JULY/AUG 2005

Ask The Cat Lady!

Sally Bahner has spent the last 10 years specializing in writing on cat-related issues, specifically nutrition, holistic care and multiple cat behavior. She was editor-in-chief of "The Whole Cat Journal" and has contributed to "Catnip," "Catwatch" and the new "Whole Cat Journal".

Q: Hello Sally,
My kitty, Chloe, is about 15 – we don’t know her exactly age since we adopted her as a stray. Lately she’s lost weight though she’s been eating more than ever. Her coat doesn’t look all that great either and she’s been vocalizing a lot, which is unusual since she’s normally a pretty quiet cat.
What do you think is going on here?
Nancy, New Haven

A: Hi Michelle,
Have you taken Chloe to your veterinarian for a geriatric blood panel? Included will be her T4 levels, which measure the amount of thyroid hormones in the blood and may be indicative of hyperthyroidism, a common but treatable disease that’s often found in older cats. A normal reading is between 1.5 and 4.8. Other symptoms may include excessive thirst and excessive urination.

It’s important to get a diagnosis since hyperthyroidism can ultimately affect the kidneys and heart. The good news is that the disease is treatable. Three methods are commonly used: Surgery to remove portions of the thyroid, which can be tricky; radioactive iodine therapy, which is effective, but expensive and requires isolation of the cat (Radiocat in Middletown does the procedure) or medication using Tapazole (Methimazole). Tapazole can be simple and effective if your cat tolerates pilling and the medication; the medication can also be applied transdermally. It’s important to follow up with regular blood tests to monitor the T4 levels and determine whether the medication needs to be adjusted.

This website – http://www.thensome.com/Hyperthyroidism.htm – has lots of informative articles about hyperthyroidism.
Sally

Ask Peter, "The Fish Doctor!"

Peter Oddo has been keeping and breeding tropical fish for over 6 years. He has raised more than 500 baby fish and maintains a saltwater reef tank and 7 other aquariums in his home. He installs aquariums in homes and offices for a living.

Q: Dear Peter,
How many fish can I keep in a 30 gallon aquarium?
Monica, Hartford

A: Dear Hilary,
A typical rule is 1 inch of fish per gallon of water, but this does not always hold true. Try to choose fish that only grows about 1"-2" fully grown and you should be able to keep 10-12 fish.
Peter

Ask the Lazi Birds!

Steve and Diane Lazicki have been rescuing and working with birds for over 8 years, as well as raising them as pets since childhood. They live with over 150 birds in their "bird house," so they have a wealth of bird expertise. Direct your bird related questions to the Lazi Birds.

Q: Are toys necessary for birds? Our bird just kind-of sits there on his perch and seems OK just to have us in the room with him. He whistles at us and I think he's happy.

A: DEFINITELY! In the wild birds are on the go and foraging constantly, they need the stimulation for one thing. As far as your bird seeming happy, I'm sure he is while you are there with him. Have you ever wondered what he does when nobody is there? I'll tell you, he's bored, bored, bored. When bored some species will start to pluck feathers and even go to the point of self-mutilation. Birds are intelligent, curious and playful. We actually have TV on for our guys and they seem to prefer cartoons. A radio is also good. Hook bills NEED to chew. Even the soft bills need stimulation. You can actually make toys that will stimulate. A roll of toilet paper that your bird can shred (larger birds) provides satisfaction. Also, you can take paper towels, roll them and weave them through the cage bars. Birds LOVE to weave. It's a natural instinct for weaving nests. Foot toys are also enjoyed by many birdies. Birds also see in color and like bright primary colors, but you'll need to be careful in regard to dye, some are toxic to your birds. You can also get clothespins at just about any dollar store. You don't want the kind you have to open, the old fashioned, one piece, slip on is what you want. You can use food coloring and slip them onto the cage bars. If your bird is not used to toys, you will have to introduce them slowly. You can start by playing with the toy yourself, your bird will be curious. Lay the toy down near the cage for a few days, each day playing with it and laying it back down a little closer to the cage each time. Then you can attach it to the outside of the cage, when you see your bird trying to get it, put it inside. You also need to inspect toys for frayed edges that your bird can get caught in. Regular inspection of all toys is very important! It is also very entertaining for all to see a birdie playing with toys.

PS You can buy toys at pet stores that are brightly colored and bird safe. Regular inspections are still necessary and introduction is the same. "A busy bird is a happy bird"
Love, Grammie & Pa
www.LaziBirds.com