People flip over puppies but, to me, a well-loved older dog is one of the most beautiful creatures on earth. An older dog has a nobleness about him, a look in the eyes that speaks of years of the special love that only a pet can give -- trusting, nonjudgmental and unwaveringly true.

Your dog's health as he ages is not entirely in your control, but you can have a real impact on his attitude. Your dog doesn't know he's getting older. His gray hairs concern him not, nor does he worry about the other visible effects of time -- the thickening of his body, the thinning of his limbs. He doesn't count the number of times he can fetch a ball before tiring and compare that to his performance when he was a young dog in his prime.

A dog lives in the now. Just as he doesn't reflect on his past, he can't imagine his future. Your dog takes his cues from you. When you're upbeat, encouraging and loving, he'll be at his best no matter his age.

This time can be a special one for both of you, and it's up to you to make the most of it.

As your dog ages, increase the frequency and diminish the intensity of his exercise. Instead of taking your dog to the park once a week to chase tennis balls until he's exhausted, take him for a long walk daily. If your dog is having problems with physical activity, talk to your veterinarian. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications may help, as may supplements such as glucosamine or alternative treatments such as acupuncture.

Your dog has no real sense of shame or embarrassment, so he suffers no loss of face if you come up with some ideas to make his life a little easier. I once bought a wagon so an older dog with bad legs could go to the park -- the best part was the harness that let the younger dog pull the load! Truly, the number of ways you can give your oldster a break is limited only by your imagination. Here are a few tips to get you thinking:

-- Beds. Think soft. Think cushioned. Think low. Think heated. Your dog will thank you for all of these thoughts, especially in cold weather.

-- Clothes. Older dogs, like older people, have a more difficult time maintaining their body temperature. This problem is even more pronounced in slender, short-coated breeds like the greyhound or whippet. So check out the sweater selection at your local pet-supply store.

-- Dishes. Raised food and water dishes are helpful to tall dogs of any age, but they are especially easy on the back of an oldster. You can find them at pet-supply stores, or you can make your own booster for your dog's dishes.

-- Ramps and steps. If your dogs are allowed on the couch and the bed, consider buying or building steps to help the dog who can no longer make it in one jump. You wouldn't want to watch TV without your dog at your side, would you? A permanent ramp going down the back-porch step or a slide-out one to help your dog into the car will also be appreciated.

While you're making household adjustments, don't forget to make an appointment for a senior dog checkup. Your veterinarian may recommend some diagnostic tests in addition to a physical examination -- typically bloodwork and an X-ray -- to spot problems early, or to establish a baseline of what's normal for your dog. You should also consider having your dog's teeth attended to, because gum infections and mouth pain will severely affect the comfort and health of your dog.

The senior dog checkup is also a good time to determine if your dog's slowing down means his diet will need to change to take excess weight off his joints.

Helping to keep your older dog healthy and fit will mean his senior years will be happier and more comfortable. And that will be good news for you both.

SIDEBAR

Should a new puppy wait?

Having an old dog makes some people long for a puppy. If you're among them, you want to be as sure as you can be that your older dog will welcome the new addition.

For some older dogs, a puppy is a big boost to the senior's enthusiasm for life. For others, a puppy's energy and attention are enough to make an older dog want to leave home.

In general, older dogs who are still fit and full of life will probably get the most out of a puppy; elderly or severely debilitated dogs will enjoy it least.

If you do add a puppy, don't let your older dog overextend himself, and put the puppy in a crate or behind a baby-gate now and then to give your oldster a break.

Q&A

Tiny greyhounds hard to contain

Q: I just read the inquiry in your column about pet gates from the owner of an 8-month-old Italian greyhound. Would you pass along some invaluable information?

Italian greyhounds can get into more mischief (intentionally and accidentally) than any breed I know of. Unfortunately, some of their antics result in emergency trips to the vet. As for the baby gates, I'd pass on them. These guys can both jump and climb. They have been known to climb 6-foot-tall cyclone fences, and they can easily climb baby gates.

When our Italian greyhound was just a pup, we had the best luck with using an exercise pen with a canvas top that was lashed on well. That's the only thing that worked with our little Houdini.

I still have to keep a close eye on our dog because she is a kitchen counter surfer. She can jump on the kitchen counters with ease like a cat. As a result, we must take care to put away knives and foods, and to make certain the burners are cool before we leave the room. It's a challenge!

