CYS
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CORNELL UNIVERSITY.
Ly 2 THE
Roswell fp. Flower Library
THE GIFT OF
ROSWELE 2 FLOWER
FOR THE USE OF
THE N. Y. STATE VETERINARY COLLEGE.
1897
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THE
HOM@OPATHIC
VETERINARY DOCTOR
GIVING THE HISTORY, MEANS OF PREVENTION,
AND SYMPTOMS OF ALL
DISEASES OF THE HORSE, OX, SHEEP, HOG, DoG,
CAT, POULTRY AND BIRDS, ap
S
&
y
AND THE
LIB
2a RARy,
MOST APPROVED METHODS OF TREATMENT
BY
GEORGE H. HAMMERTON, V. 8.
: CHICAGO:
GROSS & DELBRIDGE, PUBLISHERS.
1890.
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COPYRIGHTED 1889
BY GROSS & DELBRIDGE.
oe Oe 6 OC ell
i ee oe
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PUBLISHERS’ PREFACE.
HR
HAT one plan of organism runs through the various forms of animal
\ life is an accepted fact of science. From this fact comes the natural
=} inference that similarity of organism gives rise to similarity in dis-
ease and calls for similarity of medicinal treatment. While rapid advance has
been made in the care and treatment of man, the animals which serve him,
particularly the horse and ox, are still the victims of the cruel and often
fatal notion that they require massive doses of drugs. The most skillful
veterinary practitioners have demonstrated that the horse does not require
much more medicine or much stronger external applications than an adult
man, except only when laxatives or anodynes are required.
The chief defects in previous veterinary books for the masses have been:
(1) Incomplete directions upon how to know what disease the animal is suf-
fering from; (2) Disregard of the rational and humane rule that the dumb
animal is to be treated upon the same principles as man.
The most casual reader will notice the great care taken in the present
volume to so fully describe diseases, before prescribing the treatment, as to
clearly answer that most perplexing of all questions, “What is the matter?”
Such careful description is the more imperative when two or more ailments
cy
are so much alike in symptoms as to be particularly liable to confusion.
The parallel tables of symptoms—which are now so valuable in medical
books upon the human family—are freely used in this work. Observation
being the only means of determining upon the ailment of dumb animals,
no pains have been spared to provide cuts which illustrate to the eye dis-
tinctive symptoms which the patient, from lack of speech, cannot explain to
the ear.
Full directions having been given to decide what disease affects the ani-
mal, the application of the humane rule of treatment above laid down is
consistently observed.
A separate part, boldly set off, is devoted to each animal treated, thus
enabling the reader to confine his study to a specific limit when investigat-
ing the needs of a particular animal, free from the distractions inseparable
from books in which prescriptions are made for several animals in the same
iii.
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iv. PREFACE.
chapter, or on the same page. The repetitions which this plan would other-
wise involve are avoided by suitable cross-references, an arrangement which
has materially reduced the size of the volume, without producing poverty
of information.
The author has acted upon the broad principle that many good men
know more than one man, and has freely drawn upon a long list of the
highest authorities, notably, Lord, Rush, Mayhew, “Stonehenge,” Law,
Harris, and Martin, the works of Lord and Rush being the basis of the
treatment of the horse, ox and sheep.
The publishers confidently claim a more popular style of language than
has been heretofore attained in any similar publication, and a happier adapt-
ability to the wants of the non-professional practitioner.
GROSS & DELBRIDGE,
48 Madison St., Chicago.
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Tasle oF Contents.
24 yy, A
ovr
PART I.
THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES.
Introduction. Chapter I.—Signs of Health and Disease. Chapter IT.—
The Nervous System. Chapter III.—The Digestive System. Chap-
ter 1V.—The Organs of Circulation. Chapter V.—The Respira-
tory Organs. Chapter VI.—The Skin. Chapter VII.—The Urin-
ary and Generative Organs. Chapter VIII.—The Hye and Ear.
Chapter IX.—The Extremities. Chapter X.—General Diseases
and Injuries. Chapter XI.—General Care........... Sew tarsi ', 8-230
PART II.
THE OX AND HUIS DISEASES.
Chapter I.—The Nervous System. Chapter II.—The Digestive Or-
gans. Chapter III.—The Organs of Respiration. Chapter 1V.—
The Skin. Chapter V.—The Urinary and Generative Organs,
Chapter VI.—Miscellaneous Disorders and Injuries.......... 233-290
PART III.
Tue SHEEP AND ITS DISEASES ........ 0.00 ce cee eee eee eens 293-806
PART IV.
Tue Hog anp His DISEASES. ....... cece cece rete eer e tees anes 307-318
PART V.
Tar Dog AND His DISEASES. .......00ccccce esse cccucccacuces 819-848
PART VI
Tue CAT AND ITS DISEASES .. 0.0.0. ce ee eee ee cee cee ees 349-366
PART VII.
PoutTRY AND LARGE BIRDS.........0. 00 cece cee eee eee eenees 367-408
PART VIII.
Cace Brrps AND THEIR DISEASES........0 00.00 e eee ee ee ee eee 409-426
Forms oF REMEDIES AND SiZE OF DOSE..... 6.2.0... eee eee Vi., Vil, vill.
HCG BMC ULAS case he aoe Gaetan aide pecans SIR EAT ES eR Rained aR RR Oe eS 427-428
v.
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List or Remepirs Usep In Tuts Work.
— See se
AGOnI tess wiesivew Gea etext 3x
Antimonium Crud......... 3x
Antimonium Tart.......... 3x
Apis Mel..............66. 3x
Arsenicum Alb............ 3x
Arnica Mont.............-. 2x
Belladonna..............-. 2x
Bryouia Alb.............. 2x
Calcaria Caib............. 3x
Calearia Phos............. 3x
Camphora................ 2x
Cannabis Ind............. 3x
Cantharis.............0008 2x
CO6CUIUS: wx. vaaa daw es 2x
Cimicifuga................ 2x
Cimanoima: sce eer aks 1x
Cin Chon aysd cn i learase ude ieee 1x
Colehicums,.asas24 tac0c 80s 2x
Colocynth..............4. 2x
Digitalis... secvestes cee 2x
Dulcaamara .............. 2x
Euphrasia................ 2x
Ferrum Sulph............. 3x
Gelsemiumn .............2. 1x
Glonoine..............26- 3x
Graphites......... 0.00. eee 3x
Hamamelis........-....04- 1x
Hellebore ................ 2x
Hepar Sulph........ ..... 3x
Hydrastis .............-.. 2x
SPECIAL LIST.
Chloral Hydrate,
Arnica Tincture,
Calendula Tincture,
Hamamelis Extract.
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Hyosyamus............06- 2x dil.
slODING test eete seus cie eee 8x dil.
Tenatias cesses esac ees 2x dil.
A pOGa e.g ira- eh secre es eens ese 8x dil.
Kali Bich................. 3x trit.
Kali. Brot: ces ce0cc0e «ass 38x trit.
Kreosotum.............--. 8x dil.
Lycopodinm .............. 3x trit.
Murcurius Cor............ 3x trit.
Murcurius Jod............. 3x trit.
Murcurius Vivus..... ..... 3x° trit.
Nux Vomica.............. 3x dil.
Opittitiec caw kea eta ee 3x dil.
Phosphorus............... 8x dil.
Phos. Acid ............... 3x dil.
Phytolacca ............... 2x dil.
PLUG Ws se cbs ese ak Maka e 3x trit.
Podophyllin .............. 3x trit.
Rhus! Tse. cca eed canes 2x dil.
POAT Es sh on tual eh easier saris cane 2x dil.
Sila oe, Gore a eed Sate 8x trit.
Spire lade ds ve lculw eae k a’ 38x dil.
SPONPla. ave cesses te ew awe. 3x trit.
Stramoniuin.............. 3x trit.
Btryehtia ye: wiseein gee es 3x trit.
Sulphur. 2 ccscscd gga ad eas 2x trit.
Tart. Emet....... eee 3x trit.
DNR) a:g Me ae tale k ne Were 1x dil.
Urtica Urens.............. 2x dil.
Veratrum Vir............. 2x dil.
S1zzE oF Doss.
ees
GV“ FS
For a Horse full-grown, 3 times the dose for a Man.
o 3 years old, 2 « “ ‘“
13 2 “ 14 6 “ oo
ee 1 year old, uaual dose for a Man.
“ 6 months old, 2 « “
Tor an Ass full-grown, 2 to 3 times the dose for a Man.
7 1 year old, usual dose for a Man.
i 6 months old, 2 “ is
For a Mule, same as for an Ass.
For an Ox full-grown, 3 to 4 times the dose for a Man.
7 lyear old,lto2 « ae «
ce 6 months old, usual dose for a Man.
For a Sheep full-grown, the dose for a Man.
is 6 months old, 4 « es
“sc 3 “ 4 i T4 74
For a Goat, rather more than for a Sheep.
For a Hog full-grown, the dose for a Man.
ee 6 months old, 2 “ me
46 3 6c 4 6c 6
For a Dog full-grown, the dose for a man, less for small breeds.
s 6 months old, $ dose for a Man.
66 3 “ TL & 6G
3
Doses for Cats, Poultry and Birds are given with the treatment.
6
iy
uC)
Forms or REMEDIES.
TincTurEs.—A tincture is an extract obtained by subjecting a drug to
the action of strong or dilute alcohol, or whisky, and is a fluid in form.
Ditutions.—A dilution is made of a given part of a tincture to stated
parts of alcohol or water. The jirst dilution, for example, is composed of
. Vil.
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vili. FORMS OF REMEDIES.
one part of the tincture to ten of alcohol or water; the second, of one part
to one hundred, etc. Dilutions and triturations are both thus compounded
on the decimal scale, and in this form are found at the homceopathic phar-
macies, being by the latter marked 1x, 2x, 8x, ete. The subjoined illustra-
tions will be of service in using medicines:
1st dilution (1x), 1 part of tincture to 10 of alcohol or water.
2d « (2x), 1* (a3 100 “ “
8d «= (8x), 1 * “ 1,000 “ “
4th « (4x),1 “ “ 10,000 “ “
Etc., etc., etc.
It will be seen that there is a wide difference between one dilution and
another in the amount of the drug involved. Though in some cases it may
make no material difference in the effect whether the first or second is used,
in others it is absolutely essential to give that which is recommended, par-
ticularly in using very powerful or very poisonous drugs, which are to be
administered in the high dilutions.
TrituRATIONS.—A trituration contains a given part of the drug ground
with stated parts of sugar-of-milk, being oviously in the form of a powder.
the first trituration contains one part of the drug to ten of sugar-of-milk;
the second, one part to one hundred, etc. The characters “1x,” “2x,” atc.,
are used to distinguish them. Observe the same cautions about using the
particular trituration prescribed as were given above for Dilutions.
Dezcoctions anp Inrusitons.—A decoction is made by boiling the med-
icinal substance in water; an infusion, by pouring boiling water upon it and
allowing it to cool.
So_utions.—These are made by dissolving the medicinal substance in
some liquid, as alcohol or water. A “saturated solution” is alcohol contain-
ing as much of a substance as it will hold in solution.
Lorions on Wasuxs.—These are mixtures of medicinal agents and
water, for local use. Formulas are given on page 427.
Crrates.—A cerate is a compound of a drug with oil or oily sub-
stances, and formulas for the same, with the uses, are given on page 427.
OrntuENntTs.—These are similar to cerates, and their formulas are given
on pages 427 and 428.
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fore
THE HORSE AND HIS DISEASES.
INTRODUCTION.
THE PREHISTORIC HORSE.
FOSSIL bones of the horse have been found in both hemispheres
together with those of other animals which indicate an antiquity as
great as any fossil quadruped. The relics found in Europe in the
bone caves and drift deposits consist of innumerable skeletons as well
as representations by drawing and carving on reindeer horn, bone and ivory,
executed by their contemporary man countless ages before history began.
Ecker says that the European horse of the fourth epoch probably gave birth
to the small stunted breed with the large head, rounded forehead and short
neck, which is found in fossil remains at Solutre and is still represented by
the wild horses of the Rhone delta and the steppes of Russia; but he adds
that this primitive breed was almost entirely supplanted by an Asiatic breed
larger and more robust, and that our domestic horse is the result of a mixture
of the two. The problem of the origin of the horse can no more be solved
than that of man; unless we assume the unity of species, and that the Great
Architect created each kind in a specific mould at the beginning, subject to
the law of variation, limited by the power of reproduction each of its kind,
that man, animals and plants had attained a degree of perfection in
variety at some period or periods in the remote past, and that the process is
now going on, slowly recovering from the great inundation which over-
whelmed the earth during the glacial epoch.
3
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4 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
THE HORSE IN HISTORY.
Traces of the horse have been found in nearly all ages and all countries
since the flood, the period at which history seems to have dawned. From
time to time as the exigencies have demanded varieties of the horse have
been produced suitable for the purposes required of them. In following the
march of civilization from the very first, the finer breeds appear to have
been maintained hy the introduction of the Arab stock. Egypt, the most
ancient of civilized monarchies that have left monuments to tell their history.
as we gather from Rawlinson’s “Ancient Egypt,” introduced horses, prok-
ably from Arabia, under the eighteenth dynasty, and they seem not to
have been known in the earlier times. They were regarded as too noble
and perhaps too valuable for draught and agricultural purposes, like the ass
and the ox, but were commonly either ridden or employed to draw curricles
and chariots, chiefly by men of the upper classes. Great numbers were re-
quired for the chariots and cavalry.
considerable pressure, and give warm injections. Immediate relief will,
f dilute vinegar and a thimbleful of pow-
“LALULENT COLIC,
often follow a drench of a pint o
dered chalk, well shaken and given quickly before it wastes by fermenta-
tion. In other respects, observe the directions above on the general care
in spasmodic colic.
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68 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS.—ENTERITIS.
Inflammation of the muscular coat of the intestines is caused by expos-
ure to cold and wet; excessive exercise, with sudden chill; drinking cold
water when heated; over-feeding; want of work; bad treatment or neglect
of colic; strong purgatives; continued constipation; rupture in the intestines,
Symptoms.—These are similar to those of colic, from which they
should be studiously distinguished. (See the table of symptoms under
Colic.) The pain is continuous, not paroxysmal; pulse hard and small,
ranging from 60 to 100, and in extreme cases imperceptible or thready;
mouth hot, and usually dry; nostrils expanded, red and hot; bowels very
much bound; urine stopped; abdomen tender and tucked up; extremities
cold; copious sweats, becoming cold and sour-smelling in latter stages;
breathing quick and short; the horse paws; lies down and rises often;
strikes his belly; looks at his flanks as if in great pain; as the pain increases,
the horse drops, rolls, and lies on his back; these symptoms, after some
hours, may be followed by a subsidence of pain, the body being still covered
with a cold, clammy sweat; the eye becomes lusterless; the lips hang; the
mouth is very cold; tremor
occurs in the muscies, par-
ticularly in the extremities.
These symptoms indicate
an inflammation of the outer
GENERAL SIGN OF ABDOMIN\L PReEssSURE tO Derecr ENTERITIS,
IkRITATION,
muscular coat. An inflamed inner coat will be marked, in addition to most
of the above, by warm ears and extremities; discharge of liquid, frothy
dung, sometimes bloody; feebler and quicker pulse; the taking of breath is
short, and its expulsion checked and then completed with a groan. In
extreme cases the horse totters, knocks his head on various objects, falls,
and with a few struggles dies.
TrEATMENT.—Treatment should be given as soon as possible, and
since the disease is most likely dependent upon some derangement of the
mucous surface and the cellular tissue under it, it should not be entirely
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THE HORSE—THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 69
local, but general as well. Aconite is by far the best remedy, and if
administered in the early stages, will usually effect a cure. It should be
continued as long as the pulse remains hard, and the pain severe. After
giving several doses fifteen minutes apart, it should be administered every
half-hour, or in alternation with another remedy if the pulse continues
hard and quick. If the constipation is inflexible, give nux vomica, fol-
lowed in fifteen minutes by aconite, and continuing the alternation in this
manner. Give belladonna, not zz the first stages, as a remedy interme-
diate between aconite and arsenicum, when the pulse becomes feeble or
thread-like; the eye red and wild-looking; the animal delirious; prostra-
tion; mouth and body yet warm; belly swollen apd tender; grext pain.
Arsenicum should be given when the inflammation has resulted from cold,
drink taken when the body is warm, or from irregularity of feeding; also,
if there be rapid prostration, restlessness, cold and clammy sweats, hur-
ried and weak puise. Colocynth is desirable, perhaps in alternation with
aconite, when the large intestines are mainly affected, and there is wind in
the belly, with ineffectual attempts to pass dung. If there be great thirst,
tender belly, prostration, ;
shivering, perspiration,
watery, offensive dung,
passed with straining, some-
times slimy and bloody, mer-
curius corrosivus will be
found an efficient remedy.
Apply tothe abdomen cloths
wrung out of water as hot
as the horse will bear, weth-
out scalding or blistering.
Warm injections of starch
will be of assistance. Ap- AppPLIcATION or Hor CLorus.
ply to the legs mustard to
restore circulation. Never resort to bleeding. Give gruel freely. An
antidote must be given in cases resulting from poisoning. Since the
nature of the poison cannot aiways be known, it is well to use Cam-
phor as the best general antidote in enteritis. Remember, however,
that emetics are not to be given to the horse. Give mild food until all
irritation has subsided.
DIARRH@A.—SCOURING.
This is a looseness of the bowels caused by unwholesome food, min--
eral or brackish water, strong cathartics, atmospheric agencies, derange-
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70 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
ment of the blood, congested lining membrane of the intestines, nervous
excitement, worms, derangement of some organ, as the stomach or liver,
influenza or other disease.
Symptoms.—Frequent passages of dreggy or watery dung, without.
the blood which is common in dysentery, with or without griping; some-
times straining and discharge of wind; pawing, rolling and looking at the
flank; discharges occasionally black and very offensive, but usually not
offensive, and containing small pieces of hay; appetite lessened or lost;
pulse quick, weak and irregular, and breathing hurried, though neither is:
much affected in early stages; straining increases with the advance of the
disease, with more wind passing. In severe cases there will be offensive
breath, cold skin and extremities, and rapid decline of flesh and strength.
TREATMENT.— When diarrhea results from taking cold, or when
congestion of the mucous membrane is supposed to exist, aconite will allay:
the inflammation. This remedy may be given in connection with mercu-
rius if the discharges are slimy and offensive, and the breath is foul. Some-
times the disorder follows constipation, and the discharges will then first:
be composed of dry, hard balls, then loose, and thus alternating. In such
a condition nux vomica will be invaluable. In painless diarrhcea, with.
watery discharges, cold skin and shivering, give half-teaspoonful doses ot
tincture of camphor every hour until relief is afforded. Give arsenicum or
phosphoric acid for watery, slimy, greenish or brownish diarrhea, with or
without griping pains; also when the animal is weak, thin, with poor or no-
appetite; and for diarrhea in fevers of a typhoid nature. Cinchona is very
useful in cases induced by hot weather, and not of an inflammatory char-
acter; for chronic cases, with painless discharges, loss of flesh, appetite and
strength; for intermittent cases, and as a tonic after the acute symptoms
have disappeared. Give veratrum album when the discharges are alto-
gether watery and involuntary, the pulse collapsed or almost imperceptible,
the nose, mouth and ears cold, parts of the body moistened with cold
sweat, the expression haggard; thirst, and occasional griping pains; admin-
ister it every quarter of an hour at first and increase the intervals as the
diarrhcea declines. Use mercurius corrosivus every half-hour when the
dung is mixed with blood, or is merely mucus with wind and straining.
If there is much pain, administer colocynth. Large draughts of linseed or
olive oil will clear the bowels of any irritating substance, and they should
be followed by starchy and mucilaginous drinks, Astringents and opiates
should be given with caution, and never when there are any irritating sub-
stances in the bowels. Give three or four times a day three table-spoonfuls
of flour paste in a quart of water, or more water if the horse is thirsty,
especially if the disorder has resulted from an overdose of physic; ciothe
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TILE HORSE—THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 71
the body and legs warmly; omit all exercise for two or three days, and
when the appetite returns feed boiled oats or barley.
DYSENTERY.—BLOODY FLUX. °
Inflammation of the membrane lining the large intestines occasions
an unusual secretion of mucus, usually tinged with blood, attended with
straining, and this is called dysentery, or bloody flux. A fever of alow
typhoid nature may cause it, or extreme heat, or indeed anything that de-
presses the nervous system may be the cause, as well as exposure to cold
and wet, sudden chill, diseases of the skin and breathing organs, bad, exces-
sive, or insufficient food, low, marshy grazing, oppressive, dry, sultry
weather long continued, and it may result from diarrhea. It is not com-
mon among horses, except in the chronic form.
Symptoms.
These are in some respects like those in diarrhea, but it
will be observed that the disease under question is marked by a mixture of
blood and mucus in the dung; pulse small and quick; great thirst; quick-
ened breathing; at first, shivering and fever-indications; appetite gone;
slight griping; frequent straining; pain in belly; end of rectum some-
times protrudes in straining; loss of spirits. When the discharges are oc-
casional, following marked constipation, and consist of a small hard ball or
two, with wind and much straining, the disease is true dysentery; when
they are dreggy, it is called diarrhaea, the discharge not being attended
with straining.
TREATMENT.—Dysentery is often the result of clogging or impaction
of the bowels, giving rise to inflammation, and in such cases this cause is
to be removed by giving large draughts of olive or linseed oil, together
with full injections of starch-water. When this has been effected, and the
disorder is still accompanied with severe straining, protrusion of the rectum,
discharges of blood, or of slimy, bloody mucus, with hardened dung, or
with discharges nearly black and mixed with tough lymph, and frequent
and straining attempts to pass urine, mercurius corrosivus will be invalu-
able. Give nux vomica if the dysentery is attended with constipation at
times, with frequent passage of one or two hard balls, straining and un-
successful efforts to pass urine and wind. Phosphorie acid is very service-
able for dysenteric diarrhea, with fevers of a typhoid character. Give
arsenicum if the dung is liquid, passed nearly involuntarily, bloody, offen-
sive, and greenish, or nearly black; rumbling.and windy bowels; loss of
appetite, strength and flesh; skin and extremities cold; straining and pas-
sages of wind; for debility resulting from bleeding, purging, and such dis-
eases as typhoid fever. As food give mashes of bran, crushed wheat or
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12 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
barley, or of roots. Boiled linseed, starch-water or barley-water should
be mixed with the drink to allay pain and irritation.
CONSTIPATION.—COSTIVENESS.
This is a stoppage of the bowels, usually affecting the rectum. It is,
properly speaking, a symptom of some disorder, but as its neglect may
lead to inflammation of the bowels, it is here separately treated. It is
caused, in addition to different specific disorders, by old age, inability to
pass the dung which is in the rectum at birth, indigestible food, such as old,
rough grass which clogs the rectum, deficiency of water, insufficient exer-
cise, imperfect mastication, lack of digestive fluids, as the saliva and bile.
Symptoms.—Impaired appetite, indications of pain in the abdomen,
straining efforts to empty the bowels, hardened dung, restlessness and
irritability.
TrREATMENT.—Nux vomica and sulphur will almost always afford re-
lief, a dose of the former being given at night and one of the latter in the
morning. Give regular exercise, boiled food, less oats for a while, and in-
jections of warm soap-suds. Lack-raking is dangerous. The bowels are
sometimes obstructed by the lower part of the small intestine slipping
down into the upper end of the larger one (invagination), and in such a
case powerful cathartics are extremely dangerous, and indeed should never
be used. If free injections will not relieve this latter condition, the abdo-
men may be opened by skillful hands, though it is a hazardous operation.
Relief is sometimes afforded by jumping from a bank about two feet high.
Manipulating, by the hand in the rectum, has produced good results.
INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH.—GASTRITIS.
This is of two kinds, which, for the sake of convenience, we will call
spectal and general. The distinction should be carefully made, as the
treatment of the one differs from that of the other.
THE SPECIAL FORM.
This is caused by some vegetable or mineral poison or animal irritant
taken into the stomach, especially by too much aloes, oil of turpentine, cor-
rosive sublimate, arsenic, lead, copper, antimony, ammonia, cantharides,
oxalic, nitric and sulphuric acids.
Symptoms.—Quick pulse (80 per minute), steady, small, perhaps im-
‘perceptible; thirst usually great; partial sweats; cold extremities; saliva
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THE HORSE—THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 73
‘flows from the mouth; indications of dysentery, such as straining and
‘passage of bloody mucus; weakness; perhaps paralysis; increasing pain in
later stages; in cases of vegetable poisoning, stupor and great drowsiness,
enlarged pupils, paralysis, snoring, breathing; in mineral poisoning and
-animalirritants, nausea, pains
in belly, horse looks at his
left flank, paws and rolls.
In all extreme cases the
horse dashes against the
walls, or throws himself |/||
upon the ground, becoming |
delirious, and dies.
ise}
In all
-cases the poison must be re-
moved, or neutralized by
TREATMENT.
antidotes. For metallic poi-
sons, as arsenic, corrosive
Symptom or ACUTE GASTRITIS.
‘sublimate, verdigris, lead,
copper, etc., give white of egg in water, soap-suds, or sugar and water,
adding iron-rust for arsenic; for lead, give Glauber’s or Epsom salts. For
acids, as sulphuric, prussic, nitric, ete., give soda, chalk and water, am-
monia, or magnesia. For alkalies, such as ammonia, salt of tartar, etc.,
give lemon juice and other acids. For any case, give linseed-tea, starch-
water, or arrowroot., Injections are serviceable. Generally give mild
_ food, and in small quantities, during treatment and some time thereafter.
THE GENERAL FORM.
This type is caused by a subtle poison in the air, acting on the brain
- of such animals as are predisposed to disease by general debilitating agen-
cies, and especially by impure air from improper ventilation, the latter be-
‘ing an independent cause; by the coating process attended with some chill
or nerve-disorder or fever. All of these operate on the nerves of the
stomach and neighboring organs, producing inflammation.
Symptoms.—Pulse sixty to eighty per minute, small and weak, though
- soft and full at the beginning; foul and slimy tongue; saliva increased;
-appetite wholly lost from the commencement; limbs swollen and hot, or
- cold and not swollen; great weakness, the horse walking with legs wide
apart, or dragging them; membrane of the mouth deep red, yellow, or of
-a brick-dust shade; eyes nearly closed, water penetrating the lids; some-
- times a mucous pus instead of tears; the coat may be dry and loose, com-
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74 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
ing off easily when touched, and standing up when eruptions occur, which:
is not unfrequently the case; no sore throat and no discharge yet, as im:
eatarrhal troubles. The disease advancing, cough or sore throat may be
added, or the lungs become disordered, with other complications; dung
clay-colored or black, passed in small balls covered with mucus, or it may
pass in small quantities, frequently soft and slimy; horse usually stands
stupid and resting his head on the manger, indicating headache; if he lies
down, he stretches out, occasionally turning the mouth, with curled lip,,
toward the stomach, giving evidence of nausea; sometimes marked rest-
lessness, pawing, and walking about; the point and sides of the tongue:
very red, the middle being a dirty white; mucus-glands on each side
much enlarged; sometimes the lining of the cheeks and lips is of a saf-
fron color, with scarlet blotches on the gums, and red streaks on the mem-
brane of the nose, though without sore throat; in other cases, ulceration of
the inside of the lips and the gums, with a craving for lime, the horse lick-
ing whitewash if it is in reach; teeth covered with yellow tartar, which
disappears when the stomach-disorder’ passes off; the animal drinks water -
freely, and will take gruel; sometimes grinding of teeth; heart often
affected, its beats being loud and irregular; in very bad cases, inflammation -
of the lymphatics on the legs and chest. In either form, inflammation of
the stomach is characterized by much pain,
TREATMENT.—When the symptoms are loss of appetite and spirits, .
with rapid loss of strength, tongue red at its sides, with eruptions, mouth.
slimy, its lining membrane yellow, or with scarlet blotches, dung hard.
and slimy, or soft, passing frequently only a little at a time, covered with.
mucus, with or without indications of pain and restlessness, fever of a
weak type, the pulse being quick and small, no abnormal sound in the:
thorax, give nux vomica. In cases with greatly increased saliva, offen-
sive breath, and ulceration or congestion of the gums, give mercurius cor--
rosivus. If the fever become typhoid, breath, dung, and secretions offen-.
sive, pulse imperceptible, and legs dropsical, give arsenicum every two.
hours. Give only gruel and mucilaginous drinks for the diet and drink. .
INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER.
Inflammation of the liver, a disease that is not frequent in horses, ,
results from excess of food, especially of that which is very stimulating;.
want of exercise; hot stables; exposure to sudden changes of temperature;
or may result from other diseases, as influenza and inflammation of the:
lungs; a heavy fall on the side may cause it; as also miasmatic influences.
and ague. It is of two kinds, acufe (which seldom occurs) and chronic.
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THE HORSE—THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. vis)
Symptoms.—In the chronic form the symptoms are dullness; listless-
ness; fever; pulse hard, frequent, irregular both in number and character,
occasionally slow, sometimes fuller than usual; breathing almost wholly in:
the abdomen; mucous membrane joining the eyelid to the ball tinged
with yellow; appetite bad; coat staring; mouth foul; tongue furred and:
dirty; dung hard, lumpy, light-colored, sometimes white or clayey, offen-
sive and coated with mucus; pain in right shoulder, with lameness in right
leg; sometimes dropsy or diarrhea; itchy skin; mucous membrane in gen-
eral yellowish; breathing usually little affected, though fits of blowing:
occur, with hollow cough; glands about the throat sometimes enlarged ;,
rapid decline of condition; occasionally dropsy of the belly; congestion.
may be present, gradually continuing, with no marked change in general.
health of the horse, until the liver bursts and causes death; inflammation:
may set in and cause swelling in the region of the liver, with quick, hard,.
and small pulse.
In acu¢e inflammation the horse perhaps coughs occasionally; hangs.
the head; drooping eyes; loathing of food; internal pain, not severe;
passages of dung small and dark; urine scanty; mouth hot; fever; later,
mucous membrane of the eyes, nose, lips and mouth yellowish; urine
yellow; pulse strong, quick and bounding; perhaps the horse staggers.
TREATMENT.—Give aconite for high fever; hot skin; thirst; furred.
tongue; restlessness; tenderness in the region of the liver, detected by the
touch. In acute cases, give ten drops every one or two hours until the
symptoms abate. If there be yellow coating of the tongue, yellowish
membranes of the eyes, knotty and clayey dung, give mercurius, alone or
in combination with podophyllin. Nux vomica is suitable for great ten-
_derness in the region of the liver; thirst; costiveness; high-colored urine.
This may be given in alternation with mercurius. Ifthe disease progresses.
and is attended with offensive, blackish diarrhaea, weak, small and irregular
pulse, cold extremities and great weakness, give arsenicum; this remedy is.
also efficacious when, in chronic inflammation of the liver, that organ has
become enlarged, and the urine is scanty, and is adapted to dropsy of the
belly, and to cases which arise from other disorders. The diet should in
all cases be mild and not stimulating, such in general as is given for inflam-
mation of the bowels. Tonics may be administered to sustain the strength,
as, taraxacum, cinchona and colombo, during the above treatment.
PERITONITIS.
This is an inflammation of the lining of the abdomen and of the
membrane which covers the outside of the bowels. From inflammation of
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‘16 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
the bowels it is distinguished by greater tenderness in the dack part of the
belly, and greater swelling; while it is unlike colic in that its pain is con-
-stant and is attended with acute fever. It is caused by wounds and injuries
‘to the abdomen; exposure to cold; over-exertion, as in running and leaping;
‘castration, a cold setting in afterward. It is very dangerous.
Sym ptoms.—Shivering, followed by fever and inactivity or uneasiness;
Joss of appetite; thirst; breathing short, and mainly confined to the chest;
pulse hard, quick or wiry at first, becoming thready later; the disease grow-
ang worse, the horse paws and looks at his side; stands with legs under his
body, with haunches against
HIRI =-N something, or crouches;
aN motion causes more pain;
abdomen tender, and in first
stages tucked up, but after-
ward grows swollen or con-
tains wind; nostrils wide;
anxious look; the animal
does not lie down and arise
often, as in colic; urine
scanty and high-colored. In
‘ later stages pulse very weak ;
FREQUENT POSITION DURING PERITONITIS ani Orner cold, clammy sweats; mouth
oer ae and extremities cold; tremb-
ling of muscles; the horse stands moodily in one position, finally dropping
and dying. Peritonitis may pass from the acute to the chronic form, and
the latter may terminate in dropsy.
TREATMENT.—During the inflammatory stage give aconite if there
is high fever; and if there is a bloody discharge from the bladder, alter-
nate it with cantharis. If there be great swelling and tenderness of the
belly, with pain and quick, short breath, give belladonna. If the disease
progresses, and is marked Ly great loss of strength and a dropsical condi-
tion, arsenicum will be of value, and five-drop doses of Fowler’s Solution
will be a suitable form for its administration. In cases attended with great
swelling of the sheath, scanty urine, painful and hurried breathing, bryonia
will be of value. Rub dry mustard on the abdomen and apply large cloths
wrung out in hot water to the belly, holding them in place with blankets
and girths, changing them every hour in extreme cases. All treat-
ment should be applied at the earliest stage possible. During recov-
ery be very careful about the diet, giving first linseed tea and well-
boiled gruels of oat, barley or rye meal, following gradually with soft,
warm mashes before the ordinary food is allowed.
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THE HORSE—THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. wird
PILES.
Piles are small tumors in the muscles forming the circumference of the
anus, caused by swelling and enlargement of the veins, and are the result
of constipation, unwise use of cathartics, heating food, insufficient werk, and
an obstruction of circulation which often arises from derangement of the liver.
Symptoms.—Small, soft tumors at the outer extremity of the rectum,
sometimes bleeding in efforts to pass dung; straining; occasionally protru-
sion of the outer end of the rectum; sometimes constipation; symptoms of
liver derangement; perhaps matter in the rectum.
TREATMENT.—The bowels should be kept free, though not loose, and
if there is a relaxed, paralytic condition of the rectum, accompanied by
obstinate constipation, nux vomica wil] be found valuable, a dose being
given night and morning. If the bowel protrudes, give podophyllin in
small doses. Should there be much bleeding or inflammation, apply extract
of hamamelis and inject a solution of equal parts of the same and water
into the bowel. If the bowel protrudes and is swollen and very much
inflamed, apply hot fomentations, and carefully return it after oiling well.
An excellent application will be found in the ointment here given:
Stramonium ointment, 3 ounces,
Pulverized nut-galls, 1 drachm.
Morphia sulphate, IO grains.
Mix. Apply warm, passing some into the bowel.
CONCRETIONS.
These are balls, usually in the large intestine, composed wholly of im-
perfectly digested food mixed with mucous matter; or made by some hard
substance which has been swallowed and acts as a nucleus in the stomach
for the collection of undigested food. They vary much in size and obstruct:
the bowels.
Svmptoms.—Usually no inconvenience is shown, the balls passing out:
when small; when they become large, great constipation.
TREATMENT.—If the presence of the balls is certainly known when
they are small, a purge will remove them. Usually, however, this 1s not
known until the balls have become so large as to stop the bowels. In this.
case treatment is of little avail, and the use of purgatives is very dangerous.
Tnjections of soap and warm water may assist in the removal, as will also
drenches of olive or linseed oil. To allay the pain, treat as directed for the:
spasmodic form of Colic, page 67,
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718 HE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
RUPTURE.
This is a protrusion of a portion of some part of the intestine, or of the
membrane attached to the stomach and lying next to the front part of the
intestines, through a natural or artificial opening into some cavity. It is
caused by drawing heavy loads, kicking, rearing, running, straining induced
by colic, injuries resulting from a blow or kick, or hereditary tendency.
SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT.—When a soft tumor is found at the
navel, consisting of a sac that is elastic or inelastic, according as it contains
respectively intestine or the membrane mentioned above, bad effects seldom
result, the horse recovering as he grows older. Should this increase in size,
and be attended with colic, a surgical operation is required at the hands of
askillful practitioner. If there be a fluctuating tumor or sac in the belly,
containing a portion of intestine, which can generally be pushed back into
the abdomen, « cure may often be effected by so pushing back the intestine
and applying a bandage carefully and securely, zf this be done at first.
Since this kind of rupture seldom does harm, excepting as it disfigures the
horse, it is usually best to omit an operation. Sometimes, when the treat-
ment just named will not effect a cure, the intestine may be pushed up, and
a strong band put around the neck of the sac which contained it, and left
thus until it drops off, which will be in three or four weeks; or the band
may be replaced with another after the first week. In either case, wooden
clamps must be tightly placed over the skin forming the sac. If it
be found that the aperture through which the protrusion has taken place
has contracted so that the intestine cannot be pushed back, a skillful practi-
tioner may perform an operation.
When the rupture is in the groin, the symptoms will be alternate as-
cent and descent of the testicle on the side affected, with a final ascent; cold
sweats; constant colic, the horse often looking at the flank; perhaps attempts
to vomit. In this case, the hand may be passed up the rectum and the in-
testine liberated from its confinement, though this is better done by a sur-
geon. When the intestine descends into the sac containing the testicles, it
will disappear during rest, but reappear with exercise. Then the tumor
grows larger gradually, and the aperture closes in, preventing the ascent of
the intestine; there are dullness and indisposition to move; loathing of food;
colic; constipation; rumbling of wind; in extreme cases, gangrene; cold
sweats;shivering, and death. This form of rupture may not injure a horse’s
usefulness, and should be treated only by successful practitioners, if at all.
Owing to the liability to « constriction” and consequent inflammation
and even gangrene, attention should be givem to any case of rupture as soon
as it is known to exist or is suspected.
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THE HORSE—THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 79
INTESTINAL WORMS.
Several species of worms are found in the intestines of the horse, amons
which may be named (1) the long white worm, from six to twelve inches
Jong, resembling the common earth-worm; (2) the slender one, from two to
four inches long; (3) the small, active, needle-like worm, found in great
numbers in the large intestines and rectum, causing great irritation, and be-
ang darker than those named above; (4) the tape-worm, white and jointed
into regular sections; (5) the long threadworm. Two views are held re-
‘garding the cause of worms. One is that they are injurious in themselves
and wholly foreign to the animal’s
constitution. The other is that they
‘are due to a derangement of the mu-
cous membrane and its secretions,
favorable to the growth of their
XY =
VIA SSaNhi
=
be. WARS TS
RuBBING THE NOSE DURING THE PickING THE HariR WHEN WORMS ARE
PRESENCE OF WORMS. PRESENT.
germs. In support of the latter view it has been remarked that worms are
seldom found in healthy horses, or at least not in large numbers, while in
horses delicate or poorly f.d they exist in great numbers.
Symptoms.—Appetite at one time poor or wholly lost; at another vora-
cious; low spirits; coat loses its gloss; the horse is hide-bound, licks the wall
and cats dirt; dry, yellow or white matter about the anus, with itching, caus-
ing the animal to rub his tail or switch it about; dung often covered with
mucus; worms in the dung are the unmistakable symptom.
TREATMENT.—Give salt in the food, and liquor arsenicalis, thirty drops
three times a day. Or give one-fifth of a grain of arsenic night and morn-
ing in a little bran-mash; if it fails to effect a cure after two or three weeks,
give five grains of sulphate of iron night and morning. In place of either
of these courses, it may be well to give two powdered Croton beans in a
handful of bran-mash, and a half-pint of linseed oil every morning. This
has often been effectual, The Croton beans are also highly recommended
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80 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
for expelling the worms, previous to the administration of the arsenic or
sulphate of iron. For tape-worm, if its presence is known, felix mas has-
been deemed the best remedy, a half ounce of the decoction of the male fern.
being given early in the morning and late at night.
BOTS.
These are often found in large numbers in the horse’s stomach, to the coat.
of which they attach themselves firmly by two strong hooks. They appear to
feed on the mucus of the stomach. A gadfly deposits eggs on some part of”
the body, which after a while produce itching, when the horse gnaws at
them and so swallows them; or they may fall from the hair of the throat
and breast into the feed. At this stage the larve are very small, but in the
stomach grow to the size of a
small grub, when they let go, and,
passing away in the dung, turn to
a chrysalis, and finally to the gad-
fly. It is a disputed question
whether bots do injury to the horse
when they remain upon the coat
of the stomach, some even claim-
ing that they are in these cases a
benefit. If however they pass
into the intestines and attack the
sensitive tissues, their ravages are
very alarming, producing colicky
pains and other evidences of in- BORE TERE STOMACH
testinal disorder. They may certainly be nearly if not quite harmless in a
horse in ordinary health.
Symptoms.—The symptoms which call for treatment are agony of the
horse, with inclinations to violent colicky attacks; general symptoms of
indigestion or colic.
TREATMENT.—Give nux vomica for the colicky pains and ensuing indi-
gestion. The appearance of the bots in the dung, though an unmistakable
evidence of their presence in the horse, does not call for treatment; indeed,
this is the best evidence that none is needed and that they are passing off in.
a natural way. When there is great agony, with colic-attacks, pour down
the horse’s throat a half-gallon or more of warm milk, or, still better, fresh.
warm blood. This is rich food and the bots leave the tissues to feed upon
it. As soon as the agony is relieved, give a pint or even a quart of linseed
or olive oil, which will bring away the liquid and the bots. It is uscless to:
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THE HORSE—-THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 81
try to kill the matured bots in the stomach, as they wili resist the most
“heroic”? remedies. Means of prevention are the shaving off of the long
hairs on the fore legs, throat, breast, or other parts where the eggs are de-
posited so as to find their way to the mouth. Such parts may also be oiled.
The proper use of cloths and branches fastened on these parts will prevent
the depositing of the eggs. If any eggs are seen on the anirnal, they can be
wasned or rubbed otf, thus keeping them out of the mouth.
LOSS OF APPETITE.
Loss of appetite often results from long-continued feeding on h. y and
oats, without change; from too much feeding; from insufficient or irregular
work; from bad food and bad water; from a dirty stall: or it may be a
symptom of some disease whose cure is the remedy for the lost appetite.
Symptoms.—Nothing may be observable but an indispesition to eat for
along time, the horse tossing his food around; the mouth may be hot, tongue
red, breath dry and offensive; sticky mucus in the mouth.
TREATMENT.—Nux vomica four times daily is usually sufficient. If
the mouth, tongue and breath be affected, use mercurius. For disordered
stomach, marked by hot mouth, red tongue ard offensive breath, together
with lost appetite and diarrhcea, give arsenicum. A simple change of the
food to mashes and roots will often restore the tone of the stomach and im-
prove the appetite. When this fails and there is no such impediment to eat-
ing as too long teeth or sore tongue, particularly if the horse is listless and
the coat staring, one of the condition powders mentioned in the Materia
Medica may be used. Give moderate exercise in the open air.
INDIGESTION.—DYSPEPSIA.
Acute dyspepsia or indigestion is caused by excessive feeding; rich
food; hasty eating; copious drinks after meals; hot food; irritating plants.
The chronic form results from insufficient or irregular work; badly-cured
forage; a long continuance of the same kind of food without change; irregu-
larity in times and quantity of feeding; rapid eating just before work; im-
pertect mastication; badly-ventilated stables; improper treatment of some
disease, as by too large doses of calomel or tartar emetic.
Symptoms.— Tongue foul and coated; mouth slimy; changeable or
corrupted appetite; unhealthy coat; sometimes ravenous eating, dirty litter
and even dung being consumed; perhaps licking the whitewash on walls
and manger, ending often in wind-sucking or crib-biting; or the appetite
may be wholly Jost; rapid Jess of flesh; abdomen full or tucked up; wesk-
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82 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
mess; casy sweats; dung black and hard, or offensive and soft; urine thick,
white, or high-colored; most of the grain is passed whole; frequently a
short, hacking and irritating cough. |
When there is a capricious or vile appetite, with hard, dry cough, there
is derangement of the nerves of the lungs and stomach (pneumogastric
nerve). The capricious or ravenous appetite, with the dung passed in hard,
small, black or clay-colored balls, being slimy and offensive, the mucous
membranes being of a yellow tinge, indicates gastric derangement; in which
case slight pains in the abdomen are felt, skin variable in temperature, ex-
tremities cold and hot alternately, urine generally scanty and high-colored,
though it may be paler than usual. If the horse becomes “ pot-bellied ” or
dropsical, or loses flesh rapidly, or has dropsical swellings on different parts,
the bowels being alternately loose and constipated, the symptoms show de-
rangement and enlargement of the glands in the folds of the intestines.
Imperfect mastication is followed by hay rejected from the mouth partially
chewed, grain passing whole, the animal being in a low condition and
hide-bound, and these symptoms demand an examination of the teeth with
a balling-iron.
TREATMENT.—Nux vomica is especially demanded by capricious or
depraved appetite, and is preferable to mercurial preparations when this
appetite results from disease of the liver. Nux vomica is also needed when
food passes undigested, or when the dung is hard, lumpy, or glazed with
mucus; tongue slimy and furred; three to five drops of the tincture three
or four times a day being suitable doses. Arsenicum is required in cases
of long standing, with much weakness and Joss of flesh, little appetite, fre-
quent coughing after eating and drinking, dung soft, purging during work,
skin scurfy and hide-bound. This drug in the form of iodide of arsenic is
particularly valuable in cases induced by enlargement of the intestinal
glands, with dropsical swellings of the chest, belly or legs. Antimonium
crudum is superior for windy stomach, with pains, rough coat, thirst, and
offensive dung, or when dreggy lumps are passed, and also for aversion to
food. Ipecac is useful for nearly all forms of indigestion. Phosphorus or
phosphoric acid is very useful for narrow-chested horses with consumptive
tendency, and what is improperly called a “ stomach cough”? (really caused
by irritation of the pneumogastric nerve), as it removes the cough and
checks the diarrheea. A few doses of cinchona, followed by one or two
.of nux vomica, are desirable for horses weakened by shedding the coat,
which has induced indigestion and capricious appetite. Mercurius is desir-
able when both liver and stomach are deranged, the skin and eyes being
yellowish. In chronic cases of indigestion marked by the general symp-
toms which indicate nux vomica, a dose of sulphur may be profitably given
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THE MORSE—-THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 83
every morning, with nux vomica at night. For liquid and offensive dung
and total loss of appetite, give pulsatilla. Ten to twenty grains of bismuth
or sulphate of soda night and morning will be serviceable.
In the way of general care, ascertain the cause of indigestion and re-
move it if possible. For example, if the teeth are uneven or long, rasp
them}; if the food be bad, change it; give a variety of green food if dry
grain has been fed; give oats only when crushed; feed often, but little at a
time. When exercise has been long neglected, give regular and moderate
walking, avoiding quick work soon after feeding, and hard work altogether
for atime. If the animal bolts the food at the beginning of the meal, give him
a little hay to partialiy appease hunger, then follow with the oats,-meal,
oran, or whatever is to be given. Proper food and exercise are the essentials.
CRIB-BITING AND WIND-SUCKING.
These are caused by a disordered stomach, or they may be acquired by,
imitation; hence animals given to the practices should be separated from
others, lest they afford a pernicious example. They reduce the condition
of the horse and induce colic. After long indulgence the gullet is irregular
in width, the abdomen swells, and wind in the stomach ensues.
Symptoms.—F ront teeth worn unnaturally by rubbing or pressing the
edge of the teeth on a hard substance, as the manger; the teeth are fastened
into the manger; the neck is curved, and air is sucked in and swallowed
with a peculiar noise; such is called a crib-biter. The wind-sucker presses
the lips, instead of tne teeth, against the manger; the neck is curved; the
feet brought together, and wind sucked in and swallowed.
TREATMENT.—Straps, racks and muzzles are of little use; straps are
liable to induce disorders of the air-passages which will end in roaring.
Nails and sheet-iron put on the manger are apt to fail of their purpose, and
will break the teeth. Aloes and coal-oil put on the manger have done some
good. An effectual remedy is to remove the manger and whatever else the
horse can fix his teeth or lips upon, and to feed him upon the ground. The
simplest and most effective plan, however, is to put in a smooth, hard roller
for the edge of the manger, which will revolve easily from any attempt to
fasten upon it with the teeth or lips, thus preventing the practice. Some
form of muzzle may be put on that will make the act impossible.
STOMACH STAGGERS.
This disease is usually caused by overloading the stomach, especially
after a considerable fast, and by quick feeding; dry hay or barley, mingled
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84 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
in the stomach with water; or excessive eating at a crib may be the cause.
Any of these produce a swelling of the stomach, and lead to the disorder.
Sym ptoms.—The horse stands listless, drooping, drowsy, unsteady, or
staring vacantly and unwilling to move; presses hard against the wall or
rests the chin on the manger; occasionally falls asleep with partially masti-
cated food in the mouth; pulse full and slow; yellow mucous membranes;
bowels constipated; urine stops; breathing deep and snoring; if the disease
increases, there ensues partial paralysis of the hind extremities; wild and
staring eyes, or dilated pupil and insensibility to light; the animal walks
around the stable, striking his head upon different objects; some tremors
and sweats, with pain in the abdomen, or delirium; he stamps and looks at his
' sides; lies flat down, or sits on his haunches, not rolling or throwing him-
self as in colic; or brain-symptoms may predominate, the pulse being full,
VIOLENCE SOMETIMES EVINCED IN STOMACH STAGGERS, BUT MoRE COMMON IN MAn STAGGERS.
bounding and quickened; the horse raises the fore feet into the manger,
falls back, blowing or snorting, and hes exhausted; rises, grows sleepy, the
enlarged pupils of the eyes and wild expression giving place to drooping
lids and hanging tongue and head, with staggering; then the furious man-
ner recurs and, being repeated, is followed by death from ruptured stomach,
These symptoms should be carefully observed, as some of them are attend-
ant upon apoplexy and brain fever, One of these is indicated if the horse
has not caten heartily after a fast, has not been at the crib, or on rich pas-
ture in a hot sun when he is in bad condition, has not had grain whole and
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THE HORSE—THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 85
unsoaked, has not been previously attacked, or if the disease is not prev-
alent in the neighborhood. An explicit slowing of the difference be-
tween Stomach Staggers and Brain Fever (Mad Staggers) is given under
‘the latter disease. Read also what is said upon Apoplexy.
TREATMENT.—Give adrench of five drachms of horse-aloes and two
drachms of carbonate of soda, dissolved in a pint of boiling water, to
empty the stomach. Then treat the paralysis and brain-disorder with nux
vomica and belladonna, When no delirium exists, nux vomica will suffice,
given every two hours, beginning two hours after the drench of aloes.
For symptoms of delirium, give belladonna every two hours in alternation
with nux vomica. Should the cleansing of the stomach commence, alter-
nate these remedies every two hours. Give all the water the horse wants, but
withhold all food the first twenty-four hours, thereafter giving bran-mashes
or thick gruel. Apply cold cloths to the head during treatment.
PAIN IN THE STOMACH.
This is indicated by symptoms similar to those of colic (which see),
but the horse in stomach-pain puts his nose behind the left elbow-joint,
the seat of the stomach; gas rises from tbe stomach, producing waves
along the gullet like those caused by the passage of food or drink, though
in the opposite direction.
TREATMENT.—Give ten drops of antimonium crudum in a little flour
every half-hour or hour until relief is given. A mild laxative may be
given in the form of linseed oil or aloes. To quiet the pain, chloral
hydrate or a hyperdermic injection of morphia may be used. Copious in-
jections of hot water into the bowel will aid in giving relief.
CHOKING.
Bolting oats, swallowing potatoes, apples, carrots, medicinal balls, or
even a whole egg, will cause choking; it may also result from stricture of
the gullet, which is mentioned below.
Symptoms.—Refusal of food ; slobbering; water flows from the mouth
in an attempt to drink; frequent efforts at swallowing, with spasmodic con-
traction of the muscles of the neck; occasionally a sharp noise indicating
pain. When the difficulty is in the throat, slobbering, cough, quick
breath, sweats and frequent retchings occur. When it is further down in the
gullet, a swelling arises in the left side of the neck; when still lower down,
violent retching after swallowing a fluid, with less violent choking.
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86 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
TREATMENT.— Linseed oil forced into or through the throat will usually
remove the difficulty. If the choking isin the throat, open the mouth,
draw the tongue far out and put the hand into the throat and remove the
obstruction, the throat being rubbed or pressed at the same time to loosen
it. If itis in the neck, rub and press the swollen part, and drench with
tepid water until the horse
swallows the substance, or
throws it up in retching. In
the failure of these expedients,
or when the offending object
is out of reach by other means,
such a probang as is men-
tioned under Stricture of the
Gullet, or other like instru-
ment, may be slowly and very
gently pushed along the gut-
: : ter of the roof of the mouth
TS RHEE IN UEP BARE Gr SeLben, until the obstruction is reached,
and pressure be then gently applied to force it into the stomach. Such an
operation is a delicate one, and should not be resorted to unless it is cer-
tainly known that the obstructing body has passed below the opening into.
the windpipe. The instrument is to be perfectly smooth and always well
oiled before it is used.
When the choking persists, gag the animal by passing between the
jaws a smooth roller of wood, drawing it well up between the teeth, and
securing it thus by cords
attached to the projecting
ends and reaching up over
the head. This prevents
swelling of the abdomen,
and the obstruction will
probably soon pass down
into the stomach. When
using the probang, if the
clogging is stubborn, it is
well to stop the pressure,
gag the animal as here
Low Cuoke—1n Lower Part oF GULLET.
directed, and then apply
the probang again after a brief interval. If meal, bran and other fine food,
or even oats, be fed, they will only become packed closely in the gullet, or
cesophagus, after remaining a short time, and make the case worse. It is
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THE HORSE—THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 87
_ always best in this kind of choking to pour down well-cooked gruel or
water to break up the mass and carry it into the stomach a little at a time.
The last resort is the opening of the gullet by a surgeon. After the
removal of the object, and the stitching of the wound, no solid food should
be given for some time.
INFLAMMATION OF THE MOUTH AND TONGUE.
This is caused by bruises from severe bits; biting of the tongue; lick-
ing irritating substances; improper administration of medicines, such as
turpentine and ammonia; injuries from giving balls; teething; irregular or
decayed teeth,
Symptoms.—Mouth red, painful and swollen; much fever; free dis-
charge of mucus; peeling off of the mucous membrane of the mouth,
followed by new sores, ulceration, and perhaps gangrene; the tongue
sometitnes hangs out, possibly with formation of matter, or it may remain
stiff, hard and enlarged; difficult swallowing; obstructed respiration, with
threatened choking; perhaps suppuration.
