What roach killers (if any) are safe to use around cats?
—Ellen D. Roach killing sprays and baits, when used per label instructions, should not pose a problem for cats. Be sure to remove pet food bowls and toys before application, avoid over-spraying and allow treated areas to dry thoroughly. In the case of baits, take care to place the bait stations in an area that can be reached by the bugs but not your cats. Areas such as secure cabinets behind your dishes, under the sink or at the back of your pantry are typically suitable for placement. Last year many pets died and the cause was traced to wheat gluten in dog food. I also noticed that rice often has gluten. Isn’t rice of great nutritional value for dogs? Is it okay to give them rice and chicken? —Susan S. Wheat gluten and rice protein concentrate were two key feed ingredients involved in the pet food recall crisis of 2007. Specific chemicals were added to them to make them appear to be of higher quality. The added chemicals were harmful, not the gluten itself. For a complete list of reca