There is a Web site called IG Post (www.igpost.com) that offers guidance, support and much more to Italian greyhound owners. I know that everyone thinks that his or her breed is special, but these guys are truly unique in their abilities and needs. I don't think we would have made it through puppyhood without the IG Post. -- S.J., via e-mail

A: Thanks for the information. I heard from a few other Italian greyhound fans as well, including one who suggested mounting a screen door inside to keep a pup from wandering where he shouldn't.

It's true that Italian greyhounds are extremely athletic, fast and agile, and also very delicate. Broken legs are a real problem in this breed, which is why these animals really need owners who'll look out for them. Like their larger relatives the whippet and the greyhound, Italian greyhounds also have difficulty staying warm. In the winter, a dog sweater on any of these breeds is a kindness.

"The Italian Greyhound Nuts and Bolts Book" by Patricia Kelly is a great addition to the library of anyone with one of these dogs. I got a copy as a door prize at a conference a few years ago and was impressed with the thoroughness of this self-published book. You can buy it for $16 from Dogwise (www.dogwise.com).

Babies and cats

Q: My son and daughter-in-law are expecting their first baby in September. They have an indoor, declawed cat.

I have always heard that a cat can suck a baby's breath away because of the milk smell. Is that an old wives' tale? I've never owned a cat, but it seems logical to me. What can they do to keep their cat? I suggested putting a screen door on the baby's room. -- S.C., via e-mail

A: It's an old wives' tale. Cats do not suck the breath from babies. The idea that they do probably stems from cats being around when babies were found dead from what was likely sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS. The idea that the cat was responsible seemed logical then, too, but we know otherwise today.

That said, it's always a good idea to keep an eye on young children and pets. The screen door idea is actually an excellent one that I've suggested before. It allows your son and daughter-in-law to keep their pet out of the nursery when one of them is not in the room, while allowing their pet to get used to the sounds and smells of the infant.

(Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com.)

PET TIP

Publications packed with great articles

Every year the Whole Dog Journal comes out with a list of its approved dry dog foods, products that offer high-grade ingredients and natural preservatives. The list grows longer every year, as small companies pop up to satisfy the market for high-end kibble, and more established pet-food manufacturers offer products aimed at this niche.

This year's list is the heart of the February issue. The selections, along with the publication's rationale for choosing them, make for thoughtful reading for any dog lover.

The Whole Dog Journal is $20 for 13 issues, or $16 for the electronic edition only (www.wholedogjournal.com, 800-424-7887).

Another notable publication out with a new issue is the House Rabbit Journal, the quarterly newsletter of the House Rabbit Society.

The organization seeks to raise awareness of proper care for pet rabbits, including education about their suitability as pets for adults. The HRS also runs a rabbits-only shelter in Richmond, Calif.

The journal is an unusually eclectic pet publication. Its current issue has a piece on rabbit-proofing the house along with an article on the stereotypes promulgated by rabbit images in the popular media. It also has success stories from successful adoptions, articles on training, and a commentary against the growing popularity of rabbit meat.

The House Rabbit Journal comes with an $18 annual membership to the House Rabbit Society (www.rabbit.org, 510-970-7575).

PET Rx

Don't worry over a broken feather

Blood feathers, or pinfeathers, are feathers just starting to grow out, covered with waxy sheaths and equipped with a healthy blood supply to support growth.

A broken pinfeather is rarely a life-threatening emergency in an otherwise healthy bird, contrary to popular opinion. If one of these feathers gets accidentally broken, it will most likely clot on its own.

Birds with chronic health problems -- usually involving the liver -- may have clotting problems, and these birds may be predisposed to bleeding problems. Talk to your bird's veterinarian if you have a concern.

Blood feathers are sensitive and seem to itch as they mature, so many birds love to have their incoming feathers scratched by their owners. If you kink or hurt one of these developing feathers, though, you may get a protest from your pet.

(Pet Rx is provided by the Veterinary Information Network (VIN.com), an online service for veterinary professionals. More information can be found at www.veterinarypartner.com.)

PET TIP

More exercise may help curtail a digging dog

Are you frustrated with your dog's digging? It's essential to understand what's at the root of the problem before you can come up with a fair approach to minimizing the damage.

