READING FREE LIBRARY. Reading, Vim U JL/Ut^t-^g-Tyf'^^ 2J19^ remarks: Mlo\ * ..^ 191/ JOHNA.SEAVERNS \,f 4^- oC l^n^ rd J / ^r& JERSEY. THE DISEASES OF LIVE STOCK AND THEIR MOST EFFICIENT REMEDIES ; INCLUDING HORSES, CATTLE, COWS, SHEEP, SWINE, FOWLS, DOGS, ETC. A POPULAR TREATISE, GIVING IN BRIEF AND PLAIN LANGUAGE A DESCRIP- TION OF ALL THE USUAL DISEASES TO WHICH THESE ANIMALS ARE UABLE, AND THE MOST SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT OF AMERICAN, ENGLISH AND EUROPEAN VETERINARIANS. WILLIAM B. E. MILLER, D.V.S., PRESIDENT OP THE UNITED STATES VETERINARY ASSOCIATION ; CHIEF VETERINARY SUROEOM ■OP "HE NEW JERSEY STATE BOARD OF HEALTH; ONE OF THE VETERINARIANS OP THE BUREAU OP ANIMAL INDUSTRY, DEPARTMENT OF AOBICULTUEE, WASHINGTON, ETC., ETC. LLOYD V. TELLOR, M.D. L. C. HASCALL & CO.^ BOSTON, MASS. 188G. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1885, by D. G. BRINTON, in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D. C. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Press of \VM. F. FELL & CO., mO-1224 Sausom St , Phila. PREFACE. The authors of this book have endeavored to place be- fore the public a work embodying all the principal diseases incident to live stock, together with the most prominent s/mptoms and rational modes of treatment. It is especially designed to meet the necessities of a large class of farmers and stock owners, who, by the force of cir- cumstances, are compelled to treat their own animals when sick or disabled. It will also prove a valuable handbook for the young practitioner and a desirable acquisition to the library of the veterinary surgeon. It is full of useful in- struction, systematically arranged in a clear and comprehen- sive manner. The many diseases are distinctly and accu- rately defined, and the symptoms so clearly described that they should be easily recognized. The remedies recom- mended, and the methods of treatment prescribed, are safe and reliable, and, if administered in accordance with the instructions given, will generally be productive of good results. The illustrations of the devices and appliances for surgical operations and treatment are modern and simple, and the articles therein suggested are easily applied by all stock owners. CONTENTS. PART I. GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF VETERINARY MEDICINE. CHAPTER I. PAGE. REMARKS OX THE ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF DOMESTIC ANIMALS. The Brain and Nervous System ; The Organs of Breathing ; The Organs of Digestion ; The Heart, Blood Vessels and Absorb- ents ; The Kidneys and Sex Organs; The Reproductive Acts, 17 CHAPTER II. NURSING, CARE AND DIET OF SICK ANIMALS. Separation and Stabling ; Disinfection ; Rest and Sleep ; Cleans- ing and Dressing ; Position, Slings and Cradles ; Food and Drink ; Special Diet Preparations, ... 27 CHAPTER III. FORMS OF MEDICINES, AND METHODS OF THEIR ADMINISTRATION. luist of Forms and Methods ; Medication by the Mouth ; Injec- tions into the Nose ; Medication by the Rectum and Vagina ; Medication by the Blood Vessels ; External Methods of Medi- cation ; Weights and Measures, and their Domestic Equiva- lents • . » 38 6 Contents. PAGE. CHAPTER IV. yETKRINART SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS AND MINOR SURGICAL OPERATIONS. The Veterinary Pocket Case and its Contents ; Preparations for Operating ; Bleeding ; Setons ; Firing ; Sutures ; Operations on the Teeth ; Blistering, . . • . . 58 CHAPTER V. GENERAL RULES FOR RECOGNIZING AND DISTINGUISHING DISEASES. The Pulse ; The Breathing ; The Animal Heat ; The Skin and Hair ; The Posture ; Indications of Pain ; Special Signs in Cattle J Signs of Diseases of Particular Organs, . . 71 PART II. THE DISEASES OF THE HORSE. General Remarks on the Diseases of the Horse, . . 81 CHAPTER I. DISEASES OF THE BRAIN AND NEUTOUS SYSTEM. Congestion and Inflammation of the Brain ; P'.irenitis ; Mad, Blind or Sleepy Staggers, ..... 87 Cerebro-spinal Meningitis, ..... 89 Convulsive Diseases or Fits ; Apoplexy ; Epile;isy ; Falling Sick- ness ; St. Vitus' Dance or Striuglialt, ... 90 Megrims; Vertigo; GlJJiness, » . , ' . 91 Sunstroke, ....... 93 Contents. Paralysis or Palsy, Tetanus or Lockjaw, Hydropliobia, . PAGE. 94 96 98 CHAPTER II. DISEASES OF THE BREATHING ORGANS. Cautions in Treating Diseases of the Breathing Organs, Cold in the Head ; Catarrh, Nasal Gleet ; Running from the Nose, Cold in the Chest ; Bronchitis ; Chronic Cough, Influenza ; The Epizootic ; Contagious Catarrhal Fe Eye, . _ . . __ Sore Throat ; Laryngitis ; Pharyngitis, Inflammation of the Lungs ; Lung Fever ; Pneumonia Pleurisy, ...... Heaves ; Broken Wind ; Emphysematous Asthma, Roaring ; High Blowing ; Thick Wind ; Whistling, .:k 100 102 103 105 109 112 113 116 119 120 CHAPTER IIL DISEASES OF THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. General Remarks on Diseases of the Digestive Organs, . 123 Local Inflammation in and around the Mouth ; Lampas ; Vives ; Barbs and Paps; Tender and Bleeding Gums; Decayed Teeth ; Tooth Cough, 124 Indigestion and Dyspepsia, ..... 128 Cribbing ; Crib-biting ; Wind-sucking, . . . 130 Colic ; The Gripes, . . . . . . 131 Tympany ; Flatulent Colic ; Tympanites ; Swollen Belly, . 134 Constipation ; Costiveness, . . . ... 136 Diarrhea ; Scouring, ...... 137 Inflammation of the Bowels ; Enteritis, . . . 140 Dysentery ; Bloody Flux ; Colitis, .... 143 Congestion and Inflammation of the Liver ; Hepatitis ; Jaundice ; The Yellows, 146 Intestinal Worms, ...... 148 TheBots, 150 8 Contents, PAGE. CHAPTER IV. . DISEASES OF THE HEART, BLOOD VESSELS AND ABSORBEXTS. Palpitation ; Violent Heart Beat ; Thumps, . . . 152 Enlargement or Hypertrophy of the Heart, . . . 153 Fatty Degeneration of the Heart, . . . . 154 Aneurism ; Enlargement of the Arteries, . . . 155 Inflammation of the Jugular Vein ; Phlebitis, . . 156 Inflammation of the Absorbent Vessels ; Lymphangitis ; Weed ; Shot of Grease, . . . . • . 156 CHAPTER V. DISEASES OF THE KIDNEYS, BLADDER AND REX ORGANS. Inflammation of the Kidneys, .... 159 Inflammation of the Bladder, .... 160 Stone in the Bladder ; Gravel, .... 161 Retention or Suppression of Urine ; Strangury ; Difficult or Painful Staking, . . . . . . 162 Diabetes ; Profuse Staleing, . . . . . • 164 Black Water in Horses ; Hsematuria ; Azoturia, . . 165 Diseases of the Sex Organs ; Contraction of the Sheath ; Ex- ternal Inflammation of the Yard ; Internal Inflammation of the Yard ; Inflammation of the Vagina, . . 166 CHAPTER VI. GENERAL DISEASES, AND DISEASES OF THE BLOOD. Glanders, . . . . . . . 170 Farcy; Bud* Farcy ; Button Farcy, . . . . 1/3 Charbon in the Horse ; Purpura Hemorrhagica ; Spotted Fever, Rheumatism, Strangles ; Colt Distemper, Erysipelas; St. Anthony's Fire Dropsy; Ascites, . 175 178 181 185 186 Contents. CHAPTER VII. DISEASES OF THE FOOT OF THE HORSE. Structure of the Foot of the Horse, Lameness In the Horse ; How to Detect Lameness ; How to certain the Cause of the Lameness, Inflammation of the Feet ; Laminitis ; Founder ; Fever in Feet, ...... Corns, ....... Thrush or Frush of the Frog, ... Canker, ...... Punctured Wounds of the Feet ; Prickings ; Gathered Nails Sand Crack, ...... False Quarter, ...... Quittor; Fistula of the Coronet; Fibro- Chondritis of Foot, ...... Navicular Disease ; Grogginess ; Contraction of the Foot, Scratches; Mud Fever ; Cracked Heels ; Erythema of Heels, ...... Grease ; Eczema of the Heels, As- the the the 189 192 197 201 202 202 204 205 206 207 209 211 212 CHAPTER VIIL DISEASES OF THE LEG. Inflammation of the Bones, .... Sore Shins ; Inflammation of the Metacarpal Bones, . Splints or Splents, ..... Ring Bones, %..... Bog Spavin ; Blood Spavin ; Inflammation of the Hock Joint Bone Spavin, ...... Thorough-pin, ...... Capped Hock, ...... Side Bones, ...... 215 215 216 217 218 219 221 222 222 CHAPTER IX. WOUNDS AXD INJURIES, AND THEIR RESULTS. The General Treatment of Wounds ; To Check Bleeding ; Clean- ing the Wound ; Restoring the Position of the Parts ; To Pre- vent Inflammation, ...... 224 10 Contents. Sprains or Strains, ...... Strains of the Shoulder and Leg ; Rheumatic Joint ; Sprain of the Flexor Muscles ; Shoulder Slip ; Sprain of the Back Sinews, or Flexor Tendons, ...... Injuries of the Foot and Lower Leg; Interfering; Overreach; Tread, or Calking ; Speedy Cut ; Brushing, Wounds of the Knees ; Broken Knees, Elbow Sprain ; Elbow Lameness, .... Breaking Down ; Strain or Rupture of the Suspensory Ligaments, Wind-galls, ..... Curb; Sprain of the Calcaneo-cuboid Ligaments, Poll Evil, Fistulous Withers, .... Rotten Bone ; Necrosis and Caries of Bones, . Frostbite, ..... Burns and Scalds, .... Stings and Bites, .... Hernia ; Rupture ; Burst, . . . Choking, ..... PAGE. 228 230 232 233 234 235 235 236 237 238 239 241 242 243 244 245 CHAPTER X. DISEASES OF THE EYES. Inflammation of the Eyes; Conjunctivitis, Periodic Ophthalmia ; Moon Blindness, White Spot ; Eye Spot ; Albugo, > 248 249 251 CHAPTER XL DISEASES OF THE SKIN. Ringworm, ...... , 252 Nettle Rash ; Surfeit ; Urticaria, , 254 Moist Tetter ; Humid Tetter ; Eczema, 254 Mallenders and Sallenders; Psoriasis of the Carpus and the Tarsus, ...... . 256 Warbles; Grubs; Sitfasts, . . . . . 257 Mange ; Itch, ...... . 258 Lice, ....... . 260 Contents. H PART III. DISEASES OF CATTLE, SHEEP AND SWINE. INTRODUCTORY. PAGE. General Remarks on the Diseases of Cattle, and their Treat- ment, ....... 263 Peculiarities of the Action of Medicines on Cattle. . - 266 CHAPTER I. THE CONTAGIOUS OR EPIDEMIC DISEASES OF CATTLE. The Cattle Plague ; Rinderpest ; Contagious Enteric Fever of Cattle, 268 Pleuro-Pneumonia ; Contagious Lung Fever, . . 270 Foot and Mouth Disease ; Epizootic Aphthae ; Contagious Ec- zema, ....... 274 Charbon ; Black Quarter ; Quarter 111 ; Contagious Anthrax ; Bloody Murrain, ...... 276 Splenic Fever ; Texas Cattle Disease ; Spanish Fever, . 281 Cow-pox ; Smallpox of Cattle ; Variola Vaccina, . . 284 CHAPTER n. NON-CONTAGIOUS AND LOCAL DISEASES OP CATTLE. Catarrh ; Colds ; Coughs ; Snores j Snivels, . . 285 Consumption ; Wasting ; Pining, .... 287 Hollow Horn ; Horn-ail ; Anaemia of Cattle, . . . 289 Hoven ; Blown ; Impaction of the Rumen or First Stomach, . 291 Fardel-bound ; Maw-bound ; Stomach Staggers ; Impaction of the Omasum or Third Stomach ; Gastritis of Ruminants ; Lakeburn, ....... 293 12 Contents. Obstruction of the Bowels, .... Congestion and Inflammation of the Liver ; The yellows, Red Water ; Black Water ; Bloody Urine, Dysentery ; Bloody Flux ; Scouring Rot, Milk Sickness ; The Trembles, Rheumatism ; Felon, . . Foul in the Foot ; Foul Claw, . Lice, Ticks and other Vermin, . PAGE. 297 298 300 302 304 806 308 310 CHAPTER III. DISEASES OF THE COW IN PREGNANCY AND CALVING Barrenness or Sterility, ..... Abortion ; Slinking ; Slipping ; Dropping the Calf, . Calving or Parturition ; Rigid Neck of the Womb ; Bending of the Neck of the Womb, Unnatural Positions of the Calf, Flooding, Retained After-birth, Inversion of the Womb, Medical Treatment of Calving, Management of the Milk ; To Dry the Milk ; To Bring on or Increase the Milk ; To Correct Bloody and Blue Milk, Milk Fever; Puerperal Fever; Parturient Fever; Parturient Apoplexy; Inflammation of the Womb, Garget ; Caked Bag ; Mammitis, .... 813 315 318 320 322 323 323 325 327 329 333 CHAPTER IV. DISEASES OF CALVES. First Attentions, .... Diarrhea or Scouring, Epidemic Colic ; The Shoote or Shewte of Blood, Croup, ...... ^he Husk or Hoose ; Parasitic Bronchitis, . 33(1 330 338 338 339 Contents, CHAPTER V. 13 PAGE. DISEASES OF SHEEP. General Remarks on Diseases of Sheep, and their Treatment, Braxy ; Striking of the Blood ; Charbon in Sheep, Sheep Smallpox ; Variola Oviua, Louping 111 ; Thorter 111 ; The Gnaw Disease, Malignant Epizootic Catarrh ; The Sheep Distemper, . Colic ; Blown ; Blast ; "Wind Dropsy, Red Water ; Haematuria, Hoof Rot; Foot Rot, . Foul in the Foot, Stone in the Bladder, Lambing in the Ewe ; Heaving Pains Rheumatism of Lambs, . Constipation in Lambs, . Diarrhea in Lambs, Turnsick ; Sturdy; Gid ; Hydatid of the Brain, Sheep Bots; Grubs in the Head ; Head Maggots, Lung Worms ; The Hoose in Lambs ; White Skin ; Paper Skin ; Pelt Rot ; The Pale Disease, . u . . The Rot ; The Liver Fluke, ..... Intestinal Worms, ..... The Scab ; The Mange or Itch in Sheep, . . , Milk Fever ; Garget, 341 343 347 349 351 853 354 355 360 361 362 365 368 368 371 374 375 379 382 383 CHAPTER VI. DISEASES OF SWINE. General Remarks on Diseases of Swine, . . , 388 Hog Cholera, so-called, and its Varieties, . . . 389 Charbon in Swine ; Malignant Anthrax ; Carbuncular Disease ; White Bristle, ...... 390 Contagious Pneumo-enteritis ; Red Soldier ; f he Blue Disease : Purples, ....... 393 Malignant Epizootic Catarrh, ..... 400 Apoplexy and Staggers, ..... 403 Coughs, Colds, Quinsy, and Inflammation of the Lungs, . 404 Diarrheal Diseases ; Scours, . . , , , 406 14 Contents. Ague Cake ; Milt Swelling ; Splenitis, Leprosy, ...... Trichinosis, ...... Hydatids of the Kidneys; Kidney Worms ; Lard Worms, Measles, ...... The Mange, Itch, or Scab, .... Lice. ....... Page 407 408 409 410 411 412 413 CHAPTER Vn. DISEASES OF DOGS. General Remarks on Diseases of Dogs and their Treatment. 415 Colic, 416 Costiveness, . . 417 Diarrhoea and Dysentery, 418 Distemper, . 420 Mange, . . 422 Canker of the Ear, . . 423 Inflammation of the Eyes, 424 Fleas and Lice, 425 CHAPTER VIIL DISEASES OF FOWLS. General Remarks, ..... 426 Diarrhoea, • 427 Fowl Cholera, . , , 428 The Gapes, . 480 The Roup, . 431 Leg Weakness and Loss of Feathers, 482 Chicken Lice and Fleas, 432 CHAPTER IX. THE PROFIIABLE MANAGEMENT OF LIVE STOCK. The Cow. The Best Breeds, . The Dutch, Friesian or Holsteins, The Shorthorns, The Devons ; The Ayrshires, . 435 435 437 439 Contents. 15 The Jerseys, . PAGE 441 The Guernseys, • 443 The Herefords ; The Galloways ; The Kerrys, . 444 Swiss Cattle ; What Farmers Want, . 445 How to Choose a Good Cow, . 446 Guenon's Method, 448 The Art of Feeding Cows, 449 The Art of Milking, 451 Points in Cows, 452 Stall Feeding Cattle, . 454 Horse Points, . 456 The Sanitary Management of Live Stock, . . , 467 PART IV HYGIENE AND MEDICINES. CHAPTER I. HYGIENE OF THE HORSE, AND OF FATTENING. Hygiene of the Horse, .... 468 Condition Powders, .... 470 Disinfection, ..... 473 Hygienic Rules for Fattening Animals, 475 Cattle Powders and Condimental Food, 476 Diets for Fattening, . . . . . 477 CHAPTER II. POISONS AND THE TREATMENT OF POISONING. General Rules for the Treatment of Poisoning, 479 Vegetable Poisons ; Aloes ; Castor and Croton Seeds ; Diseased and Spoiled Foods ; Eupatorium ; Hellebore ; Laurel ; Poi- sonous Mushrooms ; Opium ; Ranunculus ; Savin ; St. John's Wort; Tobacco; Turpentine; Stramonium, . 480 16 Contents. PAGE Mineral and Chemical Poisons ; Acids ; Alkalies ; Alcohol ; Arsenic ; Brine ; Corrosive Sublimate ; Creasote ; Lead ; Mercury ; Strychnine ; Tartar Emetic, . . . 483 CHAPTER III. THE MORE IMPORTANT DRUGS AND MEDICINES USED FOR ANIMALS. Alphabetical List of the Most Useful Drugs, with their Doses, Forms of Administration and Formulas, . . . 488 Classified List of Drugs, according to their Action on the System, with Explanations, . . . . . ^ 505 Index, « • t * • • • • 511 UJ I- Ul < CO < H CO O I- _J QQ < X PART I. General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. CHAPTER I. EEMAEKS ON THE AXATO^IY AXD PHYSIOLOGY OP DOMESTIC ANIMALS. Tlie Brain and Nervous System — Tlie Organs of Breathing — Tlie Organs of Digestion — The Heart, Blood-vessels and Absorbents — The Kidneys and Sex Organs — The Repro- ductive Acts. "When one undertakes to repair a machine he should know something about its construction; and in like manner an acquaintance with anatomy and physiology is justly deemed necessary to the proper treatment of diseases. It is not, however, our purpose to enter into those abstruse sciences to any great extent ; but it will be profitable to con- sider in broad outlines, and in language free from technicali- ties, the structure and functions of the four species of ani- mals, the horse, cattle, the sheep and the hog, whose diseases it is our main purpose to describe in the pages of this book. In doing so we shall proceed in the same order in which the diseases themselves will be classified when wf come in turn to study them. (17) 2 IH General Principles of Veterinary 3Iediclne. THE BRAIN AND NERVOUS SYSTEM. The cavity of the skull is filled with the brain, which is liie organ of intelligence, of voluntary motion, and of the senses. The impressions on the senses are conveyed to the brain by the nerves, delicate branches of which are found in every part of the body. These branches unite and increase in size as we follow them up, until they reach what may be called the parent stem, which is the spinal cord, occupying the cavity in the backbone. This is attached to the brain at its base, so that every nerve fibre connects directly with the brain itself. The nerves of sight, of hearing, of taste and smell are adapted to convey the impressions of these senses only. In addition to this chief system of nerves, called the " cerebro-spinal " system, there is a lesser one, known as the " sympathetic " nerve system, which is distributed chiefly to the deep lying organs in the chest and abdomen, and to the blood-vessels. It is supposed to control the involuntary motions of those organs. The brain of the horse is small for his weight and the size of his head, weighing about thirty ounces, which is less than the smallest sized adult brain in man ; while the brain of the ox is still less, weighing about one-half that of the horse. As it is so much less active an organ in the lower ani- mals, it is much less apt to become diseased than in the human race. When its surfaces become inflamed, it leads to "mad staggers," a sort of delirium ; and when with this the spinal cord is attacked, the disease is that fatal and epidemic one known as *' cerebro-spinal meningitis." Pressure of blood on the brain either by overfilling of the blood-vessels or by their bursting produces a stupid dull condition, passing at times into complete unconsciousness, as we witness ia " sleepy staggers," sunstroke and apoplexy. The Breathing Organs. J 9 The nerves respond to the diseased condition of the brain either by excessive and violent action, as displayed in the spasms of megrims, epilepsy, lockjaw and hydrophobia ; or else by a more or less complete loss of their power of convey- ing sensation and motion, as in the varieties of palsy. What physicians call " diseases of the mind," as insanity and idiocy, do not seem to occur in the lower animals; although instances are recorded where horses have apparently deliberately committed suicide, which would appear to be an eyidence of hypochondria. THE ORGANS OF BREATHING. These consist of the lungs, and the tubes through which flir is conducted into them. The lungs are composed of millions of little sacs or vesicles, each vesicle opening into a minute tube, which tubes unite to form others of larger calibre, called bronchi; and finally all the bronchi join the lower end of the windpij^e or trachea, which continues up the throat to the mouth. The lungs do not lie immediately against the walls of the chest, but against a close membra- nous sac called the pleura, which lies between the lungs and the ribs. The act of breathing differs in frequency in different ani- mals. In the horse it averages in health ten or twelve times a minute, in the ox twelve or fourteen times, in man sixteen or eighteen times. It should also be quiet and regular, and any deviation from these natural conditions is justly regarded with suspicion. A warranted horse is held to be especially guaranteed " in wind and limb," any defect of the breathing organs being mentioned first as of first importance. When the minute vesicles of the lungs are inflamed we have the disease called inflammation of the lungs, lung fever or pneumonia ; when the inflammation is in the tubes or 20 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. bronchi, it is called bronchitis ; when in the upper windpipe, sore throat. Pleurisy is an inflammation of the membranous sac we have described as the pleura. Asthma, roaring, thick wind, broken wind, heaves and other disorders of the breath- ing arise from alterations in the nerves and tissues of these organs ; while consumption, although a general disease of the system, most frequently, both in men and horses, leads early to a softening and breaking down of the substance of the lungs. THE OEGAXS OF DIGESTIOX. ' These include much more than the stomach and bowels. The digestion of food really begins in the mouth, where it is ground by the teeth and altered by the chemical action of the saliva. Therefore we include under this heading, the mouth, teeth, throat, gullet, stomach and bowels. It is in this part of the system that the herbivorous ani- mals -diifer most from those which eat flesh only, and those which eat both flesh and vegetable food. The chemical processes which can convert dry hay to rich blood and firm flesh are wondrously complicated and require an extensive laboratory. This is furnished by a remarkable length of in- testine and generally by several stomachs. In man the intestines are six or seven times longer than his body ; in the pig they are thirteen times longer ; in the sheep they are twenty-eight times ; in the ox twenty-two times ; in the horse but ten times the length of the body. Yet this gives the horse an intestinal tube ninety feet long, and capable of containing more than a barrel of fluid. The teeth, in both the horse and the ox, as in the child, aj)pear at first in a temporary set called "milk teeth," which are followed by permanent ones, the cliange being completed in both animals about the fifth year of life. The horse has forty teeth, the ox and man thirty-two. As in the human Organs of Digestion. 21 mouth, there are in the horse three kinds of teeth, the front teeth or incisors, called the " nippers ; the canine teeth, called "tushes;" and the molar teeth, called "grinders." The appearance of the teeth and the amount of wear they dis- close, enable those acquainted with their development to de- cide positively of the age of a horse within one year up to nine years of age. But a discussion of this subject does not come within our province. The horse has but one stomach, while the ox and the sheep have each four. They are in both animals known by the same names. The first is the paunch or rumen ; the second is the honeycomb or kingshood ; the third is the manyplies or omasum ; the fourth is the red, the rennet or the aboma- sum. The first three communicate with the gullet by a common opening. The " cud " is contained in the first and second stomachs, and after it has been masticated a second time it j)asses to the third and fourth, and to the bowQls, to undergo the further process of digestion. This is accomplished by the peculiar action upon it of the secretion of the fourth stomach or rennet, an action fami- liarly known by the use of rennet in the kitchen, and of " pepsin " in medicine, which is obtained directly from this stomach ; and after it passes into the bowels by the secre- tions of the liver and pancras or sweet bread. Thus prepared, it comes into contact in the long course of the bowels — two hundred feet nearly in the ox — with count- less little absorbing points called " villi," which take up the food now changed to a large extent to a thick fluid, leaving the insoluble and undigested portions to continue down the tube to the rectum or anus, whence they are periodically dis- charged as feces or dung. As may readily be conceived, this intricate and delicate process is easily disturbed, and hence loss of appetite, im- paired digestion, and irregularity of the bowels accompany 22 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. nearly every disease on the catalogue. Improper food, and too little or too much exercise bring on indigestion or dys- pepsia, in which complaint there may be one or another form of disturbance. Colic, gripes or hoven is an accumulation of air or gas in the stomach or bowels, i:)ainfully stretching their walls. Scouring is a too free and watery action of the intes- tines ; dysentery and enteritis are when the intestines are in- flamed ; and obstruction occurs when tlirough hair-balla, rupture or twistings their passage is choked up. THE HEAET, BLOOD-VESSELS AND ABSOEBEXTS. The digested food, we have seen above, is taken up in the intestines in the shape of a milky fluid by innumerable absor- bent points or villi. What do they do with it ? They pour it into the al:)Sorbcnt vessels or lymphatics, which empty into larger and larger ones, and so on until the whole of the nu- tritive fluid is collected into one great duct or tube, which extends forward and pours its life-giving contents into the large veins at the base of the neck, whence it is conveyed to the heart and enters the general circulation of the blood. And this circulation, what is meant by it? It means that the blood is drawn in and driven out of the heart by its powerful throbs, with such force and rapidity that the whole of it in the body makes the circuit of the system in less than three minutes, washing out the dead and worn out particles, discharging them by the lungs, kidney and liver, and purging and brightening itself in the fresh air drawn in by the lungs for another such rapid and purifying race. The parts concerned in this circulation are the heart, the arteries and the veins. The arteries lead /rom the heart; the blood they carry is bright red, and it flows in waves, felt on the pulse, and shown when an arteiy is cut by the blood spouting in jets or sjjurts. The veins lead to the heart : the The Course of the Blood. 23 blood they carry is dark red, and it flows in a steady, regular stream. The arteries divide and subdivide into innumerable branches, diminishing to a size where it takes the strongest microscope to discover them, which are collected again into larger and larger branches to form the veins. These smallest divisions are the capillai^ies, and it is while in them that the blood alters in color from a bright to a dark red, by undergoing the changes necessary to keep up the life of the tissues through which it flows. Tlius the blood is returned to the heart dark and dull, and loaded with worn out matter. It enters the right side of the heart, which has two cavities wholly separate from two similar ones on the left side. It is at once driven to the Imigs, where it is spread over tlie delicate tliin walls of millions of vesicles and exposed to the air inhaled at each act of breathing ; it throws out carbonic acid gas, absorbs oxygen, and returns to the left side of the heart fresh and bright once more, and ready to recommence its journey. And so it continues its endless round till death stops it for- ever. In the human race diseases of the heart and blood-vesso.Is are common, but in the lower animals they are rare. N^o doubt the erect position of man, which demands heavier labor from the heart, is partly a cause of this ; another is his ' greater nervous excitability, and his intemperance. In both species, inflammatory rheumatism is often followed by a change in the valves and walls of the heart. Practically, it is of great importance to be able to distin- guish bleeding from arteries from bleeding from veins by the color of the blood. For venous bleeding will usually cease by simple measures ; but arteria^l bleeding requires the liga- ture. When the amount and quality of the food is largely in excess of the needs of the system for repairing its waste by 24 General Principles of Veterinary Ifedicine. exercise, the blood is said to be " too rich," and the animaV increases in fat, and may become sluggish and torpid. This state of plethora or " over-condition," though not actually a disease, is not one of the most perfect health ; and though it suits well for stall-fed steers, it is injurious to milk-cows and work or racing horses. It is counteracted by lower diet, more exercise, a brisk purge, and in racers by the process of " sweatino; " them under the saddle and sweat-cloths. THE KIDNEYS AND SEX ORGANS. The kidneys are the organs which secrete the urine from the blood. The fluid flows from them through a duct into the bladder, whence it is expelled from time to time. The urine of horses has a peculiar, strong unpleasant odor, and a bitter, salty taste; the urine of cattle is clear, of a pale yellow color, of a bitter taste, and a strong alkaline reaction. The urine of the sheep and the pig resembles that of cattle. The sex organs in the male horse are the sheath, the yard and the testicles. In the gelding and the steer, the latter are removed by the operation of castration. In the female the sex organs are the uterus or womb with its appendages, the ovaries and the vagina, which is the passage which conducts to .the womb. In mares this is about eighteen inches long. In the operation of spaying, the ova- ries are removed, which renders the female barren, and usually destroys her sexual desires. These desires in the female lower animals are only mani- fested, when in health, on certain periodical occasions, known as the " oestrum," when the animal is said to be " in heat." This is manifested by restlessness, callmg the male, signs of congestion and irritation about the sex organs, and by the discharge of a fluid from the vagina, which is said to have a characteristic and penetrating odor in the highest degree ex- citing to the perfect male. Breeding In-and-in. 25 The mammary glauds or udder is an appendage of the sex organs in the female. It is brought into action after fertile connection and reproduction have been accomplished — though the secretion of milk is possible without these. Although the horse, ox and sheep are strictly herbivorous animals, they live, vrhen young, on animal food in the form of milk ; and it is the desire by man to partake of this food that leads him to give so much attention to the breeding of cows in this country and of mares in Asia. The diseases of these organs form a very important class. Disturbances of the urinary secretion are by no means un- common in our domestic animals. Diabetes or excessive uri- nation is a familiar example; "red water" and "black water " are known in both horses and cows ; and inflamma- tory aifections of the bladder and kidneys, though not fre- quent, are always troublesome. With regard to the sex organs, the difficulties and compli- cations of pregnancy and parturition demand careful study on the part of the stock owner ; and disorders of the udder, tlie treatment of milk fever, and the management of new- born calves are subjects with which every one having the care of domestic animals should make himself accjuainted. Another and important topic, which comes appropriately in this connection, is the eliect on the health of stock of breeding in-and-in. As a predisposing cause to certain very dangerous diseases, it has not received in the United States, at least, the attention it should have. The ill effects of close breeding are seen less in the horse, than in cattle and sheep. In cattle the extremities become delicate, the hair smooth and fine, the ears thin, and the general sensitiveness increased. The animal becomes more subject to various diseases, especially of the lungs, and to wl.at are called " clayers " in the throat. The English herd books give instances where once famous herds have de- 26 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. generated and become extinct by persistent in-and-in breed- ing. In sheep the eiFects are to produce fine and delicate ex- tremities, to bare the head of wool, ana to render the ears thin and red. The animal becomes very susceptible to cold, and uncommonly subject to such diseases as flukes and foot rot. THE EEPRODUCTIYE ACTS. In regard to the development of the reproductive powers, the domestic animals differ widely. The mare begins to breed at four years of age and carries her young 340 days from the time of conception to its natu- ral delivery. She may safely be worked to within two weeks of that time, but should have rest for three or four weeks afterwards. The foal should be weaned at five or six months of age. The youngest age at which the heifer should be put to the bull is laid down by the best English breeders at one year and eight months. She carries her young the same length of time as the human female, to wit, about nine months. The most favorable period for calving is in the spring. For five or six weeks previous to its occurrence her milk should be dried, and during the whole period of gestation, she should be underfed rather than overfed, too rich diet being a very common cause of abortion. The calf should have nothing but the teat for three or four weeks, when it may begin with skimmed milk, etc. Both rams and ewes are ready to breed at fifteen months of age. The ewe carries her young one hundred and fifty- two days. When born, it is often very delicate and requires the attentive care of the shepherd to survive. The sow should breed at one year of age. Her period of gestation is 113 days, and it is a prudent precaution to sepa- Nursing. 27 rate her from the rest of the herd for one week before her farrowing is due. In three weeks from their birth the yomig pigs begin to eat other food than the milk of the sow. CHAPTER II. XTJESING, CARE AXD DIET OF SICK ANIMALS. Separation and Stabling — Disinfection — Rest and Sleep—' Cleansing and Dressing — Position, Slings and Cradles — Food and Drink — Special Diet Preparations. As in the human species, so in the domestic animals, very much of the success of medicines depends upon intelligent nursing ; and the most approved skill of the veterinarian will fail utterly, if the principles of hygiene and sanitation are neglected. These principles we shall now specify. SEPARATION AND STABLING. Whenever an animal is seen to be ailing, it should be sepa- xated from others and placed in a lot or pen apart, or in a stall at a distance from others. This is especially important when contagious diseases are prevalent, but it should be a rule at all times and in c'^ry instance. The stall chosen shoula be roomy, well drained and ven- tilated, free from the odes of decaying animal or vegetable matters, moderately lighted and quiet. The temperature to be preferred is about (;0° or 65° Fah. A loose box is preferable to a stall, when it is to be had, as it allows an animal more liberty of movement, and permits him to assume any position which is most comfortable. The 28 General Principles of Veterinary Iledicine. floor sliould be well littered with clean straw which should be changed as often as it becomes foul with the discharges. Surface gutters are to be preferred in all instances to traps or sink holes, as the former allow the discharges to be rapidly and thoroughly removed. In some systems of ventilation, especially that by a tube or shaft descending from the roof, and that by open doors and vrindows, there is danger, especially at night, of a cur- rent of raw cold air striking the animal, and chilling it to a dangerous degree. Louver windows in the roof or under the eaves, if properly made, are less objectionable; and best of ail is a ventilating shaft which has its opening within a foot or two of the floor, the. current in which is maintained by a revolving ventilator at the top. iS DISINFECTION. Should never be neglected. The walls should be fre- Cjuently whitewashed, and the discharges deodorized by the use of sulphate of iron (copperas), which is a cheap and effi- cient agent for the purpose. A handful may be dissolved in a bucket of water and thrown into the drain. More efficient is the chloride of zinc (butter of zinc), which may be dissolved in water in the proportion of an ounce to one or two gallons. It is very eifective, and not liable to be absorbed. In contagious cases it is of the first importance that the infecting germs be destroyed as soon as they are produced, and before they have had a chance to spread the contagion. The attendants on such cases should not handle or aj)proach healthy animals, when it is possible to avoid it. The sheds or stables occupied by such animals should be fumigated with sulphur two or three times a week. The fumes should not be strong enough to set the animals cough- Disinfecting. 29 ing. If mixed with tar, the gases generated by the com- bustion of the two form the most active atmospheric disin- fectant now known to science. No. 1. Flowers of sulphur, ^ lb. "Wood tar, 1 qt. Mix with tow. This much, burned at one or two spots, will be enough to disinfect a shed one hundred feet long and twenty wide. Carbolic acid in its impure liquid form ia conveniently applied with a brush over the doors, walls and troughs, and may also be applied to the hooves of the animals. Rugs or blankets may be wet with a weak solution of it and hung around, to attract and destroy any disease germs floating in the atmosphere. It also has the advantage of being dis- agreeable to flies, which in the summer time are otherwise sure to attack and annoy the sick animal. Chloride of lime is also a popular disinfectant, but apart from it being generally highly disagreeable to animals, it is not so active as those we have already mentioned. The value of disinfection is no longer open to discussion. It has been shown beyond controversy that over and over asrain such malignant maladies as the foot-and-mouth disease, the cattle plague and black quarter have been stayed in their ravages and prevented from extending by a free, constant and wise use of these potent agents. We add formulas to prepare a number of them besides those already mentioned, so that one may be obtained when another is not convenieut. No. 2. Sulphate of iron, 2 parts. Sulphate of zinc, _ ) ^^^j^ ^ t_ Tan or oak bark in powder, J ^ Mix with tar into balls the size of the fist, and put into drains, cess- pools and sink holes. ]So. 3. r)ry chloride of lime, 2 parts. Burnt alum, 1 part. To be set in shallow dishes about the stables, &c. This is known as " Collins' DLsinfectiug Powder." 30 General Principles of Veterinary 3Iedicine. No. 4. Common salt, 2 lbs. Oil of vitriol, 1 pint. Pour the oil of vitriol slowly in the salt, and muriatic gas ■will be evolved, which is a powerful disinfectant. Recommended by the Cattle Plague Commission. What are known as the " disinfecting powders," which are preparatiojis of carbolic acid by McDougall, Calvert and other makers, are sprinkled daily throughout the extepsive stables in London and Liverpool, at an annual cost of only one dollar and a quarter for each horse. They keep the flies away and the atmosphere pure. REST AXD SLEEP Are great restoratives to the exhausted system. Hence the attendant on the sick animal 5-hould be careful to secure these. Horses are nervous creatures, and cannot sleep sound- ly where there is much noise. When sick, no one should be allowed to walk about on a floor overhead, especially at night ; the stall should be darkened, and the crowd of pas- sing visitors which generally collects, should promptly be dispersed. Especially is this true of all diseases of the brain and ner- vous system ; to such a degree, indeed, that the prescription in tetanus (lockjaw) of an eminent veterinarian is for the owner of the animal to lock the stable door, put the key in his pocket, and not approach the place again for three days. This general rest is to be carried further, to rest of the part which is diseased. If the digestive organs are inflamed the simplest and blandest food and not much of that is to be allow-ed ; pm'gatives are to be withheld as only adding fuel to the flames. If the eye or the foot is inflamed, shading from the light is demanded in the first, and entire freedom from motion in the second case. But when acute disease has Cleanliness. 31 passed away, the gradual use of an affected part generally does good. CLEANING AND DRESSING. A sick animal should be kept scrupulously clean. This is neither an easy nor a pleasant task, especially with cows and cattle suffering from dysentery and other scouring disea- ses. They lie down and obstinately refuse to move even tc get out of the way of their own discharges. They must be well bedded, and gentle but sufficient force be used to wash them thoroughly once a day. When the condition is one of fever, if the body is sponged several times a day with some vinegar added to tepid water, great comfort will result, and the hot and dry condition of the skin be much relieved. Harsh rubbing, scraping, and the currycomb are not the means to use in cleansing a sick animal. Plenty of warm water and the handbrush, followed by the cloth, are what are needed. In feverish diseases and inflammations both in horses and cattle, and in recovery from exhausting attacks of all kinds, a warm rug or two and bandages to the legs help to maintain an even temperature, and combat congestion of the internal organs. In putting on bandages the art is to avoid unequal pres- sure, and yet in giving sufficient to afford gentle support and to distribute equable heat. The bandages are usually of flannel or some other woolen material. They, as well as all other clothing, should always be removed twice daily, the skin washed off and rubbed, and the covering promptly re-applied. Attention to the hair is a very important question in dress- ing, especially in horses. There has been a prejudice, and we believe an entirely unfounded one, in this country against '"clipping" horses. Yet as a measure of comfort in 32 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. health, and improvement in disease, M'e believe it a very desirable procedure. Not to discuss the question we shall simply quote the words of that very eminent authority. Prof. AY. "Williams, Principal of the Veterinary College of Edinburgh. He says : " With reference to the clipping of horses, I am of opinion that it is a great advantage ; they work better after being clipped ; thrive on less food ; are less liable to disease ; and when sick recover in a much shorter time." Frequently, therefore, it is a part of good nursing to clip them. When this is not done, it is often of advantage to cut j(way the hair at the fetlocks, and under the chin, and trim the main and tail. ^lany horses which are " hide bound," out of condition, mangey, and generally run do's^Ti, will re- cover forthwith as soon as they are clipped and closely trimmed. In all instances the feet should be looked to. The shoes should be removed, and a " stopping " of equal jDarts of cow dung and clay be used in horses ; while in cattle it is well to paint the hoofs with tar, or impure carbolic acid. POSITIOlSr, SLINGS AND CEADLES. A horse has generally a nervous fear about lying down when sick, on account of the increased" difficulty he experi- ences in breathing in that condition ; hence he is apt, Avhen he can no longer stand, to give up the struggle in despair and to die when his attack is not necessarily mortal. This is not the case with cows and cattle, as they spend much of their time reclining, and as a rule adopt that position early in their sickness. Of course, when the leg or foot is seriously diseased, the horse finds far greater comfort lying, and then it is bad man- ag(5ment to prevent him doing so. But otherAvise we incline to believe a horse should be encouraged to stand as long as Slings for Horses. 33 possible. It is his natural position in sleep, and it is not nearly so fatiguing to him, even when extremely de- bilitated, as some kind hearted people but of slight anatomi- cal knowledge, have asserted. In fact, no stable is complete in its appointments that is not provided with the apparatus knoAvn as " the sling," in which to support in an erect position a horse unable or un- willing to stand. The use of this alone will cure some cases, and is absolutely indispensable for the successful treatment of many others'. The simplest form of the sling, as recom- mended by Prof. Law, is as follows : Four strong posts are fixed to the ground and roof so as to form an oblong, inside which the four feet of the animal may stand. A strong horizontal bar is then fixed to the two posts on each side, at such a height as to correspond to the middle of the body. Then the animal being walked into the frame, a horizontal bar is fixed between the two front posts so high as to cross ' the lower part of the neck, and another between the two hind posts at about the height of the stifle. Next a strong piece of sailcloth or other firm material strengthened by small ropes, is fixed to the bar on one side by being wound around and nailed to the outer side, and having been passed beneath the body is nailed to the bar on the other side in the same way. It must be just sufficiently far back to clear the fore limbs, and just so loose as to allow the patient to stand over it without pressure or chafing, or to settle himself into it at will. In the male care must be taken to have it narrow enough not to cover the sheath. It is often necessary to allow an animal to become fatigued by standing for a day or two before being put in a sling, otherwise he may be very irritable at first. Care must be taken not to let him feel the sling beneath him until it is ready to be fixed, as many patients will settle down into it the moment it is felt. 3 34 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. Another and in some respects preferable plan, is to take a strong piece of sailcloth of the width of the distance from the sheath to behind the fore limbs, and of a length equal to the girth of the horse. Wrap each end twice around two- inch rollers of wood and nail them securely, and work a two- inch wide buttonhole in each end of cloth just beneath the middle of each roller. A rope and tackle should now be FIG. 1.— A HOKSE IN A SLING. fastened securely to the ceiling of the stable and a f| shaped hook of bar-iron be obtained from the blacksmith, the up- turned ends of which are to be inserted in the buttonholes, and the central portion of which is connected with the pul- ley, and thus the horse raised or lowered at pleasure. Breast straps and breechbands can be added as desired. Diet of Sich Animals. 35 Cradles are used in cases of fracture of the bones of the jaw. Some are elaborately made of steel bands and leather straps ; but any inventive person can devise one from thin and strong strips of wood and firm bandages, the object in all cases being to maintain the fragments of the bones in their natural positions until union has taken place between them. Hatters' felt, stiffened with shellac, and hard rubber in sheets, either of which can be moulded to the part when moistened with hot water, are useful in such cases. FOOD AND DEINZ. In sickness food requires to be given with special care and in an easily digestible form, for in all serious diseases the digestive powers are impaired. In not a few complaints of a feverish character, both of horses and cattle, the ordinary grains and dry fodders are not readily digested, and con- sequently give rise to derangement of the stomach and bowels. Such patients should be fed on mashes, gruels and other soft food, to which milk and eggs can be added when active nutrition is demanded. Food should never be allowed to lie long before a sick animal. If not promptly consumed it should be removed, and in a couple of hours or less time another supply be fur- nished. In most cases of disease, it is better to give small quantities at a time, and have it often repeated. With re- turning appetite, a convalescing animal will often eat more than is good for him, and thus bring about a relapse of the disease. With the horse, it must be remembered that his stomach is small for his size, and that even in health he does not bear hunger nearly so well as man, and requires food as often as every four hours. He also urgently desires a change of diet, neither grain nor clean hay alone fully satisfying his craving. 36 General Principles of Veterinary Uledicine. Unless when affected with diarrhoea, dysentery or diabetes, animals do not injure themselves by taking too much water, but are often rendered uncomfortable and recovery retarded by undue restriction in this direction. A supply of water, cool, clean soft water, should always be within their reach, except in the diseases mentioned, when the quantity must be limited. Small quantities given often will allay thirst much more certainly than large quantities at long intervals. The horse is especially delicate about drinking water, and when sick, neither hard nor dirty nor tepid water should be offered him ; and if the nitre, etc., often added to the water appears distasteful, it should be omitted. In all instances a lump of rock salt should be placed in the feed trough for him to lick at, at his pleasure. SPECIAL DIET PKEPAEATIONS. These, for animals, mostly consist of mild, nutritious or cooling drinks, and mashes. An excellent substance for them is linseed, either in the form of gruel, tea or cake. It is soothing, palatable, easily digested, and moderately laxative. Oat meal, ground corn, barley and bran, are other useful forms of grain suitable for special diet. We add recipes for a few of their preparations. Linseed Tea. No. 5. Bruised linseed, 4 to 6 oz. Boiling water, 1 gallon. Simmer for two hours, strain and add a few spoonfuls of ^aolasses or honey. Linseed Mash. No. 6. Linseed, 2 qts. Sugar, 2 oz. Boiling water, 6 qta. Simmer for several hours on a slow fire. Special Diet Receipts. 37 Barley Water. No. 7. Barley, 1 lb. Water, 2 galls. Boil to six quarts, strain, and add a teacupful of molasses. Malt Mash. No. 8. Ground malt, 1 peck. Boiling water, Ij gall. Stir frequently, and give when milk warm. This is a nutritious mash, valuable in aebility. Bran Mash. No. 9. Bran, | peck. Boiling water, enough to scald it thoroughly. Stir and give when milk warm. Softening and laxative. Oatmeal Oruel. No. 10. Oatmeal, Water, each, J pint. Mix well together, then add to one gallon of boiling water, and boil for a few minutes. No. 11. Fresh eggs, 4. Fresh milk, 2 qts. Beat together, and give milk warm. A concentrated form of nourish- ment in exhausted conditions. 38 Genieral Principles of Veterinary Medicine. CHAPTER III. FOEIMS OF MEDICINES, AND METHODS OF THEIR ADMINIS- TRATION. List of Forms and 3Iethods — Iledication by the Mouth — In- jections into the Nose — Medication by the Rectum and Vagina — Medication by the Blood-vessels — External Methods of 3Iedication — Weights and Pleasures, and their Domestic Equivalents. Medicines can be conveniently administered to the lower animals by a number of different methods, which may be classified into internal and external, as follows : Internal 3Iethods. 1. By the mouth or nostrils, in the form of Balls or boluses. Powders. Drenches, draughts or drinks. Vapors, sprays and fumes. Snuffs. 2. By the rectum or vagina, in the form of Injections, clysters or enemas. Suppositories. 3. By the blood-vessels, in the form of Subcutaneous or hypodermic injections. Injections into veins. External Methods. In the forms of Lotions and liniments. Poultices and fomentations. Ointments, plasters and charges. Medication hy the Mouth or Nostrils. 39 MEDICATIO]Sr BY THE MOUTH OR NOSTRILS. A ball or bolus is made by mixing the medicine to be given with linseed meal, molasses or soap, to bring the mass to a consistency of a thick paste, and then rolling it out in the shape of a small cylinder, about two inches long by a half or three-quarters thick. These can be wrapped in oiled paper or coated with sugar or gum. For horses this is the most common and handy method of giving medicine. What is called " common mass " is a mixture of equal parts of linseed and molasses, and is much used for giving a proper consistence to other drugs. The ball may be administered either with the aid of the balling iron or with the fingers, and the latter plan is gene- rally preferable. The operation is as follows : — The ball is held by one end in the right hand between the thumb, which supports it below, and the fingers above, the FIG 2. — MODE OF ADMINISTERINa A BALL BY THE HAND. hand being drawn together and rounded as much as possible. The horse's tongue is gently drawn out a little way by the 40 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. left hand, and the ball passed rapidly along the roof of the mouth, and dropped on the back of tlie tongue. The hand is quickly withdrawn, the tongue returned to the mouth, the jaws closed and the head for a couple of minutes held slight- ly elevated, and the side of the neck watched to see the ball swallowed and pass down the throat. In performing this operation it is well to observe the fol- lowing rules : — 1. Take the horse out of his stall, and let him have a halter on, held by an assistant. 2. Stand on the off side of the horse's head, and be sure J hold the tongue so that in any movement the horse may make, you have a support for the hand against the lower jaw. 3. Do not pull on the tongue, and let your movements be quiet but rapid. With vicious horses, those with small and narrow mouths, and in certain diseases, as lockjaw and mad staggers, balling irons have been devised, by which the mouth is kept open, PIG. 3. — SIMPLE FOBM OP A BALLING lEOK. and the ball can be given with safety. The above is a simple form which can readily be made of iron by any black- smith, of size to suit. The ball is sometimes fastened loosely to the end of a small stick, and thus carried to the back part of the tongue. Cfiv'ng Medicines by the Mouth. 41 Vapors, Sprays, and Fumes are forms of medicines drawn in with the breath. They are easy of administration, and of much wider use than most veterinarians take advantage of. Among them, the ancesthetics, chloroform and ether, take the first rank. A sponge in a loose net may be fastened over the head of the animal, the mouth having previously been muz- zled, and the anaesthetic poured on the spoLge ; or it may be simply held to the nose. In many diseases of the throat and windpipe, as catarrh, sore throat and strangles, steam, either pure, or from water containing vinegar, laudanum, belladonna, sulphurous acid, and the like, will give great and prompt relief. The steam is readily evolved from a well made hot bran mash placed in a roomy nose bag ; or the head of the animal may be held over a bucket of hot water, plain or medicated, from which the steam is driven off by plunging a hot iron into it at short intervals. Vapors can readily be produced in any liquid substance by pLcing it in what is called an atomizer. The most conven- ient of these is the form worked by the hand called the " hand ball atomizer." For diseases of the nostrils, mouth and throat this is a valuable instrument. For disinfecting purposes and for treating the lining membrane of the breathing organs, inhalations of smokes and gases are of service. J'lowers of sulphur on hot coals will soon fill a closed stable with sulphurous acid, a medical and disinfecting agent of great power ; burning tar is asserted by many to give off fumes very beneficial in chronic cough ; chloride of lime evolves an odorous gas of value in contagious diseases, and which keeps away flies and mosquitoes. Snuffs are used to bring on violent expulsion of the secre- tions of the nostrils, thus clearing the air passages, or as a local application to diseases of the inner surface of the nose. There is a small apparatus used to throw them up, consisting 42 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. of a tube and a hollow rubber ball, by pressure on which the powder is forcibly driven up the nostrils or down the throat. But a hollow reed charged with the powder w^ith a piece of rubber tubing and mouthpiece, blown forcibly by the oper- ator, will answer quite as well. MEDICATION BY THE RECTUM OE VAGINA. Injections into the rectum are frequently used in animals for constipation, piles, colic, and whenever the object is to keep the bowels in order. Their use will often take the place of purgative medicines given by the mouth. In thread worms they are the only measures worth resorting to. When tepid and with the addition of laudanum or belladonna they will relieve irritation of the kidneys, bowels and womb. After giving birth, mares and cows are frequently benefitted by having the vagina washed out with a mild disinfectant, as a weak solution of permanganate of potash or sulphurous acid. When intended to be retained and absorbed, injections in the horse and ox should not exceed two or three pints ; but when the object is to produce evacuation of the bowels, tliree or four times this amoimt may be used. In case of obstinate obstruction of the bowels very large injections with an extra long tube are required, and are generally successful, if com- menced early. Quite a variety of apparatus has been invented to give in- jections. The ordinary barrel syringe is often used. The ball syringe is more convenient, as it saves all j)umping and refilling. Probably better than all is the " Fountain Syringe," which works by the force of gravity. An open rubber bag, holding half a gallon, may be suspended several feet above the animal's back ; from this a half-inch tube of rubber or leather, the end of which is well oiled and inserted into the rectum, conveys the fluid into the gut without any exertion Giving Medicines by InjectioTis. 43 and in any desired quantity. It is a mistake to suppose any force is required. The fluid will fall by the force of gravity, and as the intestinal canal is in animals when standing, lower than the outer opening of the gut, the injection will slowly but surely penetrate without the use of force. Another useful instrument on the same plan is Professor Gamgee's Funnel. It consists of a straight metallic tube, 12 inches long, tapered and rounded oif at one end, bent at a right angle at the opposite extremity, which supports a broad funnel about 6 inches deep and 7 in its greatest diameter. Its extremity should be oiled and introduced into the rectum, and the fluid poured into the funnel. The injection may be repeated every quarter of an hour until relief is experienced. FIG. 4. — PKOP. gamgee's FUNNEti FOB INJECTION". Suppositories, Almost all medicines may be given to animals in the same doses, by the rectum as by the mouth. They may be made in a solid form, something like a ball, by means of soap, lard, or starch, and are then called sup- positories. A cylinder of soap introduced into the rectum of young foals and calves encourages the action of the bowels and ducts more promptly than a purge. Supposi- tories may be made with disinfectants and introduced into 44 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. the vagina of cows after calving to purify the discharges and lessen the danger of puerperal fever. MEDICATIONS BY THE BLOOD-VESSELS. The most safe and convenient j)lan to introduce medicines into the system is by the hypodermic syringe. This is a small syringe, holding a few teaspoonfuls, with a long needle-like point, through which a delicate canal is pierced. THE HYPODEKMIC SYKINGE. This has been used extensively for many years in human patients, and is even better adapted to animals, on accoimt of the difficulty of forcing them to take remedies, and the more prompt and certain action of the subcutaneous method. Of course, very concentrated forms of medicines are used, as but a few drops or a half teaspoonful are thrown by the syringe at a time. But modern chemistry offers such potent and intense preparations that this is no objection. In giving a hypodermic injection it is not very important what part of the animal we choose, though the general rule is to select a point near the seat of disease. It is best to shave or clip the hair for a space of a few inches; next, pinching up the skin a slight cut is made in one end of the little ridge thus elevated and the nozzle of the syringe in- serted and pushed its full length, parallel to the surface, in tlie loose tissue beneath the ridge; then it is withdrawn half way and the contents of the syringe thrown slowly and Injections and Lotions. 45 steadily into the canal thus made; finally the syringe is withdrawn, and the finger held for a minute over the wound to prevent the fluid escaping. This slight and almost pain- less operation can after a little practice be perfoftned with each ease, that it cannot but become a favorite method of administration. We shall give the doses and preparations called for in many disease, by this plan. Injections into the veins have been at times employed with success. The jugular vein, which is easily accessible in all animals, underneath the skin at the upper part of the neck, is the one selected by preference. It is opened with a com- mon fleam, and the liquid injected with a syringe. Only small quantities can be used in this manner. They should be well strained and clear, and warmed to the temperature of the blood, which is 98 '^ Fah. Milk and the blood of healthy animals can be thrown into the veins of weak and exhausted ones, and often the system is much benefitted. But beyond this, the use of intra- venous injections is likely to be limited. EXTERNAL METHODS. Lotions are fluid preparations generally made up extempo- raneously and used for washing or bathing the part. For bruises and sprains cooling lotions are prepared with nitre, sal ammoniac and water, vinegar and water, dilute alcohol or simple cold water. Astringent lotions containing tannic acid, sugar of lead, etc., are valuable in moist skin diseases. Anodyne lotions relieve heat and pain in inflammation ; and inflamed eyes are treated with cool or slightly astringent lotions. When the fluid is used for rubbing on the part, it is called a liniment or embrocation. These are very extensively em- ployed in veterinary medicine for chronic swellings, painful 46 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. joints and muscles, for dispersing tumors, and stimulating internal organs. Poultices are soft and moist applications, intended to soothe, soften and relax the surfaces to which they are ap- plied. They may be cold or hot, and may be either plain or medicated. Hot poultices are commonly made of linseed meal, bran or hot mush, with a sufficiency of boiling water to bring them to a suitable consistence. Hot poultices encourage suppuration and should not be applied to fresh wounds. Cold poultices are made m the same way as hot poultices, and allowed to grow cold. Powders are generally mixed with the animal's food or stirred in gruel or soft feed. But unless agreeable to the taste they will be refused in this form. When small in quantity they may be dropped on the tongue. Most reme- dies can be obtained in this form, and it is for tasteless or pleasant ones the most convenient form in which to admin- ister them. Their effect is as a rule not so prompt as when given in solution. Drenclies, Drafts or Drinks. All varieties of liquid medi- cines may be administered by these methods. When taste- less or palateable to the animal they may be mixed with its ordinary beverage, w^ater or milk, as the case may be. When such is not tlie case they must be poured down the throat, constituting what farmers call a drench. The quantity so administered at a time should not be too great; for a horse, one to two pints, for an ox, one to two quarts, for a sheep or pig half a pint, are the proper amounts. The instrument often used is a strong glass bottle; but one made of block tin, and flattened, is safer. On Drenching Horses. 47 Best of all is the old-fashioned drenehing-horn, when one has had a little practice with it, and knows how to manage it. The most desirable shape is one in which the point of the horn turns downward, while the large end has an oblique opening turned in the upward direction, as in this figure : FIG. 6. — THE BEST SHAPE OF A DRENCHING HORN. Drenches ought always to be thoroughly mixed and well- shaken before being given, and if a violent fit of coughing comes on during their administration, they should be sus- pended and the animal set free for a few minutes. We shall now proceed to give special directions for drench- ing various animals, adopting as our guide that able veteri- narian, Prof. John Gamgee. EtTLES FOR DRENCHING A HORSE. As regards the process of exhibiting a drench to a horse, it is not always well understood; and hence serious and fatal consequences have resulted from the exhibition of remedies in the liquid form. The rules to observe are : First, Hold the horse's head up at a moderate height, so that the line of the face is horizontal. Secondly, Secure the tongue to prevent the lapping out of the liquid, but allow of sufficient movement of lips, tongue, cheeks, and jaws, so as not to interfere with the first act of swallomng. To draw the tongue forcibly outwards is very 48 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. injudicious, as if the tongue be stretched it does not aid in pressing back the fluid, which gravitates as the tongue is pulled upon, and the larynx and pharynx advance; — the animal may thus be choked. FIG. 7. — HOLDING A HOKSE FOR DRENCHING. Thirdly, If an animal makes an effort to cough, rather lose the draught than risk the danger of choking, which so readily occurs if fluid be suddenly thrown over the tongue. Fourthly, Entice efforts of swallowing, should the horse On Drenching Horses and Oxen. 49 obstinately and artfully retain the liquid in his mouth. This is effected by rubbing the throat, and exerting pressure in the space between the lower jaw bones. The methods of holding horses during the exhibition of a draught are various, but the most important ones are three. In the first place, by lopes and pulleys a horse's head is pulled up from a beam or other high object in a stable or shed. This is very objectionable, especially in a vicious horse ; and it does not answer better than the second manner of introduciug a rope noose over the upper jaw. This noose is attached to a stick, or slipped over a stable-fork prong (see Fig. 7) ; and a man can then hold up the head of the heaviest horse and follow him in his movements. It requires management. In Fig. 8 the third manner of holding a horse's head up and exhibiting a drench is represented. It is the most simple and useful method. It only requires one person, who holds the tongue, places his thumb round the lower jaw, and with his fingers causes the horse to open his mouth whilst the draught is poured out of the horn with the right hand. In cases of lock-jaw or tetanus, it is difficult to exhibit even fluid medicines to horses. There are two useful meth- ods, however, to accomplish this. The first is by the intro- duction of a tube into the gullet through the mouth; and the second is by pouring or pumping the fluid through the nose. The objections to the latter procedure are not so weighty as at first sight may appear, provided the fluid is a perfect solution, and poured down the inferior or posterior channel of the nostril with care. EULES FOE GIVING DEENCHES TO THE OX. The horn should always be used. The manner of hold- ing the horn, of securing the animal, and giving the drench, is clearly represented in Fig. 9. 4 50 General ^Principles of Veterinary 3Iedicine. The chief points to attend to are — (a) not. to irritate the animal ; (6) always to attempt the operation from the right side ; (c) seize hold of the upper jaw by passing the left hand over the head ; and bend the latter far round to the right ; FIG. 8. — ^HOLDING A HOESE FOR DKENCHING. this simple contrivance very eifectually tames or disarms even a vicious bull, ox, or cow; (d) the operator should stand well with his back against the animal's shoulder, propping him- IIoio to Drench Cattle. 51 self up with the right leg ; to do this the animal should, especially if awkward, be against a wall on its left side. An incautious person may be severely bruised and thrown into the manger by proceeding up to the head of a cow, not get- ting full command of the animal, and presenting his back to FIG. 9. — DRENCHING AN OX. its hind extremities, with which an ox can strike effectually forwards. Sometimes the organs of swallowing are paralysed in cat- tle, as in cases of parturient apoplexy ; at other times there are foreign substances impacted in the gullet. With the 52 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. view of displacing the foreign object in the one instance, and of introducing medicines in the fluid state in the stomach under any emergency, a hollow probang may be used. The fluids may also be forced into the stomach by the pumping action of a syringe. The probang is guided through the centre of the moutn by a gag. We give the drawing of two forms. Fig. 10 is probably the best. FIG. 10. — AX OX GAG. The advantage it has over the common gag is, that it is tied by a rope to the mouth, and then, in virtue of its shape, it is a more complete guide to the probang than the instru- ment represented at Fig. 10. The latter is the common gag, to be held in the animal's mouth by an assistant, whilst the operator uses the probang. FIG. 11. — AN ox GAG. As the first stomach of ruminants is very capacious and lies flat against the left side of the belly, an expedient has The Use of Trochars. 53 been adopted of puncturing the stomach to evacuate it, or to introduce into it medicinal agents. The stomach is punc- tured by trochars, such as are represented by Figs. 12 and 12. The first has a cylindrical canula and stilet, the canula being somewhat less than a thu'd of an inch in diameter, and three and a-half inches in length. The one represented by Fig. 13 is flattened, and the canula half-an-inch in its greatest width, and four and a-half inches in length. riG. 12. — A TROCHAE. FIG. 13. — A TROCHAE. These trochars are used in the followino: manner: — A spot is chosen midway between the last rib and the lower part of the haunch bone, and about eight or nine inches below the bony knobs of the backbone of the cow ; a small incision is made through the skin with a lancet or bistoiu-y, and then the trochar is pushed with sufficient force and impulse at once to penetrate the walls of the belly and rumen. INJECTION OF FLUIDS INTO THE NOSE. Fluids are sometimes poured into the nose that they may be swallowed ; but usually the internal exhibition of reme- edies by the nose is effected by means of a stomach-pump, with a long flexible tuble. The practice is an objectionable one, but may, under certain circumstances, be absolutely indispensable. The introduction of liquids into the nostrils to exert a 54 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. curative influence on its lining membrane is a more com- mon practice, and attended with much good. The old method of performing this operation is simply to use a syringe, or to elevate the head and pour lotions, etc., into the nose. Professor Rey has adopted a very simple and satisfactory procedure. It consists in causing the fluid to rise in each nostril by atmospheric pressure, and when the one division of the nose is thus filled, the liquid passes over, and is seen to flow out at the ojjposite nostril. In this way the liquid most effectually touches every part of the membrane, and a mild solution of sulphate of zinc or copper, and other seda- tive, astringent, or antiseptic lotion, may be brought in con- tact with the suppurating or ulcered surface. The instru- ment which Professor Rey emjiloys for this purpose is drawn at Fig. 14. The long tube is fifteen • inches in length, and one and a-half inches in diameter, expanding and funnel- shaped above, where the broadest part is two inches wide. FIG. 14.--TUEE FOR WASHING THE KOSTEILS. The short arm is five inches in length, and the aperture two- thirds of an inch in diameter. Over the short arm is passed a closely-fitting leather ring, four and a-half inches in diam- eter. This serves as the surface over which, and round the short arm, wet tow may be adapted, so that, on introducing the small tube in the nostril, the latter is compressed care- fully on the tow; at the same time fluid is poured into the funnel, and rises in the nasaj chamber. If the horse's head be bent in, and held as much as possible in a perpeu- Giving Medicines by the Nose. 55 dicular position, the lotion will pass out at the opposite nos- tril. We sometimes have a little difficulty in performing this maneuvre with aw^kward horses, but by quiet means they are soon accustomed to the operation. Some persons advocate twitching ; occasionally the ear may be twitched ; the animals sometimes require to be blindfolded, but at others it is best to let them see what is being done ; and most frequently not the slightest trouble attends the injection. It is an invaluable method of using remedies in the treatment of diseases of the nose. Fomentations are applied by wrapping the part to be treated in flannel bandages or horse cloths, and keeping these wrappings constantly wet with the liquid employed. This may be simple water, cold or hot, or mixed with vine- gar, laudanum, an antiseptic, or any other appropriate reme- dy. The wrap should be covered with a layer of rubber cloth or oil cloth to retain the moisture. For small surfa- ces, a sponge or a soft piece of rag, tow, lint or oakum is appropriate. They are usually applied to cleanse and soothe irritable wounds ; to relieve external or superficial inflammation ; and to reduce internal inflammation as in pleurisy, pneumonia or acute kidney disease. In ordinary use they are apt to be withdrawn before they have done much good. To obtain their full benefits they should be continued several hours, fresh supplies of the liquid being added as often as the tem- perature of the cloths fall or they begin to dry. A very serviceable and convenient method of fomenting is to take a sheep-skin with j)lenty of wool on it, wring it out in hot water and apply it to the part. After the opera- tion is finished, the parts should be rubbed dry and well clothed, in order to prevent the rapid fall of temperature and consequent chill, which otherwise is liable to occur. A* 56 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. a further means of guarding against this, the fomented sur- faces may have a light dressing of mustard rubbed into them. Ointments are prepared by mixing the drug to be used with lard, butter, or cerate, or what is far better, the petro- leum product called petroleum ointment, cosmoline or vaseline. This substance never becomes rancid, has no unpleasant odor, and by adding wax or parafine can be made of any desired thickness. Ointments are of especial use in diseases of the skin and hair, though as their ingre- dients can be absorbed by the skin, they are sometimes employed to introduce medicines into the system. Plasters are solid adhesive substances usually containing litharge, with resin, wax, soap, tar or pitch. They are not very useful in veterinary practice, and when employed it is usually in the form of charges. These are where the ingre- dients of the plaster are melted or poured directly on the skin. They are then covered with ravelled tow or lint, and confined by a linen or leathern bandage. In former times this was a popular practice with farriers, but has gone some- what out of date. They are well adapted as a dressing to slow Inflammations, particular of the joints, ligaments, tendons or feet. They are even more useful in joint affections in cattle than in horses, and sometimes benefit such cases when other means have failed. They are, however, often difficult to apply and keep upon the part, and for this reason can generally be superseded by water dressings, lotions and fomentations. WEIGHTS AND MEASUEES. The weights and measures used by veterinarians are the apothecaries' weight and wine measure. Weights and Measures. 57 apothecaries' weight. 60 grains = 1 drachm. 8 drachms = 1 ounce. 16 omices = 1 pound. WINE MEASURE. 60 drops = 1 drachm. 8 drachms = 1 ounce. 16 ounces = 1 pint. 8 pints = 1 gallon. For nearly all practical purposes, quantities of fluids may be measured in familiar domestic utensils to correspond to the above table, as follows: 60 drops = 1 teaspoonful = 1 drachm. 4 teaspoonfuls = 1 tablespoonful = i ounce. 2 tablespoonfuls = 1 ounce. 1 wineglassful = 2 ounces. 1 teacupful = 4 ounces. 1 tumblerful = J pint. I tincupful = 1 pint. As a familiar manner of estimating weights in dry measure, we may say A handful of linseed, aniseed, etc. = 2 ounces. " dried leaves = 1 ounce. A hen's Q.gg ^^^ 2 ounces. Three silver half-dollars = 1 ounce. By the use of these familiar standards, it will nearly always be practicable to obtain all the accuracy needed in giving medicine to the lower animals. 58 General Principles of Yeterinary Medicine. CHAPTER lY. VBTEEINARY SUEGICAL. INSTRUMEXTS AND MINOR SURGICAL OPERATIONS. The Veterinary Pochet Case and its Contents — Preparations for Operating — Bleeding — Setons — Filing — Sutures — Operations on the Teeth — Blistering. Every stock owner who would qualify himself to take proper care of the animals he possesses, should provide him- self with a small pocket case of veterinary surgical instru- ments, which he should keep always sharp and clean, and use for their intended purpose, and no other. What such a case should contain, and the uses of each instrument, we shall now explain. In doing so, we shall preface it with the remark that our endeavor will be to mention only the most important instruments, and those in the use of which any intelligent man can qualify himself by a very moderate practice on dead animals — a form of education we earnestly recommend. "We have taken some pains to select, with the aid of the advice of practical men in this department, a "Stock Owner's Pocket Veterinary Case", which is represented in the cut on the following page. It contains nine different instruments, sufficient in number and variety for nearly all the lesser operations which an intelligent owner, not a professed sur- geon, would be called upon to perform. The instruments and their uses are as follows: 1. A blunt pointed 6 isfoit?-^/, slightly curved, for operations under the skin, in cavities, etc. 2. A thumb lancet. This form is safer than the ordinary spring lancet, and much superior to the old-fashioned Jieam, Stock Ovmer's Pocket Veterinary Case. 59 FIG. 15. — STOCK owner's POCKET VETERINAKY CASE. The above cut represents a convenient pocket case of Morocco or Rus- sia leather, containing the instruments must essential in the performance of minor surgical operations on animals. The case is represented unfol- ded, and the instruments are displayed in the following orddr, from above downwards : A blunt pointed bistoury. A thumb lancet. A s{)ring forceps. Ail aneurism needle. A silver probe. A frog knife. A curved scissors. A bistoury. A setou needle. 60 General Principles of Veterinary 3Iedicine. now almost obsolete. The exact depth and length of the cut can best be judged by the ordinary thumb lancet. 3. A pair of forceps, for dressing wounds, catching arteries for tying, removing foreign bodies, etc. 4. A long blunt pointed needle, called an aneurismal needle, which can be used as a probe, and for small setons, etc. 5. A silver pjrohe, blunt at one end, sharp at the other for exploring \vounds. 6. A frog knife, having a narrow straight blade, curved into a strong sharp hook at the end ; very useful in cleaning hoofs, etc. 7. A pair of curved scissors, for trimming the edges of wounds, cutting hair, etc. •8. A straight broad sccdpel, for opening abscesses, cas- trating, etc. 9. A seton needle, for introducing tapes, etc. In addition to these the case contains half a dozen surgical needles and thread, and two inside pockets for paper,etc. Such a set of instruments, made in the best manner and furnished in a neat and durable morocco case, should be bought for ten dollars; and in order that they may be obtained of good quality and with little trouble, we have arranged with the publishers of this work that they shall supply them at the above price, when requested. PREPARATIONS FOR OPERATING. Fastening the Animal. — In performing operations on ani- mals, it is of the first importance, both for the safety of the operator and the successful achievement of his task, that the patient be firmly secured. Usually this can conveniently be done by " casting " or throwing the animal by means of a hobble attached to all four feet, which are then drawn rapidly together by assist- Ancestheties. 61 ants, and the horse pushed over on his side. A single limb can then be loosened and held by a strap around the fetlock in the hands of a reliable man, while another sits on the horse's head. The arrangement called the " trevis " or " break " is a nar- row pen, six feet long and three wide, with stout corner posts and side rails on both sides and one end. The horse is led into it at the oj^en end, which is then closed with a bar. His legs are fastened to each post by broad leather straps ; and he may be suspended to the side pieces by a stout band under the belly. In this position, with his head secured, he can neither bite nor kick. AnSBStheticS. — In most painful operations, when not about the mouth (where the flow of blood might strangulate an un- conscious animal), it is a humane jjrocedure to chloroform the animal. Horses have generally to be cast before the inhala- tion can be aifected. The chloroform should be j^oured on a sponge, a teaspoonful or two at a time, and held to the nos- trils, not, however, continuously, as the vapor of chloroform undiluted with atmospheric air is a fatal poison. The animal should be closely watched, and as soon as unconsciousness is produced the ansesthetlc should be suspended, and renewed from time to time until the operation is complete. Nausea and depression continue usually for some hours afterwards. Should the pulse fail, and the respiration grow shallow and irregular, buckets of cold water must be dashed on the body, and artificial respiration be continued for a time by blowing gently with a pair of bellows into the mouth or nostrils, and alternately pressing upon and releasing the ribs, thus imitating the natural acts of respiration. Pieces of ice inserted into the rectum or vagina act also as powerful restor- atives. Many practitioners use the chloroform pure, and thus em- 62 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. ployed its effects are more rapid ; but they are also more dan- gerous. For that reason we recommend the following anses- thetic mixture in preference, which comes endorsed by high authority after extensive employment : No. 12, Alcohol, 1 oz. Chloroform, 2 oz. Ether, 3 oz. Shake the bottle well on using it. This will be found effective with all sorts of animals, and requires but two or three minutes to overpower with safety ' the struggles of the strongest horse or ox. BLEEDING. So much has been said of late years on the abuse of bleeding, that we might suppose that sound ideas on the subject had penetrated as far as the brain of the ordinary farrier. But we have strong grounds for the belief that this is not the case, and throughout the States it is a very common practice to bleed in diseases of stock far more than there is any reason or safety in doing. There are cases whore prompt and bold bleeding is by common consent the only chance for life, as we shall see in the later pages of this book, so the lancet should still be in every veterinary case, ready for immediate use. In the horse and ox, the jugular vein, which runs promi- nently up the side of the neck, is the one usually chosen from Avhich to draw blood. The blood-vessels of the palate or roof of the mouth are chosen by some, especially in staggers and brain diseases. If the jugular is pressed upon by the finger, a little below the spot selected for the incision, it will in a few moments become distended and prominent. The horse should be blindfolded and a thumb lancet used. Bleeding. 