We are Betsy and Ross. We were recently adopted by a nice couple and they give us lots of attention and love. Our problem is that sometimes we get a little lonely for our mama and the other kittens in our litter. Now it is just the two of us kitties.

Can you give us some advice how to handle our anxieties over this change in our lives?

Betsy and Ross

Dear Betsy and Ross,

Your names give me a little clue to the character of your new people. They are very creative and clever, indeed. I am very happy to read that you are well loved and taken care of in your new home. It is also apparent they did some research before adopting the two of you.

Hands down, the advice on kitten adoption favors adopting in pairs if the kittens are under six months old. That just makes a lot of sense and goes a long way in relieving loneliness, anxiety, and even boredom.

Kittens are just naturally curious little critters, and you two can keep each other company as you do what comes naturally – chasing tails (your own), snooping into everything, and then snuggling up together for a good nap. I do have a few words of caution here. “Leave the toilet paper alone.”

You must also learn how to interact with your humans without scratching and biting your way through a play session. Of course, scratching and biting each other is allowable since you instinctively know how not hurt each other. An excellent organization, Homeward Trails gives a good insight into the value of adopting two kittens together. Just to give you an idea, the headline reads Mother Nature knew what she was doing when she created kittens in litters!”

Keeping the two of you together reduces the need for your humans to provide constant entertainment. You can be happy to know that you are providing them with that! Remember that climbing the drapes and eating the plants will not be looked upon as entertaining. That is where the importance of chasing each other, attacking the tail of your litter mate, and rolling around until you look like one big fur-ball is not only helping you relieve boredom and anxiety, you are quickly working your way deeper into their hearts. When you go from chaotic wrestling to a quiet nap in the matter of seconds, you are providing them with an amazing insight into the ways of the kitten.

Cats are often looked upon as aloof and self-sufficient. Not so. Boredom is a big factor in your learned behavior. According to Paws and Purrs, the fact that you have each other as playmates will help keep you out of mischief. Left single and apart from each other, your tendencies might turn from cute play to utter destruction.

Your task is to provide non-destructive entertainment for your humans and each other.
In return, your humans will relish playtime that also includes them. You will likely get showered with new toys and many games will develop between all parties. Your moments of anxiety will disappear as you look forward new discoveries and rewards. If you are really good, your humans might even consider leash training so they can take you out for walks in the neighborhood and show you off to their community. Believe me – that is not boring! Keep in mind that you are home now.

Your friend,

Fisher

published in tbt Tampa Bay Out There weekend edition