Why Two Cats Are Better Than One: The Benefits of a Companion for Your Ragdoll

Nami & Ari

A common question for cat owners: “Should I adopt a second kitten?” or “Will my Ragdoll get lonely if I’m at work all day?”

The answer? For many families yes, a companion can make a world of difference.

Ragdolls are known for their affectionate, people-oriented nature. But what many don’t realise is that they’re also deeply social creatures and that includes bonding with other cats, not just humans.

Having a second cat, whether it’s another Ragdoll or a calm, compatible breed can provide countless benefits: comfort when you’re away, healthier social development, emotional enrichment, and of course, endless entertainment and cuddles.

However, it’s important to be realistic: there are situations where adding another pet isn’t the right fit, especially if existing animals have challenging temperaments or if your home setup doesn’t support a smooth introduction. We’ll walk you through those cases further down so you can make the best decision for your family and your future kitten.

1. Companionship When You’re Not Around

Ragdolls love being around their humans. But let’s face it, life is busy. Work, school, errands, appointments… even the most devoted cat parent has to step out.

A companion cat fills in the social gaps when you’re not home. It helps reduce separation anxiety, boredom, and the risk of destructive behaviours (like chewing cords, crying at the door, or climbing curtains out of frustration).

For full-time workers or families out of the house for hours at a time, having a feline friend provides constant comfort and stimulation.

2. Better Behaviour Through Play

Kittens have endless energy, and if they don’t have a suitable playmate, that energy often gets directed at your furniture, feet, or face.

Two kittens keep each other entertained, helping to regulate their activity levels through play fighting, pouncing, and wrestling. They learn boundaries from each other, often faster than from humans alone.

This is especially important in the first year, where social learning is at its peak.

3. Grooming: A Sign of Love and Bonding

One of the most beautiful things about a bonded pair is mutual grooming, also known as allogrooming. This isn’t just about cleanliness, it’s a powerful way cats show affection, trust, and comfort.

You’ll often find a bonded pair licking each other’s faces, ears, or necks. It reduces stress, strengthens their bond, and even helps prevent matting in hard-to-reach areas like behind the ears or under the chin.

A solo cat doesn’t get this kind of social grooming, and while you can help with brushing, you can’t replicate the emotional connection two cats share through this ritual.

4. Smoother Transitions and Settling In

A big move to a new home can be scary. But kittens transitioning with a sibling or a bonded friend often settle faster and exhibit fewer signs of stress.

They feel more secure, adapt quicker to routines, and are less likely to hide for long periods or cry when left alone.

If adopting two from the same litter, you’re also supporting their natural bond and we can help you identify the right pair based on personality and energy.

5. Healthy Social Development

Even if your kitten is the centre of your universe, human interaction isn’t the same as peer interaction. Cats need to learn how to “speak cat” through play cues, body language, grooming, and shared space.

A companion provides ongoing social enrichment that helps shape a more confident, emotionally balanced adult cat.

This is particularly important for indoor cats who won’t be interacting with other animals regularly.

6. Less Neediness, More Emotional Balance

Ragdolls can become quite attached and even clingy when they are the only pet. While their love is beautiful, it can also make independence or boundaries difficult to establish.

Having a second cat helps distribute their emotional needs, making them less dependent on one person for all affection, stimulation, and comfort.

You’ll often find them curled up together, grooming each other, or playing tag around the house which is as heartwarming as it is healthy.

7. Not Just Another Ragdoll

While two Ragdolls can be a dream duo, your second cat doesn’t have to be the same breed. Ragdolls generally get along well with other calm, friendly cats, including breeds like:

• British Shorthair

• Birman

• Scottish Fold

• Persian

• Tonkinese

• Even rescue cats with a gentle temperament

The key is ensuring the second cat matches your Ragdoll’s energy and confidence level and that introductions are handled thoughtfully.

8. Be Prepared for a Slow Introduction

If you already have pets at home, one of the most important factors for success is your willingness to follow a slow, structured introduction process.

Ragdolls are gentle and emotionally sensitive, so rushed introductions can result in fear, tension, or failed bonding. A gradual process involving scent swapping, visual introductions, and step-by-step supervised interaction gives your new kitten and your existing pet the time and space to adjust respectfully.

Before adopting, ensure you have a separate room ready for your new kitten, and set aside at least a few weeks for the bonding process. We’re happy to provide a detailed guide to help set everyone up for success.

9. Long-Term Enrichment

Having a companion is a lifelong benefit, not just a kitten-phase perk. As your cats grow, they’ll continue to bond, play, groom, and nap together, providing one another comfort well into their senior years.

They’ll also be less likely to become bored, lonely, or depressed later in life if their human’s routine changes (think new baby, travel, career shifts).

10. When a Companion Isn’t the Right Fit

While many Ragdolls thrive with a feline friend, some homes may not be suitable especially if they already have pets. Here’s when a companion might not be ideal:

• Aggressive or dominant resident pets: If a dog or cat is territorial or rough, a Ragdoll may become anxious or withdrawn. They rarely defend themselves.

• High-prey-drive dogs: Active dogs that chase or bark at small animals may overwhelm the gentle Ragdoll.

• Existing cats with poor social histories: If a resident cat has shown aggression or stress around others, forcing a new bond may backfire.

• Lack of space for separation: If your home doesn’t allow for gradual introductions, it may be best to wait.

• Chaotic or high-energy homes: Environments with frequent loud noise, guests, or unpredictable routines can unsettle a Ragdoll especially when paired with active pets.

• Pets with resource-guarding behaviour: If your current cat or dog guards food, litter, or space, it may lead to fear or bullying of the Ragdoll.

• Unrealistic expectations: If you’re expecting instant snuggles and harmony, you may be disappointed. All cats (especially Ragdolls) need time, patience, and respect to build trust.

We’re happy to assess your home’s dynamic and offer honest feedback on whether a Ragdoll would thrive as a solo pet or in a multi-animal household.

We know adopting two kittens can feel like a big decision. But ask almost any multi-cat family, and they’ll tell you: it was the best choice they made.

At Purrsace, we’re happy to help you find the right match. Whether that’s two Ragdolls from the same litter, or a gentle companion to complement your existing cat.

Because love is better shared and two purring fluffs are always better than one.