Dear Heloise: My cat is a picky eater! Do you know why cats can be picky?-Sandra B. in Philadelphia
Hi, Sandra: Science to the rescue! Cats ARE finicky eaters, and here's why: Cats instinctively know that they need almost twice as much protein as fat (a ratio of 1 to 0.4), and they can tell how much protein is in the food presented to them. They will hold out for protein-rich foods, regardless of the taste of the food. Even if something is delicious, cats won't eat it if the protein isn't right. (Source: rsos.royalsocietypublishing.org).
Now, if your cat is suddenly refusing to eat, this is a cause for concern. Call your veterinarian to discuss this. There could be something wrong.-Heloise
PET PAL
Dear Readers: Karen W., via email, sent a picture of her sweet and patient Maltipoo, Wally. Wally got to model a baby bonnet when Karen's granddaughters were visiting and playing with dolls! Wally is almost 12. Karen thinks that he looks a tad embarrassed!
To see Wally and our other Pet Pals, visit Heloise.com and click on "Pet of the Week." Do you have a furry, funny fashion plate? Send a picture to [email protected]
HOW GOOD IS SUNSCREEN?
Dear Heloise: I know I should be using sunscreen, but how long is it safe to use, and what SPF should I be using? What is "broad spectrum"?-Andrea H., Flagstaff, Ariz.
Andrea, first look for an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it at least 15-30 minutes before going into the sun. Reapply sunscreen after 30 minutes of your first exposure to the sun. Look for water-resistant sunscreen. "Broad spectrum" means protection from UVA and UVB rays. Most sunscreen products are effective up to two or three years, which usually is longer than the expiration date that's marked on the packaging.
Most physicians will tell you not to rely on sunscreen alone, but to stay out of the sun as much as possible and to wear a hat and protective clothing.-Heloise
CABINETS FOR A CAUSE
Dear Heloise: On TV shows about home makeovers, I'm dismayed to see perfectly good but "dated" kitchen cabinets destroyed by the contractor.
Can't serviceable cabinets be carefully removed and made available to people who can't afford new ones?
Even if they were reused in a shop or storage shed, it would be better than dumping them. It just seems so wasteful.-Kathy B., Kettle Falls, Wash.
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION
Dear Heloise: Please advise your readers to check their headlights and taillights often to make sure all four are working. It frightens me to see so many cars coming toward me with only one headlight.-Marie I., Sidney, Ohio
Readers, make sure your backup camera is working as well, and your mirrors are set so you can use them, especially when leaving a car wash. An attendant may have bumped the mirrors.-Heloise