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Dear Cathy,
I live on a large farm in Virginia and over the years many feral cats and dogs have come to live here. This Spring, a very young and friendly feral cat showed up and, as usual, I fed it. I got him neutered, all his shots, and tick and flea treatments. He now lives in my barn.
The problem is that he is too friendly. I am in my late 70s and am very careful about preventing falls. Unfortunately, this kitty likes to unexpectedly dart between or in front of my feet and legs making me stumble. It is just a matter of time before he catches me unaware and I fall. Is there any way to teach him not to do this?
— Anna, Amherst, Virginia
Dear Anna,
When a cat displays this kind of behavior, it's usually because he's seeking attention or interaction. Since he has learned to associate your arrival with something positive, he is trying to greet you the best way he knows how.
One of the safest ways to manage this is to redirect his attention before he reaches your feet. First, I recommend stopping for a moment when you first get outside or at the barn entrance before walking through your property. So, you can see where he is.
Second, carry a feather wand or another favorite toy with you, and wiggle it off to your side, so as he approaches, he will be more interested in that than your legs. You could also toss a few treats to your side as you walk. Redirecting his focus away from your legs gives him something appropriate to chase while allowing you to move safely.
Third, if he does weave between your legs, always stop until he is finished rather than trying to step around him, which is often when falls occur. Cats usually lose interest once they realize you are not moving. This is also a good time to engage him with the toy or treats again. Finally, consider enriching his environment with things to climb, scratch, and explore. A sturdy cat tree, shelves, or even a few hay bales arranged at different heights can encourage him to spend more time climbing and observing than following you underfoot.
Thank you for taking such good care of him and for getting him neutered.
Dear Cathy,
I recently read your response to Stacy from Cambridge, Massachusetts, about feline cardiomyopathy and wanted to share my experience.
My eight-year-old cat, Willow, was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy about six months ago after she seemed just a little "off." Bloodwork led to an evaluation by a veterinary cardiologist, who confirmed the diagnosis. Willow resisted taking oral medication, so my veterinarian prescribed a transdermal version that I apply to her ear each morning. She also receives a cardiac support supplement, and I'm happy to report that her recent bloodwork was stable.
After more than 50 years of caring for cats, I've learned that quality of life is what matters most. This treatment plan keeps Willow comfortable, and that's what gives me peace of mind.
— Karen and “Willow,” Whitehall, Pennsylvania
Dear Karen,
Thank you for sharing Willow's story. Although the original question about feline cardiomyopathy appeared in my column some time ago, your letter should remind readers that when a pet suddenly seems "off,” whether they're sleeping more, hiding, eating differently, or simply acting unlike themselves, the first step should always be a visit to the veterinarian.
I also appreciate you sharing your experience with transdermal medication. Many cats strongly object to taking pills, and for some medications, compounded transdermal formulations can be an excellent alternative.
I am pleased to hear that Willow is doing well, and I hope her upcoming cardiac ultrasound brings encouraging news. Quality of life should always be at the heart of any treatment plan.
Dear Cathy,
Regarding the fast-eating golden doodle puppy who swallows her kibble whole: I suggest soaking the kibble in water, running it through a food processor, stuffing the food in a treat-dispensing toy, and freezing it. Our certified behaviorist dog trainer suggested this. It works wonders for our senior English lab.
— Leslie, East Meadow, New York
Dear Leslie,
Frozen food stuffed into a hollow rubber toy designed to hold food is an excellent way to slow down dogs that inhale their meals. Instead of finishing dinner in seconds, dogs must lick, nudge, and work to get the food out, which can make mealtime last much longer.
Slow-feeder bowls, snuffle mats, puzzle feeders, food-dispensing toys, and even scattering kibble in the grass for a supervised "find it" game can all encourage dogs to eat at a healthier pace.
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(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to [email protected]. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)
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