Digging is natural for dogs, with any number of triggers driving the activity. Among them:

-- Wanderlust. Some dogs, especially unneutered males, have a strong desire to dig their way out of the yard.

-- Prey drive. Subterranean wildlife is irresistible to some dogs, especially to terriers or terrier mixes.

-- Need for shelter. A well-dug den can keep a dog cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

-- Recreation. Digging is just plain fun.

-- Excess energy and boredom. This combination is either directly responsible for or is a contributing factor to most canine behavior problems.

Neutering can greatly reduce the desire to wander, so a trip to the veterinarian should be the first item on your list. If wildlife's a problem, contact your local agricultural extension for tips on how to control pests. And make sure your pet has the shelter he needs to stay comfortable no matter the weather.

Lack of exercise and, again, sheer boredom are often the biggest contributors to this behavior problem. If you make it impossible for your dog to dig -- say by cooping him up in a concrete-floored kennel run -- he may switch to another unwanted behavior such as nonstop barking or self-mutilation. Make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise every day.

With your dog's needs covered, design your yard for compromise. Make a less-visible part of the yard a dog-friendly free-dig zone, and limit your pet to that area when you can't be there to supervise. Discourage digging in off-limit areas by filling in holes and covering them with chicken wire and large rocks.

BY THE NUMBERS

Biting the Big Apple

The top dogs will soon be in New York City for the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, Feb. 13 and 14. All 165 breeds and varieties recognized by the American Kennel Club will be represented at the show. The top 10 entries by breed (note: counts for dachshunds and poodles include all three varieties within the breeds):

Dachshund

Poodle

Samoyed

Cavalier King Charles spaniel

Golden retrievers

Rhodesian ridgeback

Australian shepherd

Chinese crested

Havanese

French bulldog

PETS ON THE WEB

Helping kids love caring for pets

If the How to Love Your Dog Web site (www.loveyourdog.com) seems as if it were put together by someone who loves kids, dogs and helping kids learn how to care for their dogs, it's with good reason. The author, Janet Wall, is a longtime educator who, along with her two therapy dogs, volunteers in a pediatric oncology unit.

Her love of children and animals comes through on every page, along with commonsense advice for children on dog care and training. The most popular page, according to Wall, is the one on trick-training, always fun for kids and dogs alike. More than a dozen tricks are listed, along with instructional video to help understand the steps in training.

For those children who are begging for a dog, Wall helps them to understand that not every home is ready for a dog, and why.

Gina Spadafori is the award-winning author of "Dogs for Dummies," "Cats for Dummies" and "Birds for Dummies." She is also affiliated with the Veterinary Information Network Inc., an international online service for veterinary professionals. Write to her in care of this newspaper, or send e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com. You can also read her frequently updated Web log or view her column archives at www.spadafori.com.

4520 Main St., Kansas City, Mo. 64111; (816) 932-6600

Last week, I offered a short quiz for cat lovers. In the interest of fairness, I've pulled out a few questions for dog lovers. How well do you know our canine companions?

1. Which of these dogs is "made in America"?

(a) The toy fox terrier

(b) The Australian shepherd

(c) Chesapeake Bay retriever

(d) All of them

2. What were Labradoodles first bred for?

(a) Service dogs

(b) Circus dogs

(c) Their funny-sounding name

(d) As a source of curly fur for yarn

3. Which of these statements is true:

(a) A dog wagging his tail will not bite.

(b) A barking dog will not bite.

(c) A dog who's afraid of you will not bite

(d) Any dog is capable of biting.

4. The earliest a puppy can be spayed or neutered is:

(a) 9 months

(b) 8 weeks

(c) 6 months

(d) 5 months

5. The Labrador retriever has been the most popular American Kennel Club breed of dog for more than a decade. Which breed was the Labrador's predecessor at the top of the list?

