Stewart: Go slow to let cats get used to nail trim

Grooming cats

How can I introduce my cat to nail trims? - Yassmina Fandi, New York, N.Y.

The key is to take your time.

"In feline handling, if you do things too quickly, it takes longer and sometimes never gets done," said Jane Brunt, a veterinarian with the American Veterinary Medical Association. Follow these steps:

1. Massage each of your cat's paws gently, moving slowly so you don't startle your pet. Immediately after touching all four paws, give your cat a treat to establish a positive association with the activity.

2. Introduce the clippers once your cat is accustomed to your touch. Press gently on the cat's paw pad to extend one nail, then trim just the white tip above the quick (the flesh-colored V). Reward your cat afterward.

3. Continue to acclimate your cat to the practice gradually. Cut more nails each time, until you can do all four paws in one sitting. If your cat panics, stop immediately and consult your vet or groomer.

Giving dogs enough exercise in cold weather

My dog hates going outside when it's cold. How can I make sure he gets enough exercise? - Sylvia Carpenter, Cedar Falls, Iowa

It's important to give your dog the mental and physical exercise it needs to stay healthy throughout winter, but you don't necessarily have to go outside to do so. Consider these tips:

• Keep your dog's blood pumping with high-energy activities, such as fetch or tug-of-war. (Save the leisurely walks for when the ice thaws.)
• Play a game indoors, such as hide-and-seek, said K.C. Theisen, director of pet-care issues at the Humane Society of the United States. Ask the dog to stay, then hide a toy or treat. Release the dog and say, "Go find it!" As the dog gets the hang of the game, hide treats progressively farther away.
• Enroll in a group class or doggie day care. Your dog will burn off extra energy with canine playmates.

Stay warm when you do step out, making sure you and your dog dress the part. Protective pet clothing (jackets or booties) adds insulation and shields paw pads from harmful deicing chemicals.

Choosing the right skillet for the job

Why are skillets sold in so many different materials? - Lillyanne Tyler Daigle, Washington, D.C.

The different materials accommodate a variety of recipes and kitchen tasks. Cast iron wears well and is virtually nonstick when it's properly seasoned. For everyday cooking, try a stainless-steel pan that gets hot quickly without imparting a metal aftertaste, or a versatile nonstick skillet. And copper cookware isn't just for looks; rely on it to cook food evenly at high temperatures.

CAST IRON: Best for stove-to-oven recipes.

STAINLESS STEEL: Sear fish, meat and veggies on this durable surface.

COPPER: Even browning is easy in this high-heat pan.

NONSTICK: This skillet requires less butter and oil for cooking.

Choosing the right knives

What knives do I need for basic kitchen tasks? - Angela Knott, Audubon, N.J.

Most meal preparation can be accomplished with just three knives: a serrated knife, a chef's knife and a paring knife.

Of these three, the chef's knife is essential; it can handle a large range of cutting jobs. If your culinary endeavors become more advanced, consider purchasing specialty tools, such as a cleaver or a boning knife.

To ensure the best performance, sharpen your knives every three to six months. Invest in a whet-stone, or take the knives to a professional sharpener.

SERRATED KNIFE: The scalloped-edge "teeth" easily slice through soft foods, such as bread and tomatoes.

CHEF'S KNIFE: Chop, mince, and slice vegetables, fruits and herbs with this kitchen workhorse.

PARING KNIFE: A short blade allows for precise trimming, coring and peeling.

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Stewart's magazine and television shows focus on lifestyles. Questions may be addressed to Ask Martha, care of Letters Department, Martha Stewart Living, 601 W. 26th St., Ninth Floor, New York, N.Y. 10001. Questions may also be sent by e-mail to mslletters@marthastewart.com. Letters should include a name, address and daytime telephone number.