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When it comes to cats, nearly everything modern veterinary medicine knows about their health and welfare has been learned through studies funded by the non-profit Winn Feline Foundation. From the very food most cats eat to treatments for a wide range of health issues, Winn has been there to help cats for 46 years, and has now launched a new website as a resource for cat lovers: www.winnfelinefoundation.org.

Q: You recently wrote about stem cell research, and I understand that in cats, stem cell therapy is being used to treat inflammatory bowel disease. Do you have more details? -- B.H., Highland Park, IL.

A: In fact, it was the Winn Feline Foundation that funded research conducted by Dr. Craig Webb and Dr. Tracy Webb, of Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Fort Collins, to study the use of stem cells to treat inflammatory bowel disease. Early results are promising.

Stem cell research in cats doesn't stop there. Dr. Glenn Olah, president of the Winn Feline Foundation, notes that since 2013, Winn has also funded stem cell studies to treat feline asthma and kidney disease. Results are hopeful, but it's simply too early to offer definitive answers.

"In some ways, stem cell studies in pets are ahead of (those in) people. There's no stigma attached because there's no use of (controversial) embryonic stem cells. Stem cells are harvested from fat, bone or nearly anywhere. In people, stem cells are also harvested from fat, bone and other places, but somehow the issue has become as political as it is medical."

Olah, of Albuquerque, NM, points out that you can find details on a very long list of feline health-related issues by typing in "stem cells" or whatever you're seeking in the search box at www.winnfelinefoundation.org.

Q: I've been a cat servant for 50 years. About a month ago, I adopted a beautiful Burmese after she romanced me at the shelter, but once we got home, she wanted nothing to do with me! It's not that she isn't friendly; she loves my son and even sleeps with him. When I get up early to feed her, she stays away until I've left the room. My son suggested that the cat harbors resentment toward me because I took her from her cat friends. What can do to improve the situation? -- R.M., Indian Shores, FL

A: "The good news is, it's very unlikely the cat harbors any resentment," says Winn Feline board member and feline veterinarian Dr. Drew Weigner, of Atlanta, GA. "The bad news for you, but good news for the cat and your son, is that they developed a fast friendship."

You didn't mention your son's age, but while sometimes young children may frighten cats, other cats are drawn to kids, especially if they speak softly. Your mannerisms, while well intentioned, may be intimidating to this cat.

Here are some tips that might help the car warm up to you:

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