For a well-adjusted cat, take two and call me in the morning!

It is AdvoCATs' policy to place kittens in homes with other cats. Why? Cats are, by nature, social creatures, just like humans. While they may not live in big packs like dogs, they still enjoy the company of a friend or two. They can play together, hang out on the couch, and groom each other in the spots they just can't reach on their own.

Kittens, especially, needs feline companionship. Like any immature animal, they need stimulus: activity, play, grooming. Very few of us are home all day to provide this attention to a new kitten. We have jobs, children, activities, and other committments that keep us out of the house for hours at a time. Plus, there's all that sleep time we need! Having a companion for your kitten means she has someone to be with her when you can't.

In general, cats, like all other sentient beings need to relate to their own species. Kittens, after leaving their mother and siblings and adopted as an only kitten have few if any opportunities to interact with their own kind. Not only can they become destructive out of loneliness or boredom, they can and almost always become fearful of other animals, including humans and other cats. Yes, these cats do grow up to love their people a lot. But they tend to be petrified of other humans. They hide the moment the doorbell rings and won't come out until guests are gone. If another cat is brought into the house, they may be either aggressive toward or frightened of the newcomer. Changes in the environment can cause emotional problems like loss of appetite, obsessive cleaning, or litterbox problems. The term often used to describe this kind of cat-behavior is "territorial."

As you consider whether to adopt a cat, remember that two is a wonderful number. There is very little difference in the care and feeding of two cats over one: one big bowl of dry food, one big bowl of water, one good-sized litterbox (depending on the size of your home), and individual portions of moist food and/or treats.

Where you'll notice the difference is in your trips to the vet, but it's more than worth it. Your little charges will develop their own unique personalities while they play, sleep, clean, and eat together. And you can go to work knowing they're not alone.

Here are some pages with great reasons why two is better than one!

• PetFinder When Two Cats are Better than One
• About.com on Cats 10 Reasons why 2 are better than 1
• Torre Animal Shelter Two are Better than One