63 The quantity of blood taken depends upon the object in view, but to make any decided impression on an adult animal of either species, at least six or seven quarts should be drawn. When the flow has ceased the two lips of the wound are raised between the fingers, a small common pin run through them and some thread twisted across and over it, to keep it in place. In the sheep, bleeding from the jugular vein is also most efficient. But some veterinarians prefer the angular or cheek vein. This is to be found in the cheek, at a spot equi- distant from the eye and the mouth, just below the bony tubercle which marks the insertion of the fourth tooth into the upper jaw. The incision should be made from below upwards, half an inch below the middle of the tubercle. Others again prefer the eye vein. To divide this the point of a knife is inserted near the lower extremity of the pouch below the eye ; the point is pressed downward and a cut made inward toward the middle of the face. In swine, bleeding is usually performed in an off-hand way, by cutting off the end of the ear or the lail. Pigs are such unmanageable patients, that it is both difficult and dangerous to attempt refinements of treatment with them. When 23racticable, however, it is neater to turn the ear back and by pressing firmly on its base with the thumb, to bring into prominence some of the veins, which may then be cut across. Or a cord can be tied tightly around the fore leg above the knee, when the brachial vein will be seen to fill up, and can readily be lanced. This vein is on the inside of the leg, and should be opened about an inch above the knee. SETONS. These are taj)es, fine wires or threads, which are passed underneath the skin, entering at one point and emerging at 64 General Principles of Veterinary Ilcdicine. another, the ends knotted together to prevent dropping out. They are usually smeared with an irritant salve, and turned every day or two, so as to keep up a constant irritation and discharge from the part. The seton needle used for their in- troduction is about six inches long. They act very satisfactorily in some cases of bone disease, but where the lameness is owing to strained sinews or liga- ments they are out of place, as they leave additional thicken- ing. They are also valuable in healing old fistulas, being inserted the whole length of the canal, and setting up a new and healthy inflammation in its sides. As appropriate oint- ments, the following are recommended for smearing the seton : No. 13. Powdered cantharides, 1 part. Oil of turpentine, Canada Balsam, of each, 8 parts. Digest the cantharides and turpentine together and add the balsam. No. 14. Powdered white hellebore, 1 part. Lard, 8 parts. Mix at a gentle heat. No. 15. Citrine ointment, 3 parts. Oil of turpentine, 1 part. Mis. Or either of the ingredients in this last formula alone will answer very well. FIRING. The hot iron or the actual cautery is a very useful agent in veterinary practice, and should not be dispensed wdth or con- demned on mistaken notions of tenderness. In certain dis- eases it cannot be successfully replaced by any other form of counter irritation. It must of course be used with discretion, but any one with experience must have seen it remove pain very rapidly when blisters, etc., have failed to do so. In bone diseases and in many cases of chronic lameness, it is of great benefit. Firing. 65 The iron should be used at a full red or white heat, and the part touched as lightly as possible, so that a distinct im- pression is made. More than one leg should not be fired at one time. Various forms of cauteries or " firing irons " are used. Those with a narrow edge, about as thick as a dime, so that the firing may be performed in parallel lines across the limbs are preferable, as leaving the least blemish. The same may be said in favor of Prof. Williams' iron for ** pyro-punc- ture," which leaves hardly any blemish, and makes a deep impression on the structure. It is represented in the follow- ing engraving : — FIG. 16. — PBOF. "WILLiIAMS' lEON FOB " PYKO-PUNCTUEE." As in blistering, the hair should be closely shaved before the iron is applied ; and the operator is wise to convince him- self that the animal is securely fastened before the procedure begins. On the day after the firing, the part should be smeared with neat's foot or other bland oil, and this repeated daily until the swelling subsides. A rest of several months is ad- vised after the operation, as if the animal is put to work too soon the disease will most probably return, and the pain have been needless. A method of firing is adopted by some veterinarians which obviates the objections made to the process, and is often very efiective. It is based on the fact that the boiling point of fat is about three times that of boiling water, and that by applying boiling fat to the part at a temperature of say 600° 66 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. Fahrenheit, a powerful impression is made on the vessels without blemishing. A flat or slightly hollowed iron is heated to a dull red heat. A piece of bacon rind with a little of the fat attached to it, is then placed on the spavin or tumor which is to be dis- persed. The iron is then applied upon the bacon rind, and firmly held there for the space of two or three minutes, and afterwards more lightly applied, until the rind is dried or burned. This may be repeated several times at intervals of two or three days, and it will be found to exercise a potent, stimulating influence, and leave no scar. SUTURES OR STITCHES. When the edges of a wound or incision are properly cleansed and the bleeding checked, they are brought together and maintained in their proper and natural position by stitches or sutures. Of these there are two varieties which are prin- cipally used in domestic veterinary surgery. They are known as the " interrupted suture" and the " twisted suture." 1. 1l\iq interrupted suture is, one in which the needle is carried through the two edges of the wound, and the thread no. 17. — THE IKTKKKUPTED SUTXTEE. then cut, leaving an end about three inches long on each side of the cut. These are then brought together and tied, and the ends cut off close to the wound, as illustrated in Fig. 17. Kinds of Sutures. 67 2. In the twisted suture a needle is not used, but a strong pin is run through each edge of the cut, and a thread or fine •wire is twisted across the two protruding ends of the pin, so that the edges of the wound are firmly held in place ; as seen in Fig. 18. no. 18. — THE TWISTED StTTUBE. After a wound is closed with sutures, it should be dressed with a plaster, ointment or a bandage, so as to prevent the thread or pins from tearing out ; and it is proper to remove them in four or five days, to prevent blemishing. OPEEATIONS ON THE TEETH. The teeth of horses require frequent attention at the hands of the veterinarian or of the owner, if he would keep his animals in good condition. If the lower incisors become so long as to bruise, or otherwise injure the bars or roof of the mouth, they must be shortened with a rasp. The same instrument is required when it is found that owing to the greater width of the upper row of the molars, a ridge of unworn tooth material is presented on the outer aspect of the upper, and on the inner side of the lower teeth, leading the horse to wound his tongue in masticating, and to grind his food. 68 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. If through irregularity of the teeth some become more prominent than others, they must be filed down ; and as always when a tooth in one jaw is lost,- its fellow in the other jaw tends to grow too long, the rasp is required to file it back from time to time. Extraction of the teeth is required in case of decay. This change is confined to the grinders or molar teeth. The first, second, and third molars may be withdrawn by the forceps ; but the fourth, fifth, and sixth have to be removed by " punching " after trephining the gum. The operation is as follows, and can easily be learned by a little practice on the dead animal : Cast the horse and trephine the gam so as to make the opening to correspond to the fang of the diseased tooth, allowing sufficient space above or below the diseased fang — above, if the operation be in the upper, below, if it be on the bottom jaw — for the introduction of the punch. The punch should be at least an inch in circumference at its point, that it may not cut or split the tooth. Tw^o or three smart but not heavy blows with the hammer will be sufficient to loosen the tooth ; and it may then be re- moved with the forceps or the hand. The cavity should be washed out with a solution of alum, or some carbolic acid water. The cavity will in a few weeks close over. BLISTERING, The application of a blister is a part of the routine treat- ment of the common veterinarian whenever he suspects in- ternal inflammation. It is a pernicious and discreditable prac- tice. Blisters usually do no good whatever in deep seated inflammations, and they not only leave a blemish slow to dis- appear, but they cause the animal a great deal of severe pain and have often brought on strangling and irritation of the bladder. Directions for Blistering. 69 Blisters should be confined to cases where the acutt, in- flammatory symptoms have passed away, and where it is de- sired to cause the absorption of some deposit, or to stimulate the vessels to effect some organic change, as to hasten the opening of an abscess, or the reduction of an enlarged gland. Before a blister is applied the hair should be cut from the part, which should then be washed and dried, and the blister- ing fluid applied with smart friction for several minutes. The blistering ointment preferred by the Edinburgh Veteri- nary College is the following : No. 16. Powdered cantharides, 1 part. Lard heated to 212°, 12 parts. Mix well together and cool. At this strength, the ointment if thoroughly applied will raise a good blister and will never blemish. Most of the ointments are very much stronger than this. That recommended by Mr. Youatt was. No. 17. Powdered cantharides, Powdered resin, each 1 oz. Lard, 4 oz. Melt the lard and resin together and stir in the flies. Another of medium strength is. No. 18. Powdered cantharides, 1 oz. Lard or oil, 6 oz. Melt together. The addition of turpentine, sulphuric acid, arsenic, corro- sive sublimate and the like, should be avoided. They serve no useful purpose, and merely increase the pain needlessly. Blistering plasters are not used in veterinary surgery, but there are preparations called ''sweating blisters" popular 70 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. with some. They are of strong tincture of cantharides made as follows: No. 19. Powdered flies, 1 oz. Alcohol, 1 pint. Steep for two weeks. This is of medium strength, and can be increased in its action by adding a few ounces of solution of ammonia or oil of turpentine. These tinctures rarely raise a full blister, but cause considerble irritation and a watery discharge. In using them it is not essential that the hair be removed ; and they may be applied repeatedly to the same spot without blemishing. Blisters are not much used on cattle, as on them sufficient irritation can generally be produced by mustard and hot water, well rubbed in. A blister while rising causes much irritation, and the animal will always try to rub or bite the blistered part. In the horse this should be prevented by tying the head to the rack, or tying up the tail. On the second day after it has been applied, the part should be fomented with warm water, and dressed with lard, oil or any simple ointment. Sometimes it is desirable to maintain the effect of the blister for some time. This is to be accomplished by dress- ing the part with some more of the blistering ointment diluted to one-half or one-fourth its strength with lard or oil. The following general rules should be observed : 1. Do not blister more than two spots at one time. 2. Do not blister much in hot weather. 3. Always be on your guard against producing strangury, which is easily brought on in some horses. 4. Never blister a highly inflamed part, nor where there are signs of erysipelas or mortification. Signs and Symptoms of Disease. 71 If the blister causes excessive nervous irritability, loss of appetite, or difficulty in watering, wash the blistered surface with warm water containing soft soap ; dress it with sweet oil ; and give the animal a full dose of opium. EOWELS OR ISSUES. A rowel or issue consists in a wound made in the skin with a bistoury or rowel scissors, and kept open by a pledget of tow, lint, or leather, which to increase the counter irrita- tion and discharge, is sometimes smeared with irritant dress- ing. Its actions are similar to that of a seton. The more cultivated veterinary surgeons employ rowels much less than their predecessors ; indeed, it may be said that they are a form of counter irritation which is passing out of fashion, and justly so. They will be rarely recommended in the present work. CHAPTER V. GENERAL RULES FOR RECOGNISING AND DISTINGUISHING DISEASES. The Pulse — The Breathing — The Animal Heat — The Skin and Hair — The Posture — Indications of Pain — Special Sign^ in Cattle — Signs of Diseases of Particular Organs. Any one who would become expert in recognizing diseases in animals, must study them carefully in the healthy state, and make himself thoroughly familiar with their habits, appearance and general physiology. He must practice feel- ing their pulse and the heart, listening to the sounds of their 72 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine, lungs in breathing, and taking their temperature, by feeling the skin and also by using a properly constructed ther- mometer. He should watch the appearances of the eye and tongue, and note the positions assumed when asleep and awake. He should observe the character and frequency of the discharges of the bowels and bladder, and the eagerness of their appetite. For it is in the variations from health in these particulars, that the veterinarian discovers the guides which lead him to the recognition of the particular disease he has to treat. We shall examine each of these items separately, and assure our readers that if they will verify our statements by practice on the living animals, they will soon be in a position to take charge of them when sick, quite as well and often a great deal better than the average farrier, as he is to be found in this country. THE PULSE. The FnlSG differs very much in the domestic animals. In the full grown horse at rest, its beats are about 40 per minute; in the ox, from 50 to 55; and in the sheep and pig, about as in man, that is, averaging 70 to 80 beats in the minute. In calves and colts, and in animals well advanced in years, the pulse increases in health, to about twice these figures; and it is also increased by hot, close stables, full feeding, and the condition of pregnancy. The pulse may be felt wherever a considerable artery passes over a bone. It is usually examined in the horse on the cord which runs across the bone of the lower jaM', just in front of its curved portion; or on the bony ridge which extends upward from the eye; or inside the elbow. In cattle, it is conveniently reached over the middle of the first rib, or beneath the tail. There is a marked difference of force in the pulse of the two species; that of the horse being The Pulse and Breathing. 73 full and rather tense, while in the ox, it is soft and rolling. When the pulse differs materially from these conditions in any direction, it is a sign of disease. If rapid, full and hard, there is high fever or acute inflammation; if rapid, small and weak, there is low fever, loss of blood or weak- ness. If very slow, we may suspect brain disease; if irregular, now fast and in a few seconds slow, we should look for a diseased condition of the heart. In the sheep, the j)ulse is felt by placing the hand on the left side, where the beatings of the heart can be felt; or at about the middle of the inside of the thigh, where the femoral artery passes obliquely across the bone. THE BEEATHING. The Breathing is next in importance. If the ear is ap- plied to the throat of a healthy horse or ox, the air will be heard passing through the windpipe with a regular, steady blowing sound ; if applied to the chest, a soft rustling mur- mur will be heard, like a gentle breeze in the tree tops, caused by the air passing in and out of the fine tubes and vessels of the lungs. But where the lung or throat is diseased, these sounds are very much changed and in many directions, which it is not necessary to dwell on here, but which will at once indicate the presence of something amiss with these important organs. If the fore finger of the left hand is placed firmly on the chest and smartly tapped with the ends of the three first fingers of the right hand, the sound will be noticed to be much more resonant and clear than when the same procedure is practiced on the solid thigh. This is because the lungs are not solid, but are always in health well expanded with air. But in various diseases, as pneumonia and pleurisy, they fill up with fluid and become solid, and then the sound 74 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. given out, by thus percussing them as it is called, is like that on any other solid part of the animals. Hence this is an- other very important indication of disease. By practice on healthy animals, the character and boundaries of these sounds can be learned so closely, that any variation from them will be at once detected, and will sometimes reveal the presence of an unsound condition, when no other means will. The rapidity with which the act of breathing is performed can easily be counted by the heaving of the chest. In health, in the adult horse at rest, it is from eight to twelve times a minute, and in the ox a little faster. Any great increase, without obvious cause, is a positive sign of a diseased con- dition. THE ANIMAL HEAT. The temperature of animals can be ascertained, to a slight extent, by the feel of the skin, the ears, and the legs. A hot, dry skin in a horse generally accompanies a feverish condition. Cold ears and legs are a sign of serious disease. But the only scientific, that is, accurate plan, is to use what is called a " clinical thermometer," that is, one, the bulb of which can be bared and inserted into the rectum. After it has remained there two or three minutes, the mercury will accurately indicate the temperature of the blood. This in health is 98°, and any deviation from this, even of a few degrees, is a certain sign of disease. Those veterinarians who have practiced sufficiently with this instrument to become skilled in its use, declare it invaluable in their business, as affording them grounds for opinions about diseases which no other symptoms could. Thus it has been found that every disease has its own degree, a temperature at which it is either favorable or fatal. For example, if in that sometimes prevalent epidemic among horses, cerebro-spinal meningitis, the thermometer rises as high Symptoms of Disease. 75 as 104°, it is a certaia indication that the horse will shortly die ; while in such a disease as inflammation of the lungs the mercury will register 108° or 109°, and the horse recover. If in gastric or typhoid fever the heat has been 103°, and falls to 100°, and then suddenly rises again to its previous figure, the chances are terribly against the patient, no matter what the other appearances may seem to say. These few ex- amples will serve to show how valuable the instrument may become in the hands of an intelligent person. THE SKIN AND HAIR. The skin in its general feeling and appearance is an im- portant guide to the condition of an animal. A dry, scurfy appearance is a symptom of indigestion, and liability to joint affections. What is called " hide-bound " is a symptom of a general state of poor nutrition, arising from indigestion, im- proper food, worms, or a want of proper exercise. The skin feels stretched and hard, as if too small for the body. The condition known as " staring coat," when the hairs stand out like bristles, is often the only symptom of a low state of health. Whenever an animal is disposed to shiver, with shedding of the coat, when exposed to moderate cold, or with- out such exposure, it is on the edge of some disease. A per- sistently staring coat, without other symptoms of disease, often indicates the approach of an attack of farcy or glanders, and when with this are repeated shivers or chills, we may expec^ the strangles, weed, or other diseases with suppura- tion. When in an attack of disease the skin becomes covered with a cold sweat, the life of the animal is in great danger. THE POSTURE. The position of an animal, its mode of standing and lying down, are all significant. Lying persistently on one side, or 76 General Principles of Veterinary Medicine. obstinately maintaining one position, shows that any other is painful. Horses stand as long as they possibly can, as they breathe much easier in the upright position, and if they once lie down, they soon despair and die. Hence the rule is with a horse to sling him up, in almost all ailments. With cattle it is different, and it is much less important to keep them erect. When animals cannot rise, it may be from weak- ness, or from palsied limbs, or from severe injuries or sprains. INDICATIONS OF PAIIT. The feeling of pain in animals is indicated by their flinch- ing when the painful part is touched; by the care which they take in lying down, walking or standing to " favor" the part, and by the appearance of the eye. Distress and suffer- ing are generally plainly apparent in the faces of sick horses and cattle. SPECOAL SIGNS IN CATTLE. In cattle the horn at its root yields by the sensation it im- parts to the hand a rough idea of the temperature of the blood, and the cowleech generally feels it as the doctor does the pulse, as a part of the indispensable programme of a pro- fessional visit. If the temperature is natural, he concludes there is no fever ; if cold, and the tips of the ears also cold, it is a sign of some serious internal congestion, the blood no longer circulating in natural force through the extremities. The muzzle is another part he takes note of. In ' health this is moist, covered with " dew," as the saying is ; but in disease, especially fever, it is dry, hotter or colder than nat- ural, and sometimes cha'nged in color, paler or injected with blood. By looking at the flanks, the regularity of the res- piration is noted, rapid and irregular heaving there betraying the disturbance of the important function of breathing. In Symptoms of Diseases. 77 ruminants also, the second mastication of the food is among the first of the vital processes to become disturbed in disease. When a cow or an ox " loses the cud/' as it is called by herd- men, that is, ceases to ruminate without apparent cause, there is sure to be a feeling of sickness about the animal which is thus interfering with one of its processes of diges- tion. THE SIGNS OF DISEASES OF PARTICtTLAR OEGANS. There are various plans of classifying diseases, but the one most practically useful is to arrange them with reference to the main organs affected, because by following this plan they are most easily recognized. Hence we have "Local Dis- eases " that are principally located in one or another part of the body, and " General Diseases," which affect all of it. But it must not be forgotten that local diseases, as they in- crease in severity, generally involve the whole system more or less ; and that general diseases may have local signs. By a careful study of what follows, the reader will be able generally to determine with accuracy the seat of disease. L:>cal diseases include 1. Diseases of the brain, spinal cord and nerves. 2. Diseases of the breathing organs (windpipe and lungs). 3. Diseases of the digestive organs (mouth, throat, stom- ach, bowels). 4. Diseases of the heart and blood-vessels. 5. Diseases of the kidneys, bladder and sex organs. The prominent signs by which they can be recognized are as follows : — 1. SigTis of Diseases of the Brain, Spinal Cord and Nerves. When there is unusual dullness and sleepiness, or their opposite, wakefulness and wildness, brain disease may be sus- 78 General Principles of Vetermary Medicine. pected. Palsy, spasms and convulsions point in the same direction. A prominent and swollen condition of both eyes occurs in congestion of the brain ; and a projection of the haw (the winking membrane of the eye) is a sure sign of lockjaw. Snoring or stertorous breathing is a pretty sure symptom of brain disease. 2. Signs of Diseases of the Breazhing Organs. Here cough is the most important symptom. It is moist in catarrh, colds, and other diseases where there is a discharge from the lining membranes of the air passages ; and dry in the first stages of colds, in pleurisy, broken wind, roaring, and when, as occasionally happens, it docs not depend on dis- ease of the breathing organs, but is, as it is called, sympathetic of other complaints, especially indigestion, worms, and liver disease. Rapid, irregular, or difficult breathing is present in most affections of the lungs ; and when the motion of breathing is more visible than usual in the belly, it is a sign that the act is painful, as in pleurisy and rheumatism of the walls of the chest. Running from the nose and mouth is generally associated with this class of complaints. 3. Signs of Diseases of the Digestive Organs. When the appetite is much greater than natural, it is usually a sign of worms, or irritation of the stomach. In diarrhoea, the discharges from the bowels are frequent and watery; in constipation, infrequent, dry and hard. When an animal passes blood, it is generally from dysentery, piles, ulcers in the bowels, or a rupture. Swelling of the belly, unusual discharges of wind, and fits of giddiness, are common in colic and indigestion. Symptoms of Diseases. 79 4. Signs of Diseases of the Heart. These are indicated by violent convulsive beating of the heart, easily perceived by the hand placed behind the left elbow; by a jerking, intermittent, unequal and irregular pulse; by habitually cold ears and legs; by swelling of the legs and the belly ; by difficult breathing, much increased by slight exertion; and by general sluggishness and a ten- dency to lay on fat. If on carefully listening to the sound of the heart, it is found to give forth sounds different from those usual in healthy animals (with which, as we have said, the student must make himself thoroughly familiar), then there need be no further hesitation in pronouncing the pre- sence of heart disease. 5. Signs of Diseases of the Kidneys, Bladder and Sex Organs. Profuse staking, usually accompanied with excessive thirst, is a symptom of diabetes, a very serious disease. Bloody urine, "red water", and "black water", may signify a mechanical injury to the bladder, inflammation of the kid- neys, kidney worms, stone in the bladder, or in cattle, one of those very dangerous diseases called murrains. When the urine cannot be passed, it may be from a stone or a stric- ture; it also occurs in spinal meningitis in horses. Carrying and bearing the young, and the various diseases to which the female is liable, at and after this period, are all of obvious symptoms. This class of maladies has a pecu- liar importance to the stock breeder, as it has been again and again demonstrated that the higher the breed and the more refined the Ijblood — that is, the more costly the animal — the more is it liable to numerous and grave interferences with these acts of reproduction. o X Ixl _l < Q (/) LU O >- _l O PART 11. The Diseases of the Horse. GENEEAL REMAEKS ON THE DISEASES OF THE HOESE. Of all the domesticated animals, the horse is the one whose diseases have received the closest study. Until the present century he might justly have been considered the most really valuable of the lower species. With our im* proved modes of locomotion this is hardly now the case, and the high esteem in which he is yet held arises largely from tradition, the competition of traders and the love of display, rather than his intrinsic worth to man. As he is most highly prized for the qualities of grace and speed in motion, especial attention has been long paid to the prevention and removal of whatever would impair these powers ; and hence we shall have to consider a long list of lamenesses in the horse, which deteriorate his value exceed- ingly, while in other animals they are of little or no import- ance whatever. This list is longer on account of the struc- ture of the horse's leg and foot, which in delicacy and com- plexity stands unsurpassed and probably unrivalled among the wondrous exhibits of comparative anatomy. Another reason for our increased acquaintance with equine diseases is that, as the horse, in this country at least, is not fed for the table, there is no economy in knocking him in the (81) 6 82 Diseases of the Horse. head the moment he shows signs of disease, as we observe various writers on cattle, sheep and swine recommend in re- ference to those animjtls. A dead horse is proverbially of the least possible use. Hence the owner will naturally spare no reasonable pains to keep him alive, as a lame or a sick horse is better than no horse at all. The equine species, in which we include the mule and the ass, differs remarkably from the other herbivorous animals we shall consider, in having but one stomach. The tract of the bowels is enormous ; if spread out, it is estimated they would cover ninety square feet. Like all the herbivora, he responds very slowly to certain medicines. He never vomits, so emetics are useless ; and many purges act on him slowly and irregularly. Saline purges, for instance, as Epsom and Glauber salts, are quite unsuitable, sometimes appearing in- ert, or again acting so violently that they produce inflamma- tion and exhaustion. For this purpose, aloes, especially Barbadoes aloes, on account of their cheapness, are preferred. These, if properly administered, will act in eight or ten hours. Senna, colocynth, buckthorn and other cathartics of value in man have scarcely any such effect on horses. This species is more subject to high inflammatory diseases than the other three which we shall treat. Fevers and mala- dies of a low, typhoid type are comparatively rare in the horse. He is moreover of a courageous, enduring disposition, and will not yield to the attacks of disease as readily as an ox or sheep. Nevertheless, the treatment by bleeding, active purges, tartar emetic and calomel, heretofore promiscuously practised on him, is by no means to be commended ; it be- longs to a past age, and only lingers under the favor of ignorance and prejudice. Not many traces of it will be foimd in the following pages, as what we have to present is not a rSchauff^ of antiquated opinions. General Remarks. 83 Note. — In treating tKe diseases of Horses, we shall at the same time describe those which are common to both Horses, Mules and Cattle ; thus avoiding a useless repetition which would be otherwise necessary when we come to treat of Dis- eases of Cattle. Many complaints are substantially identical, both in symptoms and treatment, in the two species. On the following two pages we have placed in contrast the external and the internal anatomy of the horse. A care- ful study of these diagrams will be found of considerable importance in understanding the descriptions of diseases which will be contained in the pages that follow. The popular names applied to the external forms of the horse are of especial interest to every one who owns such an animal, and they snould be made familiar by reference to the living subject. 84 Diseases of the Horse. FIG. 19. — EXTEKNAIi ANATOMY OF THE H0E8B. 1. Muzzle. 23. Eibs. 2. Nostril. 24, 24. Girth. 3. Forehead. 25. Loin3. 4. Jaw. 26. Croup. 5, Poll. 27. Hip. 6. Crest. 28. Flank. 7. Windpipe. 29. The sheath. 8. Shoulderblade. 30. The root of the tail 9. Point of Shoulder. 31. The hip joint. 10. Breast. 32. The stifle joint. 11. Arm. 33. Lower thigh. 12. Elbow. 34. The quarters. 13. Forearm. 35. The hock. 14. Knee. 36. The point of the hock. 15. Cannon bone. 37. The curb place. 16. Back sinew. 38. The cannon bone. 17. Fetlock, or pastern joint. 39. Back sinew. 18. Coronet. 40. Fetlock, or pastern joint. 19. Hoof. 41. Coronet. 20. Heel. 42. Hoof. 21. Withers. 43. Heel. 22. Back. 44. Spavin place. Internal Ancdomy of tJie Horse. 85 FIG. 20. — INTERNAL ANATOMY OF THE HORSE. 1. The poll or occiput. 2. The lesser brain, cerebellum. 3. The greater brain, cerebrum. 4, The membranes of the nostrils. 5. The tongue. 6. The bones of the neck. 7, 7. The spinal cord. 8. The throat, or pharynx. 9, 9. The gullet, or oesophagus. 10. Entrance of the gullet into the stomach. 11. Exit from the stomach into the bowele. 12. The surface of the diaphragm. 13. The windpipe. 14. The lungs. 15. The heart. a. The stomach. b. The spleen. c. The kidney. d. One side of the womb. e. The rectum, or lower bowel, /. The anus. 9> A, i, k, I. The muscles of the thigli. Diseases of the Horse. 87 CHAPTER I. DISEASES OP THE BRAIN AND NERVOUS SYSTEM. Congestion and Inflammation of the Bj'ain — Phrenitis — Mad, Blind or Sleepy Staggers. Cereb ro-spinal Ileningitis. Convulsive Diseases or Fits — Apoplexy — Epilepsy — Falling Sickness — St. Vitus' Dance or StringhaU. Megrims — Vertigo — Giddiness. Sunstroke. Paralysis or Palsy. Tetanus or Lockjaw. Hydrophobia. CONGESTION AND INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN— PKRENITIS— MAD, BLIND OB SLEEPY STAGGERS. Definition. — A congestiou or over fullness of the blood- vessels of the brain and its envelopes, passing into inflamma-- tion, accompanied with marked effects on the animal's mental condition. Causes. — Exposure to the heat of the sun, blows on the head, suppression of urine, poisoning of various kinds, tumors in the brain, over driving in fat animals, feeding on distillery- slops, the pressure of a tight collar and overloading the stomach. Symptoms. — The most common form of the disease, both in horses and cattle, is that called stomach staggers or sleepy staggers. The animal at first is dull, listless and drowsy. The breathing is generally slower, and more or less snoring ; the pulse also is slower, in the horse from 26 to 30 beats a minute. In walking the animal staggers and seems about to fall. If suddenly disturbed, it looks around excitedly, shivers 88 Diseases of the Horse. and seems frightened. It now and then thrusts its head against the wall of the stable, or rears and elevates its nose in the rack. The eyes are bloodshot and yellowish. As the disease advances, the feet and ears become hot and then cold by turns ; the eyes are fixed ; violent convulsions come on ; the animal totters and sometimes falls ; the sight is lost and the head is struck against anything that comes in the way. Sometimes the tongue lolls out of the mouth, or there is spasm of the muscles of the face, or general palsy. The bowels are usually costive, the water scanty and high colored, and the frenzy in fits of greater or less severity. Treatment.-^In the early stages, if the pulse is full and slow, four to six quarts of blood should be at once drawn from the jugular vein from a large opening. But if the pulse is feeble and quick, no blood should be taken. In all cases, give at once a smart purge. Ko. 20. Powdered aloes, 6 drachms. Calomel, 1 drachm. This amount to a horse. No. 21. Sulphate of magnesia, 20 oz. Croton beans, 15 oz. Mix and give to an ox or cow. The animal should be kept as quiet as possible in a darkened stable, and have plenty of water, but no food, and the head should be often bathed with ice water. If the purge does not act thoroughly, repeat it on the second or third day. When ice water is not at hand, the following cooling lotion will supply its place: — No. 22. Common salt, Saltpetre, Sal ammoniac, each 4 oz. Mix in a gallon of water. To reduce the fever, the following is a useful preparation : — No. 23. Powdered digitalis, 1 drachm. Saltpetre, 2 drachms. Mix and give as a ball several times a day. Cerebro-Spinal Meningitis. 89 Not unfrequently after the attack is over some palsy of the limbs, generally the hind limbs, remains. This can be most successfully met by closes of strychnine, beginning with three grains twice a day, and cautiously increasing it a grain every two days, until the animal is taking twelve or fifteen grains daily. CEREBEO-SPINAL MENINGITIS. Definition. — A congestion passing into inflammation of the brain and spinal marrow and its envelopes, accompanied by paralysis. Causes. — This disease is generally epidemic, and confined to the cold months of the year. By most, it is attributed to a" blood poison floating in the air. Some of the ej^idemics, as that in New York city in 1871, were extremely fatal, and of the horses attacked with it early after its appearance very few recovered. It is believed not to be contagious, so that little advantage is gained by separating horses. Symptoms. — In its more severe form, the animal is gener- ally attacked suddenly with loss of power to swallow, or with a spasm ; the hind quarters soon turn cold to the touch, and there is great tenderness on pressure at some spot along the spine. The horse loses the power to stand, the bladder and bowels discharge their contents without effort, and the neck becomes stiff and contracted similar to lockjaw. In some cases frenzy comes on before the palsy, the animal beats its head against the wall with great violence, uttering horrible cries, and soon dies from the agony. The temperature of the skin is lower than in health, and of the rectum but little higher. When the latter rises to 103° or 104° death is im- minent. The urine and pulse are not much altered until the disease is well established, but the breathing is more or less snoring as a rule. Treatment. — The first step is to put the animal in a well 90 Diseases of the Horse. made sling. Unless this is done within 24 hours from the commencement of the attack, there is but slight hope of his recovery. Next, he should be well brushed and the legs wrapped in woolen cloths. If he can swallow, a moderate amount of good soft food should be given. The stable should be kept warm, darkened and quiet, and if there is sup- pression of urine, it should be drawn off with a catheter. As to medical treatment, there is no use whatever in bleed- ing, purging or blistering. The most successful treatment is to inject with the hypodermic syringe full doses of sulphate of atropine, and give ergot with the food ; or if the animal cannot swallow, inject ergotine along with the atropine. (See page 44). Ice to the spine, or hot salt bags, as some prefer,, may be tried, but has not produced any marked results ; nor has cauterizing the spine with the hot iron. Where the strength is failing, full doses of whiskey, either by the mouth or rectum, will sometimes keep up the vital powers and give a chance for recovery. Animals should not be used or driven as soon as they show any signs of the disease, nor should they be put to work for some time after such an attack, as it would be very liable to bring on a fatal relapse. When the hypodermic syringe is not at hand, the following combination will supply the place of the remedies mentioned : — No. 24. Extract of belladonna, 2 to 3 drachms. Powdered ergot, 1 oz. Make into a ball or drench — give three times a day. Another remedy which is believed to have a soothing effect is bromide of potassium. It should be given in ounce doses, repeated until the animal is brought under the influence of it and suffers less from the pains. CONVULSIVE DISEASES OR FITS— APOPLEXY— EPILEPSY— FAILIITG SICKNESS— ST. VITUS' DANCE, OR STRINGHALT. Apopletic fits are very rare in horses, though common in cows. They will be described later in this work imder the Fits of Varioiis Kinds. 91 diseases of calving, (Parturient Apoplexy). Epileptic fits are also very uncommon either in horses or cattle, though often seen in overfed pigs. The most usual form of the disease will be described under Vertigo or Megrims. The most practically important of this class of complaints is that known in the horse as " Stringhalt." This name is given to a habit of suddenly jerking up the hind limb when raised from the ground, and bringing it down again with more than usual force. It may be shown only when turning from side to side in the stall, or it may also appear in walking or trotting. Sometimes it is confined to one leg, sometimes it extends to both. Sometimes a horse will go twenty or thirty steps before he shows the halt; then all at once the leg will be suddenly lifted and brought down again with a peculiar sudden jerk. There is no known cure for stringhalt, and it is pretty certain to increase with age and work ; so that it constitutes a radical unsoundness in a horse. E.est, cathartics and full doses of belladonna will generally lessen it for a time, but are of no permanent benefit. ME6SIMS, VEBTIGO, GIDDII^SS. Definition. — A disease of the brain, characterized by tem- porary loss of control of the muscles, loss of sensation, and slight spasms of the muscles, but without inflammation. Causes. — Overwork in fat horses, tight or badly fitting collars, exposure to the hot sun, constipation, hereditary ten- dency, and local irritations, as worms, etc. Symptoms. — The animal when at work suddenly stops, reels and trembles, perhaps falls to the ground and lies for a few minutes partly insensible, then staggers to his feet, and remains excitable and nervous for several hours or days. There is no positive spasm, and the fits are liable to r^cui with greater or less frequency. 92 Diseases of the Horse. Treatment. — As soon as the earliest symptoms are noticed, fche horse should be stopped, his collar removed or opened, his eyes shaded or covered, and cold water poured over his head. Blood may be drawn from the jugular vein, and the horse placed in a quiet stable and given an active purge. Horses subject to the disease should have a collar specially fitted to avoid any pressure upon the blood-vessels; and if young and fat, their diet should be restricted. These measures will check an attack and lessen the likeli- hood of its recurrence. But megrims is substantially an in- curable disease and constitutes a permanent unsoundness in a horse. It no doubt is often a form of epilepsy, in which case we may have some chance of curing it by the use of one of the bromides, as: No. 25. Bromide of potassium, ^ oz. Powdered gentian, 1 drachm. This amount two or three times a day for many weeks. Another and cheaper medicine of some renown in epilepsy is recommended by Prof. Gamgce: — No. 26. Sulphate of zinc, ^ drachm. Linseed meal, 1 oa. Make into a ball and give twice daily. In stallions the fits have sometimes been found to dis- appear on castration; and when they are so frequent as to render the animal almost useless, this means should be tried. The nitrate of silver is a medicine which has also been recommended. No. 27. Nitrate of silver, 6 to 8 grains. Make into a ball with common mass, or molasses and meal, and give once or twice daily. Or it may be dissolved in the pail of water. "Whenever worms are suspected, or other sources of local irritation, these should be attended to in the proper manner. Management of Sunstroke. 93 SITNSTBOEE. Oefinition. — An injury to the brain from exposure to the ra.js of the sun and excessive heat, characterized by sudden loss of power of motion and of consciousness, either partial or total. Causes. — This is a very common disease, in the hot months, in our great cities, and usually is directly caused by over- work in the sun without protection to the head. Those most subject to it are fat, young, feeble and old horses. Wearing a sun-shade or a wet sponge on the top of the head, giving an abundance of cool water, and wearing a breast- strap instead of a collar, are the principal preventive measures, and they should not be neglected. Symptoms. — In severe cases the horse will suddenly stop, prop himself on his extended limbs, pant violently, drop to the ground and die in a convulsion. In more gradual attacks he will flag in his gait, be unsteady in his limbs, will spread his legs in standing and totter. The head is held low, the eyes protrude, the nostrils are dilated, the pupils of eyes smaller than natural, and the breathing rapid and snor- ing. On examination the skin is felt to be hot, the pulse quick and weak, and the heart beating violently and irregu- larly. Unless relieved, convulsions, palsy and death may ensue; or if recovery takes place, the attack leaves for a long time symptoms of dullness, drowsiness and irritability ; while the horse is rarely ever after able to stand an ordinary amount of exposure or work in the hot sun. Treatment. — Throw buckets of cold water over the whole body, using considerable force, and douching especially the head and neck. Having done this thoroughly, rub the skin energetically with rough cloths, as bagging, etc. Then re- peat the douching. There is no use in giving injections, and positive certainty of doing injury by bleeding. The 94 Diseases of the Horse. best of all medicines is quinine. Throw 30 to 60 grains, by repeated injections, underneath the skin with the hypo- dermic syringe. This is the East Indian plan and nothing equals it in efficacy. After the attack the animal should be turned into a well shaded field, where there is plenty of good water, for a few weeks. As a drench to support the powei-s at the time of the attack, it is recommended to give as soon as possible. No. 28. Sulphuric ether, 2 oz. Water, 1 pint. For a drench. No. 29. Tincture of aconite root, 20 drops. Ale or beer, 1 pint. For a drench. PARALYSIS OE PALSY. Deiinition. — Loss of power over some of the muscles, owing to a disordered state of the brain or nerves, arising from disease, injuries or irritations. Causes. — In the horse and cattle, palsy of the hind quar- ters is quite common from indigestion, constipation, and attacks of colic. In cows and mares it often arises from the womb, either at the time of the heat, or after giving birth. Such cases are usually temporary, and soon recover. Palsy from injury, or from some organic disease of the spinal cord are also not infrequent, and these offer little or no chance of improvement. Symptoms. — The animal is at first seen to show weakness of one hind limb, with knuckling over at the fetlock, and difficulty of moving it, when the opposite limb may become affected. If the attack is severe, the animal falls on his haunches and is not able to rise. There is no fever, nor mental excitement, nor is the pulse or breathmg affected. Treatment of Palsy, 95 Treatment. — This should be directed to remove the cause of the disease. When there is colic or constipation, give a good, brisk purge (No. 20) ; if there is tenderness along the spine, ergot in full doses with the food is called for. When it is in connection with calving, time and ordinary care will generally remove it. Such measures failing, we must proceed to an energetic, general and local treatment. Internally, one of the best drugs is strychnine, given as re- commended in No. 20, or by throwing one-half to one grain under the skin twice daily, as No. 30. Strychnine, 2 grains. Sulphuric acid, 4 drops. Alcohol, \ oz. Every 10 drops contain 1-12 of a grain of strychnine. Or it may be given as nux vomica : No. 31. Extract of nux vomica, ^drachm. Milk, 1 pint. For a drench twice a day. Cantharides is another useful agent. No. 32. Powdered cantharides, 5 grains. Powdered ginger, 1 drachm. Mix with meal to a ball and give twice daily. Locally, in a valuable animal, it is worth while to try elec- tricity. This has proved of immense service in paralysis in the human race. Pouring cold water from a height and then immediately hot water brings about a powerful revulsion, and sometimes greatly strengthens the muscles. Rubbing the parts with mustard stimulates them, and it is productive of good in some cases. A mild blistering ointment may be rubbed in, as No. 33. Powdered cantharides, 1 oz. Oil of turpentine. Lard, 1 oz. 8 oz. Mix with a gentle heat. 96 Diseases of the Horse, TETAinTS OR LOCKJAW. Definition. — A long continued, painful spasm of the mus^ cles, which contract rigidly, often keeping the jaws firmly closed or locked. Causes. — The most frequent cause is a wound in the legs or feet, often in itself of a trivial character, such as the pene- tration of a small nail, castration or docking. Occasionally the disease arises without known cause, and in rare instances becomes epidemic, attacking a great many horses in a district. Some believe it is more frequent in cold than in hot weather; but in Scotland Prof. Williams found that it is more com- mon in summer. It is often seen in the horse, but very rarely in cattle. Symptoms. — In the earliest stages there will be a stiffness of the muscles near the seat of the injury; the limb will be moved with difficulty. This stiffness increases and extends in two or three days over the body. The animal champs his jaws and grinds his teeth. Spittle flows from his mouth, and froth shows on his lips. The breathing grows more rapid, the pulse quickens, and the nostrils are dilated; but the special and unfailing signs of the disease are the protrusion of the haw, or winking membrane of the eye, and the closing of the jaws by the spasms of the muscles around it. The bowels and bladder cease acting, the belly is stiff, and any attempt at swallowing brings on a dry hard cough. Treatment. — Of the many plans and medicines recom- mended in lockjaw, most are of no sort of use. It may be premised by saying, that in every case where all the symp- toms are firmly established before the fourth day of the attack, death may be expected and treatment is useless after that time. But where the symptoms are less complete, more Treatment of Lockjaw. 97 slow in developing, and where the patient is seen very early, there is a fair chance of success. The first step is to inquire if there has been any wound to produce the disease. If there is, it should be examined, cleaned carefully, widened with a knife if it seems contracted or containing pus, and covered with a warm poultice mixed •with laudanum or tincture of belladonna. Afterwards it is to be smeared with extract of belladonna. The next thing, if not the first, is to j)lace the animal loosely in slings, and the earlier this can be done in the disease the better. The surroundings of the patient are of the utmost importance. The stable must be darkened j should contain no other horses; be kept quiet, and no visitors be admitted. It is enouo-h for the surgeon to look in twice a day and give what food, in the shape of nutritives and milk, the horse is able to take. Usually the thirst is great for several days. Mr. Chawner recommends the use internally of: No. 34. Extract of belladonna, 4 drachms. Chloroform, 1 oz. Mix with the drink and give every four hours. "Various English veterinarians give at the outset, one or two full doses of aconite^ half a drachm to a drachm of the tincture of the root, and shut the animal up in a cool, dark place. They claim great success from this plan. The rigidity of the muscles can sometimes be removed for several hours by hypodermic injections of morphia, 3 to 6 grains. Lobelia, or Indian tobacco, has a reputation iu some dis- tricts as a cure for tetanus in the horse. It is a powerful relaxant, and given in doses of half an ounce to an ounce of the tincture, will no doubt lessen or remove the spasm. But it is apt to return when the effect of the medicine passes away. 7 98 Diseases of the Horse. Prof. Gamgee advises the use of powerful purgatives early in the disease, as : No. 35. Croton oil, 6 to 8 drops. Powdered aloes, 4 to 6 drachms. Mix for a drench. Or Ko, 36. Castor oil, 6 oz. Croton oil, 12 drops. To be given in linseed tea. HYDROPHOBIA. Dofillitioil. — A disease which arises spontaneously in the dog and cat and is communicated by their saliva to the horse, cow, sheep, swine and man. It aifects the brain, nerves and mental faculties and is incurable. Causes. — In the horse, cow and sheep, hydrophobia is al- ways produced by the bite of a mad dog or other hydro- phobic animal. Symptoms, — These appear in the horse from 15 to 90 days after the bite; in cattle, after 20 to 30 days; in sheep, after 20 to 25 days; in swine, after 20 to 50 days. It is gener- ally believed that mad animals have a great dread of water, and from this the disease receives its name. Most recent observers deny this entirely ; and explain the mistake by the statement that the attempt to swallow brings on an exceed- ingly painful spasm of the throat, which throws the animal into a convulsion. In the horse, the patient trembles or staggers; his eye is wild ; he soon grows furious, and endeavors to bite or run at and trample down any one whom he can reach ; he kicks violently, neighs, draws his yard, jerks his muscles, and finally drops paralyzed. Very peculiarly mischievous and dangerous propensities mark this species of madness, and distinguish it from the delirium of other diseases. In the Treatment of Hydrophobia. 99 same way the ox Is restless and excitable, turns out his upper lip, grinds his teeth, bellows loudly, and scrapes with his fore feet and rushes at all who approach. Sheep and hogs show in their own peculiar manners the ferocity and savage madness which is the characteristic of the disease. Treatment. — This should not be attempted. The only proper plan is to shoot the animal, not only as soon as the earliest symptoms appear, but as soon as it is ascertained that it has been bitten by a mad dog. After the attack once shows itself, it is absolutely useless to try any remedies. Yet it is true that many animals, perhaps one-third of those bitten by undoubted hydrophobic dogs, never take the disease. Therefore, in cases where there is considerable value at stake, an effort at prevention may be made. The wound should be thoroughly cauterized, at the earliest possible moment, with nitrate of silver, strong oil of vitriol or the red hot iron. The animal should not be used, but placed in a roomy box-stall or well closed shady paddock, and left quiet and by itself until the period of development of the disease above mentioned has been wholly past. With moderate diet and an abundance of water, this will no doubt render it less liable to succumb to the poison. 100 Diseases of the Horse. CHAPTER II. DISEASES OF THE BREATHING ORGANS. Cautions in Treating Diseases of the Breathing Organs. Cold in the Head — Catarrh. Nasal Gleet — Running from the Nose. Cold in the Chest — Bronchitis — Chronic Cough. Influenza — The Epizootic — Contagious Catarrhal Fe>rfr~-' Finh Eye. Sore Throat — Laryngitis — Pharyngintis. Inflammation of the Lungs — Lung Fevei — Pneumonia. Pleurisy. Heaves — Broken Wind — Emphysematous Asthma. Roaring-^High Blowing — Thick Wind — Whistling. As this class of diseases is the most common among stock in this country, we preface their description with a few general CAUTIONS IN TREATING DISEASES OF THE BREATHING ORGANS. 1. Be very cautious in giving purgative medicines. There is always a strong tendency for the inflammation to spread to the bowels, which would either prove fatal forth- with, or make a complicated and serious case of a simple one. Aloes, gamboge and large doses of salts are therefore not to be given. If the bowels are bound, injections of warm water, soap and water or linseed oil are all that is needed. 2. Do not give large doses of tartar emetic, calomel, digitalis, lobelia or other weakening medicines. The great danger in these diseases is from weakness and General Warnings. 101 exhaustion; and it is very obvious that this danger is vastly increased by increasing the weakness. 3. Use blisters, mustard, turpentine and other powerful counter irritants very moderately. In the horse, the application of any of these causes very great disturbance and distress, high excitement, an increase of fever, and often thus they do far more general harm than local good. Warm fomentations, poultices, etc., are gener- ally much better. 4. Be especially careful how you bleed. Some of the best English veterinarians say, never bleed in this class of diseases. But in the United States, leading authorities concede that in the very early stages of inflam- mation of the lungs, when the animal is young and strong, when the fever is high and the pulse firm, full and hard, three or four quarts of blood promptly taken from the jugular vein will cut short the disease. But it is very rare that we find all these conditions united, and when we have such potent means for lowering the pulse as aconite, veratrum viride and lobelia, we need rarely draw our lancets in these cases. 5. Never give medicine by drenches in throat disease or ivhere there is much coughing. Not only does a neglect of this rule often greatly aggra- vate the disease, by exciting and half strangling the animal, but it frequently disturbs the bowels and thus leads to serious complications. It will- be seen tliat most of the above rules completely reverse those laid down by the old farriers, and even those a:lvocated by such comparatively recent writers, as Youatt, Martin, Stonehenge, Mayhew, Slater, etc. ; but they are those now accepted and taught by the most eminent veterinarians in Eny-land and America. 102 Diseases of the Horse. i COLD IN THE HEAD— CATARRH. Definition. — An inflammatory affection of the lining mem- brane of the nostrils and parts adjacent. Causes. — Sudden changes of temperature ; exposure to wet and cold ; change from country air to city stables ; chills in changing the coat, etc. Symptoms. — Sneezing, running from the nose and eyes, redness of the eyes and of the membrane of the nose, slight feverishness, dullness, weakness. The discharge from the nose is at first thin and colorless, but soon changes to a thick, yellow matter. When the case becomes chronic, it is called chronic catarrh. The discharge may then become of an oifen- sive odor, and varies in quantity, sometimes being from one nostril only. It is sometimes mistaken for glanders, but is easily distinguished, as in glanders the discharge is thin and sticky, and generally without any perceptible smell. Treatment. — This is simple and easy, if begun in time. Place the animal in a well ventilated stall, but not exposed to draughts, keep him blanketed if the weather is cold, and make him inhale steam from a bucket of hot water stirred with a wisk of hay, and heated by a hot iron occasionally thrust in it. A few ounces of nitre may be dissolved in his water. Purgatives and bleedings should not be thought of. Give internally : — No. 37. Extract of belladonna, Powdered camphor, of each, 1 dr. Mix and give as a ball or smear on the tongue. If the fever runs rather high, take No. 38. Spirit of ammonia, Ether, each, 2 dr. Put in half a pint of linseed oil or gruel. Both the ball and the fluid should be given every night and morning. If the disease threatens to extend to the Treatment of Catarrh. 103 throat, wrap it well in a large poultice containing some mus- tard. When the earlier symptoms yield, the principal object becomes to build up the strength and improve the appetite. For this we can use No. 39, Carbonate of ammonia; Gentian, of each, 2 oz. Make into 8 balls with linseed meal, and give one night and morning. Mr. Finlay Dun finds the following a useful draught when a horse has cold, fever, and impaired appetite : — No. 40. Epsom salts. 2 oz. Nitre, Powdered gentian. Solution of acetate of ammonia, each, 1 oz. Mix in a pint of gruel. Another valuable mixture, where there are catarrhal symp- toms and sore throat, is : — No. 41. Nitre, 4 drachms. Powdered camphor, 2 drachms. Ipecacuanha, Extract of belladonna, each, 1 drachm. Make into a ball, and give one every two hours, Prof. Gamgee recommends the "abortive treatment" in commencing catarrh, by injecting the nostrils daily for three or four days with the following : — No. 42. Sulphate of zinc, 2 drachms, Tepid water, 4 pints. For a nasal injection. The same may be used with advantage in the chronic forms of nasal gleet. NASAL GLEET. Definition. — A low form of chronic inflammation affecting the lining membrane of one or both nostrils, and usually ex- tending into the pouches or sinuses in the upper jaw-bone which connect with them. Canses. — The gleet may be the result of a neglected catarrh, especially in scrofulous horses; or the consequence 104 Diseases of the Horse. of influenza or the epizooty; or from some foreign body which has accidentally or purposely been thrust up the nose; or from the growth of polyj)i, cancer, etc. Symptoms. — The horse may and may not have a cough; his condition is unthrifty, his coat poor, appetite irregular, and bowels loose or constipated ; or again none of these gen- eral symptoms is j)resent. There is a discharge from one or both nostrils. It is ir- regular in quantity, bluish white in color, rather thick and sticky, generally foul smelling. Small ulcers and excori- ations may be seen on the membranes of the nostrils — but not the characteristic, pit-like depressions of glanders. The membrane is also changed in hue, and often swollen and thickened. The question constantly occurs in these cases whether we have to do with a case of glanders ; and not unfrequently it is a difficult one to answer, until the case has been watched for several weeks. It is prudent to be on the safe side, and recommend the animal be separated from all others, and his attendant to exercise great caution in handling him. Treatment. — If there is a foreign body or a polypus present, it must be removed. When no such obvious cause is lo be found, the nostril is to be syringed daily with an antiseptic, cleansing wash, as : — No. 43. Tincture of chloride of iron, 1 oz. Water, 1 qt. To be used once a day. A sharp fly blister should be laid upon the face over the chambers and sinuses of the nose. This often brings about prompt improvement. Chloride of lime should be sprinkled in the bottom of the manger, so that the horse when eating is constantly inhaling its odor. On Common Colds. 105 Inhalation of sulphurous acid gas, well diluted with air, is frequently useful. The gas is mixed as follows : — Mix half an ounce of the milk of sulphur with as much powdered charcoal, and burn it in a moderate sized, loose stable, allowing the horse to remain in the atmosphere for half an hour. Repeat this daily. If it causes much cough- ing, it is too concentrated, and must be diluted with more air by opening the door. For the chronic form, or nasal gleet, one of the following washes should be syringed up the nostrils every morning : — No. 44. Chloride of zinc, 30 gr. • Water, 2 qts. Or No. 45. Carbolic acid, 1 oz. Water, 2 qts. As the best internal medicine in such cases, Mr. Chawner recommends : — No. 46. Sulphate of copper, Nitre, Powdered gentian, of each 1 dr. Make into a ball with linseed meal, and give every night and morning, COLD IN THE CHEST -BRONCHITIS— CHEONIC COUGH. Definition. — Inflammation of the lining membrane of the windpipe and smaller air tubes leading to the lungs, charac- terized by hoarse cough and shortness of breath. Causes.^ — Exposure to sudden changes of temperature; standing uncovered when heated by driving; standing in drafts, and getting chilled from wet, etc. Symptoms. — The most prominent is the cough. This is at first dry and ringing, but soon becomes hoarse, loud, and in spells. The pulse and breathing are both generally in- creased, sometimes very much so, to the extent of seventy or eighty in the minute. The animal is dull and listless, hangs 106 Diseases of the Horse. the head, is thirsty, and drops ropy mucus from the mouth. The bowels are generally constipated^ and the urine high colored. On examining the chest there is no dullness on percussion, which distinguishes it from pneumonia, and the breathing is evidently not painful, which marks it oif from pleurisy. On listening with the ear, moist bubbling sounds can be heard in the chest, caused by the mucus in the air tubes in the lungs. As the disease advances toward recovery, a profuse dis- charge issues from the nostrils, the inflammation gradually subsides, the cough becomes less hoarse and more vigorous, the discharge becomes thinner and finally ceases. But if the progress is toward a fatal issue, the breathing increases in rapidity, the pulse becomes feeble and rapid, a bloody froth hangs from the mouth, and convulsions seize the animal while coughing, and close the scene. Treatment. — All w^eakening measures, such as bleeding, tartar emetic, etc., are to be avoided ; so also are all " cough mixtures," as what are called expectorants are almost useless in the lower animals. In the very first stage of the disease, while the membranes are dry and the cough ringing, a full dose of an opiate may be given with great advantage. The hypodermic injection of morphia is the most desirable form. Next to this, 60 to 80 drops of tincture of aconite given in a pint of water every two hours will reduce the pulse promptly. Later on, to soothe and relieve cough, take No, 47. Carbonate of ammonia, Powdered camphor, Extract of belladonna, each 1 dr. Make into a ball with linseed meal, and give this amount three times a day. For the feverishness, half-ounce doses of nitre may be given in the water once or twice daily. There is often profuse Receipts for Coughs. 107 fitaleing in the course of the disease, which is beneficial rather than otherwise. If the bowels are constipated, injections of oil and soap and water are far better than aloes or other pur- gatives. If there is much weakness remaining, tonics such as No. 46 are called for. Cbronic Cough is a troublesome and common result of a neglected cold. The cough is generally loud and metallic, and often is accompanied, especially in cattle, with emacia- tion and weakness. Very many remedies have been sug- gested for it, and when one fails after a reasonable time, it is well to try another. Professor Williams recommends : — No. 48. Prussic (hydrocyanic) acid, dilute, 40 to 60 drops. Nitre, Bi-carbonate of Soda, each 1 oz. Water, 1 qt. This amount twice a day, a strong blister to the breast, and careful housing and nursing. Mr. Chawner prefers external applications, of which he says the following is the best : — No. 49. Croton oil, 15 to 20 drops. Glycerine, 1 oz. To be rubbed on the throat and around the windpipe once every ten days. Mr. Finlay Dun recommends the following cough mix- lure : — No. 50. Fowler's solution of arsenic. Chlorate of potash, each 1 oz. Extract of belladonna, 1 drachm. Make into a draught, with water or gruel. Valuable in chronic irri- table cough, especially when remaining after attacks of influenza or sore throat. No. 51. Powdered camphor. Extract of belladonna, each 1 drachm. Sweet spirits of nitre, 2 oz. Give in a pint of cold gruel several times a day to horses or cattle, 'where there is commencing cough and sore throat. i08 Diseases of ike Horse. An ordinary cough and fever draught is : — No. 52. Powdered digitalis, J drachm. Nitre, i oz. Water, 1 pint. For a drench. The following is recommended as a useful drench in ob- stinate coughs : — No. '03. Solution of potash, 1 drachm. Linseed oil, 2 oz. Molasses, 1 oz. Give in a pint of soft water or milk twice a day. Tar water has been well spoken of: No. 54. Tar water, Lime water, each ^ pint Powdered squills, 1 drachm. This drink every morning in obstinate coughs. As a sedative mixture, to allay the violence of the cough, we may employ: — No. 55. Nitre, 4 drachms. Powdered opium, 2 drachms, Prussic acid (dilute). 1 drachm. Mix in a pint of mucilage or linseed tea, and give half a tumblerful three times a day. Sometimes a chronic cough of long standing is benefitted by a blister on the chest. Instead of the usual cantharides plaster we may use the following, which leaves less of a blemish : — No. 56. Croton oil, 1 drachm. Sulphuric ether, Alcohol, each 10 drachms. Apply with friction. Expectorants, as they are called, — medicines designed to loosen the cough and hasten the restoration of the secretions to their natural condition — do not act with as decided bene- fit in the lower animals as in man. They are, however, occa- sionally useful. One of the best combinations is : — Contagious Influenza. 109 No. 57. Gum ammoniacum, 2 drachms. Powdered squills, Aloes, each 1 drachm. Mix with mass or meal to a ball, and give every morning in long standing coughs. Or if the bowels do not seem costive, and the cough is of an irritable, easily excited, spasmodic character, the aloes can be beneficially replaced by opium, in the same quantity. An excellent combination is : — No. 58. Muriate of ammonia, J oz. Ipecauanha, Liquorice powder, each 1 drachm. Mix with tar, honey, or molasses, to form a ball, and give one every morning to break up a cold on the chest. mTLTJENZA— THE EPIZOOTIC DISEASE— CONTAGIOUS CATAEEHAL FEVER— PINK EYE. Definition. — By these and other names the disease is known which in the fall of 1872, and often before and since has swept through the United States attacking almost every horse. It is a contagious epidemic disease, characterized by inflammation of the membranes of the air passages, discharge from the nostrils, cough and debility. It is quite fatal, the mortality in the Atlantic States being in 1872 over 10,000 horses in a month. Cause. — The immediate cause is wholly unknown, but it is believed to be owing to some blood poison which spreads through the air. Symptoms. — The earliest symptoms are weakness shown in a staggering gait, hanging head and trembling, shivering as from cold, loss of appetite ; watery discharge from the eyes and a staring coat soon follow. The pulse is quickened and weak, from 50 to 60 in the minute, there is a short dry cough and the breathing is a little hurried. Later on the pulse rises to 80 or 90, the temperature to 104° or 105°, and the breathing to 40 or 50 times per minute. The body is 110 Diseases of the Horse. propped up by the extended legs and the horse is evidently afraid to lie down. The bowels are bound, the urine scanty. Often the disease extends to the throat and lungs, bringing in bron- chitis and pneumonia as complications. The nose discharges a white, yellowish or greenish matter. Sometimes rheumatic swellings and tenderness take place in the muscles and joints of the limbs, and may last for months, leading to abscesses and fistulas. Death comes through weakness and exhaus- tion, suffocation, paralysis, or clots forming in the heart. Treatment. — Here again any lowering treatment by aco- nite, tartar emetic, lobelia, bleeding or purging is simply murderous. If the bowels are costive, small injections of warm w^ater or oil are in order. From the first, begin with tonics and stimulants. Mr. Chawner considers the very best to be that given No. 39. When the cough is very distressing the following mixture wall relieve it : — No. 59. Extract of belladonna, ^ oz. Powdered opium, 2 drachms. Powdered camphor, 3 drachms. Powdered liquorice, 2 oz. Molasses, 2^ pint. Mix them well together and smear a spoonful on the tongue two or three times a day. Good nursing is indispensable. The horse should be well blanketed and wrapped, and his food should be soft, nourish- ing and cooked. An ounce of saltpetre should be placed in his drink bucket. When after the worst is over there appear signs of dropsy by swelling of the legs or sheath, one of the following pre- scriptions will be found very efficacious: — No. 60. Iodide of potassium, Carbonate of ammonia, Powdered gentian, of each 1 01. Make into 8 balls and give one morning and evening. Treatment of Epizooty, 111 Or, No. 61. Iodine, Iodide of potash, Camplior, Extract of belladonna, each J drachm. This is highly spoken of by Mr. Finlay Dun to allay the epizootic cough, sore throat and catarrh. A similar com- pound is: — No. 62. Iodine, 20 grains. Iodide of potassium, 1 drachm. Sweet spirits of nitre, 2 oz. Water gruel, 1 pint. For one dose two or three times a day. Recovery should begin after four or five days, but foi weeks afterwards the horse must be given little or no work, as in very many cases a too early return to labor has led to fatal relapses. During the disease a stimulating and soothing draught may be prepared as follows : — No. 63. Powdered camphor, Carbonate of ammonia, each 2 drachms. Sulphuric ether, 1 oz. Give in a pint of cold ale or beer, two or three times a day. Or, No. 64. Sweet spirits of nitre, Solution of acetate of ammonia, each 2 oz. Extract of belladonna, 1 drachm. Give in a pint of water as a stimulant and anodyne draught. Mr. Finlay Dun says that in the roaring, noisy respiration which accompanies some forms of epizootic sore throat, no medicine gives such immediate relief as the subcutaneous injection of belladonna or atropia. For the spasmodic cough which often follows the attack, the same writer recom- mends : — p No. 65. Chloroform, 1 drachm. Alcohol, 10 drachms. Extract of belladonna, 1 drachm. Give in a pint of cold linseed gruel, and let it be swallowed yery slowly, so as to insure more prolonged local effect. 112 Diseases of the Horse. SORE THROAT— LARYNGITIS— PHARYNGITIS. DGfinition. — Inflammation of the lining membrane of the upper parts of the food and air passages, usually accompanied with cough, difficult swallowing, and fever. Although a distinction is drawn between laryngitis and pharyngitis, prac- tically they are nearly always both present when either is. Causes. — The same that give rise to colds and catarrhs. In addition to those, bots may cause it in horses. Symptoms. — In its acute and severe forms this is a dan- gerous disease. The breathing rapidly becomes difficult and sounds hoarse. The inspiration is longer than the respira- tion. The animal's nose is protruded, the eyes are prominent, watery and bloodshot. There is a distressed expression of the face, a hoarse rasping cough, cold sweats on the body and legs, and they and the ears feel cold to the touch. The animal stamps its feet repeatedly and is excitable. Prostration and death may rapidly ensue. Generally, however, these symp- toms are present in a much milder form. There is usually a running from the nose, and evident pain in the act of swal- lowing. Treatment. — This should be prompt where the symptoms are of the severe type above described. The throat' should be fomented with cloths wrung out of hot mustard water, the animal's head should be held over a bucket of hot water so that he can inhale the steam, and if signs of strangling and suffi^cation appear, no hesitation must be had to open the upper part of the windpipe lengthwise with a sharp knife, and a tube of lead be inserted for the animal to breathe through. Should the attempt to steam the throat excite the horse, it should not be pushed, as it is of great importance to keep him quiet. Owing to the difficulty of swallowing, medicine cannot well be given by the throat; but the compound cougli mix- Treatment of Sore Throat. 113 ture, No. 47 can be advantageously smeared on the tongue : as can also the following : — No. 66. Powdered chlorate of potash, 4 oz. Powdered guaiacum, 1 oz. Molasses, J pint. Mix and smear a spoonful on the tongue several times a day. Much good will sometimes be done by mixing mustard with water to a thin paste, and painting it outside the throat. When the patient is feverish, and the throat hot and dry, the following is a successful mixture: — No. 67. Powdered ipecac, 1 drachm. Solution of acetate of ammonia, 1 oz. Give in a pint of cold linseed tea, and repeat it three or four times a day. In the more chronic forms, astringent applications are use- ful, as: — No. 68. Tincture of myrrh, 2 oz. Camphor mixture, 4 oz. Honey, 6 oz. Make into a soft mass, and give with a spoon. Or, No. 69. Tannic acid, 2 drachms. Honey, 4 oz. Mix and give as the last mentioned. Rubbing the throat with mustard or blistering it may be required in cases of long standing. A stimulating embroca- tion will, however, often suffice. A very common one is : — No. 70. Oil of turpentine. Solution of ammonia, Olive oil, equal parts. Use by rubbing on the throat daily. It is quite as efficient as many more complicated ones. When a more decided action is desired, the croton oil blistering mixture, No. 56, will be found valuable. 114 Diseases of the Horse. nrFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS— LUNG FEVER— PNEUMONIA. Definition. — An inflammation of the substance of the lungs, followed by a secretion of lymph, which fills them up and solidifies them, leading to death by suffocation, suppuration, or else to gradual absorption of the lymph and recovery Causes. — The general causes of this common, dangerous and therefore important disease are much the same as for colds, namely, exposure to sudden changes of temperature, getting chilled or wet, and draughty stables. Any slight cold or sore throat may rapidly run into pneumonia. It is also brought on by irritating smoke and gases, poisons in the blood, Avounds of the throat or lungs, and various exhaust- ing diseases. Symptoms. — The earlier symptoms are increased rapidity of the pulse, reaching 70 or. 80 beats per minute; a tem- peratiire rising to 103° or 104° and above; chilliness; a dry, dull cough ; and coldness of the legs and ears. The breath- ing is generally not very rapid at first, not more than 20 or 30 times a minute, and unless there is pleurisy, it is not painful. Sometimes a rusty colored, or blood stained mucus discharge from the nostrils takes place. The horse suffering from the disease will stand on his feet to the last, but an ox will lie down. After the first three or four days the breathing in- creases in rapidity, the pulse becomes feeble or intermittent, and the general weakness manifestly increases. But none of these symptoms is positive proof of the pres- ence of the disease. When, however, in addition to them we find dullness on percussion over those portions of the chest which in health are resonant, we need have no longer any doubt, as this dullness proves the lungs are solidified by the inflammation. In many instances, by applying the ear behind the shoulder, we can hear, instead of the natural soft murmur of healthy lungs (see page 73), a fine Treatment of Pneumonia. 115 crackling sound likQ the rustling of silk, which is a sure sign of the disease. Treatment. — Few subjects in medicine have been more actively discussed than the treatment of pneumonia, and the best surgeons are not entirely agreed upon it yet. [Neverthe- less, most of the leading authorities agree in discountenancing bleeding, blistering, and jjurging, as well as calomel, tartar emetic and lobelia, The following judicious rules are those laid down by Pro- fessor Williams : 1. Place the animal in a well ventilated loose box, but where the air is not too cold. 2. Clothe and wrap the body, extremities and head in suitable, but not too heavy cloths. 3. Give it as much water as it will drink, adding to the water, if there is much fever, about an ounce of nitre or 20 or 3 ' drops of tincture of aconite to the bucket full. 4. If the bowels are bound, loosen them by injections of oil or warm water. 5. If there is much weakness, give two drachms each of carbonate of ammonia and camphor, in the form of a ball, twice daily. 6. Let the food be simple, laxative, cooling and nutritious, as bran, boiled linseed meal, good hay, or cooked carrots or turnips. 7. If moderate diarrhoea or profuse staking come on they are on no account to be checked, as this is an effort of nature to throw off the disease. 8. If there is great exhaustion, moderate doses of whiskey may be given, but th^re is no use of pushing them, unless their good effects are soon seen. Prof. Gamgee believes that large mustard poultices to the chest are of value. He also teaches that in young and full 116 Diseases of the Horse. blooded animals it is good practice to bleed when tlie disease is seen in its early stages. For the febrile symptoms at the outset, salfnes are of good service, as: — No. 71. Nitre, ^ oz. Sulphate of soda, 2 oz. Mix with molasses to give with a spoon, or with a pint and a half of water as a drench. Or, No. 72. Sweet spirits of nitre, 1 oz. Solution of acetate of ammonia. Water, of each 6 oz. For a drench repeated every two hours till the fever abates. The power of aconite and veratrum viride to reduce the pulse and lessen the oppression on the lungs is undoubted; 20 to 30 drops of the tincture of aconite root may be given; or one to two drachms of the tincture of veratrum in water every two hours. The danger of using these medicines is that they are apt to bring about great depression of the system, and therefore their effects must be watched closely by an intelligent person and not left to an ignorant groom. As soon as their depressing influences are noticed in the fall- ing of the pulse, the sweats, the trembling and the anxious eye, they must be susj)ended. riEUEISY. Definition. — An inflamma,tion of the membrane which covers the lungs and lines the chest, followed by a secretion of a large quantity of watery fluid inside this membrane, and consequent pressure on the lungs. It may be on one or both sides. Causes. — Exposure to cold is generally considered one of the commonest causes. Attacks sometimes follow clipping and shearing. It is also very frequent as an extension of the inflammation of pneumonia (pleuro-pneimionia), and bron- Signs of Pleurisy. 