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 neutered, nine-year-old domestic shorthaired cat. He is quite a bit overweight and we are working on limiting his food intake. But even before this, he has been scratching and scratching. When he's not asleep, he's always itching. I groom him every second day but this has not helped. He doesn't have fleas and his skin doesn't look too dry (flakiness). I have taken him to the vet several times for this condition, but he has no further ideas as to why my cat is itching. We haven't changed the carpet, detergents or anything else that he is in contact with. Do you have any suggestions?

A: Unfortunately, so many of our cats are becoming overweight. In fact, some estimates are that almost 40 percent of the cat population is obese. First, make sure your cat has no medical conditions, such as thyroid problems or diabetes, which are prevalent with overweight cats. Often, thyroid conditions exist along with skin problems, so ask your veterinarian for a laboratory test for thyroid functioning; it is often controlled with the proper medication.

After ruling out these medical conditions, you will want to switch to a lower calorie food, and you may even try elevating the food bowl so your cat needs to make some effort to eat. Canned foods can often help reduce weight, as they are formulated with a ratio of protein to carbohydrates that is more appropriate for our carnivorous friends. Schedule and encourage more playtime, increasing the exercise of our otherwise lazy cats.

Remember, too, that if your veterinarian is at a loss to discover the cause of chronic scratching, there are veterinary dermatologists in most major cities who will be able to take the case a bit further. These veterinarians specialize in skin conditions, and I am sure your veterinarian would be happy to refer you in this case.