Dr. Dan Christian specializes in small animal medicine, with special interests in behavior and nutrition. He has been instrumental in establishing animal behavior residencies for veterinarians at leading veterinary schools and developing innovative programs with veterinary organizations in the United States. He is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American Animal Hospital Association, and the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association. During his professional career, Dr. Christian earned the American Association of Feline Practitioners Award. He has also appeared as a guest on television and radio pet health programs nationwide, and to has authored numerous articles for pet health magazines.

Q: I have a four-month-old kitten whom I adopted off the street. I've noticed recently that when he goes out onto the patio he eats dirt (about once a day!). Is this a sign of illness, such as anemia, and what can I do to solve the problem?

A: While many of our pets, both cats and dogs, will eat unusual things, including dirt, it is rarely a sign of a nutrient deficiency. Rather, it is a behavioral craving for the unusual tastes. Some cats have been known to lick concrete patios or even chew rocks. It's a behavior trait that can usually be corrected by removing the cat's desired material for an extended period of time. In your case, you may want to keep him indoors for awhile, or consider dispersing pepper (black or chili) or other undesirable tastes, in the dirt around the patio.

Of course, you should always have your kitten examined by a veterinarian immediately after you get him, to make sure there are no parasites or other signs of illness, and to get the proper vaccinations and schedule him for neutering. Your veterinarian can give your kitten a clean bill of health and put to rest your concerns about any deficiencies.