TREATMENT.—Should any feverish symptoms be present, give aconite
every four hours. When local inflammation alone exists, give belladonna.
When, after the inflammation has remained some time, the tongue is swol-
len and hard, and salivation continues, administer mercurius corrosivus.
When the inflammation has been caused by injuries, arnica may be given
internally, and a lotion of the same may also be applied to the wound.
Arsenicum is valuable when gangrene is threatened or the discharge is
offensive. In cases threatened with gangrene, or attended with an offen-
sive discharge from the mouth, a wash should be used composed of two
dessert-spoonfuls of Condy’s Fluid anda half-pint of water. When this’
cifficulty is a simple inflammation from deranged digestion or other causes,
wash the mouth frequently with cool astringent agencies, as vinegar and
water, alum, tannin, tincture of myrrh, or a very weak solution of carbolic
acid, ten drops to a pint of water. Sometimes the tongue becomes so
much swollen as to threaten suffocation, and matter also forms in it. In
these cases a cutting or scarifying of the tongue becomes necessary, fol-
lowed by washing the mouth four or five times a day with a lotion com-
posed of one ounce of calendula and twelve ounces of water. As food,
give oatmeal-gruel or linseed-tea, by drenches if necessary. Give all the
cold water the animal wants. Should ulcerations “gather” or point,
lance them. On examination of the list of causes one will readily infer that
irritating drugs are to be given with care, the teeth to be watched, and the
food carefully regulated.
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88 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
APHTHA OR THRUSH IN THE MOUTH.
This is less frequent in the horse than in other animals. It is an in-
flammation of the tongue or mucous membrane of the mouth, consisting
of a pimply eruption which terminates in white scabs or dead skin.
Though usually constitutional, it may result from a chemical process, or
from a mechanical one, such as pressure.
Symptoms.—Clusters of white vesicles on the tongue, especially the
sides and tip, and on the inside of the cheeks and lips; increased flow of
saliva; difficult feeding; vesicles burst; small ulcers take
place; the scaly covering of the tongue peels off, leav-
ing a raw surface, which prevents eating; sometimes
strangles occur with this disease.
TREATMENT.—Give mercurius three times a day,
dry on the tongue. Should the mercurius not remove
the disorder in two* days, or if unmistakable signs of
derangement of the stomach be preser.t, give nux
vomica three or four times a day. Arsenicum and sui-
phur are useful for ulcerations of the lips and nose. As
Arutmous MoutH. 4 local remedy, one dessert-spoonful of Condy’s Fluid in
eight ounces of water will cleanse the mouth. A solution of bi-sulphite
of soda, or of borax, will also be a good wash.
CARIES OR ULCERATION OF THE JAW.
The use of the high bit and tight nose-band causes laceration of the
palate, followed by unhealthy sores which extend to the bone and end in
ulceration. Between the tushes and molars of the lower jaw a like injury
may also be produced by a long check-bit and tight curb.
Symptoms.—Slobbering, often offensive and bloody; inability to eat
hard food, which is thrown from the mouth during mastication ; ragged
wound in the mouth, with granulations at the bottom or on the sides; the
probe easily finds the bone; sometimes mortification.
TREATMENT.—For a sloughing wound, with dingy-colored base and
unhealthy granulations, touch the bottom of the wound and the granula-
tions once a day with some mild caustic, as nitrate of silver, until the
wound becomes of a healthy appearance, when treatment should cease.
Give green food, if possible, not using a bit until the wound is healed. The
reckless use of severe curbs and check-bits deserves the highest censure.
The substitution of more grateful ones, and the proper change in the nose-
band will prevent many cases.
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THE HORSE—-THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. 89
CARIES OR ULCERATION OF THE TEETH.
This is a result of some disease of the teeth, and produces a half-bone,
half-cartilage growth on the cellular structure of the jaw, which can be
remedied only by cutting it off It is generally a corruption of the
‘dentine and enamel and may originate at the fang, when the inside pulp is
destroyed, and hence the tooth dies. If it attacks the last three upper
molars, it extends to the maxillary cavities and nasal chambers, producing
adischarge similar to that in glanders. Should an abscess break on the
surface, fistula of the face occurs, and should be treated as directed under
the section on that disease. Ulceration of the teeth may result from
strangles and catarrh when the nasal discharge has been free for a long
time. Hot food or large doses of mercury may cause it. Usually, how-
ever, there is an unknown cause acting through the nerves and blood-ves-
sels of the center of the tooth.
Symptoms.—If the tooth aches, the horse rests one side of the head
on the manger and refuses food; swollen cheek and increased flow of saliva.
In other cases, the horse “ quids’”’ hay or corn,
and drops it, or bolts corn, so that it is whole in
the dung; offensive breath; if the maxillary cavi-
ties are diseased, a discharge of pus and mucus
flow from the nostril on the side affected—from
both if both sides are diseased; the glands under
the jaw are swollen as in glanders; eye some-
times irritated; the horse loses flesh and becomes
hide-bound; the balling-iron shows a black spot Ce aaten een ee
or cavity in the tooth, with collections of decom- ak iad
posed and very offensive food; gums sometimes inflamed and swollen.
TREATMENT.—This consists mainly in the removal of the diseased
tooth by a skillful operator. If the jaw be diseased, it should be cleansed
daily with carbolated water. Apply tincture of myrrh to the gums.
IRREGULAR GROWTH OF THE TEETH.
The grinding surface sometimes becomes sharp and uneven, ‘causing
serious injury to the tongue, cheek or palate, and occasionally a disorder in
the upper jaw, with symptoms similar to those in ulceration of the teeth,
‘One of the most common forms is the projection of one of the incisors out-
ward (“buck-tooth” ); while an extra tooth appears sometimes in front of
the molars ( “ wolt-tooth” }.
TREATMENT.— Rasp the teeth or cut off the projecting parts. Some-
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90 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
times remove the- irregular tooth. These steps should be taken by a
skillful operator with special instruments, never be knocked out with a punch.
LAMPAS.
Lampas is a disorder occurring especially among young horses, and
consisting in inflammation and swelling of the front part of the palate,
causing it to descend as low as the front teeth, or below them. It results
from teething or derangement of the stomach, usually preventing the horse
from eating.
TREATMENT.—No treatment, as a rule, is necessary except that the
horse be given bran and other soft food for a few days, and the mouth be
occasionally washed with a solution made of a teaspoonful of alum and a
half-pint of water. For derangement of the stomach, nux vomica is cften
useful. Mercurius is also beneficial. Scarifying is unnecessary, but it is
best to apply some soothing wash, as one of tincture of myrrh. Give lin-.
seed-tea, gruel and bran-mashes, but no hay, until recovery ensues.
SALIVATION.—“SLOBBERS,”
Salivation, or undue flow of saliva, is caused by eating certain kinds of
green food; administering mercury, whether by the nose or mouth, or by
friction on the skin; inflammation of the mouth and salivary glands. It
has sometimes occurred when it could be attributed only to some derange-
ment of the nerves supplying the salivary gland. It is indicated by an un-
usual flow of saliva, with or without offensive breath, and with or without
sore mouth. When the administration of mercury is the cause, the teeth
may be loose, the gums ulcerate, and general disorder of the stomach and
bowels set in.
TREATMENT.—When the cause is green food, change the feed and
give a few drops of nitric acid or mercurius night and morning; if caused
by mercury, give nitric acid, iodine, and iodide or chlorate of potassium.
When traceable to nervous derangement, and not to mercury, give arseni-
cum every four or five hours. In persistent cases, try chlorate or iodide
potassa, rubbing iodine ointment over the glands, ynder the ears and be-
tween the jaws. A wash of hydrastia and water (one part of fluid hydras-
tia to ten of water), or an infusion of butternut-bark will restore the in-
tegrity of the gums and lessen the flow of saliva. “Slobbers” which
arises from feeding on low clover pasturage is often very disagreeable to
the rider or driver, and he may give temporary relief by feeding a pint of
dry bran, but a cure comes only by a change of pasture.
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THE HORSE—THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. OL
SALIVARY CALCULI.
These are masses usually composed of phosphate and carbonate of
lime mingled with animal matter, which form in the glands that pass over
the margin of the jaw below the ear, or in the glands beneath these, or in
those which are under the tongue.
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THE HORSE—THE SKIN. 129
HIDE-BOUND.
Hide-bound is a sticking of the skin to the ribs, either as a symptom
of some disease internally, or as a result of absorption of the adipose matter
and fat under the skin. Sometimes the abdomen is distended with wind, or
is contracted and tucked up. .
TREATMENT.—TIf it results from another disease, that must be removed
by the proper treatment. In cases of indigestion, a very common cause,
give ten drops of nux vomica three times a day. Steep a pint of linseed
in boiling water and add it toa bran-mash, giving this every night. If
the horse be poor, give soft, nutritious diet, as clover and other green food.
MALLENDERS AND SALLENDERS.
These are unsightly scurfy eruptions on the back of the knee and front
of the hock respectively. They are caused by washing the legs and not
properly drying, and by bad grooming.
Symptoms.—Cracks or scurf on the back of the knee or bend of the
hock; itching; sometimes lameness. Previous to this there might have
been an eruption with a fluid oozing out
and forming a scab with mingled dirt and
pieces of cuticle, sometimes ending in ulcer-
ations, like cracks at the heels.
TREATMENT.— Soften the scurf night
and morning with warm water, and dress
with a preparation of one drachm of car-
bolic acid and two ounces of glycerine.
Or give arsenicum internally and apply
externally a preparation of one drachm
pens—vack or of he arsenicalis and two eunces of ohLeenpaas ts
: glycerine. Thuja is a valuable internal
and external remedy; for external use add one part of the tincture to two
of glycerine. A wash made by steeping the leaves of the arbor vite is
also useful and convenient.
RING-WORM.—TETTER.
This is an eruption of the skin which results from low condition; bad
food; sudden change of food, even if from bad to good; contagion, the
groom himself being thus liable to it.
Sym ptoms.—W hite scaly scurf, more often on the neck, shoulders or
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130 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
quarters, spreading out in a circular form one or two inches in diameter,
composed of pimples with raised edges; itching; scales and hair fall;
pimples disappear, leaving nothing but scurf and loss of hair. Sometimes
however it takes the form of pustules in limited patches, giving out a dis-
charge which mats the hair; a crust then forms that is easily removed; small
cavities are underneath, some containing pus.
TREATMENT.—-Give bran-mashes at night, and arsenicum night and
morning. In the dry form, apply daily a preparation of one half-drachm of
carbolic acid to one ounce of glycerine. Inthe humid form, remove the
scabs and dress the sores daily with a mixture of one drachm of liquor ar-
senicalis to one ounce of water, giving rhus or arsenicum in a wine glass-
ful of water three times daily. Promote the general health.
WARTS.
Warts are excrescences of varying size, spongy and readily bled, or hard
and dry, occurring singly on the belly, sheath, and inside of the thigh, or
in clusters on the face, nose, ears, and eyelids. They may have a broad
base, or stand or hang ona stem. They are probably caused by deranged
secretion of the skin.
TREATMENT.—Remove any that are on a stem or small base by tying
ligatures firmly around the base and leaving them until the warts fall off;
the application of caustics is still better. If the wart be broad and moist,
or if large and very “seedy,” and bleeds easily, scrape the surface raw
with the thumb nail (if not already raw), moisten the finger, dip it in
powdered arsenic, and put a slight layer on the raw surface, leaving it
thus. The wart will usually drop off, after one application, in ten to twen-
ty days, never growing again. If clusters of small warts appear on the
face and about the eyes, wet the warts three times a day with thuja; if this
does not succeed, use rhus in the same way. Sometimes the wart has no
attachment to the skin other than a sac which incloses it. In such cases,
cut the sac, squeeze out the wart, and the cut will heal at once.
ERYSIPELAS.
This is a spreading painful inflammation which frequently affects the
underlying parts, or even the internal organs. It may be communicated
by one animal to another. Among its predisposing causes are foul air or
food, debility from diseases, as those of the liver and kidneys, absorption of
poisonous matters through a sore, as cracked heel in the horse, green buck-
wheat as food, sudden suppression of the secretions of the skin, unhealthy
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THE HORSE—THE SKIN. 131
lodgings, proximity to decaying animal and vegetable matter. The excit-
ing causes are local irritations, as from chafing in work, rubbing of harness,
corroding medicines on the skin, bites and stings of insects, burns, scalds,
dropsy, wounds, open sores exposed to accumulations of rotting manure or
other matter.
Symptoms.—The first symptom is usually a fever, followed by loss
of appetite; dullness; quickened pulse and breath; hot skin; constipation;
scanty, high-colored urine; elevated temperature at the rectum ; then spread-
ing, hot, tender, slimy, itching swelling, very often starting from some sore,
though not always; the inflammation may extend to the underlying tissues,
or may be dropsical in its character; the border of the swelling is abrupt;
the skin is tense, pits on pressure, perhaps shows pimples and is more or
less red, the shade being deeper on a clear, white skin. After some days
either the swelling and redness subside, and the sores dry into scales which
drop off and leave a dark-red and tender surface; or cracks appear with
sores which have little tendency to heal. In the horse, the head, chest,
belly and hind limbs are especially subject to a dropsical swelling.
_ TrEaTMENT.—Rhus is one of the best remedies in the treatment of
this disorder, especially when blisters form, accompanied by fever and a hot,
rapidly-spreading swelling. Arsenicum should be given when cracked
heel is the cause, and will be found to be a good general remedy, especially
if pus has formed. Apply to the parts warm fomentations of a weak solu-
tion of tincture of muriate of ammonia, or of sulphate of zinc, protecting
the sore then from cold air. A dry application of zinc and starch is also
recommended. Iodized adhesive plaster may also be of service, especially
in checking the spread of the swelling. If matter has formed, let it out.
GALLS.
Galls are caused by a badly-fitting saddle or collar; by the harness or
girth; by bad riding; by removing a saddle too soon after a ride, before
the horse becomes cool.
TREATMENT.—For saddle-galls, with deep bruising of the tissues,
apply one part of arnica to nine of water once in four hours, with a soft rag
or sponge, keeping the injured surface covered from exposure to the air
and insects. If there be soft tumors arising from inflammation, open the
swellings, squeeze out the contents, and put in a few drops of arnica tinc-
ture, if the cause be friction of the saddle. When the swelling, from neg-
lect or frequent recurrence, becomes hard and the skin thickened and half
dead, the sore perhaps being partially separated all around from the healthy
skin, the tumor may be cut out and the sore dressed with tincture of calen-
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132 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
dula, at the same time giving internally six drops of the same, thoroughly
mixed with a little water. Equal parts of Venetian turpentine and lard
make a good application; and equa] parts of mercurial ointment and lard
are beneficial. Of the three remedies the first is the best. Should the
muscles of the back as well as the skin be injured, causing serous sacs in
the skin, foment and apply arnica-lotion. This failing, lay open the sac
and dress with calendula-lotion. Use care with the harness and saddle.
WORMS IN THE SKIN.
Worms in the skin are sometimes found in tumors, resulting from the
gad-fly depositing its eggs. The tumor may be as large as a pigeon’s egg,
and more than one may be found. They occur mainly in the back and
loins. To remove this trouble, put a few drops of carbolic-acid lotion
where the eggs have been deposited, either before or after the hatching.
BITES AND STINGS OF INSECTS.
The irritation resulting from these may be relieved by applying exter-
nally arnica-lotion. As a preventive of the biting, rub on the body, es-
pecially the flanks, a strong infusion or tea of green elder-leaves.
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CHAPTER VII.
THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS.
INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS.
NFLAMMATION of the kidneys is not frequent, and is caused by bad
food; kiln-dried oats; mow-burnt hay; exposure to cold and wet;
injuries from blows, weights and other sprains; frequent doses of
sp strong medicines to promote the flow of urine, as cantharides, turpen-
tine and nitre; gravel and other diseases.
Symptoms.—Considerable fever; pain, indicated by looking at the
loins, and by groans; loins tender; back arched; hind limbs stiff and. far
apart; horse stands still or moves stiffly and perhaps with lameness; fre-
.
i.
”
PosiTION IN URINARY DISORDERS IN GENERAL.
quent attempts to pass urine, the discharges being dark and scanty, some-
times pussy and bloody. In advanced stages the pulse, at first full, hard
and rapid, becomes weak and wiry; breathing quick and short; intense
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THE HORSE—THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS, 185
thirst; dry, hot mouth; skin dry; strong-smelling sweat; constipation; still
later, exhaustion, indifference, sleepiness, and death.
This may be distinguished from inflammation of the neck of the bladder
by the brown or nearly black urine, which is of about the natural color in
the latter disease. If the hand be oiled and passed up the rectum, the
bladder will be found considerably enlarged if it be inflamed, while it is
empty and contracted in the disorder which we are now treating.
TREATMENT.—In the first stages of fever, indicated by full, rapid
pulse, hot, dry mouth and skin, rapid breathing, thirst, scanty urine, and
pain in the loins, give aconite. This may be alternated with belladonna
if relief be not given, or if there be hot loins, pain about the kidneys, indi-
cated by the horse frequently looking anxiousiy at them, or if there be a
wild, frightened look. Cantharis, 7f 7¢ has not previously been given, is
beneficial for frequent passages of scanty urine, with difficult straining, and
when the urine is tinged with blood. Rhus is demanded when sprains are
the cause. This and arnica should also be applied externally. Camphor
is useful when cantharis, given as Spanish-fly or otherwise, is the cause. If
bad food be the cause, give nux vomica, the symptoms demanding it being
unsuccessful efforts to pass urine, colicky pains, looking at the flanks, and
constipation. Mercurius corrosivus is one of the best remedies in both acute
and chronic cases, and its use is called for when the urine is scanty and
passed with frequent urgings and great pain; it may be alternated with
aconite or belladonna. A very common but pernicious course is a resort to
diuretics, that is, stimulants to the action of the kidneys. These should not
be used, for the-scantiness of the urine which it is desired to correct is due
to engorgement of the kidneys, and the diuretics will aggravate the en-
gorgement. Free perspiration is the best means for freeing the blood of
the poisonous matters retained in consequence of the obstruction to the
kidneys. Apply warm fomentations to the loins. Give bran-mashes and
scalded linseed for food. Mix the drinking-water with linseed-tea, enough
to make it glutinous without being distasteful to the animal,
INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER.
Inflammation of the bladder sometimes attends or follows inflamma-
tion of the kidneys, or it may occur independently, caused by exposure to
damp and cold; by injuries; by stone (see page 139); by giving nitre,
Spanish-fly, or other strong medicines for the urinary organs. _
Symptoms.—Restlessness ; mouth, throat and wlimentary canal irri-
tated and inflamed; difficult swallowing; hind legs tremble; testes drawn
up; sexual excitement; mucous and bloody dung; rapid pulse; frequent
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136 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
attempts to pass urine are unfruitful, or only a few drops pass with pain and
difficulty, followed by a temporary cessation of pain; urine sometimes clear,
at other times mixed with mucous or bloody matter, burning and irr‘tating;
the parts around the bladder are hot and tender, and this organ is found
very painful when examined through the rectum. If the disease is not ar-
rested, the bladder fills and swells, its neck opens and urine dribbles away;
prostration follows, with sweats, paralysis of the hind quarters, and finally
death.
Test FOR INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER.
TrREATMENT.—Give aconite for symptoms of fever; frequent, fruitless,
painful attempts to pass urine; pain on pressure of the parts near the bladder;
urine scanty, muddy, or mixed with blood. Cantharis is demanded by dis-
tended bladder and tenderness of adjacent parts; mattery and mucous urine
passed in drops, the pain increasing during such passages. Should cantharis
fail, give nux vomica. Injections of anodynes into the bladder, by skillful
hands, are very useful for relieving the inflammation, and the following
will be especially valuable: To one pint of gum-arabic water add one
drachm of fluid hydrastia and one drachm of tincture of opium; inject this
into the bladder luke-warm. In the general care, give freely of linseed or
slippery-elm tea, or a strong solution of gum-arabic. Scalded linseed in
bran-mashes is the best diet. Guard against the exciting causes.
SPASM OF THE NECK OF THE BLADDER.
This occurs as the result of prolonged retention of urine in horses that
are worked or driven to excess, and as a consequence of chill when the
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THE HORSE-~-THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS, 137
animal is heated, or as an attendant of colic and irritation of the neck of
the bladder. It is most coinmon in males.
Symptoms.—F requent efforts to urinate, the urine passing in a few
‘drops or dribbling away with some pain and straining; tenderness of the
back; the hand passed up the rectum feels the distended bladder, the neck
being tense and firm, not distended as in stone or gravel. If the bladder is
not relieved of the urine, it is liable to burst and be followed by inflamma-
tion of the peritoneum (peritonitis), an issue which is however less common
in the horse than in the ox and sheep.
TREATMENT.—The treatment consists in the use of antispasmodics,
either in the rectum or mouth, chloral hydrate, belladonna, hyoscyamus and
tobacco being the best. These may be injected into the rectum or given
internally, or both. If these measures fail to relieve, a suitable catheter
should be used by skillful hands to draw off the urine. Sometimes the
spreading of fresh bedding under the horse will promote the flow of urine.
EVERSION OR FALLING OF THE BLADDER.
This can occur only in the female, and is the result of severe straining
during irritation of the bladder. It is most liable to ensue from over-
distension, difficult parturition, or paralysis.
Symptoms.—The animal strains violently; between the lips of the
vulva is seen a red, rounded mass, upon whose surface, near the neck, may
be seen the mouths of two canals which convey the urine from the bladder,
and from these mouths the urine escapes in drops.
TREATMENT.—Return the bladder to its place as follows: Wash the
protruding mass in warm water, and oil it well; then oil the hands, press
in the center of the mass, gently pushing it upward. If the neck of the
bladder is swollen and inflamed, the greater care should be taken to avoid
injury or rupture in its coats. If great straining continues after this opera-
tion and threatens a recurrence, a surgeon should apply a truss or other
mechanical appliance to retain the bladder firmly in its place.
ALBUMINURIA.—BRIGHT’S DISEASE.
This consists in an inflammation of the kidneys, attended with shed-
ding of the coat and finally structural change of the kidneys. It may be
‘either acute or chronic. The urine may contain albumen as a result of
inflammatory disorders, and yet Bright’s Disease not be present. The
latter is always attended with albumen, but all cases of the presence of
albumen are not Bright’s Disease.
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188 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
Symptoms.—The urine is thick, ropy, and contains parts of the lining
of the urinary tubes which the microscope will detect; when it is boiled,
or subjected to the action of dilute nitric acid, it coagulates into whitish
flakes which settle atthe bottom of a test-tube (see page 216). The animal
is awkward behind in gait, with indisposition to lie down, and with more
or less tenderness over the loins. The disease is usually fatal, the animal
dying with dropsy or uremic poisoning, though prompt and efficient.
treatment has cured some cases.
TREATMENT.—Diuretics, that is, means of promoting increased secre-
tion and passage of urine, should not be used, but rather such expedients,
both medicinal and general, as will relieve the kidneys of the performance:
A Hoksk with ALILUMINOUS URINE.
of their usual functions, and reduce the inflammation. Among internal
remedies belladonna and mercurius corrosivus are the best; they should be
used in alternation and persisted in until the kidneys are relieved and the
flow of urine becomes free, they being particularly demanded if the urine
is bloody. Warm fomentations and mustard should be applied about the
loins. Keep the pores of the skin open by studious cleanliness and free
perspiration, but guard against draughts and other influences likely to
induce colds. Restrict the diet to oatmeal gruels and the like, giving bran-
mashes to keep the bowels open. See “Urinary System,” page 45.
DIABETES.—EXCESSIVE URINE.
This causes great prostration, and may lead to glanders. If the urine
be clear, containing no sugar, the disorder is known as diabetes insipidus.
If the urine is sugary, as is rarely the case, the disease is called d/adetcs
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THE HORSE—-THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS, 1389
mellitus. The chief causes are musty or mow-burnt hay, kiln-dried oats,.
bran, and other dry or bad food; impure water; indigestion; chronic disease:
of the kidneys; strangles; the use of “condition balls,” turpentine, nitre,,
and the much-advertised specifics for horses; excessive drinking; certain.
plants in the pasture; cold and wet. Increased urine may result from ner-
vous disorders, from change of food, and other causes, but should this be
only temporary, no attention need be paid to it.
Symptoms.—Excessive thirst; impaired, capricious or depraved appe-
tite; dry and clammy mouth; white and furred tongue; offensive breaths,
dry skin and rough, staring coat; deranged digestion; constipation; urine
clear, or somewhat milky, and passed in very great quantities; the horse is.
dull, weak, out of condition, and sweats easily; glanders may ensue and
prove fatal, or the horse may die from the diabetes any time within a year.
TREATMENT.—Phosphoric acid should be given for profuse colorless.
or milky urine; great thirst; sweats and loss of flesh ensuing from light
exercise. Give arsenicum for weakness and emaciation; dry mouth; exces-
sive thirst; sugary urine. Nux vomica is demanded for depraved appetite;
poor digestion; profuse, frequent, limpid urine; dung covered with mucus.
If the urine be frequent and copious, with red, sand-like sediment, give
lycopodium. If the urine be copious, rmore so at night, muddy and offen-
sive, or if it be brown-red, or if blood comes from the bladder, give mer-
curius. Stop at once the use of any food that may have caused the dis-
order, especially avoiding musty or very dry articles.
SCANTY URINE.—RETENTION OF URINE.
These disorders may result from inflammation of some urinary organ 5.
from some obstruction forming in an organ; from excessive dung accumu-
lated in the rectum; from falling of the womb; from diminished secretion,
owing to the perspiration incident to hot weather or hard work.
TREATMENT.—If the cause be some other disease, that must be
treated. Should the horse be otherwise in apparently good health aside:
from decreased urination, give bryonia or arsenicum three times a day.
Should the urine be retained in the biadder, which may be known by
passing the hand up the rectum to the bladder, it should be drawn off with.
a catheter in skillful hands, not by one who lacks experience.
STONE.—GRAVEL.
This is a deposit of solid earthy matter in the urinary organs, some-
times only sandy and gritty, sometimes in the form of a stone, which may
ws:
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140 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
be small, or, if in the bladder, may weigh several pounds. Among its
most probable causes are earthy particles in the food and water, as grass
grown on limy soils or those supplied with phosphates as fertilizers; water
charged with salts of lime and magnesia; dry feeding; scanty urine from
any cause; perhaps hard water.
Symptoms.—Stone in the £¢dzeys may be suspected, but not positively
known, from tenderness of the loins, colicky pains, discharge of sand and
blood with the urine. Stone in the d/adder will be indicated by an awkward,
straggling gait, with lind legs apart; frequent efforts at urination resulting
in scanty and difficult discharges; the urine sometimes comes out suddenly,
or may be as suddenly stopped, and sometimes it dribbles out and makes
the legs and thighs sore; colicky pains; occasional discharges of blood and
thick sediment. The stone, if large, may be felt by passing the hand up
the rectum to the bladder. Stones in the canal leading from the bladder
to the pelvis will cause colicky pains and stoppage of urine, with the gen-
eral symptoms of inflammation of the kidneys. The foreskin may be
affected, causing distress in urination or actual stoppage of urine.
TREATMENT.—The remedies laid down for Inflammation of the Blad-
‘der should be adopted to relieve the disorder, though it can be cured only
by a surgeon who will break or cut the stones, when of sufficient size.
Give soft water for drinking, with linseed-tea or decoctions of mucilage
freely administered. Keep the organs clean, and if sores are found, wash
with a lotion of calendula, one part to eight of water.
BLOODY URINE.
Bloody urine is not uncommon, It may be caused by some of the
urinary diseases before named; blows; strains from heavy loads, jumping
and other causes; the use of
Spanish-fly; foaling; the eating
of poisonous plants, or the twigs
of young trees; very rank herb-
age; swampy pasture; damp
weather; occasionally hot days
and cold, damp nights; anthrax
and other diseases.
Symptoms.— Urine red with
blood, or has clots of blood, the
latter part of a discharge being
more noticeably bloody than the
first. If the kidneys be affected, the horse stands in a singular posture;
if the bladder be involved, the gait is stiff, and more blood passes: than in
Fy
~ ee .
i SSN ci A
A Horse SuFFERING FROM BLoopy URINE.
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THE HORSE—THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 141
kidney-complications. If injuries be the cause, the loins are painful, and
clots of blood pass, with or without urine. If vegetable poison be the cause,
the feverish symptoms of inflammation of the kidneys are present, with
scanty, reddish urine, followed by painful, bloody, burning urine.
TREATMENT.—If the cause be some other disorder, treat that disorder
as directed under the proper section. If a blow about the loins or a strain
be the cause, and blood is mixed with the urine, give arnica internally and
apply externally. Throw cold water over the loins and inject it up the
rectum. Rest should be given. Give aconite for feverish symptoms and
strong urine. Cantharis is needed for forcible, painful efforts to urinate,
with blood or bloody urine passed. Turpentine is desirable for clotted
blood passing from the bladder, and is useful if cantharis fails. Give soft
food; also linseed-tea freely. If hurtful plants be the cause, remove the
horse to another locality.
FOUL.
Foul is a term applied to horses that experience great trouble in
urinating, chiefly in dry, hot, dusty weather. It is caused by a clogging of
the sheath of the penis with dirt and urine. :
Symptoms.—The horse evinces much uneasiness; shifts the weight
from one side to the other; stands with the hind legs apart; makes fre-
quent efforts to urinate, but stops suddenly as if suffering from acute and
darting pains. The urine dribbles away, and is more or less foul-looking
and offensive; the sheath is swollen; the region of the bladder is distended.
from the retention of urine, and is sensitive to the touch.
TREATMENT.—The only cure is in a thorough cleansing of the sheath.
with the hand, warm water and a syringe.
GONORRHEA.
This sometimes occurs in stallions and mares after sexual intercourse,
and sometimes is infectious.
Sypmtoms.—In stallions, swelling and ulcers about the penis; swell-
ing of the testicies and glands in the loins. In mares, swelling and itching
in the vulva and vagina, where vesicles form, followed by ulcers. Either
sex shows a stiff walk; loss of flesh and vivacity; death from putrid fever
or possibly apoplexy.
TREATMENT.—For acute and violent inflammation give five or six
drops of aconite once in three or four hours. After the violence of the
inflammation has been reduced with aconite, give cantharis in its stead..
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142 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
After the action of these two remedies mercurius will usually complete
y p
the cure. After pus has begun to discharge, a wash of permanganate of
potassa may be injected into the urethra, Mix a half-drachm of perman-
ganate of potassa in a pint of rain or distilled water, and use once or twice
day. Keep the parts clean and free from any obstruction.
ABORTION.
Abortion is not common among mares. It is caused by over-exertion
of any kind; strains; blows; falls; very poor and insufficient or very stimu-
lating food; inflammation of the bowels. It occasionally appears to be
communicated by sympathy, similarly to an epidemic.
Symptoms.—The approach is marked by loss of vivacity and appetite;
hollow flanks; sinking of the abdominal enlargement; gradual lessening or
entire loss of the foal’s movements; the breathing grows obstructed; yellow-
ish matter passes from the vagina; straining; expulsion of the foal.
TREATMENT.—When abortion is threatened from fright, strain or
other cause, opium should be given, and the animal be kept at complete
rest. This may be followed by viburnum, prunifolium, caulophyllum, or
cimicifuga, in teaspoonful deses of the tincture every half-hour, hour, or
‘two hours, until all danger is passed. When abortion has taken place and
there is great feebleness, with a copious flow of blood and violent straining,
ergot should be given. Cinchona is good {for restoring the strength after
an abortion. Sabina is needed in case of a discharge of bright-colored or
coagulated blood before or during the abortion. Tincture of camphor has
been successful in preventing abortion when the sexual instinct has been
morbidly susceptible, and when the spasmodic action of the womb has ap-
peared to be the direct cause. A due regard to suitable diet and pasturage,
‘proper housing, bedding, ventilation, cleanliness and exercise will go far in
preventing the misfortune. If an animal has aborted, she should not be
put to the male until after several seasons of heat. Keep mares that are
with foal away from slaughter-houses and decomposing animal matter in
general. Shut away from the smell of the abortion-discharge all animals
that are pregnant, whether mares or not, as it renders them liable to abortion.
DIFFICULT FOALING OR PARTURITION,
The symptoms preceding parturition are quick breathing, swelling
of the udder, with a sudden gush of milk, dropping of the belly, external
swelling of the bearing and adjacent parts, with a shiny, glossy-red or yel-
lowish discharge from the bearing. If these be slow in progress to labor-
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THE HORSE—-THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 148
pains, and the pains and throes be long and violent, or the throes continue
after the expulsion of the after-birth, with great discharge of blood, medi-
cinal treatment is needed. So too, if the labor has been assisted, and if any
laceration of the parts has taken place, that must be treated.
TrREATMENT.— When the pains are too light or subside too much by
spells, give ten drops of pulsatilla every two or three hours. If they are at»
tended with convulsive movements, give ergot, especially if they cease alto-
gether before delivery. Nature has made the best provision for this func-
tion, and the least interference the better, either in medicine or otherwise.
FLOODING AFTER DELIVERY.
After parturition flooding may ensue, either from lack of a sufficiently
rapid contraction of the womb, or ‘from injuries incurred during a delivery,
especially if it has been difficult, prolonged, or has been assisted by an at-
tendant.
TREATMENT.—Put a bandage tightly around the belly; pour cold
water on the loins and inject it into the vagina and rectum. Use arnica ex-
ternally; also internally in alternation with ergot or sabina. Quinine will
assist in recovering strength after the bleeding. Keep the mare quiet, ina
cool, well-ventilated stable, free from draughts.
REMOVAL OF THE AFTER-BIRTH.
If this does not come away immediately after delivery, give a few
doses of ergot. The introduction of the hand or injection of warm water
is not advisable, except in extraordinary cases. If the mare continues to
strain when the after-birth has been removed, give a dose of opium. Asa
preventive of the retention of the after-birth, animals in poor condition
should be fed warm, sloppy food for ten days previous to parturition.
INVERSION OF THE WOMB OR VAGINA.
If the womb should protrude immediately after the expulsion of the
foal, gently place it back, temporarily bind the parts, and give five drops of
arnica every three hours. Keep the animal perfectly quiet and give only
light and nourishing food for two or three days. The vagina may protrude
in a similar way, in old mares or in fillies. It may be caused by general
weakness, or by standing in a stall that is too low behind. Treat as for
inversion of the womb, keeping the animal’s hind feet higher than usual, and
building up the system with the best of food.
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144 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
INFLAMMATION OF THE UDDER.
This disorder may result in hardening, ulceration or mortification of
the udder, and arises from blows on the organ, lying on cold, hard or sharp
objects, cold air, contracting of colds in any way, too hearty food, indiges-
tion, milk remaining in the bag too long, some articles of food.
Symptoms.—General fever; udder hot, swollen, hard and tender in
some part. Then the symptoms may subside and the natural state ensue;
or the swelling may soften and blood and matter be mixed with the milk;
the udder, if tiie trouble continues, may all be hard, permanently useless, or
be full of ulcers; or mortification may set in and part of the organ be lost.
During the progress of the disorder there may be shivering; strong,
quick pulse; rapid breath; constipation; scanty or suppressed urine.
TREATMENT.—Give aconite for fever, in the earlier stages. Bella-
donna is needed if the teat or udder be hot, red, swollen and tender, and the
milk stopped. Phytolacca is very beneficial, especially if used in the early
stages; it will often check the disease, avert ulceration, and restore the
milk. Give five drops in a little meal every three hours, and bathe the
udder with a lotion made of one ounce of the tincture to a pint of warm soft.
water. Mercurius removes the hardness which follows the formation of
pus, and also acts well in the beginning as a preventive of suppuration.
Silicea is desirable if the healing process is slow and ulcers remain. Pre-
vention is the best treatment and may be effected by relieving the gland of
the milk. To do this, apply to the udder camphorated spirits, weak iodine,
or phytolacca-ointment, rubbing long and thoroughly, and draw out the
milk three times a day. A hungry calf may be used to draw the milk.
INFLAMMATION OF THE VAGINA.
This may arise during “heat,” or from blows, copulation, or parturi-
tion.
Symptoms.—lf this occurs during heat, there is a discharge from the
opening, of a grayish-white, then yellowish-white color. In other forms,
the discharge is thin, burning, and often causes much straining. In severe
cases, general fever-symptoms ensue.
TREATMENT.—Keep the parts clean and inject warm water several
times a day. If the discharge continues after inflammation has subsided,
inject hydrastis-lotion, or a lotion of permanganate of potassa, as in gonor-
rhea. For fever-symptoms give aconite; for straining, cantharis; for ab-
scesses or ulcers, mercurius. Injections should be blood-warm, for cold ones
are liable to aggravate the trouble.
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THE HORSE—THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 145
INFLAMMATION OF THE URETHRA.
Inflammation of the urethra may result from a catarrhal condition of
the urinary canal; from the administration of cantharides or croton, or (in
stallions) from frequent copulation. Its symptoms are mattery discharge
from the canal; frequent, painful and difficult urination; perhaps swelling
and ulceration. Treat as for gonorrhcea, which was noticed above.
CONFINED PENIS.
Inability to protrude this organ may result from internal warts or ab-
scesses; from swelling of the sheath; from kicks or blows. The urine may
collect in the folds of the skin and cause swelling and distress, known as foul,
TREATMENT.—Remove ‘warts by tying ligatures around them and
leaving them until they fall off. Abscesses should be fomented with warm
water. If blows or kicks be the cause, give arnica internally and exter-
nally. In other cases, inject two or three times a day between the penis
and sheath warm water or hydrastis-lotion. If foul is the cause, treat as di-
rected under that head in one of the preceding articles.
PROTRUSION OF THE PENIS.
Protrusion of the penis, with inability to draw it within the sheath,
may be due to swelling of the penis after castration, to debility or paralysis
of the organ, the latter being the more usual cause in old geldings, though
it may attend any general debility of the system.
TREATMENT.—If injuries be the cause, give arnica externally and in-
ternally. For feverish symptoms and inflammation aconite and mercurius
are needed. For debilitated organ give quinine and nux vomica. Cold
water injected into the sheath may give relief.
CASTRATION.
This is not the place to give the different methods of performing cas-
tration, as that is left to the operator, as well as the question as to the age
at which it should take place. But it may be generally remarked that if
the animal’s head, neck and shoulders are well developed, it may take place
earlier than under different conditions. Delicate colts should have nourish-
ing food and outdoor exercise for several days previous to the operation,
though no preparation is necessary for the healthy sucking colt. If he has
been weaned, he should not have his usual bulk of food and water for
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146 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
several days previous, but should not be starved. Horses that have been in
training or have been high-fed should rest several weeks previously, their
food being gradually reduced. The disorders arising from castration
should be treated by the veterinary surgeon, though the following directions
can be profitably followed by the general reader:
TREATMENT.—Should the bleeding be considerable, bathe the part
freely in extract of hamamelis every half-hour until the bleeding stops, then
three times a day until the parts are wholly healed. If the sheath be
swollen, it will usually resume its normal condition without treatment; but
if it should not, and the parts become inflamed and tender, with signs of
general fever, give aconite every few hours. If much laceration has taken
place, bathe the parts three times daily with a lotion of a tablespoonful of
tincture of arnica to a pint of water. If lock-jaw, fistula or peritonitis re-
suit from castration, use the treatment for these as given before.
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CHAPTER VIII,
THE EYE AND EAR,
SIMPLE INFLAMMATION OF THE EYE.
(Hs is the most common disease of the eye to which the horse is
a subject, and may affect merely the outer lining, or may involve the
whole structure. Its causes are catarrh, bad food, damp or poorly-
«@? ventilated stables, injuries from a stick or whip, the bite of another
horse, hay-seed, dust, in-growing eyelash, or other mechanical agencies.
Synptoms.—The horse, in apparent health before, has slight symptoms
of fever; the lids of one eye or both swollen or half-closed; scalding tears
run down the face and irritate the skin; great pain caused by the light, and
consequent reluctance to open the eyes. Later, a gummy, thickish,
mucous secretion at the corners glues the lids together; the membrane
covering the balls becomes red and covered with a network of fine blood-
vessels; about the third day the transparent front part of the ball grows
dim and muddy, sometimes in spots, sometimes the whole surface, seemingly
covered: with a bluish-white film; the disease continuing, the transparent.
front of the eye is seriously affected, and the whole eye suffers. In acute
cases considerable fever-symptoms appear.
TREATMENT.—One of the best remedies is aconite, which should be
given at the beginning when the membrane attached to the eyeball is blood-
shot, the eyes are watery, the lids nearly closed, and particularly if feverish-
ness be present. When the inflammation has been reduced by aconite and
the case is yet marked by copious and scalding tears, sensitiveness to
the light, swollen and closed eyelids, red membrane of the eye, and quick-
ened pulse, belladonna should be given, alone, or in alternation with
aconite. Mercurius corrosivus is needed when the secretion in the corners
glues the lids, and when the transparent front of the ball becomes dim or
cloudy. Euphrasia is often useful for symptoms which seem to call for
belladonna and yet have not been removed by its use, or if after the use of
the same for several days the transparent front is still dim and cloudy. The
euphrasia may also be used as a wash.
147
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148 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
In the various inflammations and catarrhal affections of the eyes local
applications are of great value, though caution is needed in their use, especially
in that of nitrate of silver or sugar of lead. Some
cases may require these medicines, but simpler arti-
cles will usually answer all necessities, and are attended
with less danger. When the eye is inflamed and
gives out a mucous discharge, pulverized sugar or
salt, blown into it through a quill once or twice a
day, will often give prompt relief. A wash made of
one part of fluid hydrastia and four of water is excel-
lent. In the general care, examine the eye to dis-
cover hay, dirt, seeds, und other foreign matter which
adheres to the upper eyelid, and is detected by turn-
ing the lid back over the little finger. If a portion
of the front part or of the membrane of the eye has
METHOD OF PROTECT- .
inc THE Eyrs andj Ap- been removed by a blow, a drop or two of castor-oil
PLyINnG Lotions.
or glycerine may be put upon the wound. Keep the
light subdued so as not to pain the eye, guarding -against cold and
. impure air. Many good horses are reduced in value by neglect of seeds or
grit in the eye, however trivial it may seem.
PERIODIC INFLAMMATION.—MOON-BLINDNESS,
The latter of these names is used because the periodic attacks are by
some supposed to occur with the changes of the moon. This disease is an
inflammation of the entire ball of the eye, without any apparent cause
externally, and if neglected is often incurable and ends in total blindness.
It abates, recurs, and may shift back and forth from one eye the other. It
is often inherited, though it may be undeveloped in one generation and
reappear in the next. In these cases it may be promoted, in others it is
caused, by the impure air of close, dirty, dark stables; poor food; cold or
wet; violent exertion, as in running; frequent sudden transitions from a dark
stable to glaring sunlight; undue supply of blood in the system; congestion
affecting the head, caused perhaps by pressure of a collar which prevents
a flow of the blood from the head; changes from cold to warm stables;
also from pasture to high feeding and heavy work; foul litter, which is even
worse than a glaring light; teething; simple inflammation of the eye may
cause it. Damp soils, marshy pasture, and excessive moisture in the atmos-
phere are predisposing causes, especially in horses that are subject to the
disease by heredity. Horses that have soft, lax, flabby muscles, thin skin,
flat feet, and that lack energy in work, are predisposed to it; likewise those
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THE HORSE—THE EYE AND EAR. 149
that have small sunken eyes (“ pig-eyes”). Harness-horses are more liable
to it than saddie-horses, and young ones more than the older.
Symptoms.—F low of tears; lining attached to the ball is red; in the
morning the eye is almost closed and full of tears; eyelids swollen; pain from
the light; great reluctance to allow the eye to be opened; corner of the
eye red; the transparent part in front grows muddy and opaque; pupil
very small; iris dim, speckled with white, covered with lymph, pus or
blood; hot, dry mouth and quick pulse; constipation; scanty urine; on the
third to the sixth day congested blood-vessels run into the edges of the
ransparent portion; later still this naturally transparent portion passes from a
yellowish-white to a greenish or brownish; sometimes the crystalline lens be-
comes opaque and cataracts form; the iris may be affected with inflammation in
frequent attacks and great irritability, though blindness may not soon inter-
vene; occasionally the interior of the eye becomes yellow and muddy, the eye
then shrinking away. In favorable cases the symptoms begin to disappear
from the fourth to the tenth day, the eye becoming healthy, An attack
may last from four days to six weeks, each one being shorter than the pre-
ceding. Apparent recovery is often interrupted by a relapse or change of
the attack to the othereye. Between attacks the eye may appear well, but it
is not; the eyelids may form nearly or quite a right angle; the iris may
remain contracted and lose its luster. An attack will recur upon a return
to the usual food, upon exposure to wind, cold and rain, or upon a return to
a dirty or badly-venti'ated stable. Traces will almost invariably remain
after a so-called cure; hence the importance of critically examining the eye
before purchasing.
TREATMENT.—Aconite should be given in alternation with belladonna
every three or four hours at the beginning of the disease if fever is present,
tears abundant, eyelids swollen, and the eye blood-shot. Continue the
belladonna after the subsidence of the fever-symptoms which demand
aconite, if the membrane of the eye remains red, tears abundant, and local
inflammation stubborn, Throughout the whole attack, until a cure is
effected, apply to the eye a lotion of belladonna, two grains of the extract
to one ounce of water; or bind on the eye a cloth soaked in the same.
Euphrasia has effected speedy cures, used in the same manner as a wash,
and given internally. Mercurius corrosivus should be alternated with
belladonna when the eye is brownish or whitish, and as long as the humors
are dim or the naturally transparent part is opaque. When there is a low state
of the system, with a weakened constitution, and when recurrence is sus-
pected, give arsenicum. Some cases require a general tonic treatment, and
nux vomica, iron, ginger or Peruvian bark will be found useful. Surgical
measures are sometimes necessary, especially for inflammation and hardening
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150 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
of the iris. In the way of general care, keep the stable clean, well drained
and ventilated, and exclude the light. Give good but not stimulating food.
Since recovery is often effected within a very short time after the removal of
the wolf-teeth it has been supposed that that operation is the cause of the
cure, but it has no such virtue or connection. Owing to the hereditary
tendency of this form of inflammation care should be taken in the breeding
to avoid all animals that are afflicted with the disorder.
CATARACT.
An opaque body, white, gray or yellow, fills the pupil, shutting out
the whole or a part of the vision. The lens alone is usually affected, though
sometimes the enveloping sac is also involved. One eye or both may be
affected, generally both, in old horses, in which blindness is usually caused,
growing more confirmed as age advances. If the disorder is caused by
an injury to one eye, the other usually continues sound. The cataract can be
detected by bringing the horse to the light and looking into the eye. The
causes are repeated attacks of inflammation; blows or wounds; imperfect
nutrition, especially in old horses.
Symptoms.—In a good light, in place of a clear, transparent pupil, may
be seen a few white, gray or yellow specks, nearly round, with irregular
edges; or there may be a mass of dull-white matter, half-transparent and
mottled. The cataract may be in the center of the lens and scarcely
ParTIaL CATARACT. CoMPLETE CATARACT,
visible. White streaks may diverge from the center, especialy in old horses.
The lens becomes more convex than before, sometimes hidden by a yellowish
substance which fills the pupil (being then called false cataract). In
confirmed cases the cataract may be seen at a distance; in recent cases it
may be very obscure, when its discovery may be facilitated by enlarging
the pupil by applying atropin to it (a solution of one grain to half an
ounce of water). Besides the appearance of the cataract, its presence may
be suspected from the horse showing an impaired sight, being timid, alarmed
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THE HORSE—THE EYE AND EAR. 151
at objects familiar before, shying at strange vehicles, looking suspiciously at
whatever he meets; and if he sees better in the evening or in a mild light
than in the sunshine,
A whitish-gray speck, or more than one, may form upon the lens of the
eye orits enveloping sac, without any apparent previous inflammation, or
after an injury from the removal of a piece of the front part of the eye.
These are known as “false cataracts.” They may disappear without
treatment, though cannabis is a valuable aid.
TREATMENT.— When cataract is suspected, sulphur and cannabis may
be given to ward it off. When it is confirmed, it can not be cured in the
horse, though the use of phosphorated oil has been followed by good
results. Mix two grains of phosphorus in one ounce of almond oil and
put a drop into the eye once a day for several months. In man it has been
cured by removing the lens and using glasses instead, but this does not
wholly restore the sight, and imperfect vision from removal of the natural
lens will cause more alarm and nervousness in the horse than an inability to
see an object at all. Cataract that is threatened by Moon-Blindness may
be prevented by a proper use of the expedients named for that disorder.
OBSCURED VISION.—AMAUROSIS.
This is a disease of the optic nerve, or the adjacent part of the brain,
causing partial or total blindness. Its causes are excess of lignt; a blow on
the head; injury to the eyeball; tumor pressing against the brain or optic
nerve; apoplexy; bleeding from castration; stomach staggers; pregnancy.
Sym ptoms.—T hese are usually obscure, and generally appear suddenly ;
the horse is cautious in his movements; steps high; stumbles or runs
against any object in his way; throws up his head; moves his ears back-
ward and forward, as if to catch any sound to guide him. On careful
examination the eye stares; sometimes has a glassy appearance; pupil
unnaturally large, and round instead of oblong, contracting slowly, and
not at all in later stages; the iris shrinks to a small band around the pupil.
An unnaturally large, round pupil should create suspicion, and the horse
should be taken to the light and the lids drawn shut for some minutes, then
suddenly opened. If the pupil does not readily contract from the glaring
light, the presence of the disease is at once known. ‘
TREATMENT.—Treatment is usually unavailing. If stomach staggers
or other disease be the cause, that disease should be treated. Since the
disorder is due to nervous affection, remedies which act on the nerves will
be useful in some cases. Strychnia, nitrate of silver, or a blister on the
cheek or behind the ears may be used with benefit.
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152 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
PTERYGIUM.
Pterygium is a thickening of the tissue forming the membrane that
joins the eyeballs and lids, and usually extends from the inner corner
toward the transparent front part. Itis not uncommon among horses that
are exposed to the weather and dusty roads during long journeys. It is
‘caused by heat, dust and wind, as a rule.
TREATMENT.—For inflammation with formation of pus or pus-like
tears, give conium or euphrasia. One-tenth of a grain of nitrate of silver
ground with sugar may be attended with the best results, but it should be
continued for some time. Nitrate of silver is not to be applied as a caustic.
To prevent the occurrence of pterygium, gently wash the eyes with cold
water after a long journey on, dusty roads, first letting the horse cool.
WORM IN THE EYE.
Small worms, nearly an inch long, cylindrical, half-transparent, in size
and color corresponding to white sewing-thread, are sometimes fourfd in
the horse’s eye. The cause is not certainly known.
Symptoms.—Deep-seated inflammation, usually in one eye only; the
membrane joining the ball and lids is very much inflamed and tinged with
blood; the transparent front of the eye becomes cloudy and obscured; closed
eyelids; pain from the light. The worm, on careful examination, may be
seen floating in the aqueous humor, and though it may not occasion acute
pain, it will destroy the eye if allowed to remain many days.
TREATMENT.—A veterinary surgeon should puncture the cornea just
below the center with a lancet or trocar. The aqueous humor escapes, and
usually the worm with it. The humor will collect by the next day, when
the operation should be repeated if the first attempt has not been successful.
: POLYPUS IN THE EYE.
~ Occasionally small polypous excrescences grow on the ball or lids,
sometimes resulting from a slight accidental breaking of the membrane,
sometimes spontaneously. Similar growths may appear on the transparent
front portion of the eye from like causes.
TREATMENT.—The growths should ve removed with a delicate pair
of scissors and the parts from which they are cut be then touched with
some caustic. Any resulting fever may he treated fora short time with
aconite and belladonna in alternation. Use mild washes, as in Simple
Inflammation of the Eyes, which was previously considered.
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THE HORSE—THE EYE AND EAR. 153
ULCERATION AND THICKENING OF THE EYELIDS.
Ulceration of the margins of the eyelids should be treated externally
with causticum, putting five drops of the tincture in an ounce of water and
applying from time to time until the ulcers disappear. An ointment made
of two grains of red oxide of mercury and one drachm of vaseline is
excellent.
Thickening of the Eyelids may be treated by giving internally calcarea
carbonica orsilicea. If it is due to granulations on the inside of the lid, apply
with a camel’s-hair brush a lotion made of one-half drachm of tannic acid
and one ounce of glycerine, using it once a day until a cure is effected.
WARTS AND CALLOUS FORMATIONS.
When such formations appear on the eyelids they should be treated
with nitric acid, mixing ten drops in an ounce of water and applying night
and morning. The mercury-ointment mentioned for Ulceration of the
Eyelids is also good. It may be necessary to remove them with a knife or
caustic.
PREVENTION OF BLINDNESS.
Young horses are specially subject to blindness as a result of hard
driving or work, and one eye or both may be afflicted. Old horses are
similarly affected, but not so frequently. When blindness is feared from
such causes, danger may be averted by putting six drops of Fowler’s
Solution of arsenic on a little sugar or meal, and giving two or three times
aday. Give easily digested food and perfect rest. If the over-exertion
has been continued some time, it may be too late to prevent the blindness;
but in such cases the above remedy may be given in the morning, anda
like dose of nux vomica in the evening for a considerable time.
THE EAR.
The ear of the horse is subject to but few diseases so far as we know.
The external ear may become inflamed as the result of a blow, and be
attended with an abscess which causes pain, and which it may be necessary
to open. When the ear has become so injured, give arnica internally
and apply it externally.
Deafness is not very common, and little can be said of its specific
causes, symptoms or location. Hence remedies can not be named here.
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CHAPTER IX,
THE EXTREMITIES.
FORMATION OF JOINTS.
OINTS are formed of bones which fit each other on uneven surfaces,
the cavities and elevations mutually corresponding, with an interven-
‘J ing smooth, elastic substance, called cartzlage, which prevents fric-
“RX, tion of the surfaces, and relieves the jar that would otherwise occur
from walking on hard roads. This cartilage is covered with a fine “ syno-
vial” membrane which secretes an albuminous and oily fluid that acts as
oil to prevent friction. Strong flexible substances, fibrous in texture, called
ligaments, are the chief bonds to hold the parts of the joints together.
