Weekly article archive

The following questions and answers have appeared in my weekly column in the Albuquerque Journal since July, 1996. Each week a new one is added. You'll find information on the physical and behavioral maladies of dogs and cats and a few other species too. I invite you to use the search feature to find the specific answer that you and your pet need.

Vaccination for Older Cats

After Age 13 Well Immunized Pets are considered Protected for Life Question: Our dearly loved cat is 20. She has faithfully had her shots every year. She no longer goes…

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Overvaccination

How Vaccines Work & the Risks of Too Much of a Good Thing Question: I read your column regularly and respect your advice. What do you think about this perspective?…

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Vaccinations for Puppies & Kittens

What do they really need & what’s unnecessary.   Question: My kids and my wife and I have decided that we want to have a pet but we can’t agree…

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Three Year Rabies Vaccination

Even with Less Frequent Vaccinations, Health Exams are Needed every 6-12 Months Question: We understand that the New Mexico legislature was considering a measure that lengthened the time between rabies…

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Vaccinations for Solo Kitties

Some vaccines may be less important for cats without exposure to other cats.   Question: I have chosen not to vaccinate my indoor cat.  I take my cat outside in…

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Vaccine Reactions

Our best methods at disease prevention have a down side risk. Here are the facts. 276c Question: When my cat gets her shot series, she seems sick the next couple…

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Anal Gland Surgery

If They’re a Big Enough Pain in the Rear-Get Rid of those Anal Glands Question: My four-year-old male cat has had anal gland problems since he was a year old.…

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Butt Dragging

Anal gland disease & the itchy rear end.   Question: My indoor pet Siamese cat has recently began dragging her butt across the floor.  She has never been outdoors, and…

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Geriatric Cat: How to Know When It’s “Time”

First Find Out What’s Causing the Symptoms. Many Older Cats have Manageable Problems; Others have Reached the End Question: I have a cat that is turning 20 years old. We…

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