My Pet World: Dog’s excitement at the park results in embarrassing behaviors

Cathy M. Rosenthal, Tribune Content Agency on Dec 14, 2022

— Ruth, Pikesville, Maryland

Dear Ruth,

It’s not uncommon for kittens to “nurse” someone if taken away from their mom too soon. It’s much like a child sucking their thumb; it’s their security blanket. Bunny will grow out of this behavior over time, but in the meantime, she is feeling a little stressed from the early separation and is finding comfort with you.

You can discourage her when she does this but in a gentle way. Putting her outside the room will stop the behavior but won’t curb it in the future. Instead, when she does this, cover your arm, and stroke her head or back to see if she will fall asleep with you. If she does this during the day, play with her, groom her, or offer her favorite toy to distract her from nursing you.

Finally, get a pheromone collar for her for the next month or two. These artificial pheromones mimic a mother’s pheromones after birth and may calm her. Be patient. She is still a baby and will not likely be doing this as an adult cat.

Dear Cathy,

Regarding the letter from Tom, in Deer Park, New York, regarding the cost of vet care, I asked for a senior citizen discount when I first brought my cat to the veterinarian. My cat is not a senior; I am. The office gave me a 10% discount on the entire bill. Now, the office automatically applies the discount to my bill. Don’t be afraid to speak up, seniors. Every savings counts.

— Margarete, Port Jefferson Station, New York

Dear Margarete,

Tom’s concerns over rising vet costs have generated a lot of letters in my inbox. I don’t think people think about asking their veterinarian for a senior discount. It’s a good tip and definitely worth asking your vet about it. Thanks, Margarete.

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(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)