Pet-Themed New Uses for Old Things

Real Simple Magazine

The hidden talents for common household items.


Antonis Achilleos
Antonis Achilleos


Rubber Glove as Pet Hair Remover

Put on a damp rubber dishwashing glove and run your hand over hair-covered upholstery-the hair will cling to the glove, not the sofa. Rinse off the glove in the sink (with the drain catcher in place, of course).

Also See: Ask Real Simple: How Do I Get Rid of Pet Hair?








Erica McCartney; Styling: Linden Elstran
Erica McCartney; Styling: Linden Elstran


Bleach Bottle as Cat Litter Scoop

Cut diagonally across the middle of an empty, clean bottle, toss the base, and use the half with the handle to scoop up soil or cat litter.

Also See: Where Should I Put a Cat-Litter Box?









Erica McCartney; Styling: Linden Elstran
Erica McCartney; Styling: Linden Elstran


Olive Oil as Cat Food Supplement

Prevent hair balls. Add ⅛ to 1¼ teaspoon to your cat's food for easy digestion.

Also See: New Cat Owner Checklist









John Lawton
John Lawton


Key Protectors as Jingle Stoppers

You love your dog and can even tolerate the occasional barking. But you could do without the incessant jinglejangle of his tags. Well, here's a new trick for you: Cover them with rubber key protectors.

Courtesy of reader Jayne Burns of Sebastopol, California

Also See: How to Protect Your Pet's Health





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