117 chitis. Occasionally direct violence and wounds lead to pleurisy. Symptoms, — At the outset of the disease there is gener- ally a chill, staring coat, and coldness of the skin, with signs of pain, the animal pawing the ground and rolling. Soon, however, this gives way to so much stiffness and sore- ness that any movement is made unwillingly, and if pressed on the affected side the animal will indicate pain. The breathing is rapid and incomplete, as every act of respiration increases the pain in the chest. Hence it is largely performed by the abdominal muscles. The pulse is hard and quick, and there is a short, dry, painful cough. If the inflamma- tion is extensive, the movements of the animal are very slow, unwilling and stiff. On listening to the chest in the early stage, a dry, creaking sound is heard, like two pieces of leather rubbed together, caused by the movements of the in- flamed membranes upon each other. In the second stage, which comes on in from two to five days, when the space between the membrane is filled with secreted fluid, this sound disappears. On percussion, the lungs sound solid, especially in their most dependent por- tions. The breathing now becomes more labored, other muscles are called on to aid, even extending to those of the tail, which is moved uj) and down with a motion like a pump handle ; the nostrils are distended and flap, the pulse is small and irregular, and there are dropsical swellings. This condi- tion is that of " water on the chest " or " hydro-thorax." If the water does not rise higher than one-third of the chest — easily ascertained by percussion — there is a fair chance of recovery. Treatment. — In the very earliest stage, when the pain is usually most acute, a full dose of an opiate will cut it short in most cases. Thus we may give : — 118 Diseases of the Horse. No. 73. Laudanum, ^ oz. Linseed oil, 1 pint. Give at a dose. This may be repeated in a few hours if it does not check the symptoms. The painful sides should be fomented with hot water, the animal warmly clothed, and be allowed to drink plenty of water with an ounce of saltj^etre to the bucket full. Bleeding, blisters and purging do little or no good, and very often decided harm. Good food, quiet and warmth are always needed. If, after the acute symptoms have jjassed, there remain weakness, a rapid pulse (70 or 80), scanty urine of a high color, and no diminution in the water on the chest, a moder- ate mustard liniment may be rubbed into the chest, and full doses of iron given, which is one of the best known remedies in this condition. No. 74. Tincture of chloride of iron, ^ oz. This amount in a pail of water twice daily. The effusion can also be drawn off by tapping the chest with a trochar. This is not nearly so dangerous an operation as it used to be thought. To perform it properly, divide the skin with a lancet between the eighth and ninth rib ; then stretch the skin so that when it returns to its natural position it will cover the spot punctured by the trochar. Plunge the latter into the sac filled with the effusion, and let the con- tained matter flow out freely. Some recommend syringing the sack with dilute carbolic acid (one drachm to ten ounces of water). If the sac refills, it can be tapped again, and even a permanent external opening has been advocated by some. After being tapped, the animal should be fed up with nutri- tious food, iron tonics, etc. It is well, in order to hasten the absorption of* the water in the chest, to give the following : — Unsoundness of the Wind. 119 No. 75. Iodide of potassium, Carbonate of ammonia, each 1 drachm. Gentian, powdered, ^ oz. Give as a ball or drench twice a day. HEAVES— BROKEN WIND— EMPHYSEMATOUS ASTHMA. Definition. — A chronic disease of the breathing organs, without inflammation, characterised by a peculiar breathing, the breath being drawn in with ease, but breathed out by two distinct efforts. There is always a peculiar cough of a hollow muffled sound, easily produced at any time by pres- sure on the upper part of the windpipe ; and nearly always there is indigestion with flatulence. Causes. — The immediate cause is rupture of the small cells in the lungs, so that the animal cannot expel the air he has drawn in without an extra and double effort. This rupture is brought about by jDutting the horse to hard work with his stomach full of coarse and undigested food ; or by hereditary predisposition. Symptoms. — Usually the character of the expirations above noted and the oough leave no doubt of the disease. On percussion, the chest is found to be more resonant than natural ; and on listening with the ear to the chest, a rustling sound is heard, denoting the presence of air in the lung tissue. The symptoms are always more severe when the animal has a full stomach. The animal usually is unthrifty, dyspeptic and with a harsh dry coat. Treatment. — A cure is impossible ; but great relief may be had by feeding the horse on light nutritious food in mod- erate quantities, and by improving his digestion by alkalies, acids or tonics. A purgative should occasionally be admin- istered and the bowels kept regular. A celebrated recipe of the late Professor Dick in this disease was : — 120 Diseases of the Horse. No. 76. Calomel, Digitalis, Opium, Camphor, of each 30 grains. Make into a ball and give once or twice a day. After the first week the calomel should be omitted and the three remainmg ingredients continued. Prof. Law considers the most useful of all medicines to be an arsenical preparation, as : — No. 77. Arsenic, Fowler's solution, 1 oz. Belladonna extract, 1 drachm. Tincture of ginger, ^ drachm. Mix with a pint of water for a drench and give every morning for a month or two. If the animal is turned out to pasture on clean short grass, and given this regularly, it will cure mild and recent cases. EOAHING—HIGHBLOWING— THICK WIND— WHISTLING. Definition. — These peculiar noises all arise from some diseased condition of the windpipe. Roaring when of long standing is owing to atrophy or degeneration of the muscles of the larynx. Thick wind arises from an inflamed and thickened condition of the lower and smaller branches of the breathing tubes. Whistling is a sharp sound arising from a narrowing of the windpipe, usually at its upper portion near the larynx. Both roaring and whistling occur during inspiration. Causes. — All these disorders may follow sharp colds, or pneumonia, strangles, diseases of the nose, tumors or tight reining. They are also frequently hereditary, and constitute an unsoundness. Symptoms. — In addition to the peculiar sound above mentioned, the roarer generally has a cough which is pecu- liar, being a loud sharp dry sound, half a roar, half a cough. In thick wind the breathing is more rapid than usual, and there is a short, dry loud cough, which can be elicited at any Treatment of Thick Wind. 121 time by making the animal take a sudden movement, or giving him an unexpected blow upon the ribs. Treatment. — The most successful treatment of roaring has been by firing or blistering the skin of the laryngeal region. It has been found that hypodermic injections of strychnia will excite the atrophied muscles, as in the form given below. Thick wind may be improved and sometimes cured by proper medicines. Mr. Chawner recommends : — No. 78. Powdered nitre, Powdered opium, Powdered camplior, each 1 drachm. Make a ball and give it once or twice a day before feeding, for several days. The following is excellent for the same purpose : — No. 79. Powdered nitre. Extract of belladonna, each 1 drachm, Arsenic, 8 grains. For one ball to be given once daily for a week. Give easily digested food in small quantities at a time, and M little water as possible. Always let the horse rest an hour after feeding. When, as is generally the case, roaring is owing to paraly- sis of the muscles of the larynx, it can be successfully treated by the plan recommended by Mr. Mavor of London. This is by injecting strychnine subcutaneously in doses of one-half to one grain, repeating this every two or three days. It is also reputed to have been of manifest advantage when given by the mouth, as : — No. 80. Strychnine, 3 grains, Linseed meal, Sufficient. Make a ball and give twice a day. Another plan of treatment is to rub daily or every other day the throat with iodine ointment: — No. 81. Iodine, 1 drachm. Iodide of potash, 2 drachms. Lard, 2 oz. Mix at a gentle heat. 122 Diseases of the Horse. And to give internally a cough ball of the following com- position:— No. 82. Digitalis, 1 dracliin. Kitre, 2 drachms. Powdered liquorice, 4 drachms. Mix with enough tar to form a ball and give it twice a day. The apjilication of a seton to the front of the throat is a form of counter irritation which sometimes stimulates the muscles of the larynx. The Digestive Organs. 123 .CHAPTER III. DISEASES OF THE OilGANS OF DIGESTION. General Remarhs on Diseases of the Digestive Organs. Local Inflammation in and around the Mouth — Lampas — Vives — Barbs and Paps — Tender and Bleeding Gums — Decayed Teeth — Tooth Cough. Ind gestion and Dyspepsia. Cribbing — Crib-biting — Wind-suching. Colic — The Gripes. Tympany — Flatulent Colic — Tympanites — Swollen Belly. Constipation — Costiveness. Diarrhoea — Scouring. Inflammation of the Bowels — Enteritis. Dysentery — Bloody Flux — Colitis. Congestion and Inflammation of the Livei Hepatitis — Jaundice — The Yellows. Intestinal Worm^, The Bots. GEmSRAL REMARKS ON DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. Most diseases of these organs arise from errors in feeding, or from folly in ignorant persons pouring down irritating medicines or administering injurious "condition powders," In the horse the intestines generally suifer ; in the ox and sheep it is more frequently the stomachs. The long tract of the intestines in the horse, to which we have referred on a previous page, and the important physio- logical fact that he has but one stomach with which to do the work for which four are assigned to the ox and sheep, render him highly sensitive to morbid disturbances of these organs. There is also a closer sympathy in him than in the others 124 Diseases of the Horse. between the stomach and the brain, slight attacks of indi- gestion frequently leading to vertigo or " staggers." As was remarked when speaking of the anatomy of the digestive tract, it properly begins with the teeth and mouth and closes with the anus ; in the consideration of its diseases, therefore, all the various parts and organs with which the food comes in contact from its entrance to its exit from the body will be discussed. LOCAL INFLAMMATIONS IN AND AEOTJND THE^ttOUTH. - There are quite a number of localized inflammations which occur in and around the mouth, and Avhich have received meaningless names from the old English farriers, most of which, however, are still preserved in one part of this country or another, through the traditions of the stable. Symptoms. — The general symptoms which indicate that a horse has some painful swelling in the mouth are a champing of the jaws, a return of his food to the manger without swal- lowing it, and a loss of condition in consequence. He- is restless and uneasy, and sometimes there is a dribbling of saliva from the mouth. The principal forms of these inflammations, with their popular names and treatment are as follows : — 1. Lampas. An active inflammation of the ridges or fleshy bars in the roof of the mouth, generally .occurring in a young horse while shedding his teeth ; sometimes occurring in older ones from overfeeding. The " bars " swell so much that sometimes they project below the level of the nippers, and are so tender that all hard and dry food is refused. The proper treatment is to scarify the bars with a sharp lancet ; and should this not reduce the swellings promptly. Disorders of the 3Iouth. 125 they should be touched with the stick of nitrate of silver, or swabbed with a strong solution every day until they disap- pear. 2. Vives. These are chronic enlargements of the glands of the lower jaw, encroaching on the cavity of the mouth. They are lia- ble to become tender and to discharge in the mouth. The treatment is by applying to the skin over where the swelling can be felt an ointment of biniodide of mercury, one drachm of the biniodide to the ounce of lard, rej^eated daily until a free secretion from the skin is established. This will nearly always disperse them. Or they may be painted with tincture of iodine ; or a tartar emetic ointment may be used, as : — No. 83. Tartar emetic, 2 drachms. Olive oil, 1 drachm. Lard, 1 oz. Eub together the tartar emetic and oil until smooth, then add the lard. For a pustulating ointment. 3. Barbs and Paps. By these and other names are known the swellings caused by obstructions of the ducts of the salivary glands. Their position indicates their origin. The treatment is by an incision over the swelling with a sharp pointed knife ; or by holding a pencil of nitrate of sil- ver against it every day for a moment or two. The horse should have a moderate dose of a laxative medicine (3 or 4 drachms of aloes), and his food be changed for a time. 4. Tender and Bleeding Gums. In young and scrofulous, and in quite old horses, it is not unusual to find the gums swollen, and to the touch soft, spongy and bleeding easily. Such horses have usually wide spaces between the teeth, which are found to be full of partly decomposed food. 126 Diseases of the Horse. As the act of mastication is painful, the animal performs it imperfectly, which becomes visible in his deteriorated con- dition, as well as by an inspection of his dung, which will consist in part of half digested food. The breath is un- pleasant and signs of indigestion are present. Treatment. — The matter lodged between the teeth should be removed every day with water and a properly constructed brush ; afterwards the parts should be washed with a solution of chloride of lime (an ounce to the pint). A spoonfed of the following should then be smeared on and around the teeth : — No. 84. Powdered chlorate of potash, 2 drachms. Honey or molasses, 2 oz. The space between the teeth can be filled with gutta percha nlling. When, however, in very old horses, this condition is the result of natural decay of the processes of the gums, it can only be alleviated by cleansing the teeth and giving soft food, of an easily digestible character. 5. Decayed Teeth. The teeth in the horse which are liable to decay are the molar or double teeth. The decay may attack the crown of the tooth, its neck or its fang. S3nuptoms. — These may be briefly arranged as follows : — 1. Pain in eating as shown by "quidding," that is throw- ing back from the mouth masses of half chewed food. 2. Flow of saliva, "dribbling" or "slobbering." 3. Swelling of the gum, redness, and pain around the diseased tooth. 4. Presence of a black spot upon it. 5. Sharp pain when t^he tooth is smartly rapped. 6. A fetid, sometimes excessively foul breath. Disorders of the Teeth. 127 Treatment. — The only treatment is to remove the decayed tooth. Animal dentistry has not as yet gone so far as to fill and preserve decayed teeth. It has, indeed, been done, the gutta percha filling being used ; and there are reasons why in a young and valuable animal it would be far better than extraction; but to fill the teeth jDroperly is a delicate task; and if done improperly, the result is worse than removal. The chief objection to extraction is that the corresponding tooth of the opposite jaw increases in length and becomes an object of serious annoyance. It must be periodically ex- amined ever after, and when it encroaches beyond its neigh- bors it must be rasped back to their level. 6. Tooth Cough. Horses at four years old are very subject to a distressing paroxysmal cough. The animal will sometimes cough twenty or thirty times without stopping. The sound of the cough is loud, sonorous and prolonged. The cause of this cough is an irritation of the mouth, ex- tending to the throat, brought on by the cutting of the sixth molar tooth, which is the one standing last in the row, and the replacement of the third temporary molar by its perma- nent substitute, both of which occur at this age. With the cough there may be associated some diarrhoea, indigestion and loss of condition from the difficulty in chew- ing the food properly, and the irritation it consequently causes. Treatment. — This consists largely in careful dieting; hay, not much bran; grass, if in season. The mouth should be washed in some cooling mixture, as : No. 85. Borax or alum, powdered, 1 oz. Water, 1 pint. Internally, a moderate laxative should be given, if the bowels are disordered, so as to cleanse them from the half 128 Diseases of the Horse. masticated food, and a daily dose of bicarbonate of soda, say one ounce, in the water. IiroiGESTION OR DYSPEPSIA. Two varieties of indigestion are found in the horse, the one associated with over-fullness or engorgement of the stomach, the other with an ordinary use of that organ. The indigestion of cattle, known as "hoven," presents such pecu- liar features, that it will be considered in the section devoted k) the diseases of cattle. Causes. — Indigestion without engorgement arises in colts and young horses from the irritation of teething, from re- moval from the dam at too early an age, draughts of cold milk, suckling when the dam is heated, etc. In older ani- mals defective teeth, debility of the stomach, and improper and irregular feeding are common causes. Indigestion with engorgement arises from ravenous eating, filling the stomach to an excessive degree. Symptoms. — These are, in the indigestion without engorge- ment, loss of appetite or a capricious appetite, desire to eat filth, soreness of the mouth, and increased thirst. The ani- mal is hide-bound, has a dry, scurfy skin, irregular bowels, and passes much wind. There are often a dry short cough and colicky pains, sometimes diarrhoea, and not unfrequently megrims or fits of giddiness. The feces are dark colored and of fetid odor; and often the urine is dark colored and on standing in a vessel deposits a reddish sediment. Indigestion from over-fullness of the stomach is indicated by j)awing with the fore feet, especially the near one, belching of wind, colicky pains, and some degree of fullness of the abdomen. There is also qviick pulse, labored breathing, and dribbing of saliva from the mouth. In severe cases the stomach becomes inflamed and the irri- Treatment of Indigestion. 129 tation extends to the brain. The animal is giddy, staggers, is dull and sleepy. This condition is that called "sleepy staggers;" or the brain becomes inflamed, and we have "mad staggers"; conditions the management of which we have already considered (p. 87). Treatment. — In ordinary cases of chronic indigestion,'we should first examine the mouth and teeth and remove any cause of irritation from them ; next we should inquire care- fully into the diet, and see that it is moderate in quantity, nutritious, and offered at regular intervals; when these are done, it will be time to think of medicines. Generally it will be advisable to give a mild purge of oil or of aloes, with ginger. After this has operated, the follow- ing is recommended by Prof. Williams as a tonic exercising a happy effect: — No. 86. Bicarbonate of soda, Powdered gentian, each ^ oz. Powdered nuz vomica, 20 grains. For one dose twice daily. Careful grooming is indispensable, and if the hair is thick clipping it will sometimes act almost magically. Of the various stomach stimulants the following may be used : — No. 87. Calumba, powdered, 2 drachms. Common salt, Fenugreek, each 1 drachm. Mix with molasses to form a ball. Or, No. 88. Peruvian bark, powdered, 1 oz. Flour of mustard, 1 drachm. This may be mixed with the food ; or if refused, given as a ball. When the indigestion is from a weak stomach, as occurs after an acute disease, two drachms of the medicinal dilute muriatic acid can be added to the drinking water two or three times a day, and will often exert a happy effect. 9 130 Diseases of the Horse. In acute indigestion, or impaction of the stomach, the object is to obtain an action of the bowels as promptly as possible. The horse cannot empty his stomach by vomiting, and hence the excess of food he has taken must be discharged by the intestines. Hence a powerful purge is demanded, as : — No. 89. Linseed oil, I pint. Croton oil, 20 to 30 drops. For one dose. Or, No. 90. Powdered aloes, 4 to 6 drachms. Oil of turpentine, 2 ounces. Calomel, 1 drachm. For one dose. The belly should be fomented with blankets wet with hot water, and injections should be thrown into the rectum of soap and water, oil, and even with a tablespoonful of tobacco tea. If sleepy staggers come on, a dose of whiskey and gin- ger is serviceable. Care should be taken that the animal does not throw himself down and fatally rupture his stomach. An active injection for the rectum in such cases is: — No. 91. Croton oil, 20 to 30 drops. Oil of turpentine, 3 to 4 oz. Linseed oil, 1 pint. To be thrown well up the bowels, CRIBBING— CEIB-BITING—WIND-STICKIHG. These vicious habits in the horse are symptoms of a disor- der of the digestive apparatus, and they are generally found in horses with a dry coat, hide-bound, and of unsightly ap- pearance. Symptoms. — A crib-biter seizes the manger or some other* furniture with his teeth, arches his neck, and makes a belch- ing noise. After a time this is followed by enlargement of the abdomen, A chronic cribber can easily be recognized by the appearance of his front teethj which are worn and On Crib-Biting. 131 rounded at their front edges, and by the enlarged and over- grown appearance of the muscles which depress the jaw. A wind-sucker smacks his lips, gathers air into his mouth, extends his head or presses it against some solid body, arches his neck, gathers his feet together, and swallows air, blowing himself out to a very visible extent. Both animals are subject to colic, indigestion and diabetes, the wind-sucker more, however, than the cribber. Treatment. — These habits are considered incurable. They may be provented by various mechanical means. For cribbing, the throat may be compressed with a neck strap of peculiar shape, to be had of most saddlers ; or what is called a " bar muzzle " may be applied, which allows the horse to eat but not to seize with his teeth. For wind suck- ing, a strap studded with sharp points of iron opposite the lower part of the jaw is the best preventive. In both cases .attention should be given to the indigestion and to the condition of the teeth and bowels, * COLIC— THE GRIPES. The horse is subject to two kinds of colic, spasmodic and flatulent, which will be considered separately. SPASMODIC COLIC-GRIPES. Definition. — A spasmodic contraction of the muscular coats of the intestines, usually commencing suddenly, causing severe pain, and with a tendency to run into inflammation. Causes. — These are various. Improper food, sudden changes of diet, exhaustion from overwork, drinking cold water when heated or exhausted, constipation, worms, and ulcers of the stomach, have all been set down as frequently leading to the complaint. Symptoms. — In intestinal colic the symptoms are sudden 132 Diseases of the Horse. pain, pawing, kicking at the bellv, looking round at the flanks, lying down, rolling, struggling, or lying outstretched ; then suddenly rising, shaking the body and remaining a short time free from pain. After a short time the pain re- turns, and the animal goes through similar motions. During the attacks, the breathing and pulse are quickened. There are generally frequent small discharges from the bowels and bladder, which latter is apt to be distended. Treatment. — The rational and only safe treatment of colic is first to relieve the pain with an opiate, and next to obtain a free action of the bowels by a purge, which is not too vio- lent in its action. For the first of these. Prof. Williams re- commends half an ounce to an ounce of laudanum in warm water ; and for the second, from five to ten drachms of aloes. Mr. Chawner prefers the following mixture, which he Bays he has never known to fail in a genuine case of colic: No. 92. Chloroform, Laudanum, Sulphuric ether, of each 1 oz. Linseed oil, 8 oz. For one dose. A still more convenient and also more prompt plan is to inject under the skin ivith the hypodermic syringe a full dose, say 10 grains, of morphia, and repeat it in an hour if the pain does not subside. Beyond this all that will be necessary will be an injection, as : — No. 93. Oil of turpentine, J to 1 pint. Soap suds, 1 qt. As other valuable combinations, suitable to special cases, Mr. Finlay Dun recommends : — No. 94. Tincture of aconite, 30 drops. Powdered aloes, J oz. Mix and give as a drench in a pint of water. When there is an abundant generation of gas with violent swelling, an excellent drench is : — Treatment of Colic. 133 2^0. 95. Powdered aloes, \ oz. Spirits of ammonia (milder), Sulphuric ether, each 1 oz. Mix with a pint of water and give promptly. A prompt relief is generally afforded by chloral : Ko. 96. Hydrate of chloral, 1 to 2 oz Sugar, 2oz. Mix in a pint of water. One of the colic draughts of the Edinburgh Veterinary College is : — No. 97. Laudanum, Oil of turpentine, each 1 to 2 oz. Linseed oil, 1 pint. Mix for a drench. For general service, few colic draughts are more effectual than No. 98. Aloes, 4 or 5 drachms. Laydanum. Sulphuric ether, each 1 oz. Eub down the aloes in a quart of warm water, and add the laudanum and ether when it is nearly cold. Sweet spirits of nitre is another valuable remedy: No. 99. Sweet spirits of nitre, 2 oz. Aloes, 4 drachms. Dissolve the aloes in a pint of cold water, and add the spirits. An old colic powder that used to be so famous that it was called the " Blessed powder " is : — No. 100. Powdered aloes. Powdered ginger. Powdered senna. Cream of tartar, equal parts of each. The dose is about two ounces made into a ball or in a drench. A recipe approved by Youatt is : — No. 101. Oil of turpentine, 3 oz. Laudanum, 1 oz. Mix and give in a pint of warm ale. If it does not relieve in half an hour, give as a second dose 134 Diseases of the Horse. half the quantity, together with one ounce of aloes dissolved in warm water. Another appropriate combination is :^ No. 102. Sulphuric ether, Laudanum, Spirits of camphor, each 1 oz. Essence of peppermint, 1 drachm. Mix in a pint of gruel or ale. TYMPAITY— FLATULElfT COLIC— TYMPAITITES— SWOLLEN BELLY. Definition. — Chronic distension of the bowels, with ten- dency to inflammation and rupture of their coats. Causes. — This dangerous form of colic usually arises du- ring the course of some other disease, but it may also appear as a consequence of spasmodic colic, or without any assign- able cause. It is also attributed to food which easily under- goes fermentation, as raw potatoes, green clover, brewers' slops, and the like. Symptoms. — In this form of colic the expression of pain ' though not so acute is much more constant than in the pre- vious form. The abdomen is somewhat swollen and resonant on percussion. The pulse becomes rapid and feeble, the breathing difficult, the feet and ears cold, and the animal grows weak, staggering and delirious. There is often a dull, sleepy look about him, and when he moves it is evidently with care to avoid painful movements of the intestines. He lies down if at all, cautiously. Treatment. — The object of treatment is to clear out the bowels thoroughly, yet by gentle means. A violent purge would probably lead to fatal inflammation. The most prompt mode to accomplish this is to oil the hand well and inserting it up the rectum, clean out the gut as far as the arm can reach. Then throw up a full injection of soap suds and oil of turpentine. Next, or previously, it may be, a dose • Flatulent Colic. 135 should be given by the mouth, intended to prevent the for- mation of the gas. Prof. Williams prefers to anything else, this drench : — No. 103. Solution of ammonia, J oz. Oil of turpentine, 1 oz. Linseed oil, | pint. For a drench. No food or water, or but very small quantities, should be given until there is relief by these measures. The French veterinarians take a trocar and canula and plunge it in the intestines, then withdraw the trocar and leave the canula in until the gas escapes. The relief afforded is instantaneous, and in but very few instances is a second operation necessary. This treatment has been recently prac- ticed in this country with eminent success. For flatulent colic, Prof. Gamgee advocates assafoetida, as: — No. 104. Assafoetida, 2 to 6 drachms. Linseed oil, 1 pint. Mix and give as a drench. Or, No. 105. Tincture of assafcetida, 2 to 4 oz. Laudanum, J to 1 oz. Mix with a pint of gruel or ale. Where, in conditions of disease and exhaustion, the colic is from tympany or swollen belly. Prof. Gamgee has found chlorate of potash useful : — No. 106. Chlorate of potash. J oz. Sulphuric ether, J oz. Water, \ pint. To be given in gruel. Or in a later stage, when it is desirable to act moderately on the bowels and correct the discharges, he gives : — No. 107. Chlorinated soda, i oz. Powdered aloes", 2 to 4 drachms. Warm water, 1 pint. Mix for a drench. 136 Diseases of the Horse. CONSTIPATION— COSTIVENESS. Definition. — Absence or diminution of the natural dis- charge from the bowels, usually accompanied with dry and hard feces, straining and difficulty in their expulsion. Causes. — 111 feeding, debility of the bowels, want of ex- ercise, indigestion, and various other diseases, especially in- flammation of the bowels. Paralysis of | the bowels is an occasional cause, and one very dangerous to life. Its pres- ence may be recognized by the absence of the intestinal murmurs always to be heard in health by listening to the abdomen. Symptoms. — The hard, dry and scanty character of the evacuations is the principal sign. Colicky pains, hide bound, passage of wind and other symptoms of indigestion are often present. The animal does not thrive, and is lacking in spirit. Treatment. — This is not always to be by strong purges. These often make the matter worse. The diet should be rendered more laxative, as mashes of bran and linseed meal, oat meal, etc., a change of water given, and mild aperient medicines with special stimulants to the bowels. An excellent laxative mixture for horses and cattle, is : — Fo. 108. Flour of sulphur, Cream of tartar, of each 2 or 3 oz. Molasses, 2 pint. Mix this in the drinking water, or if distasteful, with water as a drench. It should be repeated every other day. Strychnia and nux vomica have a special power of action on the bowels when partly paralyzed or excessively torpid. It is well to combine the nux with an aromatic and a laxa- ative, as : — No. 109. Powdered nux vomica, 1 drachm. Powdered aloes, 2 to 3 drachms. Ginger, 2 drachms. Mix for a ball and give one every other day. Constipation and Diarrhoea. 137 The oils are gentle and beneficial laxatives, as : — No. 110. Castor oil, 1 to 6 oz. Linseed oil, 8 oz. Mix and give in gruel. Or a mixture of soap and aloes : — No. 111. Powdered aloes, Soft soap, each 8 oz. Ginger, 4 oz. Mix and make 8 balls. Give one every morning. For cattle, a mild laxative and tonic combination, is :— No. 112. Epsom salts, i lb. (Sulphur, ■ 4 to 6 oz. Ginger, Gentian, each ^ oz. Mix in a quart of warm water for a drench. DIAERH(EA— SCOUHmG. Definition. — A condition characterised by loose, watery, and frequent discharges from the bowels without the presence of inflammation. Causes. — Indigestible or irritating food ; presence of worms; purgative medicines ; too much water ; disorders of the liver ; and constitutional tendency. Flat sided and narrow loined horses particularly, are said to scour often, without apparent cause. S3^ptoniS. — In simple diarrhoea there is a frequent ex- pulsion of half fluid discharges, brownish or clay-like in color, without offensive smell. The animal loses flesh if the disease continues, the appetite fails, and there is a general tendency to " run down." Treatment. — As sometimes a diarrhea is often the attempt of nature to get rid of injurious matters in their intestines, it is well to aid her in the effort, If such a case is seen early, therefore, a moderate dose of castor oil, or linseed oil should be given. Later in the case, this will not answer so well ; 138 Diseases of the Horse. but at all times it is well to avoid too suddenly checking the disease. When the discharges are sour and fetid, the following powder may be mixed in the food two or three times a day : No. 113. Powdered chalk, Bisulphite of soda, of each 1 oz. For one dose. When this does not bring about an early lessening of the symptoms, the following is a favorite with Prof. Williams : No. 114. Oil of turpentine, Laudanum, each i oz. Eggs, _ • 3. Beat up in a pint of warm water and give at one dose. Repeat two or three times a day. The following is recommended for this continued purging by Mr. Chawner : — No. 115. Sulphuric ether, Laudanum, each 1 oz. Tannic acid, 20 gr. Mix in a pint of gruel or flaxseed tea, and give at one dose. When the diarrhoea is owing to the action of violent purges, " superpurgation " as it is called. Prof. Williams says he knows of nothing better than the following : — No. 116. Powdered chalk. Laudanum, of each 2 oz. Mix in a quart of ilour gruel, and give every three hours tUl the purg' ing is checked. Apply hot applications to the abdomen, and do not let the horse drink cold water, which he will very much crave. Small quantities of flaxseed tea or gruel will partly allay his thirst. If he grows weak, wine or whiskey may be given him. As general prescriptions in diarrhoea Mr. Finlay Dun re- commends ; — No. 117. Spirits of camphor, 2 drachms. Tincture of chloride of iron, 1 drachm. Ether, 1 oz. For one dose in diarrhoea after the early feverish symptoms have abated. Treatment of Diarrhea. 139 No. 118. Sulphate of copper, 1 to 2 drachms. Powdered opium, 1 drachm. Give as a ball or mixed in linseed tea two or three times a day in ob- stinate watery diarrhoea. No. 119. Acetate of lead, Powdered opium, each 1 drachm. Give as the last prescription. In cases of sour discharges, griping and moderate scouring, the followino; are antacids and mild astringents which will be found serviceable : — No. 120. Pojv^dered chalk, 1 oz. Powdered opium, 1 drachm. Creasote, 20 drops. Make up with linseed meal and molasses for a ball. Instead of the creasote, carbolic acid may be used in this prescription in the same quantity. No. 121. Powdered chalk. Catechu, Ginger, each 1 oz. Opium, 1 drachm. Make up as the last. This is useful when a mere astringent effect is desired, and when the bowels have got into an irritable relaxed condition. For the same purpose, whether in horses or cattle, the follow- ing recipes also answer well : — No. 122. Powdered galls, Powdered opium, eagh 1 drachm. Chalk, ^ oz. Make into a ball, or give in gruel or linseed tea. No. 123. Powdered opium, Powdered kino, Powdered gentian, Bicarbonate of soda, each 1 drachm. To be made up and given as the last. These prescriptions may be repeated once or twice dally, until the discharges are diminished. Astringent clysters or injections are usually made up with starch water. It is a mistake to have them very copious. 140 Diseases of the Horse. From a pint to a quart is abundant in horses or cattle. Large injections are apt to increase the action of the bowels. Use- ful formulas are : — No. 124. Powdered opium, 2 drachms. Acetate of lead^ 2 drachms. Starch water, 1 qt. Throw half of this in at a time, and the remainder in half an hour to an hour. No. 125. Tannic acid, 2 to 4 drachms. Starch water, 1 pint. For one injection. INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS, ENTERITIS, Definition. — An inflammation of the lining membrane of the bowels, tending to their softening and rupture. It is often rapid in its course and very fatal, destroying life in a few hours. Causes. — The principal causes are over fatigue, cold from exposure or from washing in very cold water while the animal is heated. It is also believed to follow severe colic, excessive purging, irritating substances in the bowels, and kicks and blows on the abdomen. Symptoms. — There is general depression with the charac- teristic signs of pain in the bowels, chill, and quickened breathing ; small, frequent discharges from the bowels are also noticed. The appetite is lost, the pulse hard, wiry and quick, and the belly is tender on pressure. As the disease advances, the symptoms are very much those described under flatulent colic or tympanites (p. 134), with which inflammation of the bowels is often combined. The animal suffers severely, stamps and paws the ground; his face and eyes become haggard; cold sweats cover his body; his breathing is irregular and his pulse grows more and more rapid, small, weak and wiry. Delirium and convulsions may precede death. The marked symptoms are that throughout the Inflammation of the Bowels. 141 whole disease, in spite of the early small discharges of feces, constipation is continued and obstinate, and the belly swollen, tender and resonant. It is of the utmost importance to distinguish colic from inflammation of the bowels, as the remedies required in the two conditions are directly opposite. We quote therefore the following table from an English authority : — Symptoms of Colic. Sudden in its attack. Pulse rarely much quick- ened in the early part of the disease, but evidently fuller. Legs and ears of the natu- ral temperature. Relief obtained from rub- bing the belly. Relief obtained from mo- tion. Intervals of rest. Strength scarcely affected. Treatment. — To give strong purges, as the old farriers used to in this disease, is to double the agony of the animal and probably to kill him. Exactly the opposite treatment is to be pursued. Opium in large doses, say two drachms, must be promptly given and repeated every hour or two, until the pain is relieved. Or twenty grains of morphia may be thrown under the skin by the hypodermic syringe. Hot fomentations to the belly are useful, but not always con- venient. After the severe symptoms are past, if the bowels continue bound, injections of warm water should be used to clear them out. Symptoms of Inflammation of the Bowels. Gradual in its approach, with previous indications of fever. Pulse very much quick- ened, but small, and often scarcely to be felt. Legs and ears cold. Belly exceedingly tender, and painful to the touch. Motion evidently increases pain. Constant pain. Rapid and great weakness. 142 Diseases of the Horse. Bleeding, blistering and mustard plasters are not called for, and much more frequently do harm than good. Mr. Finlay Dun uses chloral with opium. He says he has had the best results, and often saved life in those cases of deadly enteritis which occur in heavy draught horses, by giving a hypodermic injection of chloral hydrate, forty grains, immediately followed by one of morphia, three grains, and repeating both injections in about an hour. The combination may be made for the mouth, thus : — No. 126. Chloral hydrate, 1 oz. Morphia, 10 grains. Give in syrup and water, and repeat every two hours for three or four times, or until symptoms abate. A favorite prescription of the eminent English surgeon, Mr. Barlow, for enteritis, whether in horses or cattle, was : — No. 127. Calomel, 30 grains. Laudanum, 1 oz. Mix in a pint of gruel. This he repeated every hour until three or four doses were taken, or else relief occurred. A method of treatment we can recommend is, when the case is seen early, to begin with small repeated doses of aconite : — No. 128. Tincture of aconite, 20 drops. Laudanum, 5 oz. Give in lime water every hour or two, to the extent of three or four doses. Large fomentations to the bowels are of great use. A blanket can be folded inside a rubber cloth which is fastened over the back. The blanket then can be kept thoroughly soaked with quite warm water with little trouble. If the symptoms of pain and exhaustion are relieved, the attendant need not trouble himself about the constipation. The utmost that should be done, will, be after two or three days to use injections of warm water. Dysentery. 143 Wlien the case is chronic, with pain, tenderness and tym- pany of the bowels, and a slight wearing fever, one of the most useful substances is nitrate of silver : — No. 129. Nitrate of silver, • 5 grains. Opium, ^ drachm. This amount in a ball of bread crumbs or linseed meal twice a day, gradually increased to double the dose if the disease does not yield. The diet is always of importance. Bran or meal mashes made with linseed tea or slippery elm bark tea are suitable. Boiled food is better than uncooked. Large quantities of water should not be given at once, but small quantities often repeated. In chronic cases, if the animal is fed exclusively on skim milk for a week or two, it will sometimes effect a cure without other aid. DYSENTERY, BLOOD FLUX, COLITIS. Definition. — Inflammation of the lining membrane of the large intestine near the rectum, accompanied with straining, discharge of blood and fever. Causes. — Poisonous and irritating food, exposure to cold and overwork, putrid and stagnant water, are quoted as causes. It is a rare disease among horses, but common enough in cattle, among whom it is sometimes epidemic. Some kinds of pastures seem . particularly liable to bring it on, and hence it has been known as "moor ill," "wood evil," and other such names. Symptoms. — The symptoms differ in the acute or sudden, and the chronic or long standing forms of the complaint. Acute dysentery begins with pain in the lower bowel indicated by the animal raising or arching its back, a watery, bloody discharge from the rectum, which has an offensive smell and is expelled with pain and straining, and the pres- ence of shivering followed by quick pulse, a haggard eye, great dulness, thirst, rapid emaciation and debility. The 144 Diseases of the Horse. urine is of a high color and scanty. There is tenderness on pressure on the belly, and the anus looks sore and red. In the chronic form there is great emaciation, the skin is harsh and in bad condition, the feces are dark, tinged with blood and pus, discharged with pain and of a very foul odor. There is swelling about the jaws, ulcers around the anus, sinking in of the eyes, and increasing debility. Treatment. — For acute dysentery, when seen early, the best treatment is to place the animal in a stall, give it soft, nourishing, well j)repared food and fresh tepid water in moderate quantities, and administer by the mouth the follow- ing:— Ko. 130. Castor oil, 4 oz. Laudanum, 2 oz. Linseed oil, 1 pint. For one dose. Give several large injections of simple warm water by the rectum so as to wash out thoroughly the lower bowel. Gam- gee's funnel (p. 43), is an excellent instrument for this pur- pose. The tail should be tied up and the quarters kept clean. For this stage, Mr. Chawner recommends the folloMdng: — No. 131. Sulphuric ether, Laudanum, Tincture of catechu, each 1 oz. Linseed oil, 6 oz. For one dose, followed by injections into the rectum of linseed tea. But we should prefer to begin with a moderate anodyne purge given first (No. 73). The chronic form is often very obstinate, as it may depend on a scrofulous or consumptive constitution. Careful dieting and nursing are indispensable. As for medicines, cod liver oil is the best. No. 132. Cod liver oil, 2 to 4 oz, Eggs, 4. Mix in warm water and give twice a day. Treatment of Dysentery. 145 A favorite prescription in both forms is : — Ko. 133. Calomel, 10 gr. Opium, 1 drachm. Gentian, Chalk, each 1 oz. Make either into a ball or a drench, and give once a day. If the feverish symptoms are not marked, the following answers a good purpose : — No. 134. Powdered opium. Powdered galls. Sulphate of copper, each 1 drachm. This may be repeated twice a day either for horses or cattle. "When there is much exhaustion, and the powers of life seem failing, a stimulant mixture is demanded, as : — No. 135. Spirits of camphor, 7 oz. Sulphuric ether, ^ oz. Solution of acetate of ammonia, 6 oz. Mix and give in gruel. Ipecacuanha is used by many veterinarians in acute dysentery, as : — No. 136. Powdered ipecac, 1 drachm. Powdered opium, 20 gr. Castor oil, 6 to 8 oz. Give in arrow root water or boiled starch every six hours for three or four times at the outset of the attack. Or the wine of ipecac may be used, as : No. 137. Wine of ipecac, Laudanum, Solution of potash, each 1 oz. Tincture of cantharides, ^ oz. Mix for a drench in a quart of warm gruel. This is recommended by Mr. Gamgee as a dose for an ox in long continued dysentery with weakness of the bowels. In all cases of dysentery the straining and spasms of the rectum are exceedingly painful, and should be relieved by appropriate clysters. The two most effectual agents for this purpose are opium and belladonna : — 10 146 Diseases of the Horse. No. 138. Laudanum, 3 oz. Boiled starch, 1 pint. For a clyster; to be repeated every two hours until the straining ceases. No. 139. Extract of belladonna, 2 drachms. Chloroform, J oz. Fresh milk, 1 pint. Eub up the extract in the milk, add the chloroform, and throw up the rectum with a syringe. CONGESTIOIf AND INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER — HEPATITIS — THE YELLOWS — JAUNDICE. In horses and cattle liver diseases are not very common, and when they do occur are not easily recognized. They are usually of the* forms known as congestion or torpidity of the liver, and inflammation of the organ and its covering, called in medicine " hepatitis " and " peri-hepatitis." Causes. — The general cause is too rich food and too little exercise. Horses which are kej)t for pleasure, largely fed and little worked, wdiile their stables are warm and dark," are apt to have their livers grow torpid. So also it is said that horses fed on the refuse of the malt house, a rich stimulating food, are particularly liable to the same trouble. It is more fre- quently met with in the southern than in the northern States, and more in cities than in the country. S3n^ptoniS. — The horse is dull, inactive, has a heavy head, lustreless eye, and is dainty and capricious about his food. The dung balls are small and dark colored; the urine is scanty and dark ; the pulse is faster than natural, and has a heavy beat. After a few days the whites of the eyes and the tongue turn yellow, there is tenderness on the right side over the liver when it is pressed upon, and sometimes there is lame- ness in the off shoulder. More frequently the yellows do not show very decided eymptoms. The eyes are of a dirty yellow color, the appe- Liver Diseases. 147 tite irregular, the animal spiritless, and in a generally un- thrifty condition. The bowels are constipated, and there is some slight feverishness, the thermometer ia the rectum show- ing about 101° degrees; the pulse is rather faster than na- tural. Treatment. — The first step is to change the habits of the animal, by giving him different and laxative food of a plain character, plenty of cool, fresh air, and as he improves mod- erate and abundant exercise. Internally he may take : — No. 140. Iodide of potassium, 2 oz. Liquor potassae, 1 pint. Two tablespoonfuls night and morning in a pint of water. (Chawner.) Or the following, recommended by Prof. Gamgee : — No. 141. Oil of turpentine, \ oz. Muriatic acid (diluted), 1 drachm. Powdered ginger, 2 drachms. Mix in a decoction of oak bark, and give every two days. Mercurials have long had a reputation in torpidity and congestion of the liver, and if used with moderation, and not continued long enough to salivate, there is no doubt of their usefulness. Proper formulas are : — No. 142. Calomel, ,30 gr. Aloes, powdered, 1 drachm. Soap, 2 drachms, Ehubarb, powdered, 4 drachms. Mix with syrup to make a ball, and give one twice a day until it purges moderately No. 143. Calomel, 1 drachm. Aloes, ^ 2 drachms. Mix with soap to a ball, and give one night and morning until it acts on the bowels. Many prefer to give saline purges. These are much to be preferred in the ox and cow, but as before stated, they act in an uncertain manner on the horse, sometimes purging vio- lently, sometimes having no effect. For horses the following is the best manner of giving salines for the yellows : — 148 Diseases of the Horse. No. 144. Sulphate of magnesia (Epsom salt), Sulphate of soda (Glauber salt), Common salt, each 1 lb. Essence of ginger, 1 oz. Mix these in a gallon of warm water and give about a pint once, twice or three times a day, until gentle and effectnal purgation is estab- lished. For cattle, the following similar mixture is recommended by Mr. Dun : — No. 145. Sulphate of magnesia. Common salt, each J lb. Powdered ginger, 2 oz. Mix in two quarts of water, and repeat daily until free evacuation is obtained. Often for a torjjid liver, dullness and general " bilious- ness " nothing succeeds so well as to begin with a brisk purge of aloes or salts, and follow it up by giving daily for a week the following : — No. 146. Peruvian bark, 1 oz. Powdered nux vomica, 1 drachm. Mix into a ball with meal and molasses and give every morning. INTESTINAL WORMS. In the horse two kinds of intestinal worms are found (be- sides the bot worm, which is a temporary resident only and will be described elsewhere). They both belong to the genus ascarisy and are known as the round worm, which dwells in the intestines proper, and the thread worm which lives almost exclusively in the rectum. The former is not unlike the com- mon earthworm in size ; the latter is much smaller, and re- sembles in size and color a piece of white thread an inch or so long. Symptoms. — These are not very distinctly pronounced. The coat is rough, the appetite irregular or craving, there is often itching about the anus, evinced by the desire to rub the hind quarters against walls, and there may be some emacia- tion. Worm Medidnea. 149 When worms are suspected, it is advisable to give a purge and watch the feces. Should any parasites of either kind be found, it is appropriate to commence s^^ecific treatment. Treatment. — As a vermifuge for the horse, Mr. Dun re- commends : — No. 147. Calomel, Oil of male fern, Aloes, each 1 drachm. Ginger, 4 drachms. Make into a ball with linseed meal and molasses. Or, No. 148. Oil of turpentine, 2 oz. Oil of male fern^ 1 drachm. Linseed oil, ^ pint. Give after a purge and on an empty stomach. Follow it with a few daily doses of sulphate of copper. Mr. Walsh believes that the most effectual of all vermi- fuges in the horse is tartar emetic. He prescribes it as fol- lows : — No. 149. Tartar emetic, 1 drachm. Powdered ginger, J drachm. Make into a ball with linseed meal. Give one every morning for a week on an empty stomach, and then follow with a purge of aloes. After this he allows the horse to rest a week and then re- peats the above, following the physic with a drachm of pow- dered sulphate of iron daily in the feed. For thread worms the treatment should be by injections up the rectum. Of these we can select one of the following, all of them being destructive to the worms : — No. 150. Oil of turpentine, 2 drachms. Linseed oil, , 1 pint. Use every morning for a week. No. 151. Common salt, J oz. Carbolic acid, J drachm. Water, 1 pint. Use every other day for a week. A strong decoction of tansy, of wormwood or of almost any 150 Diseases of the Horse. vegetable bitter will also dislodge the worms. Tobacco tea is efficient, but dangerous. Whatever injection is used it should be aided by a purga- tive dose, the best of which is : — No. 152. Sulphate of iron, 1 oz. Aloes. 4 dr. Mix for a ball. And also by cleanliness and smearing the anus with mer- curial ointment, to kill the eggs of the worms. THE EOTS. Definition. — A diseased condition of the horse or ox pro- duced by the irritation of the bot-fly or gad-fly. Oestrus^ through its attacks on the skin and the presence of its larvae in the intestines. Causes. — The common gad-fly of the horse attacks him late in the summer, not for the purj)ose of living on his blood, but in order to deposit its eggs on his hair, and especi- ally the hair of those parts of the body which the horse can reach with his mouth. When he licks his coat, the moisture and warmth of the saliva aid in hatching the eggs, and the small maggots within them are transferred to the mouth and next to the stomach and bowels of the horse, where they firmly fasten themselves by strong hooks with which their heads are provided. After attaining a certain period of growth they loosen their hold, are swept away with the feces and deposited on the ground, which they enter and then undergo the necessary transformations to become the perfect fly. In the form of bot-worm they usually pass the fall and winter in the horse's body, about eight months in all. Symptoms. — Very many symptoms are attributed to the bots, and that occasionally, especially in underfed horses, they cause great general and local irritation, there is no Treatment of the Bots, 1 51 doubt. But it is not possible to point out any one single symptom which positively proves their presence. They lead at times to colic, indigestion, irritation of the anus, and also to staggers, fits or convulsions, which, if they occur in winter without other assignable reason, in a horse somewhat out of condition, miy fairly be laid to the charge of the bots. But probably iu most instances, these parasites do no harm. Treatment. — The preventive treatment is by cutting the hair close in those parts of the body which the gad-fly selects, and keeping it smeared in the late summer and early autumn with a tar or turpentine ointment. Internally, give a handful of fresh unbleached wood ashes once or twice a week in the feed. To remove the bots when once lodged in the intestines, the following should be given on an empty stomach every morning, for three or four days : — No. 153. Powdered aloes, Powdered assafcetida, of each \ oz. Mix in hot water, and when cold add Oil of turpentine, Sulphuric ether, of each 1 oz. Give in gruel and linseed tea as a drench. This same is also a useful prescrij)tion for destroying tape- worm and other worms in horses. Prof. Gamgee's prescription for bots, is : — No. 154. Powdered assafcetida, 2 drachms. Powdered savin. Calomel, of each Ij drachms. Oil of male shield fern, 30 drops. Give as a ball, made up with molaoses and linseed, at night, and fol- low with an aloes purge the next morning. Still another plan is to give for three or four mornings a quarter of an ounce of sulphate of copper, made into a ball, and follow with a purgative dose of aloes, repeating this medication after a week's interval. 152 Diseases of the Horse. CHAPTER IV. DISEASES OF THE HEART, ELOOD-VESSELS AJSTD ABSORBENTS. Palpitation — Violent Heart Beat — Thumps. Enlargement or Hypertrophy of the Heart. Fatty Degeneration of the Heart. Aneurism — Enlargement of the Arteries. Inflammation of the Jugular Vein — Phlebitis, Inflammation of the Absorbent Vessels — Lymphangitis — Weed — Shot of Grease. PALPITATION— VIOLENT HEART BEAT— TZTIMPS. Definition. — A sudden, violent, convulsive beating of the heart, which may or may not be connected with some disease of the valves or substance of the organ. CauSGS. — In the horse, this is most frequently seen in pampered, highly fed animals, or in those which have very irregular and violent exercise. Many horses when frightened or excited suffer from excessive heart beat, w^hich to some extent lessens their capacity for work. If the palpitations are frequent and persistent, they indicate some serious dis- ease of the heart. Indigestion and many blood diseases are accompanied by palpitations. Symptoms. — The chief symptom is the increased violence of the heart's action. It can be readily felt, seen and heard. The pulse is irregular or intermittent. When owing to ner- vousness and temporary causes, this is usually visible in the excited eye, the rapid breathing, and in the quick diminution of the palpitation. But where there are not such signs of temporary excitement, the case is more serious as signifying organic disease of the heart, which is not curable. Palpitation of the Heart. 153 Treatment. — Careful avoidance of sudden excitement and over-exertion are to be looked to in the first place. Full doses of digitalis, say J drachm of the powdered leaves, may be given twice a day in the food for several weeks. Indi- gestion and constipation must be prevented by appropriate treatment. Frequently the digitalis may be combined with salines with advantage, as : — No. 155. Powdered digitalis leaves, 30 grains. Chlorate of potash, ^ oz. Or, nitrate of potash, 1 oz. To be given once a day. When the palpitation is associated with increased size of the heart, and a full and strong pulse, it is better to use acon- ite. No. 156. Tincture of aconite root, 20 drops. This amount may be used in the above prescription instead of the pot- ash, or dropped in the drinking water twice a day. Sometimes it is well, as Mr. Dun suggests, to begin with the aconite and when the force at the heart is reduced, to substitute for it the digitalis. Another useful agent is belladonna. It may often, es- pecially in cases where there is general debility, be advan- tageously given with nux vomica, as : — No. 157. Extract of belladonna, 1 drachm. Powdered nux vomica, ^ drachm. Mix with liquorice powdered and molasses into a ball, and give once or twice a day for a considerable time. EITLAEGEMENT OR HYPERTROPHY OF THE HEART. Causes. — Long continued overwork, constant indigestion, and diseases of the valves of the arteries lead to a growth of the heart much beyond its ordinary size, which should be considered an unsoundness. It also accompanies broken wind and other impedimcLts of free breathing. 154 Diseases of the Horse. Symptoms. — There is more or less persistent palpitation, and the sounds of the heart are much louder than in health. Slight exertion increases these symptoms in a marked manner. The breathing is often hurried. Treatment. — This condition is best combated by a moder- ate diet, and freedom from excitement, overwork and sudden exertion. Internally, the most effective remedy is aconite. This must be given in twenty or thirty drop doses (of the tincture of the root) twice a day, for a considerable time. When the enlargement is connected with broken wind or any similar impediment to the breathing. Prof. Williams recom- mends the prolonged use of small doses of arsenic, say three to five grains twice daily, in the food. In hard worked and aged horses, hypertrophy of the left side of the heart is quite common. It can very generally be relieved by commencing the treatment with a few doses of aconite and then continuing with digitalis, as recommended under palpitation (p. 153). FATTY DEGENEKATION OF THE HEABT. Definition. — A change of the muscular substance of the heart to fat, thus weakening the strength of the organ and leading to rupture of its tissues. Causes. — This is the most common change which takes place in the hearts of horses. It is generally due to advanc- ing age, to high living and lack of exercise. It is also pro- duced by other diseases, as purpura and scarlet fever. Symptoms. — There is a gradually increasing debility of the circulation, as shown by the weak and irregular pulse, and the lessening of the sounds of the heart. The legs swell and become dropsical, and the horse gives out sooner when at work. The appetite becomes capricious, the lining membrane of the mouth and nose assumes a rusty red appear- Heart Diseases. 155 aruce, and there is a want of correspondence between the beat of the heart and the stroke of the pulse. Treatment. — It is doubtful if any treatment will arrest the disease. Prof. Williams recommends for trial, chlorate of potash, say one ounce, twice daily, with attention to the general health. AlIETJEISM— EinJLRGEMENT OF THE ARTERIES. Definition, — A dilatation or expansion of a part of av artery, with thinning and weakening of its coats, and tend ing to burst into the surrounding tissue, thus forming a pul ■ sating tumor containing blood. Causes. — Generally aneurisms arise either from injuries, as a blow, a strain, a kick, a stab, or else from some change? taking place in the coats of the artery, weakening it, as for example, fatty degeneration. This is most common in old horses who show signs of heart disease. Certain worms in the arteries (the so-called Sderostoma) may also produce them in the horse. Symptoms. — There is a visible tumor, which is soft and fluctuating to the feel, and which by steady pressure can be made to disappear or partly so, but reappears as soon qs the pressure is removed. It is also felt to have a regular pulsa- tion, like the beat of the heart. Treatment. — This is not very successful. If the tumor is where it can be readily reached, steady pressure upon it by a pad and firm bandage for several days, may be successful in causing its disappearance. Some surgeons cut down upon it, tie the artery above and below, and then open the sack and turn out its contents. The complaint constitutes an unsoundness, as it is generally a permanent injury to an animal. 156 lyiseases of the Horse. niFLAMMATION OF THE JTJGTILAR VEDf— PHLEBITIS. This generally occurs as a consequence on opening the vein for bleeding, either because the surgeon has used a rusty or dirty lancet, or that the horse has rubbed and injured the vein after the operation. The inflammation may be confined to a small spot, or may extend up and down the vein, which will feel like a hard cord underneath the skin of the neck, which will be hot and inflamed to the touch, and evidently painful to the animal, especially on bending his neck. Treatment. — The best treatment for this complaint is the application of a smart cantharides blister along the course of the inflamed part. If abscesses have formed, they must be opened and washed out with carbolic acid water (one ounce of carbolic acid to a pint of water), before the blister is applied. But after this is done, the blister should be applied as directed. Inflammation of this vein always ends by transforming it into an impervious cord, so the recommendation is made that horses which have suffered from it should not be turned out to grass, as the dependent position of the head in grazing and the insufiicient channels for the return of the blood from the head, bring on dropsical swellings of the face, lips and nostrils. INFLAMMATION OF THE ABSORBENT VESSELS— 1YMPEANGITI&- WEES— SHOT OF GrRtiiLSE. Definltioik — By these various names is known a disease which commences by inflammation of the lymphatics, or ab- sorbent vessels of the hind legs, the inflammation extending to the cellular tissue, becoming chronic, and producing per- manent effusions and swelling of 'Jie limb. Causes. — Weed is generally attributed to high feeding and Treatment of Weed. 157 insufficient exercise ; or to over-feeding on green food, as fresh clover and rye grass; or to intestinal irritation of various kinds. Large coarse horses with thick legs are particularly subject to it. Sj^ptoms. — The attack is often preceded by disorders of the stomach, as colic, constipation, loss of appetite and exces^ sive thirst. Sometimes chill and shivering usher it in. The first local indication is observed in one of the hind legs, gen- erally the left. It is favored and held from the ground. On examining it, it is found swollen on its inner surface, the swelling sometimes extending from the body to the foot. There is heat of surface, tenderness to the touch, and some- times the swollen glands can be felt like cords or lumjis un- derneath the skin. The respirations and pulse are twice as fast as in health, the animal shows suffering in his face, and frequently turns his head to look at the affected limb. His nostrils are dilated and perspiration rolls from his side. The swelling increases until abscesses form, which will break in- ternally and run along the limb unless freely lanced. Horses that have once been attacked by weed are liable to a recurrence of the malady, time after time, until the limb assumes permanently an enlarged and distended condition, injuring both their appearance and their usefulness. Treatment. — When seen in the early stages, when chill and shivering are prominent, the animal should be warmly clothed, and a moderate purge given, as : — No. 158. Powdered aloes, 4 drachms. Calomel, 1 drachm. Mix and give at one dose»in a ball. Should the chill continue. Prof. Williams recommends the following as a powerful stimulant to the skin, inducing a general warmth over the whole surface of the body : No. 159. Tincture of arnica, 1 to 2 oz. For one dose, mixed with warm water. 158 Diseases of the Horse. In the second or hot stage, bleeding is often performed, but it does no good and often is an injury. It is better treatment to foment the limb well with cloths wrung out in hot water, to keep the bowels loose, and give as a drink an ounce of saltpetre in a gallon of water two or three times a day. As soon as abscesses form, they must be freely opened with a sliarp knife and dressed with cloths wrung out with carbolic acid water (an ounce of acid to the pint). In the condition called " thick leg," which results from numerous attacks of w^eed, some veterinarians give large doses of veratrum viride. But this only succeeds where the swel- ling is largely dropsical and not in true weed. This is best managed by repeated rubbings with iodine ointment, by moderate diuretics and by alteratives, as : — No. 160. Powdered resin, Nitre, each J oz. Oil of juniper, 10 drops. Mix for a ball and give once a day. Or with a tonic added : — No. 161. Sulphate of iron, 2 drachms. Cream of tartar, Flour of sulphur, each \ oz. This in a ball or drench twice a day. A stimulating mercurial ointment appropriate in such cases IS No. 162. Eed iodide of mercury, 1 drachm. Lard, 2 oz. A piece the size of a walnut to be rubbed into the swellings every day. Kidney Diseases. 159 CHAPTER V. DISEASES OF THE KIDNEYS, BLADDER AND SEX ORGANS. Inflammation of the Kidneys. Inflammation of the Bladder. Stone in the Bladdei^ — Gravel. Retention or Suppression of Urine — Strangury — Diflicult or Painful Staking. Diabetes — Profuse Staking. Black Water in Horses — Hoematuria — Azoturia. Diseases of the Sex Organs; Contraction of the Sheath; External Inflammation of the Yard; Internal Inflamma- tion of the Yard; Inflammation of the Vagina. INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS. This is a rare disease in the lower animals, being much less common than is usually supposed. Causes. — It occasionally occurs from blows and strains ; also from the irritation of gravel and kidney stones ; and most frequently from the injudicious use of cantharides, tur- pentine and croton oil, which drugs have an irritating effect on the kidneys, to which some animals are very sensitive. Cold and wet are also causes. Symptoms. — There is considerable fever with colicky pains ; a hard frequent pulse, rapid breathing and increased thirst. The mouth is hot and the bowels constipated. There is generally a stiffness in the movements, with tenderness of the loins. The animal arches his back and walks with a straddling gait. With this there is a scanty secretion 'or a total suppression of the urine. The animal makes frequent efforts to stale, but succeeds in passing but a few drops of dark and reddish water. 160 Diseases of the Horse. Should the disease advance and this supj)ression continue for several days, the horse shows signs of intoxication, loses the control of his movements, or repeats the same movement over and over again ; and death takes place from the blood poisoning. Treatment. — If the animal is seen early and is strong and full blooded, a free bleeding at the outset will be of much service. This should be followed up by an active cathartic (for instance, No. 158), which may be aided and followed M'ith advantage by repeated injections of tepid water. The loins should be wrapped in woollen cloths and kept fomented with warm digitalis tea, made by stirring a handful of the leaves into a bucket of boiling water. This remedy is highly recommended by Prof. Williams, in cases with obstinate suppression of urine. An excellent j)lan of fomenting in such cases is by a sheep skin wrung out of hot water or hot digitalis tea {p. 56). Moderate diuretics are called for, but violent and irritating ones will be very hurtful. "VVe may use : — No. 163. Sweet spirits of nitre, Solution of acetate of ammonia, each 3 oz. Give in a quart of linseed tea or mucilage of slippery elm bark. Or, No. 164. Acetate of potash, 2 oz. Powdered camphor, 2 drachms. Kub the camphor with the yolks of two eggs, and mix this and the potash with two quarts of slippery elm mucilage, and give in two doses three hours apart. INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDEB. Causes. — This affection almost never attacks the lower animals, except from external violence or from the adminis- tration of irritating medicines, as croton oil or cantharides. Symptoms. — Frequent passing of cloudy urine, the act being performed with evident pain and difficulty; fever and Diseases of the Bladder. 161 tenderness on pressure over the bladder; frequently scouring with soft, bloody and fetid feces. Treatment. — This should be by full doses of opium or morphia, the use of linseed tea, milk and whites of eggs beaten up with water as drinks. Belladonna is also useful :—' No. 165. Extract of belladonna, 1 drachm. Sweet spirits of nitre, 1 oz. Give in a drench with a quart of cold linseed tea. The following is an old and standard remedy : — No. 166. Solution of potash, 1 oZ. Extract of hyocyamus, 1 drachm. Give as above, and repeat two or three times a day. STONE IN THE BLADDER— GEAVEI. Stone in the bladder and gravel are found in st!»ilions, geldings and mares, as well as in the ox and cow. Zi these animals the hard concretions usually consist of carb»-;uate of lime. Causes. — Horses which from the nature of their vork are comjjelled to hold their urine many hours at a tim .;, as for instance hunters, are most liable to stone. The food and the water also have much to do with it. Some clovert , for ex- ample, form a large quantity of urine salts, and ter.d to the deposit of gravel; while hard water, which contain.^! carbon- ate of lime in solution, predisposes to its accretion in the bladder. Symptoms. — An early sign is some stiffness of motion in the hind limbs; unusual switching of the tail; a frequent desire to stole exhibited by the animal stretching himself out and drawing his yard, but passing little or no water. At other times the water flows with apparent ease for awhile, but suddenly stops, and the further attempts of the animal to empty his bladder are in vain. He will continue stretched 11 162 Diseases of the Horse. out for some time; and may groan, kick at his belly, and even lie down on accout of the pain. When these symptoms are observed, the attendant should " feel for the stone." This is to be done as follows : The rectum should be emptied by an injection of warm water, immediately after the horse has emptied his bladder. The hand of the operator is then to be well oiled and introduced into the rectum, and the bladder detected and examined. This can readily be done without the risk of any injury to the animal, and with the almost positive certainty of discov- ering the stone if it is there. Treatment. — In the mare, even a large stone can be re- moved by dilating the urethra, the orifice of which is about four inches inside the vagina, and then introducing a forceps. In the gelding or stallion, the surgeon has to extract it by the operation of "cutting for stone." It is not necessary to describe the steps of these manoeuvres, as they require sjjecial instruments and a knowledge of anatomy, which only belong to a professional man. The preventive measures are suggested by what has been said above about the causes of the complaint. DETENTION OR SUPPRESSION OF URINE— STRANGURY— DIFFICULT OR PAINFUL STALEING. ^Yhen it is observed that a horse stales with difficulty or pain, the cause of this condition should be carefully inquired into, as it may be of a serious nature, requiring prompt at- tention to save the animal's life. It may arise from 1. Palsy of the bladder, following an injury, meningitis, lockjaw, staggers, severe colic or other acute disease. 2. Disease of the parts, as spasm or inflammation of the neck of the bladder, stricture of the urethra, enlargeuient of Difficult Staleing. ' 163 the prostate gland in old male horses, cancer, stone in the bladder, accumulation of dirt in the sheath and excessive constipation. 3. Irritating drugs, especially cantharides and turpentine^ used carelessly, or sometimes when cautiously used in horses of a peculiar sensitiveness to their influence. This form is called "strangury," and is characterized by the frequent efforts to stale, but the passage of only a few drops at a time. Treatment. — When it appears that the suppression is ow- ing to palsy, the urine must be drawn off with a catheter several times a day, and the treatment recommended under paralysis promptly resorted to, especially the injection of strychnine under the skin. If it is due to inflammation of the neck of the bladder, as indicated by the heat, swelling and tenderness of the part, and the general feverish symptoms, general bleeding may be resorted to, and injections of warm water containing one drachm of extract of belladonna to the quart must be thrown repeatedly up the rectum, or, in mares, up the vagina. Full doses of opium may be given to relieve pain. Spasm of the neck of the bladder may be overcome by the use of the same injection. Accumulation of hardened feces in the rectum requires fre- quent and full injections of soap and water, supplemented, if necessary, by back-raking the animal. Cancer, stone and enlargement of the prostate are practically incurable, and a horse so affected might as w^ell be killed. If due to general weakness of the bladder, the following stimulant may be given : — No. 167. Powdered cantharides, 20 grains. Powdered digitalis, 1 drachm. Mix with soap into a ball. Of a more soothing and gentle action is this one :— Xo. 168. Powdered camphor, 2 drachms. Saltpetre, J oz. Mix into a ball. 164 Diseases of the Horse. In strangury from cantliarides or turpentine, the loins are to be fomented with the sheep skin wrung out in hot water, the vagina or rectum filled with an injection of starch and laudanum or belladonna (Nos. 138, 139), and internally the following drench prescribed : — Ko. 169. Powdered camphor, 1 drachm. Powdered opium, 2 drachms. Mix in a quart of linseed tea or slippery elm water, and repeat every hour until relieved. DIABETES-PROmSE STALEING. DGfinition. — A disease characterized by great thirst, and excessive discharge of urine, progressing toward loss of flesh, weakness, and exhaustion, sometimes leading to farcy, glan- ders, and a general break down of the system. Causes. — By some writers it is attributed to faulty feeding of various kinds, or to the use of drugs which over-stimu- late and irritate the kidneys. It is believed that hay which has been heated in curing or is musty, damp and mouldy oats, and half spoiled bran are liable to bring it on. Habit- ual feeding on boiled food is a common cause, and sometimes it appears to arise from some contagious poison, as when glanders is prevalent, horses are particularly liable to it. Symptoms. — The main ones are the inordinate thirst and the corresponding unusual staleiug. The appetite generally fails, the skin becomes harsh and dry, and the animal loses flesh and strength. The pulse is weak, sometimes slower sometimes faster than natural. The horse shows a depraved appetite, licking the walls and floor of his stall. The urine discharged is as clear as water, and with little or no odor. It often amounts in quantity to 20 to 40 pints daily. Treatment. — The first attention will be to the diet, which should be completely changed. Then a mild laxative may Profuse Staleing. 165 be given, say a pint of linseed oil, and a tablespoonful or two of powdered chalk or baking soda be mixed with the pail of drink. For the cure we rely on iodine, which was first dis- covered by the English veterinarian. Professor Dick, to be almost a specific in this disease. A convenient formula is : No. 170. Iodine, 20 grains. Iodide of potassium, 1 drachm. Carbonate of soda, 4 drachms. This dose to be given three times a day in water. Or, as recommended by Mr. Chawner, we may give :— No. 171. Fowler's solution of arsenic, 1 oz. This amount in a pint of water morning and evening. The formula preferred by Mr. Finlay Dun is : — No. 172. Iodine, ^ drachm. Sulphate of iron, 2 drachms. Powdered gentian, J oz. Make into a ball with molasses, syrup or meal and water. This dose is to be given once, or in bad cases, twice daily; rarely are more than six doses required to effect a perfect cure. Other receipts of service in various instances are : — No. 173. Iodide of potash, 6 drachms. Alum, powdered, h oz. Mix into twelve balls, and give one morning and evening. No. 174. Creasote, * h drachm. Vinegar, 3 oz. Give daily in a pint of water. BLACK WATER OF HORSES-HaiMATTmiA— AZOTTJRIA. Definition. — A disease of the general system, characterized by a large excess of urea in the blood, by urine of a dark coifee color, and by spasms of the muscles of the hind quar- ters. This is not a common disease, and its exact nature is as yet open to question. It attacks both horses and mares, but es- 166 Diseases of the Horse. pecially the latter during the period of heat. The color of the urine was supposed by Prof. Gamgee to be owing to blood; but Prof. Williams found no blood corpuscles what- ever in the urine, but nitrate of urea and hippuric acid in excess. Mr. Haycock called it the "hysteria of mares/' but it is by no means confined to the female sex. Causes. — Its exciting causes are the period of heat ; sud- den exertion after a long rest in the stable ; congestion and torpidity of the lungs and liver. Symptoms. — The attack begins suddenly. The horse is unusually restless, sweats profusely, and inclines to lie down. Shortly a loss of power in the hind limbs is observed, their larger muscles are seized with violent spasms, sometimes in- volving the shoulders. The pulse and respiration are very rapid. There is soon entire paralysis or great stiffening of the hind quarters. With these symptoms, large quantities of a dark urine, looking like coffee, are ejected. The breath- ing grows difficult, symptoms of general spasms resembling tetanus supervene, and the horse dies. Sometimes it attacks several horses in the same stable, but there is nothing whatever contagious in it. The duration of the disease is brief, three or four days either destroying the animal or the symptoms passing off. Treatment. — The animal should be placed in a large sta- ble with abundant bedding ; if he lies down paralyzed, he is to be turned over several times a day. The first step is to obtain a free action of the bowels. For this purpose the following, which also acts on the kidneys, is appropriate : — No. 175. Powdered aloes, 4 to 6 drachms. Cream of tartar, 1 to 2 oz. Mix in a pint or two of warm water. This should be repeated if it does not act in five to six hours. Meanwhile an active clyster is to be thrown up the Diseases of the Sex Organs. 167 rectum, as a quart of soap and water with four ounces of oil of turpentine. Cold water should be allowed in any quantity. No stimulants and no sedatives are to be administered, no blisters, firing or bleeding. When the violence of the disease is overcome, it requires some persuasion to get the horse on his legs. He will con- tinue to lie when it is quite possible for him to stand, and this must be prevented by lifting him on his feet, briskly rubbing the legs, and if need be, supporting him by the slings. Now is the time when a nerve and general tonic is required, and we would select this one: — No. 176. Sulphate of iron, 2 drachms. Powdered nux vomica, 1 drachm. Give as a ball three times day. Complete rest, a rather low and plain diet, and abundance of air in a yard or field are required for several weeks, as re- lapses occasionally occur from too early use. DISEASES OF THE SEX OBGANS. The sex organs in the horse are subject to contagious as well as occasional diseases. It has been definitely shown that a disease identical with syphilis is propagated by copu- lation. Many instances are recorded on the continent of Europe, but we have heard of none in this country ; so we shall not enter into its description, but confine ourselves to the disorders of common occurrence. 1. Contractions of the Sheath. These are generally contractions, either in front of the yard, thas impeding the escape of the urine, or behind its extremity, so that the yard cannot be withdrawn into the sheath (phimosis and para-phimosis). 168 Diseases of the Horse. In both these cases the free use of cold water on the sheath will dimmish any inflammation present ; and then by wip- ing dry and oiling the parts well, careful manipulation will overcome the difficulty. When this fails, an incision may be made to relieve the constriction. The bleeding thus caused will be a benefit. When the paraphimosis is the result of paralysis, as is sometimes seen in old geldings, the case is incurable, and the only resort is amputation of the organ. 2. External Inflammation of the Yard. Inflammation of the end of the yard is very common, being brought on by the presence of irritating substances, as the natural secretions when decomposed, or some foreign body. At first there is a slight discharge of whitish or yellowish matter, which is followed by ulcers on the yard and sheath, usually emitting a decidedly unpleasant peculiar odor. They may fill up with proud flesh and cause great pain and un- sightly swelling. Proper attention will always prevent this trouble. And when it is present, we must give it careful attention, for it is no easy matter to bring about cure when in a neglected state. The parts must first of all be well cleansed, by syringing with warm water and soap, or by a weak carbolic acid solu- tion (one drachm to a quart of warm water). The following solution should then be wrapped on the parts, or syringed into the sheath : — No. 177. Chlorate of zinc, 2 drachms. Water, 1 pint. This is a powerful caustic solution, and its application will be severely painful. But milder ones will not prove effectual. It must be repeated every day until the granulations are reduced and the part has taken on healthy action. Diseases of the Sex Organs. 169 3 Internal Inflammation of the Yard. This occurs in the gelding as well as- in the stallion : in the latter, generally from too frequent service ; in the former, from the use of cantharides, crotou oil or turpentine, or from the presence of foreign bodies in the urethra. The symptoms are, a frequent desire to urinate, the act performed with difficulty ; frequent extension of the organ ; and a discharge of a whitish or yellowish matter from the urethra. The treatment is to foment the parts with hot water (the hot sheep skin), to administer a moderately brisk purge, and to give the animal freely of bi-carbonate of soda, an ounce iu water several times a day. These means failing, an ulcer in the urethra may be suspected. The horse must then be cast, the parts inside the urethra examined, and any ulcerated surfaces touched with nitrate of silver, aud injections of weak sulphate of zinc solutions, one-half to one drachm to the pint of water, to be made. 4. Inflammation of the Vagina. This is a rare disease in the mare. When it occurs, it is usually due to violence of the stallion when serving; to diffi- cult labor; to the presence of cancers and ulcers; or to local violence, as by inserting a stick or cob into the vagina, an insensate piece of mischief not so rare as it ought to be. The inflammation shows itself by a swelling and tender- ness of the parts, and by a discharge of a watery or purulent matter. In the treatment the principal precaution to observe is not to irritate further the parts by strong injections. Linseed tea or slippery elm bark mucilage, made warm, and containing a drachm of sugar of lead to the pint, are the best injections which can be used in most cases. If the discharge is foul sulphate of zinc may be used instead of the lead. 170 Diseases of the Horse. CHAPTER yi. DISEASES OF THE BLOOD, OE GENERAL DISEASES. Glanders. Farcy — Bud Farcy — Button Farcy. Charbon in the Horse — Purpura Hemorrhagica — Spotted Fever. Rheumatism. Strangles — Colt Distetnper. Frysipelas — St. Anthony's Fire. Dropsy — Ascites. 