ArcaMax

She agrees that since you have three dogs, and they've never been boarded, they'd probably be happier remaining in their own home.

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Q: We're moving from the Las Vegas area to the Chicago area. What's the best way to move our 12-year-old cat? I'm worried she may be too large to fit under the seat on an airplane. Or should she endure a three-day care ride? I'm in a quandary. -- J.N. Henderson, NV

A: "I think the shorter the ordeal the better, and therefore going by plane would likely be ideal," says feline veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth Colleran, of Chico, CA. "Airlines do charge a fee, of course (to carry a cat on board), and have specific size limitations for carriers. Hopefully, the cat would fit."

Colleran, a past President of the American Association of Feline Practitioners, says if you have a very nervous cat, talk with your veterinarian ASAP about pharmaceutical intervention for the trip. That way, you can try out the drug of choice well before departure to make sure your cat responds as you hope.

On another topic, if your cat is overweight (which sounds like it might be the case), see your veterinarian about a sensible weight-loss program.

If you travel by car, your cat should be in a carrier. Make stops along the way to allow your kitty to stretch. Colleran suggests using a disposable cardboard litter box, available inexpensively wherever pet products are sold.

Colleran suggests putting a leash and harness on the cat to make sure she doesn't run away should she somehow get out of the carrier. If you fly, to minimize that same risk, when you're screened by TSA staff, ask to be in a private room with closed door. You have the right to make this request.

Along the way, you'll need to find pet-friendly accommodations. Two helpful websites are www.bringfido.com and www.petswelcome.org. Call or email to make sure the info listed for each facility is current. Tip: Some destinations require a non-refundable deposit.

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Q: My husband and I took in a stray cat in 2013. He's always much preferred my husband and acts very frightened of me. Our three other cats don't act this way at all. The formerly stray won't even let me get close enough to feed him by hand; I have to lob treats in his direction. Otherwise, he's a very nice cat. How can I become his friend? --H.M, Peoria, IL

A: Don't take the snub personally. It's possible this cat was once abused by a woman, or he was raised by a man and never exposed to women. Most likely, the answer is much simpler, though: Just as we have preferences about who we like to hang out with, so can our pets.

You may be able to improve this cat's view of you by offering him, even from a distance, some primo treats, like bits of tuna, salmon or (low salt) smoked turkey. Then walk away. Sometimes we push ourselves on a pet, and that can be offensive -- or even frightening -- to some cats.

Also, a fishing pole-type toy might work to engage the cat, since you're at one end and the toy is at the other. At least for a time, take over feeding of this cat. Also, make sure treats come only from you.

In time, I think, the cat will grow to trust you, tolerate you, or if you're very lucky, to genuinely like you!

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