(a) Golden retriever

(b) Cocker spaniel

(c) Poodle

(d) Boxer

6. Define "dewclaws":

(a) Special pads that help detect moisture on the grass

(b) Vestigial toes found on the legs of some dogs

(c) An operation to remove claws

(d) A type of nail-trimmer

7. Which of these is not a "sighthound"?

(a) Bloodhound

(b) Whippet

(c) Irish wolfhound

(d) Greyhound

8. How many teeth does a dog normally have?

(a) 36

(b) 42

(c) 28

(d) 46

9. If a dog has a cold, wet nose, his temperature is normal. True or false?

10. "Terriers" got their names from:

(a) Their delight in tearing things to bits

(b) Their ability to dig after prey or follow their prey underground

(c) Their tenacious nature

(d) Their small size

ANSWERS

1. (d) According to the American Kennel Club, breeds developed in the United States include: The Alaskan malamute, American Eskimo dog, American foxhound, American water spaniel, American Staffordshire terrier, Australian shepherd, black and tan coonhound, Boston terrier, Chesapeake Bay retriever, Plott hound and toy fox terrier. There are other American breeds not recognized by the AKC, including the Boykin spaniel, various coonhounds and the Catahoula leopard dog. (You read that right: The Australian shepherd in an American dog.)

2. (a) Labradoodles, a cross between a poodle (usually a standard) and a Labrador retriever, were originally bred in Australia in hopes of developing a service dog with the low-allergy coat of the poodle. The Labradoodle kicked off the current fashion of creatively named mixed-breed dogs, the most currently "hot" of which is the puggle, a mix of beagle and pug.

3. (d) Animal experts warn that any dog is capable of biting. Stiff, upright posture and an erect, wagging tail can be signs of aggression. Other dogs may bite if in pain or frightened.

4. (b) Although most dogs are neutered just before sexual maturity, puppies can safely altered as early as 8 weeks of age. Neutering before sexual maturity can help with behavior problems in male dogs and health problems in females. (And help reduce pet overpopulation, of course!)

5. (c) The poodle -- toy, miniature and standard combined -- was once America's top dog. Cockers have also enjoyed a long run at the top.

6. (b) Dewclaws are vestigial toes found up the inside of a dog's leg. Not all dogs have them, and some who are born with them have them removed. Some dogs, like the Great Pyrenees, have double dewclaws on their hind legs. Special care must be taken to keep the nails on dewclaws trimmed, because they don't touch the ground so do not get ground down at all.

7. (a) The bloodhound is a "scenthound" -- a dog who hunts by following a scent trail. Sighthounds follow movement with their eyes and run down their quarry with their speed.

8. (b) Around 3 months of age, the 28 puppy teeth will start falling out, to be replaced with 42 permanent teeth. Puppy teeth come in at 8 weeks and are usually gone by the age of 6 months to 8 months.

9. False. A dog's temperature is normal when it's 101 degrees Fahrenheit to 102.5 F, as determined by a rectal thermometer.

10. (b) The name "terrier" is derived from "terra," or "earth," and reflects these dogs' ability to follow their prey underground.

How'd you do? If you got them all right, you really know your dogs. If you got fewer than half right, don't despair. You know your dog still loves you.

Q&A

Cheap option on heartworm?

Q: I agree with you that drugs to prevent heartworm are essential for any dog living in the South. But I am surprised you didn't offer people on limited incomes the obvious solution. Ivermectin, the ingredient in dog heartworm pills, is a common over-the-counter livestock medicine. Pennies a dose! -- M.Y., via e-mail

A: While it's true that Ivermectin is given to livestock as well as dogs, I don't recommend that anyone give medication of any kind to pets before checking with a veterinarian.

If you wish to ensure the safe use of any form of Ivermectin in your pet, ask your veterinarian for advice. Although the safety record on Ivermectin is good, the drug could be deadly if given to a dog already infested with heartworms. Testing for heartworms is a must before preventive medication is started. An additional concern: Some breeds -- notably collies -- have problems with the drug.

Incidentally, heartworm disease is not just a problem in the Southern United States -- it's been found in all states. No matter where you live, it's a pretty good bet your dog should be on heartworm prevention. Cats, too, can become infested with heartworms.

Talk to your veterinarian about how to prevent heartworm disease in your pets.

Key to a problem

Q: My 85-pound Labrador retriever swallowed a key that is part of the remote to lock the car. He has shown no problems, and we have not found anything in his feces. I called the emergency vet when it happened on Christmas Day, and she said just to keep an eye on him. What are your thoughts? -- M.A., via e-mail

A: If your dog is eating, drinking and eliminating normally, there's probably nothing to worry about. In fact, you may have already missed the key's re-emergence, despite checking for it. Follow up with your regular veterinarian, though. If the key is still in there, it may be possible to remove it without surgery through the use of endoscopy.

