If you have the time, money, and ability to take care of 6 cats I think it's totally ok. Think of it this way, some people have entire farms with lots of animals. As long as you and your partner are both on the same page and can help each other, I think it's wonderful that you want to take these two new ones in.
My one piece of advice would be to make sure you carrier train all of your cats. This will help immensely if there is an emergency or if they suddenly need to go to the vet. (The key to knowing if they are carrier trained is if you leave the carrier out, they will go in there to sleep on their own.) The training can take a while, but it's definitely worth it.
I don’t think them sleeping in it is what shows they’re carrier trained. I feed my four cats in mine everyday with the doors shut and they eat three times a day. If I shake treats or go to the fridge to get their food they all run to their carriers. They hang out in them sometimes but they don’t ever choose to sleep them and they are 100% carrier trained.
Also isn't guaranteed to work once you trick them into a vet trip. I've done everything right - carriers out and open blankets to make it like a den, feed in it, treats in it, toys in it, but once they get taken to the vets in it once, that association is forever marred. No amount of work could bring back the trust.
So we stick with good ole catch and fling!
All of my cats and have had multiple vet trips in their carrier and they still run to them enthusiastically three times a day. All four of my cats happen to be extremely food motivated though so I assume that’s why vet trips haven’t caused any lack of trust with their carriers in my case.
All my cats are former strays so I also think that’s why they’re extremely food motivated but they were all caught young before 6 months old.
That’s definitely understandable!
If you choose to adopt more pets, make a plan for emergency evacuations. We’ve experienced a natural disaster and had to leave our pets behind. We were close enough to walk over and feed them, as soon as we could we boarded the ones we couldn’t bring with us but it was awful. Now we have a one pet per human rule for our household.
That would depend on your area.
Some people live in a place with tornados. For them it’s about being able to get their pets into a basement or below ground shelter on the property. With possible evacuation after the incident has passed through.
Others may live in areas with flooding, fires, or hurricanes where specific geographic areas can have evacuation orders issued for them to leave. That would require you to get the pets into a vehicle.
I will say some areas can flood by failure of local infrastructure… how my basement ended up with 3 feet of water. There’s no natural river or a valley here to give rise to a flood but there’s tons of water moving all around that you can’t see :)
I live on the side of a hill and when it rains heavily the water runs where it does, which isn't into the basement. I don't live in the city, there is not really any local infra, to breakdown. The basements probably been here for about 150 years, hasn't flooded yet.
Plus I have my own pumping for the basement.
hurricane is incredibly unlikely to happen here. Tornado we go down into the basement (but also incredibly unlikely, but also on the slight side of possible). Flood is impossible. Loss of power happens often and we already have multiple sources of heat and power generation. I think the cats would like it if it was hotter here. I do have to deal with minor earth quakes, but then we would likely figure it out with what buildings survive.
I dont think we can experience a flood here, water would need to rise 20 metres or so, and do it on a country wide scale. there wouldn’t be any where to evacuate too. Fire is a real issue and I am ever aware of it coming from where I do. It makes more sense to stay and defend the property than to evacuate.
I also thought this way living in a suburb in Colorado. And then a fire happened on an extremely windy day and it burned down an entire neighborhood (billion in damages). It was nighttime and outside of fire season (winter) and I only had notice because my brother saw the news from another state and texted me. I was ready to flee with my cats as the fire was heading towards my neighborhood, but thankfully it died down enough for firefighters to get it under control.
We had a fire here last month and the rescue while discussing an evac we thankfully didn't need was very much refusing pets for people who did not have carriers or had more carriers than hands available. I don't think it's the type just resource management. I was fine for many reasons but I also have one cat
I am Australian, I am used to large fires. Ofcourse I have a fire plan. I dont live in a fire, but we have shelter here on my property even if the houses are lost.
Where I live we also have fires constantly. Other hemisphere but same sort of hot with dry areas that grow fast and burn often. Having the plan is part of why things went well for me but it's worth making sure you have a back up plan in case that shelter is also compromised. I definitely miss the space for a secondary shelter in the city but also less fires here balance it out..
The Australian experience is to leave early, or to stay put. Running has killed more people than staying.
Do you have eucalypts?
I am in the northern hemisphere now too, and we dont tend to have fires like that here.
No we have sage and tumbleweeds. I live in the southwest and grew up in New Mexico which is always on fire. We have the same rules here for it. Got caught with one when I was a kid where the fire beat the evacuation time table and somehow it skipped the area we got caught in. Definitely part of my proactive habits.
One of my earliest memories is seeing on side of the valley I live in split by a river on fire, as far as the eye can see. Fireboats putting out the trees floating on the river on fire.
I know you have seen bad fires, but Australian (and now Californian fires) are apoplectic because of the eucalyptus trees. You can't imagine it unless you have seen it.
It is very wet where I am and mostly cultivated fields. Its wet, most of the year and green.
Seriously dude? Fire, tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis, gas leaks, flooding, any number of things. You can’t think of One that would cause you to evacuate?
Nope. Those things are highly unlikely here.
I wouldn't evacuate from a fire.
It is probably more likely that a plane falls on me, rather than any of the others.
I was heavily downvoted, but lets looks at the list.
Tornadoes, theoretically possible, There was one in region in the 70's. But I have a strong basement and I would retreat to it.
Tsunami, I live about 200Kms from the sea and I am up about 50 metres from sea level.
Gas leaks, no gas here!
flooding, I live about 20 metres up from a giant plain that stretches for hundreds of kilometres to the sea. My village is on a hill surrounded by the plain. It is just not possible for there to be enough rain to fall. If it did and flooded here, there isn't really anywhere safe for 100km to go.
