Giving grieving cat extra love can help healing process

Dear Cathy: My 15-yearold male cat Cosmo was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma July 6. The tumor grew so fast. We discussed options with our vet. Because of Cosmo’s age, we sadly decided to euthanize him July 31.

His brother cat Marv, 17, seems to be doing OK, but I think he misses Cosmo’s companionship.

We would like to adopt a new cat, and I am wondering about some things. Should we adopt a young cat or an older one? Male or female? How long should we wait? Marv is pretty easygoing and seems to get along with other cats well. — Terry, Waupaca, Wisconsin

Dear Terry: I am so sorry for your loss, but don’t feel like you have to rush to adopt a new companion for him. A new pet will probably divert attention from Marv, who needs your affection now more than ever.

Sometimes, taking a few weeks to sit with a grieving animal and giving it extra love helps the healing process for both of you.

Some senior pets dislike the new energy a kitten brings to a home. I recommend adopting an older cat. Older cats are often overlooked at animal shelters. Look for an easygoing female and keep her in a separate room for a few days to give them each time to pick up on each other’s scent before making formal introductions.

Dear Cathy: Several times a month, birds will fly into our windows. Some bounce off and fly away; some hit with such force that they don’t survive. Is there anything we can do to prevent or decrease the number of these crashes? — Jim, Cetronia, Pennsylvania

Dear Jim: Bird groups estimate that more than 100 million birds die each year in the U.S. from hitting windows. Thankfully, we can do our part to prevent these tragedies. There are a lot of options, including installing bird-safe screens, adding decals, painting, taping lines a few inches apart on the window, and adding awnings (to reduce glare) or outside shutters. It just depends on your budget and what aesthetics you want to achieve.

Some of my bird rescue friends suggested “Zen Window Curtains,” a product made from paracord that is mounted to the outside of the window. It reduces bird window strikes while still providing a clear view to the outside world. Their website, birdsavers.com, also gives directions on how to make your own.

Visit the American Bird Conservancy’s website for a list of other recommendations.