Should I get another kitten for Boomer?

by Hannah
(Chicago)

I just turned 20 and I live alone, work full time, and my boyfriend lives with me when he is not at school in the summer. I just adopted a five-month-old kitten from my local shelter. He is very playful, friendly and curious - not shy at all.

The only thing about Boomer (the new kitten) is that I feel bad leaving him alone and getting lonely. I have had cats before - both of them being solo cats who were raised alone and lived content solitary lifestyles.

When I had the other cat, I was home a bit more frequently and my mom was home 80% of the day. I've never owned 2 at once. I am gone for 10 hours most weekdays and home on weekends.

Boomer and I play for at least a 4 hours when I'm home from work every day before I have to go to bed. My mom stops in and visits him for about 30 mins when she can (about 2-3 times a week).

I also am home 70% of the weekend with him playing and just hanging out. I currently live in a small apartment, similar to a studio. He does not seem lonely yet but I've only had him for 1.5 weeks.

I am seriously considering getting a companion but I'm worried about them not having a ton of space and if they will get along/be happy. All I want is for my pet to be happy.

I know introducing another cat is difficult as the cats grow older so if possible I want to do it within a couple of months.

Does anyone have any advice on getting 2 cats? Pros and cons? How long I should wait before another one? Do I need another one?

I don’t necessarily want 2 cats but if it significant upgrades his life then I would. It's a personal and financial responsibility.

I'm young and I am still going to school, and still working on building up my bank account. Please share your opinion on what it's like having 2 cats and whether Boomer needs a brother.