Labradors are well-known in veterinary offices for their eagerness to consume just about anything that's not nailed down -- and even some things that are. Socks, underwear, rocks, keys, toys, cell phones -- if it can fit in the mouth, there's a Labrador who will swallow it. The best cure for this is preventive, especially with young dogs. Keep anything that can be swallowed picked up and put out of reach of your dog.

While many swallowed objects will pass through without causing problems, others can be deadly. If a pet vomits, loses interest in eating or drinking or otherwise seems "off" after ingesting a foreign body, you'll need your veterinarian's help.

Checking for fat

Q: I have a Lab-shepherd mix. He weighs in at 86 pounds to 90 pounds, but I wouldn't say he's fat. A German shepherd by nature is a big dog, so depending on which characteristics a mixed breed ends up with will mean a lot. I think if the dog's height and length are more in line with a German shepherd than a Lab, then expect more weight. What do you think? -- T.B., via e-mail

A: It doesn't really matter what the mix is. It's pretty easy to tell when a dog's at the right weight, and it's determined by physical attributes, not by a scale.

Although ribs should not be visible, they should be able to be easily felt under the skin, with a small -- repeat, small! -- padding of flesh over them. The dog should also have a definite tuck-up of a waist when viewed from the side or a tuck-in from above. If you're not sure, ask your veterinarian. Once the healthy weight for a dog is determined, you can check his weight every so often, along with his physical appearance, to see how he is doing.

(Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com.)

PET Rx

Cat tails can and do break

Image: fluffy tail (Universal/Richard Schmidt)

Caption: A tail is more than beautiful: It's one of the ways cats communicate.

Cats get their tails broken in many ways. A child might pull a tail, or a tail might get caught in a closing door. A tail can get bitten during a cat fight and, of course, automobile accidents can easily lead to dislocated or broken tails. One might think a tail break would involve an obvious external wound, but usually this is not the case. Instead, nerve damage is the usual tip-off.

Cats with broken tails might show such symptoms as:

-- A tail that drags or is never held high.

-- Involuntary dribbling of urine, or litter box problems.

-- Lack of coordination of the rear legs.

An X-ray will often confirm a break in the tail or a dislocation, although in some cases the tail bones are intact. How permanent the problems are depends largely on whether the nerves have been overstretched or actually torn. In many cases, if a trauma is severe enough to break the tail, there may be additional injuries as well.

Your veterinarian will evaluate the severity of your cat's condition and discuss treatment options.

(Pet Rx is provided by the Veterinary Information Network (VIN.com), an online service for veterinary professionals. More information can be found at www.veterinarypartner.com.)

PET TIP

Indoor cats can enjoy a stroll

Indoor cats can be trained to enjoy an outing outdoors on leash, and for this treat, you need a harness. (Because cat collars are made to enable cats to slip out of them, don't use a collar with a leash.)

Choose a harness designed for cats, not for dogs, in a figure-eight design. As collars do, harnesses come in many colors, with lightweight leashes to match.

Don't expect your cat to heel like a dog. Walking a cat really consists of encouraging your pet to explore, with you following, offering plenty of praise and maybe a treat or two.

Never leave your cat tethered and unattended, which leaves him vulnerable to attack or to a terrifying time of hanging suspended from his harness should he try to get over a fence.

THE SCOOP

Good groomer a necessity for many dogs

For dogs such as poodles, bichons and many terriers, finding a good groomer is almost a necessity, because the coat-maintenance involved with these breeds is beyond the ability or interest of most pet lovers.

For many other dogs, such as collies, spaniels and the like, regular attention from a professional groomer can make at-home coat maintenance such as combing and brushing more manageable, and can keep dogs looking and smelling better.

About the only dogs who don't benefit much from a groomer's touch are shorthaired pets, whose coats are easy enough for the average person to maintain.

Start your groomer search by asking friends, neighbors and co-workers for recommendations. Your dog's veterinarian or trainer may also be able to refer you to one.

Avoid groomers who hold your pet for much longer than the time it takes to groom him. A good groomer should need only two to four hours, at most, for a routine wash and clip, unless your dog is matted and tangled. If the groomer wants your dog dropped off in the morning and can't say when he'll be done, find another groomer. There's no reason for your dog to hang out all day when he's not being worked on.

You have a role to play, too. Don't wait so long between appointments that your dog is full of mats and then expect the groomer to be able to work them out. Listen to your groomer: If she says clipping the coat away is the best way to go, you're better off following her advice than subjecting your dog to hours of fur-pulling.

