Should I get my cat a companion?

Hi everyone! I've lurked on this site before, but this is my first post!

I'm considering getting a new companion for my cat Noodles (2yo neutered male) since my cat Currie died a month ago.

My two cats have been living with a friend until I get an apartment, but unfortunately one recently passed away from stress-related illness. Noodles has started to knock things over and "complain" to my friends. He did that already when he would get bored, but now that his kitty companion is gone he's not taking it so well. I got them when they were 2 & 3 months old so he grew up with a cat around to play with. Since I will be going back to school full time in fall I worry he'll be unhappy by himself while I'm gone.

My question is will another cat make him happy? Or will it just stress him out? He'll already be moving to a new home, adding a new cat to the mix sounds like it'd add stress rather than relieve it. Maybe it would help prevent territory disputes?

I'm moving in at the end of August. My current thought is to move in all of the furniture, then the cat, then see how he is after that point. I just don't know if that's waiting too long.

I also don't know what sort of cat I would get as a buddy. Boy or girl? Younger or older? I haven't had to integrate a new cat before.

I just want my remaining cat to be as happy as possible. Any advice is greatly appreciated!

Hi @Neecolaa and welcome to TCS! 

I'm sorry it's taken a while for a reply.

This is always such a tricky question as no-one really can give you a definitive answer.  But it it were me I think I'd be getting another cat.

When you move, take things with Noodle's scent on it and I'd be tempted to set up a Feliway diffuser.   [article="33377"]How To Move With Your Cat To A New Home In A Safe Way​[/article]  

I'd tend to wait till he's settled before bringing in a new cat and then follow the introduction process

 [article="32680"]How To Successfully Introduce Cats The Ultimate Guide​[/article]  

I'd go with a younger cat.  I'm not sure that it matter about the sex, but this article suggests that a male could be better.

 [article="22458"]Your Second Cat How To Choose The Best Friend For Kitty​[/article]  

I hope we hear lots more from you.  When you have time, perhaps you would like to introduce yourself and Noodles in our New Cats on the Block forum.

I got a second cat last year to keep my 2yo neutered male company. I got a slightly younger neutered male with a similar temperament. See my userpic, it's worked out really well

It can go one of two ways. Don't assume that because your two got along that another cat will have the same results. Think of it as losing your best friend. Another friend won't replace the one you lost. I would give it time and make a decision based on his behavior. It's always best to bring two cats in at the same time, as bringing in a second cat later on can cause undue stress on the resident cat.