6LAKDEBS. DGfinition. — A contagious and fatal disease, due to a poison taken into or generated in the system, wliich shows its pre- sence by a discharge from the nostrils, and a degeneration more or less rapid of the lympliatic glands and ducts. The poison can be conveyed to man, in whom it i>roduces fatal illness. Causes. — The causes of this common and formidable dis^ ease, apart from contagion, are usually said to include every- thing that exhausts and reduces the vital powers, such as bad feeding, over-work, neglect, foul air and filthy stables. It is also liable to be generated by putting horses into new stables whose walls are not dry ; and it is a frequent sequel of dia- betes, influenza, the epizootic disease, and other exhausting complaints. As caused by contagion, it is very justly the most dreaded of all diseases of horses, as it is easily inoculated into the human species, and is just as incurable as in the horse. In the latter, however, inoculation is not necessary, as the jDoison is disseminated by more subtle means. Sometimes stables Glanders. 171 which have liveried glandered horses have been thoroughly cleansed, aired and whitewashed; yet a new and healthy set of horses being placed in the stalls, one or more of them would be down with the glanders in a few weeks. Symptoms. — Glanders occurs in two forms, the acute and the chronic. Acute glanders appears suddenly by j^rolonged chills and shiverings. As they pass off a high fever sets in, the tem- perature running up to 106 or 107 degrees. The pulse is feeble and rapid, the breathing quick, and the apj)etite fails. The eyes are weak and watery, and the glands under the jaw are swollen. On examining the nostrils, their lining mem- brane is found to be swollen and of a dark coppery or red color, with patches of ragged ulceration here and there, from which drips a bloody and watery discharge. The swollen glands of the face and neck soon break and form abscesses with a similar sanious pus coming from them. The animal rapidly weakens, the breathing becomes obstructed, the lungs become inflamed, and death ends the scene. Chronic glanders presents this same history in a much slower and apparently milder, but in reality none the less fatal form. The general health may seem to be scarcely affected. There will be a discharge, often from one nostril, usually the near one, of a thin, sticky fluid, which has not a very un- pleasant odor, sometimes no odor at all, and wdiich dries and accumulates around the nasal opening. On feeling beneath the jaw, the swollen glands will be felt like a hard knot, which may, however, disajspear for a time to return again. The membrane of the nostril will prove to have a tawny, coppery or dull leaden hue. The eye of the affected side will be weak and watery. Usually the symptoms are more decided than this. The horse is off his feed, his coat is unhealtliy, he has a slight cough, and sweats on slight exertion. There is a discharge 172 Diseases of the Horse. of a starchy or gluey matter from one or both nostrils, often tinged with blood. The lining membrane of the nose is studded with small deep ulcers, and betNveen the ulcers cov- ered with unhealthy looking pimples. The eye of the aifected side is weak and watery. A distinct tumor can be felt below the jaw, sometimes forming an abscess discharging an un- healthy pus. If well taken care of, a horse may live in this condition for a year or two and do moderate work ; but he is liable at any time to be carried off by an acute attack of the disease, and he is constantly an object of great danger, not only to other individuals of his own species, but to every person who comes near him. Between the time of receiving the contagion into the sys- tem and the appearance of the disease, there usually elapses in the acute form but three to six days ; while in the chronic form it may be two or three months. Treatment. — Some of the best authorities recommend that no treatment be attempted in glanders. It is considered more desu*able for the animal and his attendants that he be killed as soon as the nature of the disease is recognized. A positive law to this effect exists in England, and it might be well if it were adopted by all the States in this country. A vast number of remedies and receipts have been sug- gested and various cures have been reported. They should be accepted with hesitation, as it is quite likely that a nasal gleet of some kind was mistaken for glanders. We shall give several prescriptions which have had the most said in their favor, but our general advice is, as already given, to kill every glandered horse as soon as he is determined to be so. Sulphate of copper and arsenic have had the most said in their favor. They may be given alone or combined, as : — No. 178. Sulphate of copper, 1 drachm. Peruvian bark, 1 oz. Mix for a ball. Glanders and Farc^. 173 No. 179. Sulphate of copper, 1 drachm. Arsenic, 8 grains. Mix with linseed meal and sjrup to a ball. No. 180. Sulphate of copper, 1 drachm. Corrosive sublimate, 8 grains. Mix as above for a dose. No. 181. Syrup of the iodide of iron, ^ oz. To be given twice a day. This latter is certainly effectual in curing many obstinate nasal gleets which have been called glanders. Whatever medicine is used, a full and nutritious diet, moderate work, and a clean, well aired stable, with thorough disinfection are all indispensable to success. FAECY— BUD FAECY— BUTTON FARCY. Definitlcn. — A contagious and malignant disease, charac- terized by swelling and ulceration of the lymphatic glands beneath the skin, and believed to arise from the same blood poison which causes glanders. Causes. — The most common cause is direct inoculation of glanders or farcy poison ; but the infection may also be pro- pagated through the air ; and the disease may appear spon- taneously after exhausting disease or in old age. It is con- sidered certain that the same poison produces both glanders and farcy, and that the only difference in the diseases is iu the part of the system attacked. Symptoms. — Farcy, like glanders, is divided into an acute and chronic form. In acute farcy the early signs are shiverings, fever, loss of appetite and swelling of the legs. The whole limb becomes enlarged, resembling that in weed (p. 157), but presenting an uneven surface, increasing and decreasing suddenly, and attended with pain and lameness. When the swelling lessens, the enlarged glands can be felt under the skin forming cords 174 Diseases of the Horse. and small rounded lumps, which latter are the so-called "farcy buds." These in a little while point and burst through the skin, discharging an unhealthy pus. They are usually found in groups, and are situated at some distance from the joints. Frequently the inside of the thighs will be found to present hard and painful swellings ; the muscles of the neck may be hard and painful ; or the swelling may be in the side or in one leg ; thus leading perhaps to the suspicion of rheuma- tism. In chronic farcy, the principal difference is that the buds and hard cords connecting them are distinctly felt and are evidently tender and painful, but they rarely pass into ulcer- ation. The buds or buttons are arranged in groups about the inner and outer aspects of the thigh, forearm, flanks, neck and head. Sometimes they may be felt along the course of the jugular vein, presenting swollen, hard and irregular knots. Treatment. — A horse with acute farcy should be forth- with killed. He is as dangerous as one with glanders. The milder cases of chronic farcy offer some chance of a cure. The swellings may often be dispersed by blistering them, or by rubbing them with, ointment of the biniodide of mercury, or what is handier, with a stick of lunar caustic. If there are running sores, they must be frequently washed with a ten per cent, solution of carbolic acid. The strength must be supported by nourishing food and tonics. Prof. Williams recommends : — No. 182. Arsenic, 5 grains. Extract of nux vomica, 1 drachm. For a drench in a pint of water twice a day. He also speaks well of : — No. 183. Sulphate of copper, Iodine, of eacli This amount in a pint of water twice daily, No. 183. Sulphate of copper. Iodine, of each 1 drachm. Treatment of Farcy. 175 Cases of farcy and nasal gleet, with enlarged glands and a fetid discharge, are sometimes benefitted, according to Mr. Dun, by the following : — No. 184. Creasote, 1 draclim. Sulphuric acid (dilute), 30 drops. Make into a ball with linseed meal, and give every morning. For a dressing for farcy buds, Mr. Dun recommends the ointment of iodide of mercury (No. 162). As a tonic ball in this disease, Mr. Gamgee uses this com- bination : — No. 185. Sulphate of copper, Sulphate of zinc, each i drachm. Aniseed, 3 drachms. Make into a ball with common mass, and give once a day. As an ointment for dressing the buds, we may use No. 186. Corrosive sublimate, 1 drachm. Arsenic, i drachm. Lard, 1 oz. This is a strong stimulant, and must be used in small quantities and cautiously. A useful soothing application is : — No. 187. Bromide of potassium, 2 drachms. Lard, 1 oz. Mix at gentle heat and rub on the buds. CHAKBON IN THE HORSE — PTIRPTIRA HEMORRHAGICA — SPOTTED FEVER Definition. — A malignant epidemic fever, arising from blood poisoning, usually attacking old and debilitated sub- jects, characterized by deposits of dark red or purple color, passing into ulceration. The name purpura should not be applied to this disease, as it is widely different from that complaint as it appears in the human subject. Professor Blaine calls it "malignant typhus," and it certainly resembles that disease, as mach as any other in man. It is in all probability a form of true 176 Diseases of the Horse. charbonous or anthracose disease, but is much less fatal in horses than in cattle, sheep or swine, and presents vai'ious other marked differences. CailS6S. — Purpura is found in old and broken down ani- mals, and is especially apt to arise at the close of exhausting diseases, as pneumonia, influenza, the epizootic, catarrhal fever, etc. Its direct cause is nearly always from bad venti- lation, imperfect drainage, and neglect of sanitary precautions. AYhen such precautions are properly taken, purpura is scarcely ever seen. The absorption of the products of decomposition into the body leads to a change in the blood, rendering it fluid, and destroying its vitality, so that the walls of the ves- sels soften and break down, and the blood flows into the sur- rounding tissues, causing the dark spots characteristic of the disease. Symptoms. — The animal is weak, languid and unwilling to move. On examining his mouth, spots of a dard red or mulberry color are visible on its lining membrane. The tongue has a peculiar dark claret color. Sometimes there is an oozing of blood from the nose and mouth, dark in color and fetid in odor. There is swelling of the legs, lips and other dependent parts, of a peculiar character ; it extends perhaps the whole length of the limb, and ends at its upper border very abruptly, as if a string had been tied around the part. Tlie swelling is painful, hot and hard. Around the hock and fetlock joints small vesicles or blisters about the size of a pea appear, which burst and discharge a scalding fluid ; and around the bend of the limbs cracks, and fissures are formed, from which an unhealthy purple colored discharge flows. Great swelling of the face, lips, nostrils and eyelids some- times occurs. The skin over the swelling may ulcerate, caus- ing unhealthy sores. The boAvels are either constipated or there is diarrhoea. Colicky pains are apt to come on, and the feces to be mixed Purpura or Spotted Fever. 177 with blood. The urine is dark colored and has a strono; smell. The more severe symptoms are remittent in their charac- ter ; they may appear very threatening one day, seem almost gone the next day, but return with the same or greater vio- lence. Therefore the physician should be cautious Low he pronounces the animal decidedly better. TrGatment. — It is of first importance to remove the ani- mal to a clean, well drained, well ventilated stable. Purga- tives are dangerous and bleeding as good as fatal. What is wanted is to relieve the bowels when there is constipation or irritation by a free injection or by a moderate dose of oil ; and to administer something which will check the action of the poison on the system. The most successful of all drugs for this purpose is chlorate of potash y for the discovery of the appli- cation of which in this disease we have to thank Prof. Wil- liams. He gives half an ounce at a dose, and repeats it twice in the twenty-four hours. A larger dose must not be given, as it is liable to cause irritation of the bowels. Under this medicine the results are most satisfactory ; the swellings , rapidly diminish, and restoration to health ensues, in the great majority of cases. The treatment preferred by Mr. Chawner is one to act on the kidneys and keep up the strength. He prescribes : — No. 188. Solution of acetate of ammonia, 2 oz. Oil of turpentine, Tincture of chloride of iron, each 1 oz. This amount, in a pint of gruel, three or four times a day. Or instead of this : — No. 189. Sulphate of iron, Powdered gentian. Powdered camphor, Nitrate of potash, each 2 dr. For one ball, to be given night and morning. The swollen parts may be bathed with vinegar and water, 12 178 Diseases of the Horse, and if the swelling becomefs excessive, may be freely scarified with the lancet. The convalescence in this disease is often very prolonged, and the owner must make up his mind to do without the use of the animal many weeks if he would see him recover to ad- vantage. As a valuable internal stimulant in this and simi- lar low fevers, Mr. Gamgee speaks highly of mustard : — No. 190. Powdered mustard seed, Powdered juniper berries, Flowers of sulphur, each 6 oz. This to be added to a quarter peck of oat meal, and three or four table- spoonfuls given several times a day. The same authority has derived advantage from the min- eral acids in conditions of exhaustion, as — No. 191. Muriatic acid, Or sulphuric acid, of either 30 drops. Water, 1 oz. Give three times a day, in a pint of ale. BHEUMATISM. Definition. — An inflammation of the joints, tendons, liga- ments or muscles, due to an unhealthy condition of the blood, accompanied by stiffness and lameness. The inflammation changes its seat from one part of the body to another, and very rarely passes into suppuration. Causes. — In animals it may occasionally arise, in weak and old subjects, from exposure,. to cold and damp, but usually fol- lows or accompanies catarrhs, colds, influenza or other disor- ders. It appears in some instances to be hereditary, and to arise from a natural predisposition. ■ Symptoms. — The two forms of rheumatism are the acute and the chronic. Acute rheumatism, sometimes called rheumatic fever, be- gins with sudden lameness, with or without swelling of some particular joint. There are signs of fever, indicated by Treatment of Rheumatism. 179 dullness, quickened pulse, hot skin, often perspiring (but not with the sour smell noticed in the disease in man), and thirst. The appetite is poor, the bowels generally constipated, the urine high colored and scanty. Very often the lameness will be in the joints on both sides of the body. Quite fre- quently it rapidly changes its seat, passing from one joint to another and back again to its first seat. It is confined to no particular part, and may pass from the legs to the neck, caus- ing a stiifness of the neck, commonly known as " the chords," or " the cords ; " or to the back, when it is called " lumbago ; " or to the heart, leading to inflammation of its envelope, or "pericarditis," always a dangerous complication. When in the joints, it produces a considerable swelling, soft and puffy, tender to the touch, and slow to disappear. Clironic rheumatism is not so liable to change its seat. It attacks a joint and brings about grave changes in its struc- ture, such as ulceration of the cartilage and increase of bony deposit around it. The lameness so produced is obstinate to treatment, and the tendency of the disease to return on the slightest exposure is very great. Fever is generally entirely absent in chronic rheumatism, and the general condition of the animal may remain quite good. Treatment. — In the treatment of acute rheumatism the most important discovery of modern times is the use of sall- cijUo acid. This, if given early and freely, and backed by ])roper nursing and care, will cut short nearly every case. The following is a proper formula : — No. 192. Salicylic acid, Bicarbonate of soda, each 1 oz. Mix in a pint of water or gruel, and give as a drench, three or foifr times a day. ** The body should be well wrapped, the stable kept at a moderate temperature, and if necessary, the slings should be applied. If there is much constipation it is usually custom- 180 Diseases of the Horse. ary to give a purge, but it is doubtful whether this does any good. Bleeding is of no benefit whatever. When the salicylic acid is not at hand, the next best re- medy is nitrate of potash (saltpetre). Tliis may be freely administered, by dissolving two or three ounces daily in the water. Or it may be combined as recommended by Mr. Chawney, in the following prescription : — No. 193. Nitrate of potash, h oz. Powdered colchicum, 1 drachm. Oil of turpentine, 1 oz. This to be mixed with linseed oil and given at one dose, night and morning. Blisters to the inflamed parts are very useful in reducing the swelling. Mr. Finlay Dun has relieved rheumatism in both horses and cattle by — No. 194. Calomel, Quinine, of each 20 grains. Give as a ball once a day. In the more chronic forms, the same writer recommends :— No. 195. Carbonate of potash, Nitrate of potash, each 1 oz. Iodide of potash, 2 drachms. Give in a pint or twa of water. Where the horse is stiffened and partially paralyzed by re- peated attacks, but when there is no actual deformity of the- joints, very great benefit may be occasionally obtained by giving— No. 196. Powdered nux vomica, 1 to 2 drachms. Gentian, J oz. Give night and morning, beginning with the smaller dose and increas- ing. The joints and muscles to be well rubbed with a stimulating liniment. The local treatment of rheumatic swellings and stiffening of the joints is by liniments and embrocations, firing and setons. i Hheumaiism. 181 Of useful liniments we give the following : — Ko. 197. Oil of turpentine, Laudanum, Soap liniment, each 1 oz. Tincture of capsicum, 1 drachm. This is a soothing and stimulating embrocation. No. 198. Solution of ammonia, Spirits of camphor, Olive oil, equal parts. Petroleum or kerosene, well rubbed in, is both often of great service, and some recommend giving kerosene by tlie mouth, in doses of two or three tablespoonfuls in a pint of gruel. One of the best of local applications in the form of an oint- ment is the oleate of mercury, made by heating oleic acid with red precipitate. It is remarkably penetrating, and not at all likely to salivate. SISAITGLES— COLT DISTEMFEB. Definition, — A disease of the system, accompanied by fever, generally attacking young horses, associated with swelling of the glands beneath the jaw, and sometimes elsewhere, with a tendency to suppuration. It has been called by Mr. George Armitage "specific adenitis." Causes. — The cause of strangles is not known. Veterin- arians are not even agreed as to whether it is contagious or not ; nor as to whether a horse can have it twice or not. The best authorities incline to the opinion that it is not con- tagious, and that some horses are liable to have it several times. Though generally appearing in horses from a few months to six years old, it is not confined to any age. It has at times been considered an epizootic influenza, but it dif- fers essentially from the disease we described as such on page 109. 182 Diseases of the Horse. S3nuptoniS. — The attacks differ considerably in severity, the graver forms being called "bastard strangles." Usually it begins like a common cold. The animal is dull, has a slight cough and sore throat, loss of ajipetite and un- willingness to swallow. There is some running from the nose and mouth, a quickened pulse and rapid breathing. On feeling in the space within the lower jaw bone, a hot and tender swelling will be noticed, sometimes on one side only, sometimes filling up the whole space. At other times, for weeks or months before there is any positive sign of disease, the animal is unthrifty, hide bound, dull, easily chilled, with a slight cough, and losing flesh. In this condition he is often said to be " breeding strangles," an opinion verified finally by the appearance of the characteris- tic swelling under the chin. A more alarming mode of onset is when the swelling is sud- den and great, filling up the mouth and bringing on those symptoms of strangulation from which the disease derives its name. There is great difficulty of breathing, accomj)anied by a loud blowing sound. The animal is in great distress, and unless promptly relieved is liable to die from suffocation. Any of these forms may terminate in bastard strangles, •which is when the disease passes into a typhoid condition, with great exhaustion, extensive suppuration in various parts of the body, and exhausting discharges. Treatment. — In a light attack of strangles it is enough to give the animal good nm*sing, apply a large poultice or hot fomentations to the swollen glands, and put an ounce of salt- petre in the water pail, night and morning. If the tumor points and bursts, it may be poulticed and left to itself ; but if it seems slow to do 'this, and does not diminish, it is best to put on a fly blister, to " bring it to a head" promptly. It may then be opened with a lance. Where a horse is suspected of " breeding strangles," he Strangles. 183 should be well stabled and fed on extra good nourishment, as this variety of disease is most apt to be followed by dan- gerous internal symptoms. Neither in it nor in any other form of the complaint should bleeding, purging or lowering medicines, like aconite, digitalis, veratrum or lobelia, be used. If there is danger of strangling, from the rapid growth of the swelling, we may try very hot fomentations and poultices to the throat, making the animal inhale steam, and opening the abscess freely as soon as it "points." But it will not do ta waste time with these measures in desperate cases. There is then one only step to take, and that is to open the windpipe at once, by the operation known as " tracheotomy." This is to be performed in the following manner : — Have an assistant, elevate the horse's head and extend his nose so as to put the skin of the throat on the stretch ; then feel along the course of the windpijje for the part least covered with flesh and fat, and make a bold incision down its central line, about four inches long, through the skin and down to the rings of the windpipe. When this is done, introduce the point of a sharp-pointed knife between the upper exposed rings, and cutting downward, divide two or three of them completely across from above downward and in the middle line of the neck. Introduce the tube into this opening, and fasten its strings around the neck and to the mane. It should be kept in until the animal is able to breathe through the nos- trils, which can be readily ascertained by closing the tube with the hand from time to time. When the swelling; is languid and does not " come to a head," it should be stimulated by painting it with tincture of iodine, or friction with iodine ointment (No. 8). Should this not affect the swelling promptly, a blister should be ap- plied to the part. When the ulcers which remain after the abscess breaks are not disposed to heal, they must be touched with the stick of 184 Diseases of the Horse. nitrate of silver, with dilute nitric acidj or dressed with resin cerate, or the following : — 1^0.199. Iodide of mtrcury, 1 drachm. Lard, 1 oz. To use as a dressing spread ou soft leather or linen. No. 200. Creasote, 1 or 2 parts. Lard, 8 parts. Use as the last. Tonics are quite important in these cases, to hasten the healing of the ulcers and improve the general strength, as : — No. 201. Sulphate of iron, Ginger, each 4 oz. Mix with enough common mass to make ten balls, and give one twice a day. Cod-liver oil internally, in doses of 3 or 4 ounces, also greatly aids in convalescence. Many sluggish cases are owing to a scrofulous taint in the system, according to Prof. Gam- gee, and for such nothing could be better than — No. 202. Cod-liver oil, 2 oz. Iodine, 20 grains. Mix with a pint of fresh milk and give on an empty stomach, twice a day. One of the late writers on this disease, Mr. George Armi- tage (in the Highland Sac. Agric. Report, 1878), justly says that the whole treatment consists " in the production of the discharge of the abscess." It is possible, by biniodide of mercury ointment, to disperse it. But nearly always this is followed by the sudden death of the animal, through some obscure form of blood poisoning. It would appear that there is some specific poison which requires to find an exit from the body by the discharge of the contents of the abscess ex- ternally. Erysipelas. 185 ESYSIPELAS— ST. ANTHONY'S FIEE. Definition. — An inflammation of the skin and tissues be- neatii, owing to a blood poison, characterized by a swelling and hardness of the aiFected parts, which has a tendency to spread and form abscesses. Cause. — This is supposed to be, primarily, some alteration in the blood. In horses and cattle erysipelas is nearly always the result of wounds, and generally of those in the legs of animals weakened by hard work and poor food, or else in young animals whose blood is vitiated by the poison of glan- ders or some other animal contamination. S3fniptomSi — Generally on the third or fourth day after receiving the injury the skin in the immediate neighborhood of the wound is found swollen, smooth, shining, hot, tender and painful. The swelling gradually extends around it, and sometimes deep into the muscles. The surface is hard and tense, but often when the finger is firmly pressed upon it and withdrawn, a little pit or depression is left. Blisters on the surface and abscesses beneath the skin are frequently seen. The general symptoms correspond with the severity of the local disease. In the lighter form the animal is fevered, loses appetite, and is lame in the aifected limb. In severe cases there are severe chills, the pulse is weak and quick, the breathing hurried, the bowels constipated, and the urine scanty and high colored. There is no appetite, but excessive thirst. All the signs of a low typhoid state may follow, the ab- scesses burrowing deeply between muscles and into joints, and the animal dying of exhaustion. Treatment. — In all cases begin with a brisk purge, aided by injections if it does not act promptly. It is important to 186 Diseases of the Horse. stimulate the bowels decidedly. If there is much fever, add 20 drops of tincture of aconite root to the water every few hours; Prof. Williams justly remarks that this drug has a most marked effect in allaying the irritation and fever in this disease. As soon as the bowels have freely acted, prepare the fol- lowing : — ISTo. 203. Tincture of chloride of iron, 2 to 4 drachms. Peruvian bark, 1 oz. (Or quinine, 30 grains.) jyiix and give as a drench, in water, every four hours. For applications to the part we have a choice of several. The Scotch veterinarians prefer belladonna, smearing the parts freely with the extract rubbed up with an equal quantity of oil or lard ; or combined with aconite as a lotion. No. 204. Extract of belladonna, 1 oz. Tincture of aconite^ ^ oz. Water, 1 qt. Eub up together and paint on the part frequently. French surgeons prefer the sulphate of iron. No. 205. Powdered sulphate of iron, 1 oz. Lard, 4 oz. Mix and smear well on the swollen parts and the healthy skin near them. Or the swelling may be painted with tinctm-e of the chlor- ide of iron; or a strong solution of nitrate of silver, two drachms to the ounce of water. DROPSY— ASCITES. Definition, — An accumulation of watery fluid in the cavity of the abdomen, in the sheath, legs, and other dependent por- tions of the body. Causes. — Generally dropsy is a result of disease of the heart or liver ; but sometimes it appears in animals which have been kept long on poor and insufficient food, in low and Dropsy. 187 ill-drained pastures. In the ox it not unfrequently is due to a scrofulous state of the system, characterized by growths in the lining membrane of the abdomen called '' grapes." Symptoms, — These are plainly apparent in the " pot belly " of the animal, which can readily be recognized as due to the presence of fluid by the dull sound it yields on percussion, and by the feeling of fluctuation or fluid motion it imparts to the hand. If there is any doubt, a small quantity may be drawn off with a fine trocar. This condition is nearly always preceded by one of general poor health, often with signs of heart or liver disease, weak- ness and languor. As the fluid increases, the breathing be- comes more difficult, the bowels irregular, the pulse feeble, and the coat loose and unthrifty. The swelling of the legs impedes the motions, and the animal dies of exhaustion. Treatment. — The probabilities of success in this depends much on the cause of the dropsy. When it is due to heart or liver disease the prospects are far from cheering, and some writers recommend the animal to be killed. But when poor food and unhealthy surroundings have led to the condition, it may be removed by placing the patient in a dry, clean and well ventilated stable, giving a generous and nourishing diet, and administering, internally, tonics and diuretics, as — No. 20G. Powdered (Jigitalis, 1 dr. Sulphate of iron, ^ oz. Mix for one ball, morning and night. No lowering medicines whatever should be used. If the water in the belly is extensive, and does not promptly diminish by medicine and proper food, it should be drawn off by a trochar, which should be plunged into the most de- pendent portion ; this may be repeated as often as the accu- mulation of fluid demands it. The class of medicines known as " diuretics," which exert 188 Diseases of the Horse. their action on the kidneys, find in this disease an appro- priate sphere. The usual diuretic mass of the Edinburgh veterinary college is made thus : — No. 207. Soap, Nitrate of potash, each 2 lbs. Resin, 3 lbs. Venice turpentine, 2 lbs. Oil of turpentine, =} pint. Melt the soap and resin over a slow fire ; when cooling stir in the other articles. The dose of this mass is two ounces, made into a ball with a little linseed meal. An efficient diuretic drench may be made thus :- No. 208. Sweet spirits of nitre, 2 oz. Oil of turpentine, 1 oz. Give in a quart of decoction of broom corn tops. The decoction of broom corn has by itself a very efficient action on the kidneys, and will often rapidly reduce dropsi- • cal swellings. The same is true of another domestic remedy, the milk weed (asclepias), which may be given in the same way. No. 209. Soap, 2 oz. Ginger, essence of 2 drachms. Balsam of copaiva, 1 oz. Dissolve the soap in a pint of old ale or hard cider, and add the other articles. The above is praised by Mr. White as an active diuretic in dropsy of the belly. No. 210. Acetate of potash, 1 oz. Powdered camphor. 1 drachm. Bub the camphor down with the yolks of two eggs, and give the whole in a pint of linseed tea, or decoction of broom tops. Diseases of the Horse. 189 CHAPTER VII. DISEASES OF THE FOOT OF THE HOUSE. Structure of the Foot of the Horse. Lameness in the Horse; How to Detect Lameness; How to Ascertain the Cause of the Lameness. Inflammation of the Feet — Laminitis — Founder — Fever in the Feet. Corns. Thrush or Frv^h of the Frog. Canker. Punctured Wbvm,ds of the Feet — Prickings — Gathered Nails. Sand Crack. False Quarter. Quittor — Fistula of the Coronet — Fibro- Chondritis of the Foot. Navicular Disease — Grogginess — Contraction of the Foot. Scratches — Mud Fever — Cracked Heels — Erythema of the Heels. Grease — Eczema of the Heels. In order to render clear the subjects treated of in this chapter, we shall be obliged to begin with a brief descrip- tion of the STRUCTUBE OF THE FOOT OF THE HOBSE. The following cut (Fig. 21) represents a section of the foot divided through the middle lengthwise, that is, from 190 Diseases of the Horse. toe to heel, and shows the bones in their natural position in the healthy hoof. FIG. 21. — A SECTION OP THE HOKSE's FOOT. Commencing above, the letter D indicates the lower end of the long pastern bone; b is the coronary bone, which lies internally from the upper or coronary border of the wall of the hoof; c is the coffin bone, or foot bone, os pedis; d is the navicular bone, a small bone of very great interest to the surgeon, because injury and inflammation of surface tissues is a very frequent cause of lameness, producing that condition called " grogginess." The navicular bone bears no part of the weight, but is apparently inserted for the purpose of giving increased leverage power to the long tendon, e, which passes from the coffin bone backward, over the navicular bone and up the leg. It will be seen that from the upper part of the long pastern bone to the end of the coffin bone is a straight line, inclined at an angle of about 45° to the surface of the ground. This obliquity of position enables the bone to act as a spring, for the purpose of modifying concussion. Anatomy of the Foot. 191 When, for any reason, the relations of this natural mechanism become disturbed, lameness is the result. FIG. 22. — EXTERNAL, PARTS OF THE HOOP. Turning to the outer coverings of the hoof, we note that it is made up of two parts : the one seen above the ground, and the other that which is placed on the ground ; in other words, the wall and the sole. The wall is divided into the toe (Fig. 22, a), which is the forward point of the hoof; the heel, which is the hinder part, where the notch is seen; the quarters, which are the portions on each side, midway between the toe and the heel, riG. 23.— THE SOLE OF THE HOOP. and which are known respectively as the inside and the outside quarter; the upper, or coronary border (e); the lower, or solar border; and the bars, which are the re- 192 Diseases of the Horse. flections of the wall, in toward the centre of the foot, on its ground surface. When the horse is not shod, it is upon these bars that he walks. The ground surface, or sole of the foot, is made up of the bars, which, as we have said, are only parts of the wall of the hoof turned backward and downward; the frog (Fig. 23, a); the cleft of the frog (c); and the sole proper (b b), which forms the principal part of the ground surface of the hoof. The four hard parts of which the hoof is composed, to wit, the wall, the sole, the frog and the two bones (coffin bone and navicular bone), can readily be separated by boiling. Besides these, there are in the hoof, the "fatty frog", or the plantar cushion which is above the frog, tendons, nerves, blood-vessels, cartilage, and glands for the secretion of the horny substance which forms the walls and frog* Into these it is needless to enter, for although their thorough understanding is essential in order to appreciate the remarkable mechanism of the horse's motion, tneir consideration can be dispensed with in a work designed for practical purposes only. LAMENESS IN THE HOBSE. It is often no easy matter to detect lameness in the horse; and when detected, it is often still more difficult to explain its cause and suggest a cure. We shall go into this subject at some length, because it is of such prime importance to every stock owner, and is so generally misunderstood; and we shall begin with some directions s "0 o 3J H m '^ D 0 ^ ■D w m 30 o w X » m 0 H X a O M 2 50 7) (/) H C/3 1-1 > > H z m Lameness, 193 HOW TO DETECT LAMENESS. The horse is to be examined: first, at rest; second, in motion. A lame horse standing at rest will generally favor the unsound limb by lifting it frequently, or by pointing it, that is, by extending it in advance of its fellow. If both feet are lame he will have a habit of lifting first one, then the other. In elbow lameness, the fore arm is ex- tended, the knee bent, and the foot on a level with, or behind, its fellow. In severe shoulder lameness, the point- ing is backward, the knee bent, and the foot behind its fellow, sometimes the toe only touching the ground. When the lameness is in a hind limb, the horse stands with it "knuckling over" at the fetlock, or with the foot altogether off the ground. If the lame leg is in advance of the sound one, this indicates that the disease is in, or below, the hock. When both the fore feet are lame, the hind ones are advanced beneath the body, so as to receive as much of the weight as possible, while the front feet are lifted alternately. When both hind feet are lamed, the fore feet are planted beneath the chest, and close to the centre line, while the body is pushed forward, and the head hung down, so as to take as much weight as possible off of the hind feet. Having noted carefully how the horse stands at rest, the next procedure is to examine the suspected limb. If there is unnatural heat, tenderness on pressiu'e, or a swelling in any part of it, the suspicion of lameness is at once verified. But nothing of this kind may be obvious, even in cases of incurable lameness, so the horse should next be examined in motion. It is far from easy to recognize all varieties of lameness in a horse in motion ; and unscrupulous dealers know many tricks to conceal it. Thus, if one fore foot is lame, they 13 194 Diseases of the Horse. will make the other equally so, by paring it, so that the action of the two limbs correspond; they will check up his head, with a tight rein, to prevent the peculiar "nodding" motion, or dijiping of the head, characteristic of a horse lame in a front foot; or they will select a gait to show him off which conceals his unsoundness. Again, some varieties of lameness are visible in the gait only when a horse begins to exercise; while other varieties only show themselves after half an hour's use. Of this, of course, the dishonest dealer will take advantage. A proper examination is as follows : — As soon as the animal is taken from the stable, let an as- sistant run with him at a slow trot, holding his head at only a moderate height. It is necessary to watch him trotting both from and toward the observer, for a horse lame in the off fore leg when trotted /rom the observer seems to have the fault in the near hind leg, as this quarter is the one seen to ascend and descend — an error which is corrected on seeing him approach. Another important point is to have the ani- mal turned sharply in both directions while on the trot. The lameness from string halt (p. 91) can often only be detected by this motion. When both front or both hind feet are lame, there is no perceptible limp, but a peculiar shortness of action. Each foot is carefully put to the ground and quickly lifted up again. A horse lame in the fore quarter nods or dips his head at every step ; one lame in the hind quarter drops or jerks the croup. Having examined the horse in a slow trot, if nothing is discernible, but yet it is desired to push the inspection further, the horse should be exercised at a rapid trot or moderate gallop for half an hour, then placed in a stall to cool off, for twenty minutes, and then brought out again. He will then assuredly show in his gait any splint or hock trouble that he may have. Examining for Lameness, 195 TO ASCERTAIN THE CAUSE OF THE LAMENESS. Lameness is not a disease in itself, but only the sign of a disease or an injury. It may arise from some local disorder in the foot, the bones of the legs or the joints ; or from some general disease, as rheumatism, palsy, alBFections of the brain, and even of the liver. In every case of lameness where the cause is not perfectly obvious, it is well to begin the search for it by removing' the shoe and closely examining the foot for the presence of some of its numerous diseases, which will be shortly mentioned. Satisfied that the cause is not in the foot, we should next pro- ceed up the limb, carefully scrutinizing the soft parts, the bones and the joints, for any signs of injuries, tumors, tender- ness, swellings, or inflammation. If here, too, we are at fault, then we should run over the general diseases of the animal, mentioned above, which are accompanied by lame- ness as one of their symptoms. An examination conducted in this manner will seldom fail to result satisfactorily. In the description of local diseases causing lameness, which follows, we shall pursue the course here indicated, be- ginning with diseases of the foot, and proceeding up the limb. As the subject of lameness is so important to all dealers in horses, we add the following CLASSIFICATION OF THE SYMPTOMS OF LAMENESS, AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCE. The symptoms have reference to the animal either, 1, at rest, or 2, in motion. " Pointing," it will be borne in mind, may be only a habit ; in that case one fore and one hind limb point ; but when it is indicative of lameness, only one limb points. 196 Diseases of the Horse. Symptoms when at Rest. Symptoms. Significance. Fore foot pointing:;, the foot It z» i.i, i • r J. r-i. ru > liameness 01 the lesr. m iront oi its lellow. J ° The fore arm extended, the ^ knee bent, the foot about V Lameness of the elbow. on a line with its fellow. J The limb relaxed, the knee ^ bent, the foot behind its V Lameness of the shoulder. fellow. J Hind foot bent, " knucklino- "1 -^ j> i, • j r j. ,, ^ 'i 1 * > Lameness oi hmd toot, over, or oii the ground, j Hind leg in front of its fel- 1 Lameness in or below the low. J hock. Hind feet brought well for-1 ward under the belly j bead > Lameness in both fore feet. reared. J Fore feet pushed back be-^ neaththe chest, head hang- > Lameness in both hind feet. ing. J Symptoms when in Motion. Symptoms. Significance Head nodding or dipping. < Lameness in fore quarters. Croup dipping, or drop- ( ^ . i . i c rr o? 1 r L/ameuess in hmd quarters, pmg. ^ \ Foot lifted quickly, straight up. Foot swung in a half cir- j Lameness of elbow or cle, not much elevated. \ shoulder. Side-bone, sprain of back _ , , , sinews, sprain of suspensory Foot brought down toe ,. , • i i- ° V ligament, navicular diaease, shoulder lameness, or hip (^ joint lameness. J Lameness of foot or hock. Lameness and Founder. 197 ( Founder, seedy toe, sand Foot brought down heel J crack, ring bone, stifle joint first. I lameness, inflammation of I carpus, or os pedis. Splint, sore shins, side bones, disease of knee joint. Navicular disease, or grog- giness, weed, corns, rheuma- tism. Little or no lameness at first, but increased on mo- tion. More or less lameness at first, diminishing on motion. Little, or no lameness in r o, . i i, , • i i i . - , , ) btrmghalt, strained back, a straight trot, but observ- < , . . 11 , .1 1 shivering, able on turmng sharply. L INFLAMMATION OF THE FEET— LAMINITIS— FOTJNDEIl— FEVEE IN THE FEET. Definition. — An inflammation of the sensitive portions of the foot, including, at times, the laminse, the sole and the foot bone. Causes. — The causes of founder are numerous, and it is not surprising that it is one of the most common sources of lameness. It may arise from over exertion, from gallop- ing, or trotting on hard roads, from excessive feeding, from drinking too much cold water when heated, from a sudden chill, from having to stand a long time in rail- road cars, or on shijis, and from a transfer of an inflamma- tion from some other part of the body. Horses with heavy bodies and slim legs, and those which are very fat, are more liable to it than others; and animals which have been taken from country roads and put to work on hard paved streets, very frequently suffer from an attack. Symptoms. — The inflammation is usually confined to one or both fore feet. He stands with the hind legs drawn up 198 Diseases of the Horse. under his belly, and his fore feet advanced, so as to relieve tlicm of as much weight as possible. When the inflam- mation is active, the signs of pain are very; manifest. The animal trembles and quivers, his eyes glare, his nostrils are dilated, he often groans with pain, and sweats moisten his skin. Kis pulse is full, strong and rapid, and his breathing is quickened. He is very unwilling to move; and, if pushed backward, will elevate his toes and throw his weight upon his heels, by a peculiar motion, on which some surgeons rely to diagnose the disease quickly. Some- times he will lie down upon his side for hours together, with his legs stretched out, evidently relieved by this position. If the hand is placed on the hoof and frog, they will be found hot to the touch, and sensitive to firm pressure ; the pastern arteries beat violently. When the hind feet are inflamed, the fore feet are pushed under the body, to support the weight; while the hind ones are extended forward, so as to throw the weight upon the heels; thus bringing all four of the feet close together, under the belly. When compelled to move, he takes a kind of a jump forward; but prefers to lie down, to escape the pressure on them when standing. Such are the characters of acute founder. But fre- quently it is much less severe in its symptoms. In many old and over-worked horses there is little heat or fever, and the pain is not constant. After a day or two's work, slight inflammation is excited, causing a lameness, which disappears after a few days' rest, to reappear on the next occasion. This is often mistaken for rheumatism. In old cases, when the disease has been often repeated or badly treated, it leaves behind it a condition known as "pu- miced foot," the appearance of which is quite characteristic. On looking at the hoof it is seen to have a number of fur- Founder. 199 rowed, uneven or wavy ridges running around it, parallel to the coronet. They resemble ribs or irregular rings running together toward the front part of the foot. Another result of acute founder is what is called "seedy toe." This name is applied to an inferior secretion of horny matter at the lower margin of the foot bone, and in a small space about the toe. The formation is of a porous, soft character, and liable to be aggravated by dirt and gravel entering its substance. Though not invariably producing lameness, it is at all times liable to do so, and must be con- sidered an unsoundness. An affection that has been at times mistaken for acute founder is inflammation of the muscles of the limbs, espe- cially of the hind quarter and loin (myositis). In both dis- eases there are stiffness, lameness and loss of power of motion. The difference^ may be stated in a manner easv for compari- son as follows : Founder. The horse lifts his feet from the ground, first one then the other. When the animal lies down the pain and fever in the feet are lessened. Generally occurs in the front feet. Inflammation of the Muscles. The horse keeps both feet on the ground, and is unwil- ling to move either of them. Tluere is no tendency to lie down, and if cast, the symp- toms are aggravated. Generally occurs in the hind quarters. Treatment. — This, as often practiced, is far more hurtful than beneficial. It should be an absolute rule not to give large doses of purgative medicine. Experience has repeat- edly shown that the irritation of the bowels thus produced often makes the disease much worse; indeed, it is said some cases have been brought on by an injudicious dose of the kind, leading to inflammation of the intestine and transfer to the feet. 200 Diseases of the Horse. A gentle laxative is, however, in place. "We may prescribe No. 211. Powdered aloes, 2 to 4 drachms. Bicarbonate of aoda, 1 oz. Give as a drench, in a pint of warm water. Should there be much fever, Prof. Williams states that he knows no treatment so effectual as aconite in rej^eated doses, say 20 drops of the tincture of the root every 2 hours, in the water, until the pulse decidedly falls. If the pain is very severe, however, he would give first attention to this, by ad- ministering one or two full doses of opium or morphia. For local treatment to the foot, the most judicious is to envelop it in a large warm poultice, or wrap it in numerous woolen cloths and keep them wet with hot water. After the urgent symptoms have passed off, cold instead of hot appli- cations will prove more useful. Some writers of weight have recommended that the ani- mal be moderately exercised during the course of the dis- ease; but it is safe to say the majority do not favor this course. Others, especially the old authorities, urge the im- portance of bleeding. Certainly in the large majority of cases this is wholly useless; and if practiced at all it should only be in young, strong and full-blooded animals. Probably local bleeding from the coronary arteries just above the hoof will answer every purpose, and no doubt often does afford prompt relief. Pumiced foot is incurable ; but it can be greatly relieved by fitting to the foot a bar shoe with a broad circle, thicker at its outer edge and beveled off toward the center. In seedy toe the diseased parts should be cut away, and the growth of a healthy secretion stimulated by blisters and strong liniments. The sole should be protected by bar shoes, properly adjusted. The probability of a cure is very slight. Lameness. 201 CORNS, Definition. — Small swellings or tumors on the sensitive sole, in the triangular space between the bars and the w^all at the heel, found in the fore feet only, and almost always in the inside heel. Causes, — The cause of corns is almost always bad shoeing, or wearing the shoe too long a time. Symptoms. — Corns do not always cause lameness, though as a rule they do. They are always sensitive to pressiu^e, and usually appear as tumors of a hard, horny character. Treatment. — The shoe should be removed, and if there is inflammation, the foot should be poulticed, and if the corns are festered, an opening made to give vent to the pus. The seat of the corn should be pared, care being taken not to cut out portions of the bars or the frog. Many "corn salves" are recommended. Mr. Chawner gives the following: — No. 212. Tar, Beeswax, Honey, of each, J lb. Glycerine, 8 oz. Lard, ^ lb. Nitric acid, 2 drachms. Melt the lard and beeswax together, stir in the lard and other ingredi- ents, and stir till cold. Another corn plaster is — No. 213. Subacetate of copper (verdigris), ^ to 1 oz. Oil of turpentine^ 2 oz. Yellow wax, J lb. Melt together and apply on a piece of leather. THRTISH, OR FETISH OF THE FROG. Definition, — A diseased condition of the secretions from- the frog, commencing at the cleft and extending over the wliole of it, characterized by the discharge of a foul and fetid material. 202 Diseases of the Horse, CauSGS. — ^Standing in water and filth, such as wet straw and stable refuse ; frostbite; irritating applications, or "stop- pings " to the feet. Symptoms. — The appearance of the frog, especially of its cleft, and the bad odor, are characteristic. There is nearly always tenderness on pressure, and consequent lameness. Treatment. — Thrushes are usually easily cured. The ani- mal should be placed in a clean stable, with a dry floor, well littered. The seat of disease should be cleaned, the excessive 'growth removed, and calomel applied, as — iNo. 214. Calomel, ^ oz. Sweet oil, 2 oz. Mix, spread on a piece of lint or oakum, and insert in the cleft of the frog, and over any other diseased parts. The whole should be covered with a layer of wood tar, or a leather shoe may be used for a while with advantage. Some veterinarians use caustic pastes, as this, by Mr. y ouatt : No. 215. Sulphate of copper, 2 oz. Sulphate of zinc, 1 oz. Mix thoroughly with 2 lbs. of lard and one of tar, and every night and morning cover it with a piece of tow, and introduce it into the cleft of the. frog. Another is : Ko. 216. Tar, _ ^ 4 oz. Sulphuric acid, J oz. This to be applied on tow, as the foregoing. Or nitric acid may take the place of the sulphuric acid in the formula. CANEEB. Definition. — A diseased condition of tha frog and sensi- tive sole, resulting in an unhealthy and fetid secretion of horny substance. Canher of the Foot. 203 Censes. — It may arise from an injury, as a prick, or the irritation of a nail ; but at other times the cause is obscure. S3fniptoms. — There is an abundant, ill-smelling, colorless discharge from the frog, which is large, spongy and covered with fungous growths, and offensively smelling, cheese-like masses. The very disagreeable smell is attributed to the sulphm-etted hydrogen in the secretion of bone substance. Generally, there is a gross, heavy habit of body ; hence, canker is most frequent in cart horses, with thick, round legs and large feet. Treatment. — Some veterinarians say that the treatment of canker, by calomel (No. 214), is generally a successful one. Others have not found it so, and recommend the early removal of the whole horny sole of the foot, as the only effectual remedy. This is performed as follows : — The animal having been properly thrown and secured, make a groove at the immediate junction of the sole and wall, all around the foot, commencing at the heel. Then divide this circle into two halves by a groove, from the cleft of the frog to the toe. Take a sharp scalpel and cut cleanly through these grooves, into the sensitive parts, so as to completely separate the sole from the wall. Strip off one-half of the sole first, then the other, removing every trace of the horny covering of both sole and frog. Cut away all fungous growths, and freshen up the whole with nitrate of silver. Pack with dry tow, bandage, and ])ut on a leather boot. Apply a tourniquet, moderately tight, to the fetlock. The dressing should not be removed for two days, when it may be done very carefully, after a thorough soaking of the foot in warm water. If fungous groAvths and the ill-smelling secretion still continue, the surface must be repeatedly dressed with power- 204 Diseases of the Horse. fill caustics, as nitrate of silver, sulphuric acid and tar (No. 216), and the like. An efficient caustic wash, is: — No. 217. Chloride of zinc, * 40 grains. Water, 1 oz. This is known as De Morgan's solution, from the eminent London surgeon of that name, and is unsurpassed as a wash for fistulous and foul wounds and ulcers, which cannot wxll be reached with the solid pencil of nitrate of silver, or chloride of zinc. The solution may be syringed freely on the part. PTJNCTURED WOTINDS OF THE FEET— PRICKINGS, GATHERED NAUS. ]\Iost injuries to the feet, of this class, are caused by care- lessness in shoeing ; though, occasionally, a horse treads on an upright nail, or a thorn, and brings about a lameness due to its entrance into the sensitive portion of the hoof. Symptoms. — The distinguishing marks of lameness from this cause are its sudden onset, when the horse is in health, without fever or other disease, and the intense pain. Should the accident not receive attention, it may lead to festering within the hoof, disease of the bones of the foot, sympathetic fever, and lockjaw. Treatment. — The shoe should be gently removed, the foot washed and pared, and moderate pressure against the sole and wall of the hoof, all around, until some tender spot is found. This is then to be scraped and pared, so as to re- move any foreign body, and to give free outlet to any pus which may have formed ; and the foot then enveloped in a large and warm poultice. After a day or two, if the healiug is delayed by proud flesh, or the continued discharge lof an unhealthy and ill-smelling matter, the wound should be well syringed, several times daily, with a solution of car- Various Lamenesses. 205 bolic acid : one drachm of the acid to an ounce of water ; or, the following : — No. 218.. Sulphate of zinc, Sulphate of copper, of each 2 drachms. Vinegar, ^ pint. Mix, and use with a sjring~,. SAin) CBACE. Definition. — A crack or fissure in the wall of the hoof, be- ginning at the coronet, and generally found in the inner quar- ters of the fore and the toes of the hind feet. Causes, — There is usually a defective quality of horny sub- stance secreted in these cases. It is too brittle, and on bad shoeing, or rapid traveling over hard roads, the wall of the hoof splits. Sometimes this happens suddenly, but generally the crack is of slow growth, beginning at the coronet and run- ning downward. S3^ptoms. — The appearance of the crack is characteristic ; when the animal bears his weight on the foot it opens, and when he lifts the foot it closes. Thus sand and dirt easily effect a lodgment, and working into the sensitive parts, give severe pain, and cause marked lameness. Sometimes irrita- tive fever and local suppuration ensue. Treatment. — "When there is much inflammation, the shoe should be removed, the edges of the crack pared, the fissure cleansed, and hot fomentations and poultices applied. Caus- tic should not be applied, even if there is a growth of proud flesh, according to Prof. Williams, on account of the danger of exciting further irritation. "When the inflammatory symptoms have abated, a bar shoe should be applied to the foot, and the edges of the crack be brought together and clasped, by an instrument made for the purpose, which can be had of any surgical instrument maker. Two or three of these may be placed up and down the 206 Diseases of the Horse. crack. A small hole is bored with a red hot wire, to admit the insertion of thin hooks on each side of the crack, the sides of which are thus firmly bound together. Another and a simple expedient is to cut several notches on one side of the crack, and drive a small horseshoe nail in the wall, passing across the crack, and coming out through the wall on its other side, where it can be firmly clinched. This also brings the edges of the crack so closely together that no dirt can enter, and if neatly performed, without injury to the sensitive structures benedth, will give immediate relief, and offer a very fair prospect of a permanent cure. Instead of these mechanical appliances, some cases will re- cover by filling the crack, after cleansing it thoroughly, Avith the follo\ying composition, and turning the horse out to grass until a new hoof is grown. iSI'o. 219. Beeswax, 4 oz. Yellow resin, 2 oz. Oil of turpentine, Tallow, , 1 oz. i oz, Melt together. FALSE QTTAETEE. Definition. — A large crack or gap In the coronet or wall of the foot, showing a deficiency of the horn-making secretion of the part, or that the secretion is unhealthy. Causes. — The usual cause is some previous disease of the coronary band, such as carbuncle, quittor, injury, severe frost- bite, or the like, which has altered its structure to such a de- gree that it can no longer perform its proper function of secreting the material for the horny layers. S3^ptoms, — Although a horse with false quarter is not always lame, he is very apt to become so, and is esteemed unsound by all authorities. False quarter diifers from sand- crack, both in origin and appearance ; it is much wider at the Quiitor. 207 base and contains a modified condition of horn. The coron- ary band shows a loss of substance corresponding to that of the wall. The space where the wall is imperfect is tender to pressure, and requires careful shoeing and protection. Treatment. — If there is a wound, its edges should be freshened with the knife or caustic, and a firm bandage ap- plied, to bring them together. Stimulating washes of carbolic acid and water will keep the surface clean and hasten heal- ing. In old cases little can be done besides filling up the fissure with gutta percha, and having the horse wear a bar shoe. QXriTTOR— FISTULA OF THE CORONET— FIBEO-CHONDEITIS OF THE FOOT. Definition. — Inflammation and suppuration of the fibrous cartilage of the foot, extending by fistulous canals in various directions, with one or more openings upon the quarters and heels of the coronet. The name "quittor" is derived from the verb to quit, in the sense of to discharge, the external opening of the fistulse being their vent or place of discharge. Causes. — Pricks in shoeing, treads, suppurating corns, or any other injm-y which leads to inflammation of the cartilage in the hoof and the accumulation of pus inside the walls. Symptoms. — A quitter differs from a wound or a recent abscess of the coronet, by the condition of the parts, which have taken on a peculiar unhealthy action; by the character of the surrounding tissue, which is hard to the touch ; and by the presence of the fistulse, or "pipes" as they are called by farriers. The principal symptoms are lameness, which is often ex- cessive ; swelling upon the coronet, about the center of which one or more small orifices are seen, discharging a thin and watery or a thick and curdled matter. On examining with a 208 Diseases of the Horse. probe, the pipes are readily detected, leading generally in a downward direction toward and into the foot. Treatment. — There is a variety of ways of curing quit- tor, and if we fail in the more mild, we must proceed to the more severe, and not be deterred by fancied feelings of ten- derness. First, if there are heat, swelling, and excessive tenderness, indicating an acute stage of the complaint, we must for the time be satisfied with poulticing the foot and giving it the utmost rest possible. The shoe should be removed, and any puncture or inflamed corn sought out and treated as directed under those headings. These measures failing, the next step is to inject the fis- tula; or pipes with caustic and strongly stimulating injec- tions. For this purpose we may use. No. 220. Carbolic acid, Water 1 drachm. 1 oz. Or, No. 221. Corrosive sublimate, Water Nitric acid, 1 drachm. 1 oz. 10 drops. Once a day is often enough to use either of these, and it is useless to repeat them hiore than half a dozen times. Should they fail, the next resource is what the old writers call "coring the pipes," that is, burning them out with caus- tics or the red hot iron. The former is effected by sprink- ling about five grains of corrosive sublimate on a small square piece of tissue paper, folding it like a plug, and in- serting it into the pipe, where it is retained by means of a bandage. In from five to seven days a circular slough will have separated, leaving a healthy wound, which with proper care will heal up from the bottom. The same end may be attained by pushing a pointed iron, at white heat, to the very bottom of the pipes, or by inserting a guarded bistoury, and Treatment of Quittor. 209 cutting their sides freely, and then syringing them with the btinmlant above mentioned (No. 220). If the quittor is near the front of the foot these proced- ures must be carried out with care not to injure the joint, which is there close to the surface. A horse with quittor should not be worked, as it greatly retards recovery, or renders it impossible. It is also essential that during the cure his general system be well supported by nourishing diet, healthy surroundings and tonic medicines, when called for. NAVICULAS DISEASE— CONTBACTION OF THE FOOT— GBOGGINESS. Definition. — An inflammation of the surface of the navic- ular bone, extending, occasionally, to its interior and U) the tendon which passes over its surface, as well as to adjacent parts. Causes. — This disease is said, by Prof. Williams, to be the most fertile cause of lameness, that we know of, in high-bred horses. For a long time its exact nature was doubtful, and even yet there is not an entire agreement among veterinary authorities; but the definition, above given, expresses the most recent views. It is believed that a rheumatic constitu- tion predisposes it; and that a bad fitting shoe, sudden and violent exertion, and over-strain of various kinds, bring it on. Racing and hunting horses are those most subject to it. Symptoms. — The lameness it produces may be sudden in its onset, or it may have been j-jreceded by "pointing" of the foot, and shortness of stcj). The chief signs of the disease, are: a short, tripping gait, turning in of the heels, wearing away of the toe of the shoe, pointing of the limb while stand- ing, and wasting of the muscles of the shoulder — what is called a sweeny (though this may arise from various other diseases). The motion is stiff and peculiar, and once care- 14 210 Diseases of the Horse. fulljr noted, will be readily recognized. On examining the foot it is often found hot, dry, and perhaps tender at some points, especially on bearing firmly on the hollow of the pastern. Tripping and stumbling are common. As the disease progresses, a contraction of the size of the foot always follows, which may extend to the muscles of the fore arm and shoulder. Treatment. — If this is commenced early, it will usually succeed; but if postponed for several weeks, the horse is ruined for life. As soon as the lameness appears, and is traced to its right source, the shoe should be removed, blood taken from the arteries above the coronet, and the foot placed in a cold water bath for a few hours during the day, and wrapped in a poultice at night. No exercise should be allowed; and if the pulse is fast, an ounce of saltpetre should be given night and morning, in the water. Moderate doses of aloes (about four drachms), in a pint of water, will be of benefit. If, after a fortnight, the disease is not conquered, a blister should be placed around the coronet; and this not bringing prompt relief, a seton should be put into the frog, as follows : If the near foot is to be operated upon, the needle should be introduced from the frog upward; but if the off foot, from the heel downward. The frog should be well pared, a sharp-pointed, short, curved needle chosen, and its course not made too deep, as the sinew might be wounded. The point of the needle should be introduced about one inch from the toe, and brought out midway between the bulbs of the frog and the forward boundary of the hollow of the heel. The ends of the tape are then tied together, and the seton is dressed daily, for three weeks or a month. This will usually be found to cure the lameness; but if it does not, Scratches or Cracked Heels. 211 the case may be looked on as hopeless, and the most that can be expected will be to render the horse, by care and quiet, able to do some moderate work. Some relief may be obtained, by the following hoof oint- ment : — No. 222. Tar, Burgundy pitch, Mutton suet, of each equal parts. SCRATCHES— MTJD FEVER— CRACKED HEELS — ERYTHEMA OF THE HEELS. Definition. — An affection of the skin of the heels in horses, considered a variety of chronic erythema, depending on altered or suppressed secretions. Causes. — Exposure to mud and water, melting snow, ne- glect of grooming, constitutional predisposition. It is parti- cularly frequent in wet, open winters. Symptoms. — The horse is more or less lame, especially on starting off in the morning. The skin of the heels is dry and cracked, presenting upon its surface scaly crusts, the parts swollen, and sensitive to the touch. At times the scratches are on all four legs, and extend up to the belly ; the horse is irritable, and some general fever is noted. This is the form called " mud fever," as it is generally brought about by the irritation of wet dirt, and lack of care. For its prevention, it is recommended to allow the dirt to dry on the horse, and then have it well brushed off, without the application of water; or if water is used to remove it, that the legs be well bandaged immediately afterward. Treatment. — The plan recommended by Mr. Broad, of Bath, England, as always successful, is to groom carefully, give walking exercise, and apply to the parts, once or twice daily, the following : — No. 223. Solution of subacetate of lead, 1 oz. Glycerine, 8 oz. Mix, and apply to the parts. 212 Diseases of the Horse. Sometimes the system needs to be strengthened by extra diet and tonics. And if the case seems very obstinate, the part is to be penciled over with nitrate of silver solution. No, 224. Nitrate of silver, 1 drachm. Water, 1 oz. For a local application. Or a mild blister is to be applied, and the system generally altered, by the administration of Fowler's solution of arsenic, in the usual dose, for a few days. Other useful preparations are — No. 225. Powdered alum, 2 drachms. Sulphate of zinc. 20 grains. Water, 1 pint. Wash the cracks well with this, and dress with petroleum ointment- No. 226. Acetate of lead, Sulphate of copper, of each j oz. Mix in a pint of water, for the same purpose as the last. When the inflammation is considerable, it may have tc be reduced by poulticing ; the irritation and sensitiveness which remain can then be reduced by the following : — No. 227 Acetate of lead. Oxide of zinc, each J oz. Lard, 3 or 4 oz. To be applied after the part has been well washed GREASE— ECZEMA OF THE HEELS. Definition. — An inflammation of the skin at the back of the heels and fetlocks, with a formation of vesicles and pus- tules, yielding a fetid, watery discharge. Causes. — Negligent grooming, exposure to cold and wet in standing, together with a constitutional tendency, or a low condition. Grease is scarcely ever met with in vigorous horses which are well cared for. Symptoms. — There is an inflamed appearance of the skin, the surface dotted with small blisters and pustules, pouring Treatment of Grease. 213 out a discharge of ill-smelling matter, often considerable in quantity. The limb is swollen and tender, and fever may be present. The hind limbs are more frequently affected than the fore ones. The hairs are matted together, and masses of proud flesh spring from the unhealthy sores, forming rounded bunches, which, from their imagined resemblance to the fruit, are called by farriers "grapes." Closer examination may dis- cover various parasites in these masses, and around the hairs. The main point of difference between grease and scratches is that the former is a moist, and the latter a dry disease of the skin (though irritation and ulceration of the cracks, in scratches, may sometimes deceive the hasty observer). Treatment. — As the disease is very often owing to the poor condition of the animal, he should have an entire change of diet, should be comfortably housed and clothed, and given, once a week, a moderate dose of aloes (4 to 6 drachms in a pint of water). An ounce of saltpetre should be placed daily in his bucket of water. Locally the parts should be kept clean by gentle bathing in tepid water, and dusting with dry oxide of zinc (flowers of zinc) ; or by bathing with the following, which is highly recommended by Prof. Dick in the early stages of the dis- ease : — No. 228. Acetate of lead, 1 oz. Sulphate of zinc, ^ oz. Water, 1 pint. Mix and apply twice daily, after cleaning the parts with warm soap and water. For the "grapes" Prof. Dick recommends sprinkling them with powdered sulphate of zinc. Others clip them off with scissors ; or fasten a tight ligature arovmd their bases and let them slough off; or remove them with an actual cautery. For the impleasant odor of the discharge, a lotion made of one part of carbolic acid to ten or twelve parts of water will prove effectual. Prof. Gamgee recommends, as an excel- lent preparation — 214 Diseases of the Horse. No. 229. Tar, 4 oz. _ Nitric acid, sufficient. Pour the nitric acid on the tar, rapidly stirring the mixture until active effervescence ensues. For a local application. Another preparation which he praises for the same trou- ble is — No. 230. Nitrate of potash, Oil of turpentine. Sulphuric acid, each, 2 oz. Vinegar, 1 pint. Mix together, and then add as much sulphate of copper as it will dis- solve, and apply locally. For the bad odor a chloride of lime ointment is effect- ual— No. 231. Chloride of lime, 3 to 6 ozs. Lard, 1 lb. Mix and apply to the parts. This also has the advantage, in summer, of keeping the flies away from the excoriations. An American authority recommends — No. 232. Sulphate of copper, 1 oz. Water, Whisky, of each, 1 pint. Dissolve the vitriol in the water, then add the whisky. Apply tlires times a day, bandaging the part afterward. Inflammation of the Bones. 215 CHAPTER yill. DISEASES OF THE LEG. Inflammation of the Bones. Sor^e Shins — Inflammation of the Iletacarpal Bones. Splints or Splents. Ring Bones. Bog Spavin — Blood Spavin — Inflammation of the Hock Joint. Bone Spavin. Thorough-Pin. Capped Hock. Side Bones. INTLAMMATION OF THE BONES— OSTITIS -PERIOSTITIS. The bones of the leg, and their covering, called the "peri- osteum," are liable to become inflamed, and to lead to sever- al varieties of lameness, which we shall examine in order. INFLAMMATION OF THE METACARPAL BONES— SORE SHINS. This form of inflammation of the bones affects young horses, particularly race horses under four years old, and is due to the fact that they are so often violently overworked. Symptoms. — Lameness of the leg ; swellings of an elastic, tense and doughy feeling over the shin bone ; tenderness and heat on pressure; sometimes slight general fever. The swelling may become very prominent, and tend to break ex- ternally, but it always preserves its elastic feel ; or, it may remain small and gradually become quite hard, changing into bony matter, and the pain disapj^ears. Treatment. — If the swelling is decided and the j^ain severe, a narrow-bladed bistoury should be introduced be- neath the skin, and the periosteum freely cut, so as to allow 216 Diseases of the Horse. its contents to escape. This is {o be followed by "warm and soothing fomentations, as hot water containing a tablespoon- ful of laudanum to the pint; later by cold water dressing, and if healing is not prompt a blister should be applied to the part. With this, the constitutional treatment should not be neg- lected. A smart purgative is required, followed by small, repeated doses of aconite (twenty drops of the tincture of the root three or four times a day), low diet, and the animal kept as quiet as possible. In the less severe forms incisions are not called for, and the cold applications may be employed from the outset, suc- ceeded by blisters, if needed. SPLDITS OR SPLENTS. These arise from another form of inflammation of the metacarpal bones. They are usually found upon the inner surface of the leg, at the uj)per third of the bone. They are a bony growth, the result of slight inflammation. Although when single and small they may exist without causing lameness, their presence may be considered a mark of unsouudnesss. In regard to their causes, it is said that they are frequent- ly hereditary, and are at other times developed by a long continued moderate gait, from concussions and bruises. Slightly built horses are most subject to them. The peculiarities of lameness from splints are: (1) The horse is often quite young (2) A splint-lame horse will show it little or none in his walk, but in a marked manner in his trot, the drop of the head upon the sound side being very great. (3) The knee does not bend readily. (4) The lameness increases the longer he is kept in motion. (5) Ten- derness on firm pressure over the seat of the splint. Their presence may usually be recognized by running the Treatment of Splint. 217 finger down the slight groove formed between the main shank bone and the smaller one behind, where they will be felt as small, bony swellings. Treatment. — In new and acute cases, with decided swell- ing and tenderness, a sharp scalpel should be inserted be- neath the skin, and the sheath of the bone freely divided. A seton may be placed over the spot, an active purgative administered, and the part thoroughly fomented. If these measures fail, it is well to fire the part as recom- mended on page 64. After an apparent cure the lameness may return, in which case it is best to take the shoes off, turn the animal into pas- • ture, and give him a long rest. A writer in the London Lancet has given the following as a useful liniment in splint : — Ko. 233. Oil of origanum, Oil of turpentine, each 1 oz. Alcohol, ^ oz. To be applied night and morning, for a few days at a time. KING BONES. These are deposits of bony matter above and below the coronet. They are produced by heavy work in draught horses, or by rheumatic disease. Lameness may not be present, although when inflanima- tion is active, it may be extreme. Tlie lameness is worse on hard ground, and usually increases with exercise. Swelling may be scarcely perceptible, and confined to the sides of the pastern bone, or it may be an extreme enlargement of the whole region. Forcible bending of the pastern causes pain, as does also firm pressure on the swelling. Treatment. — Active inflammation, when present, should be treated as heretofore described. When this is absent, the treatment is chiefly mechanical. When the ring bone is in 218 Diseases of the Horse. the fore leg the horse puts the heel down first ; in this case a thin-heeled bar shoe should be used. If, on the other hand, he puts the toe down first and endeavors to walk on it, this shows that the rino; bone is in the hind limb and on the sides or back of the pastern. He should then wear a high- heeled shoe. INFLAMMATION OF THE HOCK JOINT— BOG SPAVIN — BLOOD SPAVIN. The hock joint in the horse corresponds to the ankle joint in man, and is subject to a class of diseases called spavins. Of these, bog-spavin is the result of inflammation of the structures of the joint. It is, in its acute forms, a tense fluc- tuating swelling, accompanied by heat and tenderness, and producing decided lameness. In a more chronic form it seems to be but a dropsical swelling of the joint, and may exist without apparently interfering with the gait. The tendency in the acute form is toward ulceration of the cartilage of the joint, and a consequent permanent stififen- ing of its motions. In chronic spavin, which is usually of a rheumatic character, there is a slow depositing of bony sub- stance in and around the joint, which also leads to perma- nent impairment of the functions. Blood spavin is strictly a distention of one or more of the veins in the neighborhood of the hock, caused by the pressure of the swelling impeding the flow of the blood. Treatment. — The treatment of acute spavin should be by liberal doses of opium, to relieve pain, placing the horse in the slings to take the pressure off the joint, fomenting this with hot water, giving a moderate dose of aloes, and adding an ounce of saltpetre to the water, morning and night. As soon as these measures have conquered the inflamma- tion, setons and blisters to the hock, and rubbing it freely with ointment of iodide of mercury (No. 162), will prevent the remaining lameness. On Spavin. 219 When In chronic cases there is considerable deposit of water around the joint, blisters, setons and firing will often lessen it. But when the bony deposits are once formed, there are no means at our command to remove them. As a blis- tering liniment in chronic cases, we may use — No. 234. Mercurial ointment, 2 oz. Oil of cantharides, 4 drachms. Mix and use locally. The oil of cantharides, which is preferred by some veteri- narians to other forms of Spanish flies, is made thus : — No. 235. Powdered flies, 1 oz. Olive oil, 8 oz. Digest in a water bath for three hours, and filter. It is an efificient stimulating liniment. BONE SPAVIN. Definition. — A bony gro^\i:h on the inner and lower side of the hock, arising from inflammation of the adjacent bones (the cuneiform and metatarsal), terminating generally in a bony union between two or more bones of the hock, and thus creating a permanent unsoundness. Causes. — These are defined to be hereditary and constitu- tional. All writers agree that bone spavin is transmitted from sires and dams to colts. Local exciting causes are sprains of the ligaments, and the use of shoes with high heels or calks. Blows, it is believed by the best surgeons, do not cause spavin, in spite of what certain horse breeders have main- tained to the contrary. S3^ptoniS. — Spavins do not always cause lameness, but it is almost impossible to say which ones are not liable to develop it. As a rule, those in front of the hock are m(jst feared. The lameness is, as a rule, removable in young horses, but incurable in those past their prime. Yet one which has existed for a number of years without producing 220 Diseases of the Horse. serious trouble "with the gait, will, as a rule, never do so. There is always a certain stiffness about a sijavined horse, which is observable to an experienced eye, although it is often so slight as to pass undetected by ordinary witnesses. Treatment. — The treatment for recent cases is the same as that directed for other inflammations in the foot and neigh- borhood. "When the acute symptoms have subsided, blistering or firing, or the insertion of a seton is called for. Various stimulating oils, and the like applications, are used for a similar object, as — No. 236. Oil of turpentine, 12 parts. Corrosive sublimate, 1 part. Mix for a resolvent ointment The objection to corrosive sublimate is that it blemishes. No. 237. Mercurial ointment, 4 oz. - . Powdered cantharides, ^ oz. Oil of rosemary, 2 drachms. Thoroughly and frequently rubbing the part with oleate of mercury (referred to under Rheumatism, p. 181), will dis- sipate as much of the swelling as has not become bone. Firing has often been used with success in very obstinate cases; and of all our resources, it is the one on which most confidence can be placed. The objection to it is that it blemishes; but any severe caustic application may do the same; and by the use of Prof. Williams' firing iron, pre- viously described (page 65), this objection is largely re- moved. Setons are next in value, if not fully equal ; and if skill- fully inserted, leave little mark. They should be passed be- neath a considerable tract of skin, covering the site of the spavin, and the tape anointed with one of the stimulant pre- parations mentioned in Part First (p. 64). Before using any of these external remedies, it is good spavin and Thorough-pin. 221 practice to insert under the skin.a narrow-bladed bistoury, and scarify the site of the spavin freely; and during the treatment, which on an average will be two months, the horse should be stabled and used very little. THOROUGHPIIT. Definition. — A dropsicai enlargement of the sheath of the tendon which passes along the upper and posterior side of the hock joint (synovial effusion in the bursa of the flexor pedis perforans muscle). The disease receives its name be- cause the fluid which fills it may by j)ressure be forced from one side of the hock to the other. There is really no con- nection between the joint of the hock and the sheath of the tendon. Thorough-pin is a dropsical effusion in the latter; bog spavin is a similar effusion in the former. Causes. — Thorough-pin is usually found in short, fleshy horses, and those which have heavy loads to start, thus strain- ing the tendon of the perforating muscle. Symptoms. — The distinctions pointed out in the definition of the disease will serve to distinguish it from bog spavin, which is the only disease with which it is liable to be con- founded. Treatment. — The horse should wear a shoe with high heels, and a spring truss be applied to the swelling, exerting upon it steady compression. A more active plan, recommended by some, is to make a free puncture at the most dependent part of the swelling, and allow the whole of the fluid to drain off, keeping the punc- ture open for several days. Meanwhile the sack should be injected with a mild solution of sulphate of zinc (ten grains to the ounce of water), or with dilute tincture of iodine. No. 238. Tincture of iodine, 1 drachm. Whisky, 1 oz. Inject one or two teaspoonfuls. 