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COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT:
VETERINARY MEDICINE SERIES
No. 7
Edited by; D. M: CAMPBELL, D: V.S:
SPECIAL
CALILE THERAPY
BY
MART Rs°STEFFEN, M.D. C., V. S.
Author of “SPECIAL VETERINARY THERAPY”: Editor
“Therapeutic Digest Department,”’ merican
Journal of Veterinary Medicine
Chicago
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE
eas:
CopyriGHtr, 1915,
BY
ID. M. CAMPLELL
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SEP i7 i915
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PREERACE
Special Cattle Therapy was written to fill the de-
mand for a concise, practical treatise on the treatment
of the commoner diseases of cattle.
As in ‘‘Special Veterinary Therapy’’ no particular
system of medicine is advocated, practical procedures
only being given attention; especially, such treatments
and methods of handling as the author’s experience
has suggested as being successful.
While every effort has been made to harmonize all
procedures with the teachings of veterinary science as
far as is consistent, scientific teachings have been sac-
rificed where the ultimate result has demanded methods
of treatment bordering on the empirical. Where such
sacrifice has been made, however, an attempt is made
in every instance to explain the action and effect of
empirical methods on a scientific basis.
MART R. STEFFEN.
Brillion, Wis.
August, 1915.
The EXCELLENCE OF EVERY) ART
MUST CORSIST IW THE COMPLETE
ACCOMPLISHMEWT OF 175 PURPOSE
INTRODUCTION
The Action of Drugs
Of all the domestic animals cattle, more particularly
dairy cattle, respond most satisfactorily to the action
of drugs. A system of specific medication is possible
in cattle if it is possible in any animal. Granted that
the drug has been intelligently selected for the disease,
and that it has been judiciously administered, a defi-
nite action is always forthcoming. This is true whether
the drug be given orally or hypodermieally, but espe-
cially so when given orally.
The Administration of Drugs
For all practical purposes the administration of
drugs can be limited to oral and hypodermic adminis-
tration.
Oral administration in the cow is a very simple pro-
cedure, especially so when the cow is not confined in a
stanchion. The thumb and forefinger of the left hand
grasp the nasal septum firmly from above and just
inside the nostrils. The head is then raised straight
up, under the veterinarian’s left arm, and the medi-
cine emptied into the mouth. Most cows will swallow
liquids in this manner just as fast as they are poured
in. Usually the veterinarian can do this single-handed ;
now and then a head-strong cow will require that a
helper give the veterinarian some assistance in keep-
ing the animal’s head raised. There is an impression
among farmers that the tongue must be held out of
5
6 SPECIAL CATTLE THERAPY
one corner of the cow’s mouth when the animal is
being drenched. This is erroneous. The tongue should
not be touched by the person giving the-drench. The
free use of the tongue is necessary to properly per-
’ form the act of deglutition. The mouth of the bottle
used for drenching should rest against the roof of the
cow’s mouth, just back of the dental pad, and should
then follow the movements of the tongue, up and down.
In other words, each time the cow swallows the mouth
opens wider and the tongue is drawn back towards
the pharynx; the bottle should follow in, keeping it
against the roof of the mouth and until the shoulder
of the bottle strikes the first molar. When the act of
deglutition is completed the tongue comes forward
again and the mouth closes; the bottle is then allowed
to come forward again towards the region just back
of the dental pad. This is repeated at each deglutitory
act until the medicine has been entirely poured in.
When eattle are drenched in this manner the danger
of inhalation pneumonia from portions of the medica-
ment entering the larynx are nil.
To jam the bottle into the corner of the cow’s mouth
when drenching and hold it there until it is empty is
not the correct method and usually induces a fit of
coughing immediately after the drench.
The hypodermatic administration of drugs does not
differ materially in cows from the same procedure in
horses. It is only necessary to use a heavier needle
and to select a place in the skin where it can be in-
serted easily. The top of the shoulder presents a good
area for the entrance of the hypodermic needle in
cows. The skin is loose enough here so that a fold
can be picked up, and it is not so tough here as in
other parts. Another point in selecting this region
lies in the fact that the veterinarian can get into such
INTRODUCTION il
a position here that he can avoid being kicked by the
cow when the néedle is thrust in.
The needle should be thrust from above downwards,
and a slip needle should be used if possible. ii:
needle with a screw thread is used it is frequently
broken if it is thrust in while attached to the syringe.
If it is not attached to the syringe, too much time 1s
lost in attaching the syringe after the needle is im situ.
When the cow is recumbent the injection can be
eiven in the side of the neck, or in the region of the
flank.
Abscess formations following on hypodermatic injec-
tions in cattle are almost never seen, even when no
antiseptic precautions are taken,
Things that Make for Success in Cattle Practice
In beginning the discussion of diseases of cattle it
might be in place to eall the reader’s attention to the
fact that it would be a difficult matter to cite author-
itative and, at the same time, practical writings on a
system of therapeutics for cattle. Bovine therapy 1S
a specialty of veterinary medicine which offers a con-
siderable field for the development of improved and
enlightened methods of treatment. The same is true
of the diagnosis of diseases of cattle.
Another point worthy of consideration in eattle prac-
tice is the veterinarian’s personality, or his demeanor
towards the patient. This can almost be summed up
in two words: ‘‘Be gentle.’? Weare speaking, of
course, of dairy cattle. No consideration is given to
range cattle in this treatise.
