Dear Matthew: My cat has bad breath. I didn't notice this until recently, but it's been getting worse and worse, it seems. Now, I can hardly pet her because when she turns her head my way, I'm overcome by the smell!
What's the problem? She eats canned food I buy at the grocery store, which is what I've always fed her and what she seems to enjoy the most. The food doesn't seem appetizing to me, but it doesn't smell nearly as bad as my kitty's breath. What can I do to solve this problem?- Lucinda in Stockton, Calif.
Dear Lucinda: A cat with halitosis can be a real bother, I'm sure. But before you go looking in vain for kitty mouthwash at the local pet store, you might want to consider changing your cat's diet.
Not only is an exclusively soft-food diet bad for your cat's overall health, it can lead to plaque tartar buildup on your feline's teeth and gum disease, which contribute to bad breath. A premium-brand hard cat food will help keep your pet's teeth clean and eliminate your smelly problem.
I'd also recommend that you take your cat to the veterinarian for a dental checkup and cleaning. I'm willing to bet that if you follow my advice, you'll be pleasantly rubbing noses with your cat in no time.
Dear Matthew: What can you tell me about chow chow dogs? I think they're really cute, with their little black tongues, and I'm thinking of getting one. Is that a good idea? Do you have any information that might make me change my mind? Thanks!
- Jim in St. Louis
Dear Jim: I have a question for you. Have you ever owned a dog before? If you haven't, then I'd speculate that a chow is not the dog for you. These dogs can occasionally be aggressive and require a strong-willed "dog person" to handle their rambunctiousness.
I also wouldn't recommend a chow if you have small children. If you do get a chow, be sure you get one from a reliable, well-trusted kennel - and watch how the animal behaves closely before you take it home. Due to commercialization and the lack of selective breeding in many instances, some of these dogs can be extremely aggressive and hard to train.
Have I convinced you to change your mind? Perhaps. But these dogs, originally from China, have some very endearing qualities as well. For instance, they are terrific watchdogs. They're loyal and quickly develop deep-rooted protective emotions about their families. If trained early and effectively, they are also very obedient and responsive.
So, think carefully before you bring a chow into your family. But if you're ready for one, they can make terrific pets.
Dear Matthew: I've recently retired and am spending a lot more time around the house. My wife passed away several years ago, so it's just me and my pet cat, Charlie.
I used to feed my cat as soon as I got home from work, which was around 4:30 every day. Charlie would wait patiently at the door for me, and he'd follow my every move until I had finally filled up his bowl with food and set it out for him.
Since I'm home during the day now, I think Charlie has gotten a little confused. Whenever he sees me in the house during the afternoon, he looks as though I should feed him. He doesn't seem to understand that it's way too early for dinner.
Occasionally, I give him dinner early, but then he starts up again with his pestering later in the day. What can I do to keep my Charlie from driving me crazy?!?
- Andrew in Roanoke, Va.
Dear Andrew: Cats make great companions, so full of love and attention. Of course, it sounds like Charlie is giving you a little too much attention. It's nice to know you're needed, but it sounds like your cat has crossed the line and become annoying. And since you've occasionally given in and fed him earlier, he's certain that if he just pesters you enough, you'll eventually break down and feed him again.
So, my advice is this: Stick to your guns! Put up with your cat's pestering, but don't give in! As long as you set a consistent policy of feeding your pet at a certain time, eventually, he'll adjust to your new routine and stop making trouble.
Just in case Charlie doesn't get the message immediately, though, might I suggest buying a toy water gun. If your feline starts to get a little surly, give him a quick squirt. Suddenly, he'll worrying about other things besides his growling stomach.
Cats are creatures of habit, and when their routine changes, it can take some time for them to adjust. Just be patient, and things will work out fine.