222 Diseases of the Horse. The walls of the sack should then be brought into close contact by a firm flannel bandage, and the horse be rested far a week. Other surgeons use a resolvent ointment, as No. 239. Biniodide of mercury, 1 part. Neats-foot oil, 7 parts. Eub well togetlier, and apply by gentle friction every day, until the skin is inflamed. CAPPED HOCK. Definition. — A swelling on and around the point of the hock, caused either by an effusion into the tendon of the gas- trocnemius muscle — Synovial Capped Hock — or into the loose tissue between that tendon and the skin — Serous Capped Hock. Causes. — Both these forms of capped hock generally pro- ceed from kicking and striking the point of the hock against some hard object, and are indicative of a vicious temper as well as of an unsound horse. The synovial form causes lameness, but the serous form does not necessarily do so. Treatment. — The serous form can generally be cured by blistering and applying firm j^resssure with a strong elastic bandage. The synovial form must be managed in the same manner laid down for thorough-pin, it being a disorder of a strictly similar nature. SIDE BONES. Definition. — A change to a bony substance, taking place in the lateral cartilages of the fore feet. Causes. — This change is usually found in hea\y draught horses, and is attributed to the over expansion of the car- tilages from the great weight of the animal, added to a he- reditary tendency, and shoeing with high calks. side Bones. 223 Cymptoms. — Lameness is not invariably present, but the action of the horse is "stilty ;" the feet are contracted, altered in form, flat or convex in the sole, and weak in the heels. The presence of the side bones may be detected by pressing upon the cartilages ; when in health these are yielding and elastic, but when ossified they lose this character and are hard, enlarged and unyielding. The lameness of side bones differs from that caused by ring bones. In side bone lameness the toe of the foot is first brought to the ground ; when both feet are involved, there are a shortness of step and a want of elasticity in the action, resembling that of "grogginess" (p. 209). Treatment. — This must be by the use of the bar shoe ; rest to the limb ; counter-irritation by blisters and firing. Removal of the cartilages with the knife has been tried in France, but without satisfactory results. 224 Diseases of the Horse. CHAPTER IX. ■WOUNDS AND INJURIES, AND THEIR RESULTS. 27ie General Treatment of Wounds; To check bleeding; Clean- ing the ivound ; Restoring the position of the parts ; To pre- vent inflammation. Sprains or Strains. Strains of the shoulder and leg ; Rheumatic joint ; Sprain of the flexor muscles ; Shoulder Slip; Sprain of the back sin- ews, or flexor tendons. Injui'ies of the Foot and Loiver Leg ; Interfering ; Over- reach ; Tread, or Calking ; Speedy cut ; Brushing. Wounds of the Knees — Broken Knees. Elboio Sprain — Elboxo Lameness. Breaking Down — Strain or Rupture of the Suspensory Liga- ments. Wind-galls. • Curb — Sprain of the Calcaneo-cuboid Ligaments. PoU Evil. Fistulous Wthers. Rotten Bone — Necrosis and Caries of Bones, Frostbite. Burns and Scalds. Stings and Bites. Hernia — Rupture — Burst. Choking. THE GENERAL TREATMENT OF WOUNDS. AYliatever form of wound we are called upon to treat, we should proceed to attend to four points to wit : 1. To stop the bleeding, if any. 2. To wash and clean the wound thoroughly. Treatment of Wounds. 225 3. To bring the parts as near as possible into their natural positions, and keep them tliere. 4. To guard against excessive inflammation. The means we have to accomplish these results are as fol- lows : — 1. To Chech Bleeding. — If the blood is bright red, and flows in spurts or jets, an artery has been cut. Its open end must be sought for, seized with the forceps, drawn out a little and tied with a thread. A little practice will enable any one to do this with great ease. If the flow is steady and of dark blood, it need cause no anxiety. Bathing the part in alum water (1 oz. of alum, in powder, to a pint of water), rubbing it with a piece of ice, or sponging it with clean water will quickly check it. 2. Cleaning the Wound. — This is best done by pouring water on it from a height, not rubbing it with sponges or rags. Pieces of hair, dirt, etc., can be picked out with the forceps. Nothing is so useful for a cleansing wash as a weak solution of carbolic acid, one or two ounces of tlie acid to a gallon of water. 3. Restoring the Position of the Parts. — The edges of a cut wound should be carefully brought together and sewed or held by sticking plaster. A broken bone should be replaced in its natural position and held there by splints. Strong curved surgical needles should be in the outfit of every stock owner, and he should practice their use on the dead animal. Where they are not convenient, the edges of a wound may be held together by inserting a strong pin and a twisted suture, as shown on page 67. The sutures are generally removed on the fifth or sixth day. As to local applications, after the wound is thus put up, they are to be found in any quantity. Some good surgeons 15 226 Diseases of the Horse. advocate nothing but a dry bandage; others a wet one, moistened with cold or hot water, carbolic acid water, crea- sote and water, tar, petroleum solution of borax, and many other substances. Wet clay has been praised. And there are a great many ointments, balsams, oils, etc. Whisky and water, equal parts, either simple or contain- ing one grain of corrosive sublimate to the pint, is an excel- lent dressing. 4. To Prevent Inflammation. The older surgeons had a great fear of "wound fever," and to prevent it were wont to bleed and starve their patients after an injury. This notion has long since disappeared from human surgery, but still holds its grounds with some veterinarians. It is a pernicious error. All that is needed to prevent too violent reaction after a wound — and that is what M^as meant by wound fever — is to keep the animal quiet, and if feverish symptoms appear, to put an ounce of saltpetre in the drink, night and morning, and administer a gentle purge. If there is much pain, noth- ing equals a full dose of opium, either in the shape of lauda- num by the mouth or of morphia beneath the skin. The dressings on the wound should be neatly and com- fortably applied, and then not often changed. Cloths wet with weak carbolic acid water two or three times a day are never approached by flies or maggots, a jjoint that must al- ways be watched in the lower animals. Often the wound is not seen for purposes of treatment until days after it has occurred, and after it has become foul, ulcerous, bad smelling, with ragged edges and perhaps filled with maggots. Here the first step is to clean and disinfect it thoroughly. To kill the maggots it may be freely sj)rinkled with calomel. This will penetrate into the recesses of the wound and destroy them promptly. Ragged edges and pieces of dead Treatment of Wowfids. 227 skin should be cut away, loose shreds removed with the scissors, and the wound washed by pouring warm water on it from a height. When in this manner it is well cleaned it should be thoroughly swabbed with a feather, or a piece of tow on the end of a stick, with a disinfecting and stimulating lotion, in which also pieces of tow, lint or rag should be wet and laid in and over the wound ; the whole to be covered by a bandage wet with the same. The wetting should be repeated two or three times a day, but the bandage need not be removed as long as the part appears progressing favorably and the animal is comfortable. Of such disinfecting and stimulating lotions we shall give a number of formulas, so that when the ingredients of one are not convenient another may be chosen : — No. 240. Alcohol or whisky, Corrosive sublimate, 1 pint, 1 grain. No. 241. Carbolic acid, Water, 2 drachms, 1 pint. No. 243. Powdered alum, Sugar of lead, Water, 1 oz. 1 pt. No. 243. Hydrate of chloral. Water, h OZ. ipt. A very excellent amplication. - No. 244. Creasote, Water, 1 drachm, Iqt. No. 245. Chloride of zinc. Water, 1 drachm, 1 qt. No. 246. Tar, Boiling water, ^pt. Igal. Crude peti ■oleum is an excellent application also. 228 Diseases of the Horse. tSPRMNS OR STRAINS. Dofinition. — Stretching of a muscle, sinew or cartilage, with rupture or other injury to some of its fibres. Causes. — Sprains may arise from sudden violent exertion, or long continued slight overtasking of the parts. They are common in the horse, which is so frequently set to work above his "powers ; and they cause a number of lamenesses, of frequent recurrence. Symptoms. — Strains are always followed by more or less inflammation, characterized by pain and tenderness, heat and swelling in and around the part strained. Unless relieved by proper measures, this condition is very liable to lead to one of atrophy or withering in the part, a form of unsound- ness which is familiarly known in the horse as a swef:ny, from the German word scJncinden, to grow less, to disappear, Treatment. — The general line of treatment in sprains and strains may be stated as follows : (1) Give the part rest; (2) Reduce the early inflammation by cold or hot water fo- mentations, cooling lotions, etc. (3) Firm and steady pres- sure by bandages, to prevent "bagging" (serous infiltration) ; (4) Counter-irritations and gentle but regular use, to prevent stiffness and sweeny. In carrying these principles out we may use, to reduce in- flammation, either plain cold or quite hot water, whichever gives most relief. Or we can employ some of the many evaporating and refrigerant lotions which have been suggest- ed, as, for example — Ko. 247. Sal ammoniac, 1 oz. Nitrate of potash, 2 oz. Water, 1 pint. Mix and use as soon as it is made. No. 248. Acetate of lead, 1 oz. Vinegar, Water, each, 1 pint. An eflScient, cheap and useful lotion. Treatment of Sprains. 229 No. 249. Spirits of camphor, 1 oz. Vinegar, 4 oz. Water, 1 pt. Also cheap and effective. No. 250. Tincture of arnica. J oz. Water, 1 pt. A very popular lotion. Eminent surgeons, however, doubt whether the good effect is not owing to the alcohol in the tincture rather than the arnica. After the inflammation has subsided there are almost always stiffness, swelling and pain on motion of the part, often very slow to disperse, and particularly so in old patients. A host of substances are used for rubbing and irritating the surface, in order to stimulate the vessels and bring about the absorp- tion of the effusion. As among the most effective of these, we mention oleate of mercury, already described (see page 181), and the ointments of the iodide of mercury (No. 162), and of iodine (No. 81). Any one of these dili- gently and persistently used will generally dissipate the swelling. Others of value are the two following, recommended by Mr. Dun : — No. 251. Mercurial ointment, 2 oz. Camphor, 1 drachm. Oil of tar, Linseed oil, each 4 oz. No. 252. Mercurial ointment, 2 oz. Creasote, 1 drachm. Solution of ammonia, 2 oz. Linseed oil, & oz. Mr. Gamgee speaks favorably of — No. 253. Iodine, J oz. Glycerine, Mercurial ointment, each 2 oz. Olive oil, 6 oz. All of the above are excellent combinations, useful not only in the swellings from old sprains and strains, but in those from chronic rheumatism, scrofulous enlarged gland? 230 Diseases of the Horse. (as in the slow form of strangles, goitre, etc.), and the late re- Bults of inflammation of the udder, in weed, etc. To those we may add — Ko. 254. Oil of turpentine, 1 oz. Spirits of camphor, 2 oz. Specially recommended for pains in the shoulder, threatened with sweeny. No. 255. Iodine, 1 oz. Soap liniment, 12 oz. For callous swellings after bruises, and chronic glandular enlarge- ments. STRAINS OF THE SHOULDER AND LEG. Lameness which has its seat in the shoulder joint may be owing to three different conditions. 1st. Rheumatism or injury in the joint. 2d. Strain of the back or flexor muscles. 3d. Shoulder slip. "We shall proceed to consider briefly each of these. \st. Rheumatism or Injury in the Joint. This is what is generally meant by the term " shoulder lameness." The gait of the horse reveals the seat of the dis- ease at once to a practiced eye. He does not carry his limb straight forward, but with a circular or swinging motion, the foot being thrown outward, so that the toe is made to describe the arc of a circle. Sometimes the toe is dragged along the ground, pain in lifting the foot being characteristic of shoul- der and knee lameness, while pain in putting it down is char- acteristic of foot lamenesses. If when the horse is at rest the limb be moved backward and forward, he Avill shrink and show distinctly the hurt he feels. Sometimes swelling and heat about the joint can be discovered. 2 c?. Sprain of the Flexor Muscle. This is the muscle which lifts and advances the limb, and Sprahis and Strains. 231 it is quite common for it to suffer from over exertion. It will be found swollen and tender along its whole course. Such an accident is especially common in plough horses, and is nearly always on the offside, because the limbs and shoul- ders are thrown into an irrregular position by walking in the furrow. Such horses will work on the road without any lameness, but will show it as soon as they are put to the plough. 3. Shoulder Slip. By this is meant a peculiar outward slipping movement of the shoulder joint at each step the animal takes when the foot of the lame limb is upon the ground, and the opposite one lifted. It might be supposed that each step threw the shoulder out of joint. But this is not the case. The cause of the trouble is the relaxation of the muscles which usually hold the bone firmly into the cavity of the joint (those mus- cles called by anatomists the anterior spiuatus, the posterior spinatus, and the external round muscle). This allows the bone to slip around loosely, spoils the gait, and is liable to be followed by sweeny. Treatment. — The management of these injuries must be on the general principles laid down for sprains. When re- centj and when inflammation is present, the horse should be slung, and the j^art treated with cold or hot fomentations. Generally, however, a more important question is what to do with such cases in their chronic stage, when they are of Ions: standino;. Some horse doctors claim vast skill in their treatment of sweeny, their process always being a i^rofound mystery. The best books on the subject do not have other recom- mendation for the restoration of the muscles when wasted than the repeated applications of moderately stimulating lini- 232 Diseases of the Horse. ments, and mild blisters, and a long period of rest in the barn-yard or at grass. There are two agents, however, worth trying : The one is the hypodermic injection of strychnia, one-half to one grain daily, immediately over the "sweenied" muscle; and the other the steady and intelligent use of electricity. When the animal is a valuable one, it will pay to have one or both these measures carried out by a skillful person. SPEAIN OF THE BACK SINEWS, OR FLEXOR TENDONS. This strain or diseased condition of the back sinews is gen- erally seen in cart horses and others required to pull heavy loads. It is a very common variety of lameness. The sinew becomes swollen, tender, enlarged and a little shortened, so that the horse stands on his toes and cannot put his heels to the ground. The leg is held stiff and upright and the toe dug into the ground. The treatment required is a high-heeled shoe, with rest, and stimulating liniments. In old cases, where there is much shortening, the sinew may be divided beneath the skin, by the operation called tenotomy. To perform this requires a close knowledge of theanatomy of the parts, to avoid wound- ing the artery, so that it had better be left to the professional veterinarian. INJURIES OF THE FOOT AND LOWER LE&. Interfering. — This is an injury of the fetlock, caused by a blow by the opposite foot. It is commonly seen in young and awkward, or else ill-shod horses, and can generally be prevented by judicious shoeing and protecting the fetlock with a piece of leather. An Overreach is an injury to the coronet of the fore foot by the shoe of the hind foot. It, too, is often owing to im- Wounds and Injuries. 233 proper shoeing, but some horses, when traveling at a rapid gait, are liable to the accident, although well shod. A Tread or Calking is a wound u^jon the coronet by the shoe of another foot of the same animal ; or by the foot of another animal when crowded together, as at fair:, in rail- road cars, etc. It is liable to bring on quittor, and thus cause serious damage. A Speedy Out is a contusion on the fore leg, either above or below the knee joint. It generally occurs when the horse is pushed to considerable speed, and is a dangerous accident to both horse and rider, as the animal is apt to fall down suddenly, from the violence of the pain. It can sometimes be prevented by careful shoeing, but this does not succeed with some horses. In such it constltues, in law, an unsound- ness. Brushing is caused by the shoe of one foot striking against the fetlock. It is generally in the hind limbs, and in young horses or those exhausted and out of condition. The remedy is to use preventive shoes, according to the nature of the injury. Most of these injuries may be lessened or prevented by a scientific manner of shoeing, for which no specific directions can be well given, as the form and manner of fastening the shoe, must vary with the particular foot and the particular nature of the injury. As for the treatment of the latter it- self, it will be in accordance with the general treatment of wounds and injuries as laid down on jjp. 225, etc. WOUNDS OF THE KNEES— BROKEN KNEES. Any injury whatever to the knee of a horse may have dis- astrous results, and should be closely watched; nor should a ])urchaser accept as sound an animal that is scarred or at all swollen at the knees. All careful horsemen give the closest attention to such injuries, and treat them as follows: 234 Diseases of the Horse. 1. When the skin is bruised but not cut. — Tie up the ani- mal's head so that he cannot lie down ; sponge the knee re- peatedly with a cooling lotion (No. 247): if there is much swelling give a purge. 2. When the skin is cut. — Clean the \vound very carefully, by repeated washing, and if needed a poultice, then clip the hair around it, and fasten the edges together with sticking plaster, and bandage lightly. Never stitch or pin a knee wound. Stitches will not hold and always blemish. 3. When the sheath of the sinew is torn open. — The swell- ing is generally very considerable, but the wound appears worse than it will prove to be if careful treatment is used. Tie the horse up, clean and fasten the parts together, as above directed, give a brisk purge, use saltpetre daily in the water, and when the wound is healing hasten absorption by stimu- lating liniments. If the wound becomes unhealthy, syringe it with Aveak carbolic acid water (one drachm to the pint). 4. When the sinew is torn and the joint opened. — A wound of this severity will either kill the horse, from the fever, suppuration and exhaustion w4iich are certain to follow; or, if he recovers from these, will leave him with a stiff joint and lame for life. It is only in exceptional cases, therefore, that it is worth while to try to save him. He should be treated as last described, with the addition of strong tonics, to keep up his strength. ELBOW LAMElfESS, ELBOW SPRAIIT. A lameness which arises from a disease of the elbow joint or a sprain of its ligaments, shows itself by a half-bent position of the limb while the horse is standing; unwilling- ness to lift the foot far from the ground ; and an excessive dropping or nodding of the head and shoulders when in motion. The cause of a sprain at this point is usually the horse's Strains and Sprains. 235 fore leg slipping outward or forward on the ground, in frosty weather. The usual signs of inflammation may generally be discovered around the elbow, on examination. BREAXING DOWN— STEAIU OF THE SUSPENSORY LIGAMENT. The suspensory ligament is at the back part of the knee, and passes down to the foot. Its strain usually takes place in young, fast horses who are speeded beyond their powers. When it comes on suddenly, with actual tearing of the liga- ments, the horse at once becomes excessively, and often per- manently, lame, and the injury is called " breaking down." It may also appear gradually, and then, if taken in time, a few mouths' rest and the ordinary treatment will restore the parts to their original strength. The lameness, when from " breaking down," appears sud- denly, in either the fore or hind leg ; there is intense pain, heat and swelling, the horse turns up his toes, and there is a falling of the fetlock pads. He stands on his fetlocks, as it were, the toe being turned up and the sole looking forward. The same symptoms, m a much milder form, mark the slower and insidious form of the injury. WINDGALLS. Definition, — Dropsy of the bursa of the sesamoid bones at the back part of the fetlock, or inflammation of the bones themselves, with effusion. This injury shows itself when It is in the form of wind- galls, as soft, puify swellings about the size of a hickory nut, to the back and sides of the fetlock. They are not consid- ered an unsoundness, as they can generally be dispersed by a stimulating liniment and wearing a high-heeled shoe. Or the swelling may be opened, the fluid allowed to escape, and the sac mjected, as recommended for bog spavin, page 219. 236 Diseases of the Horse. But there is a hard variety of windgall, where the small " sesamoid " bones themselves are inflamed, and this is a more serious matter. The horse is then lame, going on his toe, and there is heat and and swelling at the back of the fetlock. The swelling is tense and hard, quite different from the "boggy" feel of common windgall. For the relief of the latter, it is recommended to place the animal in slings, and to bathe the part steadily with cold water ; when the tenderness lessens, give him rest, and let him for a long time wear only high-heeled shoes. CURB. Definition. — A sprain of one of the ligaments of the foot (the calcaneo-cuboid ligament). Symptoms. — Curb presents itself in some instances as a small, hard nodule upon the lower part of the back portion of the hock. In others it is an elastic, moderately soft, but firm and easily seen protuberance on the back of the hock, four to five inches below the point of the heel bone (os calcis). Hocks which are bent over are most liable to curb. The lameness curb produces is marked by difficulty in ex- tending the hock, and in some severe cases by the animal keeping the lim b elevated so as to relax the ligaments. Treatment. — The shoe should have a high heel, and the part be placed at rest and treated with cold water and cool- ing lotions as long as any inflammation remains, as evidenced by heat and tenderness. When this has disappeared, it will often be found that the swelling remains in a chronic condition. To induce its absorption, steady friction with an absorbent ointment is usually successful, as — 1-To. 256. Biniodide of mercury, 1 drachm. Lard, 1 oz. Curb and Poll Evil. 237 After cutting the hair over the swelling, a little of tliis may be rubbed in every night, until a free watery discharge is produced on the surface. The leg should be fomented with hot water, to encourage the flow, and if after a week's time the curb has not disappeared, the ointment should be applied again in a similar manner. POLL EVIL. Definition. — A fistulous ulcer, situated immediately be- hind the ears of the horse. CauSG. — Poll evil is caused by accidental violence, or more frequently by the use of a tight, bearing rein. Symptoms. — In its first stage, it is a soft tumor, surrounded by a tender swelling, with stiffness of tlie neck. Later, it breaks externally, and forms a deep ulcer or abscess, discharg- ing unhealthy, ill-smelling matter. The fistula may extend deep into the structures of the neck, sometimes even to the neck bone, and the joint between the head and the neck, caus- ing intense suffering. In such cases, if a probe is inserted and pushed carefully along the track of the fistula, the bone can be felt at its bottom. Treatment. — If seen early, when there is no external open- ing, the horse should have a moderate purge, and the part be kept wet with cold water or a cooling solution, as — No. 257. Tincture of arnica, 2 oz. Vinegar, Water, each 1 qt. Lay cloths on the swelling, and wet them frequently with this. If the inflammation is overcome, the hardness remaining can be dispersed by rubbing with an ointment of iodine or iodide of mercury, as — Kg. 258. Iodine, 1 drachm. Lard, 1 oz. Mix for an ointment. 238 Diseases of the Horse. No attempt should be made to open the swelling unless pus can be distinctly felt, when it cannot be done too prompt- ly. A free cut should be made, the wound kept open for about a week, the part fomented, and the pus gently pressed out. Often the case is first seen when the pus has burrowed into the neck, making long fistulas or pipes. Here the treatment is difficult. The fistulas must be freely opened to their ends by a sharp scalpel, the bone scraped, if diseased, and the whole thoroughly washed and syringed every day with a cleansing and stimulating lotion, as — No. 259. Chloride of zinc, 30 grains. Water, 1 quart. Or, No 2G0. Tincture of the chloride of iron, 1 oz. Water, 1 quart. When the joint is attacked, the case is desperate, and the animal may as well be killed. In less severe cases setons inserted from the original open- ing along the- track and down to the bottom of the fistulas, and then brought out upon the opposite side of the poll, are very successful, and do away with the necessity of using the knife. FISTTn.OUS WITHEES. This injury closely resembles poll evil. It is caused by bruises from ill-fitting saddles, and those horses are most liable to it who have high withers. S3^ptoms. — In the early stage there is an enlargement of the heads of the spinous processes with heat and tenderness. This continues and leads to the formation of an abscess; but as, on account of the position of the withers at the top of the horse in standing, the pus cannot escape, it sinks down- ward, burrowing in between the skin and the muscles, or Fistulous Withei's. 239 among the muscles themselves which connect the shoulder blade with the trunk. Consequently, the inflammation ex- tends, there is serious lameness of the shoulder, and the animal sulBfers generally. Treatment. — In the early stage, the spinous processes, as soon as they are noticed to be inflamed, must be protected from pressure and dressed with cooling lotions. Later, when it is evident that pus is formed, by the fluctuating feel of the abscess, it should be freely opened by an incision as low down as possible on the right side, as most horses lie down on that side, and the escape of the pus is thus favored. The abscess sliould be syringed with carbolic acid water (1 to 2 ), and dressed with a carbolic acid salve (1 to 8), or petrvjleum. In older cases, where a fistula has already formed, running down into the shoulder, careful search should be made for its lowest pouch which contains the pus. This will be either before or behind the shoulder. A free incision should be made into it, and the fistula syringed and dressed as above. Sometimes a more active stimulus is required to make the sides of the fistula take on healthy action, A seton tape may then be passed through the fistula from end to end, and left there. Or the following injection may be freely injected into every j)art of the fistula, two or three times a weak : — No. 261. Chloride of zinc, 1 drachm. Water, 1 piut. These measures, combined with general tonics and good care, will be quite certain to bring about good results. ROTTEN BONE,— NECROSIS AND CARIES OF BONE. Definition, — A decay of the bone, owing to its death from inflammation. It is called by veterinarians "necrosis," when it attacks the shaft or body of the bone, and "caries," when it is confined to its ends, at the joints (Williams). 240 Diseases of the Horse. Causes. — These, in nearly all instances, are wounds and injuries of some kind, or the result of the very severe inflam- mation which follows them. Thus the bone is liable to decay in founder, poll evil, after severe kicks, cracked or fractured bones, etc. S3^ptoms. — Severe and painful inflammation in the part is followed by one or several abscesses, which break but do not heal, remaining as fistulas. The discharge at first may be odorless, but after a time gives off a peculiar and very fetid odor, easily recognized by one familiar with it, as proceeding from decaying bone. If a probe is carefully inserted into the fistula, and made to follow its course, it will reach the decayed bone, and give a dry grating feel to the finger. Treatment. — The most prompt treatment of necrosis, when it is in a position to permit of it conveniently, is to cut freely down upon the decayed bone, scrape it clean with a scraper, remove all loose pieces, wash the wound "with car- bolic acid water or De Morgan's chloride of zinc lotion (No. 217), and treat the cut like any other wound. This cannot always be done, for various reasons, and then the next best procedure is to open the fistulas so as to admit of throwing injections' to their bottom, and wash them out once a day, for a week or two, with "Villate's Solution.^' 'No. 362. Sulphate of zinc, Sulphate of copper, each, J oz. Solution of subacetate of lead, 1 oz. White wine vinegar, 6 ozs. Use one part of this to ten of water, by means of a syringe. The upper and lower jaws, from their exposed situation, and from the abuse of the bit with long levers, and from in- juries to the teeth, and also the roof of the mouth, are parts especially liable to caries, the ulcers being inside the mouth. The sore caused is characteristic. There is a depression, in- dicating a loss of substance, which contains a fungous growth Diseases of the Bone. 241 of "proud flesh/' which is not attached to the sides, but only to the bottom of the ulcer. There is a watery and oiiensive discharge, but as this flows inside the mouth and becomes mixed with the saliva, often the only circumstance which calls attention to the presence of the disease is the bleeding from the mouth when the bit is in place. The mouth is full of a slightly bloody pink froth. This form of caries is best treated by ceasing to use the bit, and touching the sore repeatedly with the nitrate of sil- ver stick, which should be pushed deeply into it and held for a second or two. By judiciously continuing this for a few weeks, taking care not to use the caustic more than enough to keep down the proud flesh, a cure can be effected without the necessity of cutting down and scraping the bone. Nevertheless, when time is an object, the latter is much the more expeditious plan. The horse should be cast, and chloroformed, the granulations removed with the knife, the dead bone scraped away, and the wound swabbed wdth the solution of chloride of zinc. FROSTBITE. This is caused by prolonged exposure to the cold, espe- cially by standing in the snow, and in half-thawed slush, as is so often the case in the cities. The skin of the part becomes weaker, turns of a purj)le color, is easily inflamed, cracks, and discharges a bloody- looking fluid. In more severe and sudden cases the skin and underlying tissues become pale, insensible and shriveled. The skin, particularly on the heel, will slough across from side to side, forming a deep crack, a condition familiarly called "cracked heel." Treatment. — Where the skin is unbroken, and the ex- posure has not been for a long enough time to destroy the 16 242 Diseases of the Horse. life of the part, it should be briskly rubbed with snow for five or ten minutes. The foot should then be put in a bucket of cold water, and the friction continued until there is a re- turn of warmth. The raw surfaces and sores which follow on neglected frost- bite are particularly slow to heal, on account of the dimin- ished vitality of the tissues. Mr. Dun recommends as a valu- able application — No. 263. Extract of belladonna, 1 to 2 drachms. Kub this up with an ounce of the petroleum ointment or lard, and apply twice a day. It may advantageously be combined as follows : — No. 264. Extract of belladonna, 1 drachm. Ointment of red oxide of mercury, 1 oz. Eub together and apply daily to the ulcerated patches. BURBTS AND SCALDS. These are quite common in horses employed about iron works, factories and steam mills. In all severe cases there is fever, often preceded by shiv- ering, coldness of the ears and legs, prostration of strength, and a quick and feeble pulse. The surface of the burned part will become pale and leathery, or will crack, and a watery discharge will flow from it. Swelling and inflammation come next, and an eifort of nature is made to separate the dead from the living tissues by suppuration. The most troublesome burns in horses are about the shoul- der and elbow, as, owing to the continual motion of these parts, a wound upon them is very slow to heal. Treatmenti — The traditional treatment of burns is, to smear them over, several times a day, with what is called Carron oil, It is made as follows : — No. 265. Lime water. Linseed oil, equal parts. Jlix, and apply direct to the burned surface, dredging flour over it, to thicken it. Treatment of Burns and Scalds. 243 A still better, and often a more easily obtainable, applica- tion is ordinary bicarbonate of soda — baking soda. This m.;y be dredged directly on the part, or stirred up with water to a thick paste and laid over the burn. The relief it causes is immediate. In milder burns, a cheap and very excellent application is, to paint the whole of the burned surface with several thick coats of ordinary lohite lead paint. Ou the large surfaces of horses and cattle, this is the most convenient of all dressings. After being well covered, carded cotton should be laid over the paint, and the whole covered by a moderately firm ban- dage. No further dressing is needed, as the pain is at once allayed, and the burned surface heals kindly under the im- penetrable cover thus given it. No. 266. Alum, powdered, 2 oz. Water, 1 pint. An excellent application for fresh burns and scalds. The part should be soaked with it, and cloths wet with it applied to the sur- face. When the parts ulcerate, they should be well washed out •with, warm water, with a little carbolic acid in it, or with tar water, and the following dusted over the surface with a flour dredger : — No. 267. Oxide of zinc, 1 oz. Starch (or rye flour), 2 oz. Whenever more moisture appears, this should be dredged on again, so as to keep the parts covered with a thick, dry crust. STINGS ASH BITES. Hornets, wasps and bees often attack animals, and some- times cause them serious injuries. Solution of ammonia, or a weak carbolic acid wash (1 oz. to a quart of water), will promptly relieve the smarting. 244 Diseasen- of the Horse, Lime water, alone or containing a drachm of commercial carbolic acid to the pint, is very soothing; while others speak highly of the oil of lobelia, promptly applied. HEENIA—EUPTTmE— BURST. Definition. — A j)rotrusion of any portjion of the bowels, or their coverings, through a rent or opening in the walls of the abdomen. Causes. — Ruptures are quite common in the horse. They are often seen about the navel at birth, and disappear with- out any treatment, during the first year of life. Stallions are more liable to them than geldings. They may be owing to constitutional weakness in the walls of the belly; or to violent efforts and strains tearing the muscular structure ; or to kicks, blows and similar violence. S3^ptom3. — These differ as to the part of the abdominal wall which has given way. There is usually a visible tamor or bulging, which has a hollow sound on percussion, and on feeling it between the fingers the contents are felt to slip upon each other. Often, by properly directed pressure the gut is slipj)ed back into the belly, and the tumor disappears, but returns as soon as the animal makes any exertion. When the hernia is inflamed the tumor is tender, hot to the touch, and there are signs of colic, and often constipatioru In the ruptures which take place in stallions when a part of the gut passes into the inguinal canal, there are symptoms of severe colic, which has the jieculiarity that the animal seems relieved of the pain when he lies upon his back, a i^osition he retains for half an hour at a time. "When the rupture is "strangulated," that is, when the gut is caught and pinched in a narrow slit in the abdominal walls, the suffering is very intense; the body is covered with cold sweat, the animal sighs, the eyes become bloodshot and the pupils wide and staring. Treatment of Rupture. 245 Treatment. — The gcLeral treatment of rupture is as follows : — When the gut can be returned to the abdomen, a pad, such as a smooth piece of wood, should be placed over the part, and kept in position by a firm leather or rubber band- age, w^hich will not slip, and which can be tightened. This should be worn for mouths, until the rent is healed. "When the hernia is inflamed and strangulated, the animal should be chloroformed to insensibility, and gentle and re- peated efforts made to return the parts. This will often succeed if intelligent and persistent efforts are used. When returned, cold lotions should be apjilied, and a well-fitting bandage. In case return is impossible, and the distress is severe, the skin must be opened down to the sack, taking great care not to cut into it, and a blunt-pointed bistoury be slipped up be- tween the gut and the edges of the rent or slit in the abdomi- nal walls and these edges cut and nicked very slightly. thus allowing the gut to be replaced. This is a safe, easy and successful operation, if one is well acquainted with the anatomy of the parts ; but should only be tried as a last re- sort, in otherwise hopeless cases, by a person who has no special knowledge of the kind. CHOKING. This accident is, in the horse, usually caused by some arti- cle of food, as a potatoe, apple, or piece of dry fodder, lodg- ing in the gullet. A common substance in England to cause choking is an egg, many grooms there having the absurd idea that an egg given whole has a beneficial effect on the horse's condition. The symptoms in choking are violent efforts at swallowing, witli the throat and neck spasmodically drawn up. Some- times the offending substance is visible to the eye, or to be 2-16 Diseases of the Horse. felt by the hand passed down the front of the neck. Should the animal tiy to swallow, the fluid is returned by the nos- trils. There are coughing, slavering, a look of great dis- tress in the face, cold sweats and exhaustion. Treatment. — Whenever the obstacle can be reached with the hand or with a pair of forceps, it is to be withdrawn through the mouth. The tongue should be pulled well out of the mouth, and this kept well opened, while the operator removes the substance. When this cannot be done, and the object can be felt from the outside, it is to be loosened by being gently pushed up- ward and downward. Sometimes this maneuver can be aided by having the animal swallow some sweet oil. This, or some other fluid should always be used if the object is dry, as fod- der, chaff, etc. If this plan fails also, it becomes necessary to use a probang and push the offending substance down into the stomach. This is a difficult job in the horse, though much less so in cattle. The following rules should be observed : — Directions for Using the Prohang. 1. Raise the animal's nose so that the mouth and throat are in a straight line. 2. Keep the neck straight. 3. Push the probang gently down the gullet, taking care not to injure, still less to enter, the windpipe. 4. When the end of the probang reaches the object, do not push strong upon it, but gently, and for but a few seconds at a time, then again after a few seconds of rest. In cases where the object is so solidly caught in the gullet that even the probang fails, the next resource is to cut down upon it and remove it. An assistant presses the off aide of the neck, so as to make it bulge as much as possible on the operation for Choking. 247 near side where the operator stands. The latter, with one bold cut of a sharp knife, divides the skin gullet and tissues down to the offending substance, making a cut long enough to remove it. This should be promptly done, and the edges of the cut brought together and stitched, first, the walls of the gullet, with fine thread (or better with catgut), and over them the skin. For several days, or a week, the ani- mal should have only milk and water, or thin slops. But it should be added that this operation is often followed by a permanent narrowing or stricture of the gullet, which may prevent the use of solid food for the rest of the animal's life. 248 Diseases of the Horse. CHAPTER X. DISEASES OF THE EYES. Inflammation of the Eyes — Conjunctivitis. Periodic Ophthalmia — Moon Blindness, White Spot — Eye Spot — Albugo. INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES— CONJUNCTIVITIS. Definition, — An inflammation of the outer covering of the eye-ball, and the lining membrane of the eyelids. , Causes. — These may be the stroke of a whip, a blow, a cold, or some foreign substance getting into the eye and irri- tating it. Symptoms. — The eyelids are swollen, and partly closed^ and the tears flow down the cheeks. If the eyelids are turned up, their lining membrane will be found red and bloodshot, the surface of the eye itself also red, and the pupil dull look- ing, while there may be the signs of some injury visible, or of some irritating sflbstance. Treatment. — Of course the first step is to remove any splinter, hay seed, piece of chaff or other substance visible in the eye. A strong feather is often convenient for this pur- pose, or a small pair of forceps. If there is very much in- flammation, it is well to take blood from the angular vein, which is seen traversing the face, immediately below the eye. The organ can then be covered with soft cloths, and these rejDcatedly wet with clean cool water. Should the inflammation or the injury be so severe that it has involved the inner structures of the eye, great advantage will be derived from smearing the eyebrows and outside of the eyelids with — %lllli T;ivu'*- Q E- <: w to =c H 1^ Inflammation of the Eyes. 249 No. 268. Extract of belladonna, 1 oz, Honey, ^ oz. Mix well together, for an ointment. Or three or four drops of the following may be dropped iuto the eye twice a day : — No, 269. Atropia, 4 grains. Water, 1 oz. Mix for an eye lotion. Do not use that common eye wash, sugar of lead and water, as it leaves a dull leaden deposit on the eye ball, which is a permanent blemish. There are plenty of other lotions for the purpose, which are far better, as for example — No. 270. Sulphate of zinc, 3 grains. "Water, 1 oz. No. 271. Powdered alum, 6 grains. Water, 1 oz. Both the above are mild astringents, very well suited for chronic cases of sore eyes. When there is slight but active inflammation, a soothing eye wash is better, as — No. 272. Sassafras pith, 2 oz. Cold water, 1 pint. Let it stand for a few hours, and then apply cold to the inflamed organ. Another sedative eye wash is — No. 273. Solution of subacetate i Extract of belladonna. Water, of lead. h oz. 20 grains. 1 pint. Or^ No. 274. Laudanum, Extract of belladonna, Water, 2 drachms. 1 drachm. 1 pint. FEEIODIC OPHTHALMIA— MOON BLINDNESS. Definition. — A constitutional and probably malarial or rheumatic affection, leading to repeated attacks of inflamma- tion in the eye, and finally to cataract and blindness. 250 Diseases of the Horse. S3^ptOins. — The disease derives its name of " moon blind> ness/' because the attacks come on suddenly and generally at night. As it is considered incurable, and yet between the attacks, which usually last for a week or two, the horse can see tolerably well, it is of chief importance to be able to re- cognize the signs of the liability to it. Mr. Percival says that %yhen a horse presents several of the following symptoms, he is probably subject to the dis- ease : — A sunken or dull look of one eye compared to the other ; prominence of the winking membrane ; pinkness of the white of the eye ; a watery state of the eye ; dimness or cloudiness of the pupil, especially at its edges, and dullness or discoloration of the center; the pupil of one eye smaller than that of the other ; haziness, milkiness, or a small white speck to be seen in the pupil ; a wrinkled or furrowed ap- pearance of the upper lid or eyebrow. Where any two or three of these are found, the horse is probably liable to moon blindness. To examine an eye for cataract, the horse's head should be turned away from a strong light, the eye shaded with a black hat, and if necessary the eye dilated by rubbing some belladonna on the lid. Treatment. — Moonblindness is at times no doubt of ma- larial origin, as we might judge from its periodic character, and in all cases a full and early trial should be made of the specific remedies for malarial diseases, especially Peruvian bark or quinine and arsenic. No. 275. Powdered Peruvian bark, i oz. Sulphate of iron, 1 drachm. Give twice or three times a day, and double the dose when the attack is expected. The French veterinary surgeons claim many cures by this method. Arsenic can be given, as Fowler's solution of ar- senic, an ounce once a day in the water for several weeks, suspending a few days now and then. Iloonblindiiess. 251 When this fails, aud we are forced back to the rheumatic theory of the aifectiorij we should attack it with a steady course of iodide of potash constitutionally, keeping down the inflammation of the eye by belladonna ointment and eye washes, as recommended on page 249. The old practitioners taught that moon blindness, is due to the presence of the "wolf teeth," and their first step in the treatment was to extract them. This notion does not receive any countenance from the modern school ; but no harm can be clone, by following the traditions in this respect ; and in human surgery the close sympathy of the teeth and the eyes is often observed. WHITE SPOT— EYE SPOT— ALBUGO. Definition. — A bluish or pearly white spot on the pupil of the eye, the result of inflammation, and generally causing some defect of sight. These spots are blemishes which detract considerably from the value of horses, more often than they should do, for they may interfere little or none with the sight. Some veterinarians attempt to remove them by blowing irritating matters through a quill into the eye. This rude and barbarous plan does generally more harm than good. They never entirely disappear, but they may be lessened by occasional light touches with a stick of nitrate of silver. 252 Diseases of the Horse, ^ CHAPTER XI. DISEASES OF THE SKIN. Hingworm. Nettle Rash — Surfeit — Urticaria. Moist Tetter — Humid Tetter — Eczema. Mallenders and Sallenders — Psoriasis of the Carpus and the Tarsus. Warbles — Grubs — Sitfasts. Mange — Itch. Lice. RnTGWORM. There are two forms of ringworm in the horse, the one known by surgeons as herpes, which is an aiFection of slight importance and not contagious ; the other called tinea which is contagious, obstinate and disfiguring. Herpes is characterized by an eruption of small blisters the size of a grain of wheat, on inflamed patches of skin which assume a circular form. It is usually owing to indigestion, or being shut up in a railroad car, or the hold of a ship in close or foul apartments. Contagious ringw^orm is, on the contrary, found on well- cared-for animals as well as neglected ones. It attacks and destroys the hairs, leaving patches of baldness usually of a circular form, the surface of the patch being covered with fine, white, bran-like scales. The hairs around the edges first become dry and brittle, and then break off, and then the patch gradually extends. This form of ringworm is owing to a minute parasite on the skin, supposed to be a plant. Treatment. — For simple ringworms or herpes, it is enough to bathe the parts with a sugar of lead lotion, as : No. 276. Acetate of lead, J oz. Water, 1 pt. ^ Treatment of Ringworm. 253 And to give the horse a smart purge. After this tonics will be required (as No. 20) if the horse is weak and out of condition ; and if there are scratches and small ulcers on the patch it should be rubbed with a stimulating ointment, as, No. 277. Nitrate of silver, 10 grs. Lard, 1 oz. When very obstinate, a blister can be applied directly over the patch which will be pretty sure to effect a cure. The treatment of the contagious or branny variety con- sists in first washing the patches thoroughly with soft soap or weak lye, and then rubbing them with the following oint- ment : — No. 278. Iodine, Iodide of potash, Cosmoline, ^ drachm. 1 drachm, 1 oz. Mix for an ointment, to be used every day. The stable should be thoroughly cleaned and white- washed, the harness and collars washed with strong soap and water, and then brushed over with a solution of corrosive sublimate (one drachm to a pint of water), and the blankets worn on the animal boiled. Instead of the iodine ointment we may paint the part with the following, which is highly recommended by Mr. Dun : No. 279. Carbolic acid, 1 part, Acetic acid, 20 parts. Mix for local use. Or with tincture of the chloride of iron ; or. No. 280. Corrosive sublimate, 2 grs. Water, 1 oz. 254 Diseases of the Horse. ^ NETTLE RASH— SITEFEIT— 1JRTICARIA. This is a frequent form of skin disease in the horse, and consists of an eruption of small elastic lumps, roundish or oblong in shape, and attended with itching. The lumps rise quickly and ui:>on the greater part of the body, generally beginning upon the neck, and frequently disapj)earing as suddenly as they come. They are unequal in size, some no larger than grains of wheat, others as large as beans, and flattened upon the surface. The most singular feature of this eruption is the sudden- ness of its appearance. Sometimes it will break out over all parts of the body in a few minutes ; and it will disappear with equal promptness. The rnuse of the disease is some disturbance of the diges- tion ; './ often appears in horses when they are first turned out tt? /^4'ass in the spring ; and sometimes a draught of cold watfi* when they are heated w^ill bring it out on those pre- dispoi-^d to it. It entails no serious consequences. Treatment. — As a rule all that is necessary is to give a mild purge, and to relieve tlie itching bathe the eruption with a wash of sugar of lead (one drachm to the pint of water). MOIST TETTER— HUMID TETTER— ECZEMA. This is a non-contagious skin disease, which usually be- gins about the neck, shoulder, back and thighs. The onset is sudden, and the animal is seen to rub and scratch himself to relieve itching. On examination the skin is found to be red and inflamed, often scratched and torn by the efforts of the animal. Small blisters or vesides will be noticed on portions of the skin not lacerated by these efforts, which eruptions break and discharge a watery fluid, keeping the surface moist. Tetter. 255 As a rule, it is a summer disease, and some horses have a return of it season after season ; and it is often difficult to assign any other cause for it than that it is constitutional. Nearly always this kind of tetter is confounded with the mange, which it very closely resembles in appearance ; but it differs from it in two important particulars, first, that it is not contagious, and secondly, that it is not caused by an in- sect. Treatment. — This should be begun with a change of diet and a purge of aloes. If after the purge, the bowels are found to be irregular, and feces ill smelling, it is well to give the following : — No. 281. Bisulphite of soda, 1 oz. Powdered gentian, 2- oz. Make a ball, to give night and morning. The most effectual internal remedy is arsenic. This can be advantageously given, as Fowler's solution of arsenic, one ounce once or twice a day. For the treatment of the eruption itself, it is necessary first to remove the scabs and crusts, by first soaking the parts with sweet oil for a few hours, then washing with soap and water. If the hair is long, it must be clipped, and all dust and dirt removed. Then the whole of the diseased surface, and a large space of the healthy skin around, should be cov- ered with the following : — No. 282. Flour of sulphur, ^ lb. Carbonate of potash, \ lb. Carbolic acid, 1 oz. Lard, Olive oil, each . 2 lbs. Mix thoroughly with the aid of gentle heat. This is to be left on the skin two or three days, and then washed off with strong soaj) and water. 256 Diseases of the Horse. Another veiy useful, clieap and handy remedy is tar oint- ment, made as follows : — No. 283. Tar, Lard, equal parts. Mix well together. This should be used in the same manner as above. For this and other itching skin disorders, the following is an excellent combination : — No. 284, Soft soap, Tar, Alcohol (or whiskev), equal parts. Used for painting on the parts twice a day. MALLEITDEES AND SALLEITDERS— PSORIASIS OF THE CAEPTTS AND THE TABSTJS. This is a common and troublesome disease of the skin above the feet in horses. At first it generally begins very much as a moist tetter (eczema), but as the eruption becomes persistent, the discharge of W'atery fluid dries up, and the parts become covered with hard crusts and scabs. Horses which are otherwise healthy are most liable to the disease, and it doJz not extend beyond the bends of the limbs. But the eruptions are unsightly, they sometimes crack and inflame, and therefore they lower the value of the animal. Unfortunately, it is by no means an easy matter to cure them. Treatment. — If there is indigestion or constipation, the food of the animal should be carefully regulated, and he should have a moderate purge. Next, he should have with his drink an ounce of Fowler's solution of arsenic, once or twice a day. The sore spots should be washed thoroughly with soap and warm water, touched lightly with a stick of nitrate of silver to freshen them up,, and covered with pure wood tar. This procedure should be repeated twice a week, and may be said to be a " sure cure." MaUenders and Sallenders. 257 Many ointments are recommended, of which we may men- tion that of Mr. Youatt : — No. 285. Acetate of lead, 1 oz. Tar, 2 oz. Lard, 6 oz. Mix, and apply to the part. Give a diuretic dose occasionally, to act OQ the system. Another application is : — No. 286. Powdered red precipitate, Lard, 2 drachms, 2 ozs. Mix for an ointment. Or, No. 287. Powdered camphor, Acetate of lead, Mercurial ointment, 1 drachm. J drachm. 1 oz. For an ointment, to be applied after washing with soap and water. WABBLES— GEUBS—SITFASTS. These names are all applied to different forms of the skin disease, known to physicians as acne. It is characterized by the presence of small hard lumps beneath the skin, origin- ating in swelling of the glands at the root of the hair. They are especially frequent on the withers, back and neck, and at the root of the mane and tail. They are more often found in the spring of the year, and on parts of the skin which are chafed by the harness. The tops of these inflamed follicles suppurate or become rubbed off, leading to small ulcers, slow to heal, and of an angry appearance. Where constantly irritated by the har- ness or saddle they may mortify, and the skin assume a hard, horny or leathery appearance in the center, with an inflamed ring around the whitish central patch. This is familiarly known as a "sitfast" on account of the difficulty experienced in its removal. 17 258 Diseases of the Horse. Treatment. — In the simple varieties, where the pimples are ulcerating, the repeated application of poultices is very useful. Internally, the animal should have an ounce of sulphur mixed with his feed every morning. Sometimes this plan fails, and then it is well to rub the sores with a stimu- lating ointment, one of the best of which is that of the iodide of mercury (No. 239). For the treatment of sitfast the only satisfactory method is carefully to dissect out the hard, dead piece of skin in the center of the ulcer, and dress the whole with a mild carbolic acid ointment, as, No. 288. Carbolic acid, 1 drachm. Lard, 3 ozs. Mix and apply on rags. Or, cover the wound with crude petroleum. Blisters and caustic, recommended by some, are of no use. Sometimes they can be softened by the following oint- ment : No. 289. Gum ammoniac, 4 ozs. Mercurial ointment, 8 ozs. Oil of turpentine, 10 ozs. Mix with gentle heat and apply on rags. » MANGE— ITCH. Of all skin diseases on the lower animals, this is by far the most frequent, and by far the most to be dreaded, on account of its contagiousness. Any animal that has it should be shut off from others and active measures taken to clean thoroughly every blanket, every piece of harness, brush, curry-comb or other utensil that has touched him. The mange or itch is characterized in all its forms by itch- ing, scurfiness, thinness and loss of the hair on the affected part, and a surface torn and lacerated by scratching and rub- bing, moist from a flow of thin, watery matter, or covered with scabs and crusts, caused by the drying of this exuda* Mange or Itch. 259 tion, and the presence of dust, dirt and skin scales becoming entangled and matted in the hairs. The parts of the animal most frequently attacked are the legs, and the sides and upper border of the neck, and the root of the tail. The cause of the mange is the presence of insects, which live in or upon the skin, and find their food in the watery discharge which their bites cause to flow forth. These in- sects are of several species on each animal, some living on, some in tiie skin. They are hardly visible to the naked eye, and are often very difficult to point out when present. They have been named and described by naturalists, but it is not necessary for practical purposes that we should enter into an explanation of their forms and habits. The symptoms they cause, and the treatment they require, are similar or the same. Treatment. — In all cases the utmost precautions should be taken, as above stated, to prevent the disease spreading. As an application to the mangy spots, many prefer the old- fashioned sulphur ointment : — No. 290. Flour of sulphur, | lb. Lard, 1 lb. Mix thoroughly, and apply once or twice daily, rubbing it in well. As a sulphur wash of a very effectual nature, the follow- ing will be found valuable : — No. 291. Flour of sulphur, 2 lbs. Quick lime, 1 lb. Water, 2 gallons. Boil together, stirring until the ingredients are combined. Bathe the parts with it several times a day. For horse mange some prefer ointment of stavesacre made as follows : — No. 292. Powdered stavesacre, 2oz. Lard, 8oz. Olive oil, 1 oc. Mix at a gentle beat. 260 Diseases of the Horse. Whatever remedy is applied, the parts should first be oiled and washed with warm soap and water, to remove the crusts, dirt and scabs, before the ointment is applied, or otherwise it will not reach the insects, especially the varieties which burrow into the skin. As a serviceable mange dressing, Mr. Finlay Dun speaks well of — No. 293. Iodine, Iodide of potash, Tar, Lard, i oz. i oz. 1 oz. 8oz. Mix for an ointment. No. 294. White hellebore, Tobacco, each 2 oz. Water, 3 pints. Boil, strain, and when cold add a pint of fresh lime water. No. 295. Flour of sulphur, Oil of turpentine, each 4 oz. Tar, 8 oz. Wash the parts with soft soap, dry them, and apply the above. LICE. Poor, half-starved and old animals are very liable to be- come lousy. This is best treated by clipping them, giving them good food and tonics, and washing the skin with a de- coction of stavesacre : — No. 296. Powdered stavesacre seed, 2 oz. Water, 1 quart, Boil for twenty minutes. Care should be taken that the animal does not lick this from the skin. Horses which are stabled in hen-roosts are liable to be at- tacked with chicken lice, which produce an intense itching, sometimes setting the poor beast nearly frantic. The treat- ment is to remove the chickens, whitewash the stable, and Receipts to Destroy Lice. 261 wash the horse with a decoction of tobacco or of stavesacre (No. 296), or rub with this mixture :— No. 297. Scotch snuff, 2 oz. Lard, 6 oz. Mix well together. Hot water poured on crude petroleum, well stirred and allowed to settle ; or poured on quick lime, 4 oz. to the gal- lon, will destroy these parasites. The following is also an excellent, but poisonous preparation : — No. 298. Bruised cocculus indicus berries, 2 oz. Boiling water. 1 gallon. * With this the skin and hair may be thoroughly mopped. No. 299. Calomel, 1 drachm. Petroleum ointment, 1 oz. This both allays the irritation of the skin and destroys the vermin. No. 300. Corrosive sublimate^ 3 to 6 grains. Petroleum ointment, 1 oz. A very efficient, but poisonous remedy. No. 301. Oil of turpentine, 1 part. Olive oil, 3 parts. Mix for an ointment. ic"'^ JERSEY COW, "TURNBRIDGE WELLS." JERSEY COW, "GREY PRINCESS FANNY." PART III. Diseases of Cattle, Sheep and Swine. INTEODUCTOEY. General RemarTcs on the Diseases of Cattle, and their Treat' meiit. Peouliarities of the Action of Medicines on Cattle. There are a number of diseases which in general outline and management are nearly or quite the same in the two large quadrupeds, the horse and the ox. As previously noted, (page 83), a number of these will be found discussed under the Diseases of the Horse. There remains, however, a large class of maladies which are either peculiar to cattle, or present peculiar traits in them, which demand separate discussion ; and to these this Part will be devoted, as also to the consideration of the less known, though really not less interesting, sicknesses of sheep and swine. We begin with some GENERAL EEMAEKS ON THE DISEASES OP CATTLE, AND THEIR TREATMENT. The purposes for which cattle have been domesticated, and their characteristics as ruminating animals, lead to several (263) 264 Diseases of Cattle. peculiarities in the diseases to which they are subject, and the eflPect of medicines upon them. Unlike the horse, they are never prized for their speed, so that lamenesses and disorders of the " ^vind " are much less frequent and less important ; unlike him again, their food is not regulated to insure the utmost muscular power with the least accumulation of fat, but just the reverse. Cattle are naturally plethoric, slow of motion, and averse to much ex- ercise ; and as they are generally under a stimulating and forcing system of diet, they become peculiarly subject to all those diseases which are brought on by excessive richness of the blood. Their tolerance of disease is also much less than that of the horse. They do not bear pain with nearly so much for- titude as that nobler animal ; and when continued for some time, it preys upon them speedily and injuriously, as may constantly be seen in painful foot affections. Moreover, theit courage to bear suffering is but little, and they readily yield to despair and become indifferent to life. Often they refuse to rise when perfectly able to do so, and require energetic measures to force them on their feet. For this reason also they demand tonic medicines more freely and earlier after acute disease than is necessary in the horse. Another result of this lesser vitality is their proneness to local disease-producing influences. It is well known that they do not thrive well and are more subject to diseases when pastured in low-lying, swampy fields, and on rank grass. Epidemics are both numerous and destructive among them. Indeed, contascious and infectious maladies of various kinds are by far the most dreaded of all forms of disease with them, and have repeatedly desolated the herds of whole con- tinents. Even the accident of abortion in pregnancy puts on an epidemic form in cows, and is a source of frequent anxiety to possessors of dairies. Peculiar Diseases, 265 The ricliness of the blood and general plethora predispose them to glandular swellings, ulcers, and especially mortifica- tion and gangrene. It is an acknowledged fact that although the flesh of the bullock is one of the most esteemed foods of the human species, there is no animal in which gangrenous ulcers and malignant forms of carbuncular disease are so numerous or so destructively poisonous. The gullet of the ox is several times larger than that of the horse; but owing to the greater development of the bones of the nose (the ethmoid and turbinated bones), the pharynx, or upper part of the throat is smaller, and the windpipe is con- siderably less. From these anatomical differences it arises that inflammations of the upper throat are much more liable to produce suffocation than they are in the horse, and de- mand, therefore, early and active attention, or the perform- ance of tracheotomy more promptly. (See page 112.) For what reason has not been definitely ascertained, true inflammation of the lungs (pneumonia) is not nearly so fre- quent in cattle as in the horse. What is usually so called in them is an inflammation of the small air tubes of the lung, and is known to medical men as "capillary bronchitis." Pleurisy, on the other hand, occurs much oftener than in the horse, and the compound disease called pleuro-pneumonia, where there is along with pleurisy scattered masses of in- flamed tissue in the limg, is at times a malignant epidemic. The most terrible of lung diseases in the human race, con- sumption or pulmonary phthisis, is hardly known in horses, but is very common in some breeds of cattle, and in milk cows after neglected colds, pneumonia or pleurisy. It is closely associated with scrofula, which is a hereditary taint of the blood, far more common in the best breeds of cattle than it is in the hog, from which animal the name is derived (Latin, scrofa, a sow). 266 Diseases of Cattle. PECULIARITIES OF THE ACTION OF MEDICINE ON CATTLE. There are several peculiarities in the action of medicines on cattle which the veterinarian takes into account. They are chiefly referable to the construction of their stomach in four divisions, only the last one of which corresponds in its action to the single stomach of the horse and of man. The first and third compartment always contain food and in large quantity, and until the medicines have passed through these and have reached the fourth stomach, they have little or no effect whatever. It is a common but erroneous notion, as has been shown by Mr. Finlay Dun, that medicines when poured very slowly down a cow's throat, pass, like the ruminated food, direct to the fourth stomach. On the contrary, they pass through the first, second and third stomachs first. Accordingly it happens, and not unfrequently, and partic- ularly in some diseases of an inflammatory nature, that the medicines remain in the first or third stomach for a long while after they are administered. Dose after dose is given, and their lack of action is attributed to the obstinacy of the constipation or the inertness of the medicine. At length the rumen is excited to action, and the collected doses are ex- pelled into the fourth stomach and intestines, exciting violent and perhaps fatal action. To avoid this, two precautions are to be observed : — 1. Never give medicine to cattle in a solid form, as balls or pills, but in a liquid state, as in drenches, and with plenty of water, a quart or two at a time. 2. Always combine with cattle medicine which is de- sired to act promptly, some stimulating and aromatic sub- stance which will incite the partly insensible coat of the rumen to action. For this purpose, ginger, carraway seed in powder, and flour of mustard, are generally preferred. Medicines for Cattle. 267 The dose of medicines for cattle is nearly double the amounts used for horses, the formation of the stomach and the phlegmatic temperament of the ox rendering him not readily affected by medicinal substances. Their kidneys and skin are less easily acted on than the corresponding organs in horses; and they resist the action both of stimulants and tonics. Long experience has given the preference to certain drugs for cattle, different from those administered to horses. Thus aloes, which is the favorite purgative for the horse, acts ir-. regularly and feebly in the ox and cow. For them saline cathartics are altogether preferable, either sulphate of mag- nesia (epsom salt), sulphate of soda (glauber salt), or com- mon salt; or, as many prefer, a mixture of the three in equal parts. A pound of such a mixture in a quart or two of water, with a teaspoonful or 4:wo of essence of ginger, or a dash of cayenne pepper, constitutes a most efficient and de- pendable purge. Linseed and castor oils, either of which may be strengthened by the addition of croton oil, are also excellent purges. To exert a continued laxative effect, sul- phur is a very useful means. Mercury in any form must be given to cattle with greater caution than to horses, as, whether it be as calomel internally or as mercurial ointment rubbed on the skin, it salivates and mercurializes them easily. Especially we would advise not using mercury in any shape with milk cows. If pregnant, they are more apt to abort; and the mercury passing into the tissues is secreted with the milk, and is thus conveyed to the human race. A French author states that he has witnessed lambs die from mercurial poisoning, when the ewes had been rubbed with mercurial ointment to destroy insects. 268 Diseases of Cattle, CHAPTER I. THE CONTAGIOUS OR EPIDEMIC DISEASES OF CATTLE. The Cattle Plague — Rinderpest — Contagious Enteric Fever oj Cattle. Pleuro-Pneumonia — Contagious Lung Fever, Foot and Mouth Disease — Epizootic Aphthae — Contagious Eczema. Charbon — Black Quarter — Quarter III — Contagious An- thrax— Bloody Murrain. Splenic Fevei — Texa^ Cattle Disease — Spanish Fever. Cow-pox — Smallpox of Cattle — Variola Vaccina. THE CATTLE PLAGUE— RIMDEEPEST— CONTAGIOUS EITTEIIIC FEVEE OF CATTLE. Definition. — A malignant contagious fever originating on the plains of Asiatic Russia, and conveyed by the exporta- tion of cattle to other countries. It is essentially a disease of the bovine family, but has been known to attack sheep, goats and deer. Causes. — This formidable disease is believed to be owing to a specific poison wliich is given off by the animal suffering from it, or which may be conveyed by a healthy animal from a locality where the disease is prevailing. This last fact has been abundantly proven, and is of prime importance. Symptoms. — The time which elapses between exposure to the poison and the outbreak of the disease is from three days to a week ; and the course of the disease to its usually fatal termination is about a week. But within two days of ex- posure the fever often begins, although its presence may not be noticed, unless the thermometer is used. The average temperature of a healthy ox is 101° Fahren- The CaMe Plague. 269 helt. It has been found that when an animal has been ex- posed to the poison of the cattle plague, and is about to take the disease, the thermometer rises to 103° or 104 °, while no other symptom of disease is present. About two days after this rise of the temperature the breath becomes ill-smelling, and the mouth, as well as the vagina in cows, will be found unnaturally red and hot to the touch, and vaih. a slight eruption of minute blisters on its surface, about the size of a pin's head. These are both very characteristic symptoms. Even at this stage of the disease a day or two may still pass by without the animal showing any very positive signs of being sick. But after the fourth day from the beginning of these warnings is past, the constitution is thoroughly satu- rated with the poison. Then the head begins to droop, the ears hang, the pulse weakens, the breathing is difficult, and there is a foul discharge from the eyes, nose and mouth. The next day, usually the sixth, all these symptoms grow worse, the pulse becomes hardly perceptible, the breath is drawn with effort, and there is great weakness in the limbs. If now the temperature is taken with the thermometer, it will be found below the natural heat, probably at 96° or 98° Fah. Death usually occurs on the seventh day from the time the temperature first begins to rise. Of course, in different epidemics, and in different herds, there is considerable variation from the above description ; but they are those of degree only, and it will serve as a cor- rect type of them all. Treatment. — There is but one treatment for this terrible disease, and that is the preventive one. When it appears in a country, all importations of cattle, sheep, or goats from that country should be positively forbidden by government; when it attacks even a single steer of a herd, not only that steer, 270 Diseases of Cattle. but every member of the herd should be slaughtered before the sun goes down, and the most energetic disinfecting measures be taken with every thing about the premises. No form of disease in the lower animals is more fatal and more contagious than this ; and any hesitation in " stamping it out " at the very first will entail the loss of millions and millions of dollars' worth of stock. Fortunately, it has never had more than a slight foothold in this country ; but we are exposed to it almost every year, and should be prepared to deal with it summarily and effec- tually when it is introduced. Of the medicines which have been tried in its treatment — and about all known to veterinary pharmacy have been ex- perimented with — the most favorable reports have been from bisulphite of soda, chlorate of potash, sulphate of iron and carbolic acid, given by full and frequent doses by the mouth and by injection into the veins. PLEUEO-PNETmONIA— COITTAGIOUS LUHG FEVER. Definition. — A contagious fever of cattle, accompanied by great prostration, together with local inflammation and other diseased changes in the lungs and their envelopes. Cause. — This no doubt is a specific blood poison. It is often slow in its development, several weeks or even months elapsing between the exposure to the poison and the onset of the disease. In its more malignant phases, and particularly at the beginning of an epidemic, it runs a rapid course, de-^ stroying life in the course of a few days ; but generally oc- cupies from four to six weeks. SymptomSi — The earliest symptoms are apt to pass un- noticed. The first that can be observed is a rise of tempera- ture to 103°-106°, indicated by the thermometer in the rectum. The moment this is observed when pleuro-pneu- Pleuro-Pneumonia. 271 monia is about, the animal should be separated from the herd, disinfectants used, and a watch kept for the next de- velopments of the disease. These are slight shivering and staring coat ; some loss of appetite ; scanty milk ; an occasional dry and hard cough ; irregular chewing of the cud ; bowels rather constipated ; urine less than usual, and high or dark in color. These insidious symptoms may continue several days without the appearance of others of a more marked charac- ter. Sometimes there is tenderness on pressure between the ribs over the lungs, as evinced by a slight wince or groan. The cough now increases, the breathing is more frequent, and when the animal stands the elbows are turned out, the nose is extended, the back arched, and the hind legs drawn up under the body. Later on, there is a watery or mattery discharge from the eyes and nose, there is rapid loss of flesh, the animal is hide bound, and there is either obstinate con- stipation or a violent watery diarrhea of fetid matter, which rapidly weakens and destroys life. The symptoms on percussing over the lungs are in the earlier stages a clear or resonant sound, which, as the disease advances, gives way to a dull, heavy one. On listening in the first stage, a dry, creaking sound is heard, caused by the inflamed surface of the lung and its covering (the pleura) rubbing against each other. Later, there are irregular whist- ling or rough breathing sounds, easily distinguished from[]the sounds caused by the lungs in health. The rule is generally positive that where both lungs are afiected the animal dies. Treatment. — It cannot be said that the medical treatment of pleuro-pneumonia is very satisfactory. Many remedies have been recommended from time to time, but the use of them in practice has not met the expectations created. Perhaps the most prudent course is to put the animal in 272 Diseases of Cattle. the best sanitary surroundings possible, and avoid most scrupulously either bleeding, or blistering, or putting iu setons. Give no lowering medicine, neither aconite nor tartar emetic. If constipation is decided, a small dose of salts will remove it. When there is much swelling or " bloating " of the stom- ach, it may be removed by carbonate of ammonia, one ounce in gruel, repeated, if necessarj\ The diet should be low, and some ^sTiters recommend no solid food at all, but feeding on thin gruel, linseed tea, or slippery elm bark water. Slight diarrhea is believed often to be of advantage, and should not be checked ; but when it is violent it may be held up with some astringent, as No. 303. Gallic acid, i oz. Gruel, I pint. Or, No. 303. Alum in powder, J oz. Milk, 1 quart. "When the worst of the attack is over it is well to hasten the return to health by mixing a teaspoonful of sulphate of iron with the food several times a day. Mr. Finlay Dun has found ounce doses of the acid sul-- phite of soda, given twice daily, to lower the temperature and ease the breathing. In the second stage of the disease he has also derived decided benefit by giving, every three or four hours, one or two ounces of whiskey or of oil of tur- pentine. For a tonic mixture Mr. Jekyll recommends : — No. 304. Sulphate of copper, 1 part. Water, 4 parts. Dissolve and add solution of ammonia until it begins to precipitate. The dose is half an ounce every six or eight hours, as soon as the feverish symptoms have abated. Prof. John Gamgee, who made an elaborate report on this disease to the United States Government, published by the -^ POSITIONS ASSUMED BY CATTLE IV DISEASE. Pleura-Pneumonia. 273 Department of Agriculture in 1871, joins in absolute con- demnation of purgatives and bleeding. If the case is seen and attended to early in the disease, he believes its progress may be checked by active internal astringents. He places the whole herd in which the malady has appeared on regu- lar daily doses of sulphate of iron, allomng about half a drachm to a drachm to a bullock, mixed with an equal amount of bruised coriander seeds, given in some bran, the better to disgiiise the iron. Prof. Gamgee has uniformly found its use followed by a mitigation of the cough and a disappearance of the disease in the herd. When the case has progressed to the second stage of the malady, he believes that light but nutritious food, coj)ious warm water injections, and the use of a stimulant, such as half an ounce of carbonate of ammonia in a quart of lin- seed tea, two or three times a day, the most hopeful jilan. But when the lung is already filled and solidified by the progress of the inflammation, the advice of this author is to leave the case to nature. If both lungs are involved, there is substantially no hope ; but if only one is implicated, re- covery occasionally takes place. Blisters, setons, rowels and cauterization, are all out of place in the acute stage, though they may be applied after the fever has abated in some instances. For the cough and debility following the disease, a tonic used by Prof. Gam- gee is : No. 305. Oxide of manganese, Iron filings, each J oz. Tincture of gentian, 1^ oz. Water, 1 pint. To be given daily in gruel. Or the sulphate of iron, as mentioned above. The carholiG add treatment has been unquestionably oi considerable success in various instances. It may be carried out as follows : — 18 274 Diseases of Cattle. Ko. 306. Carbolic acid (pure), 1 drachm Water, 1 pint. For one dose three time a day. The other preparations of the acid, as the carbolate of soda, etc., may also be used, but the above is more direct and simpler. FOOT-AND-MOUTH DISEASE— EPIZOOTIC APHTH.E— CONTAGIOUS ECZEMA. Definition, — A highly contagious, but rarely fatal, febrile disease, occurring in cattle and sheep, and capable of trans- mission to pigs and man ; it is characterized by an eruption of small blisters in the mouth, between the clefts of the hoof, and along its upper margin at the coronet. Clauses. — The cause is a specific poison supposed by some to be of an animal, by others of a vegetable nature. It re- mains in the system from one to four days before it produces the characteristic symptoms. The foot>-and-mouth disease was first introduced into the United States in 1869, and has prevailed more or less ever since. SymptomSi — These are, at first, an increase of temperature in the body, shortly followed by an eruption of small blisters, about the size of a ten-cent piece, on the tongue, in- side the lips, on the roof of the mouth and sometimes on the udder. Smaller blisters also make their appearance in the fissure of the feet, and around the coronets and heels. There are some lameness, a flow of water from the mouth and eyes, constant movements of the lips, and difficulty in swallowing. The blisters soon break and leave behind raw surfaces, which either proceed to healing, or, in severe cases, form ulcers and become gangrenous. Foot-and-Mouth Disease. 275 Treatment. — INIild cases require but little treatment, as they tend to recovery after a week or two, and medicine does little to hasten it. While the mouth is sore, the animal should have plenty of water, with an ounce of saltpetre, or of chlorate of potash, or of powdered borax, dissolved in each bucketful. The food should be slops. The feet should be kept clean, and washed frequently with a mixture like the following : No. 307. Acetate of lead, J oz. Carbolic acid, 1 oz. Water, 1 quart. Mix. Dip pieces of lint or tow in this, and bind them to the foot and between the toes- with a bandage. Where there is extreme weakness, whiskey should be given. The bowels usually become loose as the disease advances, but this condition should not be interfered with, as it is be- lieved to be an eifort of nature to throw off the poison. As a mouth wash the follo'odng is excellent : Xo. 308. Chlorate of potash, 2 oz. Molasses, 8 oz. Eub well together. A spoonful of this to be placed within the lips several times a day. For the external ulcers on the foot, Mr. Gamgee recom- mends : No. 309. Powdered chalk, 4 ozs. " charcoal, 1 oz. " alum, Sulphate of zinc, of each, } OE. Mix for a powder to be sprinkled on the ulcers. The following wash is used for both foot and mouth ulcers : Xo. 310. Sulphate of copper, 1 lb. Soft water, 1 gallon, "Wash the mouth with this, by means of a sponge fastened to a stick and bathe the feet with it, especially between the claws. 