Q: Two months ago, my 3-year-old calico...

Q: Two months ago, my 3-year-old calico became very weak and died after two days in the veterinary hospital. My vet said she had infectious anemia which destroyed her blood cells. I am planning on getting a new kitten. What are her chances of her contracting this disease? Is there any preventive medicine that I can give her?

Lori Ferguson, La Mirada

A: Feline infectious anemia (FIA) is a disease that affects the red blood cells, which are invaded by a single-celled protozoan called Hemobartonella felis. The organism spreads throughout the vascular system and destroys the red blood cells, causing the anemia. The onset can be very gradual until the increased loss of the red blood cells causes the cat to become listless, weak, pale, lose her appetite, and even have difficulty breathing.

The treatment includes the use of antibiotics, steroids, intravenous fluids, vitamin supplementation, and even blood transfusions in severe cases. Unfortunately, not all cats respond favorably.

The organism is most likely spread by biting insects which come into contact with infected cats and then spread to normal cats. Cat bite wounds from infected cats could also be a source of infection. It generally spreads easily among a group of cats that are housed together. Since you do not have any other cats at home, the best method of prevention is controlling the insect population, such as fleas and mosquitoes. And, keep the kitten away from stray cats. You should have your kitten examined by your veterinarian.

Q: We have a half-Siamese male cat that has presented no problems until now. Suddenly he’s biting us, sometimes strong enough to break the skin. Casual friends have advised us to get rid of him. What can we do?

David W. Ewart, La Habra

A: Your cat’s biting behavior may be part of his stalking or playing pattern. Normally, a young cat will stalk and crouch by a “prey” and then attack by lunging or running after the target, which is you. To stop the cat from biting you, a toy should be used as the object of the play. If your cat starts after you or your wife, use something to make a loud noise or yell “no” immediately to discourage him.

This also means that you should not encourage him to play rough with you, since this only will make his biting more acceptable to him. Also consider that over-petting or scratching may be causing him to become agitated and bite. He also may be tender on certain areas of his back. A few cats are “hyperesthetic” meaning that their skin is very sensitive, even to the gentle touch, and may bite because they are sore. Be patient and discourage any episodes that may lead to his biting.