While they are known for their independence, cats can form strong bonds with each other.
Are you a new cat owner who is wondering what happens if you separate bonded cats? Let’s find out!
How Do Cats Become Friends?
Cats have their unique way of building friendships. They don’t just walk up and start playing like dogs might. Instead, cats need time to get to know each other.
When two cats are bonded together, they begin spending time together and can show the following behaviors.
Mutual Grooming
They might groom each other, which is a sign of trust and affection. Grooming helps them to get comfortable with each other’s scent and builds their companionship.
Sharing Food
Sharing food is another way cats show they are friends. In the wild, food is precious, and sharing it is a big deal. When your cats eat together without hissing or growling, it’s a good sign they’re becoming buddies.
Playing Together
Playing is also a crucial part of friendship for cats. They might chase each other, pounce, or, in the case of male cats, even have a gentle wrestling match.
Play helps them to communicate, learn boundaries, and build trust. Just watch to make sure their play stays friendly and doesn’t turn into a real fight.
Sitting Near Each Other
Some cats prefer to show their friendship by simply sitting near each other. They might not snuggle up together, but being in the same room is their way of saying they enjoy each other’s company.
Why Would You Need To Separate Bonded Cats?
There are moments when the bonded partners may need to live apart. This could happen for various reasons.
Logistical Reasons
For instance, if a family has to move to a new home, and the new place has rules that don’t allow pets, the bonded cats may need to find different homes. It’s not an easy situation, but sometimes it’s necessary to follow these housing rules.
Illness
Another reason for separation could be health concerns. If one of the cats falls ill with a contagious disease, it might be risky to keep them together.
Diseases like the feline leukemia virus or upper respiratory infections can spread from one cat to another. So, it becomes necessary to separate the cats for a length of time.
Behavioral Issues
Cats have unique personalities, and sometimes they just don’t get along. They might fight, hiss, or even hurt each other. This can be stressful and dangerous for them.
In these cases, giving each cat their own space, and resources (food, water & litter box) can help them feel more relaxed and safe.
Stress Issues
Big life changes like a new baby in the family or a new pet can upset a cat. Cats may become stressed by changes in their environment.
If a cat isn’t happy about the new situation, it might be best for them to have a quiet, separate space to adjust at their own pace.
Understanding Cat Separation
Cats build strong bonds with each other, especially if they were littermates, were adopted together, or raised together. When a bonded pair of cats is separated, it can be a tough time for them.
Signs of Loneliness and Fear
Cats are known for being independent, but they do get attached to other cats and even to their human families. If two cats in a bonded pair are separated, they might exhibit signs of loneliness or fear.
You may hear them meowing more than usual, as if they’re calling out for their friend. They might also start hiding in quiet spots around the house, trying to find shelter because they feel scared without their companion.
Changes in Behavior
Cats can become depressed or lethargic when separated from their feline companions. A kitten that used to love chasing toys or playing with you might not seem interested anymore.
They might spend more time sleeping or just sitting around. These are signs that they’re not feeling their best and could use some extra love and attention.
Physical Health Concerns
Cats bonded together can actually experience physical symptoms when they’re stressed from being separated. They might not feel like eating, which can lead to weight loss or other health issues if it goes on for too long.
In some cases, they might even get sick more easily because stress can make their immune system weaker. It’s crucial to keep an eye on their health during this time and visit the vet if you’re worried.
Comforting Your Cat
When adult cats become bonded, it can be difficult to manage them once they are separated. However, it is quite possible.
The separation can be done slowly, to give them time to adjust to the changes. Start by separating them for short periods and gradually increase the time spent apart.
Spend extra time with your cat to help them feel safe. Provide them with plenty of love and attention.
Offer new toys or treats to encourage play and eating. You can also try setting up cozy spots around the house where they can relax.
Sometimes, bringing in a new feline friend can help, but it’s important to do this slowly to make sure your cat is ready for a new companion.
Monitoring Well-Being
It’s important to keep a lookout for how your kitty is doing after being separated from a friend. If they’re showing signs of physical or behavioral problems, such as stress or excess lethargy, it might be time to get some veterinary advice.
Showcasing Patience
Cats can be quite territorial. If you’re thinking of bringing a new cat into your home, patience is key. Introducing a new cat to your current cat takes time.
At first, they might not seem like friends, but with slow introductions and supervised interactions, they can grow to enjoy each other’s company.
Wrapping It Up
Cats are social creatures. The special relationship between two bonded cats can be tough to break. It can traumatize the cats and lead to behavior issues as well as physical sickness.
However, with enough care on the part of the owner, the cats can overcome these troubles and return back to normality.