276 Diseases of Cattle. CHABBON— BLACK QUAETER— QUAETER ILL— COirTAOIOTTS ANTHKAX— BLOODY MUREAIN. Definition. — A conta2;ious and malignant disease of the blood, most common in cattle, but communicable to all do- mestic animals, and even to man (when it is known as " malignant pustule.") It is called by the French charhon, a. coal, and by the English " black quarter," " black leg," "black tongue," etc., because the part attacked turns of a dark purple or nearly black color, from the decomposition of the blood. Causes, — The French writers, who have given this dis- ease especial study, on account of its prevalence in their country, teach that it arises from contagion ; from spoiled and tainted food ; from pasturing in low swamps and among stagnant pools ; and from hot and damp seasons. It is most commonly seen in summer and autumn, especially when the temperature is high and rain frequent. Most of the latest writers believe that the contagious prin- ciple of charbon or anthrax consists in certain extremely minute vegetable organisms which are found in the blood in vast quantities. They are in the shape of rods, and have been called anthrax bacieria and bacillus anthracls. They are so extremely small that one writer estimates that eight or ten millions may exist in a single drop of diseased blood. Carefully conducted experiments leave hardly any doubt but that these are capable of conveying this disease to healthy animals. These poison-producing organisms have a wonderful ten- acity of life, and hence every part of a diseased animal, the blood, flesh, hides, hair, hoof, horns and excrement are poison- ous, and will convey the infection. Prof. Gross mentions the history of three persons who were attacked by the disease after picking the feathers from a turkey-buzzard (a bird itself POSITIONS ASSUMED BY CATTLE IN DISEASE. Bloody Murrain. 277 not liable to anthrax), ■which had fed on the carcass of an ox dead of murrain. Flies can carry the disease on their feet and probosces. An ox yoke worn by an infected animal has been known to carry the infection to a well one ; and even grain and straw, grown on a soil where a diseased animal has • been buried, are said on good authority to communicate the malady. Strong alcohol does not diminish its virulence. Prof. Agnew tells of his own knowledge a case where a man died of malignant pustule ; his face had been occasionally wiped with a handkerchief saturated with alcohol ; six months afterwards his widow used a little alcohol from the same bottle to bathe her face, and was at once attacked with the same terrible disease. Symptoms. — The animal becomes languid, the ears drop, the eyes are red, the mouth and nose hot and dry, and the pulse rapid and feeble, from 80 to 120 beats per minute. In the course of a short time swellings appear about the loins, back, head, neck, brisket or legs. They cause pain and stiffness, which make the animal unwilling to move or rise up if he is lying down. The appetite is entirely lost, he does not chew the cud, the bowels are constipated, and the urine scanty and dark in color. When the swellings mentioned are felt, they are found to be cool or cold, not very tender or painful, and may give out a crackling sound. They are dark or nearly black in color, having the appearance of mortification. In a few hours or a few days the symptoms of exhaustion deepen greatly ; the animal cannot rise from the ground, his eye is fixed and staring, the breathing is shallow, and he dies often in convulsions. "When the disease attacks the tongue it is known as "black tongue " or "blain ; " and when in the throat, as " malignant sore throat" or " putrid sore throat." At times the tumors form on the intestines, when the prominent sign is the pas- 278 Diseases of Cattle. sage from the bowels of quantities of dark colored Wood, which form is particularly known as " bloody murrain." Or it may attack the spleen, causing a rapid and fatal malady, sometimes described as " apoplexy of the spleen." This is especially common in milk cows. When charbon is prevalent, almost any wound which one of the herd receives, no matter how free he is from the dis- ease, is very liable to put on this malignant form of ulcera- tion, and lead to fatal results. Gloss-anthrax or blain is occasionally, perhaps often, epi- demic among herds. On examining the mouth, the tongue seems enlarged, and large vesicles or blisters, dark red or purple, are seen running along its sides and under surface, especially toward the tip. These vesicles are filled with a bloody fluid, which flows forth when they break, leaving an angry raw spot, which quickly becomes a corroding ulcer. Other blisters form near it, and in malignant cases, the blood of the animal is quickly poisoned, and death may ensue in twenty-four hours. In less rapid cases, the tongue is grad- ually eaten away by the ulcerations, the glands behind and under the jaw swell and break externally, and other ulcers begin to appear about the feet, particularly at the junction of the haw and the hoof, threatening the loss of the hoof. Constipation is always present, and an irritative fever of a low typhoid form speedily makes its appearance, and carries off the animal. This fever led to the disease, in some of its forms, being described as " inflammatorj'- fever of cattle," by Youatt and others ; but a more modern study of its nature has shown that the fever is a symptom only of a general blood poisoning. " Anthrax fever " occurs when the malignant inflamma- tion attacks some of the internal organs. The cow or steer ceases feeding and ruminating, trembles, has partial sweats, Cliarhon in Cattle. 279 arches the back and rests his quarters against a wall or fence. The temperature is high, 105° to 107° ; and this is the ear- liest symptom of the approach of the disease. The eye is sunken, dull and often yellow ; the pulse weak and irregu- lar, the breathing jerky, and there is tenderness over the loins, back or sides. The urine becomes bloody, a bloody liquid escapes from the nose, the eyes and the anus, and the dung is mixed with blood. Hence the expressive name of the disease, " The Bloody Murrain." The temperature falls below the natural one (100°), and the animal dies in convul- sion or stupor, often within twenty-four or forty-eight hours of the first symptoms ; or else, the symptoms rapidly disap- pearing, he makes a prompt recovery. A remarkable form of the disease prevailed in Nebraska in 1872-3. It was confined to cows and heifers. They were attacked, while apparently in perfect health, with a malignant carbuncle or gangrenous swelling at the lower commissure of the vagina, the sj)ot looking " as if dead or frozen." This ulcerated and extended rapidly up the va- gina, involving the rectum and surrounding tissues. In about twenty-four hours from its first appearance, the cow was seized with nervous shudders, violent twitching of the tail and loss of power in the hind quarters. By the wild eye, total loss of appetite and bellowing, it was easy to see the suffering was great. In from thirty-six to forty-eight hours from the beginning of the attack it usually j)roved fatal. Inflammation and ulceration of the lower bowel and vagina were the principal post mortem appearances. It was asserted that the early application of crude petroleum to and in the vagina cured some cases. The facts were reported by Sena- tor Dodge to the United States Commissioner of Agriculture, but the nature of the disease was not recognized at the time. Treatment. — In spite of the extensive studies that have been given to this destructive disease, no very successful 280 Diseases of Cattle. method of treatment has been discovered. It may be pre- mised that all bleedmg, purging, lowering medicines are hm't- ful ; and that all local applications to " backeu" the swellings are useless. Prof. Williams believes the most promising treatment is : No. 311. Chlorate of potash, h oz. Water, 1 pint. ^ Mix and give three times a day. This, he says, is superior to all other medicine. In blain, and whenever the disease arises from inoculation, (as in " malignant pustule " in man), the great majority of cases can be cured if seen at an early period, before the poi- son of the local pustule or vesicle has been absorbed into the system. The treatment must, however, be prompt. The vesicle or pustule must be freely opened Avith a lancet or sharp knife, fi'om end to end, and the raw surface thus exposed thoroughly mopped with a chloride of zinc solution (twenty grains to the ounce of water), with tincture of the chloride of iron, with sulphuric or nitric acid, nitrate of mercury or of silver, or some other efficient caustic. The hot iron itself is the best in some locations. In bloody murrain Youatt and others have spoken highly of chloride of lime (bleaching powder) : — No. 312. Chloride of lime, 2 to 4 drachms. Prepared chalk, 1 oz. Laudanum, 2 drachms. Mix and give in a pint of warm gruel every two or three hours, A similar remedy has been praised by Sir J. Tyrrell, to- wit : — No. 313. Sulphite of soda, 1 oz. Water, 3 gallons. Of this the sick animal is to be given to drink as much as it wants. Mr. Dun combines the soda with chlorate of potash, as : — No. 314. Sulphite of soda, Chlorate of potash, of each 1 oz. Give in a quart or two of water two or three times a day. Charbon in Cattle. 281 Of undoubted and positive efficacy both iu the prevention and treatment of this disease is a seton in the dewlap, and it should always be inserted at the first intimation of the malady, smeared with irritating ointment and turned every day. It should be a broad, coarse tape, a foot long and an inch wide, and it should remain in six or. eight weeks. All animals who die of any form of this disease should be buried at once, as their flesh is poisonous to man and beast, and the odor from their decaying bodies is believed to dis- seminate the disease. Recent French authors recommend as specifics large doses of quinine, one to two drachms repeated every tu-o or three hours in severe cases ; and the hypodermic injection of a solu- tion of iodine in the following solution : No. 315. Iodine, 2 grains. Iodide of potassium, 5 grains. Water, 1 oz. Use a syringeful every hour in severe cases. In extrenie cases this may be thrown into the veins. It is of absolute importance that with this treatment the strength be kept up wdth frequent doses of stimulants, among w^iich these writers reconauend most strongly the carbonate of ammonia. The germs of the disease, when it is epidemic among ani- mals, may be destroyed by fmnigation with sulphur (as re- commended, page 28), and by sprinkling the forage or pastures witli solutions of sulphuric acid, one drachms to two gallons of water. TEXAS CATTLE DISEASE— SPANISH FEVEE— SPLENIC FEVEB, Definition. — A contagious fever originating in the low swauipy lands of Southern Texas, and extended by the ex- portation of cattle to other sections. In its effects on the sys- tem it very closely resembles the Rinderpest of Asiatic Rus- 282 Diseases of Cattle. sia, but it is less destructive and less contagious. Animals are found after death to have the spleen enlarged and soft- ened, the fat is yellow, the blood fluid, and the kidneys broken down. Causes. — The Texan cattle themselves do not appear to suffer from this disease in a violent form ; but it proves very fatal when introduced into Northern herds. Its contao-ion is communicated through the dung, and the roads, pastures and streams convey it into other neighborhoods. It is destroyed at once by frost, and, apparently, one Northern animal cannot give it to another. Symptoms. — Four or five weeks may pass after the poison has been taken into the system before it shows itself. There will be at first a moderate fever, showing an increase of tem- perature to 103° to 107°. This is followed in five or six days by dullness, drooping of the head, arched back, cough, trembling, jerking of the muscles, the horn hot, and the appetite and cud lost. The eyes become glassy and watery, the m'ine turns to a deep red or black from the blood which is in it, and the clung is hard and often coated with blood. When the mouth and rectum are examined, they are found to be of a dark red or coppery color. The animal dies in a stupor or in convul- sions. In 1871 the United States Government 23ublished an elabo- rate study of this disease, prepared by Prof. John Gamgee and other eminent observers. They fomid it to occur in two forms. The first is insidious, latent and usually fatal, and the more frequent form among Southern cattle ; while the more active form is found in Northern herds. After death there is only one diseased condition of the or- gans which is invariably present. The fourth stomacli, how- " ever, is " almost invariably " distinctly inflamed, and tlie Texas Cattle Disease. 283 spleen is uniformly enlarged^ the weight varj^ing from two to ten pounds. It is of a purplish color, and on cutting it the pulp oozes out, it being soft, like currant jelly. From this condition of the spleen, which was found in nearly 5,000 cases, Prof. Gamgee calls the disease " the splenic fever." While not stating positively an opinion on its cause, he does assert that all the cattle in the States bordering on the Gulf of Mexico, for a distance of two or three hundred miles inland, are affected with malaria ; that they have " ague cake " and thin blood, and more or less distm-bance of the stomach; and it is this low tone of the system which he conjectures, leads to an imperfect development of the blood, and the generation* of a "crowd poison," highly injurious to other members of the same species not under the influence of the same conditions. He does not consider it a true epizo- otic or contagious disorder, but one conveyed by the excre- tions of the animals (the dung, urine, etc.,) containing poison- ous matters. Treatment, — The animal should be put in a roomy stall where the ventilation is good, and should have soft food. Internally he should be given twice or three times a day : — No. 316. Chlorate of potash, ^ oz. Tinctureof chloride of iron, 1 oz. Water, 1 quart. Mix, and give at one dose. When the weakness becomes considerable he should have whisky freely. As soon as the most dangerous symptoms are passed the food should be light and plentiful, and tonics be admin- istered, as : — N^o. 317. Sulphate of iron. ^ oz. Tincture of ginger, 1 oz. Water, 1 qt. This amount twice daily. 2^4 Diseases of Cattle. A remedy relied on by many, as the best in this disease, is : — No. 318. Bicarbonate of soda, Carbolic acid, of each, 12 ozs. Glycerine, 4 ozs. Of this the dose is two tablespoonfuls, three times a day, in a quart of water. Prof. Gamgee in his report above referred to does not speak hopefully of any particular plan of treatment. He recommends the animals should be sheltered, the limbs well rubbed, and the bowels moved by injections. Relief is af- forded by ounce doses of laudanum during the first day or two. He adds that he has seen cows return to nearly their full quantity of milk on such treatment, aided by the fol- lowing stimulant : * No. 319. Sulphuric ether, h oz. Solution of acetate of ammonia, 4 ozs. Give in a quart of linseed tea or water, three times a day. COW-POX— VAEIOLA VACCINA. Definition. — A contagious fever, characterized by an emp- tioix which is at first a pimple, then a vesicle, next a pustule, and last a scab. It is the same disease as small-pox in man. Cause. — The only cause positively known is inoculation or contagion. But there seems little doubt but that in cer- tain instances cow-pox^ has appeared " spontaneously " in a dairy. At times it seems to spread rapidly through several herds, but is generally neither very contagious nor is at all dangerous, fatal cases being very rare. S3rmptoms. — There is more or less of fever for a few days preceding the attack. The pimples aj^pear on the teats, udder and belly ; the milk is diminished, and the appetite slightly impaired. Successive crops of vesicles are formed, burst, and dry up, api^earing thus one after another for several weeks. Treatment, — This need not be active. When the disease first appears, it is well to separate those affected with it from the rest of the herd, to prevent the contagion spreading. Coughs and Colds. 28§ CHAPTER II. NON-CONTAGIOUS AND LOCAL DISEASES OP CATTLE. Catarrh — Colds — Coughs — Snoixs — Snivels. Consumption — Wasting — Pining. Hollow Horn — Horn-ail — Ana:mia of Cattle. Hoven — Blown — Impaction of the Rumen or First Stomach. Fardel-hound — 3Iaw-bound — Stomach Staggers — Impaction of the Omasum or Third Stomach — Gastritis of Ruminants — Laheburn. Obstruction of the Boioels. Congestion and Inflammation of the Liver — The Yellows. Jied Water — Black Water — Bloody Urine. Dysentery — Bloody Flux — Scouring Rot. Milk Siclcness — The Trembles. Rheumatism — Felon. Foul in the Foot — Foul-claw. Lice, Ticks and other vermin. CATAEEH— COLDS— SNORES— SNIVELS. These disturbances of the breathing tul)es are in causes, symptoms and treatment essentially the same in cattle as in horses. (See pages 102, 105). Cattle are, however, peculiarly subject in some localities to a stoppage of the nostrils by an abundant, thick secretion, and by the swelling of the lining membrane. This forces them to breathe with some difficulty ; they emit a snorting or snoring sound, from which the disease is locally termed the "snores" or the "snivels." On examination, there is occasionally found a swelling in- side the nostril, which nearly fills the passage, and later bursts and forms an abscess. When this breaks the animal is re- lieved. 286 Diseases of Cattle. This form of nasal catarrh is asserted to be confined to horned cattle. The treatment is to inject the nostrils with olive oil, so as to prevent the drying of the secretion ; to have the animal inhale steam from hot bran mash in a nose bag ; and to syringe the nostril with a disinfectant solution when the ab- scess breaks, A cough in a cow should not be neglected, as these ani- mals are jjeculiarly prone to have it run on into consump- tion. The throat and breast should be well rubbed with mustard stirred up in boiling water, and if there is fever, the following modification of Mr. Youatt's "fever powder" will be in place : — No. 320. Powdered digitalis, J drachm. " ipecac, 1 drachm. Nitrate of potash, Sulphur, each, 2 drachms. To be given in a pint of gruel, linseed tea or slippery elm bark mu- cilage, as occasion requires. When there are no feverish symptoms present, but only an old haciving, or hoarse cough, the following is praised by Mr. Gamgee, as a useful expectorant in all animals : No. 321. Guaiacum, 2 ozs. Sassafras root, 1 oz. Water, 1 qt. Boil to a pint, and add a half ounce of liquorice stick. When dis- solved, strain, and give in two doses, night and morning. Young cattle and calves are particularly liable to a cough from the presence of a species of worm in the throat. "Whenever they are noticed to have a hoarse husky cough this may be suspected. The proper treatment will be con- sidered under Hoose. The bowels should be kept moderately loose in all chronic coughs, the animal sustained on tonics and good and abundant food, protected both from inclement weather and Consumption. 28 7 from too hot stabling ; and it is good practice to insert a seton, and thus establish counter-irritation from the lungs. CONSUMPTION— WASTHSra— PINING. Definition. — A tuberculous disease, allied to phthisis in the human race ; in cattle, rarely found attacking solely the lungs, but rather the intestines, mesentery and serous mem- branes, and other tissues. Causes. — Consumption in cattle, as in the human race, is very often hereditary, and often follows severe and neglscted colds, insufficient food, exposure to cold and wet, excessive milking, and as a sequel to various acute diseases. Symptoms. -'-Those differ in respect to the parts of the system which the disease attacks. When its seat is the intestines, it produces tubercular chronic dysentery. There is a constant scouring, with the discharges bloody, very foul smelling, and mixed with pus. This, and the wasting of the flesh and fever, strongly resem- ble ordinary chronic dysentery ; and, indeed, it is generally considered during life to be this latter disease. In general consumption, the early signs are unthriftiness, irregular appetite, a dry cough, a dull skin and dirty hair. If it is a cow, she will probably abort, the milk wall become thin and watery, and if not pregnant she will probably have violent and continued sexual desire. With these signs there is steady loss of flesh ; the cough increases but there is no discharge from the nose or mouth ; the digestive organs are weak, and watery diarrhea may set in, which soon reduces the animal to a skeleton and destroys life. By listening k) the lungs, some differences from the natural sound are nearly always heard, but these are neither constant 288 Diseases of Cattle. nor well marked. There may be dullness from water on the lungs, and also dropsy of the belly. The disease is very variable in its duration, sometimes running its course in a week or two, sometimes extending over several months. In cases where the serous membranes are most exposed to the tuberculous change, the joints are not unfrequently at- tacked, producing marked and incurable lameness. Ignor- ant farriers often treat these cases with firing, setons and blisters, and thus add still further to the misery of the beast. Treatment. — To have any chance of success, the treat- ment must be begun in the earliest stage of the disease. Cows should not be milked nor oxen worked, fattening food should be given, careful attention paid to their housing and healthy surroundings, and the digestive organs well looked after. The most appropriate food is milk, oil cake, sound hay and ground corn. Internally, cod liver oil should be given in doses from a quarter to a half pint daily. A seton should be inserted and turned daily, to counteract the process of dis- organization. Change of climate docs not seem to be of any benefit in the consumption of cattle. On the contrary, the disease is often produced by such a change, although from a low and swampy to a dry and well drained locality. As the hereditary character of the disease is universally recognized, it is not desirable to raise calves of consumptive mothers. They should be slaughtered, and others obtained for keeping. o c m (/) m -< OD C m -< ^ Hollolo Horn. 289 HOLLOW HORN— HOETT-AIIr-AN^ MIA OF CATTLE. Definition. — A special diseased condition of the blood, in which there is either a deficiency in the amount of blood in the body, or a diminution of some of its important constitu- ents, especially the red blood corpuscles. Causes. — Such a condition of the blood may follow an at- tack of any acute disease where the recovery is slow and par- tial ; but generally it is brought about by poor or insufficient food, exposure and neglect, foul air, lack of cleanliness and other necessary conditions of health. The food may be abundant in quantity, but contain an excess of water and a deficiency of solid matter. Thus, instances are given in the Country Gentleman's Magazine, 1874, where the exclusive use of roots, or of green food groM'ing on damp soil, and even the persistent use of one food only, resulted in this depraved condition of the blood. Cattle fed winter and summer on timothy hay have been known to suifer from it. Monotony of diet in them, as in human beings, leads to the manufac- ture by the digestive organs of an inferior quality of blood. Symptoms. — These are those of general debility and "poor condition." The animal is scant of flesh, hide bound, and with staring coat. The hair is often ragged and lousy. The appetite is ravenous or irregular ; the bowels either consti- pated or too loose, generally the latter, the dung is foul- smelling, and there is much wind j)assed. The pulse is feeble, and the animal easily fatigued. On examining the inside of the mouth, the lining membrane looks paler than usual, and on feeling the horn it is colder than natural, some- times almost " deathly cold." This last mentioned trait is what has given the disease its common name, and the ordinary cowleech imagines the dis- ease is a local one, originating in the horn. Hence he will bore it with a gimlet and squirt some turpentine into the 19 290 Diseases of Cattle. orifice ; or he ■will put a plaster at the base of the horn. But in fact, the temperature of the horn is low on account of the general poverty of the blood, and these measures are vain. Though we have been familiar with cases of this disease from boyhood, we have never seen one where the horn actu- ally was hollow; though that this might not happen through the processes known as atroj)hy and absorption of the inner vascular structure, we do not deny. Later symptoms of the disease are swellings under the jaws and about the navel, and dropsy of the belly. Treatment. — This is suggested by what has been said of the causes of the disease. The animal must be well fed, well housed and well cleaned. The food should be given in small quantities and often. If lousy, as is very often the case, it must be washed and some of the insecticides recom- mended for that purpose mast be applied. No boring or bleeding is needed. It will not be amiss to commence with a moderate dose of salts or oil, to clean out the bowels. The diarrhea, if persistent, should be checked by astringents. After this, a tonic is needed, especially an iron one, in small doses, to aid in enriching the blood ; and with it may be very advantageously combined a little nux vomica, to stimulate the nervous system, as : K'o. 322. Sulphate of iron, 2 drachms. Powdered mix vomica, 1 drachm. Powdered gentian, 1 ounce. This amount daily in dry food or as a drench. After one week it should be suspended for a week, and then resumed for one week more. These measures will cer- tainly cure all cases of hollow horn that do not depend on some serious organic disease. 1. STEAMIXG A STEER. 2. S EAT OF OPERATION FOR IMPACTED RUMEN. Hoven. 291 HOVEN— BLOWN— IMPACTION OF THE ETTMEN. Definition. — A form of indigestion in cattle, frequently accompanying other diseases, consisting of an unnatiu'al dis- tension of the rumen or first stomach by food, and by the gases it gives off in the process of fermentation, or by gases evolved from the walls of the organ. Causes. — In health this condition is brought on by over feeding with damp grasses, especially green clover. Almost any food in excessive quantities may produce it. In various diseases there is a secretion of gas from the inner coat of the stomach, causing great and painful distension, sometimes called " tympanites." Symptoms. — There is a swelling on the left side, which appears while the animal is feeding or shortly afterwards. The breathing is difficult and painful, becoming more so as the gas is generated and the swelling increases. This is manifested by the general ai^pearance of the animal. There are exj)ansion of the nostrils, moaning during expiration, belching, dribbling from the mouth and uneasiness. The animal loses his cud. The bowels are constipated ; and if the swelling is great, there will be a prominence and Avild- ness of the eye, which is diaracteristic of obstruction to the entrance of air into the lungs. Unless relieved, the animal will die from suffocation, from laceration of the stomach, or from blood poisoning from the gases. Treatment, — In very severe cases, when the swelling is from gases, the proper course is to plunge a trochar into the rumen and allow the gas to escape through the canula. The operation is to be performed on the most prominent part of the swelling, and if the tube becomes choked by the contents of the stomach, it must be cleaned out with a wire or stick. When the symptoms are not so urgent as to call for this 292 Diseases of Cattle. measure, they can generally be relieved by some of tbe stimu- lants given below. After the severe symptoms are relieved, a strong purgative is to be prescribed, such as : — No. 323. Epsom salts, | lb. Croton oil, 20 drops. Linseed oil, 1 pint. Mix. In cases where the swelling is from over feeding, and the rumen is crammed with solid matters — which is easily recog- nized by its doughy feel and solid sound on percussion — it is often necessary to empty it before any medicines can take effect. The best method of performing this operation is as follows : Fasten the animal by its nose, with its right side to the wall ; then plunge a sharp bistoury into the rumen, begin- ning midway between the last rib and the spine of the haunch bone, and from four to six inches from the back bone, cutting downward until the ojaening is large enough to admit the hand. Then run a stitch through from the skin to the inner part of the stomach at the lower portion of the cut, so that the contents of the stomach may not escape into the cavity of the abdomen. Turn out with the hand these contents. Clean the edges of the wound thoroughly. Sew up first the coats of the stomach, turning the edges in ; and next the outer wound in the usual manner. Apply a stiff pitch plas- ter over the wound, and feed the animal on small quantities of slops for a few days. Of medicines, Mr. Dun recommends turpentine, in small and repeated doses, as half an ounce every fifteen minutes, until four ounces are taken. Mr. Gamgee prefers assa- fcetida : — Ko. 324. Assafoetida, J oz. Linseed oil, 1 pt. Mix for a drench. Impaction of the Stomach, 293 Or:—. No. 325. Strong solution of Water, For a drench. ammonia, Ipt. Or:— No. 326. Creasote, Water, For a drench. 2 drachms. 1 pt. Other stimulants used are whiskey and brandy, oil of peppermint, essence of ginger, and red pepper tea, either of which will at times work satisfactorily, and at others fail entirely. When the animal is liable to frequent returns of the dis- ease, Prof. Law recommends careful dieting, and the follow- ing tonic : No. 327. Fenugreek, Iron rust, Carbonate of soda, Common salt, of each, 4 ozs. Powdered nux vomica, 2 drachms. Mix well, and give a heaping tablespoonful, twice daily, in the food. FAKDEL-BOUND—MAWBOTJND— STOMACH STAGGEES— IMPACTION OF THE THIRD STOMACH— GASTRITIS OF RUMINANTS— LAEEBURN. Definition. — Distension of the third stomach, the many- plies or omasum, with undigested food, which may be followed by congestion and inflammation of its lining mem- brane, and also of that of the fourth or true stomach, the caul or abomasum. The best authorities on veterinary medicine, such as the late Professor Dick and Professor Williams, do not make a distinction in practice between impaction and inflammation of the third stomach. By the older writers impaction was called " fardel-bound," and inflammation, " lake-burn ;" and they taught that the third stomach alone was the one usually at fault. Closer observation has shown that the symptoms 294 Diseases of Cattle. of these sujjposed diseases really refer principally to inflam- mation of the fourth or true stomach. The third compart- ment, indeed, participates in the disorder ; as do also often the first and second stomachs ; but the main and principal seat of the morbid change is in the abomasum ; thus show- ing the disease to be a true gastritis, or inflammation of the stomach. Causes. — The causes of the disease are sudden changes in the food, or in its condition. Sometimes the consumption of damp or mouldy hay will produce it. More frequently it appears when the animals eat ravenously of spring grass, clover or green corn. So also an excess of corn meal, cotton cake, or similar dry and heating food ; or irritating sub- stances, as wild mustard, or various poisonous articles are liable to bring it on. S3^ptoniS. — A highly excited state of the nervous system is a distinguishing symptom. It is shown by a glaring eye, madness, staggers or fits, or by stupidity and palsy of the hind quarters. The bowels are at first loose, but this is soon followed by an obstinate constij)ation. The animal often strains vio- lently, and passes both blood and watery substances ; and a hard swelling may sometimes be detected on the right side, owing to impaction of the stomach. In many cases swelling of the whole bowels and stomachs comes on early in the di- sease, causing severe colicky pains, and greatly adding to the animal's suffering. After death, the contents of the third stomach are gen- erally found hard and dry, the coats of the fourth stomach red and inflamed, or pale and soft, and the bowels filled with gas and watery, half digested food. The fluid condition of the contents of the intestines shows that the obstinate coni=ti- pation is due to palsy of the bowels. Fardel-Bound. 295 Treatment. — The old treatment of this disease was bleed- ing largely until the animal was faint ; giving it a full sized dose of purgative medicine, and pouring cold water from a height upon its head. Very few surgeons would follow this plan now. Recog- nizing that the disease is an inflammation of the coats of the stomach and bowels, to give strong purges is to rasp and irri- tate still more the inflamed membrane, and to lessen the chances for life which the beast has left him ; and to bleed in a disease where death often comes through exhaustion, is contrary to all prudent doctrine. Therefore it is best to begin with a sedative and an alkali, as : — No. 328. Extract of belladonna, 2 drachms. Bicarbonate of soda, 1 oz. Mix in a quart of water and give three or four times a day. Or— No, 329, Tincture of aconite root, 20 drops. Lime water, Sweet oil, each 4 oz. Add to a quart of milk and give three times a day. Give the animal plenty of milk and water to drink, and as soon as the severest symptoms are abated, horn down a quart of linseed oil, repeating it every twenty-four hours till it brings on a moderately free evacuation of the bowels. Professor Strangeway's treatment, which was very success- ful, was as follows : He gave, to begin with, such a dose as this : — No. 330. Laudanum, 2 oz. Castor oil, 1\ pints. To be given at one dose. When the feverish symptoms had to some degree abated, he prescribed : — No. 331, Sulphate of magnesia, 10 oz. Sulphuric acid, 20 drops. Quinine, 30 grains. Mix with a quart of water for one dose. 296 Diseases of Cattle. After this he kept the animal quiet, and did not disturb its bowels with any medicine for three or four days, when, if tlie constipation continued, the last prescrij)tion was repeated. He found it very seldom necessary to do this. A peculiar form of impaction of the third stomach is of fre- quent occurrence in the corn producing districts of the United States, where at times it has severely devastated the herds. This disorder formed the subject of a special report to the De- partment of Agriculture by Prof. Gamgee, published in 1871. He found that it was owing to the cattle eating quan- tities of smutty or ergoted corn, and the disease is conse- quently most frequent after wet seasons. The cattle are constipated. The animal lies down, has an unthrifty coat, dry muzzle, dull eye, trembles easily, perhajjs shivers, or seems delirious. One of two conditions predomi- nate ; one of stupor, staggering and sluggishness ; or else of excitement, wildness and a|)parent blindness. The animal dies speedily, in from one to four days. At death the third stomach is always found firm, distended, and the food caked between the folds, while the fourth stomach contains but a scant quantity of greenish, half digested matter. Almost all animals die unless relieved ; but fortunately it is not difficult to treat them so successfully that the danger can be averted. At fi/st a purgative must be administered. The one Prof. Gamgee recommends is : — No. 332. Sulphate of magnesia, 1 lb. Powdered aloes, 4 drachms. Powdered ginger, 2 drachms. Water, 1 quart. Give in warrt. linseed tea, oat meal gruel or water. • "Warm watei injections are of the highest importance, and lihey can be given in such cases most advantageously by the /"unnel described on j^age 43. About a quart or two of lukewarm "v^ater, without any addition but a little sweet Obstruction of the Bowels. 297 oil to lubricate the instrument, should be poured into the rec- tum every half hour. On the second day it may be found that the medicine does not act very freely. The best agent to be given then is : — - No. 333. Carbonate of ammonia, J drachm, Linseed tea. 1 quart. Mix for a drench twice or thrice a day. As soon as the appetite returns, a succulent diet, such as grass, sweet hay, boiled turnips, etc., will complete the cure. OBSTETJCTION OF THE BOWELS. Definition. — A closure of the intestinal tube, either by twisting upon itself, when it is known as " gut tie" or "the cords;" or by being involved in the sac of an irreducible rup- ture ; or other mechanical means. Causes. — In the ox such a condition may arise from cas- tration carelessly performed, as was pointed out by Professor Dick, of Edinburgh ; or from dust balls or foreign substances becoming impacted in the bowels and setting up inflamma- tion which binds the intestines in a cord ; or from kicks and severe blows, leading to the same result. Though perhaps more common in the ox, it is not, as Mr. Youatt taught, at all confined to that animal. Symptoms. — These are obstinate and absolute constipa- tion, and excessive pain, coming on in paroxysms of atro- cious severity. The belly swells, the ears and horns are cold, the eyes are indicative of intense suffering, the mouth and muzzle turn pale, and the breathing is laborious and heard at a distance. The disease continues for six or eight days, and death comes from exhaustion. Treatment. — The result is usually fatal. Yet cases are on record where recovery took place, and the obstruction was overcome. 298 Diseases of Cattle. Purges of all kinds are utterly out of j)lace. They are both useless and harmful. The only medicine to give by the mouth is the following : — Ko. 334. Laudanum, 2 oz. Extract of belladonna, 2 drachms. Essence of ginger, 1 drachm. Eub down the extract in a pint of linseed tea, and give the whole every two or three hours. No fears must be had of over dosing, as it is a hand to hand fight with death. Large clysters of warm water should be given by the rec- tum, and repeated every two hours. In some instances the addition of a spoonful of tobacco tea to these clysters have brought about severe nausea, and with it a relaxation of the " tie," followed by prompt relief. THE YELLOWS— CONGESTION AND INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. This is by no means so common a disease among cattle as many farriers would have us believe. It is more frequent in the Southern than in the Northern States, in the late sum- mer and fall than at other seasons, and in milk cows and stall fed steers than in other members of the herd. Causes. — Over feeding with rich food, the use of heating condition powders, sudden changes of the weather from hot to cold, producing chills, excessive milking, gall stones, and old age. Symptoms. — The animal " loses the cud," as the herdmen say ; that is, he ceases to ruminate. He appears dull and languid, is hide bound, and has a rough, unhealthy coat. He is loath to move, loses appetite and is generally listless and sluggish. Sometimes he staggers and seems weak. On examining the whites of the eyes and the interior of the mouth, it is found that they have a dull, muddy, yellow- ish cast. The bowelc are generally costive or have a loose, ill- Liver Diseases. 299 smelling scouring. In cows, the secretion of milk is lessened ; and in the j^asture they wander oif hj themselves in a de- jected manner. Treatment. — This should begin by changing the animal's food and surroundings. If it is a stall-fed steer, he should be turned into the yard or field, given plain sweet hay or bran mashes, with plenty of water. If it is a milk cow on a rich pasture, she should be stabled in a roomy stall and fed on light slops, her coat well rubbed and curried, and milked only moderately. For medicines, a moderate warm laxative is in order, as : — K^o. 335. Powdered aloes, Powdered ginger, each, J oz. Castile soap (scraped fine), Peruvian bark (powdered), each 1 oz. Mix in a pint of warm water for a drench. This may be repeated once every three or four days. Another excellent combination is to use small doses of turpentine and salts, as: — No. 336. Sulphate of magnesia, Common salt, each \ lb. Oil of turpentine, 1 to 2 oz. Slippery elm mucilage, 1 quart. Give every day or every other day for a week or two. The following also will be found efficient in slow cases. It is a modification of a formula of Prof. Law : — No. 337. Podophyllin, 20 grains. Powdered nux vomica, 1 drachm. . Sulphate of magnesia. Powdered gentian, each 1 oz. Mix in a quart of gruel or linseed tea for a drench every day or two. When jaundice is brought on by a gall stone, we have, in addition to the yellow skin as seen in the mouth, and the jaundiced eye, heaving of the flanks, a hard, rapid pulse, no appetite, but an insatiable thirst. The ears are alternately cold and hot, the urine changes to a transparent yellow, dark 300 Diseases of Cattle. red or brown, the bowels are constipated, and when the dung passes it is in hard and black masses. For this condition a full dose of salts is demanded, combined with opium to re- lieve the pain, as : — No. 338. Sulpliate of magnesia, Croton oil, Laudanum, lib. 20 drops. 2oz. Mix in a quart of linseed tea. Mashes should be given to hasten and increase the action of the physic, and the animal should be turned out to grass , during the day. BED WATEE— BLACK WATER— BLOODY VRIKE. Definition. — A disease of cattle characterized by the pas- sage of reddish, chocolate colored or black urine, the color- ing matter being derived from the blood. The exact nature of this disease is not yet clearly ascer- tained. The urine always contains albumen and broken- down corpuscles ; but the kidneys indicate no inflammation, their color is lighter than natural, the tubules are enlarged, and sometimes their lower surfaces spotted with effused blood. It is probable, therefore, that the disease is a general degeneration of the system, showing itself by an early and obscure form of kidney disease, similar to some of the phases of Bright's disease in man. Cause. — This is well ascertained to be scanty and un- healthy food. Indeed, it has been called in England "the disease of the poor man's cow." It is quite common in cows two or three weeks after calving, when they are fed on turnips grown on sw^amp lands. It is also frequent in bad weather, when food is scanty, and of inferior quality. Symptoms. — The characteristic symptom is the color of the urine. With this are associated great prostration, palpi ta- Hcd Water and Black Water, 30'J tion of the heart, a rapid aLd trembling pulse, aud at first diarrhea, which is followed by obstinate constipation. In the form which attacks cows after calving, there is, in addition to the above signs, loss of milk, and the vagina has a contracted or puckered-up a^jpearance. The milk some- times froths unusually in the pail, and on standing deposits a reddish sediment. The black water is said by some writers to appear after the red, and to be a sign of the advance of the disease to a more serious stage. "When the change takes place from red to black water, the animal often stales several times of a natural color. Treatment. — As the complaint is essentially one of faulty or insufficient food, the most pressing rule is to put the ani- mal at once on sound and abundant diet. It should be taken from a low lying or scanty pasturage, to one well drained and set in succulent grass ; or if stall-fed, turnips should be discarded, and plenty of boiled meal, corn, bran and sound hay be supplied. Besides this, rich animal food is of great value, as half a dozen eggs beat up in half a gallon of milk several times a day. The violent purgative medicines, and the strong as- tringents so much and so indiscreetly urged by old writers, should be avoided. The bowels do best with moderate doses of oil, as : — No. 339. Castor oil, 2 cz. Linseed oil, 1 pt. Give at a dose, and repeat every two days for three or four times. The diarrhea generally present at the outset of the disease should not be checked, as it is an effort of nature to relieve the overloaded circulation. And for the constij)ation which follows, the above oil mixture will be sufficient to relieve it. Along with the above, a chlorate of potash and iron mix- ture is always of great benefit : — 302 Diseases of Cattle. No. 340. Chlorate of potash, J oz. Tincture of chloride of iron, ^ oz. Mix in a pint of thin gruel for a dose : to be repeated twice a day. Mr. Gamgee speaks well of the following : — No. 341. Sulphuric acid, 1 drachm. Laudanum, ^ oz. Molasses, 4 oz. Mix with a pint of water in warm gruel and give daily. Turpentine is advocated by Mr. Dun, Mr. Downing and others, as : — No. 342. Oil of turpentine, 2 oz. Nitrate of potash, 3 oz. Iron rust, 1 oz. Mix for two doses, night and morning, in gruel. The sulphate of iron (copperas) may be substituted for the iron rust. DYSEin^RY— BLOODY FLUX— SCOimnTG ROT. This disease has already been described as it occurs in the horse (page 143). But it is much more frequently seen in cattle, where it has received the name " scouring rot," when it appears in its chronic form. Symptoms. — In cattle the acute form is attended with shivering, arching of the back, and tenderness about the loins. The animal grunts, yawns, grinds its teeth, and at short intervals discharges from its bowels a thin and ill- smelling dung, mixed with blood and pus. There is much straining of the lower bowel, and the anus looks sore and red. There is pain in the belly indicated by arching of the back, whisking of the tail, and swelling of the bowels. The thirst is excessive, the animal is dull and stupid and loses flesh rapidly. In the chronic form the thinness is marked, the hide is rough, unhealthy and often mangey, the teeth are loose, and the dung bloody and fetid. The eyes sink in the head, Dysentery. 303 dropsical swellings appear about the lower jaw and legs, and the creature dies exhausted. Treatment. — In either form a change of diet is absolutely- necessary to a restoration to health. If stabled, put on dry food, and given a pint of linseed oil every day or every other day, most slight cases of the acute kind will rapidly recover. It may be well if the action of the bowels does not cease promptly, to give a mild astringent, as : — No. 343. Powdered alum, Powdered ginger, each, h oz. Mix and give in a quart of milk ouce or twice a day till the dis- charge moderates. Or, No. 344. Powdered galls, Ipecacuanha, each J OB. Mix and give as above. The chronic form Is a very obstinate disease, and not un- frequently baifles every attempt to cure it. Here, too, close attention to diet stands In the first line of treatment. Some writers recommend that all vegetable food be withheld, and the animal fed on broths, thin soups, the blood of other ani- mals and milk. The follovdng Is an excellent food in such cases : — No. 345. Fresh mutton suet, 2 lbs. Fresh milk, 6 quarts. Mix with gentle heat over a slow fire and give while warm. Another valuable form of diet Is : No. 346. Cod liver oil, 2 to 4 oz. Fresh eggs, 4 to 5. Mix thoroughly in a quart of fresh milk and give twice a day. To support these articles of diet, we may choose a gentle and stimulating astringent, as : — No. 347. Calcined rhubarb in powder, 1 oz. Powdered chalk, 2 oz. Powdered opium, 2 drachms. Mix as a ball or in the food. To be given every morning. 304 Diseases of Cattle. "When tlie dysentery is of an epidemic character, Mr. Gamgee recommends that the early feverish symptoms be subdued with twenty or thirty drops of the tincture of acon- ite root, given twice daily ; and this followed, when the acute symptoms subside, with one of the following : — No. 348. Chloride of lime, Tincture of arnica, each 2 drachms. Nitric ether, 1 oz. To be given two or three times a day in gruel. Or, No. 349. Solution of potash, Wine of ipecac, of each 1 oz. Tincture of cantharides, J oz. To be given in a quart of warm gruel daily. When the discharges are slimy, bloody and weakening, sometimes rajjid improvement is derived from the fol- lowing : — No. 350. Corrosive sublimate. 8 grains. Water, 1 pint. Give one to two tablespoonfuls of this in a quart of water every two hours. The dose must, on no account, be greater than this. This is well spoken of by Mr. Finlay Dun and others. MILK SICKNESS— THE TREMBLES. Definition. — A disease of unknown origin, affecting the blood and nervous system, strictly confined to certain locali- ties in the Western and Southern States. Cause. — This very strange disease has completely puzzled all observers to account for its appearance. It is developed in cattle by pasturing in certain definite localities, a particu- lar meadow, mountain side or bottom. Many have attrib- uted it to eating some poisonous plants, especially the white snake root, Eiqjatorium ageratoides. But the flora of the localities in question has been repeatedly scrutinized by competent botanists, and no plant whatever of a poisonous Milh Sickness. 305 character discovered, (and it appears where the snake root is unknown, and is unknown where that plant is common), have assigned it to drinking water, and others again to an " emanation from the soil." But all these are guesses only. It is common in some parts of Ohio, Indiana, Southern Illinois, Tennessee and South Carolina. One of its most serious features is that it is communicable to man through the milk of diseased animals ; and it is in many instances incurable, and finally fatal. So concentrated is the poison that hides of animals which have died of it, if eaten by rats and mice, will destroy them as certainly as "ratsbane," as has been proven on un- questionable authority. Horses and sheep are also liable to attacks of it. Symptoms. — The principal symptoms of the trembles are great weakness and prostration of the nervous system, dull- ness and drooping, accompanied by obstinate constipation and colic. The animals are unable to make any but the shortest journeys, and on the least fatigue stagger and tremble, or drop down. Should they recover, or apparently so, and resume their usual condition of health, this nervous exhaustion remains, and they are never able to bear a long march. Animals which die of the disease usually present an acute inflamma- tion of the intestinal canal. Treatment. — This is either by large doses of stimulants or by full quantities of salts and other purgatives, aided by injections to overcome the constipation ; or by both these methods combined, as occasion demands. The pasturage should be changed and the suspected field ploughed up and cropped ; or if it is a grove, it should be cut down, stubbed and tilled. Whatever the cause of the 20 306 Diseases of Cattle. disease may be, it has been conclusively shown that it disap- pears by cultivation of the infected district. As the milk of poor and underfed animals is always much more dangerous than that of well fed ones, a full diet and tonics are clearly demanded in all cases where the trembles have showed themselves. BHEUMATISM— FELON. This disease has already been spoken of as it affects the horse, and the symptoms and treatment in cattle are substan- tially the same. (See page 178). The advantages of blisters are conspicuous, and their use should not be neglected. Nitrate of potash (saltpeter) should be given to the ox in larger doses than to the horse, say two ounces twice a day ; and a purge, half a pound to a pound of sulphate of magnesia (epsom salts) is preferable to aloes. Cows, when suffering from rheumatism, will often lie down and refuse to rise. In such cases repeated change of bedding is absolutely necessary. The animal must be kept dry, clean and warm. The inflamed joints should be wrapped in dry flannel, and protected from injury. Rheumatism in cattle is more apt than in any other ani- mal to pass into suppuration and sloughing of the joint, causing what is sometimes called " bustian foul." This con- dition is incurable, and when it occurs the animal should be slaughtered at once, to put it out of its misery. Treatment. — Of several plans of treatment specially adapted to cattle we may mention that by suljjhur. This drug has an old and probably just reputation for clironic cases. No. 351. Flour of sulphur, 8 oz. Ginger, ^ oz. Give in gruel every third day. Small doses of turpentine combined with an alkali have also received praise in responsible quarters, as : — Treatment of Rheumatism. 307 No. 352. Oil of turpentine, 1 oz. Bicarbonate of soda, 1 to 2 oz. This anaount in gruel every day or two. Another frequently valuable mixture for old cases is : — No. 353. Powdered guaiacum, Caraway .seeds. Aniseed, of each 2 or 3 drachms. Give in a quart of a decoction of willow bark every day . The willow bark contains salicin, a drug of much value in rheumatic complaints. Of embrocations to relieve the affected joints, those con- taining turpentine are among the best, as : — No. 354. Neat' sfoot oil, 4oz. Oil of origanum. Oil of turpentine, Laudanum, of each 1 oz. Mix and apply by gentle and thorough friction. No. 355. Olive oil, 2 oz. Oil of turpentine. Strong solution of ammonia, each 1 oz. Mix. This is a strongly exciting liniment. These are very suitable in the " lumbago," or pain in the loins, Avhich cows and oxen of rheumatic constitution are apt to be troubled with. In such cases, besides friction with the above, it is well to keep the lower bowel free with warm in- jections of water or soap and water, and to cover the hind quarters of the animal with rubber cloth. This variety of rheumatism is sometimes known as " felon," when in its acuter form. The beast is then more or less off his food. His coat is staring, his eye dull, his nose is dry and his back or loins are sore, so that he flinches wliezi the hand is pressed along the sides of the backbone, and arches his back. Often with this his teeth loosen. In such cases, if he is well housed and given the following cordial, he will generally soon recover : — 308 Diseases of Cattle. Ifo. 356. Turmeric, Fenugreek, Powdered aniseed, Powdered liquorice, of each 1 os. Mix, and give in a quart of ale daily for a few days. • A respectable English writer, Mr. M. M. Milburn, in his work on Dairy Husbandry, recommends a singular opera- tion for this comjjlaint, which he says he has tried in hun- dreds of cases with entire success. It is to cut the under side of the tail. This relieves the back and fastens the teeth. The operation is thus performed : Feel for a soft place on the under side of the tail. The knobs felt are the joints ; between them lies the bone. Cut the skin across at the soft part ; it will bleed for eight or ten minutes. When the bleeding has ceased, tie up the tail with a piece of linen cloth. As the operation is simple and safe, and may act in some efficient curative manner, it is worth remembering. FOUL IN THE FOOT— FOUL CLAW. Definition. — A disease of cattle characterized by inflam- mation and suj)puration of the substance between the cleft of the hoof, and occasionally extending to the bones and joints of the foot, j)roducing great lameness, with much fever, loss of condition, and even death. It is most commonly, but not invariably, seen in the hind feet. Causes. — These are : Overgrowth of the hoof, causing an excessive strain on its parts ; the irritation of pebbles, thorns, dirt or other foreign substance caught between the claws ; and sometimes a general scrofulous character of the constitution. Symptoms. — These are evident in the lameness of the animal, and in the condition of the foot. Where it arises from a scrofulous condition of the blood, it is aj)t to be asso- ciated with the signs of consumption, as described on page 1. XOSE BAG FOR GIVING INHALATIOX. 2. BANDAGE FOR FOUL CLiW. 3. THE VACCINE DISEASE ON A TEAT. Foul in the Foot. 309 287. In these instances the efforts at cure will not be likely to prove successful. Treatment. — If attended to in time, the disease is not difficult to manage, except when it is owing to scrofula. All loose horn should be removed, and all dirt and foreign sub- stances. The wound, if much inflamed, should then be poul- ticed for a day or two ; and after that dressed with one of the astringent applications given below (Nos. 357-9). If the pus has burrowed much in the surrounding tissue, it is best to syringe the foot thoroughly with a solution of carbolic acid, one j^art of the acid to ten or twelve of water ; and having done this, soak small pledgets of tow in the solu- tion and fasten them in the wound with bandages. The ani- mal should be kept in a clean stable, or on a dry, short pas- turage. Some neglected cases are met with, where the foul has ex- tended into the foot and up as high as the fetlock ; the claws are separated by the swelling, the bones are attacked and rotten, the stench is overpowering and the animal " dead lame." Cattle so troubled will give up the struggle for life ; will refuse their food, lose flesh, lie down and die. But even such desperate cases may be often cured com- pletely by amputation — taking off the foot through the fet- lock joint; or, if this is too diseased, by sawing through the canon bone above it. This is not a difficult nor dangerous operation, and gives the owner a chance to feed up the ani- mal for the butcher, which should be done as soon as possi- ble. The animal should be cast, a sharp knife used, and abundantly long flaps of sound skin and flesh be left on each side of the limb, to fold over and cover the ends of the bone. Bleeding should be prevented by a tourniquet, and the arte- ries carefully tied. Carbolized water is the best dressing for 310 Diseases of Cattle. the stump, as it is not only disinfecting and healing, but keeps away the flies. Of local applications to foul claw there are many, as : — No. 357. Oil of turpentine. Lard, of each 4 oz. Powdered sulphate of copper, 1 oz. Melt together the lard and turpentine and add the copper. Iso. 358. Carbolic acid, 1 drachm. Water, 6 oz. Apply by a brush or feather, and cover with a piece of tow wet with it. No. 359. Chloride of zinc. Water, 10 to 20 grains. 1 oz. Use as the last. Saturated solutions of alum, or of sulphate of copper, or the sulphate in crystal, or the pencil of nitrate of silver, may also be used to remove the diseased slough. Mr. Youatt's suggestion of a poultice mixed with one-fourth oil of tur- pentine is useful where it is difficult to cleanse the hoof. LICE, TICKS, AND OTHEE VERMIN. Cattle, cows and calves, especially when in poor condition, are very subject to attacks of several species of lice, and as these pests propagate with incredible rapidity, they infect other stock as well as the stables and barns. Hence, no time should be lost in attacking them vigorously ; and at the same time the cattle are treated, the stables should be thor- oughly cleaned and whitewashed, and the posts, stones and other scratching places be painted with crude petroleum or gas tar. On a previous page (260) we have suggested various remedies for lice in horses, any of which may also be used in cattle. None, however, of a poisonous character should be used on these latter animals on account of their habit of licking themselves, and each other. A useful wash, and a justly popular one, is a strong decoction of tobacco leaves, lAce on Cattle. 311 saturated with rock salt. With this the hide should be well satui'ated several times at intervals of three or four days. This repetition is absolutely essential to success, as the nits in which the lice store their eggs, and which can readily be seen fastened to the hair, have a covering of a waxy material wholly insoluble in water or mild alkalies. They all hatch out in a week or ten days, and by repeating the wash, the young are killed before they have had time to deposit other nits. The covering of the nits is, however, readily soluble in alcohol. Therefore, the most effective of all louse-killing preparations are made by pouring common spirits of some kind on tobacco leaves, allowing it to stand for a few days then bottling for use. Such tinctures of stavesacre seeds, and of cocculus indicus are also very promptly destructive to vermin of all kinds in the hide and fleece of animals ; but these two last mentioned drugs are actively poisonous when taken internally, and must not be carelessly used. It may be said of the cocculus, that it is so intensely bitter that we question whether a cow would lick her hide with that flavor on it. An excellent and cheap oily preparation is : — No. 360. Linseed oil, 4 parts. Common creosote, 1 part. Mix well together. Another is : — No. 361. Flowers of sulphur, 1 Ih. Oil of turpentine, ^ pt. Train oil, 4 pints. Mix the sulphur with the train oil by gentle heat, and when cold stir in the turpentine. Ticks which infest live stock should not be pulled off, but snipped in two with a j)air of scissors, and the head half which remains touched with a feather dipped in oil of tur- pentine. 312 Diseases of Cattle, No. 362. Common carbolic acid, 1 oa. Whale or neats foot oil, 1 qt. Mix for outward use. This both destroys vermin and keeps away flies from ani- mals. FACIAL EXPRESSIONS OF CATTLE IN DISEASE. Diseases of Cows, 313 CHAPTER III. DISEASES OF THE COW IN PREGNANCY AND CALVING. Barrenness or Sterility. Abortion — Slinking — Slipping — Dropping the Calf. Calving or Parturition ; Rigid Neck of the Womb ; Bending of the Neck of the Womb. Unnatural Positions of the Calf. Flooding. Retained After-birth. Inversion of the Womb. Medical Treatment of Calving. Management of the Milk ; To dry the milk ; To bring on or increase the milk ; To correct bloody and blue milk. Milk Fever — Pueiyeral Fever — Parturient Fever — Partur- ient Apoplexy — Inflammation of the Womb. Garget — Caked Bag — Mammitis. BABBENNESS OB STEBILITT. Barrenness in high priced cows, bought or raised for the purpose of breeding, is a serious loss to the owner, and it is worth making energetic attempts to remedy it. Its causes are either constitutional or accidental. Constitutional barrenness generally exists in heifers twinned with a bull calf. They are called " free martins," and rarely go in heat, and when they do, they fail to conceive. Usually they have a steer-like appearance, though smaller in growth. When their sexorgans are examined they are found to be small and ill-developed. Incomplete growth of the ovaries and malformations of the genital organs, are other constitutional causes of sterility found occasionally in the lower animals. It is needless to say that any attempt to remedy these defects are vain. 314 Diseases of Cattle. Accidental barrenness is quite frequent. In the large majority of cases it can be traced directly to improper food or exercise. This does not mean insufficient food. On the contrary, probably the most common of all causes of barren- ness in cows is overfeeding — to which the most valuable ani- mals are for obvious reasons most exposed. It is well ascert9,ined that a fat heifer is slow to heat and uncertain in conception. Such animals should be turned out on a poor pasture with a young bull. This will often succeed in cases given up as hopeless. Lack of exercise is another common cause. Many in- stances might be quoted where a barren cow, after driving a hundred miles and then turned in with a bull, bred in a short time. Part of the effect of this may be owing to change of climate. For it has often been noticed that cows barren on the low lands have bred when changed to a hilly, bracing upland pasture ; or from the interior to the seashore. Fatty and sweet food, such as oil cake, sugar cane, sorghum, etc., have a tendency to prevent the proper change of the ovaries ; indeed, they are asserted to bring about a fatty de- generation in their substance, and thus lead to permanent sterility. Causes of an opposite kind are too great delicacy of con- stitution, and a lack of vigor either from a wasting disease, over-milking or absence of nutritious food. In the first stas^e of consumption cows generally heat violently and repeatedly, but do not conceive. The general treatment of barrenness will be suggested by the above remarks. When it apj^ears to be owing to exces- sive fat, a full dose of sulphate of magnesia, repeated two or three times at intervals of a week, will aid in bringing the animal to proper condition. Good breeders should be only in good flesh, without being forced. Not only do they take the bull more regularly, but they have healthier calves, and are less liable to drop them prematurely. * Abortion or SUnhing. 315 Of course, the barrenness may be due to the bull. If he is excessively fat or lean, or old, or diseased, it may interfere with his procreative powers; so that a cow which seems well fitted for conception, and yet remains barren, should be served by diiferent bulls. It has been supposed by some waiters that a perfectly healthy cow may fail with an equally healthy bull, and yet take with another one. This appears to occur, for example, where the relationship is very close. ABORTION— SLINKING— SLIPPING— DKOPPIKG THE CALF. The premature dropping of the calf usually occurs from the fourth to the seventh month. It frequently becomes epidemic in a dairy, and the immense loss it entails on farm- ers may be judged from a statement made some years ago by the New York State Agricultural Society, that in that State alone the money value of the loss had been for several years over four million dollars annually. \Yithm the last few years many of the most important dairy regions of New York, Pennsylvania and other States have suffered severely from this malady, all the cows some- times aborting, one after another, without discoverable cause or cure. Nevertheless it is a complaint which, by judicious precautions and early and active treatment, can be prevented and- checked. Causes, — In studying the causes of the disease the stock owner should first examine into the food of the animals. It has been abundantly shown that wet, frosted and mouldy fodder, smutty or mouldy grain, ergoted corn or rye, and, on the other hand, too rich food, will strongly predispose to slinking. Heating condition powders, violent purges, blows on the belly, over teazing by the bull, are other and common causes. Next to these comes the presence of a foul atmosphere in the cow-house, yard or field. Decaying animal matters, aa 316 Diseases of CaMle. the refuse from a slaughter house, glue factory or hatters' es- tablishment, should be most carefully guarded against. The third and most important of all causes, as it is the true secret of the epidemic prevalence of abortion in a dairy, is the odor of the lochia or uterine discharo-es of the cow in abortion. This odor is easily detected the moment one en- ters the cow yard, and it is jieculiarily offensive to other cows. They cease feeding, sniff the air, become excited and bellow. Some sympathetic influence is produced on their uterine or- gans, and in a few days one or more of them abort, and thus the disease is propagated through the herd until sometimes every cow in calf has dropped her fetus. SymptomSi — An aborting cow is a constant source of dan- ger to a dairy, and whenever such a one is found in the herd, she should be taken off her milk, fattened and killed. But, as in buying new cows, the purchaser may obtain one, it is of great importance that he should closely watch cows in preg- nancy, and, at the first signs of abortion, separate the cow from the rest of the herd. These signs are as follows : The animal is noticed to be off her feed, to " lose her cud," is listless and dull, the milk dries up, she lies down longer than usual, stands for a longer time on rising, and walks with a slight staggering gait. Or in other cases, she is uneasy, paws the ground, refuses food and rests her head on the manger. If at this time the belly is carefully examined, it will be found slightly altered in shape, less round and somewhat en- larged. And if the vagina should be inspected, there ^vi]l be observed a slight discharge of whitish, glairy fluid ; or, if further advanced, the fluid will be of a yellow or reddish hue. These are the signs which should admonish the owner to isolate the cow at a long distance from her companions. O H CD d m ■J} m Abortion or Slinking. 317 Later on, the animal begins to moan, the pangs of labor come on with more or less violence, and the fruit of the womb is expelled, sometimes living, but generally dead, and often putrid and escaping by piecemeal. Treatment. — This is largely indicated by what we have said above, so far as the prevention of the epidemic is con- cerned. But there is one precaution which cannot be too strongly urged. That is, as soon as the abortion has once commenced, proceed to deliver the fetus at once, and bury it deep in the ground, sprinkling it freely ^\'ith carbolic acid or chloride of lime. We need here not merely a disinfectant, but one with a powerful smell of its own to overcome the odor of the lochia. The cow should then receive attention. The afterbirth having also been removed and buried, the vagina should be syringed with a solution of chloride of lime, one ounce to the quart of water ; the stall should be cleaned, washed with the solution, and freshly littered ; and for a month at least, the cow should not be allowed to associate with others. The whole herd should at once be put upon doses of chlorate of potash, I oz. daily, which it is believed has been proven to exert a beneficial influence. After recover}^, the cow should not be allowed to take the bull until the third or fourth time she is in heat, as if she conceives in her first or second heat, it is quite certain that she will abort again. If on her next pregnancy she again aborts, there should be no hesitation in at once fattening and selling her, as she is a standing menace to the welfare of the whole dairy. Recent discussions in the Agricultural Societies of New York, Ohio, and other large dairy districts, have led to the recognition of two important and avoidable causes of abor- tion. One of these is a deficiency of mineral matter in the 318 Diseases of Cattle. food. This can be remedied by giving each cow during her pregnancy one quart of corn meal, with a teaspoonful of fresh, finely ground bone every morning. It is no unusual sight to see cows knawing at old bones to satisfy this natural want of the system. The second precaution is to have a bull who is not ex- hausted. He should have served no cow for a week, and should be put to the female in the evening, and but once. The cow should be stabled by herself for the night, and kept away from the bull, or teasing steers, during the whole of her pregnancy. She should be dried at least six weeks before her calving date It should be added that the latest discussions of the sub- ject endorse the opinion of Mr. Youatt, that the odor of the vaginal discharges accompanying abortion are highly irri- tating to the uterine system of other pregnant cows. CALVDTG OR PARTURITIOIT. In most of the lower animals the process of child-birth is one consummated with little pain, and few complications. In the cow, however, more frequently than in any other animal, the assistance of man is called for ; and this appears to be especially the case in high bred and delicately nurtured ani- mals. It should be a rule, however, to avoid giving assistance until is is really necessary. Frequently by waiting patiently, nature will succeed in overcoming obstacles to the exit of the calf, which we might only injure by premature attempts at interference. So long as the bag of waters has not burst, there is no occasion for action, providing the passage of the vagina is clear, and the womb is in a healthy condition. The latter is subject to two irregularities, both involving what is called the nech of the womb, which is that portion immedi- ately above its mouthy or external opening, into the vagina. Calving. 319 1. Rigid Neck of the Womb. This is the condition called in old farriery books by the curious term "the horning of the lye," because the lye, calf- bed or womb is found to present a stiff, horn-like end in the vagina. It may be suspected to be present when the cow is at her full time, when she has labor-pains, and when there is a delay in the descent of the calf. On oiling the hand and introducing it into the vagina the neck of the womb will be felt as a hard body at its furthest extremity, the mouth being small and unyielding. Treatment. — If time does not press, and the cow is not excited, some extract of belladonna should be carried up the vagina and smeared around the neck. Sometimes this will cause it to relax in a few hours. But if the case is pressing, there is no use experimenting with this means. A narrow-bladed, blunted-pointed knife should be carried up the vagina in the hand, the mouth of the womb felt for and fixed with the fore finger, and then the blade of the knife slipped along the finger until it enters the neck of the womb to the depth of about a quarter of an inch. A slight cut should then be made on all four sides of the neck by turning the knife. A mere nick is enough, as the mouth once loosened in its contraction the neck will soon give way, and the bag of waters will accomplish the dilata- tion. 2. Bending of the Neck. This is a form of accident not occurring in child-birth, ex- cept in the cow. The neck of the womb is twisted so as to bring the mouth upward or to one side, and prevent the ex- pulsion efforts of the womb acting in the direction of the canal of the vagina. It may be suspected to exist when labor pains continue for some time without the appearance of the bag of waters. On feeling with the hand, no mouth of the womb will be discernable. 320 Diseases of Cattle. To relieve it, the cow should be cast with her head up hill; the surgeon should introduce his hand, and pressing on the fetus through the walls of the womb, push it firmly in the opposite direction from which the bending is ; while one or two men should roll the cow briskly over on the other side in the direction in which the twist has taken place. This may have to be repeated several times, but will generally suc- ceed in releasing the mouth from its unnatural position. TmTTATTIIlAL POSITIONS OF THE CALF. The natural position of the calf on its exit from the womb is with its head and fore feet first, the head between the feet and the back upwards. Six unnatural positions are enumer- ated by writers, which demand the assistance of the surgeon. "VVe give them in the order of their frequency, with the ap- propriate treatment they require. 1. Position with tail first. Press the haunches back with the palm of the hand, take hold of the bend of the hough of one leg, pull at it and reach the foot. Seize the other foot in the same manner, bring them forth and deliver the body. 2. Position withfm'e feet appearing without the head. Push the feet back until the head can be seized, either by the jaw or nose, and pull it down between the feet. No further aid will be required. This needs a long arm, and prompt action between the pSins. 3. Position loith belly upward, head over one shoulder, fore legs first. Gently push the calf back between the pains, and bring the head down between the legs. 4. Fore feet first, with head under the brisJcet. Push the calf back, find the head, and draw it down be- tween the fore feet. FALSE rOSlTlONS I\ CALVING. Management of Calving. 321 5. Head alone, or only one forefoot iciihit. Push the calf back and search for the fore feet or foot, under the belly ; when found, bring forward one at a tune, by placmg the hand under the knee and using gentle pressure. 6. Belly upwards, the fore legs folded and against the mother's back, the head, side or hind leg api^eanng. If the hind leg appear, put it back ; seek for the head, and if possible turn the calf, to bring the fore feet and head to the mouth. When tliis fails, throw the cow, put her on her back, and with a rope and j)ulley, or two or three stout assist- ants, raise her hind quarter considerably higher than her shoulders. In this position the calf may be easily pushed back in the uterus so that it can be turned and brought to the natural position. ]\Iany surgeons make it a rule to fasten the part present- ing with a cord and slip knot before going in search of the part they desire to bring to the mouth. The cord is held by an assistant, and serves as a guide. The principal obstetric instrument in the cow is the hook. This is made of wrought iron, four inches long, with a loop for the cord at the straight end. When by no other means the calf can be delivered, or when removing a dead fcotus, this hook is fastened in the socket of an eye, under the jaw or in an ear, and by gentle and steady traction the resistance is overcome. Finally, the foetus may have to be taken out piecemeal, an operation which requires considerable skill on the part of the. operator, to avoid wounding the womb and vagina, when he is dissecting the calf. In all such operations certain general rules should be ob- served, as follows : — 1. Thoroughly anoint the hand with lard or oil, before introducing it into the vagina. 21 322 Diseases of Cattle. 2. Make the examinations while the Cow is standing, and between the pains. 3. In pulling at the feet, enclose the claws in the hollow of the palm, so that they will not tear the delicate coats of the womb. FLOODIITG. Sometimes after a natural birth which has been rapid, and often after an abortion which has been brought on by vio- lence, there is a severe attack of "flooding," or bleeding from the womb. It may escape from the vagina, or it may be in- dicated by paleness of the mouth and nose, weak pulse, great M'eakness and coldness of the sm'face,and the womb be found to be filled with clotted blood. Treatment, — The hand shonld be introduced into the womb, the clots and any remaining portion of the afterbirth seized and extracted, and a sponge dipped in hot vinegar and water, or very hot or very cold water alone, be wrung out in the uterus. A full dose of fresh ergot of rye, one to two ounces, should be given without delay. If these measures fail, a piece of ice the size of a walnut should be carried into the womb and left there ; or a tea- spoonful of powdered alum should be stirred in a teacupful of milk, and a spongeful of this be squeezed out in the M'omb. Internally, Prof. Gamgee, recommends for either the mare or cow — Ko. 3G3. Compound tincture of cinnamon, 3 oz. Dilute sulphuric acid, 5 oz. Mix and give two tablespoonfuls for a dose every one or two hours, in a quart of water. Management of Calving. 323 RETAIlfED AFTERBIRTH. A variety of causes may lead to the retention of the after- birth. Sometimes it is firmly adherent to the walls of tlie womb • at others it is owing to hurried delivery, poverty of condition, etc. Should it be left, it is liable to putrefy, caus- ing a fetid discharge which exhausts and poisons the animal, and vitiates the air of the whole barn. A retention for a few days in the 30w does no harm under ordinary circumstances. But if it is protracted longer than that the hand should be introduced, and the afterbirth sepa- rated carefully from the walls of the uterus, by a process of peeling it off, and gradual but firm pulling. When it has been removed, a solution of chloride of lime, an ounce to the quart of water, should be thoroughly syringed into the vagina ; a moderate purge of salts should be given ; and if there is a tendency to bleed a full dose of ergot, two ounces of the powder may be administered. HTVERSIOIT OF THE WOMB. This serious accident occasionally occurs when there is excessive and persistent straining. The womb, or "calf- bag," as it is called by the cow-leech, follows the calf, and hangs forth from the birth-place in the form of a large red or violet-colored bag. Sometimes the accident is not dis- covered for an hour or two, when the womb will be found dirty, thick, purple-colored, and gorged with blood. The treatment is to clean the bag thoroughly, by free drenching with warm water ; and if it is swollen and gorged with blood, it must be punctured in a number of places with a sharp-pointed knife, just deep enough to bring about a dis- charge of the overloaded veins. When sufficient blood has been lost, the bleeding should be stayed by cold water, and two assistants should place a cloth underneath the bag and 324 Diseases of Cattle. lift it to the level of the vagina. The operator then oils the surface of the bag, and places his right hand, also well oiled, against the point or horn of the bag which is furthest from the vagina, and by pressing gently but steadily on it returns it into the vagina, and j)resses it up as far as possible. With his left hand he now presses on the most dependent part, in a similar manner, and forces it up. The assistants follow the re-entering bag and keep it from again extruding. And thus, often after considerable labor, the whole is returned. Such an accident is, however, very apt to recur ; and to prevent it the vagina should be filled with a ball of tow, and this retained in place by a band fastened to a collar around the cow's neck, and kept in place by straps, passing above and below, to a girth in front of the udder. If the replacing is interfered with by continued severe labor pains, the cow should at once have half an ounce of chloroform and two ouncis of laudanum, in a quart of milk. After the operation, the cow should be kept very quiet, and the bowels restrained by doses of laudanum for a day or two. After twenty-four hours, if the pains have ceased, the bandage may be removed. In preventing falling of the womb the great point is to keep the hind quarters Of the cow in a raised position during parturition and for some hours afterward ; in fact, until the afterbirth has come away. This may be done to some ex- tent by making a thicker bed of litter at the tail. In some high-class German cow houses, where the cow receives, and comes to require, about as much attention at these periods as the human female, the floor of the " lying-in stall " slopes toward the rack, so that the hind quarters are constantly ele- vated. Management of Calving. 