Weekly article archive

The following questions and answers have appeared in my weekly column in the Albuquerque Journal since July, 1996. Each week a new one is added. You'll find information on the physical and behavioral maladies of dogs and cats and a few other species too. I invite you to use the search feature to find the specific answer that you and your pet need.

Vaccinations for Puppies & Kittens

What do they really need & what’s unnecessary.   Question: My kids and my wife and I have decided that we want to have a pet but we can’t agree…

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Three Year Rabies Vaccination

Even with Less Frequent Vaccinations, Health Exams are Needed every 6-12 Months Question: We understand that the New Mexico legislature was considering a measure that lengthened the time between rabies…

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Vaccinations for Solo Kitties

Some vaccines may be less important for cats without exposure to other cats.   Question: I have chosen not to vaccinate my indoor cat.  I take my cat outside in…

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Vaccine Reactions

Our best methods at disease prevention have a down side risk. Here are the facts. 276c Question: When my cat gets her shot series, she seems sick the next couple…

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Anal Gland Surgery

If They’re a Big Enough Pain in the Rear-Get Rid of those Anal Glands Question: My four-year-old male cat has had anal gland problems since he was a year old.…

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Butt Dragging

Anal gland disease & the itchy rear end.   Question: My indoor pet Siamese cat has recently began dragging her butt across the floor.  She has never been outdoors, and…

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Geriatric Cat: How to Know When It’s “Time”

First Find Out What’s Causing the Symptoms. Many Older Cats have Manageable Problems; Others have Reached the End Question: I have a cat that is turning 20 years old. We…

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Weight Loss in a Geriatric Cat

Kidney Failure & Hyperthyroidism are Major Concerns Question: My 18 year old cat, Milo, is shrinking. She had a geriatric checkup 6 months ago and all tests were normal, just…

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Icterus/Jaundice in an Older Cat

Thorough Diagnostic Work & Careful Treatment Saves Lives Question: Our cat Ginger is 13 or 14 (do you think I’m not protecting him if I use his name?) has lab…

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