ArcaMax

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Q: I adopted two rescue cats three years ago. Duke, who is 4 years old, has a pleasant personality. He finds great joy in kneading us and being a member of he family. But Rowdy, who's 6, doesn't show us much affection. He eats his food quickly, then complains when the bowl is empty. He vomits his food, often just outside our bedroom, or even on our shoes. He has hairballs. I think he has a psychological problem, and that he does these things when he's most displeased with us. Any advice? -- E.E.H., Fort Mohave, AZ

A: As much as you may be surprised by this answer, cat behavior consultant Darlene Arden, author of "The Complete Cat's Meow" (Wiley Publishing, New York NY, 2011; $19.99), says that your cat is not scheming to drive you crazy.

Arden says Rowdy is likely throwing up because he's eating too fast. However, to confirm this, seeing your veterinarian makes sense The solution may be to either feed him small amounts at a time (if you're home to do so) and/or to use food puzzles to feed him at least a part of his food. One of several examples is the Play 'n Treat ball, a little plastic ball with a hole. You teach the cat to roll the ball, and kibble tumbles out the hole a piece or two at a time (be sure your brand isn't too large to fit through the hole), making it impossible for the pet to scarf up too much all at once.

"Cats don't choose where to throw up, and say to themselves 'Oh, today, I think I'll make a mess of her shoes,'" says Arden. "Apparently, you're leaving your shoes out and they just happen to be there."

Many cats, dogs and people complain when the food dish is empty.

Arden says that daily brushing can help with the hairball issue. Also, ask your veterinarian about using Vaseline (to lessen hairballs), or if you should purchase a hairball formula diet. She adds, "I don't know of any cat that has hairballs on purpose."

Arden doesn't believe your cat has a psychological problem. It does sound as if you may favor Duke over Rowdy, though, which is your choice.

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Q: How do I know if my dog is happy? -- G.F., Delray Beach, FL

A: If your dog wants to be with you at least twice as much as you want to be with your dog, he's happy.

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Steve Dale's NEW EBOOKS, "Good Dog!" and "Good Cat!", are available on all major eReader devices and platforms. The basic version of each book is $2.99. An enhanced version of "Good Dog!" with embedded videos is available at iTunes for $4.99. For details, check the "Good Dog!"Facebook page. Write to Steve at Tribune Media Services, 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, NY 14207. Send e-mail to PETWORLD(at)STEVE DALE.TV. Include your name, city and state. Steve's website is www.stevedalepetworld.com

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