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My Pet World: Vaccines Important in Maintaining Canine Health

By Steve Dale, Tribune Media Services on

Q: Could my 13-year-old cat have Parkinson's disease? Hercules shakes his whole head before he falls asleep. It's like what happens when you touch a cat's ear and it sometimes flicks. Should I be concerned? -- L.E., Cyberspace

A: "While cats don't get Parkinson's disease, you should be concerned enough to figure out what's going on," says Dr. Elizabeth Colleran, of Chico, CA, past president of the American Association of Feline Practitioners. The list of possible problems is long, from dental disease to something going on inside one or both of Hercules' ears, from a polyp to excess wax or ear mites. If he's also circling or sometimes has a tilted head, the problem may be vestibular disease.

Since this shaking apparently only happens before your cat takes a nap, videotape the behavior so you can play it back for your veterinarian.

If your veterinarian seems stuck, it might be a good idea to seek a referral to an American Association of Feline Practitioners Cat Friendly Practice. Learn more at www.catvets.com.

Q: Why does my cat touch her paw to the water before drinking? I thought cats don't like to get their paws wet. -- G.R., Fort Myers, FL

 

A: In general, cats don't enjoy getting their paws (or any part of their bodies) wet. However, it may be more important for your cat to determine the water level. Cats are generally far sighted, and since no one makes kitty bifocals, your cat may prefer patting the water rather than misjudging its depth and getting water up her nose. A small rubber ducky or children's toy that floats might help your cat detect the water surface.

It's also possible your kitty is testing the water temperature to make sure it's just right for drinking. Or maybe the splashing is her idea of fun!

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Steve Dale welcomes questions/comments from readers. Although he can't answer all of them individually, he'll answer those of general interest in his column Send e-mail to PETWORLD(at)STEVE DALE.TV. Include your name, city and state. Steve's website is www.stevedalepetworld.com; he also hosts the nationally syndicated "Steve Dale's Pet World" and "The Pet Minute." He's also a contributing editor to USA Weekend.


(c) 2012 DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

 

 

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