My Pet World: Cat claws at TV, but may just be a fan of Justin Bieber

It's important to be realistic as well. Cats are like people, some are more outgoing than others. Some (cats) love to be picked up, held and fussed over, and others would rather call the shots on their own terms.

When you are ready -- and maybe when you perceive your cat is ready, consider adopting a kitten. I said a kitten because that way your shy cat may not be as threatened. Always, a gradual introduction is suggested when adding a new cat to a household.

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Q: My 15-year-old cat has been grooming himself forever, pulling out his own hair and eating it. His fur has gotten so thin. The veterinarian calls this "barbering" but doesn't know why the cat is doing it. Any ideas? -- D.T., Gloucester, VA

A: "We conducted a study which demonstrated that for most cats who over-groom themselves, there's a medical explanation, at least in great part," says veterinary behaviorist Dr. Gary Landsberg, of Thornhill, Ontario, Canada. "It may be a flea allergy, inhalant allergy, food allergy, or a combination. Other possibilities include a hyperthyroid or a response to intestinal pain."

I will assume at this point that your cat has been examined for parasites and has had a thorough physical exam. Landsberg explains that cats with an allergy usually respond to steroids. However, placing a 15-year old cat on a steroid might be problematic. Another option is to begin a novel food trial, feeding your cat only a prescription hypoallergenic diet for several months.

If your cat's "barbering" turns out to a behavioral problem, a sort of compulsion, ultimately it may make sense to see a veterinary behaviorist. For cats who lick themselves compulsively, an anti-anxiety drug may be recommended.

Increasing the indoor enrichment for your cat is one thing you can do that won't cost a penny. Offer a varying array of toys. For example, one day provide an empty box. The next day, cut a mouse hole in the box so your cat can poke through for a treat. The day after that, sprinkle catnip in the box. Instead of tossing out wine corks or plastic bottle caps, turn them into cat toys! Consider feeding your cat at least a portion (or even all) of his meals from food puzzles or food-dispensing toys scattered around the house, so he has to "hunt" for his food. Learn more at The Ohio State University Indoor Cat Initiative, https://indoorpet.osu.edu/home.

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Q: Our two cats will only sit on a lap if it is their idea. And at that time, they are very demanding to be petted, meowing, rubbing, bumping our hands. But if they don't want to be pet, forget it. My mom's two Siamese are much better about it. They will come occupy your lap and just sit there politely to be petted. I want to enjoy my cats, but they are annoying. -- C. R, Suffolk, VA

A: So, your cats are in control? That sounds perfectly normal. If they are really going overboard, getting obnoxious if you can't give them attention, just ignore the cats. It's interesting that the cats actually seem to be conspiring to work together.

Odds are the cat first meow, if that doesn't work, they meow and head bump. If that doesn't work they rub against you, meow louder and head bump. At some point, you say, "I give up." And your cats win.

In truth, when you ignore the cats -- which I suggest -- they will work even harder to get your attention. Who knows what lengths your cats will go to? They may order in a pizza, turn on dance music - no matter what they do, hang in there. Eventually the cats will get the idea. And your cats will be more reasonable in the future.

However, I also hope you're playing with these cats daily with an interactive toy (a fishing pole-type toy with feathers or fabric). If not, your cats have a point.