Some joints are further strengthened with tendons and muscles. Small
closed sacs, called “ bursz mucose,” situated between the surfaces of the
joints, secrete a fluid similar to that furnished by the synovial membrane
named above, to which membrane they are similar in structure.
SYNOVITIS.
Synovitis is an inflammation of the synovial membranes. The in-
flamed membranes do not exceed a certain size,do not burst, and do not he-
come well without treatment, but may remain in the same condition for
years. It affects the knee, fetlock (then called “wind galls,’ which see),
but generally the hock (then called “ bog spavin” and “ thorough-pin,”
which see). Among its causes are exposure to cold and heat; sprains;
friction of joints from quick work on hard roads; rheumatic fever.
Symptoms.—Lameness immediately followed by swelling of some
joints (not of the surrounding fibrous texture, as in rheumatism); a fluid
exudes from the joint, at first usually serous, without the marked fever
which attends the beginning of muscular rheumatism; later, lymph es-
capes and the joint is permanently enlarged, or less frequently the joint
becomes stiff and immobile, baffling all treatment.
TREATMENT.—Aconite is the most effectual remedy, both internally
154
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES. 155
and externally, to reduce inflammation and prevent effusions from the joint,
or any structural damage to the joint. Continue it as long as fever-symp-
toms or local pains remain. After the second or third day the aconite will
probably have reduced the active symptoms, leaving the swelling of the
joints and slight lameness; in this case give bryonia. Bathe the affected
joints three times a day, a half-hour each time, with warm water; then ap-
ply to them, when they are dry, one-half ounce of arnica in six ounces of
water, well rubbed in. It is said by good authority that veratrum viride
is superior to this, applied with a brush five or six times a day to the joints.
BOG SPAVIN AND THOROUGH-PIN.
Bog Spavin is a soft, elastic swelling on the front of the interior part
of the upper hock-joint, where the ligaments lie far apart. It is not at-
tended with the acute inflammation which marks synovitis. It may be
constitutional, but is usually caused by over-work in traveling or in the
harness, especially in young horses, which causes friction of the joints and
the effort of nature to supply relief from an increase of the joint-oil.
Symptoms.—Enlargement on the front and inside of the hock, where
there is naturally a depression, sometimes with stiffness, but seldom lame-
ness; this is generally soft and elastic, but may
be hard and inelastic in old and severe cases, in
this case producing lameness. The vein pass-
ing over the hock may be pressed by the swell-
ing and thus distended with blood, in which
case the disease is sometimes distinguished as
Ma,
Baer eae: blood spavin, and destruction of the vein has Footie
been very unwisely recommended. .
Thorough-Pin is an enlargement of the dack upper part of the hock,
and results from long-continued or excessive exertion, especially on hard
roads, and may be caused bya sprain. It generally co-exists with bog
spavin, with similar symptoms, except that in thorough-pin the swelling
may extend to both sides of the joint, and the inclosed fluid may be easily
forced from one side to the other.
TREATMENT.—In ordinary cases it is scarcely necessary or wise to at-
tempt atreatment of what nature has done to obviate the ills of the friction,.
as it may cause no marked inconvenience; but should it interfere with the
proper action of the joint by growing large, and produce Jameness or in-
flainmation of the synovial membrane, foment the joint three times a day with
warm water; then arnica-lotion (one ounce of arnica ina pint of water)
should be rubbed into the swelling three times a day. In about a week.
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156 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
apply a similar lotion of rhus in like manner. In long-standing cases
pressure is the best treatment by far. This is best applied by a truss made
specially for the purpose; but in the absence of one, a wet chamois-skin
bandage may be bound firmly to the swelling, and a piece of lint put un-
der it, the latter being wet with glycerine twice a day. Blisters are of no
avail, but lameness has been removed by firing the affected parts.
BONE SPAVIN.,
This is a bony deposit on the inner and lower parts of the hock-joint.
At may be hereditary, a malformation of the joint existing at birth, though
in this case the natural defect often does not cause lameness. The more
common causes are galloping in heavy ground; slipping on smooth sur-
faces; long draughts; sudden throwing of the horse on the haunches; calks
‘on the outside of the heel, without corresponding ones inside.
Symptoms.—tin the early stages the enlargement may not be detected,
but the horse does not bend the hock, and shows pain if the joint be
pressed; hops on the toe of the affected limb when turned around or put
in motion; snatches the toe up, as in stringhalt; drags the
limb; after a while, if not at first, a small bony tumor may
be felt on the inner and lower front part of the joint by
rubbing the hand over the joint and comparing it with the
joint of the sound leg examined in a similar way. Lame-
ness may disappear with rest, though subsequent trotting
will renew it; but this gradually leaves upon work. The
Bonz S eo :
onmeravl® inside of the hock is unnaturally heated. In later stages
inflammation of the ligaments, depositions of cartilage or bone, and per-
haps disease of the interior part of the joint, are added, when the lameness
increases, and is worse when first brought from the stable, diminishing
with motion. If the tarsal bones become stiff, the horse loses condition and
seldom lies down.
TREATMENT.—Turn the horse loose in a stall for about a month.
Give rhus internally three times a day, and rub into the affected part a
lotion of one part of strong tincture of rhus to eight of water. If a dep-
osition of bone has formed, use the following:
Iodine, 1 drachm.
Todide potasse, 2 drachms.
Sulphuric acid. 2 drachms,
Palm oil, 4 drachms.
Mix.
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES. 157
First shave off the hair, and then smear this preparation thickly over
the swelling with a thin, broad knife, or a flat piece of wood. While
using this preparation, keep the head tied up for twenty-four hours. Do
not clean the hock or remove the scurf which will appear in two or three
days after the application is made. In from two to three weeks the same
dressing may be made, a third usually not being required.
CURB.
Curb is an enlargement at the back part of the hock, three or four
inches below the point, resulting from a sprain of the ligaments connecting
the bone which forms the point of the joint with the larger bones below.
A fluid is effused: into the tissue, and depositions of bone are sometimes.
formed. Horses are called “cow-hocked” when the ligament is kept
constantly stretched, thus making curb more liable to occur. It is rare in
old horses, usually occurring between breaking and the eighth year. The
main causes are galloping in heavy ground; leaping; ordinary work-horses.
predisposed to it from birth; running over hills.
Sympioms.—Soft, hot, tender swelling on the back and upper part of
the shank-bone, which soon becomes hard and difficult of treatment; lame-
ness. The head of the smaller bone of the shank is in some horses nor-
mally large, but the enlargement is hard and bony all the time, being thus
easily distinguished from curb, in which the swelling is more or less elastic.
TREATMENT.—Raise the heel of the shoe to rest the ligaments. Give
rhus internally three times a day, and apply rhus-lotion externally by pressure.
To secure pressure on the hock, make a case of strong cloth to fit the joint,
cutting a hole to fit the top of the bone forming
the point of the hock which will sustain the
case, lacing the front part together by tapes on
each side; about two inches from the edge of
the opening made for the point of the hock
make a slit of proper length to admit the full
width of the bandage with which the pressure
is to be secured. This case is only to prevent ,. Ppa Rus:
the bandage from slipping down from the joint. FOR Cus.
Take the bandage (chamois-skin is the best, as it retains moisture longer
than flannel) and the case, slip one end of the bandage through one of the
slits, passing it from the zzside of the case outward, then from the outside
izxward through the opening at the hock-point, and finally ow¢ward through
the second side slip. Draw the bandage through so as to bring the other
end inside, near the first side-opening, make the end fast there, put on the
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158 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
case and fasten the tapes in front. Now wrap the long loose end of the
bandage upon the parts requiring pressure, having under it a pad of
cchamois-skin, saturated with a half-ounce of arnica mixed with a half-pint
of water. Keep the bandage wet with cold water. When the inflamma-
tion has subsided, rub in a lotion of one ounce of rhus to a half-pint of water.
The following are other methods of treatment, either of which may be
used, though obviously two can not be used at the same time: (1).
Moisten the hair with a tincture of acetum cantharidum, applied with a
brush, then rub the part dry. Do not repeat this for several days, and use
no fomentations after it. (2). A favorite remedy is one drachm of mercu-
rius corrosivus and one ounce of spirits of wine, applied with a soft sponge,
but not rubbed in. It may be repeated in ten days, if necessary. (3).
‘One drachm of bin-iodide of mercury with one drachm of axunge may be
rubbed in for a few minutes every day for ten days. Firing is usually
cruel and unnecessary, but it not only removes lameness, but also prevents
areturn. It may be used when all remedies fail to give a permanent cure.
WIND GALLS OR PUFFS.
Around or near the joints are little sacs supplying the tendons, which
are composed of membrane much like the synovial, which secretes small
‘quantities of an oily fluid. If the tendons be sprained or their action be
much increased, nature increases the secretion and thus produces a soft,
elastic tumor known as wind gall or puff. The cause is usually a sprain of
the tendons, or excessive or long-continued friction of the joints from quick
work on hard roads. Low, marshy pastures seem to produce a tendency
to an enlargement much like that resulting from over-exertion.
Symptoms.—Soft, elastic swellings near some joint, as the fetlock, hock
or knee, generally the first, at the start as large as a small nut, but finally be-
coming much larger, and growing harder; absence of inflammation and
lameness. The swellings may occur among the tendons
and ligaments on the interior part of the leg below the knee,
a little below the front of the joint, or on the upper back
part of the joint. These swellings do not contain wind, as
once was believed, but an oily fluid, and generally cause no
harm. Occasionally, however, the increase of the fluid may
cause inflammation, which extends to the lining membranes
of the sheath of the tendons, very tender, puffy swellings ap-
pearing above the usual seat of wind galls; the inflammation
thickens the membrane, and the fluid in the sacs changes from a straw-color
and becomes suffused with blood; lymph may collect; the tumors become
Winp-GaLts.
w
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES. 159
firm and hard to the touch, and in old horses like bone, interfering with the
action of the tendons and causing lameness.
TREATMENT.—Wind galls seldom cause lameness; hence it is usually
not wise to treat them. If lameness ensues, however, it generally results
from a sprain of the tendon or a joint, and will be removed by a chamois-
skin pressure as directed under Bog Spavin. Should this fail to remove
the lameness and swelling, foment the part a half-hour morning and even-
ing with warm water, dry well, and then rub in a lotion of one ounce of
thus to one pint of water. Should the wind gall be very large, axd mot
connected with the joint, it may be punctured with asmall trocar on its
upper surface, and the fluid be pressed up and out. A compress and band-
age must then be applied to close the sac and exclude the air, and not be
removed for two days. After that time, place over the wind gall a piece
of lint soaked in glycerine, with oil-silk and a bandage over it. Renew this
dressing night and morning. Keep the horse in a loose box, not taking
him out for ten days or two weeks, and omitting all work for a month.
ULCERATION OF THE JOINT CARTILAGE.
Inflammation of the synovial membrane sometimes extends to the car-
tilage covering the ends of the two main bones of the joint, diminishing
the secretion, causing ulceration, wearing away of the cartilage, and polish-
ing of the surface of the bones, thus giving rise to what has been erro-
neously called porcelain deposit.
TREATMENT.—Remove the hair and apply, with a thin, broad knife
(not rubbed in), a preparation made on the following formula:
Todine, 2 drachms.
Iodide of potassa, 1 drachm.
Sulphuric acid, 2 drachms.
Palm oil, 1g ounce.
Mix.
Repeat the application in about three weeks, if the cure is not complete.
CAPPED HOCK.
This is usually caused by a kick, but may arise from an injury to the
tendons at the point of the hock, as when horses injure themselves in lying
down or getting up.
Symptoms.—An elastic, generally movable, swelling at the hock sud-
denly appears. It is of two kinds: (1). A mere bruise of the skin may
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160 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
cause an effusion of serum into the tissue. (2). The synovial sac may be
enlarged from an injury to the tendons. In the first kind, the enlargement
may be easily moved about and is limited to the point of the hock; in the
second, the enlargement remains fixed and is more deeply seated, the en-
larged sheath being felt either above or below the point of the hock, with
more tenderness and inflammation than in the first kind.
TREATMENT.—In new cases, foment the swelling three or four times.
a day with warm water, dry thoroughly, and rub in about a tablespoonful
of a lotion made of one-half ounce of tincture of arnica in
six ounces of water. As soon as the inflammation subsides,
use in place of this lotion one made of a half-ounce of rhus
in five ounces of water. When the swelling is not deep and
is very large, without involving the true joint, the wpper
surface may be punctured by a surgeon with a small trocar,
the fluid be pressed up and out, and diluted calendula be in-
jected and pressed out in two minutes. Then apply a band-
age as directed under Bog Spavin. If the pressure be omitted, the fluid
will collect again and again.
CaprEp Hock.
SPRAIN OF THE HOCK.
The tendons and ligaments of the hock are all subject to spraius rrom
leaping, or galloping in heavy ground. The ligaments connecting the
bones of the joints are specially subject to implication in sprains, and the
disease will readily submit to proper treatment if taken in time; but the
trouble is often not detected until inhammation has destroyed the elasticity
of the ligaments, the latter becoming cartilaginous or bony. The symp-
toms are heat and swelling in the joint, some stiffness and lameness. The
treatment is local, such as is applicable to general Sprains.
CAPPED KNEE.
This is caused by striking the knee against some hard body; by heavy
falls; by thorns or other foreign bodies in the knee.
Symptoms.—The symptoms are a soft, elastic swelling
on the front of the knee, with an absence of pain on
pressure, except in case of a foreign substance being the
cause.
TREATMENT.—If a thorn be the cause, remove it. In
Extarcement al recent cases, with inflammation, give frequent warm-
iw Carrep KNEE. ater fomentations. Arnica-lotion, one part of the tince
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES. 161
ture to twelve of water, should be rubbed in twice a day. In chronic cases,
use a liniment made on the following formula:
Liniment of soap, 8 ounces.
Camphor, 1 drachm.
Liquor ammonia, I ounce.
Mix.
Apply daily with friction until a scurf appears on the parts.
SPRAIN OF THE KNEE TENDONS.
When a sprain of any of the back tendons of the knee occurs, the
fibers being lacerated, a swelling appears on the back part of the leg, which
is tender on pressure, and at first hot and inflamed, becoming afterward
hard, and sometimes ossified. The unsteady gait, wavering of the knees, in-
clination to lie down,and other symptoms will be easily recognized. Such
sprain obviously makes the horse unfit for substantial service.
TREATMENT.—Immediately after the accident which causes the
trouble has occurred, apply a chamois-skin bandage to the swelling and
keep it wet with cold water. Should effusion of fluid have set in, with in-
flammation, put on a flannel bandage and bathe over it frequently with
hot water during the day; at night placing on six or eight folds of lint
saturated with arnica-lotion (one tablespoonful of tincture to a half-pint of
water), covering the whole with oil-silk and a bandage. When inflamma-
tion subsides under this treatment, foment for a half-hour night and morn-
ing, dry the leg, and rub in a mixture of a half-cunce of rhus and a half-
pint of water. Give rest and a loose box. At the beginning, put on a
high-heeled shoe to relieve pressure on the tendons. Further treatment is
indicated under general Sprains. The sinews may be contracted, render-
ing a division of the tendons necessary by a surgeon.
BROKEN KNEE.
Broken knee is a term applied to an injury imposed by a fall or striking
the knee against some hard and sharp body, resulting in a bruise, a break of
the skin, or a division of the tendons or membranous sacs of the joint.
Symptoms.—The skin may be simply bruised and not broken through,
when the knee will be hot, swollen and painful. Or there may be a rubbing
off of the skin, or it may be cut, torn and jagged, the lower tissues being
injured, the sheath of the tendon also being exposed. Sometimes a fluid
issues from the wound.
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162 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
TREATMENT.—Should there be simply a bruise, apply warm fomen-
tations until the inflammation subsides. If the swelling then continues, rub
on daily a liniment made as follows:—
Soap liniment, 4 ounces.
Camphor, IZ ounce.
Liquor ammonia, I ounce.
Mix.
If the skin be lacerated and bleeding, remove all grit by forcibly
dashing water on the wound, or forcing it on with a large syringe. Then
if the joint is not open, or the tendon not cut through, gently dry the wound
by dabbing it with a soft rag or sponge, and powr on (not apply with a
sponge) a little lotion six times a day composed of one part of the tincture
of arnica to twelve of water. If the skin lies in a flap on the leg, the
wound must be sewed up, but loosely enough to allow the swelling which
will take place. In such cases only should a bandage be used for broken
knee. Though it may be made of linen or flannel, it is better if made of
chamois-skin, kept wet constantly with warm water after it is applied.
Put the bandage on evenly, with light pressure, and leave it for a week,
except as it gets loose and requires readjustment. A splint eighteen inches
long and three wide should be fastened against the back of the joint to
prevent the tearing out of the stitches. Ifthe formation of pus is inevitable,
foment the wound and put on a poultice of carrot or turnip, zever of bran.
This is best applied by drawing a woolen stocking over the knee, fastening
it around the leg below the joint with tape, then filling in the poultice and
fastening the stocking above. Repeating the poultice twice daily for two
or three days will usually be sufficient, unless the granulation is excessive,
when it should be sprinkled with finely powdered sulphate of zinc, 7f dt
rises above the level of the skin. In afew days the skin falls off, and, if
the “skinning over” has not taken place, wash the part three times daily
with a lotion composed of two drachms of sulphate of zinc, two drachms of
acetate of lead, and one pint of water, thoroughly mixed.
CAPPED ELBOW.
This is caused by mechanical injuries from insufficient bedding; lying
on rough, hard surfaces, as paving-stones; a shoe pressing on the elbow while
the horse is lying down.
Symptoms.—A swelling, similar to that in capped hock, on the point
of the elbow, which is at first elastic and movable, full of fluid, but later
growing hard, or of a fibrous or cartilaginous character.
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES. 163
TREATMENT.—Foment and apply arnica-lotion, following up with
rhus-lotion night and morning. If the swelling is not thus removed, a sur-
geon should pass a seton through it; or make an opening with a small
trocar, remove the fluid, and then inject a lotion of calendula and water, one
part of the tincture of calendula to four of water. Keep the horse tied up.
In a day or two, should the fluid again collect, the surgeon may probe the
swelling and apply a lotion of calendula to ward off fistulous results. If
there be considerable inflammation, foment often with warm water.
SPRAIN OF THE STIFLE-JOINT.
Such sprain-is uncommon, but its symptoms are plain, being a swelling
at the joint, so near the surface that it is easily felt; pain on pressure; heat;
unwillingness to move the hind leg, which is dragged along in trotting.
TREATMENT.—Apply fomentations of warm water often and rub in
arnica-lotion night and morning. After the subsidence of inflammation
leave off the fomentations and rub in camphorated ammoniacal soap
liniment until a mild blistering occurs, and a cure will result after a few days
of rest. The formula for the liniment is given under general Sprains.
SPRAIN OF THE FETLOCK-JOINTS.
Sprain of the fetlock-joints is sometimes located in the ligaments of the
joints, but more commonly in the tendons behind and in front of the
joint. Thesymptoms are swelling; lameness; heat; tenderness on pressure.
TREATMENT.—Bandage the swelling and keep up warm-water fomen-
tations, followed by cold water. After inflammation subsides put on a
chamois-skin bandage saturated twice a day with one part of rhus to eight
of water. For other expedients, see general Sprains.
BREAKING-DOWN.
Breaking down is an actual rupture of the ligaments in the back part
of the leg, above or below the fetlock. Any sprain of the back tendons
receives the same name. While running the horse suddenly stops, bends the
leg and rests it either on the fetlock (in real rupture) or on the toe (in
sprains).
Symptoms.—In ordinary sprain, as stated above, the toe rests on the
ground after the horse has suddenly stopped on a run, or the leg is held off
the ground. In rupture of the ligament, the fetlock yields, and in extreme
cases the leg rests on the heel and fetlock, the toe turned upward off the
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164 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
ground, The horse may lie down, and sometimes hops on three legs. At
first there will be much pain, quick breath and pulse, and other signs of
fever and excitement.
TREATMENT.—Put on a high-heeled shoe for use when the foot is
down. Put the horse in slings, and bind on firmly a chamois-skin bandage
with a flannel bandage over it. Constantly apply warm-water fomentations
for several days, not removing the bandages oftener than is necessary. In
about ten days cold salt-water may be applied often to remove inflammation ;
then use other remedies as named under general Sprains. Give aconite
oe
ype fea a3
> fe,
fe
SLING FoR USE IN Breakinc-Down.
three times a day. Bran-mashes and grass are the best diet. The part will
always be deformed and the horse will never be fit for any but slow and
light work. The above treatment is designed especially for cases of actual
rupture of the ligaments. That for sprains of the tendons should be the
same as that given for Sprain of the Knee Tendons (which see).
SPLINT.
In this disorder the cartilaginous ligaments joining the large and
small bones of the shank are converted into bone, and the process may
extend to other parts if inflammation continues. It generally appears on the
inside of the fore leg, but may affect any part of the shank-bones. Its
causes are sudden or long-continued strain, causing inflammation of the liga-
ments; blows; putting yourg horses to work for which their partial develop-
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES. 165
ment is not suited; sometimes marks of splint are hereditary. It may
result from inflammation of the sheath of the bone.
Symptoms.—Before the bouy deposit there will be pain on pressure of
the part affected; perhaps lameness, diminishing with exercise; later, a
bony tumor, usually on the inside of the leg close to the
knee, or half-way between the knee and fetlock; in case of
lameness, there will be increased heat and tenderness in the
tumor.
TREATMENT.—Give rhus internally night and morning
in the early stages when there is inflammation of the carti-
laginous tissue previous to the conversion into bone; in this
case lameness is generally present. Iodide of potassa may
follow rhus with good results, five to ten grains being given
twice a day in water. In connection with the above reme-
x 5 . VARIETIES
dies apply a lint-compress, wet in cold water and covered or SPLINT.
: eee : High Splint.
with oil-silk and a bandage; or foment twice a day, and as , Tow Splint. 3
often rub in a lotion of one ounce of rhus in one half-pint eae
of water, ed Splint.
Only in the early stages, when the tumor is forming, will internal
remedies be of any avail. When the splint is confirmed and the remedies
already named have failed, shave the hair from the tumor and with a thin,
broad knife, or a flat piece of wood, lay on a thick coating, without rubbing
it in, of the following preparation:
Todine, 2 drachms.
Caustic potash, 2 drachms.
Sulphuric acid, 2 drachms.
Palm oil, IZ ounce.
Mix.
Apply as directed, keeping the horsc’s head tied up for twenty-four
hours, and further treatment will be unnecessary, except that in some cases a
repetition of this application will be needed in ten days or two weeks.
In place of other remedies, sixty grains of corrosive sublimate may be put
in one pint of water and rubbed in night and morning until the skin gets
scurfy and tender. After discontinuing it for a day or two, rub the part
with oil and thoroughly wash it with soap and water; then apply again.
In rare cases the surgeon may be compelled to open the skin just below
the splint, introduce a knife with a convex edge, turn the edge downward
when the knife reaches the splint, and make two or three cuts in the sheath
ofthe bone. Then further treatment is unnecessary, except the care needed
for cuts in general.
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166 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
BRUSHING.
Horses with defective formation of the legs and those which are badly
fed are subject to brushing, which consists in a foot striking the opposite
fetlock, or the part above this, usually on the hind leg.
TREATMENT.—If there be swelling and soreness, apply cloths saturated
in arnica-solution to remove the enlargement and inflammation. Then care-
fully strap around the joint a leather or India-rubber boot (a woolen boot
turned down over the joint will answer, though not so well). If the horse
has been poorly fed, strengthen the constitution by nutritious food. Give
perfect rest until the bruise is healed. A repetition of the injury may
sometimes be prevented by putting feather-edged shoes on the hind feet,
though they are useless on the fore feet. This throws the joints farther apart.
In cutting of the fore feet, make the shoeing perfectly level, carefully rasp-
ing off the part which strikes. It may, however, be necessary to use a boot
all the time.
SPEEDY CUT.
Speedy cut occurs during rapid action, usually in horses with poorly-
shaped legs, and is caused by one or both feet striking the opposite fetlock
or the part above it. The pain is so much greater, and the shock to the
“system so much more severe, that it is a more dangerous trouble than
brushing. It causes the horse to suddenly fall, with the rider, at high speed.
A small bare place, partially covefed with hair, will be found on the inside
of the shank-bone; perhaps a cut, scab, or break in the skin. In bad cases
the sheath of the bone and the bone itself may be swollen,
TREATMENT.—The treatment is the same asin Brushing. Usually,
however, a boot must be made with a pad on the inside, reaching down to
the fetlock from the knee and held in place by buckles.
OVER-REACH AND TREAD.
e
A wound made on the back part of the crown of the front foot by the
hind foot is called an over-reach. One made on the corresponding part of
the hind foot by a horse traveling behind is cailed a fread.
TREATMENT.—Owing to the peculiar organism of this part of the
horse a cure is rarely effected, yet the possible serious nature of such
wounds calls for strict attention. Any portion of the skin or horn that may
be detached should be removed with scissors and the wound be cleansed
and dressed with compound tincture of aloes and myrrh put on soft tow,
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES. 167
and bound on the wound. Leave this on two days; then it may be
changed every day until the cure is effected. Avoid poultices and fomenta-
tions, except in cases of neglect, after pus has formed, when fomentation
is advisable, with calendula-lotion applied. Long neglect may lead to quittor.
QUITTOR.
Quittor is an ulcer in the foot, usually on the inside, with an opening
on the crown between the hoof and hair. It is caused by neglected or
badly-treated over-reach or tread; by a prick in shoeing, nail, or other
sharp substance, which sets up inflammation, with matter pushing itself up
to the crown; by pus from corns; injuries of the feet in general. It re-
quires prompt and good treatment to prevent ulceration of the adjoining
cartilages,
Symptoms.—Lameness; heat; pain’ in a swelling found in the bulb of
the heel or some part of the crown just above the hoof, where a little
matter oozes out; by removing the horn some parts are found changed in
color, with matter that is black and offensive.
TREATMENT.—Let out the matter when possible and inject calendula-
lotion, one part of the tincture to four of water, into the tumor night and
morning; then wrap the foot in a warm turnip or meal poultice. Rasp
the wall of the foot under the conical swelling or crown until it springs on
QUITTOR BEFORE Pus BREAKS TuROUGH
THE CROWN. QuITTOR AFTER Pus BREAKS OvuT.
pressure of the finger. After inflammation is reduced, discontinue the poul-
tice and merely dress the sore on the crown with the calendula-lotion.
Either remove the shoe or use the bar-pattern, cutting away the lower por-
tion of the hoof of the affected quarter so it can not rest on the bar. In
long-standing cases, the discharge having become thin and greenish, the
best injection is made of five grains of corrosive sublimate and an ounce of
water, repeated daily until a cure is made. Before pus forms the injury
may be removed by bathing the affected part in arnica-lotion, one part of
the tincture to four of water, at first every three hours, then twice daily
until all traces of the disorder have disappeared.
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168 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
NAVICULAR DISEASE.
The navicular bone is behind and below the lower bone of the pastern
and above the coffin bone of the hoof. Diseases of this bone lead to many
forms of obscure lameness. The bone may become contracted as a result,
and this contraction has been erroneously considered by some the cause of
the disease. The main causes are strain of the tendon that passes over the
bone downward to the coffin, over-exertion, or long-continued work on
hhard roads, by which the sac between the tendon and the bone becomes in-
flamed and its oily fluid is stopped, leading to ulceration of the bone and
membrane.
Symptoms.—The horse stands with legs extended, putting the weight
on the toe, the heel being lifted; perhaps the fetlock is bent, the toe thrown
forward and stuck into the ground; !ameness; heat; tenderness of the foot;
SECTION OF THE Foot AND PASTERNS.
A, Coffin Bone. B, Navicular Bone, the seat of Navicular Disease. C, Coronary or Lower Pastern
Bone. F, Cannon or Shank Bone. G, Horny Frog. H, Sensitive Frog. K, Sensitive Sole. L, Horny
or Sensitive Sole. M, Outer Wall or Crust. N, Laminated Leaves or Horny Plates. O, Sensitive
Lamina or Plates, the Chief Seat of Founder.
lameness diminishes with exercise; pressure in the hollow of the pastern
gives pain; tendon usually a little larger than is natural. After the dis-
ease has run some time, pressure of the thumb on the hollow of the heel
causes pain; the inside quarter of the foot becomes straighter, and ridges
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES. 169
form on that part of the hoof; the foot and the sole grow more concave;
the horn increases in quantity; thrush may form; tenderness at the point of
the frog; perhaps fungoid granulations.
TREATMENT.—First remove the shoe and pare the sole until it yields
under the thumb; then put the foot in a poultice kept wet with warm
water. Ina few days leave off the poultice and keep the animal standing
in wet yellow clay in the day, putting wet swabs and pads on the feet at
WAR ae z
~A\) Te ae
POSITION OFTEN ASSUMED IN NAVICULAR DISEASE.
night. %ze sand is good to cover the floor of the stable with. After in-
flammation has subsided, and in old, confirmed attacks, blistering is good,
but a seton passed through the frog by a surgeon is better, leaving it in four
weeks and bathing night and morning with warm water. If granulations
form, touch them with caustic. Give five drops of aconite every four hours
to aid in reducing inflammation. A similar dose of rhus is desirable when
a sprain of the tendon is suspected. When inflammation of the cartilages
is supposed to exist, ten drops of phosphoric acid in a little water three
times a day is advisable. Should all the foregoing fail, it may be necessary
for the surgeon to separate the nerve to deaden the sense of feeling.
FOUNDER.—FEVER IN THE FEET.—LAMINITIS.
These terms are applied to inflammation of the tendons, ligaments,
muscles, bone-extremities and tissues of the feet (see cut 168), It is caused
by traveling on hard roads when the horse is fat or otherwise unprepared
for quick work; standing in the water when the animal is much heated, fol-
lowed by a chill; standing a considerable time tied up; fever; inflammation
of the womb; inflammation of the lungs, or other constitutional trouble; ex-
cessive food.
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170 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
Symptoms.—Shivering, followed by sweats; quick, full pulse; heav-
ing flanks; short, quick breathing; lifting the feet in alternation, or fre-
quently lying down and rising; animal fixed to one place, with back arched
and hind legs under the body; if one attempts to lift the well foot, the
animal crouches low or falls, and when down lies at full length; groans3.
looks toward the affected feet; crown hot and pained by slight blows.
TREATMENT.—Remove the shoes; cover the floor of the box with
sawdust, put straw on it, and encourage the horse to he down; thin the
sole and apply a poultice made of turnip, or, still better, yellow clay, first.
taking out all small stones or grit, keeping the clay wet by pouring cold
water upon it. Ina few days the shoes may be tacked on (as may be done
from the beginning in mild cases), and wet felt pads and swabs be put on.
If the horse be allowed to stand, these poultices and cloths may be omitted,
and the feet be put in some vessels containing warm water, the temperature
being raised gradually as high as the hand can well bear. Arnica tincture,
in five times its quantity of water, may be used as a lotion to bathe the
ankles and legs every three hours; or the feet may be put into vessels con-
taining the lotion; or cloths may be saturated in it and wrapped around
the pastern of the affected legs, tow similarly soaked being put into the soles,
As an internal remedy, give five to ten
drops of aconite every hour or two in
a little water for very hot feet, especi-
ally at the crown; great lameness;
horse unwilling to move, lies down,
groans, standing with the hind feet
drawn under the body; fever; quick,
-full pulse; frequent breathing; hot
mouth. Give arnica, as directed for
aconite, for founder from wounding
the feet in fast or long drives on hard
~ roads, and for stiff legs and inflamed
Veucorar POSITION wee AeutE feet. Give arsenicum for founder from
LAMININS: excessive food; feet very tender and
painful; and when aconite has reduced the primary violent sy mptoms.
Phosphoric acid is very important for lameness, hot and tender feet, and
softening of the horn, Nux vomica is good for loss of appetite; abdomen
drawn up; paralysis of muscles. When fever or inflammation arises in the
feet without any assignable cause, wash them thoroughly with tepid water
to remove dirt and other foreign matters, and apply tincture of arnica in the
earliest stages, before ulceration ensues, or when some other affection is
threatened. Give mild, easily digested food and cooling drinks.
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES. 17k
CHRONIC FOUNDER OR -LAMINITIS.
The acute form of founder, or laminitis, which has been described above,
may lead to a chronic type, and this is to be dreaded.
Symptoms.—Feeling of lameness, though not actual lameness, in both.
fore legs, which are unnaturally warm; tapping the front legs causes pains
the animal lifts his feet but little in walking, and puts his heels upon the-
ground; the sole becomes flat or convex; the crust breaks easily; more:
lameness with a weight on the back than when the animal is led on a trot..
TREATMENT.—If no inflammation be perceptible, internal remedies.
are useless; but if it be noticed before the tissues lose elasticity, or the foot:
becomes changed in appearance, give rhus three times aday. Keep felt.
pads on the feet; apply to the crowns of the feet cloths soaked in rhus-lo-
tion. Feed mashes and green food. Favorable results will be experienced.
by removing the shoes and turning the animal into a large stall, the floor’
being well covered with sawdust or fine tan-bark. If the foot becomes:
again elastic, work on soft ground may be done, but a very short walk on
hard ground will produce inflammation. A thin layer of rubber or leather
between the shoe and hoof will do much to prevent a return.
PUMICED FOOT.
This is a flatness or convexity of the sole, with a soft, spongy horn-
growth, the middle of the front part of the hoof being depressed. It is a
result of founder.
TREATMENT.—It is incurable. Relief may be given by putting on
a broad-webbed shoe, with gutta-percha or leather under it. Where the:
crust is much lower than the sole, a thick shoe with a narrow web is better,
a piece of gutta-percha the breadth of the heel of the shoe being put next
to the crust to raise the sole from the ground. Require only slow work,,
and that with very much rest. Dress the sole daily with hot tar.
SEEDY TOE.
Seedy toe arises often without an assignable cause, thought it may fol-.
low founder, or result from dirt or gravel working in at the edge of the
sole, or from the clip of a shoe pressing on a hoof that is deficient in cohe-
sive power, from blows, as from too hard hammering, and other means of
violence. ;
Symptoms.—The horn at the toe crumbles off like sawdust or rotten
wood; an opening leads up between the outer and inner crusts of the walk
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12 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
of the hoof, sometimes going as high as the crown; tapping on the wall
with a hammer determines the extent of the separation. Difficulty may be
found in getting a piece of horn sufficient to hold a nail, and
side clips may be necessary.
TREATMENT.—Cut away the crust so far as it is
separated from the underlying layers of horn, and wrap the
foot in tow and tar, bound on with tapes; a mild blister at
the crown will hasten the growth of the wall. Another
A Hoor AFTER : : i
Remova. or a successful plan is to keep the horse standing in clay after
SEEDY TOE. P : . ‘ * :
covering the foot with adhesive dressing, not blistering at all,
THRUSH IN THE FEET.
This is an offensive discharge from the frog, resulting from an inflam-
mation of its sensitive parts. The discharge may be scanty or free, and if
the disease be neglected, it may result in injury to the soles, frog and heel,
causing canker (see under Canker). It is caused by contraction of the
hoof; keeping the foot wet with urine; frequent use of cow-dung for stop-
ping up the frog; dirt or moisture in the frog; bruises.
TREATMENT.—Remove all portions of the bone that are detached or
run under; in case of much lameness or inflammation, apply warm poul-
tices to the feet for two or three days, afterward putting into the cleft of
the frog tow steeped in a lotion of one part of tincture of calendula to
three of water. If the heels be contracted and high on the front feet, tips
are the best expedient for producing a healthy condition. It may be neces-
sary to get leather soles for horses that are in the habit of standing in their
dung. If there be no lamenesss or contraction of the hoof, an application
of calomel, in the powder, to the affected parts, will usually effect a cure.
If, however, it be considered dangerous to stop quickly the discharge, do
not use. calomel, but put eight ounces of tar or treacle and one ounce of
pulverized sulphate of copper in a ladle and let them simmer until a red-
dish-brown color appears, and apply a small amount every second day on
tow to the cleft of the frog. A lotion of one part of carbolic acid to
twenty of water is deemed the best of all remedies by good authorities, the
inflamed part being bathed’ with it. Creosote, ten drops internally four
times a day, is useful for healing the part and correcting the bad state of
the constitution. Given internally, with an external use of carbolic-lotion,
it is excellent. Phosphoric acid, given as directed for creosote, is desirable
when inflammation of the deep tissues of the foot is threatened. Give
light and nutritious food, not stimulating, with rest and a perfectly clean
stable.
«
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES, 173
CANKER IN THE FEET.
Canker ir. tne feet often results from neglected thrush, the inflamma-
tion extending from the horny frog to the horny sole, when a fungus-
secretion forms, The coffin bone may be affected. Its causes are the same
as in thrush—long-continued moisture, especially with decomposition and
heat. In some cases it may be constitutional, or it may follow grease.
Symptoms.—Where horn is removed from the sole, fungous growths
appear, covered with a whitish, offensive matter. In other parts the horn
is discolored, with a dark-colored fluid underneath. When the disease has
run some time, the whole frog and sole may be ulcerated.
TREATMENT.—Freely expose the diseased parts by removing all dead
or detached pieces of horn. Put ona shoe with a plate to cover the frog,
attaching this plate to the toe by a hinge, and to the heel by a bar or two.
screws; this shoe furnishes pressure to the frog, which zs all-important,
and makes dressing possible without removing the shoe. A substitute is
gutta-purcha heated in boiling water and slipped under the shoe. This can
be taken out and put in without removal of the shoe. In most cases the
morbid growth will be stopped and healthy horn grow by giving Fowler’s.
Solution of arsenic three times a day internally, with an external use of
carbolic acid applied with pressure. The most certain remedy is a caustic
(nitric acid, sulphate of copper, carbolic acid or tar) applied under the
shoes made as above described, putting tow under the iron or gutta-percha
sole to secure pressure. The caustic-dressing may be repeated every two
or three days until the horn becomes healthy. When only a thin, watery
discharge is seen, chloride of zinc, two grains to one ounce of water, or
calomel in powder, applied daily, will usually suffice.
CORNS.
A corn is a very sensitive, fungus-like growth of horny matter and
granulations of a reddish color between the horny sole and sensitive part
of the foot, generally at the inside of the sole of the fore feet. In some
cases a pus-like matter forms under the sole, or breaks out at the crown as
in quittor. It is caused by contraction of the hoof or pressure from bad
shoeing.
Symptoms.—The angle between the bars and crust is of a dark-red.
color, soft, fungus-like, painful, and perhaps attended with lameness.
TREATMENT.—For much inflammation and formation of pus, remove
the bars and other means of pressure, and apply at least twice a day arnica-
lotion, one part of the tincture to four of water. In most cases it is suffi-
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174 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
cient to lower the heel so as to remove the pressure of the shoe, then to cut
away the corn as far as possible and dress it with muriate of antimony, put-
ting ona bar-shoe. If the horse has strong feet, it may suffice to cut
away the bars, put on tips without cutting down the heels, and dress witn
‘muriate of ammonia. For riding-horses do not use bar-shoes, but thicken
the shoe a little, or spring it at the heel. A three-quarter shoe has been
used in such cases with great benefit and comfort to the horse.
SANDCRACK.
Sandcrack is a fissure or partition in the hoof, usually at the inside
‘quarter of a fore foot, or in front of a hind one. Its chief causes are dryness
and brittleness of the hoof from an injury to the crown-surface, or from
a lack of the gluey matter which binds the fibers, the latter cause being
common in warm, sandy countries.
TREATMENT.—Remove all pressure of the shoe beneath the crack, a
bar-shoe being the best in most cases. Arnica-lotion will relieve pain and
lameness, and an application of powdered blood-root will check the appear-
ance of proud flesh. Should the sensitive layers of the hoof be squeezed
by the crack, resulting in lameness, thin down the edges of the horn at the
crack and foment the foot frequently until all inflammation subsides. The
SANDCRACK DRESSED AND CuRVED OR ANGULAR A Foot witH ToEz-SANDCRACK,
SHop. FissURES FOR CURE OF BANDAGED WHEN WoRrK Is RE-
SANDCRACK. QUIRED.
‘crack should be closed as soon as possible, and prevented from extending up
to the crown. To this end, clean out the crack, rasp its edges thin, take a
sharp, red-hot firing-iron, and if the sensitive layers be not exposed, run it
slightly down into the crack until it causes a gluey discharge, which will
hold the sides together. Then make short horizontal fissures nearly
through the horn, one above and one below the crack, and cover them and
the whole wall of the hoof with shoemaker’s wax, bound on with broad
tape, to keep the edges of the crack together, to exclude moisture and dirt,
and to protect the new horn as it grows from the top downward. The
treatment may necessarily be long, but if carefully observed will effect a
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES. 175
cure. Another method is to draw the crack together and put over it a cap
made of thin steel, secured by small screws introduced into the hard horn.
of the hoof. This and the use of a bar-shoe will be effectual.
FALSE QUARTER.
This consists in a separation of the horny fibers of the foot, similar to
that in sandcrack, which produces lameness and weakness in the affected
heel. Its causes are injury to the crown in quittor; treading of the horse
on his inside quarter; treading on the outside by another horse; other ex-
ternal causes.
Symptoms.—Deficiency of horn in the side of the hoof, or a fissure,
generally with a horny bottom; in some cases, exposure of the sensitive
layers, which become inflamed, attended with oozing of matter or blood,
and lameness.
TREATMENT.—In the absence of inflammation, rasp the quarter until
it springs under the thumb; put on a bar-shoe ¢hat does not press on the
affected quarter. Take the horse from ‘
work and apply a blister to the crown;
or fill up the fissure with an adhesive
dressing, as tar, pitch, or heated shoe-
maker’s wax, putting broad tape over
the whole. When the fissure is open at yy, S"QuINGSurr-
the bottom and blood or matter oozes out, QUART
rasp the quarter thin, put on a bar-shoe, and bathe the foot with hot water
and a lotion of calendula during the day, a tablespoonful of the tincture of
calendula to a tumblerful of water; at night, apply dirt wet in the same
lotion, and upon it a linseed or turnip poultice. If work be required when
the crack is open, fasten on lint and calendula-ointment with tapes.
a
FALSE QUARTER.
SORE SHINS.
By this term is meant a disease which is primarily an inflammation of
the covering of the front part of the bones from the knee to the fetlock.
It occurs most often in young horses, and results from concussion incident
to fast work.
Symptoms.—Inflammation of the sheath of the bones below the knee,
followed by bony matter in small knobs, sometimes in layers, on the knee,
TREATMENT.—Rhus-lotion, one ounce of the tincture to fifteen ounces
of water, should be applied several times daily, and ten drops be given in-
ternally every four or five hours. This will arrest if not cure the trouble.
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176 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
RINGBONE AND SIDEBONE.
Ringbone is a bony enlargement on the pastern-bone just above the
crown, finally surrounding the bone. Szdebone is a like enlargement at
the back part of the crown of the foot, either inside or outside; the name
is also applied to ossification of the elastic wings of the bone of the foot,
which causes a change in the structure, reducing or destroying the elas-
ticity, and producing lameness. Sometimes both disorders exist at
once in the same leg, especially in heavy draught-horses, destroying all
action save in the fetlock. The hind legs are less often affected than the
fore ones, though all four may be attacked at the same time. The chief
causes are a false step; a dislocation; a blow; great strain on the ligaments
of the joints; perhaps hereditary weakness of the fibers and ligaments.
Symptoms.—iIn ringbone, a hard, unyielding enlargement of bone
above the crown of the foot; in s¢dedonze, a similar growth a little lower;
pain from motion; affected parts in first stages hot, tender, perhaps swollen;
occasionally great throbbing of the arteries.
TREATMENT.—In the first stages, for pain on motion, hot, tender,
swollen parts, or for throbbing arteries, give aconite internally, and apply
it externally by saturating a linen rag in dilute tincture—one part to six of
water—binding it on and keeping it moist until inflammation wholly disap-
pears. A lotion of rhus, one ounce of tincture in fifteen ounces of water
applied several times a day externally, a teaspoonful of the same dilution
being given internally every four hours, is beneficial. In the early stages
this will cure ringbone. A lotion of corrosive sublimate, sixty grains
dissolved in one pint of hot water, is highly recommended. Rub it in until
the skin gets thin and scurfy, that is, for a few days; then discontinue a
day or two and rub the parts with oil and wash well with soap and water.
After this rub it on again. Put ona bar-shoe, the bar resting on the balls
of the frog, and pare the hoof so as not to rest on the shoe. Continue the
use of this shoe when work is resumed. Considerable time is required.
HOOF-BOUND.—CONTRACTION OF THE HOOF.
These terms are applied to a contraction of the foot, which may be
natural, and which may be aggravated if not independently caused by
defects of shoeing; leaving the shoes on too long; too much paring; neglect
Cc
c—)
in providing moisture by pads for the soles; excessive litter lying all the
time in the stall; slow inflammation of the fleshy parts and bone-coating
near the horny surface ; irregular and insufficient exercise, with rich or
excessive feeding.
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES. 177
Symptoms.—lIf it comes on suddenly, lameness occurs at once; if
gradually, lameness comes on slowly; shuffling of the feet, or very slight
lifting of them; repeated stumbling; narrow heels (especially the inner
one) of the fore feet; the affected foot while the horse stands is placed
forward; both feet being affected, this position is taken by them alternately ;
occasionally the foot is pinched up so as to offer little surface to the ground;
sometimes marked hollowness of the foot, obscurity of the sole, and the
clefts of the frog nearly invisible; retraction and indentation externally
between the crown and crust, generally midway between them.
TREATMENT.—Regular exercise, plenty of moisture properly applied
with pads to the foot, careful fastening of the shoes, with frequent changes
of the same, will prevent further development, and correct the trouble.
OPEN JOINTS.
The pastern, hock, knee, and stifle joints are liable to be opened by
blows, falls, sharp-pointed instruments and other mechanical agencies.
SLING FoR OPEN JOINTS.
Symptoms.—Joint-oil, like the white of an egg, is discharged; in a
day or so swelling and fever; pain; perhaps lock-jaw, or permanent
stiffness of the joint.
TREATMENT.—Keep the horse quiet so the joint is not in action. If
the opening be large, or when it isin a large joint, as the stifle, put the
horse in slings. Ten drops of aconite every three hours should be given
if there be much pain and fever. The greatest difficulty, aside from
‘
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178 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
keeping the horse quiet, is to close the opening and stop the discharge,
Various expedients are resorted to. In slight cases the white of an egg,
beaten well and applied to the opening, may stop the oil. When the
opening is large, one part of calendula tincture to three of water is better,
and may suffice. Perhaps the best, as well as the simplest, method is to
apply to the opening with the handle of a spoon fresh finely-powdered,
slaked lime, putting it on every time the oil appears, both day and night,
never removing one coat, but putting every ftew application upon the old.
In some cases the only effective means is the sewing of the wound, leaving
a chance for it to swell without tearing out the stitches.
In open knee-joint, cleanse the wound thoroughly, cut off with scissors
the cut parts which will eventually slough off, and stitch up the wound,
after which it may be well to apply the white of egg, spread on a cloth
and bound with broad tape. Keep the horse’s head tied up so he can not
lie down. In about a week remove the bandage and cleanse the wound,
not removing the coagulum in the opening, and keeping water out of
zt, After the discharge stops apply one part of calendula to eight parts
of water four times a day or oftener. The knee may be kept at rest by a
gutta-percha splint, twelve inches long and four wide, first softened in
hot water, then fitted snugly to the irregularities of the back part of the
leg, and secured by bandages around the leg above and below the knee.
A small opening may be made in the front to admit applications for the
wound. Though for all large openings the slaked lime is the best applica-
tion, powdered sulphate of zinc, corrosive sublimate, collodion, and cotton-
wool have been used with marked effects. A strong decoction of butternut
bark is very effectual. The diet should consist of green food and bran-
mashes.
PRICK IN THE FOOT.
Prick in the foot arises from the smith driving a nail so as to injure
the sensitive parts of the foot; from the animal picking up a sharp stone,
thorn, piece of glass, nail, or other sharp body, which in some cases enters
the toe, wounds a joint, and lets out joint-oil.
Symptoms.—lf the cause is a nail in shoeing, the horse may flinch at
the time, or may go lame the next day, being pained if the hoof be tapped
with a hammer; lameness; hot and tender foot; sometimes a black, pus-
like discharge issues from the wound when opened; the sole probably
“ under-run.”’
TREATMENT.—Make a free opening for the matter to escape; bathe
the foot for a half-hour in warm water; pour in a solution of calendula, one
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THE HORSE—THE EXTREMITIES. 179
part to six of water, and put ona poultice of turnip or linseed-meal, con-
tinuing it as long as matter forms. When the pus stops, tack on the shoe
and keep on the foot a felt pad wet with water, applying the calendula-
lotion twice a day. If work be required before horn has covered the wound,
use a leather sole and tar. Clean out the hole by cutting away the horn,
put in tar, and burn with a hot iron. This will both keep out the dirt and
cure wounds that result from pricks of nails, tavrns, and the like.
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CHAPTER X.
GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES.
SIMPLE FEVER.
q) IMPLE fever has various causes: Sudden changes from heat to cold»
especially when the system is reduced by too much exercise; bad
food and air; great changes in the weather; shedding the coat,
3° which is a very common cause; indigestion, constipation, and vari-
ous other constitutional derangements,
Symptoms —A very common symptom is a staring coat, with cold
legs, perhaps with a shivering fit and trembling of the muscles on the
shoulder-quarters and flanks; the animal yawns, hangs his head, and seems
unwilling to move; the pulse weak, variable, and not much increased in
frequency, and the appetite lost. In the second stage, the coat is smooth
and the shivering fit is succeeded by a higher temperature throughout the
body, sometimes increasing to sweating; but generally the skin is hot and
dry, as well as the mouth and all of the internal organs, especially the mem-
brane lining the alimentary canal, causing costiveness; urine scanty, high-
colored, and difficult of passage; pulse and breathing hurried; the animal is
restless, frequently lying down for a short time, shifting his legs often,
dropping his ears, and being generally listless and indifferent, though he
will plunge his nose into cold water and hold in his mouth water to cool
his tongue, which may seem to be red at the edges and point, the center
being white and perhaps creased. Should the pulse continue small and
quick, and the breath and dung offensive, typhoid fever has set in, and to
the article on that the reader is referred. If the symptoms remain strong
and not relieved for some length of time, any organ inherently susceptible
to weakness will suffer functional and organic derangement, and the disor-
der is called “symptomatic fever.” This is usually due to excess of riding,
driving, heat or feeding, though it is also caused by injuries about the joints
and feet, and frequently attends rheumatic troubles. Free feeding ina warm
180 e
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‘Th
Caries of the lower jaw.
Fistula of the parotid duct.
Bony excrescence or Exosto-
sis of the lower jaw.
Swelling by pressure of the
bridle.
Poil-evil.
Inflamed gland.
Inflamed jugular vein.
Fungus tumor, produced by
pressure of the collar.
Fistula in the withers,
EXTERNAL MARKS OF DISEASE.
10, Saddle-gall,
1t.. Tumor of the elbow.
12. Induration of the knee.
13. Clap of the back sinews.
14. Mallenders.
15. Splint.
16, Ring-bone.
17. A Tread upon the coronet.
18. Quittor.
19. Sandcrack.
20. Contracted or Ring foot of a
foundered horse.
181
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21, Capped hock.
22. Mallenders,
23. Spavin,
24. Curb.
25. Swwelled sinews,
26. Thick leg.
27. Grease.
. A crack in front of the foot,
called cow-crack.
29. Quarter-crack,
30. Ventral hernia.
31. Rat-Tail.
182 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
stable immediately after the horse has come off of pasture may cause dis-
orders of the digestive organs which will terminate in this fever, and inflam-
mation from local injuries, if not immediately reduced, may affect the whole
animal, giving rise to a form of fever which is alarming and should be
carefully treated, while the simple form need cause no uneasiness unless the
affection take a local seating.
TrREATMENT.— When the coat stares, or the animal shivers, yawns,
hangs his head, and is unwilling to move, and the pulse is small, if these
‘symptoms are not the result of over-fatigue, aconite should be given every
‘twenty minutes, until the shivering fit is succeeded by the hot stage, when,
if the pulse is full and quick, and the body hot or sweating, it may be con-
tinued every fourth hour. Symptoms for aconite are also restlessness,
short, painful, anxious breathing, much trembling, burning, dry mouth,
red. eyes and nose, great thirst, dry, hot skin. Belladonna is often useful
when aconite does not wholly relieve the symptoms for which it was de-
signed. After the shivering fit, if the pulse should remain weak and not
much increased, the dung hard, and the urine yellow, or white and turbid,
nux vomica should be given every four hours. Ammonium causticum is
needed when, in addition to the symptoms calling for aconite, we also find
extreme exhaustion; listlessness; short and difficult breathing; restlessness
even when lying down; very cold ears, nose and legs; sweats; heaving
flanks, at which the animal occasionally looks in a despondent manner;
pulse ninety to one hundred, yet small, feeble, and quite indistinct; no
passage of dung. Give bryonia if there be great weakness and unwilling-
ness to move; hard and quick pulse; short and painful breathing, attended
with catching at the sides and a grunt; pain on pressure of the ribs; fre-
quent shaking and shivering; great thirst; sweats at night; scanty urine;
constipation. Arsenicum may especially be used when the animal is re-
covering. In the way of general care, instead of corn frequently give warm
bran-mashes in small quantities. Sustain the strength, when declining,
with a drench of a quart of gruel. If diarrhoea sets in, treat it with cold
water and flour as a drink. When drinking-water is given, make it tepid.
Clover and timothy are desirable when there is no purging. Arrowroot in
a little wine is good for the weakness in the later stages of fever. Use
additional clothing and wrap the legs in flannel if they are cold. Keep
the stall cool. If it be very cool weather, the temperature should be about
55° F. Provide plenty of clean bedding. After the fever the animal may
have a short walk, and gradually take his accustomed food and work. For
constipation an occasional injection of warm water will be advantageous.
Remember that a feverish condition often attends a specific disorder whose
treatment is requisite to the cure of the fever.
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 183
TYPHOID FEVER.
