The cat next door was killed in a road accident at the weekend. My cat appears to be pining. What should I do ? Should I get him another friend?

I’ve had that happen before, only it was my dog that died and my cat was very depressed for a long time. All the cat’s i’ve had were very much like people, and your poor thing must be grieving big time. I wouldn’t get him a new friend (at least not right away). Be affectionate and overtly kind to him (play with him a lot). Just as with people, we need time to mourn but we can’t get caught up in our pain. If a friend dies, it’s not like tomorrow we will go and find a new friend. Give him/her some time, and if he doesn’t perk up in a few weeks to a month, I’d get him a new friend. But be careful with that, because some cats who lose a close friend become very aggressive to other cats.

If you decide to get another cat the better alternative would be a female as two males might view each other competetively.

Also a kitten or young cat (6–8 months) with a more docile temperament might be better received.

Introduce them gradually and (obviously) make sure the female is spayed.

Good luck. You could also ask the adoption coordinator at the shelter which cats they have that might be a good match for him.

BTW

Welcome to Fluther :)

I would, they are like us they i believe they grieve too.