2 male kittens vs. 3 for peaceful household

by Merlene
(Washington)

I recently adopted a male manx kitten who is 3 months old. My sister's cat had a litter of kittens, and I want to adopt one or two when they are old enough (right now they around 4 weeks old).
We think the kittens are all male. All kittens will be neutered. I'm trying to figure out if there will be more spraying issues with three male cats vs two male cats. Also, would having a non-related male and a pair of brothers be a bad combination? I'd appreciate your opinion on this so I can make a good adoption decision. I'm quite attached to my little manx, Stubbs, and I'd like to get him a companion to play with while I'm at work all day.
I have a basset mix dog, but he is indoor/outdoor and is separated from the cat during the day since I don't want the kitten outside (busy street).
By the way, we're having the mom spayed once she is done nursing the kittens to prevent another litter.
Thanks for your advice!

RESPONSE:

Cute Kittens! I bet Stubbs is a handful! Deciding to increase your cat family by 1 or 2 is really a personal choice. Cats "spray" for a variety of reasons and both males and females will do it. So, just having 3 male cats will not necessarily make spraying more of an issue. As long as you have plenty of room, high places and hiding spots, that allow them to get away from each other and be alone if they want to, you should be fine. They need this once they reach full maturity (around 2 years of age).

They are all young enough that having 2 that are brothers and 1 that is not related shouldn't be an issue either. At first, they may not seem to get along but over time they should adapt to each other just fine. When we brought in Samantha and Spencer (brother and sister), Jerry, the lone kitten, hissed and acted like he didn't like them but now they all play together like they have always known each other. The three learned to accept Jasper and Joey (brothers) after a few days as well. Little Hanna is our newest addition and it took about a week for the rest of the kittens to start playing with her but she is starting to fit in as well. They are all 3-4 months old and not all related to each other. The point is, the younger they are, the more easily they adapt to new arrivals so you should be fine whether you take in 1 or 2.
The real question you should ask yourself is can you financially and emotionally provide the proper care for 3 cats. They will need your time and attention all of their lives not to mention vet care, food, toys, etc. If you are willing and able, we say follow your heart and do what feels right to you!
Good Luck and have fun with your new babies!

Donna
House Full Cats Mom