Fleas (P. Serraticeps)

Fleas are not nearly as common on cats as they are credited with being. The flea on the cat is not the same one which affects people, and if transferred to man, does not remain. They can be readily got rid of by sprinkling the cat's basket, or its back, with flowers of sulphur, Persian insect-powder, or powdered tobacco, which can then be well brushed out; or the cat can be sponged over with a five-percent, solution of carbolic acid. Persian insect-powder, however, is the preferable treatment. In using it, place the cat on a large newspaper, and after brushing the powder out, burn the paper and contents, as the flea is not killed - only stunned for the moment.

Fig. 22. - Pulex Serraticeps. (Enlarged 30 diameters.)