ArcaMax

The problem in multiple-cat homes is that relationship issues can develop among the cats. Sometimes cats are clear about the fact that they're not getting along, but in other instances they're more subtle.

The problem is likely fixable, however, you may need qualified hands-on help to pinpoint exactly what's going on. Contact a veterinary behaviorist (www.dacvb.org) or cat behavior consultant (www.iaabc.org).

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Q: My veterinarian says my 9-year-old Schnauzer-mix has four loose middle teeth. The vet said this problem is common in the breed, and says these teeth need to be pulled. I do brush the dog's teeth with dog toothpaste, and I add a drop of oil of oregano to remove tartar. Is there any way to save these teeth? -- E.C., Bristol, CT

A: "Saving the teeth might not be in your dog's best interest," says Dr. Kate Knutson, of Bloomington, MN, immediate American Animal Hospital Association past president. "In people, it's likely the dentist may recommend implants, but in pets that (procedure) is expensive, and not suggested."

Of course, pets don't care much how they look in the mirror or at fancy cocktail parties, however, they do care if they're in pain.

"If your veterinarian can appreciate how loose those teeth are without x-rays, they must be awfully loose, and therefore likely diseased -- and that's painful," says Knutson. Your dog will actually feel better after the teeth are pulled."

Knutson says treatment of the diseased gums and (tooth) maintenance (which you're obviously diligent about), combined with proactive veterinary preventive care using OraStrips (to detect periodontal disease) three or four times a year, will help enormously before anything really bad happens again. OraStrips provide an inexpensive early warning system. The veterinarian wipes a strip across the pet's teeth and gums. No anesthesia is required.

As for the oregano, there's no scientific evidence that oil from the herb will deter tartar, but there's no harm in using it, and when your dog offers a kiss, her breath smells like meatballs.

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Steve Dale welcomes questions/comments from readers. Although he can't answer all of them individually, he'll answer those of general interest in his column Send e-mail to PETWORLD(at)STEVE DALE.TV. Include your name, city and state. Steve's website is www.stevedalepetworld.com; he also hosts the nationally syndicated "Steve Dale's Pet World" and "The Pet Minute." He's also a contributing editor to USA Weekend.

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