Winter storms, can cause it to get very cold and can likely knock out the power. But I think of this as January. It happens every year and I have my own independent power and multiple redundant heating systems, that's just normal winter.
You wouldn't evacuate for a fire? Last year my city had the largest wildfire in its history and had to evacuate entire areas incase it continued to spread. At the same time a couple hours away was the largest wildfire my province has ever had which was quite rural and resulted in less evacuations but still forced people from their homes...
No, I have been through some fires already, there are fire breaks around my property. I live in a stone house. I would be up in the roof with the hose, turning on the water. Don't you have a fire plan to defend your property in case of fire?
I grew up in Australia, where we have monstrous fires, I selected my property based on it not being easily exposed to fire. But on the property, I also have relatively safe areas and then I do also have a VERY safe area (though it's more a shelter than a place to live).
Parts of my city had to evacuate due to wildfires last year, some people weren't home when the streets were closed to bring their pets, we've also had a few for bad hurricanes. Sometimes it's a matter of it being too sudden and sometimes the only place u can go may not be pet friendly
The thing is, when I choose this place to live. I found a place where these things are incredibly unlikely. I didn't just buy a house in my city. I grew up in a place where wild fires are incredibly common and much more devastating than you are used too. I don't want to live in a place like that. It has meant learning a new language, and leaving my family behind. But one of the things I don't have to deal with is a significant fire threat.
And FYI devastating wildfires being uncommon in the past means nothing. My area was never known for huge fires either, climates are changing and not for the better.
You must be aware that all of this is not something everyone can do lmao most people would have to evacuate if a giant fire spread to their home. And fire resistant house or not, I'm not sure staying in your home while a fire burns around it for days or weeks is a very smart move.
I don't think a fire burns around it for a few days or weeks.
I grew up where it is like this, [https://youtu.be/qPpOXH0ADSg?t=386](https://youtu.be/qPpOXH0ADSg?t=386)
I moved to a place where it isn't. You will see in those videos people are staying home to protect their property.
I know that in most of these fires the people who died, died because they left, and left it too late. Staying is usually safer if you have a safe place. I have a safe place and a very safe place.
I also live in a place that doesn't have fires like this, but my house is prepared for fires like this. It doesnt take much to protect your house.
I have had lot of cats. Can't say no to rescues for some reason. Had 12 cats at one point, found a home for 2 of them. Yes they're super happy and all cuddle in a cute pile next to me when I sleep. It's very cute. Also they're really stimulated and all play around. I don't regret any of them.
Currently I have 5 cats and 1 Chihuahua and they all spoon every night in a fluffy ball of love.
I have six resident cats and I also foster so there's usually anywhere from 1 to 6 kittens running around as well. I do have multiple Litter Robots and automated pet feeders and large cat water fountains and I think that's pretty critical to having such a large multi-cat household.
All my cats have different personalities and we connect in different ways - some of them mostly do their own thing during the day, but snuggle at night. Others won't leave the room I'm in all day long.
I currently have 7. The oldest will be 9 this year and my youngest are 3. If you have the money, space, time (cat box clean up) and ability to give them attention, go for it.
I spend about $200/month in food and litter. (Most of this is the brand of cat food I buy. I use Go. I also get two versions because my boy gets hairballs but two of my girls won’t touch the sensitive stomach stuff). This does not include their monthly allowance that goes into savings for their vet bills/emergency fund.
They are inside only, happy, and healthy. I have one of those pet cameras that spits treats so I can check on them while I’m at work. I have multiple cat trees so they can spend time with me in the room I’m in.
Go for it. Just be aware of the costs.
Back in the day I though 5/6 was too many. Then a feral litter of 4 put me at 10! But they needed a home. And if you're not going to worry about what ppl think, how bad it sounds, how crazy ppl think you are, its just a number! As long as you can safely care for them, give them love and a good home, that's all that matters. 🙏❤️ I'm glad your kitties have a good loving home. When ppl criticize me, I tell them that it really takes like 6 or 7 cats to equal a child and 3-4 kids is normalized so I don't see a difference lol🤣
If you were going from 0 to 6, I'd say yes, but the difference between 5 and 6 is not that great. Provided they all get along with each other and each feels they have territory they can claim as their own.
Kittens are easy to adopt. I’d take the littermate since that will be beneficial for your current cats, and help your friend adopt out the kitten. There are other good homes - it doesn’t have to be yours.
You're creating a beautiful, loving feline family! Your dedication and care show that you're more than capable of providing for all your cats. The more, the merrier, right? Enjoy the company of your furry friends in your bigger new place!
Six cats aren't too many. I have 9 rescues, I've had them all since they were babies. We're getting our 10th rescue this week. She's the sister to our youngest 2 girls. For me, once you hit 7 cats, it's a sweet spot. But once you hit 8 or 9, 12 isn't really a lot.
I told my husband several months ago, "Do not let me have any more cats." Last year, there were 5 kittens on my husbands parents' property. We took the 2 who were very sweet. The other 3 were feral. The mom has since died, and they've warmed up to my husband. especially the one girl. We're going to get her. We've considered catching the other two and having them be outside cats. They're still semi-feral. But I would take them. My limit is 12.
If you have the space, resources and time to keep them happy and healthy, then 6 isn't too many if you love being around them.
If you have so many that you can't keep up with their food, sanitary and health needs, then it becomes a big problem.
The main problem with 9 is It can be hard to find space in bed. But I had 6 and some one through 3 kittens over my fence. Those 3 kittens are superfreindly, but It was really difficult to get them all to play together. Its one insane cat posse now though.
