“Should I get another cat?” If you have a cat in your home, you’ve probably asked yourself this question at some point.

It is true that many cats benefit from having a cat companion. Although cats are considered solitary animals, they are pack animals and can thrive by building close relationships with other animals.

Certain changes in behavior, such as irregular sleeping, eating, or grooming habits, may indicate that a cat is lonely and could benefit from some feline companionship. That said, if you notice a change in your cat’s behavior, don’t take it for granted that he needs a friend, cautions Marilyn Krieger, a Certified Cat Behavior Consultant and owner of the website TheCatCoach.com. “Whenever you see different behaviors, it’s very important to take your cat to the vet to make sure there’s nothing physically wrong,” she says.

If you’re thinking of bringing home another cat and your vet thinks it’s a good idea, here are 7 signs that your cat might benefit from some feline companionship.Stick to you.

If your cat meows excessively, follows you around, and doesn’t usually leave you alone, it could be a sign that it needs more socialization, says Pam Johnson-Bennett, a certified cat behavior consultant and owner of Cat Behavior Associates in Nashville. This “needy” behavior could indicate separation issues, she says.Changing licking habits

Johnson-Bennett says: “If you notice that your cat looks a little fluffy and doesn’t groom herself often,” it could be a sign that your cat is feeling lonely or sad. Excessive grooming can be a form of self-soothing, but it can also be a sign that your cat is benefiting from a companion. However, if your cat exhibits unusual grooming habits, don’t assume it’s lonely, she warns. It can also indicate a physical condition.Eating too much or too little

Is your cat eating more than usual? This could be a sign of boredom or lack of social stimulation. “Just like people, a cat may turn to food because there’s nothing else to do,” says Johnson-Bennett. “Or the cat may not eat as much because she or he may start to become depressed. However, changes in eating habits can also signal health problems, so be sure to bring this up with your veterinarian.disruptive behavior

When you’re out and about, if your cat starts knocking things over or tearing up furniture, it could be a sign of boredom or loneliness. “If there’s nothing to do and no one to play with, cats will find things,” says Johnson-Bennett. “Because they’re predators, they’re born to migrate and discover.”Problems with garbage

Unusual littering habits can also be a sign of stress or loneliness, says Johnson-Bennett. If your previously trained kitten starts moving around the rest of the house, you should definitely mention the change to your veterinarian. “Cats are very habitual animals, and they send us very good signals,” she says. “When they change their routine, it’s like a flashing neon sign.”Unusual Sleeping Habits

A change in sleeping habits could mean loneliness. Johnson-Bennett says:- “If this cat is sleeping a lot and no longer interacting with you, it’s probably because he’s so lonely he’s a little depressed.” But, as with any other change in habits, it’s important to rule out medical problems first.Overall energy transformation

Like humans, cats can become lethargic when they’re bored, lonely or depressed, Krieger says. If you notice your cat becoming listless and lethargic, it could be a sign that he would benefit from having a feline friend around. However, Krieger notes that a cat friend may not be the only solution. Your cat may just need more interaction with her human companion or more enrichment toys to keep her busy.Important considerations for rehoming a new cat

Getting another cat in your home should be a careful and gradual process. While cats are very social, they are also territorial and may be angry at the presence of a new cat at first. Krieger says: “We don’t do well if someone comes right into our house and takes over.” “It’s the same with cats. She suggests putting the second cat in a different room at first and gradually introducing him to your first cat. Also, when choosing a second cat, make sure it has a similar temperament and energy to your first cat.