How can we make the move to a new home easier on our cat?

Answer It's a good idea to plan ahead for your cat's move. The less trauma associated with the move, the better for the cat.

Try keeping her confined to one room in your new place when you aren't home. As much as possible, keep your daily routine the same, since dogs and cats live for routine and changes can upset them. If your cat doesn't want to explore her new home, don't force the issue. She'll explore on her own as she becomes more comfortable. Keeping her in one room with familiar furniture will help her become more relaxed.

Most cats adjust pretty quickly to new surroundings as long as their family remains intact. Some skittish cats may take a little longer, but they will eventually come around.

Grieving Pets

Question We've made the decision to euthanize one of our two dogs.

How can we help the other one through the grieving process?

Answer It's very common for our pets to go through a grieving process a lot like our own when they lose a person or animal they know well. This process may have begun with your dog when his canine companion became ill and perhaps was hospitalized. You may have seen signs of sadness, depression, searching the house, a reduced appetite, or other unusual behaviors.

Some pet owners choose to allow the remaining pet a chance to view the body of the deceased pet after euthanasia. They believe that it helps the pet that's left behind to understand what's happened and to process the loss. You may want to discuss this option with your veterinarian before euthanizing the household pet that is ill.

Why has my older cat become so lazy about grooming?

Question My older cat has become quite lazy about his grooming. He is a long-haired cat, and I brush him on a regular basis. Now that he isn't helping, his fur is becoming very matted. I realize that I will have to brush him more often, but is there any more that I can do?

Answer As cats age they do not keep up with their grooming. Some get "stiff" and have trouble reaching some areas. You will need to take up the slack. That means brushing more often. You might also try a fine toothed comb over a brush to remove those dead, dull hairs that need to be shed. Bathing with a coat conditioner will help make combing easier. Consult with your veterinarian about coat care products.

What's wrong with an old cat who has lost eight pounds in three weeks?

Answer Any cat that shows a sudden and severe weight loss should be tested for abnormalities of the thyroid gland, for diabetes, and for kidney disease. If your veterinarian has not yet performed a geriatric blood profile and urinalysis on your cat recently, then you should request that it be done immediately. There are many conditions that are very treatable in older cats if they are diagnosed in time and treated aggressively.

Can I give my cat a bath?

Question Should cats be given baths? If so, how often? And are there special shampoos?

Answer Cats are generally pretty clean and do not need regular bathing unless they become dirty or have a skin condition. General bathing can be done once a month. For a basic cleaning an over-the-counter pet shampoo will work. Avoid using human shampoos and other human products as they are much too harsh. If your pet has a skin condition, then a special treatment by your veterinarian is wise since special shampoos may be needed for treatment.