Is your feline friend acting a bit peculiar lately? Perhaps exhibiting behaviors that seem… doubled? You might be witnessing the subtle signs that your cat is secretly part of a bonded pair, even if you only see one cat! Bonded pairs are two cats that have formed a close, affectionate relationship, and sometimes, one cat can carry the torch for both.

One telltale sign is excessive grooming. While all cats groom themselves, a cat representing a bonded pair might groom themselves more meticulously, almost as if they're grooming an invisible companion. This could manifest as spending an unusually long time cleaning specific areas or exhibiting a rhythmic, repetitive grooming pattern.

Another clue lies in their sleeping habits. Does your cat often curl up in a specific spot, leaving a noticeable space beside them? This could be a subconscious reservation for their absent partner. They might even exhibit twitching or purring in their sleep, suggesting they're dreaming of cuddling with their feline friend.

Pay attention to their vocalizations too. A cat in a secret bonded pair might meow or chirp more frequently, seemingly addressing someone who isn't there. These vocalizations might be softer and more intimate than their usual calls, resembling a private conversation.

Finally, observe their playfulness. A cat representing a bonded pair might engage in solo play with an unusual intensity, mimicking the games they would play with their companion. They might chase imaginary objects, wrestle with invisible foes, or even groom a favorite toy as if it were their bonded partner.

While these signs are not definitive proof, they offer intriguing insights into your cat's secret life. Perhaps they are longing for a feline friend, or maybe they are simply carrying the memory of a past bond. Whatever the reason, observing these behaviors can deepen your understanding of your cat's complex emotional world. Published October 26, 2023.