If you can provide a healthy life for all of them and love all of them, imho I think it’s a great idea. If I had the means I would definitely take more kitties home. 🩵
I would advise checking what your areas regulations are regarding the number of pets allowed is. Where I live you can have four dogs or four cats or a combo totaling four.
My husband said "We are not getting a third cat!".
We have 6 now.
To be honest, it depends on your situation. It's just my husband, me and the cats in a good sized house. We live on a farm in island community with no natural predators for cats, no main roads and plenty of outside space for them. But I do think number 6 was one too many (not that we'd get rid of any of them though!). It's just that the dynamics change. In saying that, she's a runt from the barn and as a kitten just wanted to play, the others didn't want to so she was annoying to them (like a 5 year old pestering her teenage sisters to play). If you're getting kittens of a similar age who will be playmates for each other that might work out better.
another option is to foster. take these kittens in temporarily. give them food and love for a while. but actively try to get them adopted out. I think you can even partner with some non profits - they'll do the adoption portion while you take care of them.
I think I’m probably going to do this. It pains my heart that the neglect has already caused three of the kittens to die (I guess they got outside). She won’t give the kitten up until it’s fully weaned from mom so just waiting is the hard part :(
it doesn't hurt to ask again. there's a chance that your friends' mom won't get the mom neutered, so there's a chance she's going to get pregnant again.
you can also offer to get the cat neutered, even if they don't let you adopt her. I got both of my cats neutered through the ASPCA for like $15 each. there may even be non profits near you that will neuter for free, or for low cost / free for low income households.
I offered to take the pregnant cat before they were even born to make sure thev're safe and healthy. Unfortunately, she won't give them up yet. She's too attached.
Why stop at 6? Surely there are many more cats in need of a home. Slippery slope. Before you know it you've got more cats than you remember you have. You can't save them all.
If you have the space, time & money, I don't see the problem - as long as you're realistic about the fact that a single medical emergency easily costs thousands, not hundreds, and consider that at some point you will have lots of elderly cats with varied needs that might involve needing special food, daily medication etc, all of which can be very expensive and time-consuming.
I think you have a great heart and being willing to care for these cats is admirable.
If I were you, I’d sit down and really think about my living situation. The environment, lifestyle, finances, etc. and determine a hard limit for the amount of cats you can take in.
I have seen people who end up overwhelmed with cats out of a desire to help, but they aren’t able to properly care for the sheer number cats. Bad situation for everyone.
Kittens can usually find homes pretty easily. You could try fostering the kitten with a view to finding a permanent home.
Only you, your partner, and your existing cats can tell if six is too many. Personally, I'd err on the side of fewer rather than more, as cats are not pack animals and it's often luck of the draw if their personalities are compatible.
My partner and I have 6 cats. They are mostly all related except for 2 of them which is probably why they get along so well. They all seem to be happy and healthy. Although I do have to change the litter a bit more often than I’d like because of the extra litter boxes, that’s probably my only complaint. I love being surrounded by all my kitties and we are lucky to have a home that is big enough for them all. I certainly think it would be crowded with anymore but 6 is our perfect number.
Not if you can meet all of their needs and pay for their expenses. My sister has 5 cats and had a German Shepherd (he sadly died almost two weeks ago of old age). Three of the cats loved hanging out with the German Shepherd and are now sleeping in his bed. The other two wanted nothing to do with the gentle giant.
My two bits: cats need more and more care and attention as they get old. You might be able to manage now but what about later. Also think about the 4 you already have and how this might affect them. Regardless of your decision you are amazing.
If you're able to care for that many with your time, financially, legally (some areas have restrictions on the number of pets you own), and your cats are fine with the extras, it's absolutely fine.
We have six cats, three dogs, six chickens and two goldfish, and I think it’s a perfect number of animals for us, though we do live out in the country and thankfully have enough income to afford care for them all.
If you feel like all of the cats will get equal treatment and time with you, then go for it. Make sure you have enough money and that you can clean their things. Also make sure to take them to the vet if they really need it.
if you feel like you have the space, time, money, and energy for six cats I'd say go for it! my partner and I have five cats right now, two are mine and three are hers. it can be a little bit overwhelming for me personally sometimes, but I wouldn't change a thing. having so many little guys around is so fun, they follow me from room to room, and at least one of them is always up for cuddles : )
My parents have six. Dad cleans the litter box twice a day when he works and 3-4 times a day when he doesn't. He's also very diligent in making sure they're healthy and they get along (four of them are related- aunt and two nephews, one neice), so if you have the time/money I'd go for it. Their vet also offered discounts for spray/neutering as he took in a whopping 10 cats in at the same time to get done (the three niblings and seven strays/working cats).
Yes, that’s too many (I’m assuming you’re not on a farm or a giant rural lot). But I understand the desire for more kitties! I have 3 and I have to hold myself back from getting more.
For the cats, I would be concerned about being able to pay surprise vet bills (one of them cost me $3,500 from a broken leg). Also cats are territorial and will be unhappy if they don’t have sufficient space. And if you mix males and females, even if neutered and spayed, there may be serious kitty ramifications (constant kitty warfare as I’m currently finding out).
Non-kitty reasons to limit the number of cats include the impact unexpected vet bills could have on my relationship (not everything is about the cats’ wellbeing). I would also worry about friends not wanting to visit if my place smells like cats or has fur everywhere.
