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 shonld 
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 
