My Pet World: For owners of multiple cats, social skills are important
--Distribute important resources. Each cat should have easy access to food, resting areas, scratching posts, toys and litter boxes without encountering an unfriendly cat.
--Don't force cats to interact. Each time the cats experience an aggressive encounter, they are learning to fight next time.
--Guide cats to move away from an aggressive or tense encounter. Encourage either cat to move away by using a sweet, gentle tone of voice. You may coax using food, treats, or toys, or tuna or sardines.
--Be realistic. Some cats are not going to be best pals no matter what you do, but you do want them to be tolerant of one another. After all, living with the stress you describe isn't healthy for people or pets.
By the way, DePorter and I are conducting a study that can help describe what cats are feeling before and after veterinary visits. You can participate by filling out a brief survey just before your cat's next routine visit. For a survey, email TheresaDVM@aol.com.
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Q: Our 3-year-old Doberman has a gas problem. We've tried several pet foods; nothing has helped. Do you have any suggestions? -- J. J., Cyberspace
A: Begin with a clothespin, that's for your nose.
Chicago veterinarian Dr. Sheldon Rubin says ruling out parasites with a stool sample might be an easy way to begin. And a general veterinary exam with blood work is suggested as well.
Rubin also wants to know if table snacks may play a role in what's happening.
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