MISCELLANEOUS 109 



her appearance was a little startling ! The boots were as a 

 preventive to scratching her eyes or ears. I think only a 

 very amicable cat would stand these trying appendages. 



The eyes begin to change colour in kittens when they are 

 about three months old. It is disappointing when the bright 

 blue eyes of White kittens gradually assume a pale greenish 

 hue, and finally about five or six months old, settle down 

 into a decided yellow. In blue kittens we look out anxiously 

 for the orange tinge. In these kittens the blue eyes quickly 

 lose their brightness, and when first the colour appears to be 

 changing it seems almost the same colour as their coats. It 

 is a curious fact that in many cats it is impossible to state 

 whether the eyes are green or yellow. This is especially the 

 case in Blues and Silvers. The health of the animal has 

 a great deal to do with the density of the colour in the eyes. 



The question of hampers versus boxes for our cats when 

 travelling is one that demands attention, more especially 

 during winter. In cold weather I believe in boxes with 

 ventilation on the top. Then comes the question of how to 

 secure a sufficiency of air, as, in spite of our directions, 

 " Live Cat, with Care," the railway officials will heap luggage 

 on the top of our precious cargo. I advise fixing blocks of 

 wood, about two inches in thickness, on the lids, and thus 

 the danger of suffocation would be avoided. 



It may sound foolish, but there is no covering so warm 

 and air-tight as paper, and I have found this cheap com- 

 modity most useful and efficient. If you wish to send a puss 

 on a journey in a hamper, then procure a large sheet of 

 brown paper, place the hamper in the middle, and fold it up 

 like a parcel, leaving a square space on top of the lid round 

 the handle. This is really a better mode of protecting the 

 cat than by any inner linings, which are often scratched 

 down by struggling and protesting animals. If, however, 

 you like to have a double protection, don't select red flannel, 

 or any material of brilliant hue, as I have seen a light- 

 coloured puss issue from a basket partially dyed scarlet. 



We all know what a very trying habit our pussies have of 



