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.

Raw Meat Diet for Cats

A Good Start but the Best Diets are Balanced Question: I’ve had a shelter cat for a year now. I recently stumbled onto some basic information about pet nutrition and…

Canned Kitten Food is Best for All Age Cats

Avoid Cheese. A High Protein, Low Fat, Low Carbohydrate Diet is Best. Question: Is cheese bad for cats? Are there foods cats should not eat?   Dr. Nichol: Cats should…

Dogs Eating Cat Food & Cats Eating Dog Food

Cats & dogs are different species with very different needs. Poor health can result from the wrong diet.   Question: Our 8 month old Pomeranian – dachshund sure enjoys eating…

Plant Eating

There is no way to stop plant eating. Give the gift that keeps on giving: a Catnip Garden.   Question: We have an 8 year old purebred Manx who seems…

Weight Reduction for the Overweight Feline

Gradual change to a high fiber low fat diet is safe & effective.   Question: I have a special problem with my cat “Tigger”. He is fat. But I don’t…

Dog will Eat only Cat Food

Protect his Kidneys; Try Tough Love Question: My mother took in a throw away dog. He will eat only table scraps and cat food. When she first got him he…

The Healthy Dog Who ‘Won’t Eat’

Frequent dog food changes, gas, & dry flaky skin. This fellow needs a consistent diet.   Question: We adopted “Satchmo” a few months ago–he was the featured pup in the…

Cheap Pet Food is No Bargain

Lower priced diets boast comparisons to the better brands, but you won’t get what you don’t pay for.   Question: I read an article recently in Consumer Reports that said…

Rawhide Chews

A great way to keep a dog occupied & maintain healthy teeth & gums.   Question: I have a healthy 3 1/2 year old female Great Dane.  She really likes…