DEAR ABBY: One night last week, I accidentally poisoned my cat and almost killed him. All I did was put a small amount of flea and tick powder on him that was meant for my dog.
To make a long story short, the next morning I rushed my poor sick kitty to the closest vet. While the doctor was treating my feline, he told me that the mistake I made is a common one that he has seen many times.
Since then, I have spoken with two people whose pets died because they made the same unfortunate mistake.
I can't thank the good doctor and his staff enough for saving my beloved cat -- and for all their kindness when I was so distraught. Abby, I hope this warning will prevent other pet owners from making this same terrible mistake. -- JAMES C. EMERICK, VERO BEACH, FLA.
DEAR JAMES: I'm pleased your cat survived, and thank you for alerting other cat owners about the potential danger. Spring and summer are flea and tick season, so your warning is a timely one.
P.S. Please don't be so hard on yourself. Nobody is purr-fect.