Hi Chill, Cybervet and other' s. I need some advice - need to be as informed as possible. For many years I had 4 cats (all rescued and strays). They all travelled to Europe with me when I worked there for 4 years, and all 4 returned to sunny South Africa. 2 years ago I had to euthanase one, over 20 years old, and kidney failure. All are on renal diets and monitired every 3 months by the vet. Last week the time came for 1 of the twins (hand reared as strays from 1 day of age) to also go to kitty heaven at 18 years of age - abosolutely traumatic. Her sister (18) and another old girl who turns 20 nearly next year - have each other - sleep together, plod around the garden together - both are calling for their pal, but are slowly settling as they have each other. I know the times comes for us all, and although the 2 are " healthy"  and checked - renal impairment is visible, and controlled - but for how long. Where I want some thoughts - as they have never been seperated, and at least still have each other - what happens when the next one goes. I want to cause them the least trauma after a happy life. What is best for them - not me. Options: 1. when 1 goes, do I euthanase the other to spare her being alone at this old age. 2. Do I rescue 2 small kittens now - (am happy to take on little ones that need hand rearing) so that one day the remaining one will have friends - or is it too stressful for the old girls. 3. Or when only 1 remains - do I bring in 2 kittens - this option I feel will be stressful - as they lose a friend, and get 2 hooligans in. What are your thoughts? Hopefully any decision is still a while away, but one needs to evaluate what is best for our furry friends.