My Pet World: What may look like a cat/dog tussle is probably just play

Q: I have a 10-month-old Bedlington Terrier and a Siamese cat. Our dog is intent on chasing the cat, and it's annoying. The cat is not afraid and sometimes encourages the dog. How can I stop this from happening? -- P.D., via cyberspace

A: Hmmm, annoying to whom? "Based on your description, the cat sounds like he's in control -- which is what cats like," says certified dog behavior consultant Liz Palika, of Oceanside, CA. "I suspect they're playing. One option is to do nothing, unless either the dog or cat has gotten hurt, or you feel one of the two might get hurt."

It seems you're annoyed by the behavior, which is perfectly fair, I suppose. You could distract your cat with an interactive toy, such as a fishing pole toy with fabric or feathers at the end or a laser light. (Note: Never shine the light into the cat's eyes; also periodically drop a treat on the "red bug," so the cat actually catches something.)

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Q: How do I find a pet sitter? We're looking to go away over Christmas. We usually take our three dogs with us on vacation, but this time we're leaving the country. We don't feel comfortable boarding them since they've never been boarded before. Any advice? -- A.C., St. Paul, MN

A: As for finding candidates to pet sit, Jessica Abernathy, president-elect of the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters suggests two websites: www.petsitters.org, as well as Angie's List.

Before hiring anyone, have your pets meet the perspective sitter. If for some reason the pets don't take to the sitter, Abernathy says don't hesitate to trust their judgment (unless your pets distrust all strangers). She concedes that a handful of pets simply haven't taken to her. "And they're all Bulldogs!! I love Bulldogs. It breaks my heart, but I guess I just give off the wrong vibe to some Bulldogs," Abernathy says.

Also, decide if you want to go with a one-person operation, guaranteeing lots of individual attention, or hire through a larger company.

"There are pro's and con's for each," says Abernathy, based in Chicago.

She advises choosing someone who's insured and belongs to one of the national pet-sitting organizations, which demonstrates a commitment as a professional, and the willingness to pursue continuing education.

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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