325 MEDICAL TREATMENT OF CALVING. Generally speaking, as an aid to birth giving, medical treatment is not necessary ; the offspring coming natm-all j, at the full period, can genei*ally be got hold of by the hand, and brought away with gentle force, or by waiting, will emerge without assistance. Nevertheless, when the labor pains are languid, and occur at long intervals, and where the animal has been in labor for a considerable time, and it is found ou examination that there is no obstruction, a natural position, and a dilated mouth of the womb, full doses of ergot, one to two ounces, should be given. This drug does not act very ef&cieutly on cows, and has to be administered in large doses. Another instance where medicine is needed is where, both in mares and cows, there is considerable irritability and straining after the birth has come away. Unless it subsides promptly the animal should have the following draught : — No. 364. Chloroform, Laudanum, each ^ oz. Give in a quart of warm milk, and repeat every hour until relief is obtained. Sometimes this irritability shows itself in repeated spasms or convulsions. The above mixture is then very applica- ble ; but if there is a dry muzzle and a hot horn, showing a tendency to a feverish condition, the following is preferable : No. 365. Sweet spirits of nitre, Laudanum, of each 2 oz. Solution of acetate of ammonia, 4 oz. Give in a quart of milk every hour, till relieved. Some cows, especially those in low condition, for a week (■r two before calving lose the power of their hind limbs, sad are unable to stand. Little can be done before they give birth, besides allowing them laxative and nutritious food and tunic medicine, while seeing that they are well bedded and 326 Diseases of Cattle. turned over several times a day. After calving, most cases gradually regain the use of their limbs ; but when this is not the case, or they gain too slowly, the following may be used with every prospect of prompt advantage : — li\o. 366. Powdered nux vomica, Sulphate of iron, each 2 drachms. Give in a pint or two of gruel, twice a day. Mustard should be well rubbed in over the loins, and the animal forced to rise on her feet as soon as she is able — which she is often by no means willing to do. The older veterinarians were accustomed to give to all cows, after calving, what they called a " cleansing drink," on the ground that it ^^revented milk fever and other illnesses. The modern school does not approve of these, believing that they are generally needless and sometimes hurtful, by bring- ing on irritation of the bowels, or by weakening the animal. We give two of the least objectionable of these drinks, which, being warm and stimulating, are not out of place in con- ditions of unusual debility : — Kg. 367. Powdered aniseed, " myrrh, " allspice, " cummin seed, each, 1 oz. To be stirred in a quart of warm gruel, for a drench. K'o. 368. Soap, Spermaceti, Powdered ginger, of each, ^ oz. Aniseed, in powder, Carraway seed, " of each, 1 oz. Molasses, 4 oz. Give in a quart of warm gruel. It is sufficient, however, to prevent constipation, if present, and to cleanse the vagina by an antiseptic wash if the dis- charge is foul. For the first we recommend : — No. 369. Sulphate of magnesia, i lb. Ground aniseed, 1 oz. Olive oil, 6 oz. Give in a pint of gruel, and repeat daily, if needed. Management of Calving, 327 For syringing the vagina, stir a pound of chloride of lime in two gallons of water, and when it has settled pour off the clear fluid, for use. Or, pour a gallon of boiling water on a pint of clean wood tar, stir and let it settle. Either of these will prove a cheap and excellent cleansing wash. A pint or two should be thrown up twice a daj. Instead of constipation, some cows after calving are troubled with a relaxed condition of the bowels, with con- stant diarrhea, which prevents them from promptly regaining strength. For this condition Mr. Finley Dun recommends one of the following astringent, anodyne drenches, as among the best that could be selected : — No. 370. Powdered catechu, 2 drachms. '■ ginger, 1 oz. Sulphuric acid, 30 drops. Laudaaum, 1 oz. Give in a quart of gruel, ale, or weak whisky and water. No. 371. Powdered ginger, Bicarbonate of soda. Laudanum, Decoction of oak bark^ of each, 1 oz. Give several times a day, in gruel or ale. Half this dose suffices for six months' calves, in similar conditions of the bowels. MANAGEMENT OF THE MILK. The management of the secretion of the milk divides it- self into the three subjects : — the means of drying it up when the cow is about to calve, or is to be fattened ; the means of increasing the supply when it is deficient ; and its improvement when in an unhealthy condition. 1. To dry the milh. The average j^eriod before calving at which a cow should be allowed to go dry is about six weeks. Poor and weak 328 Diseases of Cattle. cows should have two months, while one month is enough for vigorous ones. Usually" by lessening the milk taken day by day, so as al- ways to leave some in the udder, a cow will dry wdthout painful swelling of the gland. When this is too long de- layed, the customary "drying drench" is to boil half an ounce of powdered alum in a pint of milk, and give it every morning. Rubbing the udder with ointment of belladonna is also an efficient and safe means. 2. To bring on or increase the milk. It occasionally happens that the secretion of milk, espe- cially in heifers, is too slight in quantity for the calf, or is backward in making its appearance at the proper time. Nourishing and abundant food, with a change of diet, will generally remedy this, along with gentle frictions of the ud- der and teat, so as to excite the glands to greater activity. When the secretion is checked, a large poultice of the leaves of the castor oil plant, chopped fine and applied every morning, has considerable local celebrity. A prescription, in such cases, recommended by Prof. Gamgee, is — No. 372. Black sulphuret of antimony, 2 oz. Powdered fennel seed, Common salt, of each 4 oz. One quarter of this to be mixed with the food every day. 3. To correct bloody and blue milJc. Bloody milk comes from blows on the udder, certain poisonous plants, from the sexual heat, and garget. When it appears, it is a safe rule to give the cow a dose of salts, and to foment the udder in hot w^ater with a little vinegar added. The milking should be gentle and thorough, and the diet altered so as to avoid any unknown irritating substance she may have been eating. Blue or sticky milk is due to the presence of a low form of vegetation in the secretion, easily seen under a microscope Milk Fever in Cows. 329 of moderate power. It is supposed to be introduced through impure drinking water, diseased grasses, or by breathing an air tainted with decomposing animal matter. In addition to boiling the drinking water, and changing the food or pastur- age, the animal should take — No. 373. Bisulphite of soda, Sulphur, each 2 drachms. Give in milk or mixed with meal, once a day, for a week. miK FEVER — PUEEPERAL FEVER -PARTURIENT FEVER — PAR- TURIENT APOPLEXY— METRITIS— INFLATVnffATION OF THE WOMB. Definition. — An inflammation of the lining membrane, substance of, and tissues adjacent to, the womb, occurring after calving, and often accompanied by sudden and marked affections of the brain, congestion of the spinal cord and apoplexy; and ofte» followed by general blood poisoning and death. Causes. — These may be injury to the womb in calving, re- tained afterbirth, exposure to colds and chills ; or it may be at times of an epidemic character. A cow who has had it once is pretty certain to have it with her next calf. There has been considerable discussion as to whether the disease called "parturient apoplexy" and "milk fever" is identical with that known as inflammation of the womb or metritis. Several very eminent authorities do not think so ; and they explain the congested and inflamed state of the womb, which is found on examination after death by refer- ence to the nearness of the time of its outbreak to calving. But after a careful study of the evidence and the records of cases and post-mortems, the present writer inclines strongly to the opinion that the difference is only in respect to the violence of the disease ; a difference very noticeable also in the human species in the different forms of puerperal metritis. 330 Diseases of Cattle. Symptoms. — The symptoms first appear within from t-wen> ty-four hom\s to three days after calving. One of tlie earliest warnings is the suspension of the secretion of milk. This is the more observable as the disease is peculiarly liable to attack "deep milkers," large uddered and well nourished cows. Frequently the other symptoms appear with promptness and severity, and run rapidly to a fatal termination. The cow hangs her head, ceases to feed, loses her cud, and moves restlessly her hind feet. By and by the breathing becomes hard and rapid, the eyes are bloodshot and Avild, the eyelids twitch, and tears run over the face. She falls on her litter in a stupor, or sways her head violently from side to side. The head, horns, and forehead are intensely hot to the touch. The power of sight and of swallowing is lost early in the disease, and there is often partial or complete paralysis of the hind quarters. The pulse, at first full, becomes small, quick and scarcely perceptible. There may be delirium and death in convulsions ; or the animal may quietly gasp to death in a state of stupor. The bowels may be somewhat relaxed in the early stages, but as a rule constipation is a marked sign. It is due to" paralysis of the bowels. The urine is generally pale in color, scanty in quantity, and may be retained in the bladder, from paralysis of that organ. If in the course of thirty or forty hours the animal comes to herself and tries to rise, if the bowels begin to act and the secretion of milk to return, there is a fair probability that the case will recover : althouo-h sometimes these favorable symptoms are deceptive, indicating only a remission of the disease, which returns with renewed violence. For this reason it is well not to be too confident in one's predictions about results. Milk Fever in Cows. 331 Treatment. — If the symptoms do not indicate very decided exhaustion, and the case is seen early, from three to five quarts of blood should be taken from a free opening in the jugular vein. If as the blood flows, the pulse is felt to grow fuller and stronger, aud there are signs of relief to the head, it is certain that the loss of the blood is a benefit. Where, however, the pulse is weak and thready, and the exhaustion is already great, bleeding is not called for. On the contrary, a stimulant is what is required. This may be whisky, or — No. 374. Carbonate of ammonia, 1 oz. Water, 1 pint Mix for a drench. As there is so often paralysis of the muscles of the gullet, so that the animal cannot swallow, it is by no means easy to give a drench. Sometimes a ball does better, as it can be well oiled aud pushed far back in the gullet, and will dis- solve and descend by its own weight. In all cases, if an active purge can be administered, it will be an advantage, as — No. 375. Sulphate of magnesia, i to 1 lb. Croton oil, 20 to 30 drops. Give in a quart of water. If the difficulty of giving by the mouth is very great, in- jections of soap and warm water should be repeatedly thrown into the rectum. The swelling of the bowels, which is apt to be very pain- ful, can be lessened by carbonate of ammonia given as a ball ; or that failing, the rumen should be j^unctured by a trocar, and the gas allowed to escape. When the horns and head are hot, or when the stupor is marked, pouring cold water on the head from a height of five or six feet, and continuing several minutes (ten or fif- 332 Diseases of Cattle. teen) will often prove a very efficient means of restoring consciousness. The paralysis is liable to remain after the other symptoms have disappeared, and indeed the cow may fancy she cannot rise when she is perfectly able to do so. The application of the firing iron to the loins M-ill be sure to start her in mo- tion, if she is able, and to benefit her by counter irritation if she is not. In cases of inflammation of the womb and surroundings, where the attack comes on three or four days after calving, the following is an excellent laxative, alterative and sedative combined : — No. 376. Calomel, h drachm. Laudanum, 2 oz. Castor oil, 1 pound. Mix with hot water and molasses, and give four doses, at intervals of two or three hours. In the apoplectic form of the disease, when there is in- tense nervous excitement and violent cramp of the muscles of the hind quarters, chloral has been found to be of great benefit : — No. 377. Hydrate of chloral, Powdered sugar, each 2 oz. Mix in a quart of warm water, and repeat in two hours unless quiet is produced. Another useful formula in this phase of the disease, when the period of excitement is followed by exhaustion and etupor, is given by Mr. Finlay Dun : — No. 387. Spirits of turpentine, 1 to 2 oz. Carbonate of ammonia, ^ oz. Give in a quart of cold gruel. Garget in Cows. 333 GAKGET-MAMMITIS— CAZED BAG. Definition. — An inflammation of the udder or mammary gland in the cow. Causes. — Cows in a plethoric condition at the time of calv- ing, or if at that or other time they be turned into a rich pasturage, are liable to swelling and inflammation of the ud- der. Allowing them to go unmilked for long periods also produces it. Sometimes this occurs through inattention ; sometimes for the barbarous purpose of making them appear remarkably well uddered when put on sale. Symptoms, — The inflammation seldom attacks the whole of the udder, but is confined to one or two quarters, and is indicated by swelling, heat, pain and redness of the part in- flamed, and by the alteration in the milk, which is curdled, whey-like, and mixed with blood. There is generally con- siderable constitutional disturbance, such as restlessness, im- paired appetite, shiverings, succeeded by heat of skin and disordered bowels, either constipated or unnaturally loose. The inflamed parts generally pass into suppuration, which results in breaking down their structure, wasting and trans- formation into a hard, cartilaginous substance. The capacity for giving milk is thus impaired, and the market value of the c6w diminished. Treatment, — The general treatment is to give a moderate purge, say half a pound of salts, and follow this up with two ounces of saltpetre in the water, morning and night. No great amount of water, hoAvever, should be given, and dry food, and such as does not produce milk, should be the only kind allowed. This is essential to success, as it gives rest to the inflamed structure. The milk must be frequently drawn with the hand or with the syphon. The whole o fthe udder should be rubbed with : 334 Diseases of Cattle. No. 379. Powdered camphor, J oji. Extract of belladonna, Lard, each, 2 oz. Mix well together and apply with gentle friction. Should tlie swelling be great, and the weight of the udder painful, it must be suj^ported by a broad bandage, made with holes for the teats to pass through, and then securely fastened over the back of the animal. When the case requires it, a large mush and hop poultice can be placed within the band- age, over the udder. If the inflammation cannot be reduced, but passes on to suppuration, and abscesses form, they must be freely opened, the pus allowed to escape, and the cavities syringed with carbolic acid water, after which they can advaiitageously be dressed with stimulant and. antiseptic ointments, as — No. 330. Sulphate of copper, powdered, 1 drachm. Lard, 1 oz. Or: No. 381. Chloride of lime, 1 to 2 drachms. Lard, 1 oz. For the hard swellings which remain when suppuration does not occur, repeated gentle frictions with the following are useful : — No. 382. Iodide of sulphur, 1 drachm. Glycerine, 6 oz. Or with the following, which has recently been very highly praised as efficient in dispersing all sorts of hardened and painful swellings in glands and joints : — No. 383. Oleate of mercury, 1 oz. Sulphate of morphia, 8 grs. Mix well, and rub on with the finger, or apply with a brush, every one or two days. This is not liable to cause salivation if used with ordinary care. The common poke (Phytolacca) has a local reputation in Garget in Cows. 335 various parts of the United States, as efficient in acute garget. Indeed, it is sometimes called the "garget weed." It is given by mixing a handful of the dried leaves with the food, and rubbing the udder with an ointment prepared by simmering a few ounces of the bruised root with a pound of lard, and straining. For hard and slow indurations or "knots," that remain after the aifection, Prof. Gamgee uses — No. 384. Iodide of mercury, J drachm. Glycerine, Alcohol, of each, 4 oz, Eub gently and thoroughly with this, every two days. This, or any other form of iodine ointment will answer ; but after severe attacks the udder is often permanently in- jured, and the cow's capacity for giving milk incurably di- minished. After slight attacks of garget the teats are often obstructed and narrowed. They may be enlarged by inserting a well oi^ed quill with a circular leather collar about an inch in di- ameter. This can be kept in place readily by a piece of sticking plaster, and removed when milking ; if worn for a week or two it will relieve the contraction. In all cases it is of the greatest consequence to keep the udder empty by repeated milkings. As the teats are tender and swollen this must be done gently. The calf will often succeed better than the attendant. In England a "teat syphon" is manufactured for drawing the milk by exhaustion of air in a receiver. If the milk is "caked" in the udder* injections of a saturated solution of bicarbonate of potash in warm water, with a small syringe with a long nozzle, is recommended by English authorities. 336 Diseases of Cattle. CHAPTER IV. DISEASES OF CALVES. First Attentions. Diarrhea or Scouring. Epidemic Colic — The Shoote or Sheivte of Blood, Croup. The Husk or Hoose — Parotitic Bronchitis. FIEST ATTENTIONS. Immediately after she has dropped her calf, the cow should occupy herself in licking and cleaning it. If she neglects this maternal duty, the calf should be sj^rinkled with a little salt, which will induce her to perform it. The calf should remain with its mother for a few days at least, in order to derive the benefit of the first milk, which is laxative in quality and gives the little animal the purge which it needs in order to clear its bowels of the black and glutinous feces which have accumulated there. Occasionally the mother in severing the naval string with her teeth leaves it so that it bleeds. It should then be tied with a strong thread ; and if the navel looks inflamed, it is w^ell to smear it with petroleum ointment, or oxide of zinc ointment, or other soothing application. If there is a tumor which threatens to break, it should be lanced, and dressed as heretofore directed for abscesses, (page 227). DIAEBHEA OE SCOUEING. This common affection in calves is, through neglect and mismanagement, a cause of hea\y mortality among them. It arises, as a rule, either from too rich or too poor food, and the dam should be looked to in this respect, as well as the ■V O ^J H m D X o r- (/) H m z o w o e i^ 0 > » w < X o c n 0 m M H Diarrhea in Calves. 337 calf. Heating the cow by driving or worrying her is another common cause of deterioration of her milk, and renders it injurious to the delicate bowels of the young calf. It is often best to begin the treatment with two or three ounces of castor oil, in which a teaspoonful of powdered gin- ger is stirred, as the gentle action of this laxative will clear the bowels of irritating substances. When this is done, the following will be found an admirable combination : — No. 385. Lime -water, Infusion of gentian, of each 2 oz. ' Give this amount two or three times daily, to a feeble calf. The infusion of gentian is made by boiling one ounce of bruised gentian root in a quart of water for ten minutes, cooling and straining. Or the following will answer without the oil :- — No. 386. Calcined magnesia, 4 drachms. Powdered opium, 20 grains. Powdered rhubarb, 2 drachms. Give in milk or linseed gruel. Either of these is better than the giving of astringents, as some negligent practitioners do. These should be reserved for cases where the above remedies, together with attention to the mother and a change of diet, does not succeed. It will then be proper to give the following : — . No. 387. Prepared chalk, 2 oz. Powdered catechu, 1 oz. Powdered opium, 2 drachms. Powdered ginger, 2 oz. Mix in a pint of sweet flag tea or peppermint water, and give a tea* cupful once or twice a day. Strong teas of oak bark or willow bark, with the addition of ginger, or sweet flag (calamus), are popular and useful re" medies in such cases. 22 338 Diseases of Cattle. EPIDE]iaC COLIC— THE SHOOTE. This is a form of colic very fatal among calves iu some localities, usually attacking them a few days after birth. It is believed at times to be epidemic, as it is found to attack rapidly a number of calves in a herd. Its cause has not been ascertained. Symptoms. — The calf refuses its food, is listless and weak. Soon it is attacked by severe gripings, of an intermittent character. These are followed after a time by a violent dis- charge from the bowels. These attacks of colic and excessive watery evacuations continue to recur until the animal dies of exhaustion ; or else, after the first few discharges, the pain abates and the symptoms disappear. Treatment. — The usual treatment with breeders is to ad- minister, as early in the disease as practicable, a mixture of eggs, wheat flour and linseed oil ; or of milk mulled with eggs and whiskey. Should this fail, a dose of a drachm of essence of ginger, with two drachms of laudanum, in gruel, should be repeated until the colicky symptoms are overcome by the narcotic. CROTTP. Definition. — An inflammation of the upper throat and windpipe, characterized by a whitish deposit or exudation upon it, called a false membrane. Causes. — The occurrence of croup in calves is not frequent, and is confined to low lying districts on the banks of rivers, where they are exposed to damp chills and heavy dews. It is a disease of early life, appearing in calves from a few weeks to three months old, and rarely occurs except in the fall of the year. The Croup in Calves. 339 Symptoms. — There are a hoarse cough, discharge of sj)Ittle from the mouth, and running from the nose. The animal does not thrive, swallows with an effort, and in drawing in its breath a whistling or crowing noise is heard. As the disease progresses the breathing becomes more labored, the cough is more violent and in paroxysms, and shreds of false membrane are coughed up. Treatment. — A moderate purge at the outset will be found of use, and small doses of saltpetre in the drinking water, to allay the feverish symptoms. To relieve the throat of the false membrane, it will be of benefit for the calf to in- hale the vapor from slacking lime (taking care that it is not too concentrated). THE HTJSK OR HOOSE— PAHASITIC BRONCHITIS. Definition. — A disease caused by the irritation in the wind- pipe, bronchial tubes and lungs, of a parasitic worm called the Strongylns. The disease is very fatal to sheep in many parts of this country, and will also be considered under their dis- eases. Cause. — These worms generally attack calves under one year old, and especially such as are pastured in low-lying lands, near rivers, and subject to flood. They are mostly seen in the months of August and September. Sometimes they are very numerous, and are found after death congre- gated together in a ball in the windpipe, thus choking the animal to death. Symptoms. — The complaint is marked by a hoarse, bron- chial cough, called the " husk " or " hoose,'' loss of flesh, dif- ficulty of breathing, and suffocation to a greater or less de- gree. Sometimes in the mucus coughed up the jiarasite may be detected. It is white in color, the body an inch or two long, and slender as a thread. Whenever in the autumn 340 Diseases of Cattle. months calves are noticed to cough and gasp, they should be carefully examined for the signs of this worm. Treatment. — Affected calves' should be separated from the rest of the flock, so that none of the eggs of the worm con- vey the disease to the remainder. They should be placed in a dry stable, protected from dampness, and caused to inhale two or three times a day the fumes of burning sulphur. If this is doue for fifteen or twenty minutes at a time, and con- tinued for two or three days, the worms will generally be destroyed. The vapor of chloride of lime is also said to be destruct- ive to them. Or, instead of inhalations, a small dose of turpentine, about half an ounce, may be given in gruel daily, for a few days. Or a teaspoonful mixed with double the quantity of sweet oil may be poured into the nostrils. This is, however, liable to choke the patient if carelessly done. Two or three doses, at intervals of two or three days, will effect a cure. Or the turpentine may be given in the following tonic combina- tion : — No. 388. Oil of turpentine, J oz. Carbonate of iron, 2 drachms. Gum mixture, 4 oz. A tablespoonful to be given night and morning. Or— No. 389. Linseed oil, 4 oz. Oil of turpentine, 1 oz. Oil of carraway seed, 20 drops. Give half this dose morning and night, to a calf six months old, and repeat it in ten days. Half a pint of lime water every morning will destroy the worms also ; but a teaspoonful or two of tm-peutine with it adds to its efficiency. < LLl DC U < q: QC UJ UJ QC O a. General Memarhs. 341 CHAPTER Y. DISEASES OF SHEEP. General Remarhs on Diseases of Sheep, and their Treatment. Braxy — Striking of the Blood — Charbon in Sheep. Sheep Smallpox — Variola Ovinu. Loupjing III — Thorter 111 — The Gnaw Disease, Malignant Epizootic Catarrh — The Sheep Distemper. Colic — Blown — Blast — Wind Dropsy. Red Water — Hoematuria. ■> Hoof Rot— Foot Rot. Foul in the Foot. Stone in the Bladder. Lambing in the Ewe; Heaving Pains; Milk Fever ; Garget, Rheumatism of Lambs. Constipation in Lambs. Diarrhea in Lambs. Turnsick — Sturdy — Gid — Hydatid of the Brain, Sheep Bots — Grubs in the Head — Head Maggots. Lung Worms — The Hoose in Lambs — White Skin — Paper Skin — Pelt Rot — The Pale Disease, The Rot— The Liver Fluke. Intestinal Worms. The Scab — The Mange or Itch in Sheep, GENEBAL BEMAHES ON DISEASES OF SHEEF, AND THEIB TBEAT- MENT. The two most prominent classes of the diseases of sheep are : 1. Those arising from exhaustion, debility, and a low state of the system ; and 2d, Those arising from the presence of parasitic animals. It has long been noticed that even in England and Scot- land, inflammatory affections are rare in these animals, their 342 Diseases of Sheep. weak structure not resisting a violent attack but sinking be- neath it. Hence their maladies are what physicians call of "a low type/' and hence, also, bleeding, purgatives and de- pressing medicines, as aconite and tartar emetic, are very rarely indeed required in their medication. According to eminent sheep breeders in this country, these characteristics are yet more marked in our breeds. " The American sheep," says Col. Randall, " which has been kept in the common way, sinks from the outset or after a mere transient flash of inflammatory action; and in any stage of its maladies active depletion is likely to lead to fatal prostration." Parasites are very common both on and in the sheep. Its thick wool and comparatively thin skin offer a most favor- able lodging place and feeding ground for the class of vermin which dwell on the surface of the body. While of its internal organs, not only the stomach and bowels, but the liver, brain and nostrils are the chosen habitat of various lower forms of animal life. The American sheep has up to the present been wholly or almost Avholly exempt from a number of epidemic diseases and local affections which have decimated the English and conti- nental flocks over and over again. The sheep-pox, so far as we are aware, has never appeared anywhere in the United States; malignant braxy or charbon, while of occasional occurence, has rarely developed into an epidemic, and then but locally ; red water seems unknown ; hydatid in the brain, or turnsick, although reported from New York and other States, is a curi- osity rather than a scourge ; and the true rot, caused by the liver fluke, has never assumed the proportions of a destruc- tive malady, although the parasite tliat causes it is known in this country, especially on the Pacific coast. Indeed, the mortality of sheep is remarkably low in most sections of the States which are occupied with wool grow- ing. It has been estimated as low as two per cent, per The Braxy. 343 annum of the adult animal ; but this is undoubtedly a much too favorable statement; eight or ten per cent., at least, of the total number of lambs born perish by disease. Nevertheless, in the active interchange of stock between different parts of this country, and between this country and Europe, we are liable any season to have brought to us these much feared diseases in a malignant form ; therefore we have taken brief descriptions of them from the most eminent foreign writers, with the treatment they recommend. BEAXY— STRIKING OF BLOOD— CHAEBON IS SHEEP. Definition. — A disease of the blood, identical with charbon, or malignant anthrax, in cattle (see page 276) ; occasionally epidemic, at other times confined to definite localities and herds. It is also known by the names of "St. Anthony's fire," " carbuncular erysipelas," " the blood disease," etc. Causes. — A very careful study of the causes of braxy in Scotland and the sheep growing districts has led to connect its appearance with over-feeding on too rich or unhealthy food, and exposure to sudden changes of weather. Thus it is most common at those seasons when the pasture is most rank, and among herds on loose, damp bottom lands, occasionally overflowed, and sending up a succulent, sapjjy growth of grass ; also where the vegetation is subject to mil- dew or blight ; where overfeeding on grain and clover hay, with deficient exercise, has been carried on for some time ; where with full feeding the cotes and stables have been kept quite warm ; and finally, on exposed sheep walks, where the animal is exposed with little protection to sudden changes of temperature. The last mentioned is so well known that in bleak walks in the Scotch Highlands, after an unexpected snow blast in the autumn, the shepherd looks to have some of his flock struck by the braxy, as a quite regular event. 344 Diseases of Sheep. In the study of its prevention, therefore, owners should choose pasturages with good drainage, and of moderate gro^\i;h, and avoid, in their desire to fatten and strengthen, a stimulating diet, which may result in developing germs of poison in the blood. S3|l]iptoniS. — The sheep is affected by charbonous fever in two forms, which by the uneducated are supposed to be dis- tinct diseases ; in fact, they have been so spoken of in quite recent works on diseases of these animals. The first and most rapidly fatal form is Splenic Apoplexy. — The attack is very sudden, the animal ceasing to eat; the body suddenly shivering, as if struck with a chill ; there is staggering or reeling, and an effort to stand by putting the feet W' ell asunder, w^hich may fail, and the body falls. The breath is rapid, the eyes are red, the teeth grate together, and loss of sensibility is common. The lin- ing membrane of the mouth is injected with blood of a dull red color ; the dung is passed without effort, and the urine is colored with blood. A bloody froth issues from the mouth and nose ; the animal is seized wdth convulsions, in which he throws his legs about and bends his head and neck back- ward ; there is a rattling in his throat, and he expires. Such a rapid, apoplectic form of the disease is more com- mon in young sheep and those very richly fed. The other and slower variety is that seen in older animals, and those of a less plethoric condition. This is more properly a Charbonous Fever. — The first symptom in this form is that the animal walks with a shorter step than usual, caused by pain in the bowels; soon he begins to lie down and rise uj) frequently, or stands apart with head hanging and back arched. The eyes are dull, or bloodshot, the belly swollen, and the ears droop. ( )ften upon several places on the skin, especially of those parts which are but lightly covered with Treatment of Braxy. S45 wool, angry-looking red or purple spots appear, like blotches, not disappearing on pressure, and rapidly increasing in size and number. These swell, and upon their surface blisters, filled with a watery or bloody fluid, appear. A penetrating and offensive odor exhales from the animal, bloody serum appears at his mouth, nose, eyes and anus; and ere long he is seized with convulsions, or passes into a state of stupor and perishes. It is seldom that the disease lasts three days, often but ten or twelve hours. After death the blood remains quite fluid, the body de- composes rapidly, and the odor is distinct from that of or- dinary decomposition. The flesh and inner surface of the skin is bluish red, and stained with patches of dark, bloody accumulations. The disease, both before and after death, is so strongly marked that it is easy to recognize it, especially as it is the :"ule that several, or a large percentage of a herd, are attacked with it when it appears at all. Treatment. — This is essentially the same as that recom- mended in the charbon of cattle (page 278). The chlorate of potash is one of tiie most reliable of antidotes to the poi- son, when it can be given with promptness. Some believe that a brisk purge given at the outset will relieve the condition of the blood, as — No. 390. Sulphate of magnesia. Warm water, 2oz. Ipt. For a drench. Or, No. 391. ' Castor oil, 8oz. Calomtl, Molasses, 12 grains, 3oz. Mix for a dose. As a preventive, a seton, no doubt, is advantageous in plethoric sheej), as a derivative. Mr. H. Clok recommends 346 Diseases of Sheep. the following as a very efficient "lick," to prevent the disease from spreading through a herd : — No. 392. Nitrate of potash, Sulphate of magnesia, Ground calamus, Laurel leaves, Juniper berries, of each, 2 lbs. Golden sulphuret of antimony, 1 lb. Mix well with the food, clover preferred, and give one-quarter night and morning, for two days. This amount is enough for one hiuidred sheep. The same author urges that great care be observed in regard to feeding, so that the change from stable-feeding to pasture-feeding is only to be allowed by degrees. In the morning the sheep must not be driven to pasture until the dew and moisture have entirely disappeared from the meadow, which depends upon the temperature and weather. At noon a shady and cool resting-place must be provided. Another preservative, as well as preventive, consists in the application of cold shower-baths, which may be applied to the herd by means of a squirting engine, the nozzle of which is provided with a sieve, or by means of a garden- spout ; the cold water to be applied at different times of the day, and until the animals are perfectly cooled. The herd may also be driven into cold or refreshing streams ; in case of rain the herd must be allowed to remain exposed to it at their pleasure. There appears to be a hereditary disposition to this dis- ease ; it may therefore be presumed that in case of an ex- traordinarily frequent occurrence among certain herds, the sale of such sheep and the purchase of other stock will prove the most profitable. Smallpox in Sheep. 347 SHEEP SMALLPOX— VARIOLA OVINA. Definition. — A contagious eruptive fever depending upon a specific poison, corresponding in character to that which produces smallpox in the human race. Causes, — The ravages which smallpox in the sheep has caused fully equal those which the analogous disease inflicted on the human race in the last century. It docs not ap- pear to be mutually contagious, however. The sheep pox, though common on the continent of Europe for one hundred and fifty years previous to 1847, did not reach England until that year, and has, we believe, not yet made its appear- ance in this country, though in the importation of sheep, hides and wool, we are never secure from its introduction. The mortality in England has occasionally reached one- third of the flock in a single outbreak ; and in Austria and Hungary the losses are said to foot up from four to five hundred thousand sheep in some years. It is, therefore, a scourge much to be dreaded. Symptoms. — Sheep pox shows itself in two forms, one malignant, the other mild. The malignant form is not accompanied with an eruption of pustules on the skin. There are some scarlet or purple points, but they do not maturate or form pus. The animal ceases to eat, moves unwillingly, his head is swollen, the eyes closed and often inflame and ooze out ; the wool falls off, the skin cracks in a zig-zag manner, and the nostrils become filled with a fetid discharge. The animal suffers extremely from thirst, but cannot drink, or with difficulty, on account of the inflammation of the lips. Death generally occurs in from two to three weeks from the outset of the disease. In the milder form the eruption first shoAvs itself in a diffused redness, or in a number of minute red spots like flea bites, on that portion of the skin least covered with wool 348 Diseases of Sheep, These spots increase in size and run together, becoming ele- vated in the centre, where in a few days a small blister or vesicle appears, containing a liquid at first like a drop of water, later turbid and like pus. This is the smallpox vesicle, which in the sheep, however, remains flat on the surface, and does not become hollowed or " imibilicated," as it does in the cow and in man. In the fourth week of the disease these vesicles dry up, and form scales. When these fall off a bare spot is left which is never after filled with wool or hair. With these local symptoms there are others of constitu- tional disturbance. The animal wanders away from the flock, loses appetite, licks the earth, is thirsty and feeble. The eyes are bloodshot, the breathing labored and the gen- eral condition one of fever of more or less severity according to the violence of the attack. Treatment. — The treatment of the disease has been very unsuccessful, and consequently the more attention has been given to its prevention. This has been attempted in two directions by isolation, and by ovination, as the operation of vaccination is called when applied to sheep. Professor Gamgee relies entirely on isolation. He advises that the diseased be separated to a long distance from the healthy animals during the earliest stages of the malady; and that disinfectants be freely and liberally used, both on the sick and the well. He has no confidence in inoculation or ovination, believing that it rather disseminates than checks the malady. On the other hand, the French and German veterinarians are nearly unanimous in favor of ovination ; and if we can rely on the statistics they furnish, we cannot doubt but that it has succeeded most satisfactorily in staying the progress of the disease — quite as much so as in the human race. In many countries of Europe, especially in Austria, growing SmaUpox in Sheep. 349 lambs are regularly vaccinated in the spring, when from three to four months old, the general result being a very considerable diminution of deaths from the disease. The sheep lymph used for inoculation is obtained from separate (discrete) vesicles, on the sixth or seventh day of the eruption. It should be perfectly clear and fluid, like -svater. The animal from which it is taken should be otherwise healthy, free from rot and scab, and if possible one who has been vaccinated previously, or at all events has the dis- ease in a mild form. The lymph is to be preserved in the same manner as that used for vaccination in man. The most suitable place for inserting the lymph in the sheep is on the inner side of the ear, this spot being both convenient to the operator to reach and less liable than most to be injured by the scratching of the animal when the pus- tule begins to itch. There is no special manner of applying the lymph ; the general rules adopted for this simple opera- tion in children, answer as well for the sheep. It is needless to undertake vaccinating a flock unless the pox is actually in the neighborhood ; and then it should be done promptly, and repeated until every sheep has had the lymph " take " on him fairly. Even when the disease has already attacked an animal, vaccination should be performed, as it often renders the course of the malady much milder. lOTIPING ILL— THE GNAW DISEASE— THORTER ILL. DefinitioIL — The disease called by these uncouth names is £tQ affection of the spinal cord, common in lambs and young sheep, but rare after the third year. It is accompanied by organic changes in the cord, either of hardening or softening, or with watery secretion. It corresponds closely to that dis- ease in man known as "myelitis, with sclerosis or ramollise- ment of the cord," both in symptoms and appearance of the cx)rd after death. 350 Diseases of Sheep. Causes. — The disease is undoubtedly hereditary, and it is attributed to a naturally defective organization in some herds. Where it prevails, it is prudent, therefore, to change the breed. Symptoms. — One of the first symptoms is a slight weak- ness in the hind quarters, indicated by the animal taking broader and shorter steps, " louping," or loping in its run. It is, moreover, unable to jump, and if it attempts to do so will fall on its fore feet, or quite on the ground. If it un- dertakes to run, it will fall frequently and rise with diffi- culty, staggering and trembling. Many such patients, apparently sensible of some change in the sensation of the hind quarters, will gnaw or bite at their thighs, pulling the wool out, and sometimes biting to the blood and making a scab. This habit also gives one of the names to the disease by which it is known in some parts of the United States. As the disease advances the animal grows stupid, the ears loll loosely down, and the palsy, which was at first confined to the hind quarters, extends and becomes more decided. The appetite, which at fiist was not affected, is diminished, flesh is lost, and general debility and emaciation wear out the pa- tient. The duration of the disease is from two to three months ; as a rule it terminates in death ; but cases are not rare where the symptoms disappear after a few weeks, and the animal resumes its natural vigor. Treatment. — This should be directed to active stimula- tion of the spine and the nervous system. The wool should be clipped close along the backbone, over the loins, and the part rubbed ^vith a stimulating ointment or liniment, such as Nos. 235, 239. A moderate degree The Sheep Disfemper. 351 of irritation should be maintained constantly. Internally the animal should have — No. 393. Powdered nux vomica, 1 oz. Water, 1 pt. Eub up together, and give a spoonful daily. Exposure should be avoided, and the animal should not be urged to exercise, but allowed to rest. MALiaNANT EPIZOOTIC CATAHRH— THE SHEEP DISTEMPER. Definition, — An epidemic affection, occurring chiefly in the late winter and early spring, accompanied by severe conges- tion and inflammation of the lining membrane of the nasal cavities, and occasionally of its prolongation into the stomach and bowels, producing symptoms of catarrh, or, in the second case, of catarrh and gastro-enteritis. Causes. — As in most of the epizootic diseases, the cause is unknown. It generally prevails at the close of wet, open winters, with rapid changes of temperature, and in flocks which have been confined in ill-ventilated stables. But it is ako not uncommon where no such condition prevails. The periodical recurrences of this disease have proved very fatal to American sheep, and even yet, according to Col. Randall, it " continues to destroy more American sheej) than all other maladies combined." Sometimes forty or fifty per cent, of the flock succumb to it. Symptoms. — The disease commences with depression, and a slight watery discharge from the nostrils and from the eyes, which are partly closed and paler than natural. The ani- mal is dull and drooping, its movements languid, and more or less loss of appetite is manifest. The pulse is not altered in frequency, or but slightly so, but is weaker than usual. There is no cough, and the breathing is not affected, except where the disease is associated with bronchitis. 352 Diseases of Sheep. The symptoms mentioned slowly increase in severity until, in about a week, there are evident emaciation and great pros- tration. The nasal discharge is thick and glutinous, some- times tinged with blood ; the eyes are half closed, and the lids matted by a yellow secretion. The appetite has almost gone, and the pulse scarcely perceptible. The respiration is labored and difficult. In well-fed sheep the bowels continue natural, as a rule ; but in those on insufficient or poor diet the bowels may become inflamed and swollen, and dysenteric symptoms arise. The excrement is voided with pain, and it is mixed with blood. The attack usually commences with constii)atiou. The average length of the disease is ten to fifteen days. After death, the principal and characteristic lesion is a highly inflammatory, thickened and congested appearance of the lining membrane of the nostrils and nasal cavities throughout, sometimes passing into ulceration. This condi- tion may extend, with more or less intensity, to the mucous membrane of the upper throat and gullet ; and more rarely down the latter, and to the bowels. Treatmenti — It must be acknowledged that no plan of treatment has been tried with very satisfactory results. Cer- tain rules are, however, of considerable value. No bleeding, purging or depressants must be used. Concentrated and nourisliing food and stimulants are demanded from the out- set. A dry and equable temperature is important. In regard to medicines, Col. Randall believes that he has derived advantage from the use of corrosive sublimate, in small and repeated doses, providing that it is commenced early in the disease. He combines it as follows : — No. 394. Corrosive sublimate, 8 grains. Rhubarb, 1 oz. Ginger, Gentian, of each 2 oz. Simmer the last three articles in a quart of water, for fifteen minutes, strain, and add the sublimate. The dose is two tablespoonfuls, twice a day. Colic in Sheep. 353 COUC— BLOWN— BLAST-WIND DEOPSY. Definition. — By these names is known the swelling of the third stomach iu sheep, hj food and air, or gases. It is the disease which in cattle is called hoven (page 291). CauseSi — The most frequent cause is feeding on green clover, or other strong grass, wet with rain or dew. Musty and ergoted food, such as on stubble fields and blighted corn, are other provocatives of the disease ; and occasionally it arises from a constitutional difficulty in digestion. S3^pt0IUS. — The disease is readily recognized by a swell- ing of the belly on the left side, which appears while the animal is feeding, or shortly afterward. The breathing be- comes oppressed, the bowels are constipated, the eye anxious and wild ; there is every symptom of intense pain. Some say that in sheep, so long as the swelling is on the left side only, there is no danger; but when the right side partakes of the distention also, it is a sign that the walls of the rumen are expanded to the utmost and are in imminent danger of rupture. Treatment. — When the distention is great, no time must be lost in removing the wool from the most prominent part of the swelling, and plunging a trocar into the rumen, to allow the air to escape. When a trocar is not at hand, a sharp-pointed penknife should be used, the edges of the opening being kept apart by inserting a goose quill with a collar of leather, or some similar hollow tube. When the case is not so severe as this, stimulants and aromatics are the medicines demanded, as : — No. 395. Ground mustard. 1 drachm. Whisky, 1 oz. Mix and give iu a small quantity of water. Bepeat as needed. 354 jyiseases of Sheep. No, 396. Solution of potash, 2 drachms. Common salt, Sweet oil, each, 1 oz. Mix in a wineglass full of water. Mechanical means are often employed successfully to aid these remedies, or independent of them. The swollen stomach is pressed and kneaded with tlie hands, which urges the gas up the gullet. Or the sheep is plunged into cold water, which brings on relaxation of the gullet and the gas escai^es. Or a rubber tube of half-inch calibre, furnished with a button of wool at the end, to prevent clogging, is thoroughly oiled, and introduced gently into the gullet and passed down to the stomach. This will often cause the escape of air in large quantity and, give immediate relief. Such a tube has various uses, and one should be about every large fold. EED WATER— HEMATURIA. The name " red water " is sometimes applied to a form of dropsy, where the water accumulated in the abdomen is of a reddish color ; but it should be confined to a disease, not infrequent in various localities, characterized by a red color of the urine due- to the presence of red blood coloring matter in it. It is probably acute nephritis. CausOS. — These are exposure to cold and wet ; lying down on cold, marshy ground ; and in general, chilling from change of temperature. Well housed sheep rarely suffer from it. S3^pt0UlSi — The attack commences with diarrhea, of a dysenteric character, continued scouring, sometimes of bloody matter, and the passage of pink, red or dark urine. The animal is weak, and the belly swollen. If it is a ewe, the secretion of milk is suspended. The head is protruded or hanging, the breathing labored and panting. As the Red Water— Foot Rot. 355 diseass advances, palsy of the hind quarters, supervenes and the sheep rises up with difficulty, or not at all. Treatmenti — The animal should at once be brought in the house and well protected from wet and cold. Its loins and belly should be mopped with hot mustard water and covered with a rubber cloth, to keep the heat in. Internally it should take — No. 397. Oil of turpentine, J oz. Linseed oil, 1^ oz. Mix for a dose. The diet should be nourishing and stimulating; as, for instance, oat-meal gruel, made with cow's milk, and contain- ing a spoonful of powdered ginger or essence of ginger. With this treatment, recovery is pretty sure to take place. HOOF EOT— FOOT EOT. This is one of the most common diseases of American sheep, and with which every sheep owner in all parts of our land is pretty certain to become familiar at some period of his experience. Causes. — As to its cause, there can be no doubt but that it is generally contagion — always contagion, many observant breeders say. Others assert that it can be developed spon- taneously by pasturing in rank, lush grass, on damp meadows, and in boggy fields. They perhaps confound it with foul in the foot, which is a comparatively trifling and temporary affection. Symptoms. — The descriptions of this disease as it appears in various prominent English works, notably those of Mr. Youatt, are misleading and inapplicable to the American form of it, especially in its earlier stages. "VYe shall there- fore rather depend on the descriptions of Col. Randall and 856 Diseases of Sheep. Mr. Clok, both of whom have observed it extensively in various parts of the United States. The first symptom is the disappearance of the naturally smooth, dry, pale condition of the skin at the top of the cleft, over the heels. It becomes somewhat red, warm and moist, and slightly rough or chafed. Next, the moisture in- creases to a discharge, and an ulcer is formed which extends down to the uj)per portion of the inner wall of the hoof. These walls are then attacked, become disorganized, and the disease penetrates between the fleshy sole and the bottom of the hoof. The hoof is thickened at the heel, by an unnatural dej)osition of horn. The crack between it and the fleshy sole pours out an oifensive and purulent matter. Soon all parts of the foot are penetrated by the burrowing ulceration, the horny sole is disorganized, and the fleshy sole becomes a black and swollen mass of corruption, shapeless, spongy, and often filled with maggots. The fore feet are usually first attacked ; lameness is early noticed and soon becomes complete ; general fever comes on late ; the appetite is lost, and the animal dies from exhaus- tion. The offensive odor of the true foot rot is characteristic, and once made familiar will serve as a certain guide in recogniz- ing the disease. The disease may present itself in a malig- nant and rapid form, or in a mild one. Its first attack on a flock is generally of the severer character. When it is kept under the first year, its appearance the next summer will be mild ; and the third season still milder. Treatment. — \yhile it is evident from the above descrip- tion that foot rot is a dangerous, disgusting and painful disease, we have the satisfaction of adding that with proi)er treatment and sufficient care, it is always curable. In fact, no disease of the sheep yields more certainly to remedies properly used. And if, as often happens, the farmer findi Treatment of Foot Rot 357 his slieep still limping and hobbling after he has, as he thinks, given them proper attention, it is because he has been ignorant of what the case demands. The most important, the absolutely indispensable part of the treatment is, the preparation of the hoof, by cutting away every particle of the diseased structure. No remedy will succeed if this is neglected ; almost any one of the dozens recommended will be satisfactory if this is well done. The sheep should first have their feet cleaned, by grazing a day or two in a short, dry pasture ; or by being driven through a gravelly brook, when this is practicable. As for the operation itself, Mr. CI ok gives the following directions, which are none too minute : — The operator provides himselfwith a strong and sharp, but narrow-bladed knife. He seats himself, and has an assistant turn the sheep on its back, and open the.cleft of the hoof. He then begins at the suture and cuts out all horn which has sepa- rated from the foot and is suffused with matter. The inner sides of the horny capsule deserve special attention, as do also the parts where the horn appears whiter and softer than on the other parts of the hoof. The knife must be freely used, and all loose horn removed up to the point whete the con- nection remains unimpaired. The bleeding which may occur is wholly without danger. A knowledge of the anatomy of the sheep's hoof will pre- vent the abuse of the knife. It is proper, in all cases, to j)arQ down the sick hoof considerably at the toe and external wall, because it can then be more easily examined, and it does not touch the ground so forcibly when the animal is walking as when it is larger than the healthy one. The knife must be cleaned from time to time, so that the matter adhering to it does not infect the healthy parts. If the disease is further advanced, and the secretion has collected far down in the hoof, the same operation is per- 358 Diseases of Sheep, formed ; and it will sometimes be necessary to remove the whole capsule. Every hidden channel which may be present should be sounded, opened and laid bare. If the wound becomes covered with blood during the operation, as is com- monly the case, it should be frequently dried with tow. If a single diseased place remain from which the horn is not removed, a cure cannot be expected. After cutting away the whole or a part of the horny capsule, it is always neces- sary to apply a bandage to protect the hoof from dangerous external irritation. The foot thus thoroughly prepared, the next step is to apply a caustic. Of these, very many have been suggested. Colonel Randall prefers to everything else a hot saturated solution of sulphate of copper (common blue vitriol). He fills a large, shallow tank with water, to the depth of four inches, and has each sheep stand ten minutes in it, or, in bad cases, longer. The solution is kept as hot as the hand can bear it, by the addition of boiling water, saturated with the vitriol. This he extols as the most certain, the easiest and the cheap- est remedy he has ever tried. For the same reasons Mr. Clok praises chloride of lime (common bleaching powder). After paring the foot, he covers it with the chloride, and fills the cleft with a piece of tow, whose ends are twisted into a small cord and fastened around the pastern joint. This forms a soft and tightly fitting bandage. The hoofs are inspected daily for some time, and the chloride renewed if necessary. Two or three appli- cations may be required. In malignant cases, before apply- ing the chloride, he would bathe the parts with — No. 398. Creasote, 1 part. Alcohol, 4 parts. For a foot wash. Of the many other applications popular in rot, we give some examples, premising with the remark that any one of Treatment of Foot Rot. 359 them is useful if the foot is well prepared, and no one of them is worth much otherwise. One quite popular in central New York is — No. 399. Sulphate of copper (blue vitriol), 1 lb. Acetate of copper (verdigris), ^ lb. Linseed oil, 1 pint. Tar, 1 quart. Eub the vitriol and verdigris in very fine powder, with the oil, then add the tar and mix thoroughly. Mr. Finlay Dun speaks well of the following : — No. 400. Powdered sulphate of copper, 1 part. Tar, 3 parts. Mix well over a slow fire. And— No. 401. Oil of turpentine, 1 part. Sweet oil, 3 parts. Used in tedious cases of foot rot. Carbolic acid in 5 or 6 per cent, solution, nitrate of silver, chloride of zinc, and in fact almost any of the caustics answer well. Whatever preparation is used, the sheep should be kept in a dry, well-littered shed, or on a short, dry pasture for a day or two after the application, as if they are at once turned into a field covered with wet and high grass, it is obvious that the caustic will in great part be washed from the foot. The foot rot is essentially a local disease ; but in severe cases it is advised to give internally a tonic, such as — No. 402. Common salt, 1 to 2 drachms. Sulphate of iron. Nitrate of potash, of each ^ drachms. Make into a powder, to be given daily. When the rot appears in its most malignant form, and the case is a very bad one, many veterinarians claim that no remedy is equal to butter of antimony (solution of terchlor- ide of antimony). It is an energetic caustic, and must be employed cautiously. As it cannot be diluted with water « 360 Diseases of Sheep, without undergoing decomposition, it should be mixed with an equal quantity of compound tincture of myrrh. Prof. Williams states that for general use in the disease he has found it as effectual, and much less painful to the animal than any other. The sulphate of copper he thinks suitable for mild cases. As a preventive of foot rot, nothing is so effective as a solution of arsenic, used in the following manner : — No. 403. Arsenic, Washing soda, of each 2 lb. Water, 10 gallons. Boil slowly to eight gallons, and fill up to ten. "With this, the hoofs of the sheep are thoroughly sponged after cleaning; or the animal is obliged to stand for a minute or two in a tub or shallow trough containing it. Some of the largest Scotch breeders use this occasionally during the summer and fall, and as a consequence foot rot is unknown in their flocks. FOUL IN THE FOOT. Although sheep are much less subject to this disease than cattle, they will contract it if kept in wet and filthy yards, or on moist, boggy pastures. They are also prone to it in wet seasons, from walking in the tall, dripping grass. The skin in the cleft of the foot has a macerated or water- soaked appearance, accompanied by slight inflammation^ passing into ulceration, and bringing on lameness. Often at this stage it is mistaken for hoof rot. The treatment of the disease is simple, as it will generally disappear of itself if the flock is turned on dry, short, up- land pastures, or kept in a clean, well- littered yard. Further than this, it is well to wash and other\vise clean the feet, and paint them with a mixture of one part powdered blue vitriol Stone in Sheep, . 361 rubbed up with five or sis parts of tar ; or other simple stimulant and cleansing preparation. STONE IN THE BLADDEB. INIale sheep, both rams and wethers, especially when highly- fed, are subject to the formation of stones in the bladder. These stones are not of carbonate of lime, as those in the horse aud ox (see page 161), but like those occasionally found in the pig, consist of the ammonio-phosphate of mag- nesia. Their presence is attributed to high feeding, or to feeding on some special article of diet, especially oil cake and turnips, both these foods being rich in the chemical sub- stances which make up the stone. The symptoms are difficulty and pain in passing water, straining, and sometimes bloody urine. Treatment. — It is possible to operate successfully for stone in the bladder in sheep; but unless the animal is valuable, it is not worth while to undertake treatment. In costly rams, kept for breeding purposes, after the stone is removed, the treatment recommended by an English writer, Mr. Litt, may be undertaken with a fair prospect of preventing any further return or increase of the trouble. He begins with a dose as follows : — Ko, 404. Castor oil, 6 to 8 oz. Extract of belladonna, 8 to 16 grains. Mix for one dose. After this has acted he puts the ram on doses of bi- carbonate of potash, thirty to sixty grains, rej)eated thrice daily, freely diluted with water. The bowels are kept open by laxative food, and the animal is given plenty of exercise 362 Diseases of Sheep. LAMBUJG IS THE EWE. Northern farmers aim to have their lambs yeaned in April and the first weeks of May. In the Merina and Saxon breeds this act generally takes place without impediment; but in high-kept English ewes, difficult positions of the lamb occasionally require the shepherd's assistance. The natural position of the lamb in leaving the womb is with the nose first, and the fore feet on each side of it. But the lamb can be born without much delay which presents with both hind feet and the rump. The general methods of relief are the same in false presen- tations as have been described in the cow, (page 320). The broad rules are, when the lamb presents unnaturally, to push it back into the womb ; when force is applied to withdraw it, be sure that it is exerted in the line of the vagina, and simultaneously with the labor pains, the operator resting when they pass oif ; and the exercise of traction in a gentle and steady, not in a jerking manner. When the pains are deficient, they can be stimulated with ergot, as — No. 405. Powdered ergot, Powdered ginger, of each 30 grains. For one dose. When the pains are excessive and exhausting, the follow- ing is recommended, to render them regular and keep up the strength : — Ko. 40G. Spirits of camphor, 1 drachm. Laudanum, J oz. Give in some gruel. As in cows (see page 323), so in ewes, the womb is liable to become inverted and hang, like a bag, from the vagina. The treatment is substantially the same. It should be well washed "with alum water, carefully returned, and retained either by a bandage, or by taking a single strong stitch Lamhing in the Ewe. 363 through the lips of the vagina. If this fails to effect a cure, and the falling of the womb becomes habitual, it should be strongly corded close to the vagina and allowed to slough off. Milh Fever in Ewes. Puerperal fever or milkf&ver is not common among ewes, at least in the United States. It more generally affects mid- dle-aged ewes and those carrying twins; those which are highly fed and plethoric are special subjects for its attacks. The early symptoms are, loss of appetite ; twitching of the hind legs and ears ; dullness and weakness ; staggering ; and the discharge of a dark-colored and offensively smelling fluid from the vagina. The time of attack is generally a few days before the expected yeaning . time, and the fetus is nearly always discharged dead, and often putrid. The treatment recommended by an experienced New York sheep raiser is as follows : — Separate the sick ewe at once from the flock, and give her Ko. 407. Sulphate of magnesia, 2 to 3 oz. Nitrate of potash, 1 I'.rachm. Molasses, 3 oz. Give in a pint of warm linseed gruel. ' Should tliis not open the bowels in eight or ten hours, it should be repeated. After that the nitre and molasses are continued, without the salts, as long as there is fever. If the period of yeaning is at hand, as is generally the case, a little extract of belladonna is to be put on the end of the finger, and placed on the mouth of the womb. This, repeated hourly, will soon cause relaxation and discharge of the con- tents. The womb should then be thoroughly syringed out with warm water and milk, dilute lime water, or a warm, weak solution of chloride of lime or carbolic acid (1 or 2 per cent.). The ewe's position is made as comfortable as possi- 364 Diseases of Sheep, ble, and always changed twice a day. Tonics and nutritious food are called for, to hasten tlie return to health. As a preventive, a small quantity of grain, say half a pint per head, for two months before lambing, is generally effi- cient. If constipation persists after lambing or abortion, Prof. Gamgee recommends that the ewe be given — No. 408. Sulphate of magnesia, ^ oz. Laudanum, 1 drachm. Powdered camphor, J drachm. Mix in gruel, for one dose. - Garget in Ewes. The symptoms of this are enlargement of the udder, which is hot and tender to the touch and has a dense, fleshy feeling. Sometimes it is so sensitive that the ewe refuses the lamb. In the more severe type, what is termed "black garget," there is a dark-colored spot or spots of mortification on the udder, which break, forming ugly and intractable ulcers. The ewe is lame, and often suifers from chills and shivering. The treatment must be prompt. The udder must be thoroughly fomented with a sheepskin dipped in hot salt water, and if tha inflammation is high, the udder hot, and the swelling extending upward, blood must be drawn, to the extent of half a pint, from the large vein which runs under the belly. Internally the ewe should have No. 409. Sulphate of magnesia, 4 oz. Powdered ginger. 1 oz. Oil of turpentine, J oz. Mix for one dose. If these measures do not reduce the swelling, as soon as matter forms, and can be detected by a fluctuating feeling imparted to the finger, the spot must be lanced freely, the pus turned out, and the cavity thoroughly syringed with strong salt water. Hheumatism in Lambs. 365 In mild cases we mav omit the turpentine from the above and give — No. 410. Sulphate of magnesia, 3 oz. Flowers of sulphur, 1 oZo Mix in gruel. The lamb should be put to the teat as often, and as soon, as practicable. EHETTMATISM OF LAMBS. A disease which has occasionally been spoken of as identical with the one described as Louping 111, and re- garded as a species of "palsy," is simply acute rheumatism as it manifests itself in young lambs, within the first few weeks of their lives. S3^ptOIIlS. — The symptoms are not always the same. The first is generally a stiffness of one or more legs. Walking is obviously difficult, and the motion of the limbs unnatural and clumsy. This stiffness extends to the other joints, especially to the neck, which is cramped, and unwillingly moved. The animal is listless, depressed, and remains in one position. The bowels become obstinately constipated, and the belly lean and tucked up. Usually the joints swell and become painful, the swelling being hot and tender to the touch. After death these enlargements are found to be due to inflammation of the cartilages and lining membranes of the joints, presenting the usual appearance of acute articular rheumatism. The disease generally lasts from one to two weeks, but death may occur sooner ; and when recovery does take place it is generally slow, requiring three or four weeks, with a liability to relapses. Treatment, — It is the opinion among intelligent breeders that this malady is frequently, perhaps generally brought on 366 Diseases of Sheep. by injudicious feeding of the ewe during her period of gestation, thus vitiating the blood of the lamb, and render- ing it unable to withstand the changes of temperature to which it is exposed. Thus it is stated by Mr. Clok that if the diet of the ewe during the last months of pregnancy consists of much clover, hay, potatoes, grain, and drinks of groats, the lambs are very prone to palsy soon after birth. Mouldy food of all kinds, mouldy oil cakes, rotten carrots, potatoes, etc., as well as putrid water, are very injurious. The injurious influence of vitiated food in producing this rheumatic disease in lambs has not only been proved by numerous accidental observations, but is shown beyond a doubt by interesting and striking direct experiments. The fact that the milk of the mother exercises great influence in the production of the disease is proved by the experiment of alloAving healthy lambs to suck the milk of a ewe whose young perished in this way. This experiment has been tried repeatedly, and the lambs were always affected with the dis- ease. The fact is therefore beyond a doubt. Not only vitiated or improper food causes the milk of the mother to become injurious, but also a diseased condition of the ewe, especially if she be affected with the fluke and rot. In lambs, catching cold is a source of the disease, which is the more certainly produced if the above-mentioned predis- position exists. It cannot, however, be stated with certainty whether catching cold is necessary, or whether the disease may be produced without, nor has it been ascertained if it can arise solely from catching cold without the presence of a predisposition for the disease or of other circumstances. Both are probable, however. It is most common during the wet, cold days of March and April and during bad weather, especially when the sheep are kept in warm, narrow and close stables. It appears particularly in weak, thin-wooled lambs Rheumatism in Lambs. 367 whose development is retarded, probably because they are most sensitive to cold. Besides securing a proper diet for the ewes, the lambs, which are constipated, should have a preventive medical treatment, by giving them a warm laxative drench, such as No. 410. Sulphate of magnesia, 2 oz. Powdered carraway or ginger, \ oz. Mix in a half pint of thin gruel, and give a wineglassful, warm, to a Iamb two weeks old. In the beginning of the mild forms of the disease Mr. Clok, says the following is a certain remedy : No. 411. Sulphuretted antimony, powdered, 5 parts. Fresh butter, 1 part. Mix, and give a piece the size of a hazel nut, three times a day. Or the following : No. 412. Sal ammoniac, 1 oz. Sulphate of soda, 2 oz. Essence of ginger, 1 drachm. Mix in a quart of water, and give a teaspoonful several times a day. The use of a strong decoction of willow bark, sweetened with molasses, and given in spoonful doses, often repeated, promises well in such cases. The local treatment should be by soothing and sedative liniments, as of oil and laudanum, or soap liniment, with hot fomentations. The swellings should not be irritated with stimulating liniments, and still less, opened, as some ignor- ant persons have occasionally done. Baths are efficient agents in aiding the cure. Some prefer cold baths at 50° Fahrenheit, in order to reduce the febrile symptoms. But better results will be obtained by warm baths at 95° to 100° Fah., in which some salt and mustard are dissolved. In this the lamb should be soaked for a half hour or hour, when it can be dried, wrapped in a woolen blanket, and placed in a warm corner. 368 Diseases of Sheep. CONSTIPATION IN LAMBS. Lambs, especially those wliich are fed artificially, either on cow's milk or the milk of other ewes, are liable to constipa- tion. The bowels ceasing to act, the animal droops, and lies doy»'"n most of the time.' Its belly becomes distended, the urine becomes scanty or almost suspended, the brain is oppressed, a stupor supervenes, and if not speedily relieved, the animal dies. The treatment in such cases may be by medicines which act on the bowels, or by injections into the rectum, or by . both combined. Two or three spoonfuls of melted lard, or one spoonful of castor oil are suitable internally. But the most reliable treatment is to give the lamb an injection of warm milk, about the temperature of the body, colored to a light brown by molasses stirred in it, two or three ounces of which are to be administered with a small syringe. To give this properly, the lamb should be held up perpendicu- larly by the hind legs, so that the fore feet but just touch the floor, during and for a moment after the injection. If hardened dung is not discharged with the fluid, or soon after- ward, the injection is to be repeated. If after the medicine has operated the lamb continues in- active and dull, it requires a tonic, as some spoonfuls of strong boneset tea (Eupatorium perfoliatum), or this, recom- mended by Prof. Gamgee : — No. 413. Golden sulphur of antimony, J drachm. Common salt, 1 drachm. For a dose, once daily. DIAERHEA IN LAICBS. Diarrhea, which frequently attacks whole herds on first feeding on green grass, is usually of no danger ; and when in individual cases simple diarrhea calls for attention, it 2 ■D O 3) H m CO O c H D O Diarrhea in Lamhs, 369 should be treated on the same principles and with the same remedies previously recommended for calves (see page 337). But in sucking lambs diarrhea is often a very fatal disease, and must receive the closest attention of the shepherd, in order to rescue the patient. Causes. — These are chiefly exposure to cold, sudden changes of temperature, as a hot stable in winter, and the drafts and bad air it involves, and improper diet. Cold drinks and a plethoric condition of the ewe are other causes. Symptoms. — These are well described by Mr. Clok, as follows : The disease ap^^ears without warning ; the lamb becomes languid and sad, keeps away from the other lambs, stands with bent back, or lies down frequently. The ex- crement, which is repeatedly discharged, is thin, whitish or greenish, afterward watery and mixed with mucus, and finally bloody. The animal ceases to suck and eat, but is very thirsty. It bleats frequently, evinces signs of pain if pres- sure is applied to its belly, and makes efforts to discharge excrement. The lamb rapidly loses flesh, its belly sinks in, and death ensues between the second and fifth days, and sometimes even on the first day. If the body is opened, the rennet-bag especially, and a large portion of the intestines, are found to be inflamed. The rennet-bag and the intestines, particularly the inflamed parts, contain a substance looking like cheese or curdled milk. The best sheep are most liable to the disease, but if it appears as a plague, all lambs without distinction suffer from it. . Treatment. — This should, of course, be, in the first place, to do away with the predisposing causes we have mentioned above. A general rule is to change the food as soon as the diarrhea appears in a fold, even though it may not seem to be at fault. Ventilation, pure air, and a temperature between 24 370 Diseases of Sheep. 50° and 60° are to be obtained, when possible. One of the best of foods for lambs is — No. 414. White of egg, 1 part. Water, 6 parts. Beat together, and give milk-warm, as much as the patient wants. A little laudanum can be added to this, if desired. The albumen of the egg is soothing and restraining to the deli- cate intestinal membrane, while it supports the strength. For a mild medicine, the following : — No. 415. Prepared chalk. 2 oz. Ginger, in powder, J oz. Opium, in powder, 1 drachm. Mix in a pint of peppermint or calamus tea, and give a tablespoonful night and morning. When more positive astringent action is demanded, one ounce of powdered catechu should be added to the above. In serious cases, where, as above mentioned, the stools become slimy and tinged with blood, and the weakness is great, we must have recourse to arsenic. Two to three drops of Fowler's solution of arsenic should be given three or four times a day, in a teaspoonful of water, to a young lamb. Sometimes such cases can be benefited by small doses of quinine, two or three grains given five or six times a day. One variety of diarrhea in lambs is known as the " white scour," because the excrement is of a whitish color. It is usually watery and very acrid, and irritating to the external parts. With it there is much colic, loss of aj)petite, and rapidly increasing weakness. In all cases this arises from the non-digestion of the ewe's milk. Either the lamb has a weak stomach, or overloads it, or the milk is not of a healthy character. Highly fed ewes are specially liable to have this disease in their lambs, their milk probably being too rich. The treatment is to prevent the lamb taking so much, or Diarrhea in Lambs, ' 371 to put it on dilute cow's milk for a few days. In addition, it should have an alkaline laxative, to clear the bowels — Ko. 416. Bicarbonate of potash, Calcined magnesia, of each J oz. Divide into eight powders, and give one four times a day. This may be given for one or two days, until the character of the evacuations changes. Should the weakness be threat- eningly great, the following will be found unsurpassed : — Js'o. 417. Eggs, 2 Whiskey, 2 oz. Essence of ginger, 1 drachm. Beat up in a pint of oatmeal gruel, made with milk, and give a few spoonfuls every 3 hours. TTmNSICK—STUUDY— GIB— HYDATID OF THE BEAIN. Definition. — A disease of the brain of the sheep, character- ized chiefly by vertigo, acd owing to the j^resence in the brain of a hydatid, or bladder-worm, the Ccenurus ccrehralis. Causes. — We know more about the the species of parasite which causes this disease than about many other species of those strange animals. The bladder-worm of the head of the sheep is nothing else than a form of the tapeworm of the dog, Tcenia cenurus, at an earlier stage of its existence. The mature tapeworm lives in the bowels of the dog ; its eggs are passed with the excrement, and they feed on the grass which the sheep eats, and are swallowed with the food; thus introduced to a suitable home, they select as their quarters the animal's brain, in the substance of which they attain their full growth, which may be about the size of a hen's ejjo;. Not more than two can develop in the brain at one time, and it is rare to find more than one of any considerable size. The victims are usually lambs and hoggets, sheep over two years being rarely affected. It prevails most where dogs are 372 Diseases of Sheep. used to attend the sheep, and where they frequent the pas- tures. The bladder consists of a thin membrane, filled with watery, yellowish fluid, in which a large number of small, white bodies are floating, each the immature tapeworm, provided with hooks and a sucking mouth, which it applies to the inner walls of the bladder, and through them derives its nourishment from the brain substance. Symptoms. — These are curious and well marked. "Wlien the animal is first affected there are staggering, reeling and stupefaction, little appetite and debility. In walking the animal describes a circle, always turning in the same direction, lifting its feet high, and often running against ob- stacles. Total blindness and deafness may ensue. These may subside for a while, as the contents of the skull adapt themselves to the hydatid ; but as it continues to enlarge and consume the brain, the symptoms return with greater sever- ity, palsy creeps on, the animal can no longer stand, becomes insensible and dies. The location of the hydatid in the brain is indicated by the motion or turning of the sheep. If it is in the left lobe or half of the brain the animal turns to the right ; if in the right lobe, his turning is to the left ; if in the back part of the brain, the cerebellum, the movements are performed without control, the head is elevated, the limbs moved with difficulty, and he starts and falls repeatedly ; finally, if the hydatid is in the middle of the brain in front, the sheep goes forward in a straight line, holds its nose in the air, steps very high, and soon loses the sight of one or both eyes. The growth of the hydatid is rather rapid, and in three weeks' time from the first aj)pearance of the symptoms, if the skull be pressed firmly with the thumb where the above rules point out the lodging of the hydatid, a noticeable de- gree of softening will be found, as if the skull were want- Hydatid of the Brain. 373 ing in that particular sj)ot. In fact, the bone has become thin, and been absorbed by the suckers of the small tape- worms above described ; and sometimes the skin is accident- ally broken, the hydatid emerges and ruptures its cyst, and the sheep recovers. Treatment. — The natural cure just described, which, how- ever, is very rare, suggests the proper course of treatment. The head must be repeatedly felt, for the soft spot in the skull, and a? soon as it is fixed uj)on, a trocar and canula are introduced, the trocar withdrawn, a syringe applied through the canula, and the contents of the cyst extracted. This treatment always alleviates for the time, but it is liable to be followed by inflammation of the brain and death ; or by the growth of another hydatid, which requires the repetition of the operation. Hence we would suggest another means of easy application, which has proved, in some hands, very successful. This is, not to open the cyst to the air, which is very liable to produce destructive inflammation, but to punctm-e its walls with the needle of a strong hypo- dermic syringe and inject into it with some of the following solution : — No. 418. Iodine, 1 grain. Iodide of potash, 6 grains. Water, 1 oz. Mix and use a half teaspoonfal at a time. Important preventive measures are to keep dogs away from the sheep folds and walks ; or to give them,if required for attendance on the sheep, a good tapeworm vermifuge, now and then ; and to administer the same to the shee}> themselves. 374 Diseases of Sheep. SHEEP BOTS— GEUBS IN THE HEAD— HEAD MAGGOTS. "We liave described on an earlier page (p. 150), the his^ tory of the gadfly or bot fly in the horse. The species of the same insect which attacks the sheep, the cestnis ovis, does not choose the stomach or bowels as the place of its residence when in the larval condition, but a far more annoying part of the body of its unwilling host, to wit, the nostrils and frontal sinuses, or hollow chambers in the front of the skull communicating with the nostrils. The sheep greatly dread the fly, and at its approach will run ■wildly about, bury their nostrils in the dust, or gather together in groups, with their heads downward, jostling against each other, to drive away their enemy. When struck by the fly they stamp the ground violently, and exhibit other signs of distress, amounting to agony. As soon as the larva is deposited at the entrance of the nostril, it proceeds upward, holding on by the firm hooks which arm its head, and makes its way into the furthest recesses of the nasal chambers, causing the animal, in its progress, great pain and irritation, resulting sometimes in vertigo, inflammation of the brain, madness and death. When the disease has reached its highest point the animal loses flesh, falls down frequently, grinds its teeth, rolls its reddened eyes, and finally dies on the fourth or eighth day. In mild cases recovery takes place unaided ; the larvae are thrown out by frequent sneezing, along wdth mucus ; and this is the only sure sign of the disease, at least, for the non- professional. Sometimes vertigo is present at the same time. If the head of a dead animal is opened, more or less larvae are found in the above-mentioned cavities, which re- semble those found in the stomachs of horses. The mucous membrane of these cavities is inflamed, red, bluish, dark- Gruhs in the Head. 375 red or ash-colored, and sometimes even gangrenous at dif- ferent points. Thirty and even forty of these larvae have been found together, but there is generally a much smaller number present. Treatment. — The line of treatment pursued may be in three directions ; — 1st. By violent sneezing the bots can sometimes be expelled from the nostrils. For this purpose, tobacco snuff can be shaken into the animal's nostril ; or when, owing to the number, this is impracticable, they may be driven into a close shed, and irritating substances, such as horn, leather, feathers, etc., be burned. 