CARE OF THE CAT 85 



not having the temptation of " toms " to waii- 

 der into the world. The gelded cat is quite as 

 good a mouser and is as brave as any other cat, 

 although it is apt to become fat and lazy if not 

 forced to a certain amount of exercise. The 

 operation is usually done at about six months 

 of age, but if done properly can be done on a 

 cat of any age. Female cats are sometimes 

 operated upon, but in these the operation is 

 attended with considerable danger. 



TRANSPORTATION. 



In carrying the cat from one location to 

 another, or in sending it to and from shows, 

 the greatest care must be used to see that the 

 case in which the animal is carried is suffi- 

 ciently strong to resist injury from other boxes 

 or articles of luggage, and that it is provided 

 with proper air-holes to insure perfect and free 

 ventilation. It should be lined, so that the 

 animal will not injure its coat on any rough or 

 jagged surface, or on the heads of nails or 

 screws which have been carelessly left in it. 



The author has a basket, purchased in Paris, 

 7 