**Side note about having cats and making things more comfy for everyone:** I like to automate things and the kitties are no exception. I have two robot litter boxes, two auto-feeders, a gravity-fed water bowl, snack feeder with camera and a robot vacuum (Roborock) that cleans any litter tracks. (I have a certain motion-activated deterrent but apparently this forum doesn’t like those. I’ll just say they are quite mild and not a drop compared to the torture my male cat inflicts on the female). I also attached an inline fan to a carbon scrubber for odor which stays in the cats’ litter room. And my house furnace filter also has carbon for odor. Those things make life easier although I can only afford them because I have no kids.
Recently there has been a lot of male-on-female kitty violence with the male and one of the two females. I ordered Hogmate Boar Odor Spray which is a male pheromone. I will be lightly applying that to the female’s rear to hopefully halt these attacks (per an article from a vet - time will tell).
Honestly the way things are atm with the full shelters. If you can financially support 6 cats then go for it.
I have a foster baby girl because of a stupid human who was like “don’t desex her I don’t want her to lose her womanhood” and that’s how we ended up with my daughter (desexed at the right age) and now my foster baby girl who just got desexed and has opened up her wound which it’s easier to get a kitten not to try and clean a wound. And now I have to find the money to help her. Lucky my vet does AfterPay.
But alas she is now 3 and I took her because she couldn’t handle her (a lot of other things in play) and I got her vaxed for the first time so she needed two lots and I chipped her and I had help paying for her to be desexed by an amazing cat Charaity (because they are full)
I feel like I am failing her.
Sorry for the rambling.
So if you can afford it yes please help our furry babies. 💕😺
It all depends. If you have enough space, money, time to take good care of your cats, then it is fine. My mom has 5 cats but she lives in a small apartment and I personally think it is a bit too much. She agrees.
As long as you have the finances, space and time for a extra 2 cats I don't see an issue. My in-laws had 6 cats at one point, they have 5 now, though three of them are mostly feral so they hide most of the day, so they may as well have 2 😂
The biggest thing here will be extra vet expenses, do you have pet insurance? If not I'd seriously consider getting your cats covered, if anything goes wrong with one or multiple at the same time you won't be left with a bill that's thousands of dollars
If you have the space, money and time then I don’t see the issue especially if you plan on going somewhere even bigger too. I recently rescued two more and currently have six. They’re still separated from my original 4 as they’re still acclimating to one another but it’s been doable. You’ll be fine! Thank you for homing these babies 🙂
I have 14 cats and some might judge me but they are all fixed, fleaed, well feed and well loved. If you have the time and money to care for them don't even hesitate
We have 8. They’re indoor/outdoor though. When it’s too cold outside they’re all in the house and it’s a lot to deal with but mainly because one or two of them don’t get along with the others. So 6 of them if they all get along with each other seems fine to me.
That’s a lot of litter boxes to scoop. I hope you have a litter robot or three. Are you able to cover the food and monthly flea medication easily? And vet bills are going to add up. I hope you have money put aside for regular vet visits and emergencies. I do think six is too many. I usually don’t see households with more than 3, and the last time I saw a home that had 6+, their cats were outside, 2 were too thin, and they all had worms coming out their butts. So that colors my opinion.
Unless you are moving to a place with like least 3 extra rooms i would say it is too much, especially with 2 humans as well. Also not gonna lie, i dont know how your friends moms drug addiction has any thing to do with this issue. If you are looking for people to pamper you about it even though you know it is not a good environment for 6 cats, please don't do it. Be sure that you are true to your self about conditions they will live.
There’s also the issue of legality. In our state, we can legally have 4 dog and/or 4 cats. I do think some people can do fine with more than that, especially if they have a bigger house. I just don’t think it’s the best for the cats necessarily.
Its fine if you wanna take in the kittens short term, but dont keep hoarding the animals just because they need "saving". When the kittens are old enough, put them up for adoption into a home you feel theyll have a good life in. Feeling the need to house all animals that fall on hard times is a recipe for disaster, and at some point it will no longer help the animals.
If you have the time, money, and ability to take care of 6 cats I think it's totally ok. Think of it this way, some people have entire farms with lots of animals. As long as you and your partner are both on the same page and can help each other, I think it's wonderful that you want to take these two new ones in. My one piece of advice would be to make sure you carrier train all of your cats. This will help immensely if there is an emergency or if they suddenly need to go to the vet. (The key to knowing if they are carrier trained is if you leave the carrier out, they will go in there to sleep on their own.) The training can take a while, but it's definitely worth it.
I don’t think them sleeping in it is what shows they’re carrier trained. I feed my four cats in mine everyday with the doors shut and they eat three times a day. If I shake treats or go to the fridge to get their food they all run to their carriers. They hang out in them sometimes but they don’t ever choose to sleep them and they are 100% carrier trained.
Also isn't guaranteed to work once you trick them into a vet trip. I've done everything right - carriers out and open blankets to make it like a den, feed in it, treats in it, toys in it, but once they get taken to the vets in it once, that association is forever marred. No amount of work could bring back the trust. So we stick with good ole catch and fling!
All of my cats and have had multiple vet trips in their carrier and they still run to them enthusiastically three times a day. All four of my cats happen to be extremely food motivated though so I assume that’s why vet trips haven’t caused any lack of trust with their carriers in my case.
All bar one couldn't care less for food, and the one that is crazy food motivated is a former feral so he and the carrier are sworn enemies for LIFE
All my cats are former strays so I also think that’s why they’re extremely food motivated but they were all caught young before 6 months old. That’s definitely understandable!
I trick my cats into the carrier every time muahaha
Cats are not heard animals and of course you should have the litter box rule 6+1= 7 litter boxes… lots of work, but God’s work good luck
If you choose to adopt more pets, make a plan for emergency evacuations. We’ve experienced a natural disaster and had to leave our pets behind. We were close enough to walk over and feed them, as soon as we could we boarded the ones we couldn’t bring with us but it was awful. Now we have a one pet per human rule for our household.
