Dear Heloise: This month, we purchased a name-brand flea-and-tick squeeze-on repellent and applied it to the back of our cat's neck. After a few minutes, our cat went into serious convulsions. We called the vet, who told us to come to his office immediately.

They washed the cat and then applied an IV drip and medicine. Evidently, this over-the-counter flea-and-tick repellent was highly toxic to our cat. Our vet said that cats come to his office regularly with seizures and convulsions due to the product.

We were not aware of these dangers. What started as a simple $6 purchase turned into a $150 vet bill and a very sick kitty.

Mike Hoppe, Troy, Ohio

Your pet's flea-and-tick medicine from the vet, so he or she can monitor your pet's health and know what to give it.

Heloise

Dear Readers: If you have pets, you probably have to deal with hair on your clothing or furniture. Try these for removal:

•A hairbrush (one with man-made bristles is best).

•A rubber-soled shoe (like a tennis shoe).

•A clean, synthetic, damp sponge.

•A rubber glove (like one used for washing dishes).

•Tape. Any kind will do – duct tape is great because it has a lot of adhesive to grab the hair.

•A microfiber cloth.

One of these should do the trick!

Heloise