The diseases with which we shall concern ourselves
in the following chapters include the pathologie con-
ditions and accidents in cattle with which the prac-
8 SPECIAL CATTLE THERAPY
titioner most frequently meets, and especially those
conditions upon the proper and efficient handling of
which depend the veterinarian’s popularity and his
financial success in a country practice.
RANULA
There does not ‘seem to be much conformity of
opinion among veterinarians as to just what a ranula
is. For the present purpose we shall call a ranula a
cyst which makes its appearance under the tongue,
extending from the frenum lngue forward, towards
the incisors. It is quite generally presumed, that this
condition is the result of foreign particles entering
into the substance of the submaxillary gland through
Wharton’s duct.
The symptoms in this condition usually begin with
the appearance of fullness or swelling which ean be
seen best by viewing the cow’s head from the side.
It begins two or three inches behind the chin in the
inter-maxillary space, is pouch-like and extends back-
ward towards the larynx. This swelling is movable
and ean be pushed upwards between the rami of the
lower jaw, free from the skin. (The swelling of acti-
nomyeosis affecting this region is adherent. )
After a period of time the cow does not eat nor-
mally and saliva constantly drips from the mouth.
Usually it is at about this time that the veterinarian
is called. When, after having noted the external
swelling, he examines the interior of the mouth he
discovers a swelling below the free portion of the
tongue. This swelling usually is circumscribed, stand-
ing out from the parts to the height of an inch or
two and, in the early stages, is quite firm. The fact
RANULA 9
that the swelling is circumscribed sharply, differen-
tiates ranula from all other abnormalities in this part
of the anatomy, and it can not be mistaken for any
other disease.
The treatment is chiefly surgical and consists of
lancing the swelling in the mouth at the point proximal
to the incisors. A straight abscess knife is merely
thrust into the front of the swelling and withdrawn;
no extensive incision need be made. If the disease is
of recent occurrence the discharge which is emitted
following the lanee is quite thick and of a dark gray
color; in fact, more of the appearance and consistency
of necrotic tissue shreds than of pus. If the disease
has existed for a considerable length of time the swell-
ing, which is then not so firm, contains a rather thin,
syrupy fluid. Nothing further is done to the lesion im
the mouth, but the external swelling is to be treated
with a mild counter-irritant or an absorbent.
Relief is immediate when the cyst has been laneed
and the cow begins to eat normally. The essential
feature in the handling of this condition lies in lancing
the swelling in the mouth. The external swelling
should never be incised. Further, no time should be
wasted in waiting for the internal swelling to ‘‘point’’;
it should be laneed even if it is apparently ‘“‘not ready’”’
to be lanced. Whenever ranula has reached the stage
in which it produces trouble in eating it is ready for
opening, no matter how firm it may feel. The knife
should penetrate to the center with one thrust; upon
its withdrawal the contents of the cyst makes its exit.
10 SPECIAL CATTLE THERAPY
DENTAL IRREGULARITIES AND OTHER SPO-
RADIC DISEASED CONDITIONS IN
THE MOUTH
Dental Irregularities
Irregularities of the teeth do not come to the atten-
tion of the veterinarian frequently in a cattle practice.
When such irregularities do occur they are usually so
evident by their symptoms that the diagnosis is not
difficult.
Probably the most common dental irregularity that
occurs in the cow is the split and deflected molar; such
molars are, in fact more common than is generally sup-
posed. Systematic examination of the mouth and the
dental arches will disclose this abnormality quite fre-
quently.
It is, however, astonishing to what length a split
and deflected molar can grow in cattle without inter-
fering to any great degree with mastication or the well-
being of the animal. We have seen only a very few
cases of ulceration of teeth accompanied by bony en-
largements and subsequent abscess formation on the
maxilla.
Now and then a ease is presented in which deciduous
molars are capping the permanent teeth, producing a
certain degree of difficulty in mastication. This con-
dition is very rare also.
The treatment of dental abnormalities in the cow
does not differ materially from the treatment of simi-
lar conditions in equine subjects. Split and elongated
molars are either extracted or cut down with the molar
cutter. Uleerated fangs are repulsed if they can not
be grasped with the extracting forceps.
DENTAL IRREGULARITIES _ 11
No manipulations of any extent should ever be at-
tempted in the mouth of the cow without the use of a
strong mouth speculum. Those not acquainted with
the contractile power of the masseters of the cow
should not chance experience to make this acquaint-
ance. The power of the masseters in the cow is tre-
mendous; aided by the scissor-like movements, of
which the mandible is capable in this animal, it makes
manipulations in the cavity without the use of a good
mouth speculum far from a safe procedure. A per-
fectly trustworthy speculum can be made from an or-
dinary plow clevis, when no other speculum is at
hand. We have used a plow clevis for this purpose
a number of times and with satisfaction. Care must
be observed to keep it in an upright position, in case
the cow moves the head suddenly.
Stomatitis From Mis-Cut Ensilage
Ensilage improperly cut in length is frequently the
cause of a considerable degree of stomatitis and ulcer-
ations of the buccal mucosa.
