06/28/2026
Solo Kitten Syndrome is a very real thing. Kittens need feline interactions to help them learn that things like biting and scratching, even in play, HURT. When my partner and I were offered a kitten from a surprise litter (some friends had taken in a stray), we knew our senior kitty wouldn't want to be their main playmate, so we chose to adopt two so they could help each other learn appropriate socialization. It worked FABULOUSLY! Now we have two well-socialized nuggets who turn one tomorrow.
Often when people go to adopt a kitten, they are only looking for one single kitten. While solo kittens are super cute, did you know raising a single kitten can lead to something called Solo Kitten Syndrome?
Kittens learn important life skills—like bite control, play boundaries, and how not to karate-chop ankles—from their siblings - Solo kittens, also, miss out on crucial kitty lessons, which can lead to behavior problems later in life
That’s why we always recommend adopting kittens in pairs when possible. Twice the love... twice the purrs... and far less ankle ambushes. Win-win! They keep each other busy and entertained so they do not have to chew on you.
Next time you're tempted to adopt a single floof, consider giving them a best friend. Your furniture and fingers (and ankles) will thank you!
Also, it my hope.... that you will not write rescues years from now, asking them to take on your killer behavioral cat that was adopted as a solo kitten, who bites you in your sleep and sends you to the ER once a year 😀
Please adopt young kittens in pairs..... Or adopt teenagers who are already socialized.... OR adopt adult cats (who already know who they are)!
Or even better ask the rescue to match you with a cat that fits your home and lifestyle... Match-making is one of my favorite parts of rescue ❤️🙌
