• Last updated 4/17/12 by Anne

Thinking of getting a cat? Practice first.   What is the best way to introduce a cat to children? One at a time. If you have multiple kids, introduce one kid at a time to the cat. It’s easier for parents to keep an eye on a fast moving child and an even faster cat, if there’s only one of each to watch. Practice Makes Perfect (Sense) A stuffed animal is a good way to practice with young children. Point out Kitty’s eyes, ears, nose and toes. Remind that a tail helps him keep his balance when he runs—it’s not a handle. Show how to hold a cat—under the front legs... read more

• Last updated 2/28/12 by Anne

There are a variety of theories about why cats knead—both front paws pushing at your leg, your arm, your face. One thing is for sure. If you have a cat who loves to push/pull on your body parts, you need to keep his nails clipped! Male cats can get a little rough about this.   When kittens are nursing, kneading Mama Cat helps produce more breakfast, lunch and dinner for the kittens. The memory of comfort and care stays with the kitten as he grows. He pokes and prods you as a form of affection.   If your cat is not spayed, kneading can be a sign that a heat... read more

• Last updated 2/28/12 by Anne

Written by Mary Anne Miller You have gotten so much satisfaction out of your one resident cat; you decide it's time to introduce another feline into your home. So you go out and you bring home a cat either from a shelter, or you found a stray or visited a cattery. What is the first thing you need to do now? First off, for any newcomer if not already vetted, you need to have the new cat or kitten over to the vet to be tested for all the standard diseases. If it is a stray or rescue ask the vet to do a fecal, check for fleas and flea-dirt, ear mites, lice,... read more

• Last updated 2/28/12 by Anne

Written by Amy Shojai August 2003 Dear Readers, We've a theme column this month, with much to discuss regarding improper elimination and marking behavior. Other questions concerned late night shenanigans, and unwelcome homecoming "urps." This month's Tabby Tip at the end of the column offers some suggestions about stovetop urination-Ewwwwwwww!!! - and suggests ways to address that. I'm also pleased that so many folks like my latest book "Complete Care for Your Aging Cat." For folks with more youthful furry friends, "Complete Kitten Care" is available to answer... read more

• Last updated 2/28/12 by Anne

Written by Amy Shojai July 2003 Dear Readers, This month's column offers a great example of how feline health can impact behavior, and vice versa. That's why it's so very important to include your veterinarian whenever your cat shows any sudden change. Other questions concerned intercat aggression-please refer also to the February 2003 TabbyTudes column for more helpful advice. You also had more litter box concerns, and wondered about "heat" behavior in an already spayed kitty. This month's Tabby Tip at the end of the column explains why your cat might go... read more

• Last updated 2/28/12 by Anne

Written by Amy Shojai June 2003 Dear Readers, This month we return to litter-ary issues, one of the most common challenges cat owners must face. In addition, readers wondered how to accommodate cats when owners are away, dealing with cat demands, and helping resident cats accept newcomers to the house. This month's Tabby Tip at the end of the column suggests ways to handle hand-gnawing cats. Of course, many more issues are addressed in my books-I hope you'll watch for the latest title, "Complete Care for Your Aging Cat" available early next... read more

• Last updated 2/28/12 by Anne

Written by Amy Shojai May 2003 Dear Readers, This past month you kept my in-box filled with questions. I'm delighted TabbyTudes is so popular, but discouraged that I don't have more time to reply individually-some questions will have to wait until next month. Since most of your letters dealt with kitty aggression, this month's column addresses how to understand and deal with that issue. I've chosen one letter to feature, but my response should also answer other readers' aggression concerns. I also offer some insight and advice for owners of "amorous" kitties,... read more

• Last updated 2/28/12 by Anne

Written by Amy Shojai March 2003 Dear Readers, Welcome back to the second issue of the new monthly TabbyTudes Column. I'm delighted at the letters you've sent this past month. I regret that I'm only able to answer a single letter in detail, offering some behavior insight and advice to help foster the bond we share with our special felines. If your feline behavior question isn't specifically addressed, please take a look at the Tabby Tip at the end of each column. I'll try to address a couple more questions there. And of course, lots more information is... read more

• Last updated 2/28/12 by Anne

Written by Amy Shojai February 2003 Dear Readers, I am delighted to be writing the TabbyTudes Column. I look forward to hearing from you about your feline's foibles, and hope to offer useable advice and insight that will improve the lives we share with our special felines. Although I can't answer every letter in detail, where possible I will try to offer some general advice at the end of each column, to address readers' concerns that have been raised. And of course, lots more information is available in my books. Purrs, Amy Letter of the Month: Our... read more

• Last updated 2/28/12 by Anne

Written by Amy Shojai April 2003 Dear Readers, Another month has gone by, and it's time for the next TabbyTudes Column. This installment deals with a complex mystery-that has a surprising and happy resolution! I also offer some insight and advice for owners of "mouthy" kitties (the biters and the yowlers), to help you maintain the bond you share with your special felines-and get some sleep. If your feline behavior question isn't specifically addressed, please take a look at the Tabby Tip at the end of each column. I'll try to address a couple more questions... read more