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.

Diabetes & Cushings Disease

Cats who drink & urinate a lot may have diabetes. Some cases are complicated by an additional hormone disorder called Cushings. Both are treatable.   Question: My 9-year-old cat was…

Vaccination for Older Cats

After Age 13 Well Immunized Pets are considered Protected for Life Question: Our dearly loved cat is 20. She has faithfully had her shots every year. She no longer goes…

Overvaccination

How Vaccines Work & the Risks of Too Much of a Good Thing Question: I read your column regularly and respect your advice. What do you think about this perspective?…

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…

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…

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…

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…

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.…

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…