My Pet World: NSAID Drug Could be Very Effective Treatment for Arthritic Dog

"We have many years of data, which can't be thrown out the window," she says. "Metacam is used around the world without fanfare. We have a set of excellent guidelines to help veterinarians make the best decisions about using Metacam."

Downing, of Windsor, CO, says, "Pain relief is the first step to break the pain cycle. About half of all cats are overweight, which most certainly may contribute to the problem. Weight loss is very important, not only to lessen the impact of arthritis, but also for overall health."

With your veterinarian's guidance, even cats can slowly begin to exercise. Additional options include physical therapy (including underwater treadmill), acupuncture, chiropractic and therapeutic laser may also help.

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Q: Our 10-year-old Shih Tzu has developed warts all over his body. Our vet says nothing can be done. I've been putting antibiotic ointment on the warts, but they're not going away. My dog scratches them and they bleed. Is there any treatment? -- E.R. Union, S.C.

A: "I'm not so sure these are warts," says Chicago-based veterinarian Dr. Sheldon Rubin. "Generally, we see warts near the mouth, and not all over the body, and generally they occur in younger dogs. Based on the breed and age of the dog, my best guess is that these growths are sebaceous adenomas. The sebaceous glands (small oil-producing glands present in the skin of mammals) overproduce. They produce growths, which may be removed surgically with a laser or scalpel. A special shampoo (from a veterinarian) might cut down on oil secretions. Left alone, there's no danger (and many people do leave these growths alone)." However, they may bleed (especially if scratched) and they're not too attractive.

Rubin stresses a diagnosis cannot be made for certain without a biopsy.

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Q: Recently, I had my 18-year-old cat put to sleep. In searching for another kitten, I find most breeders have their kittens neutered at four months before they're sold. Isn't this too early? Are there any side effects of early neutering? -- B.M., Hudson FL

A: I'm sorry for your loss, and admire you for opening your heart to a new best purring pal.

It's very safe to spay/neuter cats at four months, and I endorse the idea for the health of your cat, Spaying females greatly reduces the risk of breast cancer and eliminates the threat of uterine and ovarian cancer. Spayed/neutered cats are simply better pets; there's no urge to roam and no mess, and life is quieter. Spay/neuter also eliminates the cat overpopulation problem.

However, new research indicates that with early spay/neuter, significant changes do occur. Almost immediately, there are changes in hormones which cause "fixed" cats to be hungrier (explaining sometimes inordinate begging). Spay/neuter surgery can trigger up to a 30 percent drop in caloric needs but up to a 20 percent boost in appetite.

Royal Canin just launched a new line of spayed/neutered food formulas. The diet features controlled fat levels and a unique blend of fibers to support the decreased energy and increased appetite of spayed/neutered cats. Cats on this diet won't be as predisposed to be overweight, and may not beg so much.

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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.