This form of fever is quite common among horses. It is indicated by
offensive breath and evacuations, quick, small pulse, black tongue, and loss
of strength from the first. Among its causes are atmospheric influences,
as improper ventilation, with lack of regard to general hygiene. In cold
weather it is usually traced to the closing of all inlets for fresh air, by which
the blood is deprived of the requisite oxygen. Thus the organs which
supply and purify the blood and conduct the circulation are deranged and
their fluid has undergone those damaging changes which are familiarly
known as “poisoning of the blood.” It seldom continues a great time
without being complicated with other disorders connected with some part
that is specially involved, as the throat or stomach. It may also arise from
contagion in unhealthy stables, or even in apartments that are wholesome
and well ventilated.
Symptoms. shivering fit, followed by a coldness of the skin and ex-
tremities; small and quick pulse; scanty and high-colored urine; the bowels,
at first constipated and the discharges covered with slime, become relaxed,
the discharges being offensive; the nasal membrane is of a dark-red color or
leaden, and sometimes a red serum may be seen trickling from it; the tongue
is red at the edges, but the middle is a dirty-white, with a brownish streak
down the center; offensive breath. Should the disease prove fatal, cold
clammy sweats will cover the body, violent diarrhoea or dysentery ensuc,
and then death will soon take place.
TREATMENT.—Ammonium causticum may be given every third hour
if extreme debility be present and the surface of the body be cold; it is also
an excellent remedy when the fever is of a putrid type and the breath is
very offensive; in some cases it is best to alternate it with mercurius corrosi-
vus. Nux vomica is needed for sudden decline of strength, abdominal pains,
quick and feeble pulse, fluttering of the heart, cold extremities, and spasm
of the muscles of the pharynx and gullet; it is especially useful when the
body is warm, the pulse quick and feeble, the urine scanty and high-colored,
and the bowels constipated, a dose every two hours being suitable. If
diarrheea sets in, with swelling in the sheath and legs, arsenicum should be
given; the same is particularly useful for such a condition in the later stages
when there is great prostration, and when abscesses of a malignant charac-
ter form about the head and other parts of the body. When dysentery comes
on, with bloody discharges from the bowels, mercurius corrosivus should be
used instead of arsenicum, every two hours until the blood disappears from
the discharges, the arsenicum being then resumed. The best diet consists
of arrowroot and gruel, in drenches of a quart at a time if the horse will
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184 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
not voluntarily take them. Soft bran-mashes, boiled oats or barley, oil-
cake, and the like, may be given in small quantities. Insure pure air and
water, perfect cleanliness and warm clothing, until health is restored.
s
SCARLET FEVER.
Scarlet fever is marked by scarlet spots on the mucous membrane of
the nose and lips, varying in size from a pin-head toa pea. In this dis-
order patches of hair stand up on different parts of the body. It is both
simple and malignant.
Symptoms.—The symptoms of the sémple form, which usually sets in
from the third to the sixth day of epidemic catarrh, are elevated patches of
hair on the neck and legs, in some cases confined to the hind legs, which
exist without any elevations on the skin below; swollen limbs; pulse some;
times considerably increased, sometimes but little; scarlet spots on the mucous
membrane of the nose, occasionally in only one nostril; any soreness of
the throat previously existing in catarrh may or may not be greatly in-
creased. At this stage the horse may be cured by judicious treatment in
a dry, comfortable stall; but if left in unfavorable circumstances, a malig-
nant form of this fever or other disease will probably set in, endangering
the animal’s life. The malignant form may appear with violence at once,
or may succeed the simple type. The horse for some days has apparently
been affected with influenza or catarrh, with severe sore throat, cough,
poor or no appetite, general weakness, and watery discharges from the
nostrils; then the condition suddenly changes, the limbs become swollen
throughout, or in lumps which are many and large, hard, painful and hot;
and portions not swollen have elevated patches of hair; the nostrils dis-
charge a mixture of blood, serum and watery or foul matter; the throat
becomes intensely sore; the spots on the membrane of the nose become
large, and of a deep-scarlet color; the cough grows worse and suffocating;
the pulse is weak and feeble, often running up to go or 100 per minute;
the swollen limbs are very sensitive, and the animal, if not disturbed, will
stand perfectly still for hours. As the disease grows worse, large blisters
will appear on the limbs, mainly around the joints, which burst and give out
a bright, transparent fluid that is very irritating to the surrounding surface.
Sometimes the extremities, the ears for example, will appear white, the
skin of the part shrinks and is dry and hard, the whitened parts breaking
off in a day or two, and leaving a raw surface which gives off a watery
discharge. The appetite is gone, constipation ensues, and the urine is
scanty and of a brown or yellow color. Within a day from the beginning
the membrane of the nose has large spo‘s of a purple color which presert
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 185
a raw and watery surface—like changes taking place in the blisters around
the joints.
Under favorable circumstances the simple type will abate about the
fourth or fifth day, but the malignant form generally runs seven or eight
days before a change takes place. In extreme cases the purple spots may
be seen under the skin and in the mucous membranes, and this condition be
followed by an emaciated and loathsome appearance of the animal. When
the scarlet blotches or elevated patches of hair appear early, and the pulse
has a firmness and regularity in its beats, the result will probably be favor-
able; but slight hopes of recovery can be entertained if there be much
weakness, a feeble and irregular pulse, a change of the scarlet blotches to
purple, a swelling of the head, and a typhoid type in the fever.
TREATMENT.— When the throat is the chief part affected, when the
swelling of the limbs comes on suddenly and is hot and painful, and when
the blotches on the nasal membrane are of a bright-scarlet color, bella-
donna should be given. If the throat is relieved by belladonna, and the
legs are still swollen, hot and tender, rhus will be found useful. Should
the soreness of the throat not be relieved by belladonna, or should spread-
ing sores of an unhealthy character appear on the skin, administer mer-
curius. When marked weakness and emaciation ensue, and the pulse is
quick and yet hardly perceptible, the legs, sheath and breast becoming
dropsical, the appetite lost, the animal showing a great indisposition to
move, arsenicum will prove efficacious. Should the soreness of the throat
persist in spite of the remedies named, apis and arsenicum in alternation
will probably afford the desired relief. In the malignant type, when there
is a marked tendency to a breaking down of the organic structure, and a
bleeding of the mucous membrane, with a bloody and purulent discharge
from the nose and swelling of the lips, arnica and arsenicum should be
given in alternation, the doses being four hours apart.
SMALL-POX.
This is an eruptive disease which attacks the lips and face of the horse,
but mainly the heels, in the latter case being distinguished with difficulty
from grease. It is of an epidemic nature, and any constitutional derange-
ment may promote it during its prevalence.
Symptoms.—irritative fever, growing worse as the disease advances;
irregular red spots, singly or in clusters, more or less elevated, on the red-
‘dened parts of the skin, chiefly on the inner side of the fore legs, on the
belly and between the thighs, becoming day by day more numerous and
more elevated, and forming minute tumors which grow pale and discolored,
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186 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
about the fifth day, with lymph on the surface which thickens and is first
white, then yellowish, when the top becomes flat or depressed. In froma
week to ten days the tumors begin to dry, but the process will be retarded
by the presence of sores if the skin has been severely rubbed. During the
whole time previous to the drying process, new tumors will be forming,
but these gradually disappear as the drying sets in, leaving brown spots
which finally pass away. A few bare spats remain at last (occasioned by
severe rubbing), upon which the hair does not grow. If great offensive-
ness of breath, sweat and dung be noticed afterward, sudden indications of
inflammation of the lungs may be suspected, such as hissing and rattling
‘breathing; copious, yellowish, thick matter in the nostrils; violent cough;
discharge of thick, yellow, sticky phlegm from the mouth, and the like.
TREATMENT.—Though this may not require special treatment, it is
advisable to give aconite every three hours at the outset if there be much
fever. Antimonium tartaricum is beneficial for all stages, including the lung-
difficulties so often attendant—four drops once in three hours. Give ar-
senicum, six drops every three hours, for prostration, purging, tendency to
sloughing, and inclination of the system to sink to a low state.
MUMPS.
This disorder is occasionally found among horses, and is an inflamma-
tion of the large salivary glands behind the margin of the lower jaw, and
behind the ears. The large glands within the lower part of these salivary
glands are often affected too, when strangles
occur. They are caused by exposure to
wet and cold, or result from some disease of
the air-passages.
Symptoms.—Fever, thirst, sore throat,
cough, loss of appetite, difficult breathing,
pain in swallowing, and at times flow of
saliva. The glands: swell, are hard and
painful, and impede breathing.
TREATMENT.—Mercurius is the main
remedy, and is usually sufficient; put the
Seat Or MuMes. powder upon the tongue dry, after having ~
a, Large Salivary Gland; 4, the Duct of ")
the same; ¢, d, ¢, f, 4, Muscles of Mastica- sponged any undue saliva from the mouth.
vie Belladonna should be given alternately with
mercurius if local inflammation is severe, or the brain is affected. If there be
much fever, use aconite. Foment the glands with hot water three times a
day, and apply hot bran poultices, always wiping the part dry after fomen-
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THE HORSE—-GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 187
tation or poulticing. If suffocation is threatened, ice should be used freely
externally, and small pieces be put into the mouth. In extreme cases of
suffocation it may be necessary for a surgeon to open the windpipe.
SORE THROAT.
By this is meant an inflammation of the back part of the mouth,
usually coming on from a like affection of the larynx. It is of common
occurrence in horses which are put upon work with unusually good food,
and in those which are taken from outdoor life and put into warm and
poorly-ventilated stables, this change reducing the system and so making
the animal liable to cold when exposed in severe weather.
Symptoms.—A cold comes on with fever, thirst and loss of appetite,
followed by quick breathing; external swelling of the throat; dry, hard
cough; salivary glands swollen, hot and tender; difficulty in swallowing,
drinking-water perhaps escaping from the nostrils during attempts to swal-
low-it; the mouth afterward gives out a frothy fluid; the cough becomes
loose and discharges come from the nose.
TREATMENT.—Good general care is often all that is needed; but if it
be a severe case, active measures should be taken, because there is a danger
that the inflammation will extend to the bronchi and so produce bronchitis.
Aconite given in ten-drop doses af first will often effect an immediate
cure. The advanced stages, marked by more settled inflammation, swollen
and tender glands, stringy saliva, discharges at the nose, and difficult and
painful swallowing, require belladonna, ten drops every four or six hours
being suitable. Mercurius may be given in doses of ten grains of the
powder every three or four hours, alternated with belladonna, when both
remedies seem to be indicated. The following has often been beneficial:
Extract of belladonna, 4 drachms.
Tannic acid, 1 drachin.
Bi-sulphite of soda, 4 drachms.
Syrup, 5 ounces.
Mix.
Rub on the back teeth a piece as large as a hickory-nut two cr three
times aday. In case of external swelling and tenderness, use hot fomen-
tations on the throat three times a day, with hot-bran poultices following.
Steam the nose as in Catarrh. Keep the stall well ventilated and give
oil-cake or oatmeal gruel and cold water. Remember that foul air in the
stable, as from poor ventilation, putrid and urine-soaked dung and litter, is
a prolific source of sore throat.
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188 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
INFLUENZA.—EPIZOOTIC.
Under these names we shall treat influenza in general, so interpreted
as to include the epizootic scourge which raged so widely and so fatally in
this country in 1872, and has appeared in less violent forms at different
times since then. By treating the latter we cover the field of the former.
That this influenza is borne from one place to another by diseased animals
can scarcely be questioned; but that it is also communicated by the atmos-
phere admits of scarcely more doubt. During its prevalence the human
family has been afflicted with a disorder so similar to it that many have
thought that man can take it from the horse. :
Symptoms.—The symptoms are numerous: First, loss of appetite;
then the horse becomes indifferent in manner; fever, with rapid weakening;
quick, soft, weak pulse; short, dry, catarrhal cough; breathing sometimes
Tt
&
beat
My
H
bi
A CASE OF CONFIRMED INFLUENZA.
hurried, sometimes difficult and painful; signs of pain during a fit of cough-
ing; the nose and mouth show a yellowish-red mucous membrane; mouth
dry and hot, with drooping lips; the eyes have drooping lids, and are sunken,
with inner membrane of lids yellowish-red; swelling and dryness of the
eyes and nose; swollen throat; skin dry and hot; coat staring in severe
cases; heaving flanks; scanty, high-colored urins; costiveness; dry dung;
sometimes cold extremities. Soon the pulse is more rapid and weak; the
cough becomes looser but more pronounced; the membranes of the eyes,
nose and mouth discharge an irritating fluid, afterward becoming thick,
stringy and mattery; the eyelids swell and tears flow; the mouth fills with
frothy, very offensive mucus; even swallowing water is sometimes pain-
ful; loud, frequent and painful cough; increasing weakness; slimy evacua-
tions; external swelling at the angle of the jaws and between the jaw-bones,
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 189
causing pain in swallowing. Though these symptoms may not all be ob-
served, all cases will show more or less dullness and lack of energy, with
staggering gait and dragging legs. The nasal discharge, at first thin and
scanty, becomes thick, yellowish or greenish, and blood-stained, perhaps
coming away at irregular intervals in chunky masses, even in enormous
quantities, sometimes filling up the nostril and occasionally giving off an
offensive odor, the sense of smell in the animal being impaired or wholly
lost. Should pneumonia or bronchitis ensue, the horse braces the fore feet,
trembles, and breathes with increased difficulty. Some of these symptoms
may be more prominent at some times and places than at others. At any
rate, the animal is rendered unfit for service for a considerable time, even
after the symptoms have subsided. Any chronic complaint will be aggra-
vated by this disorder; temporary blindness may result; there is a liability
to serious inflammation of the bronchial tubes and other vital parts; hence
the urgent importance of careful attention from the beginning.
TREATMENT.—/i/d cases require rest, a warm, light, dry stable,
thoroughly clean, blankets being used if necessary to keep the animal
warm, wet feed, exercise, not faster than a walk;
but medicine is unnecessary. In aggravated cases,
select from the following remedies according to
the symptoms. Zhe first day or two, for short,
dry cough, quick, strong pulse, quick, short breath-
ing, shivering, thirst, loss of appetite, uneasiness,
thin, transparent mucous discharge from the nostrils,
give aconite in ten-drop doses every two hours. As
the disease progresses, belladonna will be found
valuable for drooping head; languor; dull eyes;
short, dry cough, made worse by pressure on the
windpipe; thick, white discharge from the nose.
It should give place to another remedy when the
cough becomes loose and the nasal discharge yel-
lowish. Ammonia carbonate is needed for inflam- rn
mation of the nasal membrane, either dry or with TREO NOSE:
a discharge, which may be bloody; stoppage of the nose; sore throat;
languor; dry cough, especially at night; swollen throat. The remedy is
especially good for over-worked horses. Arsenicum is an invaluable remedy
if there be great debility; burning, corroding nasal discharge; dry cough,
made worse by cold air, and more pronounced after midnight; dry mouth;
thirst, with little water taken at a time; profuse watering of the eyes; fever
worse after midnight. It is indicated too in case of languor, restlessness,
short breath, with panting, much weakness, and in the later stages is de-
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190 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
manded by cold extremitics, with dropsical tendency. Tonics are often
necessary, and nux vomica will give relief if there be profuse nasal dis-
charge; drooping head; languor; repeated dry, hard cough, worse from
trotting, and often attended with passing of wind from the bowels; weak-
ness; trembling; cold legs; lying down mucn, It is usually better to’ give
this in alternation with arsenicum, at intervals of three or four hours, or
with quinine in five-grain doses. Phosphorus is especially suited to cases,
after the primary symptoms, in which the nasal discharge is profuse, thick,
greenish, and perhaps offensive; the cough dry, hollow, hoarse and pain-
ful, made worse by dust, cold air, strong-smelling urine, or pressure on the
windpipe; rapid loss of flesh; lung-complications. If very stringy, thick,
white or yellow mucus be discharged from the nose, or expelled by cough-
ing, give kali bichromicum every one or two hours, one grain ground into
sugar until thoroughly mixed being a suitable dose. The bowels should
be kept free with bran-mashes, linseed or olive oil, and in case of great
weakness stimulants and tonics should be used, among which we may men-
tion carbonate of ammonia, colombo, gentian and cinchona. est ¢s ¢m-
perative. Fiven strong horses recover much more readily and completely
if relieved of work, though in good weather the animal should be gently
exercised. Keep the stable thoroughly clean and well ventilated, and pro-
vide clothing and warm bedding in cold weather. If the legs be cold,
thoroughly rub them three times a day and wrap them comfortably when
the weather is cold. The burning of tar.in the stable may be of benefit,
especially if some of the above remedies are administered. The fumes of
burning tar or leather so used as to surely enter the nostrils will excite the
membrane to action and thus facilitate the clearing of the nose. They may
be apphed by the use of a steaming-bag. The rubbing of liniment on the
throat is of doubtful value, though this may serve a purpose in the absence
of specific medicines. The best of such liniments is hartshorn. Give hay
sparingly in mild cases, but avoid it in bad ones. Warm bran-mashes
with ¢epzd drinking-water are the best in severe cases. Boiled potatoes.
and turnips and raw apples are good. Corn meal soaked in hot water, in
small quantities every few hours, is strengthening, and suited to late stages.
PINK-EYE.
Pink-eye is epidemic in its character, much the same as the epizootic
considered just above, though not so fatal. It is a fever and not a cold, as
many suppose, though it is sometimes attended with influenza.
Symptoms.—The symptoms are easily detected: The horse becomes
dull and moody, with hanging head; the eyes become red and swollen, the
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 191
whites taking on a pinkish hue; the entire head is more or less swollens.
the swelling éxtends to the legs as the disease progresses; there is a slight
watery discharge from the nose; the mouth is feverish, and the irritation.
extends to the lungs in many cases.
TREATMENT.
Insure rest, taking the horse completely from his work.
and giving only moderate exercise on fair days. Provide soft, clean bedding,.
and blankets in damp, cold or stormy weather, or if the animal is chilly.
Give a regular diet of bran-mashes and good hay. This course will often,
if not generally, be sufficient, but .the internal remedies mentioned for:
Influenza may be selected und used with profit in many cases,
WEED.
This consists in inflammation of the glands of the legs. The lym-.
phatic glands, which carry the dead matter of the body to the excreting
organs, become weakened or overtaxed, and hence become clogged and.
swollen, and then they impart their trouble to other glands. It is frequent
in cart-horses, especially when they have rested a day. It is caused by
unwise feeding, especially changing from poor to good food, by over-work.
after continued rest, by exposure to cold and wet, by standing in water, and
it is usually of a hereditary tendency.
Symptoms.—The symptoms are at first the usual ones of fever.
Occasionally the fore legs are attacked, but usually the hind ones, and of
these most often the left. The horse raises his leg often as if in pain, and it
will be swollen inside down to the hock or even the fetlock. The part is
hot, extremely tender and painful. On the inner side of the leg and thich
is a hard enlargement of the glands, with lumps at intervals. The breathing
is more rapid and the pulse rises to sixty or ninety. In extreme cases a fluid
oozes from the skin and stands in drops on the hair, One attack predis-
poses to another and these are apt to permanently enlarge the leg.
TREATMENT.—Aconite should be given for feverishness, tenderness,
swelling and heat, ten drops every three hours. Give iodide of mercury in
one-grain doses when the glands are swollen and the secretions are sour and
offensive; also when the disorder is brought on by cold, damp, draughts of
air, or unfavorable changes in the weather. If the disease continues and
there is a tendency to a chronic state or to sloughing and abscesses, iodide of
potassa will be found useful, ten grains three times a day, well diluted with.
water, being a proper dose. A paste of iodine may be rubbed on the swollen.
glands, or the tincture of the same may be applied after the inflammation
has somewhat subsided, Rhus both internally and externally has been
’ found efficacious if weed is the result of getting wet or cold when sweating,
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192 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
and the glands are hard and tender. When the acute symptoms have
abated, and the dropsical swellings, poor appetite, emaciation, prostration
and suppression of urine continue as the principal symptoms, give arsenicum.
Use hot fomentations for an hour, four to six times a day. Except during
the acute stages, in which the horse should be at rest, only light work or
- exercise should be imposed, dry bandages being applied with pressure to the
limb after such work or exercise. Guard against the causes named above.
STRANGLES.—DISTEMPER.
This disorder is more common in colts and young horses, but is occa-
sionally found in mature and old animals. Among the more probable causes
is teething or some disorder of the teeth, changeable weather being a favor-
able condition to its occurrence, as is also a change from the field to the
‘stable, or from idleness to activity. The disease attacks the same animal but
‘once. The colt may be on pasture and require no treatment, but it is always
best to give it care at once, since suffocation is liable to occur.
Symptoms.—Among the first evidences of its presence one will often
notice a general unthriftiness, loss of condition, dullness and langour,
though these will not always be noticeable. Then a cough ensues, with an
offensive yellow discharge from the nose; saliva sometimes profuse and
‘stringy; swelling of the glands between the jaws and at the throat, render.
ing chewing and swailiowing painful; this swelling gradually increases, and
sometimes pus forms under the throat, finally bursting and discharging;
when drinking, water may flow out of the nostrils; the horse becomes
feverish and loses his appetite; great thirst, with inability to drink because
of pain in swallowing; spasmodic coughing attends an attempt todrink. The
swelling at the jaws may be hard and keep up the disease for a long time.
‘Or it may disappear and be followed by formations of pus in the shoulders,
groin, lungs, intestines, brain, or other part, producing serious or fatal effects.
TREATMENT.—Give ten drops of aconite every four hours when there
is an appearance of common cold, the horse being feverish, restless, dull and
uncomfortable, with a dull, staring coat, dry, hot mouth, occasional cough,
‘swollen glands about the jaw, quickened pulse, and loss of appetite. Six
‘drops of belladonna may be given in water or on sugar once in three hours
when the back part of the mouth is dry, red, and inflamed. If there be
constipation, give nux vomica every third hour until the appetite is restored.
Great relief may be afforded by putting into a pail equal parts of
vinegar and water, piacing a hot brick in the dilution, and holding the pail
in such a way that the steam will be inhaled. It will often prove so grate-
ful that the horse will put his nostrils within reach of the steam of his own
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 1938
accord. The steaming-bag is also useful (see cut 186). It may be best to
aid the formation of matter between the jaws if the swelling has advanced
considerably. To do this, bind ona poultice. When the swelling has fully
pointed or “ gathered,” open it and let the matter escape. It is of the utmost
importance that the strength be sustained by tonics and an abundant supply
of soft, nourishing food and pure air. If hot mashes are fed from a close
nose-basket hung on the head, the steam will afford much relief, while the
food does as much good as if otherwise taken. Other disorders are liable to
set in along with strangles, and they should be treated as directed.
RHEUMATISM.
This is an inflammation which shifts from one part to another, with
sudden, painful attacks, and usually affects the limbs, chest, and loins.
When the sides and heart become affected, recovery is more doubtful. It
usually results from neglect, the animal being exposed to cold and wet, or
standing in water when warm. Bad food or whatever lowers the vitality
will produce it. It becomes chronic after repeated attacks, and then the
swelling of the parts becomes permanent.
Symptoms.—Shivering at first; then the mouth and skin are hot,
followed by marked stiffness and pain. If the shoulder be affected, the
horse rests the toe frequently on the ground; if the loins, the back is raised
and the belly drawn up. Swelling and heat of the joints and tendons of
the limbs ensue, especially about the fetlock; usually fever; furred tongue;
pulse seventy to eighty, but variable; sour saliva; active bowels; heaving
in the flanks; short, rapid breathing; free, acid sweats; warm skin and legs.
In a disease of the foot, with which rheumatism of the shoulders is often
confused, there is a difficulty in putting the foot to the ground, while in
the latter there is difficulty in Zifting the foot. When the trouble shifts
rapidly from part to part, it is called « flying lameness.”
TREATMENT.—Aconite is needed for shivering; fever; local inflamma-
tion, tenderness and swelling; hot mouth and skin; sweats on parts of the
body; full, rapid pulse; high-colored urine; impaired appetite. This
remedy is especially efficacious if there is danger that the rheumatism will
shift to the heart, in which case ten drops should be given every hour for
several doses, The following conditions call for bryonia: acute attacks,
especially in the legs, shoulders and side; reluctance to move; pain aggra-
vated by motion; full, frequent pulse; short respiration; loss of appetite ;
thirst; costiveness, with dry passage; high-colored urine. It is particularly
useful for attacks induced by changes in the weather, by wind or dry, cold
air, and it is one of the best general remedies for rheumatism. It may
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194. THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
often be beneficially alternated with aconite. Rhus should be given if
there be stiffuess and pain on jrrst moving after rest, but relieved by
motion. It is especially valuable for rheumatism of the back; loss of
muscular power of the legs; chronic rheumatism; cases that are induced
by over-exertion and exposure to wet when tired; and this is also valuable
when the tendons are chiefly involved. Cimicifuga is needed for swollen,
heated joints; pain from motion; “flying” lameness;” heart-complication;
rheumatism which attacks the sides. Gelseminum is valuable for loss of
muscular power, acute pain after long exertion; coldness and weakness of
SLING AND DRESSING FOR RuEUMATISM.
the legs; excessive action of the heart; cases that are worse at night.
Phytolacca is efficacious in chronic rheumatism, with enlargement of the
glands. Colchicum, muriate of ammonia and nitrate of potassa will be
helpful in many cases.
In the way of general care, protect the animal from cold and inclement
weather; keep the stable warm and dry, putting on warm, dry clothing in
damp, stormy, cold, or windy weather. Put hot fomentations and_ lini-
ments on the affected parts, especially on swollen joints. Among the
liniments we may mention, as being useful in general, soap-liniment and
lotions of rhus and belladonna. Cornmeal and bran will make good
poultices for enlarged glands and inflammations. Perhaps the best local
application for the affected parts is Howers of sulphur, rubbed on and then
covered with a thick layer of cotton-batting. Indeed, dry cotton-batting
alone is one of the most grateful and useful of all applications and great
relief will be afforded by keeping the affected members wrapped in it.
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 195
Keep the horse quiet, but allow him to move when so inclined. In severe
or long-standing cases, when the animal is unable to stand or lie down
without much pain, it will be best to devise a sling and pulley to relieve
the limbs of their burden. Give bran-mashes, carrots, clover, and milk-
gruels. Care for the general health is the best of known expedients, es-
pecially in chronic rheumatism, and is the best preventive.
CRAMP.
Symptoms.—tin this disorder, which is a pain and knotting of the
muscles after severe or long-continued exertion, the horse is sore and stiff;
shows tenderness on pressure of the muscles, with difficulty and pain in
moving the legs; hesitates to lie down, then drops suddenly, with a similar
difficulty in rising; evinces but little change in appetite, pulse or respiration.
TREATMENT.—Arnica should be given immediately after any length-
ened or severe exertion which demands great muscular efforts, a dose
every four hours; it will act both as a preventive and asa cure. Rhus is
preferable after the specific symptoms have appeared and the horse is stiff
and sore. Brisk rubbing followed by the application of bandages on the
limbs is often all that is necessary to give the required relief.
GLANDERS AND FARCY.
Farcy consists in sores incident to glanders, and is not a separate dis-
ease. The two constitute one of the most loathsome and fatal diseases of
the horse, which is very highly contagious, being imparted to some other do-
mestic animals and to man. It is some form of blood-poison, and may be
taken from contact of the virus with some broken or irritated part of the
skin, or by absorption from the air, and the poison is lasting, the virus retain-
ing its potency after lying in a stall for months. Occasionally a sound
horse is found which will not take the disease. The virus is more danger-
ous when in food than in water. One horse often gets the disease by be-
ing with an affected one, or in his stall, or contracts it from a man who has
been handling a horse so diseased. If the animal has been in any way re-
duced in his system, he is made more liable to the disease, and catarrh,
strangles, and other disorders may terminate in glanders.
Symptoms of Glanders.—The jrst symptoms of glanders are these:
Quick pulse and breathing; feverish excitement; a thin, inodorous, trans-
parent discharge, generally from one nostril, usually the left, the right be-
ing less affected; light leaden or purplish hue in the mucous membrane of the
nose. This set of symptoms may last weeks or even months, with the
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196 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
horse in apparently good health and at his usual work. In the second
stage, the remaining nostril becomes much affected, the discharge is greater
and is mucous and sticky, adhering to the edge of the nostrils; the lym-
phatic glands beneath the jaw are enlarged, first on the side first affected,
then on both sides, are tender and hard, and stick close to the jaw. In the
third stage, the discharge from the nostrils increases,
is hard, yellow, perhaps blood-streaked, of offensive
odor and mingled with pus; blood sometimes comes.
from the nostril; the mucous membrane of the nose
‘has ulcers with ragged edges and low centers, which
are marked by swollen veins running from them in
all directions; the sores spread back to the throat;,
the lower eyelid becomes diseased, slightly swollen,
asmall discharge of matter coming from the corner
of the eye; after a time, loss of appetite, strength,
i reine gegen flesh and spirits; the swollen glands under the jaw
brane. 2, Membrane with become more tender and adhere closely to the bone;
skin “ hide-bound;” legs, sheath and testicles swell
during the day, becoming reduced at night; lameness; the hair turns the
wrong way; ulcers in various parts of the body. These stages will be
quite well marked in most cases.
Strangles, pneumonia, distemper, and other disorders are also marked
by the sticky discharge, nasal ulcers and swelling of the glands beneath
the jaw, but usually show these symptoms about the same time, thus differ-
ing from glanders. In the last also these are slow and eventually fatal,
while in the other cases they are acute, rapid, and then subside. In catarrh
the discharge from the nose, which in glanders is more marked in one nos-
tril, is free in both nostrils, with prominent fever-symptoms. In lung-
troubles some of the symptoms of glanders appear, but in the latter there
is rarely any cough, while in the former a cough is nearly or quite always
present.
Symptoms of Harcy.—On the inside of one of the legs or thighs, on
the thin skin of the neck or lips, or on the glands, may be a sore which will
afterward grow into a hot, painful “farcy bud,” at first hard, then soft
and containing pus. This sore will burst and present a depressed center, a
hard, ragged edge, with discharges of pus; the connecting lymphatics be-
come inflamed, hard and corded, with tumors of varying size along them.
Though at first confined to one leg, the tumors spread to other parts, reach-
ing the head and throat. Then the skin becomes dropsical, as also the leg,
especially near the breast. After a time the joints give forth a sound as if
the bones were slipping in the sockets. One is apt to confuse farcy with
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES.
grease, surfeit and weed.
197
The subjoined tables of symptoms will enable
one to distinguish it from the first of the three.
FARCY.
1. Skin moderately inflamed, not very
red, nor glossy, nor subject to discharge.
2. Swelling somewhat sudden, but not
great, largest above the hock.
3. Along the course of the inflamed
lymphatics ulcers are formed, having an ir-
regular circular shape and hard edges.
GREASE,
1. Skin hot, very red, glossy, with clear
and very acrid discharge.
2. Swelling very great, especially at the
lowest part, spreading in all directions, but
chiefly downward.
3. On the heels clusters of small vesicles
arise, which become pustular and exude
an acrid discharge, which causes the skin
to crack in deep fissures.
In surfeit the sores come out saddenly on different parts, while in
farcy they appear one by one. In weed the large vecz on the inside of
the thigh is affected, whereas in farcy the lymphatics on either side of this
vein are swollen, hard and corded. In general, the “ farcy buds’’ are the
decisive marks of farcy, whether on the legs or body; and when they affect
the nose, they constitute true glanders.
TREATMENT.—* The acute disease is fatal, The chronic form occa-
sionally appears to recover, though more commonly the symptoms are cov-
ered up to reappear whenever the animal is put to hard work. The treat-
ment of glanders in all its forms, and of acute farcy with open sores, should
be legally prohibited because of the danger to man as well as animals.”
({Law.) The writer’s first and urgent advice is to shoot the affected horse
as soon as he is known to have the glanders or farcy. Where legal restric-
tions against treatment of the disease exist, the course of the attendant is
clear. If the horse is so valuable that the owner, in the absence of such
restrictions, prefers to attempt the treatment at the risk of communicating
such a dreadful disease to members of his household, to his neighbors, and
to domestic animals, he will be assisted by the following notes.
Carbolic acid is useful for both its internal and local effects. Mix ten
drops of the strong acid in a pint of pure water and administer this internally
in four doses six hours apart. Put twenty drops of the same strong acid in
two pints of pure water, and frequently wipe out the nostrils with this di-
lution, using a syringe if the affected parts are otherwise beyond reach,
Cleanse the ulcers and “ buds” with the same, and bathe with it the dis-
ordered lymphatics, keeping cloths on the farcied parts moistened with this
dilution, if this be practicable. When moistening the sponge and cloths
with which the nostrils or other parts are to be treated, Zou the liquid on
them, so that what is in the vessel will be pure. Kali bichromicum may
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198 ‘HE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
have a good effect when the discharge from the nostril is grayish and
sticky, or like the white of egg; the nasal membrane of a slate-color, with
elevations which contain pus; the gland under the jaw adhering to the
jaw, or enlarged. Dissolve one grain of the drug in twelve ounces of water
and give a wineglassful of this three times a day. If the farcy buds be
washed night and morning with a lotion of one drachm of the salt of the
same drug in sixteen ounces of water, good results may be expected. Doses
of five grains of arseniate of strychnia are highly recommended. Iodide
of arsenic will have a good effect if given three times a day as soon as the
“buds” have become full of pus, or when ulcers appear, or when there
are no inflammatory symptoms. If this remedy and kali bichromicum ap-
pear to be indicated at the same time, they should be given in alternation,
and such alternation will be especially valuable when farcy and true
glanders exist at the same time, the horse becoming poor and weak. Bi-
sulphite of soda in two-drachm doses is a good general remedy for glanders.
When the farcy buds become soft, they should be
opened with a sharp knife and a lotion be injected inte
them composed of five grains of chloride of zinc and one
ounce of water. If the wound is not inclined to heal in
a day or two, repeat this injection in two or three days.
Ulcers may also be washed once or twice with this lotion,
and be subsequently cleansed with strong salt-water four
to six times a day if a cure is not effected. After wash-
ing the sores with salt-water, apply equal parts of flour
and pounded charcoal three times a day, if the former
treatment has not succeeded. A thick layer of calomel
is also efficacious when the sores are slow about healing.
f Keep the horse clean and give moderate exercise or
spe ee EIN: light work. The best of hay and « moderate allowance
of oats, with carrots and other green food, will be a
suitable diet. Keep the stable clean, airy but not cold, change the bedding
often, and use carbolic acid freely in washing the floor. Pure air, rich food,
and an absence of exhausting labor are essentials in the treatment and _ pre-
vention.
To prevent the spread of this dreadful disease, which is usually fatal
however well treated, the best plan is to shoot the horse and bury him deep
in the ground—it is still better to burn him—and no other course is free
from danger to man or beast. Remember that a heavy penalty is incurred
in some States by exposing glandered horses in a public place. All sus-
pected animals should be carefully secluded until they are safe from infec-
tion, or have been cured or destroyed. All rags, sponges, brushes, pails,
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 199
and like articles which have been used in treating a glandered horse should
be burned, as that is absolutely safe, though a thorough washing with car-
bolic acid may counteract the virus. The stable, manure, and whatever
the infected animal has touched, should be thoroughly treated with carbolic
acid, the bedding being burned. Let the attendants be as few as can do the
necessary work. Never handle a glandered or farcied horse if the skin
of the hands is sore or broken, for man may readily take the disease and
suffer distressingly if not fatally. Always wash the hands in dilute car-
bolic acid after treating an infected animal, and before going near other
people or beasts. If the clothes have the virus on them, or if doubt exists as
to this, they should be washed in the same way. Keep well animals of all
kinds completely away from an infected one. Every one who is to go near
the suffering horse should be fully advised upon the virulent nature of the
disease, and take the necessary precaution against contracting it.
DROPSY.
The cause of dropsy is some obstruction of the circulation, or a dis-
eased state of the blood, with general reduction of the system. It is called
general dropsy when it causes a collection of watery fluid under the tissues
of the skin generally, 2ydrothorax when it affects the lungs merely, and
ascites when the belly or intestines are involved. General dropsy is caused
by exposure to wet and cold, as when a horse is turned out of a warm
stable to a marsh, or to pasture in cold weather; the coating processes of
spring and autumn are causes, as well as derangement of the heart. AZy-
drothorax is occasioned by general weakness, by fever-epidemics, as influ-
enza; and also results from the unwise operation of bleeding. Ascvtes has
the same causes as general dropsy, and is also a result of diseases of the
belly, chest and membranes about the small intestines, indigestion, obstruc-
tion of the veins, and general debility; it frequently results from peritonitis.
Symptoms.—The universal symptom of dropsy is swelling of the skin,
which retains for some time indentations of the fingers, and is attended
with great weakness, with absence of inflammation and pain; fever-symp-
toms, at first slight, become marked. If 2ydrothorax results from pleurisy,
when acute symptoms subside the motion of the water in the chest may be
clearly detected by striking with the hand; the animal loses appetite,
grows languid, depressed, weak, and has an anxious look; the back is rigid,
- flanks drawn in, hair rough and easily pulled from the tail and mane; pulse
rapid, feeble, and finally imperceptible at the jaw; nostrils spread; eyes,
mouth and nose of a leaden color; breathing short and. very labored; fore
legs stand apart; urine scanty, bowels bound; swellings over the limbs,
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200 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
belly and sheath. In asetfes the helly gradually swells so that alternate
and rapid pressure by the hand on the sides will produce fluctuations of
water and a dull sound; breathing becomes difficult as the water increases;
usually external swellings of the belly and sheath follow; coat dry and
loose; urine thick and sedimentous; skin hide-bound; griping pains; the
usual costiveness is followed by diarrhea, with offensive dung.
TREATMENT.—Give aconite for inflammatory general dropsy, when
the swelling comes on suddenly and rapidly spreads, with hastened breath-
ing and pulse, thirst, reddening of the eyes and nostrils; and also if this
condition results from a sudden check of the secretions of the skin from
exposure to wet or cold. Arsenicum is of the highest value in all forms of
dropsy that are marked, in addition to the swelling, by weakness, emacia-
tion, loss of spirits, great thirst, loss of appetite, dry tongue, difficult
breathing, small, weak and itregular pulse, cold legs, scanty and turbid
urine, and diarrhea. Digitalis may be given when the heart is implicated
aud the pulse is small, feeble, intermittent and irregular, breathing difficult,
and urine scanty. It is useful in almost every kind of dropsy, even in des-
perate cases, and may often be beneficially alternated with arsenicum. Apis
is highly useful, especially when fever-difficulties are present, such as
hurried breathing, small and quick pulse; for passages of urine which forms
a reddish sediment and for rapid swellings. It is particularly valuable
for ascites in the first stages, and is also useful for hydrothorax. In the
general care measures should be taken to avoid cold, dampness, and vigorous
exercise, though a little walking for an hour may be given, if no fever-
symptoms exist. Let the horse take exercise in a loose box during inflam-
matory dropsy, and give mashes of green food; but barley, boiled oats and
the best of hay are needed if there be much weakness. Tapping should
not be resorted to until a fair trial of medicines has been given. This
operation is performed in ascites by cutting the navel with a lancet, the
fluid being drawn with the trocar and canula, the skin drawn over the
cut, and pressure applied with bandages. In other forms the swellings may
be pricked in the parts hanging down the most, the discharges being sub-
sequently promoted by fomentations and pressure applied to the parts.
SPLENIC FEVER.—ANTHRAX.
This fever is acute and contagious, is marked by a great enlarge-
ment of the spleen, and is rapid in its progress. It is caused by the con-
tact of an infected animal with one that is healthy. It is more common
among cattle than among horses. For fuller notes upon its different forms,
see this disease in the Ox.
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 201
Symptoms.
the surface, followed by heat; convulsive movements and peculiar spasms
Loss of appetite; thirst; cold and shivering; coldness of
about the extremities; pulse and respiration quickened; temperature from
105° to 110°; bloody dung; whitish discharge from the nose; high-col-
ored, odorous urine. Though the symptoms are usually regular, they may
be intermittent, the horse being seemingly almost well during their inter-
missions. Recovery or death comes on rapidly. In fatal cases the breath-
ing is exceedingly difficult, the convulsions in the back, loins and muscles
of the eyes are violent; the temperature falls; loss of power ensues, and
‘death is precipitated by a suspension of circulation. Carbuncles attend
this fever, and are at first hot, tender, and easily indented, but soon become
hard, painless and cool, terminating in ulcers. Yellow serum or blood
may exude from some parts of the skin; the mucous membranes become
puffy, stopped up, or streaked, with a bloody and offensive discharge finally
coming from the nose. Sight, locomotion, eating, drinking and urination
become impaired or impeded. Death may ensue ina few hours, or the
animal may linger weeks, or even months. During the progress of the
‘disease the animal hangs on the halter, leans against any object within
reach, lies down, but soon rises again, turns the head toward the flank, and
‘shows signs of pain in the belly.
TREATMENT.—If symptoms of fever are chiefly noticeable, give ten
drops of aconite every half-hour. For the general fever give one part of
‘strong liquor ammonium causticum to ten of water every half-hour. For
apoplectic symptoms belladonna and aconite may be used, fifteen or twenty
minutes apart. For local swellings and carbuncles give arsenicum or
phytolacca. If the dung becomes bloody, with straining during the dis-
charges, and if the urine be bloody, give mercurius corrosivus. In the way
of general care give a change of air, a comfortable stable and nutritious
food. Remove an animal dying from th’ trouble, and cleanse the stall
and all its furniture before admitting another horse. Carbolic acid has
proved serviceable as a preventive. Further directions as to general care
may be found under the treatment of this disease in the Ox.
PURPURA HAMORRHAGICA.—ACUTE ANASARCA.
This depends upon some unknown change in the blood or its vessels,
perhaps both, by which the blood oozes into the skin and its tissues, and
into the internal cavities and organs. It is supposed to be caused by ill-
‘ventilated stables, over-work, bad or scanty food, damp stables; indeed,
whatever checks proper blood-making; it often follows some catarrhal
trouble.
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202 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
Symptoms.—The symptoms are full pulse, about sixty; breathing
about twenty; irregular swellings of various size, consisting of blood, un-
der or in the skin, especially in the legs, becoming enormous at the hocks,
ending short at the elbow-joints and stifle; the nostrils and lips are swollen,
hard and shiny; the chambers of the nose so far closed
as to cause difficulty in breathing; nasal membrane
very red and marked with purple spots of varying
size, similar spots being on the inside of the lips, which,
when pricked, give out blood. Soon the pulse be-
comes weaker and the urine high-colored; swellings
enlarge and extend to the belly, flanks and other parts;
eyes blood-shot; the nasal membrane blackens; the spots.
become ulcerous, with shreds of tissue hanging out;
po Walon bloody fluid, perhaps mixed with water, flows
BH AGIER: from the nose; the swellings on some parts become
cold, very hard and insensible, break off, and leave raw sores; a fluid stands
on the hair, principally under the belly; blood passes with the urine, or in
clots; the horse is weak, is unable to move the swollen legs, and eats little,
perhaps nothing.
It should be observed that in Weed the femoral vein is enlarged and
tender, but not in purpura hemorrhagica, and that in the former the
swelling on the inside of the thigh is hard and not elastic. Again, in Glan-
ders and Farcy there are swollen lips and nose, with a brown, pussy dis-
charge from the nostrils, and ulceration of the dividing wall of the nose;
but they are not attended by the sudden swelling of both thighs, without
cording, and of the muscles of the chest; nor by the purple blotches inside
the lips and gums; nor by the dark purple shade of the nasal membrane
after the small red spots. These distinctive features should be carefully noted,
for purpura hemorrhagica is for some strange reason not unfrequently
mistaken for farcy and glanders.
TREATMENT.—Kali bichromicum has proved to be a most valuable
remedy, especially when sloughing of the mucous membrane of the nose
or parts of the skin takes place, and when pimples appear on the skin.
It may be given every three hours at first, the intervals being lengthened
as the animal improves. Among the best remedies for this disorder we
may mention ergot and arsenic, the latter being suitably given in the form
of Fowler’s Solution. As soon as the inflammatory symptoms subside, or
even in the start, when the malignant symptoms are very marked, these
two should be given, the former in doses of ten to fifteen drops alternated
with five-drop doses of the latter every two hours. Wash the sores with
a solution of carbolic acid or chloride of zinc, so far diluted as to avoid irri-
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES, 203:
e
tation. Provide a dry stable, with good ventilation. Give nourishing food.
Require but little work, but insure a reasonable amount of light exercise.
ABSCESSES.
Abscesses are collections of pus in some parts or organs of the body.
They may result from some of the diseases or injuries elsewhere mentioned.
in this work, as fever, for instance, or they may be caused by a disorder in
the blood without any apparent previous disease. Some part is inflamed.
and pus forms, which will either float about in the tissues or be collected in
one place, the enveloping sac becoming full and yielding to the touch, and
generally rising to a point or “head,” finally bursting and letting out its.
contents. They may and generally do form under the skin, but may oc-
cur within the animal, as in the lungs. When they are deep in the flesh
the pus cannot readily come out, and a narrow canal is formed
which leads to the surface.
TREATMENT.—IF the abscess be in the inner organs, an improvement
of the horse’s general condition is all that one can do, and regard shouid
be had to the feeding, grooming, ventilation and the like. If the abscess.
can be reached, cut it open at the most prominent point when it pulsates, is
soft and nearly ready to burst. In such cases it would soon burst spon-
taneously, but cutting averts the rough, irregular and large opening which
the natural process causes. Should it not come to a point, but spread, open
at once. If the disorder is owing to the presence of irritating fluids, open
immediately and let the fluids escape. If the formation of pus be unduly,
slow, apply a poultice or mild blister, dzet not until the abscess shows signs
of coming to a head. If the sore be deep in, the flesh, and a canal has.
been formed leading to the surface, it will often be necessary to cut the
walls of the canal completely open to the bottom, thus making an incised
wound, and treating as directed under Incised Wounds. It is seldom, if
ever, advisable to check or disperse matter when once forming. When an
opening has been cut, gently squeeze out the matter and inject warm water
into the sore with a syringe twice daily for two or three days, and keep the
edges of the sore clean. If bloody matter is discharged, add some diluted.
ammonia to the warm water.
For high fever, local inflammation, swelling or tumor threatening an
abscess, give ten drops of aconite every two or three hours. If suppuration
is slow, give hepar every three hours. For an abscess which discharges a
thin, discolored, offensive matter or pus of a bad odor, give five grains of
asafcetida three times daily, and apply a wash of either one grain of
chloride of zinc to an ounce of water, or ten drops of carbolic acid to am
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204 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
ounce of water. Baryta carbonica is valuable for hard tumors in the head,
enlarged glands which threaten to form pus, or tubercles in the jaw; it aids
in softening hard abscesses, and also removes scrofulous tumors without
suppuration. Abscesses are very debilitating and need good treatment.
ULCERS.
Ulcers often follow bruises and other extended injuries, and take place
especially when the system is unhealthy, but may result from inflamma-
tion, They are a separation of dead tissue from surrounding parts, and
are attended with a secretion of pus. If the ulcers appear on a mucous
membrane, there will at first be seen a red point or two, with a few small
vesicles on the surface of the part affected, a watery fluid exuding from
beneath, and sometimes a thick, gray, slimy lymph. The ulcer grows
larger as parts of the tissue come away, its edges becoming ragged and
swollen. It may be deep, extending in different directions; round and
shallow, with ragged edges, and spreading out; or sloughing, parts of the
tissue flaking off.
TREATMENT.—Have regard to the general health by insuring nourish-
ing food, fresh air, good grooming and rest. Nearly always avoid the use
of ointments. Plain cold water is the best external treatment. If the
formation of pus is too long delayed, press around the sore lightly, and
‘should this not avail, use a mild blister somewhat frequently. Should the
-granulations be excessive in the healing, apply lunar ‘caustic or powdered
burnt alum. If the injury results from chafing of the saddle or harness,
follow the treatment given under Galls. For fever, give ten drops of
aconite every three hours for a day or two. Méercurius is needed for
spreading ulcers, corroding discharge, and rawness. Arsenicum is demanded
for ulcers which result from a debilitated constitution, hard work, and
poor fare; for deep, readily bleeding, inflamed, putrid, gangrenous, corrod-
ing, mortifying and spreading ulcers; for those with thin pus of bad odor.
Give five to ten drops three times daily. Asafcetida is desirable for bluish
ulcers, turning black, with hard edges, and painful to the touch, the dose
being three to five grains three times a day. Ten drops of sulphuric acid
every four hours will be beneficial for ulcers with dark spots and discolored
skin when the cause is some mechanical injury, bruise or pressure.
FISTULA.—FISTULOUS WITHERS.
In this disease matter forms from an inflammation caused by a badly-
fitting collar or saddle, usually a side-saddle, or other injury. The matter
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 205
is confined in the muscles and ligaments, forms canals, and passes down to
the muscles connecting the shoulders with the trunk. Sometimes, however,
the abscess takes the form of a sac with scrum in it, when the case is.
easily cured. In the worst form, the muscles connected with the neck,
back and legs being involved, the inflammation tapidly extends, the liga-
ments, muscles and cartilages are affected, the shoulder is lowered, and
much damage occurs.
Symptoms.—Swelling and tenderness on the withers or at the side of
the upper end of the spine, soon attended with softness, If the skin be
much bruised, a piece comes off, leaving an unhealthy sore, through which,
ADVANCED STAGE OF FISTULOUS WITHERS.
a discharge runs out from a sac that may be detected with a probe; or
fistulous ducts may run in various directions. In some cases there is a hard.
tumor on the withers which stubbornly remains, but will not suppurate.
TREATMENT.—First alter the saddle, or keep the horse from work
a few days. If the swelling be recent and soft, apply a lotion of arnica
and glycerine with lint and oil-silk until the inflammation subsides. If the
tumor bursts or is cut open, bathe it with a lotion of one part of arnica to:
twoof water. Ifa serous sac or fistulous canal exists in the swelling, it must
be opened for the escape of the matter. Generally it is best to make the
opening low down on the right side, since the horse usually lies on that side
and the matter will more completely be discharged in this way. After the
opening has been made, dress with a lotion of calendula, one part to
four of water, four times daily and inject some of the same into the canals,
if such exist. If the walls of the canals thicken, become hard and indis-
posed to heal, zinc, copper, or mercurius corrosivus, in weak solution,
should be injected until renewed action is set up; then the calendula-lotion
will complete the cure. If the bone is involved and decays, it should be
removed by a surgeon. Of course only a skillful surgeon can make the
opening in the canals if they be deep down in the fleshy tissues,
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206 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
FISTULOUS NOSE.
Wounds sometimes produce ulcers in the back part of the nose, perhaps
inducing ulceration of the bones which discharges a thin, unhealthy, pus-
like fluid, such ulcers being of a fistulous character.
TREATMENT.—Apply to the fistula a solution of carbolic acid, ten drops
to an ounce of glycerine. Wash well with soap and water. The following
formula will be useful if the fistula does not heal but remains unhealthy:.
Hydrastia, 20 grains.
Todoform, Io grains.
Sugar, 1% ounce.
Pulverize together in a mortar until they are thoroughly mixed; then
apply to the fistula once a day, blowing it trom a quill.
POLL EVIL.
Poll evil results from some blow on the top of the head, or from a
coarse, heavy head-collar chafing the part.
Symptoms.—Hanging head, the horse being unwilling to be handled
about the ears; painful swelling just back of the ears on the top of the head,
at first hard, then growing soft, of the nature of an abscess, gradually
‘coming to a head, bursting, and discharging matter, which is sometimes
healthy, in other cases, when the liga-
ments and bones are involved, unhealthy
and offensive. The probe will detect
a single cavity, without canals, or canals
passing in different directions, perhaps
extending to the bone.
TREATMENT.—This disease is very
difficult of treatment except in the
earliest stages, when it may be checked
by removing the cause and applying
BEE TE AN AY RRR Oe arnica to the part. The formation of
matter should be prevented if possible. When this can not be done, cut
open the hard, painful swelling (¢f you area skillful operator), and apply
lint saturated in equal parts of glycerine, calendula and water, oil-silk being
put on then, and a linen hood with openings for the ear being fastened on
with tapes around the jaw and neck. Moisten the linen three times daily
with the lotion. Should the tumor become soft and mobile, a surgeon
should at once open it, in such a way, if possible, as to allow the matter to
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 207
run out. If matter still remains, it may be removed with a sponge. When
canals exist where the surgeon deems it unsafe to make an opening, and a
thin, bloody discharge comes off, indicating diseased bones and tendons, a
weak solution of corrosive sublimate or of chloride or sulphate of zinc should
be injected daily. When the matter becomes thick and white, calendula-
lotion may be injected instead of the corrosive sublimate or zinc. When
there is a low state of the system, tonics should be given, as iron and cin-
chona. When such a state is accompanied by a thin, foul, bad-smelling and
corroding discharge, give arsenicum. Aconite is needed for primary in-
flammation, ten drops of dilute tincture being put in a pint of water and
given two or three times daily until the inflammation subsides.
WOUNDS.
The whole subject of wounds may be treated under this general head.
We divide the matter into four groups, namely, contused wounds, incised
wounds, punctured wounds, and lacerated wounds.
CONTUSED WOUNDS.
By this term we mean those in which the skin is bruised, but not cut
through or broken. They are caused by some mechanical violence, such as
a halter accidentally caught around the leg, a fall, a kick, or a blow. The
symptoms are redness, heat, swelling and pain of the affected part.
TREATMENT.—In mild cases wet two or three folds of linen in a lotion
made of one ounce of calendula, two ounces of glycerine and a half-pint of
water, and place them on the parts with a wet bandage, repeating this every
two hours. If the skin and under-lying parts are much affected, foment the
part with warm water constantly during the day, and apply a bran-poultice
at night. When the sore grows soft, let the matter out with a lance, or
sharp knife, the fomentation only being then continued, If lymph forms
instead of pus, and the swelling stil! remains, rub the part with the calen-
dula-lotion twice a day. Should this fail, rub in daily a small quantity
of a preparation composed of four ounces of soap-liniment and one-half
ounce of camphor. Apply carbolic-acid lotion if flies lay eggs in the
‘wound.
One of the best applications for open wounds, mentioned here but
applicable as well to clean cuts and lacerated wounds, is a decoction of but-
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208 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
&
ternut bark. Fill a kettle with this bark, chopped fine, cover with water,
and let it simmer slowly, adding water as it evaporates, until a strong tea
is made. Apply with aswab. This will both keep the wound clean and
prevent the flies from infesting it, two very important points.
