Subscribe | UPI Odd Newsletter Subscribe BOSTON, Oct. 24 (UPI) -- Cats may not be solitary creatures after all; a survey of U.S. veterinarians found animal experts believe many cats are lonely. A survey of 175 U.S. veterinarians conducted by Arm & Hammer found nearly 90 percent believe cats prefer to live in the company of other cats. Advertisement The majority of vets believe social isolation of many cats is becoming a major cause of behavior problems in today's domesticated cats. While most cat owners pride themselves on their pet pampering, the survey found 76 percent of veterinarians believe most cat owners are unaware of the signs of loneliness in their cats. Many owners may not be aware that what a cat may desire most is a cat companion. Stefanie Schwartz, a veterinarian and board-certified veterinary behaviorist at VCA Boston South Shore Animal Hospital, has conducted research on feline depression. She recommends multiple cat ownership and encourages multiple cat adoption. She has begun the CAT-PANION Crusade, a nationwide initiative to promote the physical and psychological benefits of multiple cat ownership.