The condition makes itself known by profuse sali-
vation, smacking of the lips, and refusal of feed. All
the symptoms point to a purely local trouble in the
mouth. Several cattle are usually affected simultane-
ously. Examination will show the mucous membrane
of the mouth quite generally inflamed, with numbers
of spots in various stages of ulceration.
We recall an instance during the recent epizootic of
foot-and-mouth disease in which a city veterinarian
diagnosed this condition, caused by mis-cut ensilage,
foot-and-mouth disease. A small-town country prac-
titioner promptly set him right and handled the cases
to the satisfaction of all concerned by withdrawing
the ensilage from the daily ration.
12 SPECIAL CATTLE THERAPY
This, in fact, practically constitutes the entire treat-
ment of this condition. Should a particular case pre-
sent especially severe lesions a mouth wash ean be
used for a few days, or the ulcerating spots can be
touched up with equal parts tincture iodin and com-
pound tineture of benzoin a few times.
Foreign Bodies in the Tongue
Hard, sharp objects such as pins, nails, pieces of wire
and the like, are quite frequently found lodged in the.
tongue of the cow. We dare say, that in probably
ninety-five per cent of the eases absolutely no symp-
toms are produced that can be observed ordinarily.
When symptoms of an objective nature are produced
they point very distinctly to the region involved.
Objects which are not wholly embedded in the lingual
tissues may be discovered without difficulty. They are
to be removed and the wound given whatever atten-
tion is required. Very small wounds here are best
left alone.
Objeets which are wholly embedded are detected by
very eareful and painstaking examination, disclosing
their location always as a distinetly circumseribed area
of hardened tissue. When this area has been located
it is still necessary to locate the object itself by in-
cision, carrying the incision inward by repeated cuts
until the object is disclosed. It is then to be appro-
priately removed and the wound is treated along ordi-
nary lines.
ACUTE PAROTITIS 13
ACUTE PAROTITIS
Acute inflammation of the parotid glands, commonly
termed ‘‘mumps,’’ is a very common disease of cattle.
It is seen under all conditions of housing and at va-
riable seasons. The prognosis of parotitis in cattle,
(not due to actinomyecosis), is very favorable and the
course of the disease is usually typieal.
Parotitis begins with a rigor in most cases. The
temperature may run as high as 106° F. in the be-
ginning. At the same time there is noticed a slight
fullness in the region of the parotid gland, from the
ear to the angle of the jaw. This fullness increases
rapidly until at the end of twenty-four hours or there-
about, there is a distinet, rounded swelling in the re-
gion. This swelling is very tender on pressure, and
the cow stands with the head extended in a line with
the neck. If the trouble is unilateral the head is held
to one side and partly twisted on its own axis. The
cow attempts to eat but finds deglutition very pain-
ful, and usually all feed is refused. In drinking water
much time is consumed in the act and, after a number
of swallows have been taken, the animal gives up the
attempt. If the swelling in the parotid region is very
extensive and reaches below the larynx and between
the rami of the lower jaw there may be a degree of
dyspnea.
Ordinary cases yield to treatment in a week or ten
days. In other cases abscess formation delays the
recovery, so that in certain instances three or four
weeks may elapse before the case is completely cured.
The best results in the treatment of this disease are
obtained from repeated injections of polyvalent bac-
terins. We give a full dose hypodermically every three
days until the case is under control.
14 SPECIAL CATTLE THERAPY
For local applications over the swollen parotids we
have found nothing better than iodin tincture. The
first two or three days we paint the entire swelling
Several times during the day with pure tincture of
iodin. Later we make the applications only onee daily.
Since we have been using the foregoing treatment
we have had no case with abscess formation, and re-
covery iS more prompt than with old line treatments.
In addition to the above treatment we make it a rule
to see to it that a tub or large pail of water is kept
constantly before the animal where it can be reached
without much effort. A few tablespoonfuls of dilute
sulphurie acid are added to each tub of water, for its
refrigerant and astringent effect.
The feed should consist of thin slops and other moist
feeds.
If abscess formation should occur we recommend
early incision. We do not pay much attention to the
invasion of the parotid gland with the lance; even
when the abscess is lanced directly through the gland
substance. Permanent salivary fistula is rare.
ACTINOMYCOSIS (‘‘Lumpy Jaw’’)
Actinomycosis comes to the veterinarian’s attention
only when it is localized on some exterior portion of
the body. Actinomycotic processes of the internal or-
evans, such as the lungs for instance, are probably
never diagnosed ante-mortem.
The actinomycotie lesion most frequently seen in
practice is in the region of the angle of the lower jaw
or in the parotid region. Next in frequency as regards
location is that form which involves the tissues lying
in the space between the rami of the lower jaw.
ACTINOMYCOSIS 15
Not quite so frequent, but yet common enough, is
actinomyeosis of the tongue. In all forms this disease
shows a decided preference for young or middle-aged
cattle; old cattle are only occasionally affected.
While it is presumed to be infectious it is generally
found in isolated instances. One cow in a herd of
dairy cattle may have the disease in a well-marked
form and not another animal in the herd become
affected; but often more than one become affected, the
number sometimes including twenty-five per cent of
large herds. :
When the disease makes its appearance at the angle
of the jaw it is in the form of a smooth tumefaction
or lump, or ‘‘bunch.’’ In the early stages this tume-
faction increases in size, becomes more firm, and
usually tends to become anchored or fixed to the bone.