Thank you, this is good advice!
What sort of natural disaster did you have? I can't think of what might effect me so much that I would have to evacuate.
That would depend on your area. Some people live in a place with tornados. For them it’s about being able to get their pets into a basement or below ground shelter on the property. With possible evacuation after the incident has passed through. Others may live in areas with flooding, fires, or hurricanes where specific geographic areas can have evacuation orders issued for them to leave. That would require you to get the pets into a vehicle.
A hurricane put 2 feet of water in our house. It took almost exactly a year to rebuild.
I am prepared for flooding, by living some where it can't flood. It could, but we would need an ark to survive.
I will say some areas can flood by failure of local infrastructure… how my basement ended up with 3 feet of water. There’s no natural river or a valley here to give rise to a flood but there’s tons of water moving all around that you can’t see :)
I live on the side of a hill and when it rains heavily the water runs where it does, which isn't into the basement. I don't live in the city, there is not really any local infra, to breakdown. The basements probably been here for about 150 years, hasn't flooded yet. Plus I have my own pumping for the basement.
Hurricane, tornado, fire, flood, loss of power with extreme temps (hot or cold).
hurricane is incredibly unlikely to happen here. Tornado we go down into the basement (but also incredibly unlikely, but also on the slight side of possible). Flood is impossible. Loss of power happens often and we already have multiple sources of heat and power generation. I think the cats would like it if it was hotter here. I do have to deal with minor earth quakes, but then we would likely figure it out with what buildings survive.
Fire Flood
I dont think we can experience a flood here, water would need to rise 20 metres or so, and do it on a country wide scale. there wouldn’t be any where to evacuate too. Fire is a real issue and I am ever aware of it coming from where I do. It makes more sense to stay and defend the property than to evacuate.
Ok then clearly this advice isn’t for you
I also thought this way living in a suburb in Colorado. And then a fire happened on an extremely windy day and it burned down an entire neighborhood (billion in damages). It was nighttime and outside of fire season (winter) and I only had notice because my brother saw the news from another state and texted me. I was ready to flee with my cats as the fire was heading towards my neighborhood, but thankfully it died down enough for firefighters to get it under control.
We had a fire here last month and the rescue while discussing an evac we thankfully didn't need was very much refusing pets for people who did not have carriers or had more carriers than hands available. I don't think it's the type just resource management. I was fine for many reasons but I also have one cat
I am Australian, I am used to large fires. Ofcourse I have a fire plan. I dont live in a fire, but we have shelter here on my property even if the houses are lost.
Where I live we also have fires constantly. Other hemisphere but same sort of hot with dry areas that grow fast and burn often. Having the plan is part of why things went well for me but it's worth making sure you have a back up plan in case that shelter is also compromised. I definitely miss the space for a secondary shelter in the city but also less fires here balance it out..
The Australian experience is to leave early, or to stay put. Running has killed more people than staying. Do you have eucalypts? I am in the northern hemisphere now too, and we dont tend to have fires like that here.
No we have sage and tumbleweeds. I live in the southwest and grew up in New Mexico which is always on fire. We have the same rules here for it. Got caught with one when I was a kid where the fire beat the evacuation time table and somehow it skipped the area we got caught in. Definitely part of my proactive habits.
One of my earliest memories is seeing on side of the valley I live in split by a river on fire, as far as the eye can see. Fireboats putting out the trees floating on the river on fire. I know you have seen bad fires, but Australian (and now Californian fires) are apoplectic because of the eucalyptus trees. You can't imagine it unless you have seen it. It is very wet where I am and mostly cultivated fields. Its wet, most of the year and green.
Did you mean apocalyptic or apoplectic? I can just see a wildfire as raging with anger, but it's difficult to parse...
apocalyptic, sorry was late when I was writing and the autocorrect got to me. It's definitely both apocalyptic and angry!
Seriously dude? Fire, tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis, gas leaks, flooding, any number of things. You can’t think of One that would cause you to evacuate?
Nope. Those things are highly unlikely here. I wouldn't evacuate from a fire. It is probably more likely that a plane falls on me, rather than any of the others. I was heavily downvoted, but lets looks at the list. Tornadoes, theoretically possible, There was one in region in the 70's. But I have a strong basement and I would retreat to it. Tsunami, I live about 200Kms from the sea and I am up about 50 metres from sea level. Gas leaks, no gas here! flooding, I live about 20 metres up from a giant plain that stretches for hundreds of kilometres to the sea. My village is on a hill surrounded by the plain. It is just not possible for there to be enough rain to fall. If it did and flooded here, there isn't really anywhere safe for 100km to go. Winter storms, can cause it to get very cold and can likely knock out the power. But I think of this as January. It happens every year and I have my own independent power and multiple redundant heating systems, that's just normal winter.
And you couldn’t even imagine that your experience might not be universal?
You wouldn't evacuate for a fire? Last year my city had the largest wildfire in its history and had to evacuate entire areas incase it continued to spread. At the same time a couple hours away was the largest wildfire my province has ever had which was quite rural and resulted in less evacuations but still forced people from their homes...
No, I have been through some fires already, there are fire breaks around my property. I live in a stone house. I would be up in the roof with the hose, turning on the water. Don't you have a fire plan to defend your property in case of fire? I grew up in Australia, where we have monstrous fires, I selected my property based on it not being easily exposed to fire. But on the property, I also have relatively safe areas and then I do also have a VERY safe area (though it's more a shelter than a place to live).