INCISED WOUNDS, OR CLEAN CUTS.
Incised wounds are those in which a clean cut is made, without lacera-
tion, by some sharp-edged instrument.
TREATMENT.—In many cases the lips of the wound close and heal
without treatment. In other cases .calendula-lotion will be found an excel-
lent external application. If the wound fails to yield to this treatment,
the surgeon must join the lips by some process, and it is advised to call
him at first in case of severe cuts. If the loss of blood be considerable,
give tonics to restore the strength, such as cinchona.
Bleeding is generally of little consequence unless a large artery be
cut, which is indicated by spurts of bright-scarlet blood, then the mouth
of the artery should be seized at once with forceps, and a ligature be put
around it. If this be impracticable, put tow in the wound and hold it with
a bandage. Pieces of lint soaked in a lotion of millefolium, one part of
the strong tincture to nine of water, may be put in the wound, to the bot-
tom, and be left until-the healing of the wound pushes them out; this will
be better than the tow. Cold water dashed on the part will often stop
bleeding; as also will strong alcohol. If bleeding will not stop after the
lips of the wound have been held together, and the attendant has no ready
means for tying the artery, he should apply pressure firmly on the blood-
vessel above the wound (toward the heart) by passing a bandage around
the affected member, with a stone or walnut resting on the artery, then
putting a stick underneath and twisting the bandage until the flow stops.
Severe bleeding from a vein (indicated by a constant, not spurting stream)
maybe checked by like pressure applied dé/ow the wound. If flies lay eggs
"in the wound, wash with a lotion of carbolic acid. Read the note under
Contused Wounds upon the use of the decoction of butternut bark.
PUNCTURED WOUNDS OR PRICKS,
Punctured wounds have small openings, but are usually deeper and
more serious than others, They are made with pitchforks, nails, thorns,
splinters, crockery, and the like.
TREATMENT.—Remove thorns, splinters, or other foreign body from
the wound. If the injury is not near a joint, or has not penetrated a ten-
don, it is best to lay open the wound and make an ordinary incised wound,
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THE HORSE-—-GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 209
‘treating it then as directed under the last subject above. If a tendon be
punctured and fluid is discharged around it, or if a joint be punctured,
adopt the treatment laid down under Open Joints. If lock-jaw ensues, as
is likely to be the case from this kind of wound, especially if the foot be
pricked, consult the section on that subject. Should flies’ eggs be seen in
the sore, apply carbolic-acid lotion for their destruction.
LACERATED WOUNDS.
These are injuries in which the skin and parts under it are torn, jag-
ged, irregular, and often bruised. They are caused by nails or hooks in
the walls of the stable, poles or sticks running into the flesh, and the like.
TREATMENT.—Bring the parts of the wound as nearly as possible in-
to the natural position of the skin, and cut off those portions of lacerated
skin which you know would surely slough off eventually. Grit or
sand should he previously removed, by bathing in warm water if the bleed-
ing be slight, or by dashing on cold water if the bleeding be profuse. If
the wound be large, a surgeon may sew the parts, bringing the lips closely
together. For the inflammation, which is usually severe, use warm fomen-
tations every one, two or three hours, keeping a bandage on to exclude the
air and to prevent the washing away of the lymph which is essential to
healing. In about a week, when inflammation has subsided, remove the
bandage and discontinue fomentations, allowing a little water to run over
the wound to remove superfluous matter. The use of a sponge must be
avoided, as it will remove the lymph. Indeed, unless the matter is very
plentiful and has a bad smell, even water should not run over the wound.
When healing commences, oil-silk or collodion, applied with a very soft
brush, may be put on the sore to exclude the air. Liniments are usually
harmful; nature should take her course, with such assistance as has been
mentioned, until granulations appear in the wound, when calendula-lotion
will aid the skinning-over of the injury. Should the granulations rise
above the skin, or “ proud flesh”? form, apply finely-powdered sulphate of
zinc. For flies’ eggs in the wound, apply a lotion of carbolic acid. Read
the remark under Contused Wounds upon the use of butternut bark...
OPEN JOINT OF THE LOWER JAW.
This needs some special mention, and may be considered here, lacera-
tion of the tongue being another specific kind of wound that will be
noticed. Such open joint may be caused by a blow, the joint-oil escaping,
the parts becoming painful and swollen, and the joint possibly becoming
0 inflamed as to cause disease in the bone and prevent, eating.
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210 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
TREATMENT.—Keep the jaws fixed by a head-collar, with a strap
fastened around the face and lower jaw above the nostrils. Feed only
thick gruels and other fluids until the jaw is completely healed.
LACERATION OF THE TONGUE.
Laceration of the tongue may result from a high port-bit; the forcible
administration of food; irregular or long, rough teeth; a blow when the
tongue hangs out; thorns, sharp bones, and the like. The symptoms are
slobbering and inability to eat, which will lead te an examination that will
discover the laceration.
TREATMENT.—Remove foreign bodies. Apply a lotion of equal parts
of calendula and water. If ulcers appear, apply alum or hydrastis. Keep
the bit out of the mouth for some time. Give soft green food.
GENERAL CARE IN WOUNDS.
Keep the wounded parts at rest. Remove any foreign body or mat-
ter that may be in the wound. If the jaw be injured, give only sloppy
diet, such as does not require mastication. If the legs are affected, the
horse should be tied up in many cases, and occasionally should be so placed
that he cannot gnaw the wound. If “ proud flesh’? forms, which is an
excessive and unhealthy granulation, apply sulphate of zinc or copper,
nitrate of silver, or alum. If the healing process be too slow or stopped,
the wound may be roused again to action by gently removing the edges
with a knife if it be in the skin, or by other mechanical irritation if an-
other part be thus dormant. Poisoned wounds, as from snake-bites, should
be promptly cauterized, as directed under Hydrophobia. All indications
of lock-jaw should be promptly regarded. It is also desirable, often very
urgent, that oil-silk be put over the dressing to exclude the air.
STAKING.
Staking is an injury sustained by leaping a fence or gate, the skin and
tissues of the abdomen being punctured or torn.
TREATMENT.—If the skin is not broken, but the muscles are torn, and
the bowel falls into the torn part underneath, a well-fitting pad must be
bandaged on and kept wet with arnica-lotion. Should the skin be broken
and the bowel hang out, keep the horse where he is, gently wash blood
and grit from the bowel with warm water, and replace it with gentle
pressure and manipulation. The surgeon will then draw the lips of the
wound together and bind them with pins and tow. With a bandage around
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THE HMORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 211
the body fasten on the part a pad kept wet in calendula-lotion. If the
bowel has been torn, the surgeon will sew it up before replacing it.. Give
aconite and arnica ‘alternately, ten drops every two hours. Keep the
horse quiet. Give soft food, and that sparingly.
SPRAINS.
A sprain is an over-stretching of muscles, ligaments or tendons, and
may arise from either of various causes. It affects any part that is subject
to such undue tension.
Symptoms.—Pain on pressure, or motion; redness; swelling; heat;
fever of the affected member, and sometimes of the general system. Since a
sprain will impair or destroy the use of the parts, the muscles about such
parts will waste more or less, such a condition being known by the gen-
eral term “sweeny,” though it is popularly applied quite exclusively to
such a condition about the shoulders. This specific form of sweeny will be
considered further on. d
GENERAL TREATMENT OF SPRAINS.—For fever, when it exists,
give aconite several times a day. Arnica is needed when the sprain js in
the muscles; and rhus if it is in the tendons or ligaments. Apply fomenta-
tions, or bandages kept wet in water (hot in winter and cold in summer),
or in a lotion of arnica or rhus. Lint wet in equal parts of glycerine, al-
cohol and water, and covered with oil-silk and a bandage, is an excellent
dressing. Poultices will be found beneficial in some cases. Simple rest
may be sufficient in some sprains, and is always essential. When the inflam-
mation has been reduced by any of the means which have been mentioned,
a lotion of one part of rhus to eight of water may be well rubbed in night
and morning, and a moderately tight bandage be applied. An excellent
liniment is made on the following formula:
Soap liniment, 4 ounces.
Camphor, IZ ounce.
Liquor ammonia, I ounce.
Mix.
Rub on a spoonful once a day, for two or three days perhaps, but dis-
continue it as scon as a mild blister is produced. Keep the horse’s head
tied up forty-eight hours, and repeat the application in ten days if necessary.
SWEENY.
We apply this term, in its popular sense, to a sprain of the muscles
which fill the back cavity on the outer_side of the shoulder-blade. and
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212 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
which pass over the outer side of the shoulder-joint. It chiefly affects
colts and young horses that are put to the plow, but occurs in any horses
that travel on uneven ground where they are liable to step into holes.
Symptoms.—Heat, swelling, tenderness on the outside of the shoulder-
joint, and a gait which is peculiar to this disorder; the walk or trot may be
attended with little or no lameness; looking at the animal from in front,
one sees that the affected shoulder rolls outward much more than the other;
the muscles soon begin to waste rapidly, and in extreme cases the shoulder-
blade will seem to bé covered only by the skin. Like symptoms, even
including the characteristic waste of the muscles, may attend sprains in
other parts, more notably the haunch, and such cases require substantially
the same treatment as shoulder-sweeny.
TREATMENT.—It may take treatment for months to effect a complete
filling of the cavity, but this can be done if the case is taken before it has
stood long; in those which are fully confirmed only a partial restoration
can be effected. In the first stages, marked by heat and other acute symp-
toms, treat as directed for Sprains. After such symptoms have been
subdued, impose exercise on smooth ground and rub the parts with a rough
rag, a bunch of hay or a stick to stimulate circulation—the liniment made
on the formula given under Sprains being a most useful adjunct to this end.
Another superior local application is here given:
Oil of spike, 2 ounces.
Origanum, Bo oa
Aqua ammonia, 2 6
Turpentine, Be ose
Sweet oil, 2 «&
Alcohol, B86
Mix.
Apply every morning for three days, and onthe fourth day wash
Snoroughly with Castile soap and water. On the fifth apply as before,
continuing three days, then washing as on the fourth day. So continue
until a cure is effected, rubbing well with the hand at each application.
SHOULDER-LAMENESS.
Many mistakes are made in locating lameness in the shoulders. Hence,
the symptoms should be the more carefully named and observed.
Symptoms.—The horse is unwilling to raise or advance the leg, and
moves it by dragging it with the toe on the ground, turning it around
when he does advance it; pain is caused by lifting and drawing the leg
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THE HORSE—GENERAL DISEASES AND INJURIES. 213
forward or outward, and by pressure on the affected muscles; sometimes a
‘swelling at the point of the large bone near the breast, which is pained by
‘pressing the fingers along the muscles.
TREATMENT.—Frequently foment the part with warm water. When
active inflammation ceases, rub in the camphorated ammoniacal liniment
of which the formula is given under Sprains.
DISLOCATIONS.
These almost always need the services of a surgeon. They are gen-
erally characterized by a protuberance over the displaced joint, which is
caused by the end of the bone pressing against the skin which covers it.
The use of the joint is, of course, lost while the displacement continues.
The accompanying illustration of a dislocation of the whirl-bone, with the
protuberance at the joint, will be a guide in detecting the disorder in other
joints. We here give the special symptoms and treatment of a dislocation
of the st7fle-jornt.
Symptoms.—Should the stifle-bone be displaced, the leg protrudes
backward during motion, with inability to draw it under the body; the
pastern trails along the ground; swelling appears on the outside of the
joint. Inasprain of the stifle-joint there will be the heat, swelling and
tenderness incident to sprains, and in action the horse will carry his leg
around instead of raising it naturally.
TREATMENT.—We mention the treatment of this form of dislocation
because it may be attempted by any intelligent’person; but displacements
in other joints should always be treated by a
surgeon. A line should be passed around the
pastern and an assistant draw the leg forward
and upward toward the belly, while the oper-
ator puts his arms around the haunches, places
his hand on the outer angle of the stifle-bone,
presses it forward and upward, and thus manip-
ulates until the bone slips back to its place,
as indicated by asnap. Keep the head tied
up for a few days to keep the horse from oveniitorenrce oerse Wie
lying down, and apply a strong pitch-plaster se
to the joint to prevent a recurrence of the dislocation. The strained
tendons will need to be treated as directed for Sprains. To keep
the horse from lying down the requisite time slings may be necessary
to relieve the limbs of a part of their weight, and a suitable one is shown
in cut 169.
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214 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
FRACTURES OF BONES.
Fractures are caused by various forms of violence. In some cases
it may be difficult for one who is not conversant with such matters
to detect their existence, but generally little trouble will be found
in deciding the matter, especially in the legs. In nearly every case
when a fracture is discovered or suspected, a veterinary surgeon should be
called at once, though in bad fractures in the legs of horses which are of
an excitable disposition, treatment is quite useless, and it is better to shoot
the horse, as always tz broken back. After the surgeon has operated on
the fracture and left, swelling and inflammation may be so great, especially
if splints have been used, that he must be recalled. Should “proud flesh’?
form when laceration of the tissues has been caused, apply to it nitrate of
silver or powdered sulphate of zinc. If the skull be broken, as may occur
from the horse rearing and falling backward, immediate care should be
taken to prevent poll evil; if fhe latter ensues, follow the treatment else-
where laid down for it. If the ribs be fractured, and it is certain that a
sharp end does not protrude inward, but the ends of the ribs are joined and
protrude outward, pass around the body a compress and bandage, giving
absolute rest and quiet. Some weeks are required for a cure of a fracture.
OVER-EXERTION.
Over-exertion gives rise to symptoms which call for treatment, prom-
inent among which are loss of appetite; failure to lie down; sleep while
the animal stands; hanging head; pulse slow and weak, or quick and hard,
the animal being much excited.
TREATMENT.—If there be loss of appetite, and failure to lie down
when the animal is very tired, give nux vomica. If the horse moans at
each movement, rhus will be useful. When the pulse is hard, quick, and
attended with great excitement, give aconite. Arnica is efficacious if the
legs be paralyzed; arsenicum, if they be stiff; rhus, if they be swollen. If
the animal is distressed during fatigue, give easily digested food, not in too
great quantities, as bran-mashes, steamed carrots and turnips, sweet hay
shaken up and sprinkled with water, oats (about two quarts) soaked and
well mixed together. As a drink, give water, not cold, and boiled oatmeal.
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CHAPTER XII.
GENERAL CARE.
AILMENTS OF DOMESTICATION.
\/ HE horse seldom suffers from disease when he enjoys his natural
» freedom and untrammeled activity out of doors, but in domestica-
tion he soon becomes liable to more or less of the many ailments
ee? incident thereto. The subject of health is a broad one as applied
to any animal organism, too broad indeed for any detailed consideration
that will at once be full enough for its demands, and yet brief enough to be
read and heeded. As in the human being one seldom studies with pa-
tience and precision the requirements of health until sickness has come on,
so the master of a horse is too prone to pass the laws of hygiene of his
faithful servant until disease has rendered him unfit for the duties required
of him. As was remarked on a preceding page, it is scarcely less than
cruelty for one to withhold a due study of the needs of the dumb and help-
less brutes which are taken from their state of nature and compelled to do
the drudgery and bear the burdens of mankind. It is too often the case
that one pays only such heed to his animals as will enable him to draw from
them the service he wishes, without being humane enough to make due
provision for the comfort and convenience of the animals, which is 7s
“reasonable service.” It is the purpose here to make notes upon the ordi-
nary particulars in the care of the horse, omitting the technical and scien-
tific data which both deter one from reading what is essential, and are of
little popular use. In so doing, we shall allude to some of the common
causes of disease and discomfort and indicate the means of removing them.
AIR AND VENTILATION.
Though able to bear severe changes inthe weather when runniag all the
time in the open fields, the horse suffers greatly from the same influences after
being comfortably stabled for any considerable length of time. While the cause
of colds and like diseases is often traceable to atmospheric changes, a very
frequent source of the same will be found in the anxiety to exclude the air
215
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EXPLANATIONS OF FIGURE
The figure on the opposite page exhibits a complete outline of a per-
fect horse and indicates the measurements of the same.
taken, by permission, from the Horse-Shoer and Hardware Fournal:
. Brea: t-Bone.
Shoulder-Blade.
Radius.
Ulna.
. Elbow.
. Ribs.
. Carpal Bones.
OOM ANPwWHH
w
°
. Great Pastern.
. Little Pastern.
HH
Now
a. Crest.
6. Withers.
c. Throat.
d. Shoulder Points.
e. Arm.
f. Knee.
g. Fetlock (fre).
h. Pastern (fore).
1. Foot.
zz. Coronet.
i. Toés,
. Vertebrie of the Neck.
. Bone of the Arm.
. Metacarpal Bones.
2. Horn.
SKELETON AND OTHER PARTS.
13.
14.
Coftin Bone and Hoof.
Vertebre of the Back.
. Vertebre of the Loins,
. Bason Bone.
. Thigh Bone.
. Patella.
. Tibia.
. Fibula.
. Bones in the Hock.
. Metatarsal Bones.
. Pastern Bones.
. The Coffin Bone and Heof.
FAMILIAR TERMS,
Rk.
Body.
7. Quarter.
DE RS BORE
THE Foor.
3. Sole.
. Dock.
. Sheath.
Hock.
Shank.
. Fetlock (hind).
. Pastern (hind).
Foot
. Thigh.
4. Frog.
PROPORTIONS OF THE PERFECT HORSE.
5. Heel.
The whole is
A A, line separating two rectangles which show the Depth of the Body as proportioned
to the Length of the Legs.
B and C, lines dividing off the fore and hind Quarters and the Body, and indicating
their respective and comparative proportions.
Ft. In.
Length of Head, generally....... 1 10 |Across Arm......... acacbeorapanstauaaeee
Across Eyes.......0.-2ss0enee - Oo 9'%]/Across Knee............ 2.00. fo)
Across NOS@s.c.c04 58 2eyadaweneas o 7 |Across Shank under Knee... ... fo)
From Eye to Cheek Bone ....... o 8 {Across Fetlock-Joint...... Po en
Neck across Gullet............66- 1 4 jAcross Pastern..... disses psu s
Middle of Neck...... depyoace «..-. 3% 7 {Across Coronary Bone...........
Across Neck at Body....... seeee 2 O |Highest Part of Hoof............
From Withers to Ground......... 5 2 |Length of Hoof from Toe to Heel.
From Crest of Loins to Ground... 5 «1 |From Rump to Tail..............
From Elbow to Stifle............. 2 4 |From Hip to End of Quarters....
From Elbow to Knee ........... I 5 |Across Hock se SicmnseeBerete-5. 1
From Knee to Ground..... ws. es I 7 {Across Shank below Hock.......
From Withers to Chest........... 2 2 jAcross Fetlock..... beepeaasoa tes
216
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LA PORTE’S STRUCTURE AND PROPORTIONS.
217
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218 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
4
by closing doors, windows, and ventilators, thus keeping the animal ina
temperature warmer than that to which he has been accustomed, and in an
atmosphere made impure by noxious gases and a deficiency of oxygen.
Such treatment will sooner give a horse a cold than an opposite one, for
he may be turned out of a warm stable to grass with little or no injury,
since the loss of heat by extreme cold will be repaired by internal combus-
tion, the oxygen from the cold air acting on the carbon given off from the
lungs, and thus producing carbonic acid, the chief source of animal heat.
Cool air stimulates and invigorates the body, rendering it less liable to dis-
ease; fot air is weakening, for the external temperature being so little be-
low the internal, heat is not required, and a sufficient quantity of oxygen is
not breathed to properly assimilate the large amount of nutritious food
‘still given, which now tends to render the blood impure by excess of car-
bon, and the body more liable to disease. Cool air increases the appetite
by bracing the muscular fibers, especially those of the stomach. Hot air
deranges the liver and organs of digestion. When the temperature is mod-
erate and oxygen is in excess, the carbon is mainly carried off by the lungs;
but if the external heat approaches that of the internal, the carbon, instead
of being removed by the lungs and passed off as carbonic gas, is left to be
borne off by the liver; and thus the liver and digestive organs become de-
ranged. We therefore see how important it is to keep our stables cool,
and at the same time to avoid cold currents of air. The most appropriate
temperature is sixty degrees, and this we should endeavor to maintain dur-
ing both summer and winter, even if the surface of the body must be kept,
warm by a moderate amount of clothing.
Impure air is a much more fruitful source of disease than hot air;
hence the importance of keeping the stable thoroughly clean. The air
which has been breathed, the moisture from sweats, the urine and dung,
are all very poisonous to the horse. The first two can be easily removed
by ventilation. The dung should be frequently cleared away, before the
‘horse has trodden it or the bedding is befouled. Diseased feet as well as
poisonous air often result from rotted dung. The urine should be carefully
taken away by drains before time is afforded for the rising of the odors of
ammonia, which are very hurtful to the health of the animal.
From what has been said above it is clear that a special regard should
be had to ventilation, Pure air consists of eighty parts of oxygen and
twenty parts of nitrogen. Any influence which considerably disturbs this
proportion proves injurious to the health of the horse. Pure blood and
good health depend upon a liberal supply of oxygen. If we open an artery
and immediately examine the blood, we will find it to be a bright-scarlet
color, coming just from the lungs where it has been in contact with air
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THE HORSE~-GENERAL CARE. 219
taken into these organs. The blood in the veins, on the other hand, is of a
dark-red color, bearing the impurities taken from all parts of the system.
By experiment it has been shown that pure oxygen gives this scarlet color
to the blood, while no other gas does. Hencc, it can only be that it is
oxygen which purifies the blood. Again, it is found that, if a horse takes
in one hundred cubic inches of pure air at one breath, he takes about eighty
cubic inches of oxygen and twenty of nitrogen, these being usually very
slightly reduced by traces of carbonic gas. But the one hundred cubic inches
of air thrown from the lungs contains about fifteen of oxygen, eighty of
nitrogen, four of carbonic gas, and one of water-vapor. Thus the air by
breathing loses what is best for life, and takes what is harmful. If the
same air be breathed over time and again, it is clear that it must soon
utterly fail to sustain life, being indeed very poisonous.
When it is known that a horse will breathe about fifty thousand cubic
inches of air in an hour, generating about five thousand cubic inches of car-
bonic gas, some idea may be gained of the demand for provisions for
changing the air often in an occupied stable. Many expcriments have been
made on horses stabled in large numbers, and it has been always shown
that sickness and death are much less frequent when proper room and ven-
tilation are afforded. Suitable ventilation consists, first, in the introduction
of a sufficient quantity of pure air without draught; second, in the removal
of foul air by other outlets than doors or windows. The first part leads to
two important questions, namely, what is a sufficient quantity of air for each
horse, and how is it to be supplied? Each horse requires a space of not less
than two thousand cubic feet, and the air should be changed at least three
times an hour. The windows and inlets for fresh air should be placed well
above the animal, the former so arranged that the wind will not blow
directly on him.
As the space necessary for each horse is too large to be practicable for
most private establishments, we must next consider how we may have
healthy stables with less space. It is quite possible by attending to the fol-
lowing rules of ventilation: First, breathed air being lighter than atmos-
pheric, it ascends toward the roof, passes out if no obstruction is in its way,
and is replaced by pure air admitted from doors, windows, and other inlets.
Secon, if carbonic or other gases be confined by ceiled roofs or otherwise,
they become condensed and diffused, mingling with the pure atmosphere
and rendering it injurious to health. These rules have no reference to cubic
space, but simply require a free outlet above for the impure air, and free
inlet through windows or other openings by which the vacuum can be
instantly filled. The simplest way of carrying out these rules is to do
away with ceilings and lofts overhead, and merely have the sides boarded
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220 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
'
within, which will make the stable neither too hot in summer nor too cold
in winter; but where this cannct be done, air-chambers should be carried up
from the stable roof, and be so guarded by revolving caps as to prevent any
current of air from passing down into the horse’s apartments.
FOOD AND DRINK.
Foop.— Green Fodder.—Grass is the natural food for the horse. Of
its many varieties some possess little nutriment and are of limited value as
food; others are not adapted to the constitution, and lead to diseases often attrib-
uted to other causes, if given as regular food. When the amount of nour-
ishment is small, the animal must take a large bulk to support life, rendering
the belly large, loading the flesh with fat and making it soft and flabby, a
condition unfavorable to quick work. Young horses and those from which
work is not required may be profitably put upon grass that has a mixture of
clover. Putting horses designed for immediate service upon grass is seldom
advisable, as it produces loss in the nervous system, and the limbs are injured
by the extra strain required to get the animal again in condition for work.
A great variety of opinions exists as to the relative amount of nourish-
ment in the different green foods, as clover, timothy, blue grass, lucerne,
green oats, and the like. At first these should be given in small quantities,
mixed with half the usual allowance of hay; but after the first week or
ten days the hay may be discontinued and the quantity of oats be increased,
but not wholly withheld from horses designed for quick work. Clover is
the most fattening, but it is apt to produce colic when given too plentifully
at first.
Roots.—Of roots given to horses the most common are potatoes,
turnips, carrots and parsnips. The first two should be boiled and mixed
with hay and bran; they are good only for farm-horses, and of indifferent
value for them, being merely productive of fat and lacking flesh-forming
principles. Carrots given raw are supposed to be good for the wind, but,
excepting in very small quantities, are unfit for horses doing quick work.
The remarks about carrots apply equally to parsnips; they are generally
chopped and mixed with corn, and when given for a time make the horse
inclined to refuse oats, unless the latter be added to the parsnips. A
horse in good condition is not benefited by them, but if he be hide-bound,
or his skin be unhealthy, they are profitable. They should be given whole,
to prevent choking. Beets are considered good feeding in late spring.
All roots should be mixed with other food to secure their best results.
ay.—Hay may be composed of clover, mixed clover and timothy, blue
grass, or prairie or upland grass. For heavy work and when weight and
1
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a THE WORSE—GENERAL CARE, 221
bulk are desired, pure timothy, or timothy mixed with clover, is the best;
but for road-horses, driving, racing, or any quick work, blue grass or upland
prairie should be used. Hay should be well cured, and if possible be put
up and dried without wetting. It should not be allowed to get-over-ripe, as
in that case the seed will be lost and the stalk lose much of its nourishing
properties. Good hay has a bright-green appearance and sweet odor, and
is pleasant to the taste. As a rule, clover is better adapted to cattle and
sheep than to horses. The guantity of hay necessary for a horse depends
upon his size, constitution, kind of work, and the amount of other food
given. Eight pounds of hay and twelve of oats form a good allowance for
a fairly-worked horse. Clover, hay and straw, cut into chaff, a double-
handful being added to each feed, will be very beneficial.
Straw.—Straw is now often substituted for hay, and by attention to the
following directions will be found quite as good. The nutritive property in
either hay or straw consists in the amount of its nitrogenous principle.
Now, taking the whole of the straw, not including the head, we find by
chemical investigation that it contains one-third as much nitrogenous prin-
ciple as hay; consequently we should give about thirty pounds of straw
daily as an equivalent for ten pounds of hay. The upper third, that is, the
end with the chaff, is found to be almost as suitable for forming flesh as the
best meadow hay, and seven pounds of this will answer for six pounds of hay,
and keep the horse in equally good condition for work.
In this connection may be given the results of experiments made on
sixty thousand horses by a special commission appointed in France.
This successfully overthrows the erroneous cpinions entertained regarding
the value of straw. It was shown that straw is Je¢fer for the constitution
and working condition of horses than hay, although it does not produce in
them an equal bulk when given wode in the same proportion as hay.
During a period of five weeks two sets of horses, each numbering
about seven thousand, were experimented upon. To one class were
given eighteen pounds of straw and nine and one-fifth pounds of oats;
to the other class, eighteen pounds of hay and nine and one-fifth pounds of
oats, the combined weights being the same for each class, the only differ-
ence being an interchange of hay and straw. The horses fed on straw
were vigorous at their work, and did not sweat much. Of those fed on
hay the weight of the body increased, the dung: was copious but hard, dry,
and black; they were covered with sweat when at work, and were much
softer than usual, a fact which is perhaps accounted for by the quantity of
hay being larger than was usually given. In the stable the skin was
warm and dry, the horse yawned often, respiration was impeded, and thirst
was greater than in those fed on oats and straw. There was no change in
~
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222 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
the size of the body of those fed on straw, but those fed on hay increased
in bulk. The results of other experiments may be thus summed up: Oats
and straw are the foods which agree best with the horse, and hay that
which agrees least. Barley comes after oats and straw, then rye. A
mixture of straw with one of these grains would be the best combination.
Horses fed exclusively on oats drink and sweat less than those fed on hay
or straw, and their vigor is superior. Oats and straw, even in less quanti-
ties than hay, would put the horse in better condition and make him more
vigorous.
There is a strong objection to zew hay, but it has no sufficient grounds,
The French commission named above investigated this subject and the
result was that the horses fed on the usual allowance of new hay for two
months were found as hard and vigorous as when fed on old hay. But to
make certain whether new hay had an injurious effect, the daily allowance
was increased one-half, and in all cases, though for fifteen days the horses.
were a little soft, they regained their whole energy and became hardier
and in better condition. New hay therefore is not detrimental but highly
beneficial, if well cured.
Oats.—In feeding oats care should be taken that they ‘be full and
hard, with thin husks, free from dust and pebbles, sweet to the taste,
and agreeable to the smell. One is liable to give his horse too short an
allowance when feeding oats, if he is not observant of the weight, per
bushel by measure, since they vary a great deal. It is found that a horse
wili consume a given ézZ& in oats, and hence the heavier the grain the
more nourishment will the horse get, and it should be determined that he
is getting an adequate amount for the service required. The opinion that
new oats are indigestible and injurious to the kidneys and bowels seems to
lack a full support. That they are not good for horses put to speed is
probably true, but they are not unwholesome for other classes, as has been
shown by horses in the British and French military, where they have been
found equal in fattening properties to the old grain, and do not make the
animal sick. Oats dried ina kiln, especially if they are soft, are nearly or
quite as good as the old. Crushed oats are more readily digested and are
hence more desirable for animals with defective digestion; but if three
parts of these are mixed with one of beans, the result will be improved.
Oats that are musty or have been heated are very injurious, more often
causing disorders than those that are dirty; but injuries attributed to them
are quite often due to mow-heated or musty hay.
Beans and Peas.—These have about the same nutriment and the same
effect on the animal; but they have about twice as much of flesh-forming
principle as oats. In large quantities they are too heavy for food and apt
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THE HORSE—GENERAL CARE. 223.
to derange digestion. A handful, however, mixed with a feed of oats, is.
very beneficial, though this remark applies only to horses doing hard
work. Beans are cheaper and more easily digested, and hence are prefer- '
able. A given measure of either is much more than equal to the same
measure of oats.
Barley.—Barley is fattening, and improves the coating. It is not so.
digestible as oats, unless it be well soaked in water or, still better, kiln-
dried. For horses on the road barley so prepared is superior. If it has
been water-soaked until it has sprouted and then dried, it is good for horses.
that are delicate and refuse other food.
Indian Corn.—lt is best to crack this, or give it in meal, and mix it
with chopped hay and straw. While it is good for horses doing slow work,,
it is not good for those requiring quick action. If the meal be mixed with
twice its weight of cut hay, it makes perhaps the best article for ordinary
feeding; but it is better to combine or alternate this with some mixture of oats.
Bran—Bran is good both for healthy and sick horses. It should not
be given if fine, as it forms too much of a paste and closes the passages in
the membrane. Coarse bran, with hot water poured upon it and covered,
awhile before using, is very good, especially when the horse is temporarily
relieved from labor. Improved milling has, however, so reduced bran that.
the nutrimenc is very small, and care should be taken that the animal be not
compelled to depend too largely upon it. Dry bran mixed with corn will
often improve the mastication.
Quantity and Quality of Food.—Though these differ much according
to the work, age and constitution of the horse, it may be remarked in
general that the growing colt or very active horse requires more food than
others; that more is necessary in cold weather than in warm; that horses.
doing fast work require substantial food in condensed form at regular inter-
vals, given two hours before fust service is required; that those doing fast and
laborious work should have as much as they will eat with a good appetite,
the hay being limited; that those doing slow and not laborious work, as well
as idle ones, should have less grain and more hay or straw, bran and green
food being given at times; that those which purge on rapid work should
not have much water until after the work, and should be fed not-less than
two hours before work, a small quantity of beans being added to each feed.
of oats, and an ounce and a half of flour in the form of paste being added:
to the water when given before work; and, finally, that horses in ill-health
should have soft or cooked food and, when possible, some that is green.
Young horses just put up from grass should have walking exercise.
If a mixture of bran and oats in equal parts be fed, it should be well soaked
in warm water to insure perfect digestion. The following is, perhaps, the
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224 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
best plan: First week, bran-mashes morning and evening, with oats at noon;
second and third week, oats morning and noon, with bran-mashes at night;
thereafter, bran-mashes every second night, with oats at other times.
Comparative Values of Foods.—Animals doing quick work expend
much muscular fiber, and hence require food containing fi4rzue to restore
the loss. Corn and beans furnish this; but hay contains some salt-properties
not in corn, so that it should be added. The brain, too, requires fatty matter,
albumen, and gelatinous elements, and carbon is requisite for animal heat.
The value of foods for the blood depends upon the amount they contain of
the component parts of the blood, as chlorides (including common salt),
phosphates and alkalies. While, as before stated, fibrine and albumen are
highly nutritive for horses doing fast or laborious work, food containing
sugar and starch are especially adapted to the production of fat, and also of
carbon, the generator of heat. The woody part of food is not nutritive,
but supplies the necessary bulk, and gives the moderate distension of the
stomach required for proper digestion. Keeping in mind the foregoing
remarks, one may with tolerable accuracy determine the relative values of
foods for different conditions by an examination of the subjoined table of
« Stonehenge,” which exhibits the proportion of the different constituents
in 100 parts of the various foods named:
Starch Pibrine
Woody and and Fatty Saline Water.
Fiber. Sugar, |Albumen.| Matter. | Matter.
MAY i somes Sa Us cn tasai Sais oe aoe Ow 30 40 7 2 7 14
Clover Hay......sseeeenec seen 25 40 9 3 9 14
at SAW 6 oisisie ac wisiniare easaseiaveta aye 50 31 * 1 a trace GG 12.5
MD AtS i, 6.0. crsier amelie Seletnaien Messrs erst 20 53 11.4 .6 2.5 125
Beansvies sacvosneeameseors sien s 14.5 40 26 2.5 3 14
POS e ic cacotiertinentean tema eed 9 48 24 2 3 14
Barl€ tec. eden tatnee anes sicnrse 14 52 1335 235 3 15
Indian Corn. ....... 0.02 cece eee 6 62 12 5 I 14
BEAM cvcecaes) cave ki nace aoa asa maloieeiny ea 54 2 20 4 vi, 13
Carrots .......6608 ee ee ! 3 10 1.5 ° 136 84
* The upper third, with the head, has about 7.
General Remarks on feeding.
varied according to the length of time the horse works. The feeds should
be at regular intervals. Harnessing is a matter of such short time that the
horse should be unharnessed while feeding and receive grooming when
stabled for feed. xtra quantities of food should not be given in antictpa-
tion of special work, as it will be attended with a waste in undigested food,
or derange the appetite. Brood-mares and colts should be allowed good
yasturage, which may also be accorded with profit to other horses not in con-
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\
THE HORSE—GENERAL CARE. 225
x
stant use, horses engaged in frequent racing always excepted during their
engagements. Where great fleetness is required, grain should be given,
with enough chopped straw or chaff to insure perfect mastication. Grains of
all kinds are best crushed, and when mixed with chaff should be so thoroughly
mingled that they cannot be picked out and the chaff left. Twelve pounds
of oats per day, divided into three feeds, make an average allowance for a
horse in regular work during winter when green food is wanting. An
equivalent for this may be easily chosen from the above table of “ Stone-
henge.” Damaged food of any kind should be avoided, the feeding of it
being mistaken and foolish economy. The most successful breeders persist
in feeding a little hay at night in the rack, despite the prejudice against this
method. It is better to slightly moisten the hay with salt-water, to prevent
dust and impart a relish. The hay should be of the best quality, and be
given in smal! quantities, for the practice of putting large amounts in a rack
proves very wasteful.
Drink.—By noting the amount of moisture thrown out by the lungs,
mouth and skin, one gains an idea of the absolute necessity of caring for
proper drinking to keep up the normal condition of the body. But usual
“care should be exercised that the amount may not be so great as to keep
the animal weakened. The quantity which a horse will consume varies
greatly—from about four gallons per day to four or five times this amount; in
special instances even the last amount has been surpassed very much. The
horse should be watered, as a rule, three times a day; in cold weather, and
in absence of work, twice is sometimes sufficient, while in hot weather,
during work, three times are not enough. In the latter case a small allow-
ance may be given just before the feed and as much, if it is taken, before
the meal is finished. In other cases, water should usually not be given
within an hour before feeding, nor when the animal is warm. The horse
at work should not be allowed an unlimited supply, but a small amount
should be given at each time, and at frequent intervals. Though hard
water may not injure the horse that is accustomed to it, soft, clean water
is always decidedly better. Very cold water is never good, and often in-
jures, if it does not kill the horse. Pure, cool water is the best.
GROOMING, BATHING, EXERCISE AND CLIPPING.
Groominc.—Grooming is positively essential for both the appearance
and the health of the horse. The watery portions of the body and worn-
out material pass out through the pores of the skin, and if these be clogged
by scurf, this refuse material must pass away through the lungs, liver, kid-
neys and bowels, causing derangement of these parts. Not only are the
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226 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
pores kept open by grooming, but the vessels and pores as well are stimu-
lated to increased action, und thus the oil at the roots of the hair passes
through the skin, giving a fine glossy appearance to the animal. The
horse should be groomed in the open air, unless the weather is bad. Even
the apparent injury from cold air is more than balanced by the
increased warmth secured by the friction. The curry-comb should ke
used sparingly, and a stiff, hard brush be briskly applied. Rubbing the
legs downward with the hand is very beneficial, Horses that are not
housed and those which are turned out just after work should merely have
the mud, dust, dried sweat and the like removed when they are turned out
or taken up, the skin to be left undisturbed. The use of a soft brush, or
of a dry cloth passed lightly over the hair, will generally suffice.
WasHING AFTER WorkK.—If properly done, this is to be highly
recommended. We all know from experience how refreshed we feel after
a warm bath, and it is but reasonable to suppose that it will have a like
effect upon the horse, and render him less lable to inflammation and con-
gestion of any internal organ, as well as give him the quiet which he
needs, The proper mode of washing is to apply quite warm water and
soap quickly and freely to the whole surface and scrape it as dry as pos-
sible, then rub with wash-leathers for ten minutes, not longer. The usual
clothing should then be put on and be covered with an extra blanket, the
legs being bandaged with flannels. The animal should now have some
grain-gruel and afterward some bran-mashes. After two hours in this con-
dition the body becomes warm, and the outside blanket, which will be wet,
should be removed and the horse be well bedded.
Dry bandages should be used for drying the legs or warming them.
Wet, warm bandages tone up the vessels and relieve them by removing
heat. Wet, cold bandages produce sweating and carry off some of the
contents of the vessels; but if the cold bandage be not kept cool in some
way, it will soon act as if it were originally warm. Wet bandages are de-
sirable in cases of sprains, blows, and long exertion on hard roads, but
should not be continued longer than is actually necessary, or they may have
an effect the opposite of the one desired, which is to excite evaporation
and to remove deposits from the interstices of the flesh. If applied too
long, they inflame the skin, and cause the hair to fall.
CLoTHinG.—Horses doing slow work and having their natural coat
are better without any clothing. But clothing is far preferable to a hot
stable, and as a glossy coat is very desirable, the horse should be warmly
clothed, and the stable be kept cool and well ventilated.
Exercise.—This is absolutely necessary to promote digestion and
otherwise preserve health. Quick work is injurious directly after feeding,
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THE HORSE—GENERAL CARE. 227
or when the horse has just been taken from pasture. Young horses should
be given walking exercise two hours daily for the first month of training;
during the second, be s/owly trotted, the speed being but gradually in-
creased thereafter. One of the most prolific causes of disorders in the feet
and breathing organs is the lack of regular exercise properly given,
Horses in'steady and easy work are presumed to receive the best exercise.
If only occasional extreme work is required, there is all the more demand
for systematic training or exercise, as it hardens the muscles, and fits the
horse for the severe strain put upon him. :
The horse should not be taken out immediately after feeding, nor
should he be put beyond a moderate foot-pace for at least a half-hour there-
after. Then he may be quickened according to the demands upon him.
Heating in exercise should be avoided, but if it be induced, the animal
should be walked before returning to the stable, until he is cool.
Feeding should always precede the exercise by at least a half-hour.
The horse may then be taken out for an hour and a half in the forenoon
and afternoon each, the hours to be chosen, according to the season, when
it will not be excessively warm or cold. One of the commonest mistakes
in the care of horses is blanketing immediately after the animal has entered
the stable after hard driving or working. At such times vapor will rapidly
rise for a few minutes and wet the blanket. As soon as it becomes cold
the horse will be covered with a cold, wet coat, with no chance for an es-
cape of the moisture, and thus almost surely be subjected to a chill. The
proper course is to allow the steaming horse to stand for about ten minutes
before putting on the blanket, thus giving an opportunity for a great part
of the vapor to pass off.
Curppinc.—This is both an injury to the horse and a folly of fashion.
It is purely artificial and utterly unnecessary. Still more, it does not se-
cure greater beauty, a better looking animal being secured by a reasonable
care of the coat which nature has given. Indeed, a well-groomed coat
produces a gloss for an unshorn horse that is superior to any artificial ap-
pearance, while the exposure incident to clipping is apt to create disorders
of the hair and skin that will make a revival of the natural beauty impossible.
This practice should be studiously avoided, because it attains no advantage,
and is highly injurious, if not cruel, especially in extreme weather.
THE STABLE.
It has been said that about 60° is the proper temperature of the stable
as atule. In summer, however, the stable should be kept as cool as pos-
sible, especially during the day. It is a mistaken idea that the temperature
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228 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
should be kept on a level with the outdoor air. Indeed, in keen, frosty
weather the temperature within should be much above that outside. It is
not only not advantageous to expose a horse to cold when he is inactive in
a stable, with a view to inuring him to severity when he is taken out, but it
is very injurious. The exercise when out of doors will compensate fora
great change in temperature. But more caution is necessary, on the whole,
to prevent too high a temperature in the stable, since it will greatly increase
the poisonous gases arising from the excrements and other refuse of the
stable, which are more injurious to health than a much lower temperature.
Bedding.—This should have constant attention, and be kept
thoroughly clean. Many of the coughs in horses which are closely stabled
are undoubtedly traceable to a neglect of this important part of their care.
Even among a few horses the foul matter in any part of the stable, and
the notoriously poisonous exhalations of the same, prove highly deleterious.
In cold weather, when the closeness of the stable prevents a free circula-
tion of the air, special care should be taken. It is not enough that the ma-
nure and wet litter be removed from the stall; they should be carried ez¢zrely
out of the stable, the stall itself being kept as dry as possible. When
standing in the stable the horse should always have a liberal supply of
bedding, of which the best are wheat and oatstraw, though peastraw
is good. Sawdust is reasonably good, but when it is wet it is more liable
than straw to impart dampness to the stall. The floor should be swept
before the bedding is put down for the night; then the litter should be
carefully arranged, being higher at the sides than in the middle.
CARE OF THE FEET.
The feet are liable to so many mishaps and disorders that they need
scrupulous care. They should be examined frequently—the careful man
will do this daily—to see if any untoward condition exists. The shoes
should receive special attention to detect any misfit, looseness, irregular
pressure, and the like, and to discover any injuries to the feet and joints
from the rims or nails on other feet. They should be drawn and re-set or
replaced with new ones at intervals of from four to six weeks. When the
horse is turned out, they should be taken entirely away, or should give
place to the grazing-shoe.
Heels with little hair should be sponged and carefully dried after a
journey, and those with long or thick hair should be cleansed from dirt by
hand-rubbing or otherwise. Horses that stand much in the stable should
have a dirt floor, and in dry weather their feet may be washed occasion-
ally, but such washing should be done quickly, particularly if the horse
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THE HORSE—GENERAL CARE. 229
.
has first been in active exercise, and the feet should be thoroughly dried.
Excessive washing and soaking is very injurious. To be sure, it is im-
portant that the feet and legs be kept clean, but this can be so well done
by thorough brushing and rubbing that frequent washing is unnecessary.
Shoeing.—Few things in the care of the horse are so intimately as-
sociated with his comfort and suffering as shoeing. Disorders arising from
it are numerous and often impair or destroy his usefulness, as will be shown
by a reference to the ailments treated in the preceding pages, particularly
those of the extremities. For two reasons no detailed directions will be
here given upon this important subject: First, the writer has noticed that
such attempts in works similar to this have signally failed in imparting an
The Foot dissected to exhibit Tendons, Blood-
Vessels, and other Sensitive Parts. This, with cut
198, shows that the Foot is very susceptible to In-
SECTION OF THE Foor (see cut 173), ‘juries.
intelligible idea of even what is needed, this doubtless being due to the
fact that shoeing is a matter of practice, not to be learned in the first in-
stance from books; second, even if it were possible to present an adequate
treatise for the general reader, he would still be dependent upon the smith.
If such smiths were to pay for the horses which they ruin by improper
shoeing, it is doubtful whether they would have any profits whatever from
this department of their handiwork. It is, however, urged that one do
not intrust aservice of such great moment to an inexperienced man, but that
he repair to one of known intelligence and skill, even if that involves the
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230 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
taking of his horse a long distance. If one’s horse suffers from some acute
disease, he will go almost any distance to secure competent counsel, but
with strange inconsistence, or thoughtlessness, he will lead him into the
shed of any blacksmith who can boast of enough muscle to “hold up any
horse,” notwithstanding the risk he runs of having the animal permanently
injured, or wholly unfitted for use. The foot is a very sensitive member,
copiously supplied with delicate layers, blood-vessels and exquisitely fitting
bones and tendons, and he is a wise master who most jealously regards
this part of his horse’s organism. The accompanying cuts will serve to
show how complicated and sensitive the foot is, and the writer hopes they
will serve to make the reader particularly careful in the choice of a man
who shall pare, hammer and nail it.
Ce |
(HR
END OF PART TI.
UK)
Prjeratry Ae Aan
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PART I.
THE OX AND HIS DISEASES.
231
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, SS.
TuHE Bones OF THE Ox.
1, Upper Jaw-Bone. 2, Nasal Bone. 3, Lachrymal Bone. 4, Cheek-Bone. 5, Forehead. 6, Horns.
¥, Temporal. 8, Parietal. 9, Occipital. 10, Lower Jaw-Bone. 11, Grinders. 12, Nippers. 13, Ligament of the
Neck. 14, Joints of the Back. 15, Atlas, 16, Dentata. 17, Eye-Socket. 18, Vertebra of the Neck. 1
Vertebre of the Back. 20, Vertebre of the Loins. 21,Sacrum. 22, Bones of the Tail. 23, Haunch an
Pelvis. 24, Eight True Ribs. 25, False Ribs. 26, Breast-Bone. 27, Shoulder-Blade. 28, Humerus,
29, Radius. 40, Ulna. 41, Bones of the Knee. 42, Shank. 43, Splint 44, Sesamoid. 45, Large Pasterns,
46, Small Pasterns. 47, Coffin, 48, Navicular. 49, Thigh. 50, Knee-Pan. 51, Tibia, 52, Point of Hock.
53, Small Bones of the Hock. 54, Metatarsal. 55, Pasterns and Feet.
SKETCH OF THE Ox.
1, Muzzle. 2, Nostrils. 3, Forehead and Face. 4, Eye. 5, Horn and Ear. 6, Neck and Throat.
4, Breast. 8, Brisket. 9, Shoulder-Point. 10, Shoulder. 11, Fore-Arm, 12, Crops. 13, Fore-Ribs. 1
Fore-Flank. 15, Back. 16, Back-Ribs. 17, Belly. 18, Loins. 19, Flank. 20, Hip. 21, Rump. 22, Tat
and Seton. 23, Quarters. 24, Thigh. 25, Twist (between the Thighs). 26, Testes. 27, Knee and Gam-
brel. 28, Leg. 29, Hoof.
232
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PART II.
THE OX AND HIS DISEASES*
CHAPTER I.
THE NERVOUS SYSTEM.
MAD STAGGERS AND BRAIN FEVER.
AD staggers and brain fever are quite frequent among cattle, and’
come on rapidly from exposure to a hot sun or sudden change of
temperature; or may follow ill-usage, high feeding, excess of
Symptoms.—Mad Staggers ave marked by seaving flanks; wild, red,
staring eyes; nostrils enlarged; furious delirium and frenzy; (the animal is
unconscious, while in rabies it is not so—a distinction that should be care-
fully noted); animal exhausted, and finally motionless. Zz Brain Fever,
the general symptoms of mad staggers are present, and in addition a marked
aversion to red bodies during the frenzy; frightful bellowing; incessant and
furious galloping; arched tail; the skin adheres closely to the flesh; spine and
adjacent parts very tender; the animal falls headlong, and lies in a stupors.
from the first, vivid redness and prominence of the eyes; dullness and
drowsiness; thick, heavy, difficult breathing.
TREATMENT.—Give aconite for fever; delirium; red eyes; dry, hot
skin. For great heat and swelling of the head, blood-shot eyes, delirium
and frenzy, thirst, sensitiveness to light and noise, wild expression, give
belladonna, which is also usually serviceable in the beginning, in alternation
with aconite at intervals of from one to three hours according to the
severity. For stupor, sudden starts, and involuntary passages of dung, give
hyoscyamus. Bryonia is needed for stupor with delirium. Opium is demanded.
* See “Signs of Health and Disease,” Chapter I, Part I.
233
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234 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
‘by stupor with giddiness, half-closed, glassy eyes, constipation, and slow,
feeble pulse. Give arnica externally and internally once in an hour, or
-oftener in extreme cases, if the cause is some external injury.
Gelseminum, a wine-glassful of a mixture of twenty drops of tincture
in a pint of water, given every two hours, is valuable in cases resulting from
‘exposure to the sun, with weakness of the muscles and enlarged pupils
of the eyes.
For further information, consult this disorder in the Horse. Keep the
animal perfectly quiet. When the violence of the symptoms subsides, give
‘soft food that is easily digested and readily taken.
APOPLEXY.
Apoplexy has causes similar to those of Brain Fever, but is much more
rapid in its attack. For symptoms, treatment, and general care, consult the
article on Brain Fever above, and on Apoplexy in the Horse.
PARALYSIS.
This is a, loss of nervous power in the muscles, and may affect one
muscle or many. It occurs mainly in old cattle in bleak countries, cold, un-
healthy stables, or those exposed to cold after warm stabling.
Symptoms.—Legs, generally the hind ones, cold and weak, then stiff,
dragging and resting on the pasterns; then the animal becomes unable to
stand and sits on its haunches.
TREATMENT.—Keep the animal warm and well supplied with litter;
change to nourishing food; turn the animal over two or three times a day.
For further information, consult Paralysis in the Horse.
HYDROPHOBIA.
Hydrophobia occurs more frequently in the cow than in the horse,
and results from the bite of a rabid animal.
Symptoms.— Loud and frequent hollow bellowing; stamping and but-
ting; sometimes return of the food into the mouth about the third day; the
secretion of milk diminishes; foaming at the mouth; paralysis; death in from
four to seven days; consciousness throughout.
TREATMENT.— Wash the wound well with warm water and some dis-
infectant; then burn it with an iron, or apply strong nitric acid. Dress then
with a strong carbolic acid lotion, or lime-water and oil. Belladonna and
stramonium may afterward be used. When the case is fully developed
medicine will generally be of little avail.
J
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THE OX—THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 235
Tie the animal securely in a close stall, shutting out most of the light
and much of the air. Give light, nutritious, condensed food. When a
rabid animal has been in a herd, belladonna should be given daily for ten
or twelve days to each animal asa protection against possible infection.
For further information, see the article on Hydrophobia in the Horse.
LOCK-JAW.
This may result from some general disorder of the stomach, or from
injuries (see Lock-jaw in the Horse for detailed causes, noting those to
which cattle are subject).
Symptoms.
afterward grows more marked; fixed, inflamed eyes; hind legs stiff; walk-
ing difficult and awkward; quick and labored breathing, the breath being
hot; neck and ears very stiff; finally, the whole body is stiff; copious sweats;
At first, only some stiffness in the gait, jaws and neck, which
the general spasm may increase every twelve or twenty-four hours for some
time, and then slowly abate, become less regular, and finally disappear; or
may grow more violent until a very severe one results in death.
TREATMENT.
eral condition, give ten drops of camphor every twenty minutes zx the first
stages until warmth returns to the system. Belladonna is invaluable after
For cases occasioned by cold or wet, or depressed gen-
camphor, given every hour until the jaws become less rigid, when the
interval between doses should be increased. If constipation be present,
give nux vomica every four or six hours, or in alternation with belladonna.
Constipation is further relieved by injections of warm water and soap. If
inflammation occurs, give a few doses of aconite, following with the
remedy next demanded by the symptoms mentioned above. If injuries be
the cause, give arnica, alone or in alternation with belladonna, aconite or.
nux vomica, every one, two, three or four hours, according to urgency.
Between the paroxysms, the jaws being relaxed, offer food that is easily
digested, such as gruel, boiled turnips and oats, mashes of boiled grain and
bran. Should the animal be unable to eat for some time, clear out the
bowels by an injection of tepid water, and inject oatmeal-gruel. For
further equally important information, select such as is obviously applicable
to the ox from that given on Lock-jaw in the Horse.
CONVULSIONS.—FITS.
This disorder, not common in the ox, may occur in young, well-fed
cattle, especially when excited by over-exertion or heat. When it has
once occurred, a recurrence is more liable to ensue.
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236 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
TREATMENT.—Give belladonna every two or three hours. Opium
may be serviceable if there be stupor and hard, heavy breathing. Keep
the animal in a large stable where there is little chance for it to injure itself.
For full directions, consult all that is said on Convulsions in the Horse.
GIDDINESS.—DIZZINESS.
This occurs more frequently in draught-oxen, and is caused by hard
labor in a hot sun, or a tight, ill-fitting or squeezing yoke.
Symptoms.—Tottering and falling, the animal lying outstretched
and motionless. It may be easily distinguished from Convulsions, for in
.the latter there are violent convulsive movements. For full particulars,
consult the appropriate article on the Horse as given in Part I.
