Dogs are social creatures who crave the company of others. While this does not have to be the company of another pet, most pet owners aren’t able to spend all of their time with their pets. “Dogs are social creatures and are not designed to live by themselves,¨ states veterinary behavior specialist Kersti Seksel. Nevertheless, some dogs prefer to be only dogs. Dogs have different personality traits and some do good with a companion, while others don’t. Dogs have different past histories, such as abuse and problems with other pets, so be sure to take this into deep consideration before getting your dog a companion. Just like humans, some dogs can connect with others, while others can’t.
Taking all of this into consideration, having a companion for your dog can be beneficial. Companion dogs can exercise together and wear each other out, creating a healthy routine. Companion dogs can also help other dogs with separation anxiety, since they have someone to play with. Getting another pet can definitely help with this, however, you should get a pet because you want one and can care for one, not just as a means to solve a problem. Dog behaviorist Melissa Starling says ¨it’s difficult to say a blanket “yes” or “no” to whether a second dog can help with anxiety issues, because every dog is different.¨ You have to adjust accordingly to your dog and their needs. Some dogs would rather find companionship in humans, rather than another dog. Before adopting another pet, you should try putting your dog with one. You can do this by fostering, taking care of a friend’s dog for a day, or having your dog put in a doggy daycare. This is a great trial run to see how your dog would do with a companion.
Cats are somewhat different from dogs in the aspect of having a companion. Cats don’t necessarily need a companion, however, some like having one. Cats are more territorial than dogs. This means they can feel threatened by other pets and feel like they have to fight for resources. Cats are descendants of African wild cats. The social structure of African wild cats has changed quite a bit in domesticated cats, however, certain cats are still used to being alone.
However, if introduced properly and if they see that there are enough resources for both cats in a home, then most cats will be open to the idea of another pet. You have to be patient with this process! It is a misconception that the majority of cats prefer to be alone. Most cats are comfortable with another cat if they are introduced properly. Bringing a new pet home and introducing them suddenly can make them feel as if they have to fight for their resources and owners, so be sure to do this crucial step properly!
Some cats do benefit a great bit from a companion. Cats who have a companion help give each other exercise and they both play together. This can be beneficial as most cats can be sluggish and not get enough daily exercise. If you think your cat would be compatible with another cat, neutered cats tend to get along much better than those which are not neutered due to a reduction in hormones. If you are getting a kitten, be sure to neuter/spay them whenever your vet says they are old enough. Additionally, some people who already have two cats automatically get a new one after one dies. This should be avoided as some cats show stress as a sign of grief. It is good to give them time to adapt to being an only cat, before getting a new one.
With all this in mind, be sure to actually be physically able to care for more than one pet. Pets are a lot of work and you need to dedicate a lot of time and resources to them. Don’t get a new pet solely for the reason to give your pet a new companion. While a companion for a pet is great, do not get a new pet if you will not be able to care properly for it. Be sure to think about your cat or dog, their personality, and how they react to other animals. Thinking about their history and how well they do with others in the household is the best way to see how your pet would do with a companion. Some pets prefer to be only pets and that’s okay! The main thing you should remember is that every pet is different.
Story by:
Aaby Cabral
Works Cited
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Villasenor, Yvonne. “Another Cat? 9 Signs Your Cat May Need A Feline Friend.” Rover.com, 23 June 2023,
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