Still later the center becomes necrotic, and the typical
stringy, marrow-colored pus is discharged.
If the case is not checked at this time it may pro-
gress until the bone itself is involved in the disease
process, and the treatment then becomes difficult.
When actinomyeosis involves the tissues lying be-
tween the rami of the inferior maxilla we find this
space completely filled with a mass of dense, appar-
ently fibrous, tissue. If the disease has existed here
for some time the enlargement can be seen plainly
with the animal in the standing position; the under
side of the jaws between the chin and throat appears
curved from before backwards with a considerable belly
towards the bottom.
After variable periods of time this swelling breaks
down in one or more places. Usually there are three
or four openings, and from these escapes actinomycotic
pus. The pus in this location is not so characteristic,
being thin and lighter in consistency.
16 SPECTALVCAT TRE TELA y
Actinomyeosis involving the tongue usually does not
produce noticeable symptoms until it is quite exten-
sive. When the condition does attract attention it is
usually seen that the cow has difficulty in mastieating
her food. The mouth is constantly held partly open
and saliva is continually dripping from the opening.
The tongue seems too large for the mouth and when
the veterinarian examines it he finds that it feels me +
or less solid or ‘‘woody.’’ When the disease has p:
oressed to this stage it is only a matter of a she t
time until the cow finds eating an impossibility and if
the condition is not properly treated the animal dies
of inanition.
The treatment of actinomycosis 1s very satisfactory
when the disease has confined itself to soft tissue.
When it has invaded the dense tissues, bone or ¢ar-
tilage, the treatment-is not so satisfactory.
In that form which asserts itself in the form of a
tumor or bunch at or near the angle of the jaw t.1e
treatment begins with incision of the tumor. That
this may be safely and thoroughly done it is necessary
to east the patient. It is almost impossible to so ecn-
fine a cow in the standing position that the necessa *y
steps in the treatment can be satisfactorily and safely
performed. Having east the patient, the veterinarian
incises the tumor near the most dependent part, using
an abscess knife and making the incision not more
than one inch in length. The incision is carried wll
into the center of the tumor and the interior is then
thoroughly curetted. This is a painful operation aid
is best performed under anesthetics. When this has
been done a gauze or cotton wad, which has been s,t-
urated in a ten per cent solution of chromium triox d,
is packed firmly into the cavity and the animal is
allowed to get up.
ACTINOMYCOSIS dO
In most eases this completes the local treatment in
this form of the disease. After a week or ten days the
entire mass of diseased tissue drops out and leaves but
little sear.
The internal treatment in this, as in all other forms
of actinomycosis, eonsists of the administration of
oa iodid. The result obtained from the use otf
—?*">tassium iodid in this disease is frequently nothing
‘hort of marvelous. The dose is from one to two
“Gams three times daily for matured cows, and it 1s
to be persisted in until all symptoms of the disease
have disappeared. If iodism supervenes the drug can
be discontinued for a few days and then be given
again. Unless the disease has already involved the
inferior maxilla a complete recovery may be expected
in from two to three weeks.
The treatment of that form which attacks the tissue
lying between the rami of the inferior maxilla varies
{rom the foregoing only in the local treatment. The
openings which are present, if any, are merely en-
larged slightly with a sharp curette. If there are no
cpenings present no attempt is made to produce any
Ly surgical means. The swelling is subjected to no
further local handling than a daily painting with pure
tineture of iodin.
In actinomycosis of the tongue the treatment is con-
fined to the internal administration of the potassium
iodid. The results in this form are most prompt and
highly pleasing to both the client and the veterinarian.
lfowever, unless the treatment 1s persisted in for a
sufficient length of time relapses of this form fre-
cuently occur. The treatment should be kept up until
iodism has been produced at least three or four times;
only then can a cure be assured. Half dram doses of
~
18 SPECIAL CATTLE THERAPY
fluid extract of phytolacea improve the action of potas-
sium iodid when given with it in these eases.
In summing up the treatment of actinomycosis it
ean be said that even very extensive lesions ean be
controlled and ultimately entirely cured with judicious
use of potassium iodid. In our own practice we do
not pay very much attention to the local handling
even when the actinomycotic growth has assumed
great proportions. The following case report is an
example of the effect of potassium iodid in this disease.
A Jersey cow had an actinomycotic tumor at the angle of the
jaw extending to and involving the parotid region. It was of
long standing when it came into our hands, having gone through
various courses of treatment with home remedies. At the time
we were called in the cow was barely able to breathe, the tumor
having involved the trachea and larynx, probably producing
the dyspnea by pressure. The dyspnea was so distressing that
a tracheotomy had to be performed. Under treatment improve-
ment progressed so rapidly that the tube was taken out at the
end of a week, all signs of dyspnea having disappeared. The
tumor itself had been reduced to the size of a lemon.
Another ease, illustrating the effect of potassium
iodid in actinomycosis involving the tissues in the
space between the rami of the lower jaw may be cited.
This case occurred in a Holstein ealf, six or eight months old.
The entire space was filled up with the growth and a number
of openings were discharging typical pus. Examination of the
interior of the mouth showed the lingual canal pushed up and
nearly filled in, making the tongue appear as though it were
crowded against the roof of the mouth. The calf was emaciated
and stunted in growth.