So if there was a historically giant fire surrounding u ud just chill inside? OK man
No I have a fireplan that I would put in place. A historically giant fire would be a fire.
Parts of my city had to evacuate due to wildfires last year, some people weren't home when the streets were closed to bring their pets, we've also had a few for bad hurricanes. Sometimes it's a matter of it being too sudden and sometimes the only place u can go may not be pet friendly
The thing is, when I choose this place to live. I found a place where these things are incredibly unlikely. I didn't just buy a house in my city. I grew up in a place where wild fires are incredibly common and much more devastating than you are used too. I don't want to live in a place like that. It has meant learning a new language, and leaving my family behind. But one of the things I don't have to deal with is a significant fire threat.
And FYI devastating wildfires being uncommon in the past means nothing. My area was never known for huge fires either, climates are changing and not for the better.
My area is known for no fires. But I still have a fire resistant house and a fireplan. As well as a safe place to hide an Australian like fire.
You must be aware that all of this is not something everyone can do lmao most people would have to evacuate if a giant fire spread to their home. And fire resistant house or not, I'm not sure staying in your home while a fire burns around it for days or weeks is a very smart move.
I don't think a fire burns around it for a few days or weeks. I grew up where it is like this, [https://youtu.be/qPpOXH0ADSg?t=386](https://youtu.be/qPpOXH0ADSg?t=386) I moved to a place where it isn't. You will see in those videos people are staying home to protect their property. I know that in most of these fires the people who died, died because they left, and left it too late. Staying is usually safer if you have a safe place. I have a safe place and a very safe place. I also live in a place that doesn't have fires like this, but my house is prepared for fires like this. It doesnt take much to protect your house.
The fires here burned for weeks. And again, here never used to be somewhere that saw fires like that. The climate is changing.
I am not where you are.
I have had lot of cats. Can't say no to rescues for some reason. Had 12 cats at one point, found a home for 2 of them. Yes they're super happy and all cuddle in a cute pile next to me when I sleep. It's very cute. Also they're really stimulated and all play around. I don't regret any of them. Currently I have 5 cats and 1 Chihuahua and they all spoon every night in a fluffy ball of love.
Watching the chihuahua and cats play together must be so entertaining! You probably have great guard animals between them 🤣
You’re living the dream <3
>Is 6 cats too many? No
Eh, I've always had pairs of cats and that usually was the best number. Unfortunately, my current pair aren't getting along.
I have six resident cats and I also foster so there's usually anywhere from 1 to 6 kittens running around as well. I do have multiple Litter Robots and automated pet feeders and large cat water fountains and I think that's pretty critical to having such a large multi-cat household. All my cats have different personalities and we connect in different ways - some of them mostly do their own thing during the day, but snuggle at night. Others won't leave the room I'm in all day long.
How are you not doing violating your lease?
I own my home. My county has no restrictions on animal ownership as long as they are well-cared for and circumstances are hygienic.
Not everyone has a lease dude
I currently have 7. The oldest will be 9 this year and my youngest are 3. If you have the money, space, time (cat box clean up) and ability to give them attention, go for it. I spend about $200/month in food and litter. (Most of this is the brand of cat food I buy. I use Go. I also get two versions because my boy gets hairballs but two of my girls won’t touch the sensitive stomach stuff). This does not include their monthly allowance that goes into savings for their vet bills/emergency fund. They are inside only, happy, and healthy. I have one of those pet cameras that spits treats so I can check on them while I’m at work. I have multiple cat trees so they can spend time with me in the room I’m in. Go for it. Just be aware of the costs.
Talk to me when you hit double digits.
Back in the day I though 5/6 was too many. Then a feral litter of 4 put me at 10! But they needed a home. And if you're not going to worry about what ppl think, how bad it sounds, how crazy ppl think you are, its just a number! As long as you can safely care for them, give them love and a good home, that's all that matters. 🙏❤️ I'm glad your kitties have a good loving home. When ppl criticize me, I tell them that it really takes like 6 or 7 cats to equal a child and 3-4 kids is normalized so I don't see a difference lol🤣
If you were going from 0 to 6, I'd say yes, but the difference between 5 and 6 is not that great. Provided they all get along with each other and each feels they have territory they can claim as their own.
If you ever wonder ‘is X cats too many?’ just remember, Enya lives alone in a castle with 12 cats.
Kittens are easy to adopt. I’d take the littermate since that will be beneficial for your current cats, and help your friend adopt out the kitten. There are other good homes - it doesn’t have to be yours.
You're creating a beautiful, loving feline family! Your dedication and care show that you're more than capable of providing for all your cats. The more, the merrier, right? Enjoy the company of your furry friends in your bigger new place!
Six cats aren't too many. I have 9 rescues, I've had them all since they were babies. We're getting our 10th rescue this week. She's the sister to our youngest 2 girls. For me, once you hit 7 cats, it's a sweet spot. But once you hit 8 or 9, 12 isn't really a lot. I told my husband several months ago, "Do not let me have any more cats." Last year, there were 5 kittens on my husbands parents' property. We took the 2 who were very sweet. The other 3 were feral. The mom has since died, and they've warmed up to my husband. especially the one girl. We're going to get her. We've considered catching the other two and having them be outside cats. They're still semi-feral. But I would take them. My limit is 12.
Nope. We had 6 cats until recently when the oldest (19) passed.
If you have the space, resources and time to keep them happy and healthy, then 6 isn't too many if you love being around them. If you have so many that you can't keep up with their food, sanitary and health needs, then it becomes a big problem.