Make sure, too, that the groomer is clear on what you expect your dog to look like when she's done if clipping is involved. And if you don't want bows, nail polish and perfume, don't forget to speak up beforehand.

BY THE NUMBERS

Top dogs for 2005

America loves retrievers, with Labradors and goldens coming in at the top spots in just-released ranking of American Kennel Club registrations for 2005. Small dogs continue to rise in popularity, with more than half of the dogs in the top 10 of the diminutive variety.

1. Labrador retriever

2. Golden retriever

3. Yorkshire terrier

4. German shepherd

5. Beagle

6. Dachshund

7. Boxer

8. Poodle

9. Shih tzu

10. Miniature schnauzer

PETS ON THE WEB

Behavior advice on problem birds

Not that long ago most pet parrots were wild-caught, and these frightened, confused birds were often poor companions. The parrot earned a reputation as a pet who would just as soon bite you as look at you.

From a parrot's point of view, the biting made sense. They were reacting in the only way they knew how to protect themselves in an environment they found unfamiliar and often frightening.

Today's pet parrots are mostly hand-raised and socialized to understand that people won't hurt them. But biting can still be a problem, only now it's often the sign of a relationship that has gotten off-track.

Parrot behavior expert Liz Wilson knows a lot about what makes parrots bite, and shares information on how to stop the behavior as part of an excellent series of articles on the Up at Six Web site (www.upatsix.com/liz).

Gina Spadafori is the award-winning author of "Dogs for Dummies," "Cats for Dummies" and "Birds for Dummies." She is also affiliated with the Veterinary Information Network Inc., an international online service for veterinary professionals. Write to her in care of this newspaper, or send e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com. You can also read her frequently updated Web log or view her column archives at www.spadafori.com.

4520 Main St., Kansas City, Mo. 64111; (816) 932-6600

Sure, you love your cat, but how much do you know about our favorite pets? Test yourself with a short quiz to see if you're a true feline fancier. The answers are at the end.

1. When used to describe a cat's behavior, "bunting" is when a cat:

(a) Uses urine to mark a doorway

(b) "Chatters" at the sight of a bird

(c) Bumps and rubs his head to leave a scent mark

(d) Bats around his prey

2. Which of these is not a reason why cats claw things?

(a) To keep claws sharp and help remove worn claw sheathes

(b) To leave scent on an object

(c) To provide muscles with a good stretch

(d) To be spiteful

3. A cat who's getting agitated to the point of lashing out while being petted will often have a tail that's:

(a) Twitching and flipping at the tip

(b) Wagging gently from the base

(c) Perfectly still

(d) Carried straight up

4. Cats purr when they're:

(a) Content

(b) Frightened

(c) Injured

(d) All of the above

5. Most cats have how many whiskers?

(a) 18

(b) 24

(c) 32

(d) 56

6. Which of the following places are not good for petting, in the opinion of most cats?

(a) Tummy

(b) Underside of chin

(c) Base of tail

(d) Side of face

7. The average cat weighs:

(a) Between 12 and 15 pounds

(b) Between 8 and 10 pounds

(c) More than 15 pounds

(d) Between 6 and 8 pounds

8. Cats start their grooming routine by:

(a) Licking their tail tips

(b) Licking their flanks

(c) Licking their lips

(d) Licking their paws

9. "High-rise" syndrome refers to:

(a) A cat's preference for perching on tall objects

(b) The ability of cats to live happily in upper-floor apartments

(c) The survival rate of cats who fall from high places

(d) A cat's enjoyment of a good view

10. The normal body temperature of a cat is:

(a) 97 degrees

(b) Between 100 and 102.5 degrees

(c) 99 degrees

(d) 104 degrees

ANSWERS

1. (c) Every cat lover is familiar with "bunting," which is what a cat does when he bumps and rubs on something, such as your leg or hand.

2. (d) Contrary to common belief, cats don't destroy your sofa for spite, but because clawing is natural feline behavior.

3. (a) You may avoid a nasty bite by watching your cat's tail. When the tip starts to flip, end the petting session.

4. (d) Although most purring is a sign of contentment, cats have also been known to purr in stressful or painful situations.

5. (b) In most cats, the 24 whiskers are neatly divided into four rows on each side of the face. Each whisker -- they're technically called "vibrissae" -- is imbedded deeper than normal hairs to enhance its sensory input.

