 Nature's Way
with Alan Hayes
Getting Rid of Pet Smells
In most households' dogs and cats are treated like members of the family. However, no matter how much we see our pet as one of the family, there are times when some of their qualities and not so pleasant habits cause problems. One reader was concerned about this very problem and wrote and said: 'A neighbour's cat has sprayed against the outside wall of our house. What can I do to get rid of the smell?"
Thoroughly wash down cat 'territorial claims' using warm soapy water, then disinfect the area with a solution of 30 drops of lavender essential oil in 10 millilitres of methylated spirits blended with a litre of tepid water. This solution should be used immediately.
The following deterrent spray will also help to stop cats from staking their claims in and around your yard and garden. Grind up a whole bulb of garlic and mix with one teaspoon of cayenne pepper and 1 litre of tepid water. Cover, steep for two hours, then strain through muslin cloth into a suitable watering can or plastic pump-spray bottle. Use whenever necessary.
During this time of the year cold weather can be both drying and damaging to the face and hands, causing them to become rough and scaly. Another reader was looking for an answer to combat such a problem and wanted to know what natural lotion could be used to smooth facial skin.
To make a soothing and rejuvenating skin lotion, warm a cup of clear honey in a saucepan, then add half a cup of milk and two teaspoons of rose water (available from chemists and some health food shops), turning off the heat as you do. Stir the mixture thoroughly, allow to cool, then pour into a sterilised container and store in the refrigerator.
Before using, stir well and pour a little of the lotion into a saucer. Soak cotton-wool balls in the lotion and pat onto the face and neck every night. Do not rinse off until the following morning.
Other questions recently asked by readers were:
1. How do I remove the price stickers from my CD cases without leaving a sticky mark behind?
Wipe adhesive labels gently with methylated spirits and a few drops of eucalyptus oil to remove from plastic, glass and other surfaces. To remove tape from vinyl surfaces without leaving a mark, moisten well with eucalyptus oil, leave for several minutes and lift off. Repeat a few times if necessary, then wipe over with methylated spirits and eucalyptus oil.
2. Can you tell how to remove a stale odour from my children's plastic lunch boxes?
Odours can be removed from plastic food containers by filling them with scrunched-up newspaper balls, and then placing them in the freezer for a few days. To remove the taste and smell from the kids' plastic drink bottles, fill the bottles with a solution of bicarbonate of soda and warm water and allow to soak overnight. Rinse well with clean water.
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