August 2006
Ask Dr. Richards: 08/06
Subscribers Only Why does my cat pump her paws whenever she’s near me? I keep her nails trimmed and she has never scratched or torn any of my furniture, but she pumps away. I finally have to hold her paws so I can get some rest. You should feel honored; your kitty is simply finding pleasure in your company. Actually, this kneading behavior you describe is believed to be a carryover from kittenhood. If you’ve had the opportunity…
Mind of the Cat: 08/06
Subscribers Only We try to believe that our cats are free from our idiosyncratic rituals. We like to think that our cats fit into our lives beautifully while remaining virtually untrained and free to do as they please. All we ask, it seems, is that they use a litter box for elimination. …
The Sense of Sight
Subscribers Only Your cat's eyes help her superior hunting skills. But they also serve as an important way to communicate with other cats.
Diagnosis: Adrenal Disease
Subscribers Only Early diagnosis and treatment may help. But neither Cushing's nor Addison's disease can be prevented or truly cured.
To Declaw or Not to Declaw: A Thorny Issue
Subscribers Only Is there ever an appropriate reason to deprive your cat of its sharp nails? Experts weigh in.
Stain and Odor Removal
Subscribers Only There are products made especially for cleaning after our pets. But there are some ordinary household products that can help, too.
Megacolon and Diet
Subscribers Only A very clean litter box can be useful in prevention. But once diagnosed, your cat will likely need a specific dietary regimen.
Hot Weather Care
Subscribers Only As temperatures soar, the potential threats to feline health also rise in number. Here's what you can do to keep your pets safe.
Short Takes: 08/06
Subscribers Only Why Cats Are Fat, and What to Do [IMGCAP(1)]When a normally thin publication like Waltham Focus, an international journal for companion-animal veterinarians, stuffs an issue (Vol. 16, No. 1) with details on the pet "obesity epidemic," we tend to look up from dinner to question: Have veterinary researchers discovered the cause of the flabby feline? How do they know which cats are catastrophically overweight? And what should we do, Doc? …