6. (a) Many cats become agitated if petted on the tummy, and they may claw or bite. Save tummy rubs for your dog!

7. (b) While most average-weight cats will come in between 8 pounds and 10 pounds, some cat breeds will normally be much heavier. A healthy cat should have a little padding over the ribs -- but not too much.

8. (c) A cat will generally groom himself in the same sequence, starting by licking his lips, then his paws, then rubbing the paws over his head. The tail is generally last to get cleaned.

9. (c) Cats can right themselves in midair and brace for impact if they have time, which is why cats have a better chance of surviving a fall from a few floors up than from a balcony closer to the ground. Above a certain height, however, no cat can survive the fall.

10. (b) Temperatures below 99 degrees or above 103 degrees are reason to worry -- and to call your veterinarian.

How'd you do? If you got them all right, you really know your cats. If you got fewer than half right, admit it: You're a dog person! If so, don't worry, because next week there'll be a quiz for you.

Q&A

Guessing no good when pets are sick

Q: My husband has had cats for years. He is a cat rescuer. We now have four cats, and they've had trouble recently with diarrhea. He gave them worming medicine two times for this.

We can't afford to take them to a veterinarian, as we are on a fixed income and have health problems ourselves. Should we give them more doses of worm medicine or just wait? My son had one of the cats, and he said the cat had roundworms when he had it. I think that cat spread it to our cats. -- J.R., via e-mail

A: Please don't give your cats any more medication until you know what's causing the diarrhea. Your son's guess at what's causing the problem isn't any better than yours is. And you have no way of knowing the cause of the intestinal upset without at least one of these animals seeing a veterinarian.

Without a proper diagnosis, you cannot know your proper treatment options. In such cases, over-the-counter or home remedies are a waste of time and money, and may even be harmful.

I realize that veterinarian expenses can strain the budget, but I also believe that making sure sick pets get the help they need is the responsibility of everyone who adopts an animal. Contact your local humane society or find a cat-rescue group to see if someone can steer you toward a veterinarian who will work with you when it comes to your budget and your cats' needs.

Much as your husband loves cats and wants to rescue them, it would be better if, when some of your current pets pass on, you limit the number of cats to one or two. That will help you afford the occasional trip to the veterinarian that all pets require.

"Rescuing" cats you can't care for does no favor to the animals involved. Better you should provide good care to one pet than poor care to four of them.

Missing the box

Q: My oldest cat, Company, is feral, and she is now about 12 years old. This past year, she has begun to miss the litter box. I have taken her to the veterinarian, which is an extremely hard thing to do because I am the only one whose handling she tolerates. She doesn't have an infection.

After reading your "Cats for Dummies" book, I thought I would try isolating her in the bathroom to see if she will start using the litter box. Am I supposed to be cleaning up after her while she is in isolation? -- A.B., via e-mail

A: Assuming your veterinarian did assure you of your cat's complete good health, then yes, retraining is definitely worth trying. The idea behind putting a cat in a small area such as a bathroom, with the rugs removed, is that potty options are pretty much limited to the box. Because some cats develop negative associations with their boxes, this technique may help them to get back on track.

As for cleaning up after your cat: Yes, you must. A scrupulously clean box is essential, and any outside-the-box mistakes must also be cleaned promptly and thoroughly.

If your cat still will not use the box, talk to your veterinarian again. Even though an infection was ruled out, I'd suspect some other medical issue is going on with your cat. If that's not the case, ask for a referral to a veterinary behaviorist who can develop a program for you to follow in re-training your cat and can prescribe medications that will ease your cat through the transition back to good behavior.

(Do you have a pet question? Send it to petconnection@gmail.com.)

PET Rx

Paralysis always a pet emergency

The inability to walk can develop suddenly, even without a history of injury. Such paralysis may be the result of a ruptured spinal disc, especially in low-slung dog breeds such as the dachshund. Paralysis can also be associated with an injury, such as a fall or vehicle accident. When paralysis is associated with trauma, fractures or instability of the spine may be the cause.

Paralysis should be considered a life-threatening emergency, and you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Prepare to transport your pet, using an ironing board or piece of plywood as a stretcher, keeping the animal as immobile as possible. Covering the pet with a blanket may help to keep him calm.