The openings were curetted slightly and the calf allowed to
get up. He was put on a dram of potassium iodid morning and
evening, and the enlargement painted once or twice daily with
tincture iodin. In two weeks there was no sign of swelling
and the calf had improved remarkably in condition.
To assure a permanent result the potassium iodid was con-
tinued a week longer and paintings were made occasionally
with iodin. The calf has developed into a fine bull, is now
eighteen months old and is entirely free from any sign of the
trouble. The entire treatment covered about three or four
weeks’ time.
It should be mentioned that actinomyecosis involving
the parotid gland is for some reason more difficult to
EPIZOOTIC KERATITIS 19
cure than when it involves other soft structures, even
more stubborn to-treat than some of the cases where
osseous tissue is extensively involved. The treatment
ig the same as that for involvement of other organs
and tissues.
EPIZOOTIC KERATITIS
This is a disease affecting the eyes of cattle which
occurs from time to time in certain localities. Tf-i8
seen usually during the summer months when the cat-
tle are on grass. Almost without exception it attacks
every animal in a herd of cattle which it invades. In
rare instances a few animals may escape the infection.
The first attacked in an outbreak usually develop
the disease in its most severe form; towards the latter
part of the epizootic the cases become milder and may
recover spontaneously.
The disease affects cattle only. Horses in the same
pastures with the affected cattle do not develop the
disease, nor are other animals on the farm affected.
We recall an instance where a man, who had a herd
of cows under his eare during an outbreak of keratitis
and who treated the eyes of those affected, contracted
a mild conjunctivitis.
In the mild or sub-acute form the symptoms are con-
fined wholly to the eyes. In the severe form the ani-
mal shows systemic derangement such as loss of appe-
tite and a considerable interference with the lacteal
secretion.
The first symptom, that the farmer Sees, when the
disease appears in his herd is lachrymation. When the
cows are brought in from pasture at night he notices
a few cows with ‘‘a running from the eyes. bine
20 SPECIAL CATTLE THERAPY
eyes are only partly open and the lids appear slightly
swollen. Within twenty-four to forty-eight hours
nearly every animal in the herd is affected. In those
that develop the disease in its severe form the lachry-
mal flow becomes purulent on about the second day.
The cornea becomes the seat of an uleer, or several
of them. In not a few eases the ulceration continues
until perforation of the cornea results, staphylomata
appear and the eye is permanently injured. A deposit
of pus may also be seen along the inferior margin of ©
the cornea in the anterior chamber. Permanent cor-
neal and even lenticular opacities frequently destroy
the sight.
In the mild cases the symptoms consist of profuse
lachrymation, and a considerable degree of photo-
phobia. This disappears in three or four days under
treatment, or even without treatment. In the severe
form from two to three weeks may elapse before the
disease runs its course, leaving one or both eyes partly
or wholly blind.
The treatment of this disease is entirely local, con-
sisting of antiseptic and astringent solutions and. oint-
ments.
In the mild form we use one per cent yellow oxid
of mercury ointment. A small lump of this ointment
of about the size of a pea, is placed within the lower
eyelid near the external canthus and the lids pressed
together a few moments, until the ointment becomes
warm. It is then distributed over the interior surface
of the orbit by gentle massaging of the lids and the
movements of the eye-ball.
The animals should be kept indoors and the stable
darkened for a few days. In three to five days re-
covery is complete. In the severe form, in which the
discharges from the eyes are purulent in character a
EPIZOOTIC KERATITIS 21
solution of zine sulphate of from two to four per cent
strength is to be used. It is best applied with a small
olass syringe having a soft rubber tip.
With the owner or an attendant holding the cow’s
head, the person giving the treatment draws the lower
eye-lid away from the globe, by pulling on the lashes;
about a teaspoonful of the zine sulphate solution is
then squirted into the cup thus formed and the lid
allowed to return to position. This is repeated three
times daily until the most acute symptoms have dis-
appeared. The treatment is then terminated, with
daily applications of the yellow oxid of mercury oint-
ment. In complicated cases that develop ulcers on the
cornea the ulcers should be touched up every other
day with ten per cent siiver nitrate solution, by means
of a cotton swab on an applicator. Staphylomata that
occur in the form of sacculated protrusions of the
iris following perforation of the cornea from ulcer-
ation, should be snipped off with scissors and then
eauterized. Before either the cauterization of an ulcer
or the ablation of the staphyloma is attempted the eye
should be anesthetized. The simplest and most con-
venient method of anesthetizing the eye is by placing
a one grain quinin-urea hydrochlorid tablet between
the lids, and waiting about twenty minutes for anes-
thesia to become established.
Collections of pus in the lower part of the anterior
chamber of the eye are best ignored. They usually
become absorbed without producing particular damage.
Opacities of either the cornea or the lens that remain
after the inflammation are best treated with iodides
~ internally.
Synechia (adhesions between the iris and cornea
anteriorly, or the iris and lens posteriorly) can usually
be prevented by the addition of a few drops of fluid
22 SPECIAL CATTOR THhiar ¥
extract of belladonna (or a solution of atropin) to the
zine sulphate solution. This will produce mydriasis
sufficiently to withdraw the iris from the active field
of the disease.
