HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR HELOISE: My cat is a picky eater. Do you know why cats can be picky? — Sandra B. in Philadelphia

DEAR READER: 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.

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., Arizona

DEAR READER: First look for an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it at least 15 to 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.

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 wasteful.

— Kathy B., Kettle Falls, Wash.

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 DEAR READER: 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.