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CHAPTER, II.
THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY.
¥/ HE stomach of the ox, sheep and other ruminants is so peculiar as
to call for special mention. It consists of four so-called stomachs.
The first, known as the rzen, or paunch, is much the largest; its
ee? mucous membrane is rough, with elevations or papilla, and is pro-
tected by a dense, scaly membrane. The second stomach, called the vefzc-
alum, or honey-comb, is the smallest of the four, and is connected with the
2)
SS
STOMACH OF THE Ox.
A, Rumen (left half). B, Rumen (right half). C, Lower end of the Gsophagus. D, Reticulum.
E,Omasum. F, Abomasum.
front part of the paunch, with which it freely communicates. The third
stomach is named the omasum, or maniplies, the latter term being derived
from the many folds of the membranes; its numerous membranes are of
237
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238 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
different sizes, and their surfaces are copiously supplied with papilie;
its contents are dry. The fourth stomach, called the abomasum, or rennet,
performs substantially the same functions as that of man, 1s larger than the
second and third but smaller than the first, is covered with a thick, velvety
coat that has ridges similar to those of the omasum, and secretes an acid
that is necessary to digestion.
The first three stomachs are involved in the process of rumination.
Crushed food passes first into the rumen, or paunch, and is there heated in
saliva, mucus and other secretions, its toughness determining the time it is
to be so retained. The food next enters the reticulum, where the softening
and dissolving are continued,
being aided by a slow churning
movement. Sluids that are
swallowed pass directly into
this organ without going to
SECTION OF THE STOMACH OF THE OX.
STOMACH OF THE Ox, exposing A, Left Sac of the Rumen. _B, Front extremity of the same
parts of the interior. turned back on the Right Sac, its rear extremity being C.
G, Section of the front Pillar of the Rumen. og, Its two upper
a, CEsophagus. 6, Rumen. c, Re- branches. H, Rear Pillar of the same. hhh, Its three lower
ticulum. d@, Omasum. e, Abomasum. branches. I, Cells of the Reticulum. J, Furrow of the
f, Duodenum. Esophagus. K, Esophagus, L, Abomasum.
the paunch, In this stomach secretions ferment the food or produce other
chemical changes, reducing the contents to a pulpy mass. In the next
place the food passes back to the teeth and is thoroughly masticated, this
process being known as rumination, or “chewing the cud.” The return
of the food is easily detected, for one may see large masses pass up the
gullet which is distended as in swallowing, though the movement is in the
opposite direction. When the food passes into the mouth its liquid parts
are immediately swallowed into the first three stomachs; and the solid food
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THE OX—THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 239)
is slowly ground by the teeth a longer or shorter time according to its.
toughness. When sufficiently ground the food is again swallowed, some:
into the first two stomachs, but the greater part into the third, thence into:
the fourth where the digestion is completed. Because of the tendency ot
liquids to pass directly into the second or third stomach there is some dan-
ger that in administering medicine by drenches or other mechanical means.
the desired results may be defeated, and even damage be incurred. Hence,
in giving medicine to the ox or sheep it is always best when possible to.
induce the animal to swallow it voluntarily.
HOOVE.—GRAIN OR CLOVER SICKNESS.
This is a distension of the stomach caused by decomposition or fer-.
mentation of food, or by eating unusual articles of food. Rich grazing
after poor or scanty food, wet grass in warm weather, fodder heated by
being heaped up when wet, drinking cold water excessively, eating too
much grain, bran, chaff, raw potatoes and oats, or boiled turnips, may
cause the disorder.
Symptoms.—These appear soon and suddenly; loss of appetite and
cud; whole body swollen, especially at the flanks, which give forth a drum-
like sound when struck; sour and noisy belchings; moans and distress;
animal stands still; short, difficult breathing; nostrils spread; threatened
suffecation; the pulse grows harder, fuller and quicker; mouth hot and full
of frothy slobber; eyes glazed, fixed, and blood-shot; the tongue hangs:
veins of the neck and chest swollen; back arched; legs drawn under the
body; tail curved; protruding anus; cold sweat; the animal finally totters,
falls, struggles, discharges sour fluid and solid food from the nose and mouth;
suffocation or rupture of the stomach, leading to death.
The distension of the stomach by gas may be distinguished from that.
arising from impacted food by a study of the table here used, which is.
taken from the excellent work of Lord: and Rush.
DISTENSION FROM GAS.
The left flank, on pressure, feels soft,
elastic, and yielding to the fingers. On
percussion, sounds hollow and drum-like.
Frequent belching; the wind which es-
capes has an offensive smell.
Respiration quick, short and puffing.
Position: Standing; head stretched for-
ward; unable to move; moans, and appears
in great distress; eyes red and staring.
DISTENSION FROM IMPACTED FOOD,
The left flank, on pressure, feels solid;.
does not yield readily to the fingers on per-
cussion; on being struck, sounds dull.
_No belching or eructation of wind,
Respiration not much interfered with.
Position: Lying down, and is with diffi-
culty induced to move; looking dull and:
listless.
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240 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
TREATMENT.—At first give ammonium causticum, ten drops every ten
or fifteen minutes. Colchicum rarely fails, particularly in cases resulting
from vegetable food. Repeat it several times if necessary. It is valuable,
in alternation with arsenicum, in chronic hoove. Colocynth is beneficial,
given every twenty minutes. If the lungs are much implicated, give
bryonia in alternation with aconite. For founder from wet clover, a mouth-
ful or two of corn on the cob is a popular and valuable remedy, often suffi-
‘cient without other expedients. When matters have become improved, allow
no food or water for several hours, and these should be sparing for some
time afterward. Give nux vomica two or three times daily until the animal
is fully cured.
Stabbing or puncturing in very urgent cases may be required, but
should be resorted to only then. It is best to use a trocar, sufficiently long
to prevent the paunch from slipping away from it. In the absence of this
along, sharp-pointed penknife may be used. Ata point midway between
the ribs and the hips insert the knife, pointing it inward and downward,
where the rumen is most prominent, insert a quill or other tube into the
opening at once; or in the absence of such, hold the wound open with a
smooth stick until the gas has escaped. With this gas solid food may come
out; and here is the danger, and not in the wound itself. Should this food
escape into the abdomen instead of passing out freely, 1t will cause inflam-
mation of the abdominal organs; or, as another difficulty, the kidneys
or spleen may be pierced. After such relief, chloride of lime is valuable,
two drachms being mixed in a quart of water and thus administered.
GRASS STAGGERS.—DRY MURRAIN.
This results from a retention of food in the third stomach, instead
of its passage into the. fourth stomach. Fine, dry, hard matters become
tightly compressed in some cases, and so closely adhere to the mucous:
membranes of the folds that their removal causes the loss of the thick
membrane which lines the organ; in other cases, soft, souring masses are
inclosed in the folds. In either case, nutrient food is not passed into the
fourth stomach. Sometimes the folds are gangrenous, and the fourth
stomach highly inflamed. It is occasionally epidemic, and its causes are
supposed to be bad or coarse food, and sudden changes of diet.
Symptoms.—Excitement, perhaps delirium, followed by dullness and
quietness; hanging head; indifference; dry muzzle; hanging tongue; promi-
nent red eyes; constipation; red nasal membrane; high-colored urine; rapid,
hard pulse; stoppage of milk, or it becomes poor; later, trembling; loss of
consciousness; swollen belly; cold limbs; death.
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THE OX—THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS, 241
TREATMENT.—For high fever, quick pulse, dry, hot muzzle, very hot
horns and ears, and varying temperature of limbs, ears and muzzle, give
aconite. Give nux vomica in alternation with aconite, every three or four
hours until the fever subsides, then alone three or four times a day. Ar-
senicum and sulphur will be needed in some cases, particularly when the
dung is thin, watery and offensive. If the case has been neglected, or is
symptomatic of another disorder, or has become chronic, it will take a
good while for the stomach to return to its normal condition. Make a
complete change in diet and allow only such food as is easily digested.
ULCERATED MOUTH.
This is contagious and often attacks a whole herd.
Symptoms.—Red, hot mouth; diminished appetite and milk, the lat-
ter being watery; in a few days a small red eruption in the mouth, which
enlarges to various sizes, becoming white, bursting, and leaving a scab;
eating stopped; drinking with dribbles. If the tongue, in mild cases, does
not gradually cleanse, the sores join and become of a leaden color, leaving
corroding ulcers which carry off small pieces of the membrane; inflamed
throat; cough; offensive breath; loss of flesh.
TREATMENT.—Give mercurius three times daily. If the disease does
not yield, give one grain of antimonium tartaricum two or three times
daily. Sulphur may be required if there be dry, hot mouth; offensive
breath; ulcerations with scabs. Rinse the mouth with Condy’s Fluid.
THRUSH.
Thrush is an inflammatory fungoid disorder, consisting in minute vesi-
cles which end in white sloughs in the mouth and discharge a fluid, after
which they become ulcers that run together; the lining peels off, leaving a
tender surface that prevents eating. There is a profuse flow of stringy
saliva from the mouth and loss of flesh. It is caused by poor food, irritat-
ing plants, or constitutional disease; in calves, by the mother’s milk. These
symptoms should be observed carefully, that thrush may not be mistaken
for Rinderpest. From Foot and Mouth Disease it is known by its not
being epidemic or contagious, or associated with disease of the feet and
teats. Thrush usually attacks calves.
TREATMENT.—If the tongue or mouth is covered with blisters, and
stringy saliva flows from the mouth, give mercurius every four hours until
the case is improved. In the first stages, the vesicles may be removed by
washing the mouth three times daily with a solution of chlorate of potassa,
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242 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
ten grains to an ounce oz water, and as often giving a tablespoonful of a
mixture of ten drops of kali bichromicum to one pint of water. When
the worst symptoms have yielded to mercurius or other remedies, and the
animal remains poor, dull, and with loss of appetite, give three grains of
arsenicum three times daily. Muriatic acid, phosphoric acid, and borax
may be found of service. In case of calves, give the mother a clean, com-
fortable stable, and administer sulphur to her; give the same to the calf,
night and morning, for a few days after the disease has subsided.
INFLAMMATION OF THE TONGUE.
This is caused by some wound, and is indicated by a great swelling of
the tongue, the latter hanging out of the mouth; feeding is stopped; the
tongue sometimes becomes hard; perhaps swelling of the throat.
TREATMENT.—Give mercurius if there is great swelling of the tongue
and throat, and aconite if there is much fever. If the inflammation be
dry, give nitric acid. For hardness of the tongue give carbo vegetabilis.
If the tongue is injured, give arnica, and wash the mouth with a weak lo-
tion of the same; in these cases arsenicum and lachesis are also serviceable.
GLOSS ANTHRAX.—BLACK TONGUE.—BLAIN.
This is connected with some peculiar state of the atmosphere, and is
highly contagious and usually fatal, being communicable even to man.
Symptoms.—lIt is sudden in its attacks. There are profuse saliva,
swollen tongue, general distress and fever; on the tongue are small vesicies
full of matter, or tubercles surrounded with a bluish circle; the vesicles
burst and give out offensive matter; on the tubercles are yellowish-white
pustules, sometimes the size of a nut, which turn brown; these are filled
with a thin, corroding fluid, which inflames and destroys the surrounding
parts; the head and throat swell enormously; breathing obstructed; threat-
ened or actual suffocation; large ulcers may form on and near the tongue,
so that it ts wholly gangrenous and insensible, gives out no blood when
cut, and falls away piece by piece. Occasionally ulcers form in the
feet, discharging offensive matter. A low typhus-condition ensues in severe
cases, and death occurs with great suffering, shivering, and swelling of the
belly.
TREATMENT.— Take the case in its first stages, or it will probably
be too late, especially if the vesicles have broken and some of their con-
tents have been swallowed. Mercurius is desirable for whitish pustules;
canker; ulcerated mouth and tongue; red, offensive discharge, and profuse
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saliva. Give arsenicum, ten drops every three hours, for bleeding from
the nostrils; threatened gangrene; small, rapid pulse; offensiveness in the
mouth; weakness; diarrhcea; cold extremities; drowsiness. Midway be-
tween the doses give the mouth a thorough washing with carbolic-acid lo-
tion. This may be given in alternation with mercurius. Should the
remedies named fail, put two grains of carbolic acid in a little water, and
give the dilution once every two hours. If there be a full, hard pulse, dry,
hot skin, much thirst, red, swollen eyes, head and mouth, give aconite
every two hours. If three or four doses effect an improvement, but
drowsiness, wildness of look, and swelling of the head, tongue and throat
remain, alternate aconite and belladonna. If no such improvement occurs,
give bryonia every three or four hours, alone or alternated with rhus. For
drowsiness, exhaustion, and involuntary or bloody diarrhcea, give phos-
phoric acid. Opium is needed if there be hot, dry skin, small, rapid pulse,
drowsiness, and involuntary diarrhea. Give good gruel in small. quanti-
ties, or other simple, nutritious food, pouring it gently down the throat if
it is refused (to do which a horn will seldom be required); and leave some
at hand for the animal to take if it will, Keep the animal away from
others.
Caution.—Attendants have been infected with the virus with fatal re-
sults. Before handling the animal or the objects which it touches, cover
the hands with gloves or oil, or both, and take special pains to prevent any
sore on the hands or other parts from touching the animal. These cautions
suggest the necessity of keeping other domestic animals at a safe distance
from the stall, drinking-trough, dishes, or other articles, and from the past-
ure in which the infected one has been.
LOSS OF APPETITE.—LOSS OF CUD.
If this occurs without other marks of sickness, examine the food to
see if it is perfectly good, and the mouth to discover disordered teeth, ul-
cers, injuries, thrush, inflammation, or foreign substances. These are causes,
as well as an overloaded stomach, poor digestion, and over-exertion.
TREATMENT.—If poor food be the cause, and the animal be weak and
dull, or if there be diarrhea, give arsenicum a half-hour before feeding
night and morning, for a week or two. If there be poor digestion, dry,
and hard dung and constipation, give nux vomica instead of arsenicum.
If there be added to loss of appetite, diarrhcea, cold feet and loss of thirst,
give pulsatilla. If some disease be the cause, that must be treated first.
Do not compel a sick animal to eat. Be sure that the food is perfectly
good. Achange of diet will often be sufficient.
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EXCESSIVE OR DEPRAVED APPETITE.
Either of these conditions indicates a bad state of the system. The
animal may eat greedily, and even take uncommon food, but still grows lean.
TREATMENT.—Give pulsatilla every few hours for four or five days;
sepia and nux vomica will also be of service. Cina is needed if worms are
the cause. Give cold water and good fresh food, not in excessive quantities.
INDIGESTION.
Indigestion results from greedy eating after a long fast; poor or irreg-
ular food; abrupt transitions from dry to green feed, or from green to dry;
insufficient feeding; impure water; pasturing in fields wet with dew; in
calves, excess of improper food, such as bran and water, when weaned
too soon,
Symptoms.—Loss of appetite, cud, and (in cows) of the milk; .aver-
sion to food; belching; foul, coated tongue; colic; hard and infrequent
passages of dung; sometimes diarrhea.
TREATMENT.—Aconite and nux vomica are needed for quick pulse,
hot horns and ears, and variable temperature of the limbs, given alter-
nately every three or four hours. For distended paunch give ammonium
causticum. For much debility and diarrhea use arsenicum; in some cases
it is better to alternate it with china, especially if diarrhea has stopped.
If the cud is lost, the dung soft and offensive, and the animal coughs and
moans, give pulsatilla. Feed bran and boiled oats, and if hay is given, it
is better to soften it in hot water, allowing the animal to drink the remain-
ing fluid. Give calves rye bran, or boiled wheat, not leaving any to sour.
INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH.—GASTRITIS.
Inflammation of the stomach is a disorder of the lining membrane of
the fourth stomach (see page 736), generally involving the duodenum, and
usually accompanying inflammation of the bowels. It is frequently fatal.
For its causes, read those given under Inflammation of the Bowels.
Symptoms.—Dejection; scraping the ground with the fore feet; strik-
ing the belly with the hind feet; groans; lowings; grinding teeth; red
eyes; looking at the flanks; cold feet, ears and horns; dry muzzle; belly
swollen and tender; vomiting; diarrhea; milk thin, yellowish, stringy and
irritating, or wholly stopped, sometimes reddish and offensive; spasm and
colic, sometimes creating frenzy; loss of appetite and cud; tongue con-
tracted, straighter and rounder than usual, occasionally yellow or green.
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TREATMENT.—In the first place give aconite every thirty or sixty
minutes if the pain is severe; the extremities very hot and cold alternately;
the pulse full and quick; the body tender. It should be continued at
longer intervals if the animal improves under it. Next give bryonia; it
may be alternated with aconite if there be intense pain in the beily and
costiveness. For heavy breathing, grunting, constipation, dejection and
‘pains, give nux vomica. Antimonium crudum is desirable for white or
yellowish tongue. For much vomiting ipecac is needed. Give belladonna
and hyoscyamus in alternation every two or three hours for delirium and loss
of consciousness. Opium is needed for great stupor, and when other medi-
cines fail. For cold extremities and rapid decline of strength give arseni-
‘cum and veratrum in alternation every two or three hours. No solid food
should be allowed until improvement has commenced. Before that, give
small quantities of fluid food, as oatmeal or flour gruel and water.
WOOD-EVIL.—RED-W ATER.—MOOR-ILL.
Moor-ill is an inflammation of the fourth stomach (see page 736),
frequently involving the lungs, and attended with fullness of the mani-
plies. It is caused by marshy pasturage, frozen roots and herbs, bad winter
food, and buds of trees eaten in spring after long feeding on dry winter
fodder.
Symptoms.—Dejection; fever; stumbling with hind feet; hot surface
and breath; quick, hard pulse; staring coat; dry nose and mouth; constant
thirst; eyes and nostrils red; hide-bound; chewing of cud rare and slow;
scanty, bloody, dry and black dung; scanty, high-colored, bloody and
strong-smelling urine; offensive milk; depraved appetite, sticks, bones, and
the like being taken into the mouth; loss of flesh; weak, trembling loins;
heaving flanks; moans; internal pains; the animal remains still; chest and
shoulders stiff; marks of congestion of the brain; sometimes diarrhoea, the
dung being offensive, bloody and blackish; inability to rise; general cold-
ness; gangrene; death.
TREATMENT.—Give aconite at the commencement, every two, three,
or four hours, according to the urgency of the fever-symptoms. Give mer-
curius for offensive, bloody dung. If the discharges are made with violent
straining, give mercurius corrosivus. When improvement sets in, give sul-
phur to complete the cure. For other remedies with their symptoms, and
for the diet, consult the treatment of Indigestion and Grass Staggers.
With a view to prevention, improve the drainage of the field, avoid damp
pastures in the spring until a good growth is afforded, and discard hay which
has hurtful plants in it.
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INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS.—ENTERITIS.
Inflammation of the bowels is an inflamed condition of some or all uf
the parts of the intestines, which sometimes appears to be epidemic, and is.
most prevalent in hot weather. Among its causes are too stimulating or
rich diet, especially after poor food; unwholesome plants; spoiled food;.
colds; drinking cold water when the aumal is heated; injuries to the belly;
worms in the bowels; badly-treated colic; injuries from the rolling incident
to colic.
Symptoms.—Dullness; shivering; pulse quickened, hard, and small,
growing more feebie; staring coat; belly swollen on the left side; dry
muzzle; hot mouth; great thirst; tenderness about the flanks and stomach;
red, prominent eyes; painful moaning; cud suspended; intense pain, with
indisposition to move; obstinate constipation; dung disgusting, passed with
straining, and covered with mucus or blood, but usually in small, watery
quantities; urine very scanty, with frequent attempts to discharge it; heav-
ing flanks; pawing and kicking; head stretched forward; ears and roots of
the horns hot; dry, hot mouth, in later stages filled with frothy saliva;
rapid decline of strength; trembling, tottering hind quarters; loss of motion;.
convulsions; grinding teeth; tongue covered with thick, yellowish mucus;
sometimes putrid, bloody discharges from the mouth and nose; death, often.
in violent convulsions. If in a few days the pain suddenly ceases, mortifi-
cation has commenced and death soon ensues.
It is important to distinguish Enteritis from Colic, and in doing this
the reader will be materially aided by an examination of the appended
parallel tables of symptoms.
ENTERITIS. Cottic.
The disorder generally comes on gradu- The attack is sudden,
ally.
The pain is incessant and increases. The pain is intermittent.
The pain is aggravated by friction’ and The pain is relieved by friction and mo-
moveinent. tion.
Weakness is very characteristic. Weakness is not a characteristic till near
the end of the disorder.
TREATMENT.—The first and chief remedy is aconite, three or four times
an hour for a short time, and once every three or four hours after improvement
begins until the cure is completed. For intense suffering
g, nearly impercep-
tible pulse, cold mouth, and decline of the constitution, give arsenicum every
half-hour for a few doses; or alternate it with aconite as often. In cases
&
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resulting from a heated animal drinking cold water, arsenicum is called for
by weakness, low pulse, restlessness, cold mouth, diarrhea, and cold legs.
Should the use of aconite at the beginning give only partial relief, and the
symptoms calling for arsenicum are not present, except that of intense. pain,
give bryonia. For constipation, or dung passed only with much effort, and
but a few drops of urine resulting from frequent attempts to pass it, give
nux vomica every half-hour for a few times, then less often when relieved.
For disorders of the urine cantharis may sometimes be given; and ipecac,
pulsatilla, or veratrum album for diarrhea.
General Care.—Cloths soaked in hot water and bound closely with
belts on the body, but not too tightly, accompanied with hot-water drenches
or injections, will prove valuable aids; but the water must not be scalding
hot. The local application, with aconite given as directed above, is the
best treatment in the early stages. After the local applications, rub the
animal and cover it with dry cloths. Linseed-tea or oatmeal-gruel is the
best diet. For other suggestions of value, refer to Inflammation of the
Bowels in the Horse.
COLIC.
Colic is very frequent among cattle. It consists in severe pains in the
bowels, which are liable to lead to inflammation of the digestive organs.
Its main causes are sudden changes from grass to dry food, or from dry to
green food; sudden exposure to draughts, or drinking cold water when the
animal is heated; too much green food, especially if the animal be heated;
poor grain; frosty grass; grass fermented after being cut; excessive eating
by greedy animals; worms in the bowels. Sometimes the cause can not be
determined.
Symptoms.—The animal refuses food, paws, kicks itself, looks at its
side, lies down and rises frequently; sometimes falls instantaneously and
heavily, rolls over, lies on the back with the legs stretched upward; feet,
ears and horns alternately hot and cold; constipation; thirst; swollen
paunch; acute pain. If the disease grows worse, inflammation of the bowels
sets in. (Compare the parallel tables of symptoms given under Inflamma-
tion of the Bowels.)
TREATMENT.—Ammonium causticum, given every half-hour, may be
the only remedy required, especially if it be given at the beginning. Aconite
should be given for extreme fever and restlessness, with frequent but fruit-
less attempts to urinate. Ifa dose be given as soon as the attack comes on,
and repeated four times an hour until the symptoms subside, then less often,
it will usually be sufficient. Should the case be no better after a few doses
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248 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
of aconite, and there be purging, great prostration, and other violent indi-
cations, give arsenicum three times an hour. Nux vomica is valuable, es-
pecially when a change of diet is the cause, for colic with constipation; dis-
charges of small, brownish balls of dung, with mucus; attempts to urinate
ineffectual, or only producing slight results. Give a dose two or three times
an hour. Colocynth is desirable for severe pain from green food, and belly
puffed out with gas. Injections of tepid water, renewed as often as they
are expelled from the rectum, are valuable aids. Keep the animal from
falling heavily, to prevent rupture of internal organs. Lead him about
and, if he threatens to so fall, whip him or otherwise forcibly drive him.
When at rest, keep a large supply of straw under him. After the disor-
der has subsided, give sparingly of easily-digested food until the system is
fully restored. Other suggestions will be found by referring to the subject
of Colic in the Horse.
DYSENTERY.
Dysentery, or inflammation of the membrane of the large intestine, re-
sults from a variety of causes, such as damp, rank grass; marshy pastures;
sudden changes of weather; impure water, especially when a heated animal
drinks it; other diseases.
Symptoms.—Sometimes diarrheea or colic first appears; sometimes
purging is sudden, severe and constant, with straining; griping; bloody
dung; protrusion of the intestine, which appears hot and swollen; fever;
tenderness of the belly and loins; violent straining; loss of appetite and
flesh; skin and hair rough, dry and harsh; milk stopped; sometimes con-
stipation first appears, the dung being dry, hard, scanty and knotty. When
inflammation sets in, the dung is discharged more suddenly and violently in
spurts, becoming stringy and sticky and forming crusts on the hind parts,
and this form sometimes assumes a chronic character, with more or less
appearance of occasional recovery. Still later, blood is mixed with the
dung, the latter soon becoming exceedingly offensive; glandular swellings
form at the jaws; cold sweats ensue, the anus is ulcerated, the teeth are
loose, and the eyes are glassy and filmy.
TREATMENT.—Mercurius corrosivus is needed for violent straining and
discharges of blood, or of blood and mucus. When there are pains and a
swollen belly, colocynth may be given. Mild cases resemble diarrhea so
much that they should receive the same treatment. (See Diarrhea.) Se-
vere cases resemble Typhus Fever (which consult). For other informa-
tion, see Dysentery inthe Horse. A little mutton-broth mixed in mashes
will be found of much service.
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DIARRHEA.
This is caused by improper food; foul water; drinking cold, strange
water; damp and cold weather; drinking just after eating; weakened con-
stitution; other diseases; in sucking calves, the milk of the mother when
she has been improperly fed or overheated.
Symptoms.—Dung loose, becoming liquid, and spurted some distance;
pain; loss of appetite, flesh and spirits; offensive dung.
TREATMENT.—Should the case be mild and not attended with pain,
the spirits, flesh and appetite little affected, and the dung not offensive, it
need cause no alarm, as nature is probably removing an unhealthy condition.
When the case is violent or long-continued, remedies are necessary. When
cold is the cause, or in recent cases with shivering, give fifteen to twenty
‘drops of camphor three or four times a day in a little cold flour-gruel.
Before putting it into the gruel, mix it in just enough spirits of wine and
water (not pure water) to hold it in solution, without “settlings.” If the
dung be mixed with mucus and passed without griping pains, or when it
is frothy, dark and slimy, or when the rectum protrudes, mercurius is needed.
If the purging arises from drinking cold water, from exposure to sudden
changes of temperature, or from impure water, and is attended with chills,
bryonia will be found efficacious. Arsenicum is demanded by great pain in
the bowels; watery, slimy, greenish or brownish dung; weakness; loss of
flesh and appetite; especially in cases caused by unsuitable food or cold
drinks. It may be given in alternation with mercurius for symptoms indi-
cating that remedy. Phosphorus, in doses of four or five drops, is excellent.
Sulphuric acid is good for chronic forms, two or three drops of the concen-
trated acid being given in a half-pint of water two or three times daily.
Veratrum is good for both ordinary and chronic forms. Pulsatilla is. in-
valuable for calves affected by the milk. Sulphur in one-grain doses
should be given occasionally after.recovery occurs. Give only soft, boiled
food, as gruels of flour or oatmeal, and other like articles.
CONSTIPATION.—COSTIVENESS.
Constipation generally results from some other disorder, but may exist
alone, and be caused by cold or irregular feeding. The bowels are bound,
and what dung passes is dry and hard; the appetite is impaired; the animal
is uneasy, showing signs of belly-ache.
TREATMENT.—Give sulphur, alone, or in alternation with aconite.
Allow only soft, boiled food. For other suggestions consult the section on
Indigestion; also that on Constipation in the Horse.
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MARASMUS.
Marasmus is a tuberculous growth in the intestines which destroys
their structure. It occasionally occurs in calves. It is usually caused by
some chronic disease.
Symptoms.—W eakness; wasting away, though the animal may rumi-
nate and may eat heartily, even voraciously; the skin sticks to the ribs; the
hair loses its luster; diarrhoea, with foul dung.
TREATMENT.—Give arsenicum and china, separately or ‘in alternation.
Silicea, calcarea carbonica, phosphorus and hydrastis are all good. Sul-
phur should be given to complete a cure when it has commenced,
INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER.
Though this disorder is not very common, it is found in animals that
are stall-fed on high food and deprived of adequate exercise, and occurs.
mainly in winter.
Symptoms.—In the acute form there will be considerable fever; quick
pulse; increased heat of the body; eyes, tongue, mouth, nose and teats.
yellow; dry muzzle; hot mouth; ears and horns alternately cold and hot;
belly swollen and tender, particularly on the right side; constipation or
violent purging; urine deep yellow; milk bitter and yellowish, or lessened,
ropy and salty; general functions feeble. This form lasts about two weeks.
In the chronic form the fever is weak or absent; the dung is scanty, hard
and clay-like; the milk separates into watery and cheesy elements; there is
a very marked and general yellowish hue in the skin; there is a loss of flesh,,
strength and spirits; the animal is hide-bound; great distress comes on, and
may be followed by death. This form may last several months. Compare
the symptoms of Jaundice below. '
TREATMENT.—Mercurius is needed for yellow tint; dung offensive,
hard, whitish or yellowish; or fluid dung. For costiveness with severe pain,,
fever, and thickly-coated tongue, give bryonia and mercurius in alternation.
Nux vomica may be given with bryonia for constipation and high-colored
urine, In chronic cases lycopodium is serviceable. Give juicy, nutritious food..
JAUNDICE,
Jaundice arises from a morhid state of the liver, as hardening or inflam-
mation, from gall-stones, or other obstruction to the passage of the gall to
the gall-bladder. It is liable to confusion with Inflammation of the Liver,
which is mentioned above.
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Symptoms.—These vary according to the severity of the case, and the
successive stages, but some or all of the following will occur:—Poor appe-
tite; thinness; quick breath; tender side; cud chewed imperfectly; mem-
branes of the mouth, nose and eyes yellow; tongue lined with sticky mucus;.
diminished milk, which is bitter and yellowish; yellow skin, urine and dung;.
hot skin and other fever-symptoms; scaly, mangy eruptions (ot seen zn
inflammation of the liver.)
TREATMENT.—Give mercurius every three or four hours, especially
for yellowness of the eyes, skin, urine and milk, and for excessive purging}.
or if the dung be whitish. Podophyllin should be substituted for mercu-
rius if that remedy fails or has been given in undue quantities for any pur--
pose. Arsenicum is to be administered for loss of appetite and cud, scanty
urine, and great prostration. For marked constipation give bryonia and.
nux vomica in alternation every three hours. To complete the cure and
restore the system, sulphur will be invaluable. The food should be juicy
and nutritious, consisting of cut carrots, potatoes, turnips, and the like. Past-
ures which contain dandelion are efficacious, and the young and tender grass.
of spring-time will sometimes be sufficient at that season of the year.
Keep the bowels in a moderately lax condition. Further directions will be
found in the treatment of Jaundice in the Horse.
INFLAMMATION OF THE SPLEEN.
This occasionally affects oxen, bringing on death in three or four days.
from the onset. It is generally a complication of some other disease, but
may be caused by over-work after feeding, the cud not being sufficiently
chewed. It is especially common in damp, cold weather, though some-
times in very dry conditions.
Symptoms.—Pain in the belly; tender flanks; swelling on the side
and flank (less however than that in Hoove, coming on less rapidly, and
giving a deep, heavy sound when struck, instead of a clear, hollow one, as.
in Hoove); loss of appetite and cud; dry, rough muzzle; fixed look; low
moans; extended head; difficult gait; pulse at first full and hard, then soft
and very small.
TREATMENT.—Give bryonia for fever, thirst, constipation, and brown
tongue, either alone or, if there be nervousness and deep, shaking breath-.
ing, in alternation with aconite. China is good for hardness and swelling
in the parts about the liver. If the region of the spleen is tender and the
animal often looks toward it, give nux vomica. If the disease becomes
chronic, give one or two doses daily of ferrum or sulphur. Mild, nutritious.
food is necessary.
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PERITONITIS.
Peritonitis is an inflammation of the membrane which envelops the ab-
dominal vitals, and generally ends fatally in about a week. It is similar
to Inflammation of the Bowels, and the reader is referred to that disease for
important suggestions. It is caused by injuries to the walls of the abdo-
men, castration, surgical operations, sudden cold, and stimulating food after
calving.
Symptoms.—Inflammatory fever; tender abdomen; swelling of the
belly; tightness of the flanks; the animal looks at the sides, seldom lies
down, and stands with the back bent down and the feet drawn under the
body; when down, it rolls on the back; hot abdomen; cold hoofs and ears;
pulse rapid and short; cessation of pain, rapid decline and intermittent
pulse indicate mortification and imminent death. Dropsy of the belly may
be the result.
TREATMENT.—Adopt the treatment of Peritonitis in the Horse.
PROTRUSION OR FALL OF THE RECTUM.
The bowel sometimes protrudes after diarrha@a, dysentery or constipa-
tion, or may do so independently.
TREATMENT.—After gently pushing back the rectum it may be neces-
sary to secure it by an operation of the surgeon. Ifa mechanical injury be
the cause, give arnica, alone or in alternation with aconite. When diarrhcea
is the origin of the trouble, give arsenicum. For further information when
diarrheea or dysentery is the cause, consult the sections devoted to those.
WORMS.
Worms of various kinds are found in cattle, and are caused by weak-
mess of the digestive organs, morbid secretion of mucus, and disordered
lungs and liver.
Symptoms.—Colicky pains; poor condition; appetite good, perhaps
voracious; restlessness, particularly when the stomach is empty; fits; coughs;
worms in the dung, ¢he only certain symptom. Many symptoms of other
diseases are supposed to be caused by worms, while the worms may in-
crease merely by the existence of such symptoms.
TREATMENT.—Give sound, nutritious food, administer cina night and
morning for a few days, an hour before feeding, for varying appetite; tight
or purging bowels; rough coat; fits; foul breath. If improvement ap-
pears, continue this remedy. If it fails or only partially relieves, give two-
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grain doses of the trituration of arsenicum as directed for cina. For zape-
worm, felix mas is the most effectual, a half-ounce of a decoction being
given early in the morning and late at night. Rock-salt, a lump being
placed where the animals can lick it, is recommended as a preventive of
worms. Consult the section on Worms in the Horse.
FLUKES.—WORMS IN THE LIVER.
Worms in the liver or bile-ducts sometimes cause great swelling of the
liver, and usually prove fatal. They occur mainly in low countries and
after damp seasons, and may be taken in with the food and developed in the
liver,
Symptoms.—Depression; inactivity; red, watery, or yellowish eyes;
yellowish skin; standing hair; loss of appetite; offensive smell from the
mouth and nose; white, watery, offensive dung passes irregularly.
TREATMENT.—Give mercurius for the symptoms just named. Ar-
senicum is good for chronic cases, with diarrhoea, prostration and cold
limbs. Sulphur is needed to complete a cure, when once it begins.
PILES, DUST-BALLS, ETC.
For Piles, Dust-Balls, Hair-Balls, and other disorders of the digestive
organs which are not treated in this chapter, consult the respective sections.
devoted to these disorders in the Horse.
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CHAPTER JIL
THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS.
COUGH.
\OUGH is usually a symptom of some disease, but it may exist inde-
le pendently. In the former case it is remedied by the removal of the
| disease; in the latter, the treatment below will generally cure it. In
Ss
strained and causes no inconvenience. The independent cough which de-
a healthy condition, cattle often have a cough which is not con-
mands treatment is caused by dust; indigestion; some substance in the wind-
pipe; cold. If it be dull, hollow, worse after drinking, and easily excited,
the cause is probably lung-disorder, or, if it be severe, it may result from
‘dropsy of the chest. ,
TREATMENT.—Give belladonna in most cases, especially for dry, hack-
ing or barking cough. Dulcamara is needed for loose cough from a cold.
For cough attended with diarrhea, give chamomilla. Ipecac is good for
difficult breathing, phlegm, and rattling of the chest. Give arsenicum for
oppressed breathing, worse on exposure to cold; loss of strength and flesh.
For long-standing cases, for dry, rough cough, and for that caused by frost,
give bryonia. Sulphur is suitable for long-continued, obstinate cough. It
may be alternated with one of the above remedies which has not effected
the desired result. Of these remedies give a dose three or four-times a day
until improvement begins; then once or twice a day. Keep the animal in
a place that is comfortable, well ventilated, and free from draughts of air
and north or east winds. Give only good food, as carrots and linseed-tea.
COLD.—CATARRH.—CORYZA.
Common cold or catarrh is caused by exposure to draughts of air, or
drinking cold water, when the animal is heated; sudden changes of
weather; cold water applied to the skin of a heated animal, without subse-
quently drying; cold, wet weather; hot, close, impure and overcrowded
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THE OX—THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS, 255
stables; causes generally which bring on bronchitis (which see). It is
often epidemic. .
Symptoms.—Fever; loss of appetite; dry, husky, wheezing cough
and breathing; dry nose, with thin, watery discharge from the nostrils and
eyes; sneezing; red, swollen eyes; sometimes thick nasal discharge; low
spirits. If neglected, cold may end in diseases of the larynx and lungs.
TREATMENT.—Camphor is by far the best if used promptly at first,
being given once a day. For sore throat and thick, offensive nasal dis-
charge, give mercurius, alone or alternated with belladonna. For consti-
pation and impaired appetite nux vomica will be invaluakle. For short,
painful breathing, violent coughs, and unwillingness to move, bryonia
is needed. Arsenicum is to be chosen for cold resulting from a heated ani-
mal drinking cold water; difficult breathing; swollen legs; loss of appetite;
much weakness; purging. When improvement takes place and has ad-
vanced a considerable time, give sulphur twice daily for a few days. Of
these remedies, speaking generally, the one selected should be given three
or four times daily until the symptoms indicating it have abated, then less
often. If an animal has been subjected to any of the causes of cold, or if a
cold has just appeared, give three or four doses of camphor, twenty or thirty
minutes apart, 7 the first stages, not after inflammation appears. This,
with proper care, will usually suffice. See Cold in the Horse.
SORE THROAT.
Sore throat is an inflammation of the membranes of the back part of
the mouth, involving the other organs of respiration. It is often epidemic
in swampy, foggy districts, having causes similar to those of catarrh, though
it may result from external injuries or irritating food.
Symptoms.—lf the organs involved in swallowing are mainly affected,
food is wholly refused or it is not well masticated, and is thrown out of the
mouth; fluids in drinking freely flow from the nose; painful and difficult
swallowing; saliva first flows from the mouth, then mucus; swollen tongue;
the cud is suspended; painful and swollen throat; fever. When the
larynx, glottis and upper part of the windpipe are affected, breathing is
difficult; frequent dry, hoarse, painful cough, with threatened suffocation;
painful, hot and swollen throat; full, rapid, hard pulse; great thirst; fluids
returning through the nose during drinking; head stiffly stretched out;
hard, dry dung.
TREATMENT.—For full pulse, hot breath, dull, heavy eyes, skin once
hot, then cold, give aconite in the first stages, ten drops to the dose.
Belladonna is needed for swollen throat; quick, full pulse; hot skin; flow-
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256 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
ing tears; difficult and painful swallowing; stringy saliva; dry cough. It
will often be of especially good service if alternated’ with aconite. Mer-
curius is valuable for sore throat with thick nasal discharge. Arsenicum
is especially useful for malignant sore throat with offensive breath, prostra-
tion, and tendency to gangrene, ten drops every two hours until better.
INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS.—PNEUMONIA.
This is an inflamed condition of the lung-tissues. (See Bronchitis and
Pleurisy.) Itis caused by exposure to cold or to damp, cold weather;
drinking cold water when heated; hard or long driving. It may attend
bronchitis or pleurisy, and may end in consumption, dropsy of the chest, or
other serious disorders. It is sometimes epidemic. f
Symptoms.—Shivering; horns, muzzle and ears alternately hot and.
cold; cold limbs; heaving, panting flanks; hanging head; dullness; muzzle
once dry, again moist; costiveness; hard, black, offensive dung; dry, fre-
quent cough; mouth and breath hot; loss of appetite and cud; great thirsts,
quickened pulse occasionally, perhaps above sixty to the minute; grinding
of teeth; groans. Later on, discharges cof watery phlegm from the
mouth, which grows thick and sticky; loss of milk; sweats; sometimes.
hard, swollen teats; tears profuse; tenderness of the back and crupper; the
animal seldom lies down. Later still, very difficult breathing; great weak-
ness; belly tucked up and legs drawn under it; dung more and more liquid
and offensive; ulcers on the body come and go; offensive discharge from
the eyes; unconsciousness; pupils of the eyes enlarged and filmy; mem-
branes of the mouth, nose and throat grow cold; imminent death.
TREATMENT.—Aconite given every three hours at the beginning will
be effective and often sufficient; if marked improvement should not appear,
give this in alternation with bryonia as often. Arsenicum is needed for
great prostration. Sulphur will complete a cure once begun and restore the
system. Ifthe weather be cold, clothe the animal against damp and cold.
Give sparingly of such food as bran and boiled oats. Should other diseases
follow, adopt the treatment given under them. Also consult the section on
Pneumonia or Inflammation of the Lungs in the Horse.
CONSUMPTION.
Consumption is a serious, usually chronic, disorder that is marked by
tubercles in the lungs, which grow, run together, and form abscesses. It is
caused by neglect or bad treatment of pneumonia or pleurisy, by cold, chill,
over-exertion, or a hereditary tendency to the diseases.
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THE OX—-THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 257
Symptoms.—F eeble, hoarse, gurgling, painful cough; impaired diges-
tion; loss of appetite; irregular cud; loss of flesh, also of hair, mainly on
the eyebrows.
TREATMENT.—Give nitrum and sulphur alternately at the beginning.
In later stages relief will be given by phosphorus and stannum. Put the
animal in a comfortable, airy stable, free from north and east winds, apart
from other animals, Do not hurry, alarm or excite it. Change the litter
often and keep itdry. Rub and curry the skin frequently. The disease
may be relieved and the animal’s life be prolonged, but it will be unfit
for milk, beef or breeding.
BRONCHITIS.
Bronchitis, or inflammation of the air-tubes leading to the lungs, rare
in cattle, is caused by neglected or badly-treated cold, by the influences
which induce a cold (see Cold), and by disordered digestion.
Symptoms.—Indications of a cold; thick, wheezing breath; exposure to
cold causes quickened pulse and breathing, with cough and a rattle in the
windpipe; dull eyes; hot mouth; very rapid loss of flesh; great dread of
motion; belly tucked up; heaving flanks; the cough is frequent and pain-
ful; staring coat.
TREATMENT.—Give aconite at the beginning for quickened pulse and
breath, hot mouth, short, frequent cough, and fever-symptoms. Bryonia
is needed for quick, difficult breathing, rattle in the windpipe, and frequent
cough. For rapid loss of flesh and strength, feeble pulse, and restlessness,
give arsenicum. Belladonna is especially good for violent, short, dry cough-
ing, red eyes, and wild look. Consult the section on Bronchitis in the Horse.
WORMS IN THE AIR-TUBES.
Cattle a year old or less are affected with a disorder which may be
called a form of bronchitis, since it is an irritation and inflammation of the
air-tubes, resulting from the presence of silver-colored worms, two or three
inches in length. It chiefly invades cattle that are kept on low, marshy or
woody pastures, with little or no water.
Symptoms.—Cough, at first dry, short and husky; quickened breath-
ing; distress in the chest; sometimes grunting; nasal discharge; quick
pulse; dullness; loss of flesh. Later, there will be restlessness; hanging
ears; distended nostrils; hollow eyes; weakness; death. Sometimes appar-
ently moderate health is attended by complete loss of flesh.
TREATMENT,—Let the animal inhale chloroform at intervals to be
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258 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
regulated by the urgency of the case. If there be doubt as to the existence
of worms, use the treatment already recommended for Bronchitis.
PLEURO-PNEUMONIA.—LUNG-MURRAIN.
By these terms is meant a very serious malarial or contagious disease
caused by sudden and great changes from heat to cold, or the opposite,
crowding animals together in dark, damp, poorly-ventilated stables; conta-
gion; high or artificial feeding. It is very fatal.
Symptoms.—In the first stage the attack may be slow, without indi-
cations of serious results; it may be rapid and quickly fatal; or it may begin
with violent diarrhea, weakness and loss of flesh. Then there will be an
occasional short, dry, husky cough; harsh, dry murmur, or confused hum-
rning in the lungs, instead of the natural moist, silky sound (detected by
placing the ear to the sides of the chest); milk diminished and yellowish;
impaired appetite; quick and labored breathing on motion; pulse sometimes
a little quickened and weaker; dullness; heat or coldness of the body; either
constipation, purging, or irregular bowels. In the second stage the cough
is more frequent and painful; thick phlegm in the mouth; grating teeth;
grunting; loss of appetite, cud and milk; pain on pressure between the ribs;
pulse quick and feeble; skin hard and tight; dung hard and dry. In the
third stage, the breathing is much quickened and labored, the breath being
offensive; pulse quicker, feebler and irregular; horas, legs, and ears cold;
cold sweats; the legs stand in various unusual positions; great loss of flesh
and strength; weak cough; urine high-colored; violent purging of watery,
offensive, blackish, often bloody, dung; death.
TREATMENT.—Give aconite at first, ten drops every hour or two, ac-
cording-to the urgency, for quick, hard pulse, short, painful breathing, dry,
hot mouth, scanty milk, cold base of the horns, hard dung, and other fever-
symptoms. Bryonia is often needed after aconite, especially if the latter
has afforded only partial relief, in which case it should be alternated with it,
each once in two hours. The symptoms for bryonia are frequent, painful
cough, and avoidance of motion. Phosphorus is valuable for enfeebled or
obscure murmur of the lungs; obstructed breathing ; slimy or bloody phlegm
in the mouth. Prepare it fresh every day. Ammonium causticum is
indicated by quick, difficult breathing; rough, staring coat; languor; weak
pulse; frequent cough; shivering or trembling; skin hot and dry, but grow-
ing moist; great weakness and listlessness. Arsenicum is invaluable for ex-
treme weakness; grinding of the teeth; loss of appetite; short, wheezing and
difficult breathing; clammy sweats; small, quick pulse; offensive nasal dis-
charge; much purging, and for epidemic cases. Sulphur is valuable for
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THE OX—THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS, 259
aiding a recovery when once begun, and to prevent a relapse, especially
when bronchitis is present, with a pus-like mucus coming from the nose.
Begin treatment as soon as the first symptoms appear. Separate the animal
from others at once. Give mashes, oatmeal-gruel, linseed-tea, a small
quantity of good hay being added after a few days, but feed sparingly, gradu-
ally increasing as recovery progresses, remembering that a return of the dis-
ease usually results from too soon overloading the stomach, and is generally
fatal. Forcing down food, even in drenches, will almost invariably cause
death.
This is one of the most fearful and destructive diseases of cattle, and
too much pains can not be taken to prevent its invasion, and to completely
isolate all infected animals, so that it may not spread. Its restriction or sup-
pression is engaging the attention of many able men, and has commanded
the attention of our state legislatures and national Congress.
PLEURISY.
Pleurisy is an inflammation of the membrane which envelops the lungs.
It is caused by exposure to draughts of wind or frost; a wet bed; blows on
the side; over-exertion; neglected catarrh; calving followed by exposure.
Symptoms.—The taking in of the breath is fitful or interrupted, its
expulsion being full and long; heaving flanks; full, quick pulse; slight
cough; dullness; lowered head; animal indisposed to move; mouth, ears
and nose hot; muzzle dry; feet and horns alternately cold and hot; much
thirst; loss of appetite and cud; urine red; dung dry, blackish and slimy;
constipation; milk much decreased; shivering; twitching and wave-like
motions of the skin; very tender s:des, chest and spine. In later stages,
there will be profuse tears; nasal discharge clear and watery, becoming red
and bloody; pulse feebler and quicker; breathing more troubled; sweats;
nostrils wide open; finally death. In this disorder the breathing is effected
by a peculiar: movement of the abdomen, while in pneumonia it is still
done by the ribs; there is more pain on pressing between the ribs than in
pneumonia. Pleurisy is liable to end in dropsy of the chest.
TREATMENT.—Give aconite for quick, full, hard pulse, dry, hot mouth,
and quickened breathing. If in addition to the symptoms just named there
be a bloody nasal discharge, short, catching breath, with rattling in the
windpipe, gruntings, pain on pressing the side, and constipation, give bry-
onia in alternation with aconite every two or three hours, Arsenicum is re-
quired in advanced stages for rapid prostration and feeble pulse. When
improvement has begun sulphur will complete the cure. For other infor-
mation consult the section on Pleurisy in the Horse.
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CHAPTER IV.
THE SKIN.
ERUPTIONS.
may appear on different parts of the body, resulting from insufficient,
excessive, or poor food; from constitutional disease; from unhealthy
conditions generally. The sudden suppression of eruptions is often
the cause of serious or fatal derangements of internal organs.
TREATMENT.—If disease be the cause, remove it. For independent
cases, give two grains of sulphur in the morning and as much arsenicum at
night. Other valuable remedies are graphites, silicea, rhus and mercurius.
CHAPS AND CRACKS.
Chaps and cracks in the skin are due to walking on marshes, to the
applications of strong medicines, and to internal disease. In the last case,
the disease should itself be treated.
TREATMENT.—In independent cases, that is, without internal disease,
give arsenicum internally. Sepia will. be valuable if the skin is hard, dry
and peeling off. Phosphoric acid is needed when the hardened edges of
the cracks form wrinkles and ridges. If the pasture is marshy, change it.
WARTS.
Warts are tumors of varying size on different parts of the body, which
need no description.
TREATMENT.—M ist, encrusted, chapped warts, of large size and dis-
gusting appearance, should be painted twice daily with strong tincture of
thuja, a dilution of the same being given internally night and morning.
Ulcerated warts are best treated with arsenicum. Small warts on the lips
call for calcarea carbonica; and those which are painful and bleeding, for
causticum. After a few doses of either of the above remedies, give sulphur,
and if it fail resume the former medicine. See Warts in the Horse.
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THE OX—THE SKIN. 261
TUBERCLES.
Tubercles are small, inactive swellings, caused by rubbing, colds,
stings, bruises, internal disorder, and the like.
TREATMENT.—If external violence be the cause, give arnica internally
and apply externally. For hard, small swellings, give calcarea carbonica,
followed by sulphur. If an internal disorder be the cause, treat that.
CYSTS.
These are inactive tumors of varying size on different parts of the body
which contain morbid matters of varying color, quality and consistence.
TREATMENT.—Continue calcarea carbonica once or twice daily; if it
fails, give graphites. For tumor under the jaw and above the throat, give
mercurius. If pus forms in the cyst, hepar and silicea will be efficacious.
Sulphur is useful for almost all forms, and may be given occasionally. It
will also complete a cure once begun. Mercurius-corrosivus lotion may
be used in old or chronic cases, one part by weight to sixteen of Zot water.
FUNGOUS GROWTHS.
A fungus is an excrescence due to the rubbing of a rope at the base of
the horns, or to the yoke, and also may appear on the hoof. Pus sometimes
forms, and the part affected may become very red.
TREATMENT.—If the fungus is very tender upon pressure, apply
arnica, one part to fifteen of water. If it becomes hard and is not tender,
apply a lotion of mercurius corrosivus, one part by weight to sixteen of hot
water. Thuja is needed for a fungus at the base of the horns; sepia for one
on the hoof; and phosphorus for those that are very red. Ifa fungus col-
lects pus, treat it as directed under Abscess on another page.
SPONGE,
Sponge is a name given to a spongy growth on the knee, usually
caused by an injury. It is at first a hot and painful swelling, then a cold,
hard, inactive tumor, sometimes itching and discharging pus.
TREATMENT.—TIf an external injury be the cause, apply arnica-lotion,
rubbing it in well three times a day. Should the swelling become hard,
rub in a lotion of mercurius corrosivus, one part by weight to sixteen of hot
water, until the part becomes tender and scurfy, repeating the application in
about ten days. Mercurius corrosivus internally may be of use.
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262 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
MILK SCAB.—CRUSTA LACTZA,
Crusta lactza consist in white pustules on the head, chiefly about the
mouth, nose, eyes and ears, discharging a sticky fluid, becoming dry, and
leaving bluish-white scabs. Other parts of the body may be somewhat
affected. It is very contagious but causes no itching; has thicker scabs than
exist in itch; and is not dangerous, though it produces loss of strength and
flesh, and diarrhea.
TREATMENT.—Persevere some time, once or twice a day, with either
calcarea carbonica, rhus, arsenicum, thuja, or sulphur, applying a lotion of
arsenicum externally; and if the lotion is a failure, rub on thuja occasionally.
ITCH.—MANGE.
This is similar to itch in the human being, and is caused by the pres-
ence of numerous minute parasites. The predisposing causes are bad
food, wet weather, filth, close, damp, unclean stables, bad winter care, in-
deed, whatever puts the animal in poor condition. It is more commonly
taken by contagion from an infected animal, and may thus be communi-
cated to the human system.
Symptoms.—tIn dry itch, restlessness; scratching; naked or scaled and
bleeding spots; perhaps ulcers and scabs later, giving out a fluid which
soon thickens and forms crusts. In mozst itch, larger, deeper ulcers, with a
thin, reddish, irritating fluid and thicker scabs than in dry itch. Marasmus
or dropsy may ensue (which see). Itch is liable to be attended with lice
(see Lice). The only absolute proof of itch is the presence of the insect,
which may be detected if one will scrape off some of the scurf and ex-
amine it carefully—with a magnifying glass if his sight is not sharp.
TREATMENT.—Make an ointment of one ounce of sulphur and two
ounces of lard, thoroughly mixed. Rub this on with a clean, large paint-
brush, being sure to reach every part and wrinkle where the parasites may
be. If a few remain they defeat a cure. Use this morning and night for
a day or two. Give internally two grains of sulphur in the morning, and
as much arsenicum at night. Wash the scaly parts thoroughly with soap:
and tepid water, and then carefully dry with a cloth. Ointments contain-
ing mercury and arsenic are to be avoided. Pastures in which infected
animals have run should be vacated eight to ten weeks before they are
used again, the cloths, brushes and other articles used in the treatment be-
ing burned or thoroughly boiled, and the stable, gates and posts against
which they have rubbed being studiously washed with strong carbolic
acid to prevent a spread of the disorder in the herd.
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THE OX—THE SKIN. 263
GOITRE.