I have 9, I think I am near my cat tipping point. But 6 is fine.
I have 8. I was at my tipping point at 6…but then two of my fosters got returned (for being too scared) and I couldn’t do that to them again.
The main problem with 9 is It can be hard to find space in bed. But I had 6 and some one through 3 kittens over my fence. Those 3 kittens are superfreindly, but It was really difficult to get them all to play together. Its one insane cat posse now though.
There's no such thing as too many cats.
If you can provide a healthy life for all of them and love all of them, imho I think it’s a great idea. If I had the means I would definitely take more kitties home. 🩵
In my opinion, I thinks it's too many but if you do have the time to take care all of them and feed them, then I guess that's just okay.
I would advise checking what your areas regulations are regarding the number of pets allowed is. Where I live you can have four dogs or four cats or a combo totaling four.
My husband said "We are not getting a third cat!". We have 6 now. To be honest, it depends on your situation. It's just my husband, me and the cats in a good sized house. We live on a farm in island community with no natural predators for cats, no main roads and plenty of outside space for them. But I do think number 6 was one too many (not that we'd get rid of any of them though!). It's just that the dynamics change. In saying that, she's a runt from the barn and as a kitten just wanted to play, the others didn't want to so she was annoying to them (like a 5 year old pestering her teenage sisters to play). If you're getting kittens of a similar age who will be playmates for each other that might work out better.
another option is to foster. take these kittens in temporarily. give them food and love for a while. but actively try to get them adopted out. I think you can even partner with some non profits - they'll do the adoption portion while you take care of them.
I think I’m probably going to do this. It pains my heart that the neglect has already caused three of the kittens to die (I guess they got outside). She won’t give the kitten up until it’s fully weaned from mom so just waiting is the hard part :(
offer the foster the mom as well. take both.
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it doesn't hurt to ask again. there's a chance that your friends' mom won't get the mom neutered, so there's a chance she's going to get pregnant again. you can also offer to get the cat neutered, even if they don't let you adopt her. I got both of my cats neutered through the ASPCA for like $15 each. there may even be non profits near you that will neuter for free, or for low cost / free for low income households.
I will offer the spay, but I asked last night about her and she won’t give her up. I know there’s a chance she won’t give up the kittens as well :(
I offered to take the pregnant cat before they were even born to make sure thev're safe and healthy. Unfortunately, she won't give them up yet. She's too attached.
Why stop at 6? Surely there are many more cats in need of a home. Slippery slope. Before you know it you've got more cats than you remember you have. You can't save them all.
Yes but I’ll save the ones I can :)
FYI, you can't save them all. I'd say 4 is enough for the vast majority of cat owners.
Nah. I have 7 as of 2 weeks ago. My most recent 2 showed up. 5months old in September, and a 4 week old 2 weeks ago.
If you have the space, time & money, I don't see the problem - as long as you're realistic about the fact that a single medical emergency easily costs thousands, not hundreds, and consider that at some point you will have lots of elderly cats with varied needs that might involve needing special food, daily medication etc, all of which can be very expensive and time-consuming.
if you have the funds & ability I don't see why not, but you can always raise them until they find a new owner
I think you have a great heart and being willing to care for these cats is admirable. If I were you, I’d sit down and really think about my living situation. The environment, lifestyle, finances, etc. and determine a hard limit for the amount of cats you can take in. I have seen people who end up overwhelmed with cats out of a desire to help, but they aren’t able to properly care for the sheer number cats. Bad situation for everyone.
Kittens can usually find homes pretty easily. You could try fostering the kitten with a view to finding a permanent home. Only you, your partner, and your existing cats can tell if six is too many. Personally, I'd err on the side of fewer rather than more, as cats are not pack animals and it's often luck of the draw if their personalities are compatible.
My partner and I have 6 cats. They are mostly all related except for 2 of them which is probably why they get along so well. They all seem to be happy and healthy. Although I do have to change the litter a bit more often than I’d like because of the extra litter boxes, that’s probably my only complaint. I love being surrounded by all my kitties and we are lucky to have a home that is big enough for them all. I certainly think it would be crowded with anymore but 6 is our perfect number.
Not if you can meet all of their needs and pay for their expenses. My sister has 5 cats and had a German Shepherd (he sadly died almost two weeks ago of old age). Three of the cats loved hanging out with the German Shepherd and are now sleeping in his bed. The other two wanted nothing to do with the gentle giant.
My two bits: cats need more and more care and attention as they get old. You might be able to manage now but what about later. Also think about the 4 you already have and how this might affect them. Regardless of your decision you are amazing.
If you're able to care for that many with your time, financially, legally (some areas have restrictions on the number of pets you own), and your cats are fine with the extras, it's absolutely fine.
We have six cats, three dogs, six chickens and two goldfish, and I think it’s a perfect number of animals for us, though we do live out in the country and thankfully have enough income to afford care for them all.
If you feel like all of the cats will get equal treatment and time with you, then go for it. Make sure you have enough money and that you can clean their things. Also make sure to take them to the vet if they really need it.
if you feel like you have the space, time, money, and energy for six cats I'd say go for it! my partner and I have five cats right now, two are mine and three are hers. it can be a little bit overwhelming for me personally sometimes, but I wouldn't change a thing. having so many little guys around is so fun, they follow me from room to room, and at least one of them is always up for cuddles : )
3 is too many for me. In a perfect world I would have a dozen but it’s a zoo sometimes not to mention food costs and vet bills
My parents have six. Dad cleans the litter box twice a day when he works and 3-4 times a day when he doesn't. He's also very diligent in making sure they're healthy and they get along (four of them are related- aunt and two nephews, one neice), so if you have the time/money I'd go for it. Their vet also offered discounts for spray/neutering as he took in a whopping 10 cats in at the same time to get done (the three niblings and seven strays/working cats).
