Single cat syndrome is a set of behaviors that develops when a kitten is raised without another cat companion, or when it is taken away from its siblings or mama at too young an age. When this happens, cats miss out on not only bonding, but also on necessary play and socialization habits.
BITING
Cats with single cat syndrome often don’t know the difference between playful biting and aggressive, hurtful bites. If they didn’t have a cat sibling to show them what those bites feel like, and to learn those rules with, it won’t know when just right becomes too much.
DESTRUCTIVENESS
These cats also are more destructive. They may claw and scratch furniture, attack ankles, etc. Again, without siblings or other cats to help them understand appropriate play, if you don’t entertain them they will find inappropriate ways to entertain themselves.
OVER ATTACHMENT & CLINGINESS
If your cat follows you everywhere or develops separation anxiety when you’re gone, it may have single cat syndrome. Some cats are just naturally more anxious and want to stay close to you. But if your cat is an only cat and if these behaviors seem excessive, this could be the reason.
Some kitties, instead of just following you, will develop habits like needing affection while eating, or thinking that “play” only happens with you.
INAPPROPRIATE ELIMINATION
If your single cat is “going” outside of the litter box and there’s no obvious reason (he’s not sick, for example), it could be out of boredom or frustration. Again, if cats don’t have another cat to play with, and they aren’t getting your attention, they will seek out even negative attention tactics.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Most adoption shelters these days don’t like to adopt out single cats. They prefer to either adopt them in pairs or to send a new kitten to a home where it will have a cat sibling to play with. Often at shelters you can ask about “bonded” pairs or at least two cats that the staff knows already get along well with each other.
At home, if you have a single cat, consider adopting a second, especially if your cat is still young. Otherwise, you might consider trying to play with your cat more often, adding a “catio” for entertainment, and including lots of toys and cat trees too.
Have more questions? Come and see us at 2851 1/2 North Avenue in Grand Junction, Colorado. J&M Aquatics is your pet store with the Pet Professionals!