Goitre is a tumor with enlarged gland on the neck, usually the left
side, and is sometimes chronic. The animal carries the head outward and
upward, at times bellows in distress, and has a painful cough.
TREATMENT.—Spongia, continued some time, is useful; iodine is also.
Mercurius and drosera may be required. An occasional lotion of mer-
curius-corrosivus may be used. As the disorder is due to the properties of
the drinking-water and the soil—chiefly lime and phosphates—a change of
water and pasture will afford the surest grounds of hope of a cure. At
best, protracted treatment will be necessary.
WORMS IN THE BACK.
Worms in the back are caused by the gad-fly piercing the skin and
laying eggs, which hatch, leaving maggots that remain until the next
summer, before escaping as gad-flies, unless removed by treatment. These
maggots live on the pus resulting from a tumor which becomes as large as
a small filbert. They cause pain, irritation, pus-formations, loss of strength,
and damage to the hide by perforating it. They attack only healthy cattle.
TREATMENT.— Through the small opening which will be found in the
tumor, thrust a small instrument or red-hot needle and thus destroy the
maggots, carefully searching the whole back for them. The same advan-
tage may be gained by squeezing the tumor and thus crushing or forcing
out the worm; or by frequently washing the tumors with camphorated
brandy. Give sulphur internally after the above treatment.
LICE.
Lice afflict calves and young cattle especially, and are found chiefly
behind the horns and ears, on the membrane passing down from the throat,
on the withers, and back of the neck.
TREATMENT.—Dress well with olive oil, or with equal parts of water
(or glycerine) and sulphurous acid. A lotion of carbolic acid is also *good.
If eruptions caused by the lice do not disappear when the insects are re-
moved, give a few doses of arsenicum. Observe perfect cleanliness and
destroy the bedding of an infected animal. It will be well to rub all ob-
jects which the infected animal has touched with carbolic acid. Keep the
animal in good health and flesh, to ward off lice. Fowls roosting about
the stable very often impart lice to cattle, and their removal is often
necessary.
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264 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
STINGS AND BITES OF INSECTS.
Stings or bites may cause inflammation and pain. Remove the stings
if they remain in the skin, and foment with diluted arnica or ledum. If
many insects, as a swarm of bees, have settled on the animal, give arnica
internally and apply externally. Apis is an excellent general remedy.
HIDE-BOUND.
Hide-bound is a condition resulting from disordered digestion, deficient
or poor food, rough weather, intestinal worms, or chronic disorders of the
lungs. The skin is hard and adheres to the ribs, the hair being rough.
TREATMENT.—Treat the disease which causes the condition. As a
rule, arsenicum is best for loss of flesh and strength, poor appetite, and cold
skin, three doses being given daily for a few days, then twice a day.
SURFEIT, ERYSIPELAS, ETC.
For all requisite information upon Surfeit, Erysipelas, Ringworm and
other disease of the skin not treated in this chapter, refer to the correspond-
ing ailments of the Horse.
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CHAPTER V.
THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS.
INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS.
pelaiseasceens of the kidneys is often combined with inflamma-
tion of the intestines or bladder. It is caused by changes of tempera-
| ture,eating unsuitable food or plants, strong medicines, as cantharides in
em too large doses, and external injuries to the loins. A careful study of its
symptoms is requisite to distinguish it from other urinary disorders.
Symptoms.—Scanty urine, passed with pain and difficulty (by which
this disorder is distinguished from Inflammation of the Bladder, in which
the urine is passed readily and copiously); urine thin at first, then thick
and red; parts near the kidneys very hot and tender on pressure; back
arched; legs brought together under the body; hot rectum; dung scanty,
its passage giving pain; appetite and cud lost; considerable thirst; quick,
weak pulse.
TREATMENT.—When there are much fever and pain, give aconite at
once in doses of five to ten drops every one or two hours. When sucha
condition is accompanied with frequent painful urgings to-urinate, followed
by a discharge of small quantities of bloody urine, cantharis should be
given in alternation with aconite. After the inflammatory symptoms have
subsided and frequent but almost ineffectual efforts to pass urine continue,
with obstinate constipation, nux vomica will be quite sufficient. Give small
quantities of light, nutritious food, and clothe the animal comfortably in cold
weather. For further directions, see this disorder in the Horse.
INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER.
Inflammation of the bladder is so similar to that of the kidneys, that
the reader should here note the symptoms mentioned in the preceding article,
together with this distinction, that in this disorder of the bladder the animal
leans first on one side and then on the other, with the back almost constantly
arched.
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266 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
TREATMENT.—Adopt the treatment laid down for Inflammation of the
Kidneys, adding hyoscyamus to the remedies there named.
SPASM OF THE BLADDER.
A spasm of the neck of the bladder is caused by stoppage of sweat;
too watery food; cold feet; too long retention of urine. It is indicated by
great restlessness; unsuccessful efforts to urinate; much suffering; scraping
with the feet; violent falls. The retention of urine distinguishes the dis-
order from colic.
TREATMENT.—For fever, and scanty, bloody urine, give aconite from
one to four times an hour, according to the urgency of the case, Similar
doses of cantharis will afford much relief. See this disorder in the Horse.
BLOODY URINE.
Bloody urine more often attacks males than females, and is caused by
improper or poisonous food, catarrh, injuries from jumping, blows, and the
like (especially in cows at the time of calving).
Symptoms.—Loss of appetite; much thirst; cold feet, ears and horns;
rapid pulse; pain on pressure about the loins; chills; mouth and tongue hot;
pulse feeble; passage of dung painful; the urine gradually becomes red, its
passage in later stages being very distressing and made up of drops only; if
the bladder and kidneys become much inflamed, the case is hopeless.
TREATMENT.-—Give cantharis two or three times daily; if it fails, give
camphor twice a day, ten grains or more with pounded loaf sugar, placed
dry on the tongue or put in a little water and well shaken. Consult the
article on the same disease in the Horse.
BLACK WATER,
Black water, also called “red water,” is caused by neglect, harmful
vegetation in swampy lands, buds, decayed leaves, insufficient grass and
water in- summer, sudden changes in temperature, diseases of the stomach
and liver, injuries, and exposure to wet and cold soon after calving.
Symptoms.—At first, dullness, poor appetite, tender loins, unthrifty-
looking skin; then red urine, or even black, entire loss of appetite, all parts
of the skin and whites of the eyes yellowish-brown; quick, full pulse; the
bowels, perhaps very loose at first, become greatly constipated; sunken eyes;
rapid loss of strength and flesh; violent purging; death, unless treated
properly.
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THE OX—-THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 267
TREATMENT.—Fever and diminished milk demand aconite every three
hours until the fever abates. Give cantharis for scanty, red urine passed with
pain and straining. For sudden attacks, with shivering, cold extremities,
and great difficulty in urinating, give eight drops of camphor every half-
hour for three or four times. Ipecac is needed if the whites of the eyes are:
tinged with yellow, and if the breathing is difficult. If injuries be the
cause, give arnica every half-hour. Pulsatilla is specially valuable for the:
general symptoms. Give such food as mashes, gruels, fresh meadow-grass,.
and linseed-tea, in small quantities. Avoid turnips. Keep the animal from
winds, allowing exercise in a suitable shed or yard, but avoiding the hot
sun for several days after an apparent recovery.
RETENTION OF THE URINE.
Retention of urine, different from its suppression in Inflammation of the:
Kidneys, has symptoms similar to those of Inflammation of-the Bladder
(which see); the urine is wholly stopped, or passes only in small quantities.
and with much difficulty.
TREATMENT.—If the symptoms be severe, give ten drops of nux
vomica every half-hour or oftener. Cantharis and bryonia are very valuable:
for the general symptoms. For other remedies see this disorder in the Horse..
DIABETES.
Diabetes is a large discharge of sugary urine, at first clear, then
greenish. It is caused by cold, or by juicy, frozen or frosted food.
Symptoms.—Excessive urine and thirst; growing weakness; difficult
passage of urine; continued fever.
TREATMENT.—Phosphoric acid is the best remedy, but nux vomica and
sulphur are useful for the general symptoms. Give water sparingly, a
little flour-gruel mixed with water being also advisable. Avoid much juicy
food. See “tests” and full treatment of Diabetes in the Horse.
STONE IN THE BLADDER.
Symptoms.—Very scanty urine; stamping; looking at the flanks;
switching of the tail; later, bursting of the bladder; appearance of dropsy
sets in, followed by returning appetite, though death is near.
TREATMENT.—Treat the same as Stone or Gravel in the Horse. The
stones, when once formed, can be successfully removed only by one of
professional skill, and are often incurable.
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268 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
CALVING AND FLOODING.
Though calving is purely physiological, it may lead to more or less
serious consequences if the cow is not properly treated. She should be dry
for about a month before calving, which will be in about nine months after
impregnation. This will allow an adequate nourishment for the calf and
lessen any tendency to milk-fever or inflammation of the udder. If she is
poor, she should be dry for more than 2 month. During such a period food
should be given oftener, but in less quantities. For a few days before calving
one will notice quick breath, groans, uneasiness, rapid enlargement of the
udder and dropping of the belly, and a discharge of mucus from the vagina.
Restlessness increases, the cow often lying down, when pains will come on,
with the expulsion of the calf. The after-birth generally comes away at
once, but may remain several hours and threaten serious results. As a prep-
aration for delivery, feed sparingly of mashes and hay for a few days, and
frequently strip the udder if it is swollen and hard. Afford a roomy, well-
ventilated place, without superfluous litter, but with comfortable bedding. If
any serious consequences are feared, put adequate covering on the animal
immediately after delivery. If fever ensues after calving, give aconite.
Pulsatilla should be administered two or three times a day if the after-birth
‘does not come away soon after delivery. If it remains in spite of the pul-
satilla, call a veterinary surgeon to remove it.
“ Flooding ” is a term applied to an unusually full discharge of blood
after delivery. It is caused by a lack of proper contraction of the womb,
or by injuries sustained in assisting a difficult parturition. If at this time
there be a violent straining and great flow of blood, give secale every
three or four hours, and pulsatilla may be alternated with it. If an injury
has been the cause, give arnica three or four times daily. Keep the cow
quiet, with the hind quarters elevated a little. Inject cold water into the
rectum, and for a short time apply at intervals to the loins some cloths
soaked in cold water. This will contract the blood-vessels.
INFLAMMATION OF THE WOMB.
Inflammation of the womb is caused by difficult labor in calving, and
by cold.
Symptoms.—Discharge of mucus and blood; fruitless efforts to pass
urine; swollen bearings; loss of appetite; cold feet and ears.
TREATMENT.—At first bryonia alternated with aconite every two
to four hours will be beneficial. After the fever, if swelling of the bear-
ings and straining remain, give sabina, For difficult urination and pain in
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THE OX—THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 269
the belly, give belladonna, alone or alternated with bryonia. Insure quiet-
ness and a mild diet and protect the animal against colds.
FALL OF THE WOMB.
This is caused by very difficult calving, or the work of an assistant
during the same. The womb protrudes from the vagina more or less, be-
ing of a deep-red appearance.
TREATMENT.—Treatment should be given at once. Place the hind
feet a little higher than the fore ones. If the womb has become dry, cold
or dirty, gently and thoroughly wash it with tepid milk. Wrap the hand
with a soft cloth soaked in tepid milk and carefully turn the womb back to
its place, as in turning a glove-finger that has been turned inside out. This
operation is more safely done by a surgeon, and he may find it necessary to
use some appliance to prevent further protrusion. If the trouble is caused
by the cow’s efforts to expel the afterbirth, give pulsatilla and sepia. For
much straining, secale should be given every three or four hours.
MISCARRIAGE.—ABORTION.
This occurs between the fifth and eighth months of pregnancy, chiefly
in over-fed cows. Ina given district abortion in one cow may be followed
by the same in others, and one occurrence is likely to lead to another in
the same cow in about a year. Its chief causes are bad or frozen food, im-
pure water and air, confinement in dark, unhealthy stables, violent exertion,
injuries to the belly, and sexual intercourse during pregnancy; the smell
from a cow that has recently suffered a miscarriage is liable to induce it in
others that are pregnant.
Symptoms.—Threatening symptoms are aversion to food, restlessness
and anxiety, low spirits, lowing, sudden stoppage of milk, offensive mu-
cous discharge from the vagina, collapse of the belly and stoppage of the
motions of the calf in the womb.
TREATMENT.—Arnica, repeated according to the urgency of the case,
will often avert a miscarriage if used immediately when an injury has been
sustained during pregnancy. After the symptoms have begun, secale is an
admirable remedy, as it aids the labor. For chills, give arnica every hour
until they disappear. If strains or over-exertion threaten miscarriage,
give rhus instead of arnica. Guard against recurrences. After a mis-
carriage has begun it is useless to try to check it. To prevent it, avoid the
causes mentioned above, and the cautions given upon Abortion in mares
on a preceding page.
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270 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
INFLAMMATION OF THE UDDER.
Inflammation of the udder after calving is caused by exposure to bad
weather, injuries from lying on the udder, or failure to empty the udder.
It occurs chiefly after the first calving.
Symptoms.—Hot, painful, swollen udder, with hard, internal lumps;
fevers; full, rapid pulse; mouth and horns hot; quickened breath; constipa-
tion. The symptoms afterward become worse, there being loss of cud and
appetite; abscesses in the lumps, perhaps bursting and discharging blood
and pus; deep, malignant ulcers; poor and diminished milk; perhaps
hardening of the udder.
TREATMENT.—Give aconite for fever, a few doses at the beginning.
At the first, bryonia and belladonna in alternation will often effect an im-
provement. Hepar should be given if the swellings are suppurating,
Phosphorus and silicea are also valuable, in alternation, for the same symp-
tom. For chronic enlargement of the udder, rub once or twice daily with
one drachm of iodine in two ounces of lard. Strip the udder often and
then bathe it with warm water and soap.
SORE TEATS.
The teats become sore from various causes, especially in young cows
after calving. External injuries, warts and constitutional disorder induce the
trouble.
Symptoms.—After calving, tender and inflamed, scaled or cracked
teats, a bloody discharge mixing with the milk as well as coming from
the sores; pain in milking; kicking which may grow to a settled habit;
diminished milk; sore udder; perhaps inflammation of the udder (see last
‘disease above).
TREATMENT.—If warts be the cause, pluck or cut them away, and
dress the wound and sores once or twice daily with a lotion of four grains
of arsenicum to four ounces of pure boiled or distilled water. If soreness
results from cracks, apply two or three times daily a preparation composed
of twenty drops of arnica and one ounce of lard. If injuries be the cause,
use an arnica-lotion twice a day. Calendula-lotion applied to the sores
several times daily is a good treatment for sore teats in general. If ulcers
are forming, aid the process by giving hepar. When the ulcers break, give
silicea every four hours to complete the cure. Before making an applica-
tion, and before milking, cleanse the teats well, and foment them with
warm water to soften them. A tube gently inserted up the teat at milk-
ing-time will draw off the milk, avert kicking, and aid the healing.
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THE OX—THE URINARY AND GENERATIVE ORGANS. 271
COW-POX.
Cow-pox is a pustular eruption on the udder, and is caused by conta-
gion, and perhaps by bad food and atmospheric influences.
Symptoms.-—Fever; diminished or suppressed milk; appetite less, and
chewing of the cud stopped; large, round eruptions on the teats, depressed
.or concave at the center, containing at first a thin, serous fluid, which grows
thick and yellowish, and oozes out; the ulcers being broken, they leave
deep-seated, malignant ulcers; if they be not broken, a scab forms, which
leaves sound skin underneath, when it falls off. (It is an interesting fact that
the virus of cow-pox, taken from the'teats, is that with which the human
family is inoculated in vaccination as a preventive of small-pox.)
Another form, known as “spurious caw-pox,”’
is indicated by erup-
tions of varying size and shape, the top swollen and containing a thick,
yellowish matter (not concave as noticed above), forming a crust which, if
not disturbed, will fall off and leave sound skin, but will leave many small,
ulcerative sores, which are hard to heal if removed in milking or by other
mechanical agencies.
TREATMENT.—One or two doses of sulphur daily will usually suffice.
If ulceration occurs, give mercurius or hepar. If the sores run together
and irritate the surface, give arsenicum twice daily. Apply a calendula-
lotion to the sores.
GONORRHGA.
This is a disease of the mucous membranes of the canals through which
the urine passes. It occurs in either sex and is caused by excessive sexual
intercourse, or diseased organs during the intercourse, and by lack of
cleanliness.
Symptoms.—in the bull the sheath is red and swollen. In the cow,
the tail is shaken and moved aside; the bearings swollen, sore and internally
red. In either sex, there is a constant discharge of matter from the organ,
with frequent, small and painful discharges of urine.
TREATMENT.—Usually aconite will be sufficient if given at the be-
ginning, when there is much inflammation, with difficulty and pain in
urinating. Give four or five doses three hours apart. If, after the signs or
inflammation have abated, the difficult urination continues, especially if the
urine be greenish and tinged with blood, give cantharis every three hours,
or every six hours with aconite midway between the doses. After a few
doses of the above remedies, especially if much soreness exists, with thick,
white, greenish or yellowish discharges, give two grains of mercurius three
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272 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
times a day. Iodine is useful, ten drops three times daily. A dilution of
thirty drops of iodine to one pint of water may be good (for the cow) as
an injection into the vagina two or three times a day. When recovery be-
gins, it may be completed and the system restored by giving sulphur once
or twice a day for a week. Wash the parts often with cold water, and in-
ject the same into the rectum and vagina. Allow no exercise of the sexual
instinct until a full and complete cure is effected.
CASTRATION.
Castration of calves should take place from the sixth week to the fifth
month, according to the animal’s strength, the weather, and the season.
The operation in calves is se]dom attended with serious results, though
proper precautions should be taken to prevent undue irritation or inflam-
mation. Medical treatment is generally unnecessary. For requisite infor-
mation on the methods of performing the operation the reader should con-
sult a competent operator. Suitable directions upon the care oF the animal
after castration, and upon the required treatment of resulting de y
aero W--77 74
BREATHING APPARATUS.
a, Solid Lungs, not movable. 6, c, Bones of the Bod , the Breast-Bone, c, extending the length of, the body. 1, 2, 3 4s
5; 6, Air-Cells of the Chest and Abdomen, the dotted lines s' owing the outline when the cells are inflated in breathing,
379
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380 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.
CHOLERA.—HEN DISTEMPER.
Though this disease is of comparatively recent appearance, it is the
most dreaded of all the maladies which afflict poultry. Its nature is per-
haps malarial, and it is certainly epidemic and highly contagious. Owing,
however, to its obscure origin and character, any disorder that is not under-
stood is quite likely to be called cholera.
Causes.—lt is caused, or at least promoted, by over-crowding in the
coop (though it invades flocks which have extensive runs), and its develop-
ment is favored by filth, unwholesome and irregular feed, exposure in
damp, malarial localities, stagnant drinking-water, extremes of heat and
dryness, and other unfavorable conditions mentioned in the opening re-
marks on health. It attacks fowls of all ages, but more readily the older
ones, and the very large and high-fed are especially liable to become its
victims. It is a well-grounded suspicion that the droppings contain the
germs of the disease, and some confidently maintain that it is the sole me-
dium of its infection. It is certain that special pains should be taken to re-
move them and render them ‘harmless by carbolic acid or, still better, by
covering them deeply with the plow.
Symptoms.—Owing to the liability of confusion with other diseases a
special study of the following symptoms is of the first moment. The fowl
at first- becomes weak, sometimes extremely so, staggers, and perhaps falls;
is dejected, sleepy, moping, and does not plume itself; has much thirst and
fever; gapes frequently; discharges from the bowels, mild at first, become
yellowish-green or like sulphur and water, growing thinner, greener and
frothy in the later stages, causing increased prostration, and persisting until
death in fatal cases; the skin about the vent perhaps very red, with black
spots; the animal may be “tucked up” with cramps; the crop fills with
wind and mucus, making the breathing fast and heavy; the fowl finally
fails to digest its food; the eyes are closed a few hours before death. Among
the later symptoms is the change of the comb and wattles to a pale or dark
hue. If the bird is opened after death, the liver will be found enlarged,
congested, fuli of dark blood, show a dark-green color, and be so tender
that it can be easily crushed with the fingers; the gizzard will be more or
less softened, often much contracted, and be filled with dried or greenish
food; the crop and intestines will perhaps be filled with sour, fermenting
food and mucus, possibly ulcerated, the intestines being much inflamed; the
blood will be darker and thicker than usual; the lungs and other organs
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POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 381,
will be engorged with blood; the heart enlarged; the testicles more or less
changed.
TREATMENT.—Treat promptly in the beginning. Remove the whole
flock at once to clean quarters, if possible, affording a dry, gravelly loca-
tion not previously used, and provide healthful housings. Separate the sick
and suspected from the others and give to each, if practicable, a place by
itself. Such isolation is desirable even for such as are supposed to be well,
to prevent a spread of the scourge. In general, observe as strictly as the
circumstances will permit, the directions previously given for “ Health of
Poultry”? and “Precautions in Sickness.” These measures will tend to
reduce the percentage of deaths, but the saving of all the flock need not be
expected.
Fowls which are too sick to eat should have every four or five hours a
pill made after the following formula of Dr. Dickie: Blue mass, 60 grains;
pulverized camphor, 25 grains; cayenne pepper, 30 grains; pulverized rhu-
barb, 48 grains; laudanum, 60 drops. Mix and make twenty pills. After
three or four pills have been taken, give to each bird half a teaspoonful of
castor oil and ten drops of laudanum. Give a scanty drink of scalded sour
milk, with the Douglass Mixture (see page 874) added in such quantities
that twenty-five fowls will get a gill of it per day. It is also well to add a
little tannic acid to the Douglass Mixture. Allow no other drink. The
one here mentioned is recommended even if the pills are not used. If the
evacuations from the bowels become darker and of a firmer consistence, as.
they should under this treatment, give a drink of alum-water, or strong
oak-bark tea, but no other, being careful not to make the change unless
such a condition of the droppings has ensued. The latter drink tends to
check the discharges.
It is evident that the pills prescribed above are pretty “ heroic.’? An-
other meritorious remedy, especially in the earlier stages, or at any time
when the crop remains full, is made of ten drops of strong tincture of
eucalyptus globulus, five grains of common salt and half a teaspoonful of
ground pepper, forcing it down in a tablespoonful of water (PARKER).
One writer vouches for the efficacy of the following:—Powdered
garlic, one ounce; tincture of capsicum, two drachms; tincture of camphor,
two drachms; tincture of rhubarb, a half-ounce; tincture of opium, one
drachm; tincture of the oil of peppermint, three drachms; all well mixed
and then shaken so that the garlic does not settle, the dose being six to eight
drops in a teaspoonful of water three times a day.
Since one flock responds to a given treatment more readily than another
does, we make mention of other remedies which have been tried with more
or less succes. Take equal parts of red (or cayenne) pepper, alum, rosin
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382 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
and sulphur, mix well and put into the food once a day, a tablespoonful
to three pints of scalded meal. Another renedy: Two taklespoonfuls of
epsom salts, four of lime, and ten drops of tincture of iron, put into a
gallon of meal. Again, coal oil is highly recommended, a few drops being
put into the food, and is well worth a trial. The simple treatment of con-
fining the fowls to a stiff paste of flour and water is of questionable efficacy,
though it doubtless tends to lessen the rapidity in the action of the bowels,
and, since it will thus retard the prostration, the paste may be used asa part
of the food.
To well fowls, and those slightly affected, give in the food a little
‘sulphur, soda, cayenne pepper and tincture of iron, a different one each day,
and add carbolic acid or fluid carbolate to the drink. As food for both of
these classes good authority favors warm boiled potatoes mashed up with
bran (or wheat, oatmeal, or barley meal) and sour milk, mixed with a
little pulverized charcoal and bicarbonate of soda. If the Douglass Mix-
ture is added to the food, it will have a good effect on the well birds. Asa
preventive, nothing has been found that is better than coal oil, or kerosene,
which may be given by soaking grain in it several hours before feeding it,
or by mixing a tablespoonful in a half-gallon of cornmeal. Powdered
charcoal in small quantities, put into the feed, will have a favorable tend-
ency. For obvious reasons lice and mites should be kept away, the food
be digestible and regularly given, the surroundings be absolutely clean, and
all hygienic measures be observed to keep up the tone of the system.
ROUP.—CROUP.—_ASTHMA.—_YAWS.
Roup is the second of the two most dreaded diseases of fowls and is,
therefore, given the second mention. It is a highly contagious malady
which first affects the lining membrane of the beak and then extends to
the eyes, throat and whole head, eventually involving the entire constitu-
tion. According to its more manifest symptoms, it has been called diph-
theria, sore head, swelled eyes, hoarseness, bronchitis, canker, snuffles, influ-
enza, sore throat, quinsy, blindness, and by other names, though some of
these are hereafter treated as separate diseases. It attacks all ages, but the
older birds more readily. It occasionally kills young ducks and turkeys.
Causes.—Filth, poor shelter, bad food, indeed anything which reduces
the tone of the system will favor the development of the disorder. Ex-
posure to wet and cold, and neglect of slight diseases of the nose, mouth,
and air-passages are prolific sources of the ill or at least conditions inviting
its appearance. It follows from the last remark that prompt attention to
other less malignant disorders may prevent much trouble and save many
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POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 383
lives. It is contracted by a well fowl coming in contact with a sick one,
or with the discharges from the eyes, nose and mouth, whether at the
drinking-place or elsewhere. The effluvia arising from the droppings is
an active provoking cause. If the discharge gets into the human eye
‘or on any break in the skin, it may produce serious inflammation, a fact
which makes it necessary to use great caution in handling the affected
animals.
Symptoms.—These develop either slowly or rapidly, beginning with
the general signs of a bad cold in the head, such as wheezing, coughing or
sneezing, high fever and great thirst. The discharge from the nose and
eyes is yellowish, being at first thin but growing thicker, opaque, very offen-
sive, and clogging up or even closing the eyes, nostrils and throat; these
parts and the whole head are swollen, sometimes enormously, so that
blindness ensues, making the fowl unable to get its food, and thus hastening
the decline of the system; pustular sores form about-the head and in the
throat, discharging a frothy mucus; the breathing is impeded; the crop
often swells; the comb and wattles may be pale or dark-colored; during
the course of the disease the fowl is feeble and moping. A fatal case
terminates in from three to eight days after the distinctive roup-symptoms
set in, andthose which are not treated when an epidemic is prevailing will
generally be fatal. Upon opening a dead fowl one will find the liver and
gall-bladder full of pus, the flesh soft, of a bad odor, and, particularly about
the lungs, slimy and spongy.
TREATMENT.—It is of the highest importance that treatment begin as
soon as the first symptoms appear. To detect the approach of the disease
—and any bird in the flock should be suspected if one has been infected —
raise the wing and ascertain whether the feathers beneath it are stuck
together by the discharge from the nostrils during sleep. Keep a close
watch on the nostrils and relieve the slightest clogging. At night visit
the roosts with a lantern and listen particularly for evidences of obstructed
breathing. Remove at once from the flock all infected and suspected
fowls, putting each by itself if practicable. Rigidly observe the directions
about cleanliness, disinfection, the removal of droppings, and other par-
ticulars which have been given for cholera. Take particular pains to keep
the discharge out of the reach of well fowls, especially by the purification
of drinking-vessels and other tainted objects; for which purpose carbolic
acid will be a valuable agent. Give to the sick fowls warm, stimulating
food, with some cayenne pepper. Onions will have a good effect if
chopped fine and mixed in the feed. Provide warm, dry, gravelly or sandy
shelter. The well fowls, too, should have absolutely wholesome food and
housing. No remedy can be relied upon to cure all cases of malignant
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384 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
roup, but either ot several will often be found measurably successful. A
teaspoonful of castor oil is advisable in the beginning. No other medicine
yet tried has been as good as the German Roup Pills, and they will cure
when anything can. Along with them give as a stimulant three pills daily,
as large as a pea, made of mustard and ground ginger. Also give pepper-
tea as a drink, as strong as for a human being. There is high authority in
favor of giving three pills a day, as large as the fowl can swallow, made
of equal parts of pulverized sulphur, powdered charcoal and new yeast,
with some such stimulant as is mentioned above. In all cases, put a little
powdered charcoal in the feed. When the disease persists for several days,
repeat the castor-oil purge recommended for the beginning.
Attention to the eyes, nostrils and face is absolutely essential, Wash
the head thoroughly witha solution of chlorate of potash and warm water,
equal parts, until the eyes and nostrils are opened and clean. Labarraque’s.
Solution of Chlorinated Soda is a still better wash, one part of it to two of
tepid water, and it should be used several times a day if the discharge is
excessive. Pure castile soap and warm water make another good wash.
When the discharge from the nostrils is excessive, it is advisable to inject
into them camphorated sweet oil, either through the external openings, or
from the inside through the slits in the roof of the mouth. For the last
operation, the small oil-can used about the sewing-machine will be con-
venient. Nitric acid is sometimes applied to the nostrils with a feather two
or three times a day, the old scab being removed each time. If the throat
is clogged with secretions, clear it out and apply the Chlorinated Soda be-
fore mentioned with a camel’s-hair brush. When the throat is swollen, re-
lief may be afforded by painting it with a weak solution of lunar caustic
(nitrate of silver), and putting into the drink ten drops of a solution of
equal parts of sulphite of magnesia and carbolate of lime. Difficulty in
breathing may be relieved in any stage by steaming; for which purpose
hold the head in a vessel containing scalded bran, still steaming, closing a
cloth neatly around the head to prevent the escape of the steam at the
sides, being careful not to keep the fowl in this position so long at one
time as to suffocate it. A hot stone in vinegar would be an excellent sub-
stitute for the scalded bran, and, indeed, some vinegar in the bran would be
serviceable. If patient bathing and steaming do not reduce the swelling
in the eyes, it may be necessary to open the tumor with a sharp knife and
remove the deposit. When the fowl is blind, so that it cannot eat, the
food should be put within its reach, or even brought to its mouth, and al-
ways be so soft that the soreness of the throat shall not prevent swallowing.
When the fowl has recovered, keep it away from the flock some time
and give it for several days a tonic, as tincture of iron, or rusty nails in the
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POULTRY: AND LARGE BIRDS. 385.
drink, or cayenne pepper, garlic, asafeetida, gentian or onions in the food,
The Douglass Mixture (see page 874) is among the best of tonics.
GAPES.
Chickens, turkeys, ducks and other domestic fowls, as well as many
species of wild birds, are subject to a disease which is known by the gen-
eral name “ gapes,” so cilled from the chief and universal symptom.
Cause.—The cause of this destructive malady is the presence in the
windpipe of a pale-reddish worm, popularly known as the gape-worm.
\
208. GarE-WorRM Aanp Ecos. 2cgo, GAPE- WORM WHEN THE FEMALE Is LapEN
witH Ecos.
fe
The female is about five-eighths of an inch long, having a diameter of one-
thirty-fifth of an inch. The male is one-eighth of an inch long, with a
diameter of one-fiftieth of an inch, and is always attached to the female as a
short branch, so that the two present the appearance of a single forked worm.
The head cf the female is much larger than that of the male, and is sup-
plied with six lips. Of the accompanying illustrations in 208, 1 shows
the two sexes together, natural size; the upper part of the same highly
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386 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
magnified is represented in 2. The tail of the female is shown 1n 3, this
particular one illustrating a marked instance of the general tendency of
this part to turn up in folds. The tail of the male, terminating in an ex-
tended cup or sucker, by means of which is effected the union with the
female, is shown by 4; 5 is one of the eggs, while 6 is the same with the
embryo far advanced in development. All of these except the first are
much magnified.
This worm is very prolific in the generation of its young, and pro-
duces them by depositing eggs either directly in the windpipe or in the
food, drink, droppings, soil, or other places from which they can be intro-
duced into the throat. The cuts in 209 exhibit the gape-worm when the
female is heavily laden with eggs, which are best seen on the jointed
branches. The second and fourth are life-size, the first and third being the
same highly magnified. The eggs will retain their life through much se-
vere exposure and harsh treatment, and their small size (about 1-250th of
an inch in their greatest diameter) shields them from notice. Indeed, it is
believed that even the lice carry them on their bodies to the fowls, and
this view perhaps sufficiently explains the facts from which some have
concluded that the gape-worm is one of the forms assumed by the louse.
The disease occurs oftenest in midsummer, in unthrifty birds, or in those
which have filthy quarters and unwholesome food and drink. It is most
common in young birds, though the older ones are not entirely exempt. It
prevails especially on premises where large flocks are kept.
Sympitoms.—Constant gaping is the distinctive symptom, and is at-
tended with difficult breathing, wheezing, coughing, unsuccessful attempts
to swallow, drooping, and if not arrested, general debility and death.
Every instance of gaping must not, however, be assumed as a case of real
gapes, for it may arise from mucus or other obstruction in the throat, or
from “crop-bound.” The experienced observer will detect the ailment
by the difference in severity of the symptom. Yet the treatment detailed
below may be safely followed.
TREATMENT.—This aims at the removal and destruction of the worms
in the windpipe. The easiest and most certain treatment consists in putting
some clear, transparent carbolic acid into a spoon or iron saucer and hold-
ing it over a lamp until dense white fumes arise, the fowl’s head being held
in these fumes until it is nearly suffocated. A number can be subjected to
this treatment at once by putting them into a close box in which the fumes
are generated, but extreme care will be necessary about continuing it so
long as to kill them. The fumes of sulphur, similarly applied, are a good
substitute, as is.also the vapor arising from heated spirits of turpentine or
creosote.
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POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 387
. Another excellent treatment is to strip a feather of the web, except
more or less of the lip, according to the size of the patient, dip it in turpen-
tine or kerosene oil, thrust it into the windpipe and turn it around several
times before withdrawing it. Some of the worms will come out with it,
others will be killed, and still others will be immediately coughed up, In
whatever way they are removed, they should be caught on ‘a paper and
burned. The same treatment in substance may be effected, with more cer-
tainty of removing the worms, by stripping a
feather as just directed (leaving about three-fourths
of an inch of the web for a chick of two to six
weeks), bending it down, without breaking or
cracking it, just below the web that is left, so that
it will make a smooth, sharp angle that can be
easily thrust into the throat. The accompanying
cut shows the feather before and after it is bent.
While an assistant holds the patient, open the beak
with the finger and thumb of one hand, take the
quill in the other, dip it in a solution of three parts
of spirits of turpentine to one of water, and thrust
the sharp angle into the windpipe as far as it will
go, twist it rapidly around, meanwhile drawing it
cout. A worm will almost surely come away with
it. Repeat the operation three or four times to
effect a cure, burning the worms that are removed.
Care must be taken to insure the insertion of the
feather into the windpipe, not into the gullet.
Thrust it down through the opening which an ex-
amination will reveal in the middle of the tongue.
‘The size of the feather should be carefully adjust-
ed to the fowl, being large enough to fill the wind-
pipe pretty closely. Mr. T. Conner, in recom- Pag areET ee
i i hod, says he “never failed to Benr vor THE REwovAL or
mending this method, say Bex t £On Tue
cure the worst case of gapes in this way.” Good
results may be expected if the feather is dipped into oil, salt-water, a weak
decoction of tobacco, or a weak solution of carbolic or sulphurous acid, in-
stead of the turpentine. A horse-hair, twisted up so as to form a fine loop,
may be successfully used to remove the worms, being twisted around as
directed for the feather, but it has no tendency to expel such as may not be
reached.
Turpentine smeared on the beak and neck is by some said to be sufh-
Camphor pills as large as a pea, or pieces of camphor-gum as large
cient.
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388 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
as grains of wheat, once a day, may be found sufficient,-either alone or in
connection with camphor or turpentine in the water or food, ten drops to a
pint. Powdered alum or sulphur blown down the windpipe will kill the
worms (and the patient too, if administered too freely or too often), Again,
by putting the fowls into a box covered with fine muslin and dusting lime
through it the worms may be destroyed, but caution must be used lest the
birds be smothered. Even as simple a treatment as crushed corn soaked in
alum-water or kerosene oil is commended by some. The practice of
pinching the throat to cause the worms to loose their hold, so they can be
coughed up, is of doubtful wisdom, but may be tried when the windpipe
is so full as to threaten suffocation. It may then be found necessary, when
all other expedients have failed, to dislodge the worms by surgical means.
Almost any one can perform the required operation by holding the wind-
pipe firmly, so it can not slip or roll, and then making a short slit with a
keen blade not far from the throat, afoxg the windpipe, and not across it.
After removing the worms and anointing the inside with weak carbolic
acid, turpentine or kerosene oil, sew up only the cut that is made in the out-
side of the skin, leaving the windpipe to heal of its own accord.
Preventive Measures.—Remove the sick fowls from the flock to pre-
vent infection. Burn all that die of the malady, and all worms that are
found. Soak with kerosene oil, crude petroleum or strong carbolic acid
the coops, roosts and grounds before admitting weil fowls to them. Rigidly
avoid all food that has been in the infected place, and burn it. When the
disease has invaded a flock, add to the drinking-water fluid carbolate, cam-
phor or lime. Boil the water before giving itif it is suspected of being
the cause. When the premises are badly infected, raise the young fowls
indoors, or in any place completely removed from danger. In some cases.
it may be found that the feed is the sole cause of the disease, and a change
to corn (crushed if the fowls are too small to swallow it whole) may
give complete relief, though the precautions for cleaning the apartments
must still be observed and the water be kept pure.
COLD.—CATARRH.—_COUGH.— BRONCHITIS.
All of these are substantially different stages and symptoms of the same
disorder. Exposure to wet and cold is the general cause. Cough is, in-
deed, a symptom, not a disease, and is connected with the other three. It
may, however, attend other diseases, and when its cause is not known the
articles pertaining to roup and cholera should especially be consulted.
Bronchitis is but an advanced stage or aggravated form of cold or catarrh.
The three are marked by more or less discharge from the eyes and nostrils,
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POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 389
sneezing, wheezing, and, particularly in bronchitis, coughing and a rat-
tling, hoarse sound in the throat. To distinguish these from roup, see
whether the discharge is offensive. If it is, roup is to be treated; if not,
catarrh or bronchitis. In all cases of doubt, use the precautions detailed
for roup.
TREATMENT.—Remove the fowls to warm, dry shelter and give warm,
soft food. These measures will usually be sufficient, but the following will
be valuable as aids: For cold or catarrh merely—and no distinction between
them is here made—put three drops of the strong tincture of aconite in a pint
of the drink; if there is swelling about the throat, two or three grains of the
second trituration of mercurius three times a day will be useful; euphrasia,
the same as to form, dose and frequency, is desirable for worse instances of
this symptom. For bronchitis, in addition to the measures just named, give
sweetened water for the drink, adding « few drops of nitric or sulphuric
acid. For both catarrh and bronchitis give some stimulant, as ginger or
cayenne pepper in the food. The German Roup Pills will also be found of
service. Treat catarrh and cold promptly, to keep them from developing
into roup. Do not neglect bronchitis, lest it run into consumption,
CONSUMPTION.
\
This arises from neglected colds, catarrh and bronchitis, as also from
long-continued in-and-in breeding, confinement in dark, unwholesome
quarters, and heredity. Its essential feature is a tubercular deposit in the
lungs, with a general derangement of the constitution.
Symptoms.—In the earlier stages there are no obvious symptoms.
Later, a cough comes on, with weakness and loss of flesh, however good
the feeding. When a cough persists in spite of all treatment, consumption
should be suspected.
TREATMENT.—* Take a sharp hatchet and apply it just back of the
comb,” is Mr. Ward’s laconic advice. The affected fowl is worthless for
flesh or for breeding. :
PIP.
By this term, which has been indiscriminately applied to so many affec-
tions, is here meant the disorder which is marked by a horny scale at the
point of the tongue. It is only a symptom of some disease, but it demands
treatment to avoid a possible case of catarrh or roup. It is probably caused
by exposure in damp or cold weather.:
Symptoms.—Beside the scale on the tip of the tongue, there will be
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390 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
noticeable a peculiar pip, or “‘zip”’ noise; breathing disturbed and effected
through the mouth; dry tongue; moping and retiring mood; loss of appe-
tite; irregular and dilatory movements; generally costiveness, perhaps from
indigestion; sometimes considerable heat of the body, especially in the belly
near the thighs.
TREATMENT.—Afford dry, warm shelter. If there be costiveness or
indigestion, give a dose of castor oil. Apply to the tongue and nostrils a
weak solution of chlorinated soda, if any local remedy is used, but do not
clip off the end of the tongue, as some have advised. Sauna, as recom-
mended for mercurius in catarrh, may be used on general principles. The
treatment, which consists merely in giving two or three grains of black
pepper each day in fresh butter may be resorted to with a good deal of
confidence. In any case, give no food except such as has been cooked and
is easily digested.
CHIP.
Chip, or chipping, so named from the peculiar noise made by the pa-
tient, is a disease which resembles roup, and attacks young chickens, with
very fatal results if not promptly treated. It arises from exposure to wet,
in consequence of which the down on the body is kept wet for a long time.
Symptoms.—The plaintive “chip” is continued; the feathers droop
and lose their gloss; the chicken is very tender when touched, retires to a
solitary place, sits trembling constantly and violently, having fever and
heat of the body, and gradually sinks and dies.
TREATMENT.—Remove the patient to a dry, warm place, handling it
gently. In the early stages give coichicum every two or three hours, ten
drops of the strong tincture being put into a pint of water, and ten to fif-
teen drops of this dilution being taken for a dose.
CANKERS ABOUT THE MOUTH AND HEAD.
These have been already alluded to as being perhaps particular mani-
festations of roup, and it is best, in general, to proceed with the treatment
detailed for that malady. Such cankers, if they exist independently of roup,
are caused by poor housing, filth and unwholesome food. They are marked
by a watery discharge from the eyes and a somewhat sticky secretion in
the mouth and throat. Ifit is known that roup is not the seat of the dis-
order, it will be sufficient to wash the affected parts with warm water
(adding castile soap if they are gummy), clean out the throat and mouth
with a weak solution of chlorate of potash, alum and water, swab off the
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POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 391
ulcers with a feather or very soft brush, and apply powdered borax in small
quantities to the spots thus made bare. Stir into the food a little sulphur.
DIPHTHERIA.
Reference has been made to this as a manifestation of roup. Though
it is treated separately by some, it is deemed best in this work, for precau-
tionary reasons if for no other, to refer the reader to the remarks upon that
disease. It may, however, be remarked that, if one has a fowl suffering
from a mouth and throat filled with mucus, and attended with small white
ulcers about the tongue, it is advisable to blow into the mouth and throat
powdered burnt alum, or equal parts of chlorate of potash and pulverized :
borax, being careful to remove the patient to prevent possible infection.
Should this effect a cure, one may be confident that the disorder was not
diphtheria in any true sense of the term.
SORE EYES AND HEAD.
The eyes may become sore from dust, excessive heat, dampness, and
other causes, and give out a watery discharge. The whole head may be-
come involved in the inflammation. Such mild affections are to be dis-
tinguished from cankers and from roup; but it is always safe to keep a
sharp look-out for roup when the eyes are sore.
TREATMENT.—Wash the parts with a weak solution of white vitriol
(sulphate of zinc), or with alum-water, or with a solution of alum and
camphor. If the discharge has become gummy or hardened, remove it
with warm water and castile soap, following up with one of the lotions
here named, or with one of sulphate of lead. Give sulphur in the food,
using the powdered form. Avoid the exciting causes mentioned above.
INDIGESTION.—DYSPEPSIA.
This disorder is a failure to properly digest and assimilate the food,
and exhibits a variety of causes, conditions and results. It more frequently
arises from too rich, unwholesome, or excessive food, too free use of grain
and other hard feed, cold, general weakness, to say nothing of it as a symp-
tom of various other affections.
Symptoms.—Listless mood; want of appetite; sometimes scanty drop-
pings, sometimes free, as in diarrhoea and dysentery; fever; crop swollen
in some cases, with a “tucked-up” appearance, as if from pain in the
stomach; perhaps a sickly, yellowish hue in the comb and wattles, indica-
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892 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
tive of disorder in the liver; in young chickens, sometimes sinking of the
breast-bone.
TREATMENT.—Give less food and only such as is soft, mild and easily
digested. Limit the drink. Give cut green grass or chopped onions in
the food. See Crop-Bound, Constipation, and Diarrhea.
LIVER DISEASE.
This name, used in all domestic practice with such an indefinite mean-
‘ing, is here applied to a disease of the liver which causes loss of flesh, a
sickly appearance about the comh, wattles and head, and sudden death,
The liver, upon opening the dead fowl, is found soft, with cheesy matter in
‘different parts of it, and sometimes a broken blood-vessel. It is said to be
more common in Cochins. It is best to destrov an affected fowl at once.
One authority recommends small doses of mercury followed by cod-liver
oil and Parrish’s Food as being of measurable value.
CROP-BOUND AND WATER-CROP.
The crop may become engorged in consequence of the swallowing of
a bone, hard corn or other indigestible food which closes the passage into the
stomach.. The latter organ being empty, hunger may induce the taking of
more food, and thus aggravate the difficulty. Indigestion alone may cause it.
Tn addition to the hardness of the crop, the fowl is uneasy and tosses its head.
TREATMENT.—Give very little or no food for a time. If this does
-not afford relief, pour down the throat some warm water and gently knead
“the crop for an hour, or until its contents are soft, then give two teaspoon-
‘fuls of castor oil. If the difficulty still persists, take a sharp knife and cut
a slit an inch long, more if necessary, in the top or at the side, and remove
the contents gently but thoroughly with the handle of a spoon, afterward
passing the finger, previously oiled, all over the inside, to be sure that
everything is taken out (particularly from the opening toward the stomach).
‘Sew up the external skin with white silk, or, better still, with surgeons’
thread, being careful not to stitch it to the crop, and leaving the wound in
the latter to heal of its own accord. Anoint the parts with witch-hazel
oil. Give no food or drink for twenty-four hours, and for a week there-
after only a small allowance of soft, easily-digested food.
By water-crop is meant a form of crop-bound which results from
‘greediness in taking drink. The crop is not so hard and may contain wind
or gas with the water. The disorder is corrected by cutting down the
‘feed and the drink for some days, and putting chopped onions or garlic, or
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393
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3894 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
cayenne pepper in what food is given. Also put into the morning feed
sal volatile, half a teaspoonful to each fowl, and into the drink a little
nitric acid. Do not mistake this for true crop-bound.
COSTIVENESS.—CONSTIPATION.
Costiveness is caused by indigestion, taking cold, too close confine-
ment, too much dry food and too little green, deficient supply of good
water, and the like. It is indicated by frequent attempts to evacuate the
bowels, either wholly unsuccessful or resulting only in small, hard and
dark droppings. The fowl is uneasy and perhaps staggers.
TREATMENT.—Give an abundance of green food, and a soft mixture
of bran and oatmeal. Ten drops of sulphate of magnesia may be added
to a pint of the drinking-water. Along with an observance of these direc-
tions for the food it will be well to give aconite until the restlessness disap-
pears, following then with nux vomica; or, if a cold is the cause, give
bryonia. The last three remedies are to be given on the homeopathic
plan, in doses as for children, according to the age.
DIARRHEA AND DYSENTERY.
These disorders may result from an excessive use of green food, tainted
food or impure water, extreme heat, exposure in damp weather, filthy quar-
ters, general indigestion, poisons, or any inflammatory affection of the in-
testines or stomach.
Symptoms.—Loose droppings of different colors, which befoul the
feathers; lassitude and loss of condition. In dysentery, which results from
a diseased condition of the intestines, the droppings are more frothy, min-
gled with é/ood and attended with rapid prostration. A form of diarrhea
essentially different from the two described, occurs in old female fowls, in
which a avhite discharge comes away more or less constantly, often drib-
bling out, and keeps the feathers about the vent encrusted with a white,
chalk-like deposit. It is doubtless due to some derangement in the shell-
making function, and can best be treated by promoting the general health
and using the means noted below.
TREATMENT.—Give two pills daily, as large as a pea, made of a mix-
ture of five grains of powdered chalk, five of rhubarb and three of cayenne
pepper, adding one-half grain of opium in severe cases. Another good
remedy is camphorated spirits on barley-meal, three to six grains for each
bird according to the age; or ten to twenty drops of the same may be put
in a pint of the drink. For mild cases, and in the early stages of others,
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POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 395:
finelty-powdered chalk on boiled rice may be sufficient. The remedy last
- named is recommended for the white discharges of old females, for which
the pills prescribed above should also be tried, as well as a little lime-water
(see page 367). Restrict the drink in all forms of these disorders, and
put into it a little alum or tincture of iron. Dysentery, with bloody dis-
charges, is a serious disorder; it is best to give a dose of castor oil and fol-
low with three to six drops of laudanum every few hours, supplying an ex-
clusive diet of mild gruels. It is of importance that the patient be kept
quiet and apart from the flock, especially in dysentery. Homeopathic
doses, every two hours, of ipecac and chamomilla can be recommended
with confidence, as can arsenicum when bad food is the cause. In spite of
all treatment diarrhea may become chronic. If so, and even before, small
doses of sweet oil may be found beneticial. In all cases keep a sharp look-
out for cholera and isolate the affected bird when you are at all doubtful
regarding the nature ‘of the disorder. Bone-dust is used as a preventive of
diarrheea and it is well to put a little in the feed for some days after a cure.
has been effected, and also to thus occasionally administer it to well fowls.
WORMS.
Worms in the stomach will produce substantially the same symptoms
as indigestion. If they are in the bowels, costiveness or diarrhcea may be
more marked, while the fowl will be uneasy and pick at the vent if they
are in the lower part of the intestine. In all cases there will be more or
less loss of flesh, and often diminished gloss in the feathers, while the bird
has either an impaired or voracious appetite. The only unmistakable
symptom is the presence of worms in the droppings when they first pass.
out. An unhealthy condition of the digestive organs is the main cause.
TREATMENT.—A dose of castor oil, followed by a light addition of
sulphur to the food, may expel the worms and restore the general health.
A little cayenne pepper in the feed and rusty nails in the water will aid the
cure. The use of cina and santonine can be highly recommended.
INFLAMMATION OF THE FORE-STOMACH.
Inflammation of the stomach may arise from improper food, such as
that which is too stimulating. Its symptoms are not readily distinguished,
but it may be suspected when a fowl pines away without an obvious cause
and chooses only soft, cold food, especially if there be increased thirst, a
“tucked-up’”’ appearance, and an abnormal heat in the fore part of the
belly. Loose, corroding droppings may be noticed.
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396 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
TREATMENT. —Give only soft, mild food and not very cold drink,
‘using the treatment, in the main, that is detailed for Indigestion.
CORE.
This is a deposit or excrescence in the gullet, or in the organs of diges-
‘tion further down, sometimes being dark, sometimes brownish-yellow,
sometimes ochre-colored and mingled with blood.
TREATMENT.—For obvious reasons it will hardly be detected unless a
-dead fowl is opened. Then others of the flock may, as a precaution, be
treated with mercurius, china and silicea, upon the homeopathic pginciple.
PARALYSIS.—APOPLEXY.—MEGRIMS.—STAGGERS.
These are all affections of the nervous system due to an excessive
‘flow of blood to the head, or to a weak condition in the blood-vessels of
the brain which makes them incapable of bearing their normal pressure.
When a fowl is made to stagger from this cause, or to run in a circle, or
flutter, without other manifestations, the disorder is called megrims, staggers,
dizziness or vertigo. This may become chronic and thus leave no doubt
regarding its nature; but mere dizziness and staggering also appear in
-constipation, roup, idles: and other diseases characterized by weakness.
Geese sometimes stagger in consequence of parasites in the ear, and ani-
mals suffering from such a disorder will show symptoms so similar to
those of real staggers that the difference will scarcely be detected. If the
‘staggers are followed by falling and unconsciousness, apoplexy has come on.
Either of these forms may show a temporary or permanent relief as soon
as the blood leaves the brain. Should a blood-vessel be ruptured, the
-disorder is known as paralysis, and the fowl either dies at once or suffers
an impairment or loss of the use of one or more of its limbs. Such par-
alysis may be relieved and occasionally the recovery may be apparently
-complete.
Cause.—In addition to the above causes, high feeding conduces to
‘the pressure on the brain, Indian corn being especially bad for some breeds.
Any too stimulating food tends to the same end, as well as mechanical in-
juries, violent exertions, disorders of the spine, or even the mild straining
in laying anegg. Some of these influences may give rise to temporary
or permanent paralysis in the leg or wing, which will disappear if the
exciting cause is removed.
TREATMENT.—In all of these disorders, remove the patient from the
flock and keep it free from excitement and in a dark place. Hold the
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POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 397
head under a stream of cold water to drive the blood from the brain, and’
afterward give a'light diet. Give aconite if the skin is dry and hots bella-
donna, for heat about the head and convulsive movements of the head;,
nux vomica, for the first indications of the disorder; opium for the uncon-
scious state of apoplexy. Beside this treatment, sini independently of it,.
paralysis may be benefited by one-sixteenth grain doses of strychnine, but
it should not be resorted to until a day or two after the first paroxysm has.
occurred and the fowl has begun to hobble about and take its food. Either
of these diseases may be profitably treated for some days after apparent.
recovery with two doses per day of bromide of potassium, four to ten
grains at a time, according to the age. It may be remarked, finally, that
treatment has been detailed for fowls that are of a particular value for
food, exhibitions, or eggs for the table, since those of little value are not:
worth the pains, and no affected bird is fit for breeding purposes.’
RHEUMATISM, CRAMPS AND GOUT.
Rheumatism is generally caused by exposure to wet, as in the grass in.
the morning, damp coops or roosts, and by hereditary influences. Cramps’
may arise from rheumatism, or from the same causes as_ the latter, but
some forms are produced by indigestion, internal inflammation, diarrhcea
and dysentery. In rheumatism the limbs suffer an impairment or loss of
use, are hot, swollen and stiff, the toes being often drawn out of shape; the
fowl persistently sits down and can not use the perch; the heart may
become involved and thus induce death, preceded by excitable uneasiness.
In the treatment, give warm, dry shelter, and good, stimulating, easily
digested food, including a little cooked meat each day. Rub the affected
parts with hot mustard-water, immediately wiping them dry. Oil of
witch-hazel is a good ointment, as are also lard and butter.