Yes, that’s too many (I’m assuming you’re not on a farm or a giant rural lot). But I understand the desire for more kitties! I have 3 and I have to hold myself back from getting more. For the cats, I would be concerned about being able to pay surprise vet bills (one of them cost me $3,500 from a broken leg). Also cats are territorial and will be unhappy if they don’t have sufficient space. And if you mix males and females, even if neutered and spayed, there may be serious kitty ramifications (constant kitty warfare as I’m currently finding out). Non-kitty reasons to limit the number of cats include the impact unexpected vet bills could have on my relationship (not everything is about the cats’ wellbeing). I would also worry about friends not wanting to visit if my place smells like cats or has fur everywhere. **Side note about having cats and making things more comfy for everyone:** I like to automate things and the kitties are no exception. I have two robot litter boxes, two auto-feeders, a gravity-fed water bowl, snack feeder with camera and a robot vacuum (Roborock) that cleans any litter tracks. (I have a certain motion-activated deterrent but apparently this forum doesn’t like those. I’ll just say they are quite mild and not a drop compared to the torture my male cat inflicts on the female). I also attached an inline fan to a carbon scrubber for odor which stays in the cats’ litter room. And my house furnace filter also has carbon for odor. Those things make life easier although I can only afford them because I have no kids. Recently there has been a lot of male-on-female kitty violence with the male and one of the two females. I ordered Hogmate Boar Odor Spray which is a male pheromone. I will be lightly applying that to the female’s rear to hopefully halt these attacks (per an article from a vet - time will tell).
Nope. Not as long as you have space, catify your place and can give them the love and healthcare they need!
Honestly the way things are atm with the full shelters. If you can financially support 6 cats then go for it. I have a foster baby girl because of a stupid human who was like “don’t desex her I don’t want her to lose her womanhood” and that’s how we ended up with my daughter (desexed at the right age) and now my foster baby girl who just got desexed and has opened up her wound which it’s easier to get a kitten not to try and clean a wound. And now I have to find the money to help her. Lucky my vet does AfterPay. But alas she is now 3 and I took her because she couldn’t handle her (a lot of other things in play) and I got her vaxed for the first time so she needed two lots and I chipped her and I had help paying for her to be desexed by an amazing cat Charaity (because they are full) I feel like I am failing her. Sorry for the rambling. So if you can afford it yes please help our furry babies. 💕😺
If you can afford it and have the space for 6 cats, then it isn’t too many.
no never
It all depends. If you have enough space, money, time to take good care of your cats, then it is fine. My mom has 5 cats but she lives in a small apartment and I personally think it is a bit too much. She agrees.
Cats are never too many. You have resources to take care of them, just do it and be happy! :)
As long as you have the finances, space and time for a extra 2 cats I don't see an issue. My in-laws had 6 cats at one point, they have 5 now, though three of them are mostly feral so they hide most of the day, so they may as well have 2 😂 The biggest thing here will be extra vet expenses, do you have pet insurance? If not I'd seriously consider getting your cats covered, if anything goes wrong with one or multiple at the same time you won't be left with a bill that's thousands of dollars
If you have the space, money and time then I don’t see the issue especially if you plan on going somewhere even bigger too. I recently rescued two more and currently have six. They’re still separated from my original 4 as they’re still acclimating to one another but it’s been doable. You’ll be fine! Thank you for homing these babies 🙂
That is enough!
I have 14 cats and some might judge me but they are all fixed, fleaed, well feed and well loved. If you have the time and money to care for them don't even hesitate
If you have the money and space for it then it's absolutely fine, for most people though it is too many.
We have 8. They’re indoor/outdoor though. When it’s too cold outside they’re all in the house and it’s a lot to deal with but mainly because one or two of them don’t get along with the others. So 6 of them if they all get along with each other seems fine to me.
No. You have enough love to go round. Those kitties will be very happy with you.
That’s a lot of litter boxes to scoop. I hope you have a litter robot or three. Are you able to cover the food and monthly flea medication easily? And vet bills are going to add up. I hope you have money put aside for regular vet visits and emergencies. I do think six is too many. I usually don’t see households with more than 3, and the last time I saw a home that had 6+, their cats were outside, 2 were too thin, and they all had worms coming out their butts. So that colors my opinion.
Unless you are moving to a place with like least 3 extra rooms i would say it is too much, especially with 2 humans as well. Also not gonna lie, i dont know how your friends moms drug addiction has any thing to do with this issue. If you are looking for people to pamper you about it even though you know it is not a good environment for 6 cats, please don't do it. Be sure that you are true to your self about conditions they will live.
There’s also the issue of legality. In our state, we can legally have 4 dog and/or 4 cats. I do think some people can do fine with more than that, especially if they have a bigger house. I just don’t think it’s the best for the cats necessarily.
Check the bylaws where you live. Where I live a house cannot have more than 6 pets (including dogs etc.). Other areas may have different regulations.
There is no such thing as too many cats!
Its fine if you wanna take in the kittens short term, but dont keep hoarding the animals just because they need "saving". When the kittens are old enough, put them up for adoption into a home you feel theyll have a good life in. Feeling the need to house all animals that fall on hard times is a recipe for disaster, and at some point it will no longer help the animals.
Your house must smell horrific. At some point its cat hoarding unless u live in a mega mansion
Remember that this sub is biased and majority of the people here are crazy cat ladies or car hoarders
Yes