At Furkids, we often hear the question: “Why can’t I adopt just one kitten?” It’s a great question, one that deserves a thoughtful answer rooted in animal development. When it comes to kittens under six months old, we have a policy that they either go home with another kitten or cat, or to a household that already has a compatible companion animal. This isn’t just a preference, it’s a best practice based on what’s healthiest for kittens during their most critical period of growth. The reason? Something known as “Single Kitten Syndrome”.

Single Kitten Syndrome refers to behavioral challenges that often arise when a kitten is raised without another companion animal. While every kitten is unique, those raised alone are more likely to develop issues like excessive biting and scratching during play, difficulty learning boundaries and appropriate behavior, over-attachment or destructive behavior due to boredom or loneliness, and poor socialization with other cats or even humans.

Kittens learn how to be cats through play and interaction with their littermates. They practice learning boundaries and how to communicate properly. When a kitten is removed from this learning environment too early and raised in isolation, it misses out on these crucial life lessons. 

When kittens are adopted in pairs or have a compatible companion animal at home, they continue to teach and learn from each other. Together, they burn off energy through healthy play, learn limits and bite inhibition, build confidence, and provide comfort and companionship through times of stress. This companionship often results in happier, less destructive, and more well-adjusted cats in the long run. 

Because we want the best outcome for both our kittens and adopters, Furkids requires that kittens under six months of age either be adopted with another kitten, or go to a home that already has a companion animal. This policy helps us ensure our kittens grow into well-socialized, emotionally balanced cats, and that our adopters have a smoother experience overall. 

Many adopters tell us they were hesitant at first to take home two kittens, but quickly realize how much easier it is. Kittens raised together keep each other entertained, are less demanding of human attention, and often form deep, lifelong bonds that are heartwarming to witness. At Furkids, every policy we put in place has one goal: to create the happiest possible match between people and pets. 

To view our currently adoptable cats and fill out an adoption survey, please visit furkids.org/cat-adoptions!