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.
Careful Evaluation & Dosing are Critical to Success Question: I have a 14-year-old diabetic cat. She was healthy and stable; her insulin (glargine) dose was 1.5 units. About a month…
Protein & Sodium Restriction may trump Kitten Food Question: A year ago I contacted you about an older cat, overweight. I thought you said to feed her canned kitten food…
No Electric Shock Collar; Enrich this Dog’s Life Instead Question: I have a Pyrenees/Anatolian shepherd who is 1 year old. He barks constantly. If nothing is out there to bark…
An Important Summertime Threat Maggots are worse than disgusting; they are among the most dangerous summertime hazards to pets’ health. Confronting these flesh eaters and their unmistakable odor is a…
All Meat Diets cause Thiamine Deficiency Question: Our cat had a possible stroke 3 weeks ago. Every other day we are thinking he’s getting better. The next day he’s not.…
Cats can Learn to Earn Treats by Taking Medicine Question: How do I give a pill to a cat? My previous cats have been cooperative, but this cat is much…
Changing Clothes, Washing Hands Best Question: I’d like to volunteer at a cat shelter, but I’m wondering if I could inadvertently transmit disease to my cats at home. Dr.…
Question: Our 13 year old cat has stopped eating altogether. He has gone from 15 lbs. down to 13 in two weeks. We took him to a local veterinarian and…
Age doesn’t Matter; It’s a Great Move for All Cats Question: My daughter wanted to know if having her cat neutered at one year of age could change his personality.…