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I think that an equally strong argument could be made for the opposite, that having only one cat is cruel. Any animal, I would think, could benefit from having another of its kind around.
Two cats can provide company for one another whenever their humans are not at home, and even while their people are around, another cat provides a different type of company that can be valuable for the wellbeing of each.
Cats may appear independent, but they are not solitary creatures, as can be observed by anyone who has seen two cats together. Even when they are not particularly fond of one another, there is an interaction that may be beneficial to both.
When they get along, their playing together can provide exercise, and when they don't, they at least have added stimulation.
In truth, I wouldn't go so far as to say that it is cruel to have only one cat, but I certainly wouldn't argue that it is cruel to have two. I do believe, however, that one should never have more cats than they can provide for, including both time and the cost of proper food and veterinary care.
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