Darkened quarters are essential in all cases, because
of the marked photophobia. The affected cattle should
be kept out of bright light until recovery is assured.
Light should be excluded from the stable by means
of blankets or canvas hung before windows and doors.
Bandages should not be used with the object of shield-
ing or protecting the eye. Their use favors ulceration.
CANCER OF THE EYE
This condition, sometimes termed fungus hema-
toids, is decidedly common in eattle. Only one eye °
is affected as a rule, and the condition comes to the
attention of the veterinarian in various stages, from
the benign appearing granular growth on the edge of
the cornea to the immense eauliflower-like growth in-
volving the entire orbit.
Most of these cases begin as a small, flat mass of
eranular tissue near the corneo-scleratic margin. The
mass stands off from the globe quite prominently and
has the appearance of what is commonly termed
‘‘proud flesh.’? This slowly spreads over the surface
of the eye-ball; in most cases, at first, in a thin, flat
layer. Later, there is a purulent flow of mucus from
the affected eye, and the growth begins to assume the
form of a ‘‘bunch,’’ layer after layer of new cells be-
ing formed. This continues until the growth projects
outward an inch or more. The tissue is very vascular ;
sight handling or touching in any manner induces
bleeding. Still later the external surface of the mass
CANCER OF THE EYE 23
becomes necrotic, assumes a blackish-gray color and
constantly exudes serum, pus and shreds of tissue.
If the disease is not checked the growth continues
to increase in size, crowding the eye-ball deep into the
orbit. Nothing of the eye itself can be seen; the entire
orbital cavity is filled with the new growth, the lids
and orbital conjunctiva developing additional new
erowths.
Finally the lymphatics in the region break down,
forming enlargements on the side of the head and
parotid region that open and discharge purulent mat-
ter. The animal becomes ecachectic and finally dies.
Treatment of cancer of the eye is not very satis-
factory. If the eye is to be saved the case must be
submitted to treatment as soon as possible after the
first layer of granular tissue forms. If the veterinarian
is able to begin the treatment in this stage he can
promise his client fairly good results.
To handle the condition satisfactorily, even at this
stage, it is usually necessary to cast the cow and pro-
duce profound anesthesia, without which all attempts
at worthy treatment are usually converted into bungle-
some interference. We make this statement with due
consideration, following personal experience.
When the cow has been chloroformed the orbital
cavity is to be copiously irrigated with a very mild
bichlorid or chinosol solution. With an eye speculum
holding the lds apart the layer of cells is very care-
fully shaved off, care being taken not to injure the
healthy face of the cornea.
In this early stage it will be seen that the layer of
eranulation tissue is underlaid with a thin band of
white connective tissue. This band is apparently the
foundation of the growth; it is very intimately con-
nected to the surface of the cornea. When the soft
~
24 SPECIAL CATTLE THERAPY
layer of granular cells has been thoroughly shaved off,
no attempt should be made to remove the band of
white tissue just named. We do not disturb this with
the knife, but submit it to a thorough cauterization
with a solution of bichlorid of mereury, five grains to
an.ounce of distilled water. This cauterization is per-
formed with a very small, firmly rolled cotton swab;
it is dipped into the solution until saturated, after
which most of the solution is squeezed out so that the ©
Swab is just nicely moist. This is done to prevent any
superfluous: solution from running over the healthy
cornea. The swab so prepared is held and drawn over
the entire band of white tissue, using moderate pres-
sure and repeating the process seven or eight times,
using a fresh swab each time. When the.swabbing has
been completed the parts should have a dry, woolly
appearance.
The cow is allowed to revive from the chloroform
and nothing further done for twenty-four hours, at
the end of which time daily applications of a four per
cent yellow oxid of mereury ointment are begun, plac-
ing a small piece of the ointment between the lids only.
After a week these applications are made every other
day, until another week has elapsed. They may then
be discontinued and the case usually considered cured.
An opaque area will remain in the vicinity of the
original lesion.
‘When the disease has been allowed to progress until
there are several thicknesses of granulation tissue and
the eye is discharging a muco-purulent fluid the above
treatment is of no avail. If it is demanded that some-
thine be done the surgeon should advise a complete
enucleation of the eye and its adnexa. ‘The sooner
this operation is undertaken the better. We do not
advise enucleation unless the animal is especially valu-
AMAUROSIS 20
able for some reason or other. The operation is not
always followed by satisfactory results and unless
there is an exceptionally good reason for resorting to
this measure we recommend slaughter in the severe
forms of this disease.
-AMAUROSIS
This is nearly always a disease of pregnancy when
it occurs in cows. In one instance a case occurred in
our practice as a sequel to parturient paresis.
The whole symptom complex of amaurosis is blind-
ness.
There are no lesions in the eye or in its appendages
which the examiner can detect; the organs have a per-
feetly normal appearance. |
When the disease occurs during the pregnant state
it begins usually during the last weeks of the period.
The veterinarian is informed that the cow suddenly
went blind. Aside from her inability to see, she is
in good health.
Amaurosis occurring under these conditions is a
transient disease, which disappears at parturition or
very soon thereafter.
The case occurring in our practice as a sequel to
parturient paresis persisted for some weeks. Ulti-
mately a course of potassium iodid terminated the
ease satisfactorily. .
