What can I do?

Answer

Your first step is taking her to your veterinarian for a checkup. She may have parasites on her skin, or some kind of fungal or bacterial infection. She may also be having an allergic reaction to something. Your veterinarian can test for these conditions with a skin scrape and some blood tests. All of them are treatable.

If the exam and tests are normal, your kitty may have feline hyperesthesia syndrome. This is a condition where the nerve cells become overly sensitive and react to nearly any stimulus. Though there is no cure for hyperesthesia, it isn't dangerous to your pet's health. Unless your cat seems to be experiencing pain or discomfort, she should be able to lead a normal life without treatment for her condition.

Feline Acne

Question

My cat has developed raised black spots on his chin. What are these? He began with just one spot about two weeks ago, but now there are four.

Answer

It sounds like your cat may have a common ailment known as "feline acne." This condition is often treated with a topical cream or shampoo prescribed by a veterinarian. Using stainless steel, ceramic or glass food and water bowls is also recommended, as plastic bowls may be harder to keep really clean and, thus, may contribute to the problem.

There are certainly other skin disorders - some that are potentially serious - that mimic the signs you describe, so it's important to consult your veterinarian and have your cat examined.

Cat Pregnancy and Delivery

Question How should I prepare for my pregnant cat's delivery?

Answer Cats can be difficult to predict when it comes to labor and delivery. The biggest thing to remember is that your cat may not want to have her kittens where you want her to. You should still try to set up a cozy delivery box for her, lined with her favorite blankets. You can put one or two of her toys in the box and spend some time petting her while she sits in the box to help her feel comfortable in it.

If she chooses this box for her delivery, you know she'll be in a safe place where you can find her. But when the time comes, her inclination may be to go off by herself into a closet, under the bed, or anywhere else she feels secluded and secure. If she's close to the end of her pregnancy, don't let her outside until after the delivery because she may run off and have the kittens somewhere you won't be able to find them.

The other thing to remember is that having and caring for kittens may not be perfectly routine and natural for her. Try to be present when she delivers so you can help if necessary, but don't intervene unless there is a problem. You may need to help her deliver a kitten, break the membrane around a kitten, or help one start breathing. The best way to learn these procedures is through demonstrations or pictures. Your veterinarian can help you learn them, or you can find a book on delivering kittens at your library or a bookstore.