Care of Rabbits 43 



paper, and lay in a dark place, cover warmly and let 

 alone. If you notice the spasm coming on, place cold 

 water on her head immediately and it will usually 

 prevent the trouble. There is no danger of being bit- 

 ten by a kitten in a fit. 



"A powdery substance through the fur indicates fleas. 

 Saturate with olive oil. This brings the vermin to the 

 surface, where they may be easily killed. If it is a 

 nursing kitten, wash, after using the oil, with white 

 castile, or some mild antiseptic soap and thoroughly 

 dry; otherwise the mother may desert her. If she is not 

 nursing, leave the oil on for a few days. It does not 

 make her look pretty, but she will not mind this and 

 you need not, as it gives her perfect rest from the fleas. 

 Never believe that a flea is dead until you hear it crack 

 or see it in the hot water. Fleas quickly reduce the 

 vitality of a cat; she will die if they are not removed. 

 Cat -fleas will not get on human beings. Cat -fleas are 

 different from dog -fleas." 



RABBITS AND HARES 



Rabbits and hares (Fig. 13) are popular pets and 

 are also used extensively as food. They are easily han- 

 dled and kept. While naturally herbivorous, they will 

 eat a great variety of food. Pens for rabbits should 

 be constructed in dry, sunny situations, and should 

 have good drainage. The walls of the pens should be 

 strongly constructed, so that they will not only prevent 

 the escape of the rabbits, but also protect them 

 against the attacks of dogs from the outside. To keep 