Don't encourage or allow your pet to move around, and do not provide any medication unless specifically instructed to by the veterinarian. Stay calm, and get your pet veterinary assistance immediately, either at your regular veterinary hospital or an emergency clinic.

Never trust a frightened, injured animal not to bite. A soft muzzle should be kept on hand for emergencies, or one can be fashioned out of gauze or even pantyhose in a pinch.

(Pet Rx is provided by the Veterinary Information Network (VIN.com), an online service for veterinary professionals. More information can be found at www.veterinarypartner.com.)

PET Buy

Keeping kitty off the keys

Relatively quiet and elegantly beautiful, the cat has been the preferred pet of many a writer or computer programmer. But anyone who has a cat and a computer -- which is most anyone these days -- knows that cats have a tendency to walk across keyboards.

The result? Deleted work, programs launched and even computer shutdowns. If we didn't know better, we'd swear our cats were doing it on purpose.

A couple of companies have come up with remedies. Perhaps the most straightforward solution is a protective cover, such as the Kittywalk keyboard cover and "mouse house" ($20) available from Cat Connection (www.catconnection.com, 866-386-MEOW).

A more high-tech solution is PawSense ($20), available from BitBoost Systems (www.bitboost.com). The PawSense computer program recognizes the patterns of a cat walking across the keyboard. The program prevents further input once it launches, puts up a screen-saver and has the computer emit a noise to annoy the cat into walking away.

THE SCOOP

Healthy beak key to a healthy parrot

The beaks of most parrots are remarkably well-designed for one of their most important tasks: cracking, crushing or prying open the protective coatings around many of the foods they eat.

Like everything else on a creature designed for flight, the beak is surprisingly lightweight, considering its strength. It's essentially a hard shell of constantly growing material (similar to that found on antlers) placed over a hollow bony structure. (If a beak were made of solid bone, its weight would probably force a bird to spend his life on the ground, and on his nose.)

Lightweight it may be, but a parrot's beak is also very strong. Although a person would need a hammer or nutcracker to get through hard shells to the nutmeat, a bird needs only his beak, and perhaps a foot to hold the nut in place.

A parrot has such strength in his beak that owners are often surprised to see even the bars of a metal cage fall victim. Birds have been known to pick off the welds holding bars together -- and sometimes get lead or zinc poisoning as a result -- or even snap the bars themselves. That's why a cheap cage with shoddy construction will turn out to be no bargain when faced with the destructive abilities of a parrot.

Although beaks are constantly growing at a rate of 1 inch to 3 inches per year, depending on the species, the beak of a healthy bird will remain at a healthy length with normal chewing activities -- no trimming required. In fact, an overgrown beak is frequently a sign of illness, such as liver disease or malnutrition.

Because a healthy beak is essential to a healthy bird, see an avian veterinarian if you observe any problems.

BY THE NUMBERS

What reptiles cost

Prices for pet reptiles and amphibians are influenced by such factors as the rarity of a species or unusual markings. The following figures are the 2004 reported average cost to buy such a pet. Averages include the 42 percent who paid nothing to acquire their pets, such as children catching frogs in the wild.

Snake $83

Iguana $70

Lizard $42

Turtle/tortoise $16

Frog/toad $9

Source: American Pet Products Manufacturers Association

PETS ON THE WEB

Guide good source for helping rats

Good veterinary care can be hard to find for little pets like rats. Not to mention, a lot of people balk at spending more to treat a so-called "pocket pet" than it costs to replace one.

Because of these rather stark realities, it's a good idea to put some effort into the proper care of these little pets and to have some basic knowledge of what to do when one gets sick.

The Rat Guide (www.ratguide.com) is just the ticket. The thorough and fully searchable collection of articles, developed with the assistance of veterinarians, offers countless suggestions to improve the lives of these affectionate pets. And if a rat does become ill, the guide can help there, too.

After all, just because a pet is inexpensive to acquire and care for doesn't mean it should have a miserable life, or be allowed to suffer when sick.

Gina Spadafori is the award-winning author of "Dogs for Dummies," "Cats for Dummies" and "Birds for Dummies." She is also affiliated with the Veterinary Information Network Inc., an international online service for veterinary professionals. Write to her in care of this newspaper, or send e-mail to petconnection@gmail.com. You can also read her frequently updated Web log or view her column archives at www.spadafori.com.

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