It is very doubtful whether any treatment should
be attempted in cases occurring in the latter weeks
of gestation. Knowing that the condition is entirely
‘the result of the pregnaney and that it will correct
itself spontaneously with the arrival of the calf, we
can usually serve the patient and our client best by
26 SPECIAL CATTLE THERAPY
advising against direct interference with the trouble
by* medical means. If the condition should persist
after the parturition we would advise a course of po-
tassium iodid internally.
EPISTAXSIS
Nasal hemorrhage can occur in cattle as the result
of injuries and contusions under the same cireum-
stanees that it occurs in other animals.
The particular form of epistaxsis which we will
discuss here is that form which occurs now and then
in cows during the period of gestation, and not as the
result of trauma.
The cows which are the subjects of a hemorrhage
of this nature are generally aged cows in somewhat
unthrifty condition.
They are most frequently affected during the lat-
ter period of pregnancy, usually when about four to
six weeks before calving. The symptoms are pre-
cipitated by a somewhat profuse flow of blood from
one or both nostrils, amounting on occasions to sev-
eral pints.
The flow stops of its own accord in most eases, after
a few hours. The cow is off feed for a day or two and
nothing further of note follows. After five or six
days, sometimes a week or ten days, the hemorrhage
recurs, leaving the cow usually in a dejected, weak
condition. Three or four such hemorrhages may
oceur before the close of gestation, after which they
do not occur again. Evidently the pregnant state is
responsible for the condition in some manner, it be-
ing distinetly a disease of pregnancy.
If the hemorrhages are severe enough and recur at
short intervals, the cow is in poor condition to sur-
EPISTAXSIS 27
vive the ordeal of parturition and its probable com-
plications. The milk output is decidedly curtailed and
sometimes entirely lacking. If there should happen
to be a considerable degree of dystocia, or an infeec-
tion following on complete or partial retention of the
secundines, the cow will probably succumb.
It has been our experience that, where the case
comes into our hands at the time of the first hemor-
rhage or soon thereafter, we can carry the cow through
the period of gestation to an uneventful parturition,
and prevent recurrence of the hemorrhage.
Our remedy is iron, and we give it in the form of
the tincture of ferric chlorid once or twice a day in
one ounce doses, diluted with water. No further
bleeding occurs and the cow improves in condition
promptly.
HEMORRHAGE FOLLOWING DEHORNING
Dehorning is now and then followed by persistent
bleeding, the subjects as a rule being unthrifty young-
sters. Fatal hemorrhage after dehorning is very rare,
but we have seen alarming symptoms, a good many
times, result from prolonged dripping in weakly stock.
While it is not a very difficult matter to control
the hemorrhage, the means employed should do as
little damage as possible. We have frequently seen
severe catarrhal involvement of the sinuses and nares
from injudicious treatment of a hemorrhage of this
kind.
If the patient is quite young and tractable, the best
means for checking the bleeding consists of a wad of
absorbent cotton and a bandage. The cotton can first
be saturated with an ordinary antiseptic solution; it
28 SPECIAL CATTLE THERAPY
is then applied on the horn stump and tightly ban-
daged in place. If the animal is confined in a stan-
chion, a rope securely tied across the stanchion up-
_rights can serve the purpose of keeping the head
raised for an hour or two. The bandage may be left
in place for ten or fifteen hours, after which it is cut
across and allowed to come off of its own accord.
In other animals, or those which will not submit to
bandaging, the best effect is obtained from prolonged
irrigation of the bleeding stump with a very warm
solution of potassium permanganate not more than
one per cent strength. Fifteen minutes:of continued
irrigation with this agent by means of a fountain
syringe gives good results. The syringe should be
hung high enough to give considerable force to the
stream. In all cases the head should be held high by
means of halters and ropes.
A hypodermic injection of atropin sulphate, from
one-fourth to one-half grain, assists materially in
checking the flow.
We condemn the use of Monsell’s solution and Mon-
sell’s powder in hemorrhages of this nature. When
the solution is used, sinus and nasal ecatarrh result
almost every time; when the powder is used, suppura-
tion always occurs under the scab around the base
of the stump.
WIRE CUTS 29
WIRE CUTS AND OTHER LACERATED INJURIES
Space is devoted in this treatise to the above con-
ditions chiefly with the object of impressing on the
practitioner the fact that even the most extensive cuts
and tears unite beautifully with proper suturing.
This is especially noteworthy when the cuts or lacera-
tions are in a location where no tendons or articula-
tions are involved in the trauma.
Sutures should be set well back from the edges of
the wound and a heavy, braided silk suture material
should be used. If care is taken to provide ordinary
drainage for the wound, the sutures will not tear or
slough out, but remain in place until healing is com-
plete. It is well to select a strong needle for the.
purpose and a needle holder is almost indispensable
because of the extreme toughness of the skin.
A daily irrigation of the wound with an antiseptic
solution is all that is necessary as after-treatment.
Exuberant granulations do not occur.
Wounds of this nature treated during the warm
months must be protected from the activities of flies.
For this purpose we find an excellent and cheap
preparation in one part oil of cajuput shaken up with
two parts of olive oil. This is painted around the
edges of the wound with a small brush or feather
several times daily. The oil of cajuput alone acts
very well as a ‘‘fly-chaser,’’ but used alone repeat-
edly it is slightly irritating and evaporates too quickly.