Gout attacks Asiatics especially, and is characterized by hot, swollen
and inflamed feet. Keep the fowl in a warm, dry place, and feed as for
Rheumatism. Give three drops of the wine of colchicum twice a day and
a quarter to a half of a grain of calomel at night. Rub the limbs with.
sweet oil. Give bryonia to turkeys suffering from this disease.
DEBILITY AND LEG-WEAKNESS.
Close confinement without fresh air, continued exhibitions, shock or
fright, injuries, or imperfect development of the nervous system, may pro-
duce general debility. The symptoms are loss of spirits, appetite and con-
dition, with constitutional prostration. Insure rest. Give nourishing food,
\
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398 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
araw fresh egg being a good diet while the appetite is impaired, followed
up with a little cooked meat. As a tonic, put a few drops of muriate of iron
in the drinking-water, rusty nails in the water being also of service.
Leg-weakness is due to prolonged in-and-in breeding, to high feeding,
which increases the weight of the body more rapidly than the muscular
strength, and to deficiency of the earthy matter of the bones. It most often
attacks Cochins, Brahmas and other large breeds, and young cocks are
more liable to it than others of a flock. Its nature should be closely
studied so as to distinguish it from rheumatism, gout and debility. Its sole
manifestation is repeated or constant squatting on the hocks or belly, some-
times with utter inability to stand. In the way of treatment, feed wheat,
barley, meat and other articles that do not tend to produce fat. In warm
weather dip the legs in cold water twice a day. Give three times a day a
pill made of a mixture of five grains of phosphate of lime, one-sixteenth of
a grain of strychnine, and a half-grain of sulphate of quinine. Also supply
a tonic of iron, a few drops of the tincture or some rusty nails in water.
Occasionally give lime-water (see page 367) as a drink.
SCALY LEGS.—ELEPHANTIASIS.
This chiefly attacks old birds of the Asiatic breeds, and is caused by an
insect which, with its eggs and cast-off skin, increases the size of the scales
which form on the legs. Too close confinement, over-feeding, damp or
muddy quarters, insufficient meat and too little green food are exciting
causes. The insects sometimes infest the comb and then require the treat-
ment given below. The disease is contagious and may be transmitted to
other animals or to man. It is characterized by a whitish scurf on the legs
and toes, sometimes a half-inch thick on the former, which may grow hard
if neglected,
TREATMENT.
well with water and soap, using a stiff brush to remove a part of the scurf
Keep the fowl in a clean, dry place. Wash the legs
at a time if it has become hard; then smear with lard and sulphur mixed,
or with kerosene oil. Lard and coal-tar make a good ointment; vinegar or
glycerine may be sufficient for mild cases. Some use a wash of a weak
solution of sugar of lead in the morning and apply a dilution of creosote
at night. Stoddard’s Poultry Ointment will effect a cure without any of
the above remedies. Jt should be kept on the shelf in every poultry-house
convenient for use. Night is the best time to apply it. This disorder is
sometimes called itch, but by the latter term we generally mean a condition
in which parasites are ¢z the skin. Another form of itch in poultry is con-
sidered on the next page.
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POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 399
BUMBLE-FOOT.—BOILS,.—ABSCESSES.—TUMORS.
Bumble-Foot is a swelling, wart, or corn on the ball of the foot which
grows in size, becomes soft, and ulcerates. It is caused by bruises from
alighting heavily on hard surfaces, and from roosting on small or rough
perches.
TREATMENT.—Remove the patient to quarters without perches. If the
part be painted with iodine in the first stages, a cure will often be effected.
Should the swelling continue and be slow in ulcerating, bind on a_ poultice
of bread or turnip. After it has “gathered,” open freely with a sharp
blade, wash out the sore with warm water and castile soap, and dip the
foot two or three times a day in water, to which has been added sulphate of
‘copper in the proportion of one-fourth of an ounce to a quart of water.
During the formation of pus, and while it is discharging, give mercurius.
Botls and Abscesses may occur on any part of the body, and require
the same treatment, in the main, as is recommended for Bumble-Foot.
Fatty Zamors may form on various parts without causing any serious
trouble aside from their inconvenience. As treatment, cut them out with a
sharp knife, preserving the skin so it can be drawn completely over the
‘opening. Sew the skin together, leaving a small hole at the lowest part for
the pus to escape. Put on the sore thus left a lotion of calendula or arnica
for a few days. Supply wholesome food and quarters to promote the health.
CHICKEN-POX AND ITCH.
CuickEN—Pox.—This is characterized by small ulcers on the head and
face, on which scabs will form. It is not to be confounded with roup; nor
with the dry, horny scales which sometimes form on the face. It is con-
tagious but not dangerous, occurs principally in cold, wet weather, and per-
haps results from peculiar atmospheric conditions. In the treatment, keep
the parts clean with water and castile soap and apply vinegar or a strong
solution of chlorate of potash, giving a little sulphur internally. Put a tea-
spoonful each of pulverized charceal and sulphur ina pint of soft food. To
prevent contagion, keep the sick fowls from the flock.
Ircu.—Fowls that are kept in unclean quarters and without fresh
water are subject, in summer, to an itching eruption, with more or less loss
of feathers. Insure absolute cleanliness. Give sulphur once daily for three
days; then staphisagria for the same time; finishing with sulphur. If the
eruption takes the form of ulcers, give dulcamara. It will be noticed that this
disorder is not characterized by the presence of parasites in the skin, as is the
case with itch in the human body. Scrupulous cleanliness may suffice.
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ED WHITE POLISH.
WHITE-CRESTED BEARD
212,
400
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POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 401
WHITE-COMB AND SCURFY SKIN.
When fowls, especially Cochins, are kept in small, unhealthy quarters,
or are deprived of fresh green food, a whitish, dust-like scurf sometimes
appears at the bottom of the comb, afterward covers all of it, and then ex-
tends over the wattles and neck. The feathers on the affected parts lose
their web, the bare quill being left, and it may in tum drop off, the fowl
dying in extreme cases. The disorder is contagious. After recovery, the
feathers will come off at the next moulting season.
TREATMENT.—Remove the exciting causes mentioned above, in the
diet and location. Apply Stoddard’s Poultry Ointment, or a mixture of
tar and sulphur. Good authority claims that turmeric has a special efficacy;
it may be used in an ointment made of one-quarter of an ounce of turmeric
and one ounce of cocoanut oil. If lard be substituted for the cocoanut oil,
as it may be, the ointment should be made fresh for every application, and
should be occasionally removed thoroughly from the affected parts. Give
internally ten to forty drops of castor oil, according to the age, with a tea-
spoonful of powdered sulphur in the food. Remove the affected fowls to
prevent contagion.
A scurf resulting from the same causes as white-comb may appear
about the face, comb and neck, perhaps in the form of dry, bony scales,
but without the distinctive features of the disease last treated. The meas-
ures given for white-comb are, however, to be adopted. Do not confound
this with roup or chicken-pox because of the similar symptoms.
BLACK-ROT.
In consequence of indigestion, lack of variety in the feed, want of exer-
cise or of green food, the comb may turn black, the feet and legs swell, and
general loss of flesh take place. The malady is known as black-rot, and
probably occurs oftenest in Spanish fowls.
TREATMENT.—This is useless except in the early stages. Give then
a light dose of castor oil, following with warm, nourishing food and some
such simple tonic as rusty nails in the drink, or tincture of iron. Observe
the general directions given for Indigestion.
MOTTLED FACE AND EARS.
Red spots sometimes appear on the face of black Spanish fowls, and
on the ear-lobes of Leghorns and similar breeds. The keeping of the sexes
together is the cause, and their separation the cure and prevention. Sweet
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402 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
oil, spirits of turpentine, or a superior article of whiskey may be smeared
on to restore the original color. Confinement in dark quarters will aid, and
it will also produce that whiteness of these parts which fanciers so much
desire when exhibiting fowls at the public shows.
BAD MOULTING AND FLEDGING.
The period of moulting, in which the old feathers are shed and new
ones come in, is a critical one for old fowls in particular, and only less so
for others, in consequence of the drain on the digestive and other functions
incident to the formation of the new coat. The process may be made slow
or irregular by improper food, close confinement, prolonged in-and-in
breeding, and other debilitating influences, and will then be marked by in-
activity and general wasting. Akin to this function, not only in nature but
also in origin and treatment, is fledging, or the formation of the first coat on
young fowls.
TREATMENT.—This is mainly the same for both moulting and fledg-
ing. To assist the function, it is well in all cases to give a little tincture of
iron, or to put some rusty nails in the drink, and slightly increase the al-
lowance of lean meat. Add Douglass Mixture (see page 366) to the
drink, a teaspoonful to each pint. Give soft warm food in the morning,
and, for old birds especially, grain at night. Keep the fowls warm and out
of the wet. Calcarea carbonica and agaricus are valuable remedies.
SHOOTING-THE-RED.
In turkeys the development of “the red”? about the head and neck is
as natural as moulting and fledging are to all birds. It is so unmistakable
in its manifestations as to need no description. To assist the function, make
powders of three parts of cassia bark, ten of ginger, one of gentian, one of
anise and five of carbonate of iron. Give to each twenty turkeys, in the
feed, a teaspoonful twice a day, commencing two weeks before it is time
for the red to appear, and continuing some weeks afterward.
LICE.
Lice absorb the juices of the body and cause persistent pecking and
scratching, great depression, loss of flesh, and even death. The symptoms
are such as to create a suspicion of some serious constitutional derange-
ment, and all poultry sick from a cause that is not certainly known should
be examined to ascertain whether these pests are on’ the body. They are
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POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 403
bred in great numbers in filthy quarters and nests, and in flocks deprived
of earth-baths, They are especially prone to take shelter in the tufts of
crested birds.
TREATMENT.—Attend to the directions for “ Cleanliness” given on
page 361), remembering that the droppings and other filth are favorite
haunts. Thoroughly dust into the roots of the feathers Persian Insect
Powder, preferably with one of the powder blowers or bellows, In the
absence of this, dip the fowls in a bath made of one part of carbolic acid
and sixty of water. A good expedient is the application of suds of car-
bolic soap on such places as are specially infested. The use of any such
fluids as these should be attended with caution to prevent colds. An oint-
ment of sulphur, kerosene oil and lard may be spread under the wings of
full-grown fowls, but young ones have been injured and even killed by a
too free use of kerosene, as well as by sulphur when mixed with lard.
Smearing with simple lard, lard oil, or whale oil, is better for the young.
A thorough rubbing or dusting with powdered sulphur has often been suf-
ficient, and yellow snuff is highly recommended for the same purpose.
Wormwood and tansy teas are good, as well as oil of fennel. Absinthum
and sulphur are good internal remedies. Tone up the system with cayenne
pepper, iron, nourishing food and cleanly quarters.
RED MITES.
These are scarcely less troublesome than lice, are exceedingly annoy-
ing, and will survive very harsh treatment.
TREATMENT.—-Proceed as for lice. If the pests are not killed or
driven off, and you are willing to stain the plumage of white birds, grind
together two ounces of sulphur, two ounces of camphor soda, a half-ounce
of carbolic acid or tobacco leaf, and a piece of lime as large as a hen’s
egg; steep in hot water until thoroughly. mixed; let the whole stand
until perfectly settled, and then pour it off so as to get out all of the
sediment. When it is cold, thoroughly apply it through the feathers
with a stiff brush. The ointment of sulphur, lard and kerosene oil,
recommended for lice, may be well rubbed under the wings, on the
back of the neck, and on the vent. It is a reliable remedy, but the
cautions about its use on young fowls must be observed, or fatal effects
will ensue.
CHILLS.—FROST-BITE.
Young fowls are sometimes benumbed by cold, and even apparently
dead. They should be dipped in water as warm as the hand can comfort-
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404 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
ably bear until they revive, and then be kept in a warm place until com-
pletely restored.
The comb, wattles and feet are especially exposed to the frost and
may be deformed or destroyed thereby. In the less severe cases, the
crown of the comb and edges of the wattles first become purplish and then
pale and bloodless. Prevention is the best treatment and an excellent
means to this end is the oiling of the exposed parts in the beginning of
and during “cold snaps.” At such times the thoughtful fancier will fre-
quently examine his fowls to detect any existing or threatened cases, If
possible, treat before the parts have thawed any. R.ub on snow, very cold
water, or pounded ice until the parts have become pliable; then bathe with
camphorated spirits, or with “hot drops.” If the thawing has taken place
by changes in the weather, it may be beneficial to apply sweet oil, glycer-
ine or carbolate of cusmoline until all soreness subsides.
DEFORMITIES.
Bone-WEN, or SpLint.—This is an enlargement or excrescence
about the bones of the joints. It is incurable.
CrooxEeD Breast-Bone.—This results from using perches that are
too narrow or convex, and should be treated by removing the cause.
Wry-Tait.—lIf this does not result from a deformed spine, it may be
improved by cutting the tendon which draws the tail aside; or by cutting
out a bit of the flesh on the side opposite to that toward which the tail
points, the healing of the cut forming a scar which will tend to draw the
tail back to its normal position.
SquirREL-TaiL.—By this is meant a tail which turns up over the
back like that of a squirrel. It is best treated by cutting. the tendon which
holds the tail in that position.
WeB-Foor.—Web-foot in young land-fowls may be cured by cutting
the web between the toes with scissors. The cut will heal spontaneously.
ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES.
Porsons.—Too much caution cannot be taken when using rat’s-bane,
strong carbolic acid, Paris green and other poisons. They should be sedu-
lously kept out of the reach of poultry. When it is known or suspected
that poison has been taken, pour warm water down the throat and then
hold the fowl up by the feet until it runs out. Repeat this several times.
When a fowl mects with an accident which seriously disables it, the best
treatment is to kill it, unless a special value attaches to it which will war-
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POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 405
vant the pains of prolonging the life of an animal which, at best, will prob-
ably be maimed. A few injuries which may be subjected to treatment in
specially valuable birds are here mentioned.
Cuts anv Orner Wounps.—Clean out all dirt and other foreign
substances. Draw the lips of the wound nicely together and secure them
with strips of adhesive plaster (which will generally make it necessary to
shave off some feathers), laying them across the wound and leaving spaces
between them for the escape of any pus that may form. Dress with a
lotion of calendula. To keep out maggots and ward off gangrene, put on
some preparation of carbolic acid. Should the wound be much inflamed
and slow in healing, apply the calendula-lotion. Sweet oil rubbed on any
wound will exclude dirt and thus favor the healing. If the wound gapes
badly, it may be sewed up. If the bleeding is profuse and does not stop
after the lips are brought together, apply cold water or pounded ice.
CracxEep Hocx.—The skin on the inside of the hock-joint may crack
and seriously impair the use of the limb. The cracking is preceded by a
weakness and wavering about the hock, perhaps even by squatting as in
leg-weakness or rheumatism. Apply fir-balsam ointment to effect a cure.
As a preventive, when the weakness about the hock is noticed, bathe the
joints three times a day with a liniment made of sweet oil and ammonia,
equal parts, and give two pills daily of lard, three parts, and cayenne
pepper, one part.
Bruises are best treated by applying calendula-lotion or arnica,
though the efficacy of the latter is ridiculously exaggerated.
Lameness.—When this is not a symptom of paralysis, gout, rheuma-
tism or broken bone, it may result from a sprain, and is then best treated
by pouring cold water on the affected joint and putting on some liniment.
BRroKEN AND DisLocaTEeD Bonres.—These disorders may exist without
the knowledge of an.observer, unless he is well versed in the anatomy of
fowls. Though fractures wiil occasionally heal fairly well without treat-
ment, fanciers will sometimes wish to try their hands at surgery in order
to reduce the chances of deformities. Bring the broken ends together
until they fit neatly, as indicated by the touch. Cover the part with thick
paper previously well soaked in white of egg or mucilage, closely adapting
it to the shape of the limb; then bind on strips of pasteboard, also care-
fully adjusted to the shape. Keep the fowl by itself, as quiet as possible,
and deprived of the use of the limb if practicable. The resulting fever
may be treated by showering the limb with cold water. When a wing is
broken, bring the ends of the bone together as well as you can, close the
wing, tie the quills together, secure the wing to the side, if possible, and
prevent attempts to fly.
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406 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
Dislocations may be reduced by drawing the affected limb, gently and
firmly, and turning it around in any direction which a knowledge of the
joint suggests as suited to the return of the bones to their positions.
DISORDERS PECULIAR TO FEMALE FOWLS.
Some knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the organs con-
nected with the formation and laying of the egg is requisite to an
understanding of the disorders peculiar to female fowls. Of the accom-
panying cuts the first represents the ovary, resembling a cluster of fruits,
in which the egg, first appearing as a very small
yolk, is fertilized and remains a few days. It
then passes into and through a canal, called the
THE Ovary. Tue OvipuctT.
A parti ly formed egg (sec 214) is dropping froin tne ovary into the upper end of the oviduct, and a
mature one, ready to be laid, is near the lower end, close to the branch of the gut,
oviduct, shown in the second cut, in which it receives the successive layers of
the white. It finally lodges in an enlargement called the uterus, in which
it remains until it is ready to be expelled, or “laid.”
Ecc—Bounp.—Sometimes the egg in the uterus (represented by the
enlargement toward the bottom of cut 214, near the lower end of the gut)
becomes too large to be expelled, and the fowl remains on the nest in vaim
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POULTRY AND LARGE BIRDS. 407
efforts to expel it, or comes off and walks about in a distressed mood, with
the wings hanging. Cochins are especially subject to this difficulty.
Relief may be afforded by giving a light dose of castor oil, but it is better
to wash out the vent with water and inject into the uterus (not the gut)
an ounce of sweet oil. If an oiled feather be passed up the canal, the
same effect as that of an injection will be secured. The use of an in-
strument to puncture or break the egg is dangerous, and should not be
resorted to except as a last expedient. If this disorder is neglected, eggs
may accumulate in the duct and form a large tumor.
Eccs BRokEN IN THE Bopy.—Eggs may be broken in the body by
mechanical injuries or by straining in laying them. This is usually fatal.
Uneasiness and bagging-down behind are the distinctive symptoms. The
treatment is an injection of a teaspoonful of castor or sweet oil.
Sort Eccs.—Eggs without hard shells, or with such as are imper-
fectly formed, may be laid occasionally or repeatedly. The causes are
inflammation of the oviduct (see below), over-feeding, eating ergot, lack of
shell-making food, and worry, as by driving fowls about. As treat-
give lime-water (see page $75), and put within
reach of the fowl old mortar or powdered oyster shells.
INFLAMMATION OF THE OvipucT.—This results from taking cold,
unwholesome or too stimulating food, and excessive attentions of the male.
The symptions are general fever; feathers on the back and rump puffed
out; continued straining, as if to lay an egg; eggs imperfectly formed, per-
haps soft-shelled, or even simple yelks. In the way of treatment, keep
the fowl away from the cock a long time. Give a grain of calomel and
one-tenth of a grain of tartar emetic in meal, repeating the dose the next
day if relief is not afforded. Give mild, easily digested food.
PROTRUSION OF THE OvipucT.—HERNIA.—Straining to lay eggs or
general debility of the system may cause the end of the oviduct to protrude
from the vent. It may result in “ breaking-down behind.” Bathe the pro-
truding part in blood-warm water, oil it, and gently push it back to its
place with the finger, repeating the operation as often as necessary: Give
such unstimulating articles of diet as boiled rice and potatoes, avoiding those
which are known to tend to the production of eggs. Give aconite and
mercurius internally; or give once a day tartar emetic and calomel as rec-
ommended above for inflammation of the oviduct.
Breax-Down BeHtinp.—Beside protrusion of the oviduct and broken
eggs in the body, this disorder may be caused by an undue accumulation of
fat in the hind parts. A cure may eventually be effected by a low diet
when the last 1s the cause, but the fowl is unfit for breeding purposes.
Cannabis may be of service.
ment, remove the causes,
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408 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
Sweat Marapy.—lIf one is so careless as to allow his fowls to hatch
in damp, musty coops, he may find them moist, clammy and black under
the wings. The treatment consists in giving wholesome quarters, washing
the parts and powdering them with flour.
Sirtinc FEver.—When a fowl persists in sitting, do not resort to the
foolish and useless expedients of ducking in cold water, tying rags to the
tail, and the like. Let the fever “run its course,’ with or without eggs as
you prefer.
FEATHER-EatinG.—This vice is almost wholly confined to hens,
and is more common in the French breeds and Malays. Loomis’ Poultry
Bit is a sure cure. In connection with it, give fresh meat and bone crushed
into small pieces, and indeed this diet alone will cure many cases.
Ecc—-Eatinc.—If a fowl eats her eggs, she will probably teach the
vice to others in the flock. To effect a cure, keep the nest in a dark place.
Give fowls that are kept shut up plenty to do by forcing them to “scratch
for a living,” which may be done by putting all their grain under a pile of
straw, leaves, or other material. The same measures are used asa preventive.
Occasionally the hen eats the eggs to get the shells, in consequence of the
absence of lime; at such times, keep old plaster, pounded oyster shells and
lime-water (see page 875) within her reach, If the vice is persisted in,
benefit may arise from giving the hen a wide run, but the use of the hatchet
on the neck is a sure cure, and prevents the fowl from setting a bad example.
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PAR “V TEL
CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES.
409
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Me
M
Aen
NG
2.5. THE FAMILY CHOI.
410
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PART VIII.
CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES.
INTRODUCTION.
HE cares and conflicting passions of life are most.
agreeably relieved by the varied tints of the flowers.
-' which clothe field and garden, and by the birds.
which flit among them, to please with their ex-
quisite symmetry, delight with their rich and gor-
geous plumage, and charm with their entrancing
MF = song. These “beautiful and well-created things”
stimulate and purify the love of beauty which is such an essential element
of every normal mind and soul, and a genuine delight must ever be felt in
a study of their form, plumage, song and habits. In my native land socie- |
ties are formed expressly for such study, it being my esteemed privilege to.
have a membership in the one at our capital, and to. continue its correspond-
ent in the fair country of my adoption. In such favorable circumstances
many things have been learned which could not otherwise have come with-
in my knowledge. While the life of birds in their natural freedom has.
been a special theme of investigation, we have been led to give studious.
attention to their needs and care when in captivity, for, in spite of the ten-
derest care, influences which are inseparable from a life of confinement will
always induce some diseases not known among birds in their native fields.
and forests. As a result of such observation these disorders are treated di-
rectly from experience in Germany, usually without the necessity of books;
411
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412 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
but in America the little sufferers are too often left to linger and die in the
absence of that experience, and of reliable books devoted to, the subject. If
I shall have the good fortune to allay the pain of those which are in and
about the homes of my readers, it will abundantly repay me for my years
of study in their behalf. What is offered in the present work is based upon
the experience of many others as well as of myself, though a special study
of American birds has been made since my arrival in this country, supple-
mented by an extended practice in treating those which have been brought
to the hospital. It has been a source of much pleasure to thus give to the
public such aid as I confidently believe will be the means of avoiding many
of the sufferings to which our hlepless little pets have been subjected, and
my thanks are due to the editor for his valued assistance in reducing my
language to the wants of the English reader.
A few remarks are first in order upon the care and health of domesti-
cated birds as a class, for nothing is so important in the treatment of a dis-
ease as its prevention. Many ills can be avoided by a proper attention to
the cage and other apartments, the food, drink, and general management.
THE CAGE AND AVIARY.
Size.
bird in a condition as nearly like its natural surroundings as practicable. If
In this particular, as well as in others, it is best to keep a captive
one can afford a spacious aviary, with suitable apartments, perches and other
appointments, she may expect a more healthy condition and better results in
plumage and song. But the majority are compelled to keep their birds in
close confinement, or have none at all, and for such the first rule is that the
cage shall be commodious enough to at least insure ease of movement.
Cleanliness —The temperature of the body of birds is much higher
than that of man, and their respiration is proportionately more active.
Because of these two facts the exhalations from the skin and lungs are
thrown off with great rapidity and demand special pains to insure the
requisite cleanliness. Again, by the flitting and hopping of the captive
in small apartments the water and food are scattered about, and becoming
mingled with the droppings, which have a marked tendency to ferment,
they soon produce a foul condition which is highly prejudicial to health.
It is, therefore, imperative that the cage be cleaned at least once a week in
call seasons, and still oftener in warm weather. To be sure, the desired
neatness can be secured only by doing this daily. Indeed, the safe
tule, from a standpoint of health, is to attend to the cage or aviary at
once if it gives out an odor that indicates an unwholesome habitation. In
doing this the apartment should not be left in a drenched or very damp
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CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 413
condition, The perches should receive special attention, and even the sand
in the bottom of aviaries should be frequently removed and be replaced
with a fresh supply.
Uncleanliness is a prolific source of disorders in the feet, and these
members should receive close attention. They will often become encrusted
NeEstT OF THE ORIOLE.
with the droppings and other matters and thus be irritated and sore.
Hairs, fine feathers and tough straws become entwined about the toes, soon
cut deep into them, and perhaps cause their total loss. In cleaning feet
that have become thus involved, dip them into tepid water until the dirt is.
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414 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
softened and comes off, so that the skin may not be torn away and thus
induce painful and persistent ulcers.
Too much care can not be taken to keep out lice and mites, for they
are very injurious to the health of birds. They suck the blood, rob them
of sleep at nights, always rapidly reduce the strength, and sometimes cause
‘death. They gather in great numbers on the perches, in all cracks, and in
other parts of the cage or aviary. Studious cleanliness is the best pre-
ventive. Measures for eradication, when they have once appeared, are
named further on, under the special treatment for lice and mites.
Light and Ventilation.—Light and air are two of nature’s most
potent agencies in counteracting filth. Every bird should have a liberal
allowance of sunlight, though the power and directness of the rays are to
be determined by the climate which is natural to the captive. Among
those that need frequent sun-baths the canary deserves special mention,
though it should never be subjected to extreme heat or a dazzling glare.
For the development of the song, canaries are best kept in a very dark
‘cage, made expressly for the purpose, except during the period of moulting
and breeding; but this does not apply to the question of light for birds in
general. If possible, every cage and other inclosure should be occasionally
subjected to the full glare of the sun, the birds being meanwhile removed
if their natural condition indicates that such exposure would be harmful.
Both in airing and in ordinary ventilation it is imperatively essential that
‘one avoid all direct draughts of cold or damp air on the birds, for they
will take cold as well asa human being. The last remark is not suffi-
ciently heeded by the ordinary fancier, and she consequently has sickly or
dead birds. A good rule is to keep the temperature at from 65° to 40°
Fahrenheit, with an absence of draughts.
The Bath and Drink.—A bath should be afforded daily in some
suitable dish or font, but on cold days and in the winter the water should
be milk-warm, and the bath may be omitted. entirely in extreme cold
weather. The best drink, since it is that which is provided for all birds in
their native state, is cool, fresh water in summer, milk-warm in winter.
Special pains is requisite in supplying it, because it will become stagnant
by standing and is liable to be impregnated with all impurities that
come from the body or surrounding atmosphere. Even fresh rain-water
may be injuriously impure by standing in the open air twenty-four hours.
It is, therefore, necessary that a supply be given at least once aday. If
there is any doubt in respect to absolute purity, it is best to boil the water
and give it after it has become cool.
food.—The food, drink and air furnish the materials by which the
repair and growth of the system are effected, and upon their selection must
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CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES, 415
depend the health of the body. Two peculiarities in the anatomy and
physiology of birds need special mention here, as bearing directly upon the
topic now before us. First, the lungs are very small, but the bones are pro-
vided with various air-cells which may be filled or emptied at will to regu-
late the buoyancy needed for flying. If the food is of such a natine as to
interfere with this function, it is evident that the general health will be
disturbed and the facility of flight be impaired. Second, the digestive or-
gans exhibit differences according to the various kinds of food which the
Creator designed for them. In song-birds, for example, there are three
successive cartilaginous stomachs, covered with strong muscles.. Indeed,
ary. CANARIES 4ND NEST.
organs. of this kind are given to all birds which live on grains, seeds and
other hard food, and the requisite grinding is effected by small stones taken
into the gizzard. This also emphasizes the necessity of giving to every
bird the kind of food which it would get in a state of nature.
[t is manifest that the only rational principle for adoption in feeding is
to accord to a bird a diet as nearly identical as possible with what nature
has especially provided for it. Since this natural method cannot le used
for birds in confinement in all its details, onc must meet the lack of nature’s
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416 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
food, as far as he can, by close observation of the effects of different aru-
cles that are at hand. To this dificult question the members of our bird
societies patiently address themselves. It is evident that, to give any trust-
worthy directions upon feeding, one must divide his subject according to
the species. Nothing is the cause of more sickness and death among birds
than giving them any and every article of food simply because they seem to
relish it, or at least take it readily.
Gravel, Cuttle-Bone and Salt.—Every cage should be supplied with
small gravel, and the best kind is that which may be scraped up along the
lakes and rivers. Fine sand is not a good substitute. Without such a pro-
vision the digestion is disturbed or entirely interrupted. Again, cuttle-bone
and crystal salt should be kept within reach, since they afford needed ma-
terial for the making of blood and bone. A bird may live even years with-
out them, but it should have the opportunity of getting them as the system
demands. This remark is not intended to lead to a disregard of the caution
which fanciers emphasize about putting salt into the food of certain species.
Macena Biscuits a substitute for the egg-foods which are so ex-
tensively used, the writer has an article of his own discovery which he
calls the Macena Biscuit, and which, for canaries, mocking-birds, thrushes,
parrots and other species, he has found to be much superior. It is men-
tioned here as an additional food, and not as a necessary part of the follow-
ing points on feeding and treating. It insures rhythm and flexibility of
the voice, is the most digestible for both the old and young, and is thus
suited to all cases of debility in particular. It is an admirable remedy and
preventive for inflammation of the bowels, and also saves much time and
trouble in the breeding season. The birds always havea keen relish for it,
showing a marked preference to it over egg-food, and feed it to the young
with greater readiness. It is good for old birds in all seasons, is peculiarly
suitable at breeding times, and the writer has found nothing equal to it for
the young of all kinds, canaries in particular, up to the age of four or five
months, as well as in moulting. It will remain in a fit state for food eight
to ten days in summer and ten to twelve days in winter. When it does be-
come old, it is readily prepared for use by dipping it in water for three min-
utes and then squeezing it out. None of the foods for mocking-birds
which are sold in the market are made after the formula of this biscuit, and
none keep the song and health in as good condition or favor so long life.
SPECIAL FOODS FOR DIFFERENT SPECIES.
Canaries—The canary should not be fed on hemp seed under any
circumstances. Even when these seeds are mixed with the canary, as they
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CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 41?
often are ii the market, they are to be avoided, since they will shorten the
bird’s life. Up to the age of four months, rape and canary seed are the
best, with three-fourths of a teaspoonful a day, to each bird, of egg-food, or;
still better, Macena Biscuit. After that age they should have only rape
and canary seed, with a small quantity of green food every day, if it can
be secured. The German rape seed is the best, and if it can be procured,
will be all that is needed in the way of-seed. Canaries are vety often in-
jured or killed by sugar and other delicacies.
The Mocking-Bird and Thrush Family.—All kinds of soft-food
eaters must be treated with more care than seed-eaters. In this class
mocking-birds are the most admired and valued. They need a liberal sup-
ey, Ge ee
LW ise
Lory
21S. Mock:nGc-Brurp.
ply of meal-worms, ant’s eggs, earth-worms, caterpillars (without hairs),
and sometimes green food, such as berries and fruits. Grated carrots and
potatoes, meat, and boiled becf-heart are suitable for summer. For use in
winter, and for those people who can not get the articles just named, I will
give a recipe upon which a superior mocking-bird food can be prepared,
which is also excellent for all soft-food, meat and insect eaters:—Chop
finely four pounds of beef and dry it well in a stove; grate one and one-
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418 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
half pounds of carrots, squeeze them out thoroughly, and dry them; grate
twelve to fourteen ounces of white bread; grind twelve to fourteen pounds
of hemp seed; add the yolks of twelve to fifteen hard-boiled eggs. Mix
all of them thoroughly, adding sweet oil or lard until the mixture is soft,
but do not put ina greater supply of otl or lard, lest fat be engendered too
rapidly. If they can be afforded, dried ant’s eggs, in any quantity up toa
fourth part of the whole, will make the mixture better. If farina be added
to this mixture, in the proportion of one-fourth of the whole, good ‘results
will follow, though it is not a necessary ingredient. The preparation of
this food will make some trouble, but it will well reward the pains in the
charms which it adds to the mocking-bird alone, to say nothing of other
‘species for which it is suitable. When once ready for use it can be fed
with much less labor than fresh food, is not conducive to disease, as other
kinds are, and will remain good fcr many months. A less amount than
the above can be made, of course, but the same proportion of ingredients
should be preserved.
Red Bird, Cardinal and their Kind.— Make a mixture of rice (in the
husk), hemp seed, sunflower seed, and wheat in the grain. Also, give corn,
some fruit, meal-worms, and mocking-bird food made as above directed.
219. GOLDFINCH AND NEST.
Nightingale, Robin, Ete.—For nightingales, robins, some African
finches and titmice, make a mixture as follows:—Bakea loaf of white bread
very hard and grind or pound it fine; add the same quantity of grated
carrots; a like amount of hard-boiled beef heart, ground, chopped, or, better
still, grated; a smaller allowance of hemp seed. Thoroughly mix them,
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CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 419
meanwhile adding water until the whole is loose and has a pleasant odor.
It is very desirable to mix ant’s eggs in this when feeding it.
Lark, Starling, Ete.—To larks, starlings, and the yellow-hammer
species, give wheat, oats, canary seed, green food, some earth-worms, meal-
worms and ant’s eggs. Finely-chopped cabbage, mixed with poppy seed, is
especially needed by all of the lark species; and the diet given just above for
nightingales and robins is, generally speaking, also good.
The Bullfinch and Linnet Families,—For bullfinches, linnets, chaf-
finches, goldfinches, siskins, and all of the finch species, make a mixture of
three parts of German rape seed, and one each of hemp seed, poppy seed
and German millet. Hemp and poppy seed should be given with care, for
they produce fat too readily when supplied in excess. Beside the above,
give green food and fruits.
Fancy and African Finches.—The chief food of these is white (not
yellow) millet and canary seed; other articles being rape, flax and poppy
seed, and a little green food.
Fancy Chickens.—For these, make a mixed food of fruit, crumbs of
bread, rice (boiled dry), yolks and shells of eggs, meats and other articles
from the table, and ant’s eggs. Now and then give strawberries, black-
berries, huckleberries, grapes and plums.
Parrots.—Large purrots with strong beaks should have corn, oats,
hemp seed, sunflower seed, millet, boiled rice, milk, bread, ant’s eggs, pota-
toes, nuts, grapes, fruits, and small seeds in general. Salt in bits or crystals
should be constantly within reach. Bitter almonds and parsley are poison-
ous for these birds. It may be said, apart from the question of food, that
care should be taken to particularly avoid draughts of air and direct rays of
the sun. The bird should have a daily bath, or the whole body be sprinkled
with water. A piece of wood for the parrot to bite is requisite to the proper
growth of the beak, and should always be kept in the cage.
DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.
From foregoing observations it will be inferred that the most common
causes of sickness in cage birds are unnatural, improper and excessive food
and drink, exposure to draughts and extremes of temperature, filth, and
vermin. It follows that an avoidance of such influences will prevent the
occurrence of many ills. In general, when a bird shows any evidence of
sickness, the appropriate diet, as detailed above, should be rigidly observed.
In the reader’s endeavor to discover what disease is affecting a bird, too
much care can not be used to avoid an error which is entirely too common,
namely, the forming of a conclusion upon an insufficient study of the patient’s
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420 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
symptoms. The inexperienced fancier is prone to suspect the existence of
a disease, and then quickly decide that it is present in a given case, because
he finds one or two symptoms which are known to attend it, though a fur-
ther investigation might detect others which would show that another and.
perhaps quite different complaint was at hand.
HOARSENESS.—COLD.—CATARRH.
« ASTHMA.”
floarseness, or cold in the head, quite frequently manifests itself in
song birds, and only less so in talking birds. It arises from draughts,
too cold drink and baths, bad seed, and excessive singing or talking. When
the first two are the cause, keep the bird in a warm, very moist atmosphere,
both day and night, deprive it of the bath, give warmer water for the drink,
and feed lettuce seed. If bad or spoiled seed be the source of the trouble,
change to those which are good. If too much singing or talking is the
cause, put the bird in a dark room to shut out all light, and thus stop the use
of the voice entirely for some time; but the bird must be kept warm.
Catarrh is often caused by draughts of air and too cold baths. The
head becomes hot, the nostrils clogged, and the breathing obstructed. If a
soft feather be dipped into warm salt-water and gently passed up the nostril,
the bird being kept warm for some time, it will be a sufficient treatment.
Parrots and other birds that will bite should be covered with some fabric be-
fore treatment, to protect the operator and prevent resistance from the claws.
Asthma is a term that is often improperly applied to cases cf cold and
catarrh. Birds do not have anything that can in any true sense be called
asthma. The chest is sometimes by nature too narrow, and thus gives rise
to a condition of the voice which some call asthma, but that is incurable.
CONSUMPTION OF THE THROAT AND CHEST.
T,he special symptoms of consumption of the ¢hroat are a frequent
cough, roughness of the voice, often a failure to take food, either from loss
of appetite or from pain in swallowing, attacks of fever followed by shiver-
ing being more or less regular. As treatment, keep the bird in a very
warm atmosphere, give a little piece of pork and a tea of speedwell (weak
for small singing birds; strong for parrots, the thrush family, and large
birds in general). This will usually effect a cure in four or five days.
If the disease is allowed to run four or five months it will be incurable;
hence the importance of early attention and prompt treatment.
The digtinctive feature of consumption of the chest or lungs is a
tubercular deposit in the chest, liver and bowels. The first symptoms are
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CAGE BIRDS AND THEIR DISEASES. 421
a “thinning ” of the voice and occasional sneezing. When the sneezing
comes on in the morning and continues during the day, the lungs have
become involved, and eventually a puffed appearance will be manifest in
the chest, as represented in the accompanying cut. The treatment consists
220, CANARY WITH CONSUMPTION OF THE CHEST.
in keeping the atmosphere very moist, and at a temperature of from 66°
to 72° Fahrenheit (for which purpose a stove with fire can be placed in the
room with a vessel of water on it). When the coughing or sneezing be-
comes continuous, the disease has progressed too far for treatment. A con-
sumptive bird should never be used for breeding purposes.
WORMS IN THE WINDPIPE.
Many birds are killed by worms in the windpipe when their owners
are at a complete loss asto the cause. A very destructive parasite finds its
way to the throat, locates under the glottis and lives on the blood that it
extracts. The wound which it makes begins to swell, and the bird is thus
deprived of breath. Parrots, fancy chickens and singing birds are especially
liable to such attacks. At first the bird shows signs of general impairment
of health; a cough sets in and grows worse; the bird throws its head
from side to side as if trying to expel something from the throat; finally
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422 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR.
death ensues from suffocation if relief is not given. pelldcca
sx >Seligeex
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INDEX.
When more than one Part of the book is referred to under a given topic, the
distinctions are made by the following equivalents:
H, Horse; 8, Sheep; Hg, Hog;
D, Dog; C, Cat; P, Poultry; B, Birds; ff, “and following pages.”
Abomasum...... Be) ech aig eee Sane O, 237
Abortion ..............-. H, 142, 269, 303
Abscess....H, 203; O, 289; D, 348; P, 899
African finches, food for..... ....... 419
After DiTthl seis cisjaracioawre dees piewres H, 143
Air. in, healtlis. ..sccce.0s comawen es H, 215
Albuminuria .... 22... ee ee eee H, 137
Alternation of remedies............. 431
American cattle plague
American race horse..........6.-+--
American rinderpest ...
AWASAT CAS. Bran for horses. ........eeeeeeee eee 223
Beans for horses..... ade piacencetstia arte ae Brae da cies caer remeawean 8, 304
B6AS: cassis s neuen cd's Si dletee sre ¢ ean H, 228 | Break-down behind......... ..... P, 407
Beef, diseased........:.eeseeeeeeees 289 | Breaking down............-..... H, 163
Belly Blacks osicacavvs ve eqnae ys B, 423 | Breathing..... H, 46, 100; thick, 116;
Birds, care of, 409-419 ; diseases of, 419-426 | broken, 115. .
Bishoping the teeth. ........0..6- H, 60 | Breathing aparatus............... P, 379
Bites: c24 casas eee srgaews H, 182; 0, 264 | Breeds............-000000- H, 16; D, 323
Black mouth...........00222 cease s, 296 | Bright’s disease............---5-- H, 137
Black quarter.......-. O, 276, 278; 8, 806 | Broken hoof............. se... H, 171
Blak: TOb ccc waa ewes es saade oe P, 401 | Broken wind ..............+4-05- H, 115
Black tongue..... ...-++++++- O, 242, 276 | Bronchitis. ..H, 104; O, 255-256-257,
Black water..........+0+----- O, 266, 281 S, 299; D, 340; G, 363; P, 382, 389.
Bladder, inflammation... .H, falling, Bruises wc sccsccasuicdon 207; oO, 289 ; P, 315
137; inflammation, 135; spasm, Brushing: <2 is 4 saacieleose voce ae H, 166
35-136. O, inflammation, 265; Buck tooth Abgelia wena ee ees Bete H, 89
spasm, 266-267; stone in, 267. Hg, Buff Cochins Aids emenee eee ee Lt aS 393
inversion, 318; stone in, 318. D, Bullfinch, food for.................. 419
inflammation, "345. Bumble-foot..............-0 2000s: P, 399
429
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430 INDEX.
Burns) ssi iroins Raat alan antirna ties D, 848 | Convulsions........ H, 42; O, 235; C, 360
Byerly-Turk line............ ..... 13 | Coop for poultry........ 6... ec eee 370
Cage for birds .........s esse ee eeeee 412 | Corn for horses........ 0.6... eee oo8
Cage birds...... ee cece eee eee e eee 409=426' | “COMnS) «..eccedona taxed stances anus H, 173
Cal VAs cicapiseinre aaaeavere ane asece sr ayanrere 268, 277 | Coryza..... cece eee eee renee H, 108, 254
Canary, food for ..........0...e ee eee 416 | Costiveness, see Constipation.
Canker of the feet................ H, 173 | Cough, varieties...H, 100; 8, 299; D,
Canker of the mouth. .D, 334; P, 382, 390 342; P, 388.
Cannon bone. ....... 6. eee eee eee H, 178 | Cow hocked.............-+0-0000- H, 157
Capped elbow ........ eee eee eens H, 161 | Cow pox........ 0. ese eee ee ere eee 271
Capped Hock ssiicccees seeastaseas H, 159 | Crack in the hoof.... ....... .... H, 174
Capped knee..... .......e eee oe H, 160 | Crack in the skin............. ... O, 260
Cardinal, food for................246 413 | Cramp................5...H, 195; F, 897
Caries, H, of the face, 119; of the jaw, 88 | Crib biting ..................-00. H, 88
Oat HONSES ccc ananasncuie duane, 17 | Crop Gai peg aaa ccaduwmoees 392
Castration. ..H, 145; O, 276; Hg, 318; Croup esi osacua sn a mamieuuetes P, 382
origin and history, 351; traits. Crusta lactaea............-0 00 eee O, 262
852; varieties, 854; health, food Cud....O, 238; loss of, 248; 8, loss of, 306
and drink, 355; care of fur, 357; Curbcesis crsveweek vee en anes H, 157, 181
housing, 357; diseases, 358 ff; Cuts. .H, 208; O, 289; 8, 306; D "348
medicines, 359; with kittens, 365. 405.
Cataract .......... A, 149; O, 287; D, 348 | Crysts... .........-. O, in the skin, ne
Catarrh ...H, 108; O, 254; 8, 299; D, Dar lOy Dis ccc s:cicssinteceeks ayettcevemrnners
334; C, 861; P, 883; B, 420. Deafness in .............. H, 153; D, 347
Cattle plaguesices neice 04 varipietndareys 279-281. | Debility: cn. sscseugs ene «a aes P, 397
Cerates, see Formulas .......0 ec eeeee 4°83 | Deformities............... P, 404; 3, 425
Cerebro-spinal fever............... H,02)|) Deliriuminiicesis ses ceesaeennte CG 360
Chaffinch, food for.................. 400 | Dexter csc osenasxveiae caresanu as 6
Chapped heel..............00085- H, 126 | Diabetes ............ .... H, 188; O, 267
Chaps iiinccswrsvave twee scass O, 260 | Diaphragm.......... H, spasm of, 94, 117
Chicken powders...............0005 877 | Diarrheea...H, 69; O, 248-249; S, 296;
Chicken pox. ....... cee eee eee ee P, 899 C, 362 +P, 394; B, 423,
Chickens, care and treatment........ 369 Digestion. esofae. anRea, ote H, 43, 60; O, 237
Qhills; $28: AGUe ls... cies issessoncevcianerione P, 403 | Diphtheria................ C, 361; P, 391
CHIP DB: sicarercsestnating wea vine ieienane P, 890 ! Diseased cattle................0-05. 289
Choking..........- H, 85; O, 288; D. 338 | Diseases, signs of, H, O, 8, Hg, and
Chlorea, Hg, simple, 31; false, 312 > P, 3880 D, 41, 181, 873, 330.
Circulations cscavexevcssuscnas sss ‘y, 98 | Dislocations....... H, 218; O, 289; 8, 806
Clans: ss coesewienies s B, deformed, 425 | Distemper.....H, 192; O, 281; D, 232, 363
Cleveland Bays .siiis.. scss.cccceccwesins 17 | Dizziness................. O, 236; B, 422
CH PPIN ec se ssergeiane ae @ va goarsusceses H, 227 | Dog...breeds, 323; uses, 323; traits,
COCHIN. 2 eae de eerie eee H, 226 321; origin, 321; diseases, 3829;
Clover for horses............eee cece 210 care, 329.
Clover sickness ...............005 O, 289 | Doses, frequency, 428; size, 428; alter-
Clydsdale horses .............-20055 17 nation, 431; of particular reme-
Coat for horses........00.25 ceceeeee 41 dies 482, ff; for domestic animals, 429
Cock, sketch Of. .......0. cece cece eee 368 || Douglas mixture..............0-05 P, re
Comin, DONE. 6666 wee iei cd ce woven. 168 | Draught horses..............-0.0--
Cold. ..H, 103; O, 254; 8, 299; D, 340;
P, 888; B, 420.
Colic. ..H, 65, 85; O, 245-247 5 S, 297,
Hg, 317; D; 336. -
Collar:gall seine 65:00 saciarnaanetans Hi, 131
Colttrottin Gis acciie one cee tesc ew wets 37
Comb, white......... see e enone P, 401
Coneretions. si02 5006s ssrscevsaies H, 77
Condy Si PMG epiaiecisse se theayisetlsiate a 428
Constipation. ..H, 80; O, 249; 5, 306;
D, 336; O, 356; P. 394; B, 423.
Consumption, H, 113; O, 256; 8, 299;
C, 363; P, 389; B, 420.
Dropsy, H, 199; O, 262, 283; 5,306; D, 3a
Druggists’ weights and measures... 430
Dry murrain.... ............ O, 240, 281
DUCKS: weccuiinye encase naensie ee enre 309
Dumb braxyecncsecvevs seaceeevs 8, 3804
Duodenum.... ......... ..e 2.08. O, 238
Dust balls. ....,.... 0 cease eee eee O, 253.
Dutch horses,..... ....-.20:e eee eee 7
Dysentery....H, 70; O, 248; 8S, 296;
Hg, 318; D, 836; C, 362; Y, 394, 423
Dysyepsia.............206. H, 81; Pp: B91
Har..... H, 147, 153; D, disorders of,
346; C, 357: P, mottled, 401.
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INDEX, 431
Eczema of the ear........ D, 343; C, 364 | Foot and mouth disease... .241, 283;
Egg-bound................. cea ee P, 406 Hg, 310-811; P, 373.
Egg-eating ..... 0.0.0.0. cee sees P, 408 | Foot-founder ......... H, 169-171; O, 285
Egg-food for birds................6. 416 | Foot-rot........... ....... O, 285; 5, 802. .
Eight-tailed bandage ............... TOG |) Formulas: occ sc occ aenatercs saeco 427
Elbow-capped................ 005 FE AGT: I WOU G25 cess Gila ov bed. wcalnger een ao H, 141
Elephantiasis ieaegeueded cetaceans P, 398 | Founder in the feet.......... H, 169-171
Emetics in poisoning...... H, 69; roy 239 | Four-year-old trotting............... 39:
Endocarditis ............0-.. 2. e005 H, 95 | Fractures. .H, 204; O, 289; 8, 306; D,
Epilepsy..H, 50; S, 294; Hg, 316 D, 214, 318, 346 ; is) 366; P, "4055; B, 428.
834; B, 42 2. French Commission............. "921-229.
BpiZzO0tiCeie.s. vss esaess oe hee ey H, a Ben Z 9 es ys. gaat waihed Rid wenp-eeune lig, 316-
Eruptions ..........-. ... H, 1238; 0.2 Frog of foot..... 00 wee. eee .H, 163
Erysipelas....... H, 1380; O, 264; Hg, 318 Frost bite................. P, 403; B, 425
Exercise, excessive....... H, 226 ; D, 331 | Fungous growths. ............... 0, 261
Eye..H, ‘inflammation, 147- 148; poly- BOP iui. ou Gana aie Mewenes C, care of. 357
pus ‘and warts on, 152-153; 0, in- Cr | rr H, of saddles, etc., 131
flammation, 287; D, disorders of, GADOS vais stxiegtinous oa Bas naa eines P, 8x5:
346; C, inflamed, 361; P, 391; Gape worms............... P, 395; B, 421
B, 424, GOOSOls 65s emesiomsurs M4 oe 4g yaadeeuns 869°
Eyelids, inflamed..... H, 152-153; O, 287 | Generative organs..... H, 45, 133; O, 265.
Paces vss a ik: a epee s etic P, mottled, 401 | Giddiness .............. _ 0, 236; 8 cae
False cholera.........-.....-200- Hes BED» | Gans) 2 5 ..cuinee deco kb gaese-a ean aca suoates
False quarter............. 0.0 LI, 175 | Gleet,inasal.................. 005 H iii
RAR CY? avs tae seed arconypine ede bas badness 195 | Gloss Anthras................ O, 242, 276:
Patiess es.hecncae pasdl\5 se v5 moe. Bi 424. | Goat; they. sence kes aageeat is ae
Feather eating .................0. P, 408 | Godolphin line
Feet, care of...H, nail in, 178; found- Goitre
er, 169; fever, 169; ulcerated, see Goldsmith Maid
Quittor, Thrush, ete.; care of, 228; Gonorrhea
B, sore, 424. Grain sickness.
Fetlock............ 5. H, sprain of, 163 | Grass as food
Fever...H, brain, 46; cerebro-spinal, — Grass staggers............. 00000 ee ai 510
52; nervous, 53; scarlet, 184; sim- Gray Games................0.008. P, 375
ple, 180; splenic, 200; typhoid, Grease .............. H, 122, 180, 185, 197
181; O, acclimating, 281; brain, Gripes, see Colt, Diarrhea, Dysen-
283; gastric, 281; inflammatory, tery and Enteritis.
273; milk, 277; nervous, 275; per- Grooming .c46s diseased eae sce ea ase 225.
iodic, 281; simple, 273; Spanish, Grunter-2sacsesseds. . Phe hypodermic method. The latter method he most enthusiastic-
a'ly supports, and gives special instructions as to the use of the hypo-
desmic syringe. Then follows a history of the cases treated by Dr.
Cooke since 181, and the results of treatment, and among them were
caves of tuberculosis, cancer, septicaemia, eczema, malarial fever, diphthe-
ris, hay fever, etc, The book is well printed in good, clear type, with
w.le margns.
THE BABY. Ilow Tro Kerp Ir WeLL. By
J.B. DunuHAM, M. D. Cloth. 50 cents. Postage,
d cents.
How to keep the baby well is a branch of knowledge rather more
neglected than how to treat the baby when ill; but itisa most important
branch of knowledge, and is here treated of with a common-sense re-
freshing to encounter. The old nurse of other days would doubtless
regard many of its instructions with wide-eyed horror, such as the for-
bidding of the traditional bath within a half-hour of birth, and the sub-
stitution of oilin its stead; the doing away with the abdominal band, and
the injunctions against too frequent nursing; but the young mother of to-
day is somewhat emancipated from the thralldoin of nurses and not dis-
inclined to profit by the wisc teachings here so pleasantly offered.— .Vew
England Med. Gureite
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GROSS & DELBRIDGES MED.CAL WORKS. 15
“BLESS ‘THEE, BULLY DOCTOR!” By M.
E. Dicus, M. D. Illustrated by 100 finely executed
wood cuts. Second edition. 50 cents. Postage,
3 cents.
This is certainly the most extraordinary book of the year. The
author has gathered and put into book form the cream of the medica]
wit of the world, and the whole thing is profusely illustrated.
THE ABDOMINAL BRAIN. By Lziza G.
BEDELL, M. D. 45 pages. Price, 20 cents. Post-
age, 2 cents.
he author believes that the sympathetic nervous system is the scat
of organic and emotional life, as the cerebro-spinal nervous system is
the seat of animal life, including thought, reason, judgment, perception,
and will. Wrd, according to Dr. Bedell, fs the joint production of the
two nervous systems, the cerebro-spina! and the sympathetic. To the
latter she gives the name first given’ by Bichat—the abdominal brain,
The cerebro-spinal system is stronger in men, and the sympathctic is
stronger in women; and according to Dr. Bedell’s theory, in the repro-
duction of our kind the mother contributes the organic part of our con-
stitution, and the father the cerebro-spinal. The author has evidently
given much thought to this subject, and she works out her case with
great ingenuity and cogency.
THE PHYSICIAN’S CONDENSED AC-
COUNT BOOK. An Epitomized System of Book-
keeping, avoiding the necessity of separate Journal,
Day Book and Ledger, combining system, accuracy
and easy reference with a minimum of labor. 272
pages. Price, $3.50, net. Sent postpaid. Send for
sample page.
THE PHYSICIAN’S DAY BOOK AND
LEDGER. Arranged by T. D. WILLIAMs, M. D.,
Author of “American Homceopathic Dispensatory.”
Price, $2.00, net. Sent postpaid. Sample pages
sent on application.
LABEL BOOK, ror rHEeE USE: OF PHYSICIANS
AND PHARMACISTS. Containing more than thirty-
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