The olive oil overcomes both of these objections.
Another satisfactory fly repellent is composed of
phenol one part; turpentine one part, and olive oil or
cottonseed oil sixteen parts.
30 SPECIAL CATTOR THERAPY
ACUTE ARTHRITIS
Acute arthritis is seen quite frequently in cows.
The most common seat is the hock. 22
Chapmed teats... 7542. aien « 137
Cocerdial dysentery. .: 1. : 60
COMME ey acts a apo See nee oes 51
Coneretions in sub-urethral
AT Vert CULM -( 1.) 5. 328 ee 113
Cormeak uicerss'.4.. ees 21
COW) VOR cates Stoke ether ante 135
Cracked. “teats. 2 Poe 137
Cyst, Douglass’ pouch..... 115
Cysts. Sublameuala 2... 6 cus 8
Dental irregularities...... 10
Diarrhea in calves, simple 65
Distoma, whepaticum.,. <2... 53
Douglass” pouch cyst. ....2: 115
Drenching, the proper
MUCHO KOU ia.5/s.5 ait Sine 8 5
Dropsical “swellings... 2... 5D
Dares eae clon: OF... cok wee 5
Drugs, administration of.. 5
Dysenteries, differentiation
OD sei rodkksannis-s'e,« ott Sate oe 63
Dysentery of calves,
UM POCELOUBC s/n) 0 os cere ee 67
Dysentery, coceidial .. 2... 60
Dysentery, enzootic .....7, 36
Dysentery—Johnes disease 62
Eelamptie parturient
PCO SU GSH tetererde crass, ont riers 91
Enzootie dysentery........ 56
HIPS DARAS O Aehete ate e ore cieees 26
Epizootie keratitis... 4. 19
Eversion of the uterus... .108
155
156 INDEX
Bye, anesthesia of. ..).. .). Zl | ONbastitas) o's cee Biss eee Ree 123
Wipes CANCEL MOL y. sc.5 2 bette 22 | Medication of cattle,
Fasciola hepaticum. .. .-. 2). 53 puceessel pay YE Batak fi
, | Medication, hypodermic... 6
Fetal death, symptoms of. 93 SES : ;
; ; Be. |o Medication, oral. amas D
Fibrolysin for hygromas.. 33 P
, ; Mereuric chlorid for can-
Histula, lacteal i w.eiaaw« 131
: : cer ofthe: @yes sa. eee 24
hwkey liver sic weet tas es 53 hs. i
o ; Mercurie oxid for keratitis 20
Hl —repellenmiisne acetate get. 29 :
c ; Mille -f6Ver. acct: scsragere sesame 83
Foot-and-mouth disease.... 11 5
A é : st Molars, deciduous. 7. ian ee 10
Foreign bodies, ingested... 34 ;
rawr eee Molars,, detective: 2. canoe 10
oreign bodies in tongue. 12 _ ;
Ss Monsel’s solution for
HOGA CHUPCS* pose seers «irae ol
hemorrhages: - ccneuien seem 28
Hemorrhage following IMUM Sy oeenaeaeee Gitte clcteteeee 13
GE MOM Vane ek enya sta 27 | Muscular rheumatism..... 68
Hemorrhage from the nose 26 Ae ane nea: . 0
Herpes tonsurans. 7... 2%). 102 ome ee
Hoven ........- sees eee 40 | Obstetrical paralysis...... to
Rtas OaE (OINV EL yee royeens Wiesave net oveyare fetes SA ee Oe Peed? 2 oso. es eee 52
Hypodermic medication... 6
Impaction of the rumen.. 48
Ingested foreign bodies... 34
Intestinal antiseptic for
TAA C ELUM detolede =, ty ehe!¢ 2a) si 50
Intestinal antiseptics for
Thurow ’s idasease. .....\... 39
JONMES CASEHSE ee oy este. 62
Keratitis, epizootic....... 19
Knee, hygroma of........ 32
Dacerated. AW jUrIes's 6.5.) osy. 29
Lacteal duct, atresia of. .127
Inaeteal fistulae... «2 131
DEA PAT OLOMINT cece e «een 35
Hever a Wet aeacns ao ote ge shes 53
Liver, foreign bodies in.. 36
TeQIRMOV [A Wrernete oe ~ ia piemnslon 14
Lungs, foreign bodies in.. 37
VA IIRE AS iit’. cpg teiaie, rete oe 123
Mania, puerperal.......... 77
Opacities of lens or-cornea. 21
Paralysis, acute bulbar... ofa
Paralysis, obstetrical...” . (fe
Paralysis, Senilere aes aan 76
Parr phar eles ihe cei accieherateateta 70
Paresis, parturient........ 83
PHrGbi bre, AiCUce As... 5). tte 13
Parturient paresis .........s 83
Parturient paresis,
CCUAUUMELG —oisie't a's ova tereeeane on
Parturient paresis,
» RECWUPPOME rh )\c.5 ost <. > 105
Wi Bie LO Lai Pecera ae ectia wets: olele trae 135
WAEReC st Tete as acs « cisnscere' wo ef 29
WO0die One e. 7). 6. Nee 16
Wright’s treatment for
NOM arbre sees cave = ors, scone aera 42
Zine sulphate for keratitis £1
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