2dly. In severe cases, the horns are sawed oflf close to the head, the sinuses opened with a trocar, and some sweet oil, flavored with turpentine, is poured in. 3dly. The sheep are seized, and the nose held up, while a teaspoonful or two of a mixture of equal parts of sweet oil and turpentine are poured into the nostrils. This requires some care, that the animal is not choked by the fluid passing into the lungs. It is, however, very efficacious. To prevent the flies from depositing their eggs in the nos- trils, some shepherds smear the noses of the sheep with tar during June and July ; others run furrows across the field, so that the sheep can protect themselves from the flies by burying their nose in the dirt. ITJNG WOEMS— THE HOOSE IN IAMBS. Deflnition. — A disease caused by the presence in the breathing tubes (the windpipe and bronchi), and the bowels, of a worm, called the lung worm, strongulus filai-ia. The complaint is quite common in Ohio, where it is known as "white skin," the " j^ale disease," "paper skin," " pelt rot," etc., from the bloodless appearance which precedes death. It is often very fatal, though it should not be, as it is a curable disease. 376 Diseases of Sheep. ,' CsUSei — While in one sense we know the cause of this disease, as stated in the definition above, in another sense we ar^e ignorant of it, as the origin and life history of these curious parasites are still a sealed book to us. The disease prevails especially in low, damp situations ; on grounds sub- ject to overflow, and grown with rank grass ; after heavy rains, and in the autumn months. It has already been to some extent discussed, in speaking of hoose in calves. According to the best authorities, the disease is steadily increasing, both in England and the United States. [See Highland Agric. Soc. Reports, 1878). The worm itself is from one to three inches in length, slender and whitish, like a thread, and while in sheep they are mostly found in the bronchial tubes, in lambs they are discovered in the lung tissue itself. When in the lungs of sheep, they are not active, but folded in cysts. Often they are matted together in masses or balls, which choke up the passages they inhabit. Symptoms. — The presence of these worms does not always cause inconvenience to the sheep. Occasionally primcj and to all appearances perfectly healthy animals are killed, whose lungs are found filled with them. In lambs, however, they are a frequent cause of death. W^lieii lodged in the bowels, the symptoms are those of dysentery, with fetid stools. There is much straining, and clots of blood may be passed. When in the lungs, they cause irrita- tion and inflammation, indicated by a husky cough, quickened breathing, rubbing the nose on the ground, loss of appetite and flesh, and exhaustion. These symptoms are clearly not positive, and, indeed, the only unquestionable sign of the presence of the worm is its discovery in the feces, or in the mucus from the mouth and throat. The combination, how- ever, of a cou.h in a number of lambs, occurring often with dysenteric symptoms, and under the conditions above men- PARASITES OF ANIMALS. Treatment of Lung Worms. 377 tioned, should lead to the careful examination of the lungs and windpipe of the first victim, for the pm-pose of discovering the parasite. The complaint is often mistaken for a sort of " scours," but if attention is paid to the short, husky, often almost incessant cough, which is nearly invariably present in all forms of the disease, such an error will not be committed. Treatment. — The preventive treatment is to feed the lambs on fresh pastures ; second and third year crops are to be specially avoided, if they have been previously grazed by sheep. In damp seasons, hilly and Avell-drained fields should be chosen ; and abundance of nutritive food furnished. Rock salt should be placed in the fields, or common salt given frequently. To cure the disease, the worm should be attacked both in the lungs and in the bowels. To destroy them in the lungs, chlorine gas has been recommended for inhaling ; but it is unsafe, and sulphurous acid gas is equally efficient. The animals are placed in a roomy, closed shed or stable, and the gas obtained by burning sulphur, as recommended on page 29. Should the chlorine gas be preferred, it is to be managed as follows : — Get a pound of chloride of lime (bleaching powder), and mix it with water in a shallow dish, to about the thickness of cream. The sheep should be collected in a closed shed or stable, and the operator enters, provided with this dish of chloride and a bottle of common sulphuric acid (oil of vitriol). He pours the acid very gradually on the chloride, by which the chlorine gas will be rapidly disengaged. He continues it as long as he can conveniently breathe the air thus saturated with the gas, and when he can do this no longer with comfort, he retires, taking his apparatus with him. The sheep are left to breathe the gas for half an hour, and should be subjected to it twice a day for several days. Both when in the lungs and intestines, twyentine inter- 378 Diseases of Sheep. nally will dislodge or destroy the worms. This penetrating oil is probably carried by the blood to the lungs, where its fumes are so unpleasant to the parasites that they are dis- lodged. An eminent English authority, Dr. Crisp, in a recent essay on this disease, furnishes the following as excel- lent receipts for this purpose : — Ko. 419. Sulphate of magnesia, 6 oz. Nitrate of potash, 4 oz. Pour on these three pints boiling water, and when the solution is milk warm, add :— Oil of turpentine, 4 oz. Bole armeniac, ^ oz. Mix well, and give three or four tableepoonfuls every other day. Or— Ko. 420. Common salt, 3 lb. Powdered ginger, Nitrate of potash, each J lb. Dissolve in three gallons warm water, and when nearly cold, add— Oil of turpentine, 24 oz. The dose for lambs from four to six months old is one wineglassful. The above quantity will suffice for 160 lambs. Mr. Finlay Dun recommends that when lung worms pre- vail, throughout the summer and fall months the lambs should have, about once a fortnight, a dose of the following tonic and vermifuge mixture : — No. 421. Oil of turpentine. Powdered gentian, Laudanum, of each 2 oz. Dissolve in a quart of linseed tea or lime water. This is enough for ten or twelve doses. Prof. N. S. Townshend, of Ohio, who has written ably on this disease, gives to lambs the following :— ^ No. 422. Oil of turpentine, J oz. Whiskey. 1 pint. Shake together, and give a tablespoonful once a day for a week or two The Rot. 379 THE ROT— THE LIVER rLTJZE. Definition. — A disease of the sheep caused by the presence in the liver of a flat worm, of the order Tremaioda, and kno^vn as the liver fluke, Fasciola hepatica. Cause. — The close attention which has been given of late years to the study of parasites has resulted in a history almost complete of the fluke worm. The mature worm throws off several thousand eggs, which pass with the feces from the anus. Some of them are carried by rains, or the feet of passing animals, into water courses. There they de- velop into higher forms, and take up their residence, for a time, in the bodies of shell fish and water insects. At the time of an inundation, numbers of them, with and without their hosts, are left on the meadows. The sheep eat them with the grass, and the miniature fluke passes down the bowel until it reaches the liver duct, which it ascends, and forthwith begins its final development and ovulation. Hence it is that the rot is especially prevalent during the spring of the year, when rains are abundant and freshets frequent ; in wet seasons, when the meadows are' damp and overflowed at times ; and on low grounds, where the transfer of aquatic worms, etc., to the soil is rendered easy. The fluke itself is a flat, transparent or whitish worm, from half an inch to an inch in length, and about a third as much in breadth. It is usually found in the liver, but occasionally in other internal organs. Their number is fre- quently enormous, reaching occasionally to eight hundred or a thousand individuals in a single liver. Symptoms. — In wet seasons, and in certain localities, the loss by the rot in sheep is very heavy. It is quite destructive in Australia, at times in England, and in some parts of the United States. Hence it becomes of prime importance ta 380 Diseases of Sheep. recognize the early signs of the disease, in Order that efficient measures for its prevention may be adopted. The Scotch shepherds tell the presence of the fluke in two ways : 1, by the feel of the flesh ; 2, by the appear- ance of the eye. They catch a ewe, and clapj)ing their hand on the small of the back, they rub the flesh backward and forward, betwixt their fingers and thumb and the ends of the short ribs. If the flesh is solid and firm they consider her as sound ; if they find it soft and flabby, and imparting a crackling feel to the fingers, as if there was water or blubber in it, they consider it a sign of unsoundness. The other plan is to take the sheep's head between the hands, and press down the eyelids so as to push forward the winking membrane (membrana nictitaiis), and bring into view the white, or conjunctiva. In health, this is thin, pink, and free from turbid secretion ; and if it appears thickened, yellowish, or dead white, with a secretion altered to a whitish or yellowish matter, the sheep is condemned. The progress "of the rot is usually slow. The animal be- comes inactive and dull ; the lining membrane of the mouth turns pale, the flesh wastes, the skin loses its ruddy color, becomes dry, and devoid of the natural oil on the fleece. It is said that a dry, scaly state of the skin on the inner side of the thighs, particularly where it is uncovered with wool or hair, is one of the earliest symptoms apparent. As the disease progresses, 'the flanks become hollow, the back rigid, and there are weakness and tenderness about the loins. The fleece falls oif in patches, the belly swells, the eye becomes jaundiced, and there is dropsy in different parts of the body. The thirst is usually excessive, the appetite irregular and unnatural ; there are diarrhea, a weak heart and general stupor. After death the liver is found to be hard, irregular, of a dirty chocolate brown, and filled with flukes. The meat is The Rot or Fluke. ., 381 flabby, pale or yellow, watery and wasted, very different in firmness and color from healthy mutton. Treatment. — As it may be considered certain that the fluke cannot develope its various stages of life on dry land, it is important to secure well-drained pastures for sheep. Should a flock once be attacked, it is better to dispose of them, and turn the pastm-age into cultivation for a few seasons. In wet seasons, when there is danger from the rot, even on sound pastures, the natural food should be supplemented by cakes, corn, beans, or other nutritious diet. An abundance of common salt is recognized by all writers to be very effi- cient in preventing the disease. It may be placed freely in the pastures, where they can gain access to it, or it may advantageously be given in a combination as follow^s : — - No. 423. Common salt, 2 lbs. Sulphate of iron, 1 lb. Mix with clover, meal, or grain, for 100 sheep. Give twice or three times a week. Or— No. 424. Mustard flour, 1 lb. Juniper berries, Common salt, of each, 2 lbs. Mix with suflBcient ground food for 100 sheep. These remedies should be continued regularly, as long as the wet weather or exposure exists. When the disease has been recognized, the animal should be isolated in a high and dry pasture, and should receive a laxative dose, as follows : No. 425. Sulphate of magnesia, \ lb. Oil of turpentine, 3 drachms. Mix for a drench, and give every two days, one-third of the quantity at a dose. When this has acted, the sheep should have common salt, sulphate of iron and wormwood, or gentian, mixed into a 382 Diseases of Sheep, lick. The food should be highly nutritious and abundant. An English writer, Mr. John Large, says the only remedy which will destroy the fluke in the liver is the following : — No. 426. Yellow resin, Ij drachms. Oil of turpentine, Ij oz. Calomel, 18 grains. Tincture of iodine, 80 drops. For three doses, one every morning, for three days, in gruel. INTESTDTAL WORMS. Sheep are liable to be infested with a number of varieties of intestinal worms, such as tapeworms, round worms, thread w^orms, etc. It is needless to describe and portray these in this work, as their specification belongs rather to the realm of the strictly scientific than of practical works. The symptoms they produce are in many instances very obscure, sometimes not at all manifest. It is no unusual sight to find a sheep apparently in excellent health and con- dition when slaughtered, to have many of these parasites in its stomach and intestines. In general terms, it may be said that the symptoms they give rise to are connected, first, with the digestive organs, and secondly, by sympathy, with the brain. Thus a loss of appetite, or a liking for dirt, old mortar on walls, etc., together with constipation and diarrhea alternating, irritation about the nose or the anus, indicated by the animal rubbing those parts, and a short, dry, or husky cough, are signs of irritation in the bowels, which may well come from worms. The head symptoms are, dizziness, as shown by staggering or falling, sometimes convulsions, impairment of the sight, running into obstacles, etc. The positive sign is to find some of the worms in the ex- crement ; or to discover them on opening the intestines, in which case it may very justly be presumed that they prevail Worms. 383 extensively in the flock, for these species of parasites rarely appear alone. Treatment. — The prevention of worms is best secured y allowing a liberal quantity of salt, and by giving, once a fortnight, a saline tonic, and bitter lick to the flock, as, for instance — No. 427. Common salt, 2 lbs. Sulphate of magnesia, 1 lb. Sulphate of iron, Powdered gentian, each ^ lb. Mix with ground fodder, for 75 to 100 sheep. Ordinary wood soot, as it can be collected from the chim- ney, is a very efficient vermifuge, often used, both in children and the lower animals. It may be mixed with salt, or sprinkled on the fodder. Another cheap and useful vermi- fuge, in the form of a drink, is — iSTo. 428. Quick lime, 1 lb. Sulphate of iron, 5 oz. Mix wJth five gallons of water, and give a pint twice a week. As a vermifuge in round and thread- worms, the shepherd may use — No. 429. Linseed oil, 2 oz. Oil of turpentine, ^ oz. For a drench. For the tapeworm, the following: — No. 430. Powdered areca nut, | to 1 drachm. Oil of male fern, 10 to 20 drops. Give in molasses and water, and follow next day with a purge. This is also very effective in the dog. THE SCAB— THE MANGE, OR ITCH, IIT SHEEP. Definition. — A highly contagious disease of the skin, caused by the presence of a parasite in or upon the skin. Causes, — Tliere are three different forms of parasites which produce the scab, the most common one in this 384 Diseases of Sheep. country being that known as the Dermatodeetes ovis. It dwells upon the skin, deriving its nouiishnient by sucking the fluids of the animal. Its bites cause severe irritation, and a discharge of serous fluid, M'hich dries on the surface into scabs, whence the disease derives its name. The notion that the scab ever arises from neglect, cold and wet, starvation, etc., is obsolete, as it would involve the spontaneous generation of the insect, which is absurd. That it is worse under such conditions is natural ; and that it oc- casionally arises without known cause is owing to the in- tensely contagious nature of the complaint, the astonishing fecundity of the insect, and its tenacity of life. A pasture which has been trod by a flock of scabby sheep has been known to give the disease to another flock three years after- ward. It is surprising that Col. Randall, in his able works on sheep husbandry, says that the scab is "comparatively little known" in the United States. On the contrary, it is a very common disease in New England, New York, and other sheep-growing centres. Symptoms. — The first and most prominent symptom is itchiness, which soon gives the animal a ragged appearance, tufts of wool being pulled out, leaving bare patches. If the skin is closely examined at these places, a small, reddish pimple will be noticed, upon the surface of which a smalLblis- ter or vesicle forms. Close examination may discover the insect in the vicinity. Under this irritation the sheep becomes exceedingly rest- less. It rubs itself against trees, fences and rocks, and bites and scratches itself with feet and teeth. The scabs are torn off, sores form and extend, the appetite is lost, the fleece is ruined, and the animal dies, worn out with the increasing torment. Treatment of the Scab. ■ 385 Treatment. — This consists either in dipping the sheep in a solution of some insecticide preparation ; or in rubbing such a preparation into its skin. As ointments are both expensive and troublesome, watery solutions are at all times preferable. The most effectual of all sheep dips are those containing arsenic. INIr. Finlay Dun speaks very highly of the follow- ing:— No. 431. Arsenic, > Pearlash, or soda ash, Sulphur, Soft soap, of each, 3 lbs. Mix in ten gallons of boiling water, and add cold water to make ohq hundred gallons. The sheep, except his head, of course, is held in this from half a minute to a minute, while it is well rubbed into his fleece. He is then lifted on to a slatted drainer, over a tub, and the wool well squeezed out; he isthen placed in a yard for a few hours, as it is unsafe to turn them on a pasture with this poisonous fluid dripping from them on the grass. Horses, cattle and sheep have been known to be poisoned by neglect of this precaution. The sulphur in the above receipt whitens and softens the fleece, and for a time keeps away the flies. One gallon of the mixture is the estimated amount used for each sheep. Mercurial ointment, and dips containing corrosive sublim- ate, we do not recommend, as they are too dangerous and difficult to control. Tobacco is a favorite American remedy, but it is rather dear. A good formula is the one above given, substituting for the arsenic a strong decoction of eight or ten pounds of tobacco. Carbolic acid, cresylic acid and the commercial oil of tar, properly diluted, are all effective and cheaj5, but have the disadvantage of discoloring the wool ; and if used too strong, 25 3H6 Diseases of Sheep. are apt to become absorbed, and lead to congestion of the lungs, and other poisonous effects. A New York breeder of experience recommends — No. 432. Soda, carbonate of, 6 lbs. Water, 6 gallons. Heat to a boiling point, and add — Oil of tar, 3 gallons. Add hot water sufficient for one hundred sheep. His general rule is to dilute the spirit of tar with twelve times its bulk of water. The following dip is popular in France. It is efficient, and does not stain the wool : — No. 433. Arsenic, 2 lbs. Sulphate of zinc, 10 lbs. Boil in sixty gallons of water, down to fifty, then add ten gallons. The following is said, by Prof. Simonds, to be so effective that two or three dressings with it will cure the most inveterate cases ; and as it does not require the troublesome preparation of a bath, it is very suitable to small flocks : — No. 434. Arsenic, Carbonate of potash, of each 2 oz. Boil in a quart of water till dissolved, and then add water to make one gallon. Then make the following infusion : — Digitalis leaves, 4 oz, Bt)iling "water, 1 gallon. When cold, add to the previous gallon. In using this, about half a pint is shaken from a bottle with a quill in the cork, over the back and sides of the sheep, the wool being parted, so that the fluid reaches the skin. For those who prefer ointments, we add several of the best preparations of the kind. They should be applied as fol- lows : Begin at the head of the sheep, and proceeding from between the ears, along the back, to the end of the tail, divide the wool in a furrow, till the skin can be touched, and let a ftnger, slightly dipped in the ointment be drawn along the bottom of the furrow. From this furrow similar ones must Treatment of the Scab. 387 be drawn along the shoulders and thighs, to the legs ; and others, parallel to these described, in number depending on the severity of the disease. No. 435. Mercurial ointment, 1 lb. Oil of turpentine, ^ pint. Eesin, 1 lb. Lard, 6 lbs. Dissolve the resin in the turpentine, mix the mercurial ointment with the lard by gentle heat, and when cold, rub the two mixtures together. No. 436. Oil of turpentine, 4 oz. Flowers of sulphur, 6 oz. Lard, 1 lb. Mix at gentle heat. This is a non-poisonous ointment. No. 437. Corrosive sublimate, 2 oz. Fish oil, 2 gallons. Rub the sublimate with a few ounces of the oil, until perfectly smooth, then mix thoroughly with the remainder. This is efficient, but, of course, poisonous. In all cases rigid isolation of the infected sheep should be practiced, and a close watch kept on the remainder of the flock, so that at the first signs of itchiness they shall receive prompt treatment. The Australian dip for scab is — No. 438. Tobacco leaves, Sulphur, of each, 1 lb. Water, 5 gallons. Boil the tobacco in the water, then add the sulphur. The sheep is dipped in this solution while quite hot, and re- tained in it four or five minutes, its head being from time to time thrust under also. The following is a non-poisonous, and tolerably efficient dip : — No. 439. Sofl soap, 1| lb. Carbonate of potash, J lb. Flowers of sulphur, 2j lbs. Boil for half an hour, in 20 gallons of water. This is enough for twenty sheep. It must be kept hot, and the animals should remain in it for full five minutes. 388 Diseases of Swine. CHAPTER yi. DISEASES OF SWINE. General Hemarhs on Diseases of Swine. Hog Cholera, so-called, ayid its varieties. Charbon in Swine — 3Ialignant Anthrax — Carbuncular Disease — White Bristle. Contagious Pneumo-enteritis ; Med Soldier ; the Blue Dis- ease ; Purples. Malignant Epizootic Catarrh. Apoplexy and Staggers. Coughs, Colds, Quinsy, and Inflammation of the Dungs. Diarrheal Diseases — Scours. Ague Cake — Milt Swelling — Splenitis. Leprosy. Trichinosis. Hydatids of the Kidneys — Kidney Worms — Lard Worms. Measles. The Mange, Itch, or Scab. Lice. GENERAL BEMAUKS ON DISEASES OF SWINE. If the remark is correct, which we quoted on the au- thority of leading agriculturists (page 342), that the sheep is unusually healthy in the United States, no one will say the same in reference to the hog. On the contrary, he is liable to so many and such extremely fatal diseases, that the loss from them is estimated at many millions of dollars an- nually, and in some sections of country they render tlie business of hog breeding a very precarious one. Considering the amount of capital involved, it is extra- ordinary that these diseases have not received closer study at the hands of experts. Several of them are contagious or Hog Cholera, 389 infectious to a high degree, and demand stringent quarantine, isolation or destruction of the herds, in order to confine their ravages. Nearly all these epidemics are of a rapidly debilitating, prostrating character, forbidding bleeding, and the use of depressing medicines. Their treatment is further compli- cated by the difficulty in giving a hog medicine. In fact, to undertake to administer a drench to a full-grown animal is a dangerous undertaking ; and it is desirable, therefore, to select such drugs as can be mingled with the food and drink without rendering the nourishment repulsive to the animal. And as he is not delicate, this can generally be accomplished. Like the sheep, the pig is very subject to parasitic diseases, partly owing to his uncleanly habits (which, however, be it said to his credit, are the results of his domestication, the wild pig being quite neat and tidy), but chiefly to his gross habit of body. Of these, the trichina, measles, kidney worm and mange are the most prominent examples. HOO CHOLEBA, SO CALLED. Of the diseases which produce the great mortality of swine, that called "Hog cholera" is most notorious. In fact, however, this name was applied to the disease simply because it is a malignant epidemic, destroying as the cholera destroyed in its first and second visits to the United States, not because the symptoms in any M'ay resemble those of Asiatic cholera. Three different forms of disease are popularly included under this name. AYe have described two of them, as they appear in the sheep, the ox and the horse, and we shall recognize their identical traits in the hog. The first of these is that known as charbon, or malignant anthrax (see page 276). In this country it is little to be dreaded in horses and sheep, but is quite destructive in oxen, and also in hogs. The second variety is almost peculiar to swine, and has been 390 Diseases of Swine. called by Dr. Klein, of London, "contagious pneumo- enteritis." The third is the malignant epizootic catarrh or influenza, ■which we have described in the sheep and horse (page 351), who suffer from it, at times severely, especially the former. We shall thus divide the maladies groujied popularly under the name " hog cholera " into — 1. Charbon, anthrax or sjilenic fever. 2. Contagious pneumo-enteritis. 3. Epizootic catarrh. And we shall endeavor to give such distinguishing traits that they may be recognized one from the other, without difficulty. CHARBON IN SWINE —MALIGNANT ANTHRAX— SPLENIC FEYER— WHITE BRISTLE. "VVe are aware ttiat an authority of weight in this country. Prof. James Law, has denied the existence of charbon in swine. His essay was published by the United States Com- missioner of Agriculture, and has had an extensive distribution. Nevertheless, both from considerable personal observation, and a careful study of the subject in authors, we believe Prof. Law to be in error. The only reason he gives for denying the existence of charbon is, that in the cases he witnessed the poison was not communicable to other animals. From his descriptions, it is clear that the disease he encountered, and for which he proposes the name " intestinal fever of swine," was contagious pneumo-enteritis, which we shall shortly describe. The hog we believe to be subject to true anthrax, quite as much as the ox and sheej}. The blood in these cases conveys the anthrax poison, as has been shown to be the case by M. Roche Lubin, in his admirable description of this disease, which he calls charhonneuse typhus ; for although his Charbon and Anthrax. 391 inoculation failed in clogs, it was not the eame with some sheep. They died a few days afterward, presenting all the symptoms and pathological lesions of true charbon fever (quoted by JSIr. H. D. Richardson, Domestio Pigs, p. 123). We shall draw clearly the distinction between charbon and contagious pneumo-enteritis, as laid down by the distinguished recent investigator, Dr. Klein, of London, in the Proceedings of the Royal Society for 1878. True Charbon, Period of incubation or lat- ency, from a few hom-s to three days. Easily transmissible to other species of animals. Spleen always enlarged and often broken down. Blood after death, dark and fluid. Bacillus anthracis in the blood. Contagious Pneumo-enteritis. Period of incubation from two to five days and more. Rarely and with difficulty transmitted to other species. Spleen rarely enlarged, or otherwise changed. Blood after death of ordin- ary appearance. No bacillus anthrads in the blood, but numberless bacilli in the serum of thorax and abdomen. Lungs and bowels always both inflamed. Cough always present. The red or purple color diffused over the surface, and of an erysipelatous appear- ance. "With the above table before him, it will not be i:)ossible for any ordinarily careful observer to confound the two diseases. No doubt there is a strong analogy between them, as, in both, diverse species of the same vegetable organism are the exciting cause of the contagion. Lungs and bowels frequent- ly not implicated. Cough may be absent. The discoloration local, and of a true carbuncular appear- ance. 392 Diseases of Swine. The most common form of anthrax in pigs is that popu- larly known as " white bristle." The poison localizes itself in a carbuncular swelling, usually on the throat, presenting the features of color already described. The bristles on the spot turn white and brittle, whence the name just given. The swelling extends inward, involving the windpipe and gullet, causing difficulty of breathing and swallowing, and finally death by suffocation, in convulsions. In addition to this we occasionally see the true apoplectic or splenic form of charbon, and the variety which attacks the tongue and mouth, both of which have already been de- scribed as they occur in other animals (see pages 278, 344) ; but as they are of rare occurrence in pigs, and present no symptoms beyond those already given, except such as are owing to their localities, we need not describe them at length. They are both very acute and rapidly fatal, the apoplectic form often killing "like a shot," literally in less than a minute. The flesh of all animals dying of any form of this disease is poisonous, and the blood and discharges capable not only of spreading the disease among others of the same species, but also, if inoculated into the human system, of bringing on that mortal malady, "malignant pustule." Treatment! — This has been already discussed when speaking of charbon in cattle and braxy in sheep (see pages 279, 345) and we need not repeat here the instructions there given. They apply, with such modifications as the size and habits of the animal render necessary, to swine. And as both charbon and contagious pneumo-enteritis, which will be next described, are due to a contagion essentially alike in character, we shall include the treatment of anthrax under that of the latter complaint. -0 o JO H m o en m 33 7Z (J) X 33 m (/) o CO > CD o 03 n > o O CO m Forms of Hog Cholera. 393 CeUTAGIOUS PNEXTMO-ENTERITIS. Definition. — A specific, contagious inflammation of the lungs and bowels, accompanied with red or purple blotches on the skin. This is the disease known in Ireland as "red soldier," and in this country as the "purples" and "the blue disease." It 13 the most common and fatal form of the epidemic diseases classed under the popular name "hog cholera." Causes. — The predisposing causes of the disease are ex- tremes of temperature ; wet seasons ; damp, low-lying, swampy feeding grounds ; drinking water impregnated w4th decaying animal or vegetable substances j close, filthy styes ; und above all, a sudden increase of concentrated, heating, highly-nutritious food, producing a plethoric state of the system, and a blood surcharged with incompletely trans- formed constituents. Such are the acknowledged predisposing causes ; whether they can originate the disease is a debatable question. In our opinion they cannot ; they can only lay the system open to an easy subjection to the subtle poison of the malady, which is floating in the atmosphere. This poison is almost certainly a vegetable germ, of extreme minuteness (see page 27G) ; and if it is such, the real cause of the disease can be contagion only, for the "spontaneous" origin of any form of animal or vegetable life has never yet been demonstrated. When the disease once enters a herd, its contagious character cannot be doubted, and all ages, sexes and condi- tions fall equally a prey to it. The precise nature of the contagion may now be said to have been definitely determined. The researches of Dr, Klein, in 1878, already alluded to, prove that pneumo- enteritis, is, like anthrax, due to a Bacillus, a rod-like, minute vegetable organism, found, however, not in the blood, 394 Diseases of Swine. as in anthrax, but in the serous fluids and tissues. The Bacillus is in many observable respects similar to the Bacillus subtilis, seen in infusions of hay, but no doubt dif- fers from it in its life history. Dr. Klein applied the crucial test, by raising crops of these bacilli in fluids free from all other organisms, and having thus cultivated them through several generations, he inoculated healthy pigs with this fluid, with the result that in a few days they were taken down and died with well-marked pneumo-enteritis, present- ing all the symptoms of the disease, including its contagious nature. [Proceedings of the Royal Society, 1878.) S3^pt0IUS. — As in the other animals, the symptoms of the disease vary with the part of the animal attacked and the malignancy of the epidemic. To this fact we M'ould especially call the reader's attention, so that he will not become confused by the varying aspects of the complaint. "We shall describe them singly. 1. The ordinary Erysipelatous Form. This is probably the most common of all the forms of the disease. The animal at first is dull, loses his appetite, lies down and moves unwillingly. He hangs his head, and sometimes makes efibrtsto vomit. The bowels at this time are generally constipated, the excrement being hard and dark colored ; cough and difficult urination. The next day, or in a few hours, even, the characteristic symptom of the disease shows itself. This consists in the appearance of dark red or purple blotches, passing into a bluish-black color. Once seen, they cannot be mistaken. Their most frequent seats are the ears, throat, neck, breast, and inside the fore legs. If he is a white hog, the discolor- ation is very visible. With these there is often a discharge from the nose, of a dark, purple fluid. Soon his breathing becomes panting and labored, he is palsied in his hind Contagious Pneumo-Enteritis. 395 quarters, and if he is driven up, runs reeling, with his hind legs and his head dropped to the ground. At this stage, a fetid diarrhea sometimes sets in. The fatal termination is reached in one to three days. 2. The Form of Malignant Sore Throat. This occurs when the poison, instead of expending its vio- lence on the cellular tissues underneath the skin, attacks that beneath the lining membrane of the throat. The general symptoms at the commencement are the same ; and the appearance of the throat has that same deep red, passing into dark purple hue, which we have just noted iu the erysipelatous variety. But the obstruction to the func- tions of breathing and swallowing naturally produce a train of characteristic symptoms not seen in the former case. There are attempts to vomit, difficulty in swallowing, and labored breathing from the first, the sensation of choking being so distressing that the animal will sit on its haunches, like a dog, gasping fcr breath, opening its mouth wdde, and protruding a livid and swollen tongue. Sometimes the swelling about the larynx is so sudden and considerable that the animal is choked to death in less than an hour, and before hardly any other symjitom has had time to manifest itself (oedema of the larynx). Treatment. — When we turn to the important question of treatment, we find two parties, the one maintaining that no remedy has been or can be found for the disease ; the other equally positive that treatment is often successful. The former are the scientific men, who too often form their idea of a disease from a theoretical study of it only ; the latter are practical men of moderate education, who have tried this or that receipt with satisfaction to themselves, but lack a broad experience. We fully believe that very many cases which would ctther- 396 Diseases of Swine. wise die can be cured by medical attention, and we are certain that tlie progress of the contagion can very often be checked in a herd by the same means. Let us suppose that what we have described as the predis- posing causes have been carefully removed, and we turn to look for an agent to check the development of the virus. There are two such which present themselves with very large and positive testimony to their value. They are sulphate of iron (green vitriol, or copperas) and chlorate of potash. The sulphate of iron is at once the cheapest and the most effective of the u-on salts used in veterinary medicine. It is antiseptic, and vitally invigorating ; and it has been proven to have a sjjecific effect in increasing the firmness of the spleen and hastening the chemical changes of the blood. Without any knowledge of these properties, it is the chief and almost only important agent in most of the receipts which have been found actually efficacious in the disease of hogs which we are describing. Thus, one " infallible remedy," given by a Kentucky farmer, is — No. 440. Sulphate of iron, 1 lb. Warm water, 3 gallons. Apply milk- warm to the skin of the aflPected animal, by repeated sponging or mopping. A somewhat celebrated recipe of Prof. J. B. Turner, of Illinois, is — No. 441. Flowers of sulphur. Sulphate of iron. Madder, of each, 2 lbs. Black antimony, Nitrate of potash, of each, J lb. Arsenic, 2 oz. Mix with 12 gallons of slop, and give a pint to each hog, this quan- tity being for 100 hogs. Another, from the same authority, is^- Contagious Pneumo-Enteritis. CD 7 No, 442. Common salt, 4 lbs. Black antimony, Flowers of sulphur, Sulphate of iron, of each, 1 lb. Wood ashes, unleached, 1 peck. Mix thoroughly together, and put in a trough, where the hogs can eat it at will. If either of these is used before the hog is attacked, Prof. Turner sajs it will positively prevent the disease; and given freely in the early stages, it is curative. Another receipt, praised by Illinois farmers of large ex- perience, and differing little practically from the above, is — No. 443. Sulphate of iron, 2 lbs. Soft soap, 2 gallons. Boil with several gallons of water. This is to be added to slop enough for fifty hogs ; and as they come to the troughs containing it about two pounds of soda should be added, to have the slop foaming as they drink it. This dose should be repeated every three or four days, for three times. The second remedy is the chlorate of potash. Prof, ^yil- liams says of the use of this in charbon : "A large ex- perience has taught me that the chlorate of potash is superior to all other medicines." Unfortunately, it is too dear for general use, costing at wholesale twenty-five to thirty cents per pound. Yet in special cases it may be used. No. 444. Chlorate of potash, 1 to 2 drachms. Water, J pint. Give in milk or slop, 3 or 4 times a day. The question of local treatment is an important one. It is recommended to foment the swollen parts with hot water saturated with sulphate of iron at the outset. If gangrene has come on, equal parts of turpentine and sweet oil will have some chance of stimulating the surrounding tissues. In the carbuncular variety free incisions, and dressing with car- bolic acid lotion, and cauterization with the hot iron, are 398 Diseases of Swine. spoken of. But as the disease is a general one of the blood, such medicines can have no great effect. If the pig cannot be persuaded to drink, it is not worth while to attempt to drench him ; rather, he should be killed and buried at once, as a hopeless case and sure to spread the infection. Much has been said in favor of the smart weed, Polygonuvi pundatum, as a preventive remedy. It is given freely, in strong decoction. This plant has long been familiar to phy- sicians, as a useful remedy in sore mouth, salivation, old ulcers, etc., and may well have some value in charbon. A spoonful of turpentine, every few days, is used in Western New York as a preventive ; and the free employ- ment of alkalies, as common unleached wood ashes, is, no doubt, of advantage. The ashes can be sprinkled in the slop, or corn can be boiled in water in which a few handfuls have been thrown. Clean wood soot, from a chimney, or finely powdered charcoal are also of considerable efficacy. Any of these should be given two or three times a week, to hogs, when this form of "cholera" is in the neighborhood. Professor Law advises to separate a hog at once who shows any sign of sickness ; and if the symptoms of this disease appear, to kill and bury him forthwith, in order to prevent contagion. If, however, it is a valuable animal, and it is desired to treat him medically, Prof. Law would commence with a moderate purge, two or three ounces of castor oil, or a drachm or two of rhubarb. As soon as it operates, give — No. 445. Nitrate of potash, Bisulphite of soda, of each 20 grains. Mix for a dose, twice or three times a day. Charcoal should be given in the food or drink, and if the bowels become tender and swollen, twenty drops of turpen- tine, from time to time. M. Roche Lubin, an eminent French veterinarian, to Forms of Hog Cholera. 399 whom we have before referred, attributes the prevalence of the malady to faulty sanitary arrangements. The scourge will disappear when pigs are well cared for, placed in proper situations, with protection from the sun and rain when they need it, well ventilated styes, and with clean bedding, often renewed. They should have free access to plenty of clean, fresh water, and their food should be properly regulated in quantity, and wholesome in quality. During the summer they should have from time to time, say once a week, some salt and nitre in their slop ; and both bitter and acid mixtures will be advantageous. When an animal is attacked, M, Lubin gives — No. 446. Powdered camphor, 10 grains. Nitrate of potash, 1 drachm. Calomel, 5 grains. To be mixed with gruel, or given in a boiled potato, three times a day. After the first day the calomel may be omitted. The red blotches should be rubbed with vinegar, and the drink soured with it. Major John S. Mellon, of St. Louis, has written a very sensible little treatise on this form of hog cholera. He thinks it arises either from contagion, or else from feeding with a too exclusive grain diet. His rules for its management are judicious ; they are substantially as follows : When the disease attacks a herd — 1. Separate the sick from the well. 2. Give both a free range in a woody pasture, if possible. 3. Place within reach of both pulverized stone coal, or charcoal, and salt. 4. Give them free access to plenty of water and clay, to wallow in. 5. Feed both, particularly the sick, with plenty of turnips; or, if these are not to be had, with potatoes, artichokes, or any other roots they like. Corn should be withheld. He goes so far as to say that every hog thus treated, and 400 Diseases of Swine. not too sick to eat a full feed of turnips, will certainly get well, and that no well liog, thus treated, and fed on turnips, will take the disease, even by contagion. Mr. Mellon believes that a too highly stimulating diet is the chief cause of the presence of both hog cholera and Texas cattle disease, in the Mississippi valley. Hence, acting on this principle, he claims to have cured the latter disease also "very promptly and certainly, by an exclusively watery diet, the best and most certain remedy being young corn in the milk. There is no danger of excess. The diseased herd may be safely turned into a field of young corn, and left to cure themselves, which they will do in a few days." If green corn cannot be procured, any other succulent food will answer the purpose. This opinion of the general causation of these diseases is largely correct, and deserves the attention of both hog and cattle breeders in the Mississippi valley and elsewhere. MALIGNANT EFIZOOTIO CATABBH. This disease, which, as we have seen (p. 351), is the most fatal of all among sheep in this country, is also ex- tremely destructive among hogs. For example, in the years 1875 and 1876 it swept over Missouri, Illinois, and the neighboring States, killing a very large percentage of swine in that section, and attracting general attention by its un- checked devastations. In regard to its causes, they are to be divided, as In all of this class of diseases, into those which render the animal susceptible to the poison, 'and the poison itself. Of the latter we have no positive knowledge. It is believed to be a float- ing germ, which develops and multiplies with extreme rapidity when it finds a soil which suits. Such a soil is presented by the mucous lining membrane of hogs which have been kept in foul styes, and whose skins are dirty and Epizootie Catarrh, 401 unhealthy, and thus incapable of performing the acts of perspiration. Also in those where the perspiration has been suddenly checked by exposure to showers, sudden changes of . temperature, the chill night air, etc. By these means an excessive labor is forced on the inner membranes, and they are weakened and predisposed to disease. It has constantly been noticed that clean hogs, well washed, well housed, and well fed, hardly ever succumb to this disease, or, indeed, contract it at all. Symptoms. — As explained under this disease in sheep, the symptoms vary with the part of the mucous membrane most involved. This is even more noticeable in the hog. The first form is where the membrane which, commencing at the nostrils, continues to the windpipe and lungs, is the main seat of disease. Here the earliest symptoms are a short, hoarse cough, hoarseness in the squeal, and a difficulty of breathing, indicated by a panting motion of the flanks, and by holding the head in a peculiar, stretched and some- what drooping position. There is often some running from the nose, a slow gait, tottering or stiff, and signs of fever. Many make efforts to vomit ; generally there is constipation, but at times diarrhea. The second form has a short cough, but less marked, and there is less oppression in breathing. There is more decided weakness or palsy in the hind quarters, and the gait is more tottering. But as here the power of the poison is spent on the lining of the stomach and bowels, there is at first cos- tiveness, followed by a profuse and fetid diarrhea. The pain and soreness of the intestines are indicated by the animal arching its back, especially the loin portion, often to a very high degree. Together with these symptoms, there may be affection of the brain, indicated by partial or entire blindness, a stagger- ing gait and aimless movements ; or a sympathy of the 26 402 Diseases of Swine. lymphatic system, shown by enlarged glands and scrofulous ulcerations in different parts of the body. The duration of the disease is from fi ve to fifteen days. In examining the dead body the lining membranes of the nose and upper throat are always inflamed ; from them, the red- ness and swelling extend, in the first form, down the wind- pipe to the lungs, which are generally found inflamed and partially solidified. In the second form, the lining mem- branes of the intestines are generally inflamed and de- generated; the spleen or milt is nearly always enlarged, dark and soft ; and the liver is generally diseased. Watery exudations in the belly and chest are also very common. Treatment. — Dr. H. J. Detmers, of Missouri, who has made a careful study of this disease, expresses the opinion that a great many sick animals can be saved by proper medical treatment. To accomplish this desirable result they must be separated from the herd, and provided with a clean, dry and well ventilated resting place, where they can have pure air, clean water and good food. Each animal should take, as early in the disease as practicable, the following emetic : — Ko. 447. Powdered white hellebore, 15 to 20 grains. Milk, ^ pint. Mix for a full-grown hog. Any hog not desperately sick will readily take this. "When this has acted, and a couple of hours have elapsed,' give two or three grains of tartar emetic, if the disease is principally in the lungs ; or the same amount of calomel, if it is in the bowels ; administering the medicine on a piece of boiled potato. This should be repeated two or three times a day, for several days, or until a change for the better is wit- nessed. Externally, the lungs, in the one form, and the abdomen, in Epizootic Catarrh. 403 the other, is to be rubbed with the following blistering oint- ment, as soon as the feverish symptoms abate : — No. 448. Powdered cantharides, 1 oz. Olive oil, 4 oz. Heat over a moderate fire, for half an hour. , If the first application fails to produce a good blister, apply it again the next day. When convalescence begins, give from ten to twenty grains of the sulphate of iron every day for a few days ; and if the lungs have been much affected, add to the dose thirty or forty grains of carbonate of potash. Of other modes of treatment than those spoken of above, that recommended by Prof. N. S. Townshend, of Ohio, should be mentioned. This careful observer recommends, when the attack commences with copious and dark dis- charges from the bowels, to give at once — ■ No. 449. Podophyllin, 20 grains. Bicarbonate of soda, 2 drachms. In a boiled potato, or in milk. If constipation is present, he would give — • No. 450. Castor oil, 1 oz. Oil of turpentine, 1 drachm. In milk or gruel. He believes that in many cases the function of the liver is ^suspended, and that thus the blood is poisoned by the reten- tion of effete matters. These active purges are calculated to excite the organ into activity. APOPLEXY AND STAGGERS. The hog, especially when phlethoric and well fed, is liable to congestion of the brain, which may pass into actual effusion or apoplexy. In congestion only, which is popularly termed "staggers," the animal is dull and stupid, the eyes are red, the bowels 404 Diseases of Swine. constipated and the pulse hard and quick. These symptoms may pass off, or may increase, leading to a period of excite- ment from increased pressure on the brain. The animal runs to and fro, often in a circle, hitting against objects, as if blind ; the breathing is laborious, and he may fall down in an unconscious condition. In other cases, the effusion on the brain, or the apoplectic stroke, takes place without these premonitory symptoms. The hog suddenly drops, as if struck on the head with a hammer, the limbs stiffen, the breathing is hard and snorting, and a froth exudes from the mouth. In either case the treatment is by promptly dashing cold water over the animal, and especially pouring it from a height of eight or ten feet on the head. The bowels should be stimulated by an active purgative injection, as — No. 451. Sulphate of magnesia, 4 oz. Oil of turpentine, 2 drachms. Soap suds. J pint. Mix, for an injection. Bleeding may be performed from the ear, or from the jugular, if it can be reached. But it is of no great benefit; and cutting a slit to the skull, and rubbing the wound with salt, as well as liniments, blisters, etc., are all of no use whatever. The cold douche and the active injection are the remedies. COUGHS, COLDS, QUINSY, AND INTLAMMATION OF THE LTTNGS. These associated diseases of the breathing organs are as common in the jjig as in other domestic animals. For snuffles, or catarrh in the head, little is needed but stabling in a clean, dry pen, and cleanliness. There is, however, a chronic form of nasal gleet, called in some -parts of the country '' blue nose," which is said to be incurable, contagious, and very similar to glanders in the horse. We Coughs and Colds. 405 have never seen a case of this, and doubt its identity with glanders. The nose is said to thicken and become twisted, or out of shape, and the discharge from it to be bloody, or to become so on slight exertion. The owner would be on the safe side to destroy an animal thus diseased. An ordinary cold in a hog is called, in some States, a " rising of the lights." There is no propriety, whatever, in bleeding and purging for it, and folloMang with tartar emetic or calomel, as the common run of books advise. Let the animal be well housed and fed, mustard flour moistened and rubbed into the throat and chest, and a tonic of sulphate of iron given. If these do not bring about rapid improvement, an ounce of tar should be given daily, by putting it well back in the mouth, by means of a narrow wooden paddle. When the inflammation extends to the lungs, causing pneumonia, the symptoms are : loss of appetite, quick and labored breathing, shivering and severe cough. This requires the same or greater care in stabling and diet ; while, as a medicine, the following may be administered : — No. 452. Nitrate of potash, Bisulphite of soda, of each 2 drachms. Mix, and give in a pint of gruel. ' Mustard or a blister to the chest is also of service. Quinsy, or Strangles. — The inflammation of the glands in the throat (the tonsils), known by these names, is quite com- mon, and often fatal in hogs, through the rapid sufibcation it causes. The symptoms are : difficulty in breathing and swallowing, swelling under the neck and lower jaw, protrusion of the tongue, and slavering from the mouth. The disease is usually so rapid that treatment is of little avail . A copious injection should be given at the outset (such as No. 451) ; the pig should be cast and firmly held, while a number of scarifications are made in the skin of the throat, 406 Diseases of Swine. over the swelling, with a sharp-pointed knife, just deep enough to draw blood freely, and these should be fomented with cloths wrung out of hot water. Internally, the most reliable remedy is turpentine. Give it in swill, if the hog can swallow, in doses of two teaspoon- fuls in a bowl of gruel ; or, if he cannot, fasten a feather to the end of a stick, dip it in a mixture of half turpentine and half oil, and with it swab the inside of the throat as far as can be conveniently reached. DIAHEHEAL DISEASES. Scouring or diarrhea is an affection chiefly of quite young pigs, in the first week or two of life, and often proves fatal to them. Its cause is usually the bad quality of the sow's milk. This should be amended by giving her a change of diet, and avoiding dry and sjjoiled corn and musty food. The pen should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected daily, as the odor of the diarrheal excrement tends to keep alive the^ disease. The treatment must be largely directed to the sow. Her food should be changed, and she should be given the follow- ing:— No. 453. Fenugreek, powdered, Aniseed, " of each 2 lbs. Gentian, " 1 lb. Carbonate of soda, 2 oz. Chalk, powdered, 2 lbs. Give a tablespoonful of this in the food, every time she is fed. Coal ashes should be placed in the pen, for the pigs to root in. Oats, wheat and barley, ground together, make an excellent food for the sow at this time. Charcoal and salt, in small quantities, may be given. Swelling of the Spleen. 407 AGUE CAKE— MILT SWELLmG— SPLENITIS. Like cattle, liogs which live in swampy, malarious dis- tricts are quite liable to an enlargement of the spleen or milt, and a failure to fatten, in consequence of it. It is also believed to be brought on at times by over-feeding, with little or no exercise, as in the case of "show" pigs. In France this disease is called "la ratille" and has received considerable attention, as it so often interferes with the fat- tening of hogs for market. In itself, it is not often, or at all, productive of fatal consequences. Symptoms. — There is a perceptible loss of condition; the pig eats, but his food "does him no good," as the breeders say ; his appetite is rather capricious and irregular ; he is dull and languid. AVhen further advanced, he is noticed to lie nearly or quite always on one side, and in walking leans toward one side, sometimes cringing and bending over, as if the erect position gave internal pain. Treatment. — This should begin with a brisk purge. Twenty grains of podophyllin, or ten of jalap and ten of calomel, may be enclosed in a boiled potato, and given fasting. The diet should be lowered, and when possible the animal put to graze on a dry upland. The French Veterinarians praise highly, especially in cases where this complaint comes on while fattening, and interferes with that process, the following : — Ko. 454. Wormwood leaves, Liverwort " of each, ^ lb. Boil slowly in a gallon of soft water, for half an hour. This may be given in slop, in doses of half a pint to a pint daily. The liverwort is the Hepatica triloba, and is found in most parts of this country. • In preparing to fatten after an attack, it must be done 408 Diseases of Swine. gradually ; and the special advice is given to feed at regular intervals, and always remove ichatever food is left from each meal. LEPROSY. Under this name the French and English veterinarians have described a disease to which hogs are subject, especially in very hot seasons. Its tendency is fatal, and it is believed to be contagious. Owing to the absurd habit in this country of calling all epidemics among hogs by the name of "cholera," and the very superficial way in which the maladies of the animal have been studied, we cannot posi- tively say whether this so-called leprosy has a foothold in the United States or not, but some descrij)tions have led us to think that it has. Ca.lises. — These are want of cleanliness, absence of fresh air and clean water, foul feeding, and general neglect of the animal's health ; a second cause is contagion from those already suffering. Symptoms. — According to a learned French veterinarian, M. Dupray D' Emportes, one of the very earliest symptoms of this complaint is the formation of a small tumor or blister, like a stye, on the edge of the eye. Other such lilisters apjDear soon, around the mouth, in the throat, under the jaws, and finally over the whole body. Great prostration ac- companies the disease ; the head is held down ; the whole frame inclines toward the ground ; the animal moves un- willingly, and with pain ; food is refused, and loss of flesh is rapid. Death follows, from emaciation and exhaustion. Any reader at all versed in medicine will see that these are not the symptoms of leprosy, but rather of some form of malignant pemphigus. • But its exact determination we leave to those who have opportunities to observe it. PAUASITES OK A.Ni.MALS. Trichina. . 409 Treatment. — The treatment recommended is, to place the animal in a cool, clean, well ventilated stye, with plenty of fresh water for him to drink and bathe in. For a medicine, No. 454. Flour of sulphur. 2 oz. Nitrate of potash, 1 drachm. Give in a bran mash, twice a day. His skin should be cleaned with soap and water, and the /sores dressed with tar ointment. TEICHINOSIS. The Trichina spiral's is a minute parasite that infests the flesh of several animals, especially the hog ; and as it is very tenacious of life, it is, from eating pork, occasionally trans- ferred to man, in whom it produces serious and sometimes fatal illness. The trichina is said to be not uncommon in American pork, and in several European markets our exportations of this staple have met with less favor on this account; but the facts are that German pork is quite as much infected as our own. The trichina is believed to inhabit the body of animals at all stages of its existence; and hence swine fed exclusively on vegetable diet are not liable to them ; while, on the other hand, those permitted to eat the offal from slaughter houses, carron, rats, mice and decaying animal matter generally, are usually more or less infected with trichina, and form a dan- gerous article of food for the table. The trichina is exceedingly small, about the twelfth or fifteenth of an inch in length, and in its. miniature state lives in minute cysts in the muscles. They increase with amazing rapidity, several hundred thousand congregating in an ounce of flesh ; and when thus numerous, they give rise in man to symptoms closely resembling those of typhoid fever. The mature worm escapes into the intestine, where they pair, the 410 Diseases of Sicine. female bringing forth a numerous brood of larvae, who find their way to the muscles. The hog does not appear to suffer from the trichina ; and its presence in his body can therefore only be ascertained by a microscopic examination of the flesh. No remedy has been discovered capable of destroying trichinae, when once encysted in the muscles. The free administration of ergot has the most to be said in its favor. But as the trichinae are effectually killed by thorough cook- ing, it is a prudent precaution to insist that pork, in all its forms, when served for food, should be thoroughly well done, HYDATIDS OF THE KIDNEYS— KIDNEY WORMS— LARD WORMS. The kidneys of hogs, and the fat which surrounds them, are liable to become the home of various parasites. One of the most frequent of these is the lard-worm, Stephanurus dentatus, which is an inch or an inch and a half in length, and inhabits by preference the fat about the spare ribs, but is found in all parts of the body of swine. It is, however, more a curiosity than a subject for medical treat- ment, as it is not known that it causes any serious symptoms in the animal. The kidney itself has been known to be inhabited by a larger worm, of similar appearance, called the Eustrongylus gigas. It is not found in the substance of the kidney itself, but in the pelvis or hollow curved portion in which the secretion of urine takes place. Various symptoms are j^opularly attributed to "kidney worms," especially a weakness or partial palsy of the hinder limbs, inclination to lie down, and awkwardness in the gait. The cure is said to be to pour a tablespoonful of turpentine across the loins or small of the back daily, for several days. It is quite uncer- tain, however, that in such cases there is any worm present, Kidney Worms. 411 as we have no positive symptoms of its existence in the kidney. Of a much more serious character are hydatids or bladder worms in the kidneys. These differ from those shortly to be described as causing " measly " pork, being much larger, a?nd of unknown develoj)ment. A number of cases are recorded by Prof. N. S. Townshend, in the Annual Reports of the Ohio Agricultural Society, for 1875, where the sudden death of hogs, with few and obscure symptoms, was found to be owing to the presence of these parasites. They were from one to one and a half inches in diameter, and the kidney and bladder contained blood. If it were possible to ascertain their existence in the kidney, steady, moderate doses of tur- pentine would be the most proniLsing treatment. Perhaps the altered character of the urine whicli Prof. Townshend notes, would have led a closer observer than the farmer who owned the pigs to a suspicion of the nature of the complaint. MEASLES. The name "measles" has been given to a jjarasitic disease of swine, not that it resembles in the most remote degree the familiar malady known in the human species by that name, but because the flesh of hogs so affected bears a fancied resemblance to the human skin with the eruption of measles on it. This appearance of pork is owing to the presence of num- erous small cysts, about the size of a grain of barley, scattered through the muscular and other tissues. These cysts, when closely examined, are found to contain a small worm, called the bladder worm, folded up in a coil, and composed of numerous segments, each of which segments is, in fact, an independent individual. What is more remarkable is that the minute worm is nothing else than the miniature form of that redoubtable occasional inhabitant of the human intes- 412 Diseases of Swine, tines, the tapeworm, "When measly pork is eaten, not sufficiently cooked to destroy these parasites, one or more of them develops in the human bowels into a row of creatures, commonly believed to be one worm, often ten, twenty or thirty feet in length. The cysts do not seem materially to injure the hog during life, though their presence can occasionally be detected by examining the lining membrane of the eye, or that under the tongue. In most if not all cases the animal swallows the eggs, which develop into cysts, by feeding on human excre- ment, or on pastures w^here this excrement has been used for manure. As this is the evident means of the propagation of the parasite, the preventive measures demanded are self- evident. The symptoms which are attributed to measles are a cough, discharge from the nose, running from the eyes, weakness of the hind legs, and general debility. On the skin there will be found a number of small watery pustules of a reddish color. The treatment recommended is to give small doses of sulphur and saltpetre, daily for several weeks together with a liberal supply of wholesome, nutritious, and easily-digested food. THE MANGE, ITCH, OB SCAB. In spite of their generally filthy habits, this is a less serious disease in pigs than in sheep (see page 383). True mange in them is caused by the presence of the Sarcoptes suis. It is transmissible to man, and for that reason, as well as for the annoyance it gives the hog, it should be removed without delay. This can be successfully accomplished by first soaping the animal well with soft soap, and after this has been on an hour or so, washing it off with warm w^ater. After he has dried, one of the following ointments should be rubbed in :— Treatment of Mange. 413 No. 455. Flowers of sulphur, 4 oz. Oil of turpentine, 1 oz. Lard, 8 oz. Mix thoroughly. Or: No. 456. Powdered stavesacre, 2 oz, Olive oil, 1 o^ Lard, 8 o^ Mix together. Or the following wash : — No. 457. Flowers of sulphur, 2 Ihfi Quick lime, 1 lb. Water, « S ga«'«9. Boil together, stirring continually, until the iogredientj^ &,r O z > O c m Canker of the Ear. 423 This is to be applied one day, washed oflp the next with soft soap and warm water, and then the ointment rubbed in again, and so on until three applications have been made and washed off. The dog should then be well, but the process must be repeated if the itching returns. Another useful mange ointment is — Take Tanner's oil 1 quart. Spirits of turpentine, 1 gill. Flour of sulphur, half pound. Mix and use as the last. If the dog is in poor condition, it will add to the certainty of this treatment if he is given two or three drops of Fow- ler's solution of arsenic, two or three times a day, for a week or two. This has a specific effect on the hair and skin of animals. CANKER OF THE EAR. Causes. — Canker generally arises from some local injury to the ear, by hitting it against an object, or by rubbing it against the collar, chain, etc. The itching leads the animal to flap the ear violently, and scratch it with his paw. This aggravates the sore until it becomes intractable and malig- nant. An ulcer is formed, with a foul odor, and may extend into the ear and deeper parts, until the dog has to be killed as a last resort. - Treatment. — As a rule, canker is certainly and easily cured, even when it has progressed to a considerable extent. The following directions must be strictly carried out. Have a light cap made of calico or merino, covering both ears, and fastened under the chin, so that the dog cannot flap or scratch his ears. Wash the ulcers on the flaps clean every day, with soap and warm water, and after the washing, apply this oint- ment : — Take Mercurial ointment, 1 drachm. Powdered camphor, 2 drachms. Oxide of zinc ointment, 1 oz. Mix them well. 424 Diseases of Dogs. This is for the flap of the ear. But the real seat of the disease is inside the ear, and for that we must use the fol- lowing canker wash : — Take Lead water, Pure soft water, equal parts. Two persons will be required to apply this properly. The one must hold the muzzle of the dog with one hand, and have the root of the ear in the hollow of the other, and be- tween the first finger and the thumb. The other must then pour the liquid into the ear; half a teaspoonful will usually be sufficient. After one ear is done, let it be covered closely with the flap, and the other side of the head turned upward, without releasing the dog. This is to be repeated three times daily, and the result will certainly be a complete cure. To hasten this, however, it is well to give the dog very little meat, and to keep him on a vegetable diet. INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES. Causes. — Dogs are quite subject to inflamed eyes, from dust, injury and sympathetic affections. Treatment. — Search should be made for any foreign body and this removed if present. We recommend dogs to be chloroformed for this operation. When the inflammation is a symptom of some other disease, it is best to let it alone, as it will disappear as the dog recovers. In other cases, a square of old linen may be doubled several times and may be wet with one of the following lotions, with which the eyes may be freely bathed : — Eye Washes. Take Laudanum, 20 drops. Camphor water, 1 oz. Or, Take Sugar of lead, 30 grains. Rain water, 1 pint. Fleas and Lice. 425 When the inflammation has subsided by the use of these cooling washes, but a chronic redness and soreness remains, the following may be brushed into the eye with a soft feather, or camel's hair brush, when the lids are separated : — Take Nitrate of silver, 1 grain. Kaia water, 1 oz. A few applications of this, once daily, ought to effect a cure. FLEAS AND LICE. For these vermin, almost sure to appear on dogs at some time, we recommend — SnufF, 1 teaspoonful. Whisky, 1 pint. For bathing. Or the animal may be rubbed with castor oil, or kerosene oil, and washed the next day. Persian insect powder scat- tered in the kennel, or flour of sulphur, used in the same manner, will keep fleas at a distance. 426 Diseases of Fowls. CHAPTER yill. DISEASES OF FOWLS. General Remarks. Diarrhcea. Fowl Cholera. The Gapes. The Rouj). Leg Weakness and Loss of Feathers. Chicken Lice and Fleas. GENERAL REMARKS. There is a great deal of money to be made in keeping poultry, if only they can be maintained in a healthy condi- tion. Indeed, when their eggs, their feathers, and the price of their flesh for food are all taken into account, they pay better for outlay and attention than any other domestic animal. In this we do not refer to the extravagant prices which fancy breeds and their eggs bring in the market, but to ordinary varieties. The drawback to all this is their peculiar liability to dis- eases, which carry them oif in great numbers. But we are backed by the opinion of the best veterinarians in this and other countries, when we say that by intelligent attention these diseases can be prevented, and this mortality checked. To attain this result, the chief points are cleanliness, pure water, the frequent use of disinfectants (especially the sul- phuric acid one, to be mentioned later), isolation of sick fowls, proper food, the prompt and appropriate treatment of those that are sick, comfortable housing, and a judicious selection of breeds to suit the climate. In what relates to hygiene and the treatment of the sick, we shall give in this Diarrhoea. 427 chapter the kind of information which can be depended upon as the result of practical experience guided by sound science. DIAREH(EA. Causes. — Nearly all the diseases in fowls arise either from cold, or wet, or neglect of cleanliness, or from improper food, and the first symptom of almost all their diseases is diarrhoea. Hence, it is especially important to watch for this and treat it promptly, as thus many serious sicknesses may be checked. At this stage much evil may be warded off. Treatment. — AVhenever a fowl hangs its wings, and looks drooping, let it be seen at once whether it appears purged, and if so, give immediately, in a tablespoonful of w^arra water, a teaspoonful of strong brandy or whisky satu- rated with camphor. Hepeat this the next morning, and, in most cases, the disease will be checked ; care being, of course, taken, to give the invalid warmth and good shelter. The best food is warm barley meal, or rice meal mixed with lime water. If these measures do not promptly check the dis- charge, give the following powder, mixed up with a little meal : — Take Powdered chalk, 5 grains. J Cayenne pepper, 2 grains. Powdered rhubarb, 5 grains. This scarcely ever fails when the case is not desperate. A great many fowls are lost when young, which could readily be saved by giving them some simple tonics, and thus a good deal of money would be made off of the poultry, which is missed through the prevailing ignorance on this subject. We would, therefore, ask attention to the use of the above tonic mixture, and also to the following mode of strengthening the constitutions of young birds — those of delicate breeds especially : if they show any indications of 428 Diseases of Foiols. ailment, give sulphur and Cayenne pepper, in the ratio of six parts of sulphur to one-sixth of pepper, mixed with barley-meal. Tonic compounds are, no doubt, in many cases good for all sorts of poultry. Cayenne jpepper is a favorite Ameri- can preventive of disease in young turkeys. It is mixed iu the proportion of a tablespoouful to a quart of boiling water ; bread is soaked in this, and given in case of chills, to which they are so liable. FOWL CHOLERA. An enormous loss is caused every year in the United States by this disease. The Reports of the Commissioner of Agriculture, at Washington, say that it prevails in half the counties heard from, and the money lost by it varies from a few hundred dollars to $200,000 in each county every year! The Commissioner figures out the total annual loss as cer- tainly more than ten million dollars ! Cause. — The disease originates from poisonous germs, and is exceedingly infectious. These germs enter the system by the digestive organs, and they are generally taken with the food. The contagion is spread by means of the excre- ment of sick fowls or the flesh or other parts of dead ones. Frequently, no doubt, it is carried considerable distances by small birds which are also subject to it. Symptoms. — The disease begins with a diarrhoea, soon becoming bloody; there is great weakness, and the eyes are dull and watery. The feathers droop, the plumage is rough, and there is no desire for food. Treatment. — Mere medicines are of no great value in this disease, but its ravages can be usually checked by com- bining them with good care and disinfection. The immedi- Fowl Cholera. 429 ate treatment should be as laid down for diarrhoea; but earnest attention must be given to put the surroundings in heahhj condition. If the feeding places and runs are kept free from the germs, there is no danger of the fowls ever becoming affected. Of course this could be accomplished by a dailj sprinkling with a disinfectant, but this would be entirely too expensive a method to be practical, even in large poultry establishments. The most that we can ex2)ect is that Avhen cholera is in a section, the poultry owners will watch their fowls, and, in case of sickness, at once remove the affected birds from the flock. The feeding grounds and houses should then be sprinkled with the following Disinfectant Ilixture. Take Sulphuric acid, . 8 ounces. Pure soft water, 8 gallons. Mix them. If this is done, the probability is that no more deaths will occur until the contagion is again introduced from abroad. There are many cases, however, in which the runs are thoroughly infected, and remain so from year to year. Under such circumstances, the poultry houses must be carefully cleaned throughout, and the woodwork and floors completely saturated with the disinfectant. Runs must be fenced off for the fowls, and these inclosures thor- oughly sprinkled. On a small scale, this may be done with a watering pot, and on a larger one, with a cask or barrel mounted on wheels, as with street sprinklers. The disin- fectant costs very little, even when several barrels of it are made; it is entirely reliable, and, consequently, by pro- ceeding in this way, poultry can be raised with the greatest safety, as far as this disease is concerned. 430 Diseases of Fowls. THE GAPES. Causes and Symptoms. — This is one of the most fatal diseases of chickens, and which we believe infectious; it is, at all events, epidemic. Unless, perhaps, thus communi- cated by others, it never occurs except there has been foul water, exposure to wet, and want of nourishing food. The disease consists — at least, so far as actual symptoms extend — in a number of small worms which infest the windpipe, and cause the poor chicken to gasp for breath. Treatment. — If taken early, it will be sufficient to give, every day, a morsel of camphor, the size of a grain of wheat, and to' put camphor in the drinking water; or a little ^ur- pentine may be given daily, in meal ; taking care, of course, that the deficiencies in diet and shelter be amended. In fully-developed cases the worms must be removed by intro- ducing a loop of horsehair into the windpipe, and turning it round during withdrawal ; the operation to be repeated sev- eral times, till all the worms appear to be extracted. A feather, stripped almost up to the top, may be used instead of the horsehair. Success depends on doing this little oper- ation neatly. It requires two persons. An assistant should take the chicken, holding it in one hand, and placing the other over its back, so as to hold it firm, and then let the operator take a small but firm feather, and strip it from the stem, excepting about an inch and a half from the tip-end, according to the size of the chicken, wetting it a little, except at the extreme point. The operator should then take the head of the chicken, placing his thumb and fore-finger on each side of the bill, in such a manner as to hold the mouth open, the neck being gently but firmly drawn out in a straight line. Then observe the opening back in the tongue, place the feather as near to it as possible, and when the chicken breathes, the windpipe will be open, at which moment intro- The Roup. 431 duce the featlier quickly and push it down gently, but not in a hurry, from two to three inches; then draw it out, and in doing so turn the feather round, by which means some of the worms will adhere to the feather, others will be so loos- ened, that the chicken will sneeze them up and throw them from its mouth. It is not advisable to do it more than twice at the same time; but if the patient gapes the day after, you maybe sure there are some still remaining, and the operation must be repeated. THE EOUP. Ca.Tlses. — The disease known by this name is highly con- tagious, and will rapidly spread among poultry unless those sick of it be at once removed from the yard. It is very important, therefore, for owners to be able to recognize it at once, and to separate the sick immediately. Otherwise, a heavy mortality will surely follow. Symptoms. — The roup is distinguished in its early stages by these symptoms : the eyes become swollen, and a discharge issues from the nostrils, first clear, but afterwards thick, and oiFensive in smell. The mouth waters and the tongue is foul and coated. The fowl droops, and usually has diarrhoea. . Treatment. — The first step is to separate the sick one from the rest of the flock, and place it in a clean, loarm house, well ventilated. The head and eyes should be washed twice a day with warm water containing a tablespoouful of vinegar to the quart. Green food should be given, and a moderate amount of meal, which may be mixed with hot ale or weak whisky and water. A little Cayenne pepper is advantageously added to the meal. Garlic beaten up with butter is a popular remedy in England. One grain of sul- phate of. copper, in a pill of meal, is highly esteemed by some poultry fanciers in this disease. 432 Diseases of Foicls. Its course is generally rapid, and the bird will usually be almost well or else dead within one week. LEG WEAKNESS AND LOSS OF FEATHERS. Causes. — Both these complaints generally arise from lack of proper care or sufficient food, or from too high feeding. They are diseases of debility. Old fowls suffer especially from bad moulting. Treatment. — What is needed is a regular diet of good, healthy food, and thorough cleanliness. To these should be added a good tonic. There is one which is very celebrated among chicken fanciers in England, known as "Douglas' Mixture." It is a most valuable article in the poultry yard whenever the fowls seem weak andla nguid, or when any of them are recovering from an attack of sickness. The receipt for it is as follows : — Douglas' Tonic Poultry Mixture. Take Sulphate of iron, half a pound. Sulphuric acid, 1 oz. Pure soft water, 2 gallons. Mix and give to the fowls by adding one teaspoonful to each pint of their drinking water. Whilst the fowls are moulting, the above mixture, or a little sulphate of iron, should always be used; it will assist them greatly through this, the most critical period of the whole year. A little hemp-seed should also be given every day, at this season, at least to all fowls of value; and with these aids, and a little pepper on their food, with perhaps a little extra meat, or even a little ale during the few weeks the process lasts, there will rarely be any lost. CHICKEN LICE AND FLEAS. These are the pest of many a hennery. To prevent them, the chicken houses should be frequently whitewashed, and ChicJcen Liee and Fleas. 433 powdered sulphur (flour of sulphur) be freely sprinkled over the floor and in the nests. For the birds themselves, the desire which fowls have of dusting themselves — taking a dust bath, as it has been termed — indicates the easy and natural remedy for relieving them from fleas; a heap of dry sand, or still better, of sifted ashes, is the simplest and most effective remedy; fowls know how to apply it themselves. As to more loathsome enemies to their comfort, and even to that of chickens, in whose tender down vermin will sometimes lodge, a good dusting of pungent snuff, or flour of sulphur, at the roots of the down or feathers, extending to the bare skin, will destroy them. CHAPTER IX. THE PROFITABLE MANAGEMENT OF LIVE STOCK. CONTKIBUTED BY WILLIS P. HAZAKD, ESQ., Author of '\Tke Guernsey and Jersey Cow," " Farmer's Frund and Planter's Guide." The Cow. On the Best Breeds— How to Choose a Good Cow — How to Keep Her in Permanent Profit. To properly consider and answer the question, What are the best breeds of cows for butter and milk dairies ? the farmer will not sim- ply declare his preference for the Holstein, the Hereford, the Devon, the Shorthorn or Durham, the Guernsey, the Ayrshire, or, though last and least, still not the least important, the Jersey breed, nor even for the native with its imperfectly traced and mingled ances- try, but will carefully study the merits of each, or at least such as may be within his reach, for the three leading points oi yield, profit and food ; or, in other words, the early period at which they are ripe for the butcher, the great amount of food they produce in re- turn for the food they consume, and the large proportion of prime meat which they yield. A proper consideration of these three points will naturally tend to the study of " How to select a good cow," and, having obtained such a one, " How to maintain her in the best condition for profit." THE DUTCH, FRIESIAN OR HOLSTEINS. The enthusiastic admirers of the Holstein or Dutch breed — and their numbers are rapidly being increased — as well as the best au- thorities upon the subject, all agree that the best strains of milking- qualities are derived from the Holstein breed. That the Danes im- ported into England stock from Denmark, Jutland and Holstein is matter of history. They settled in the county of Durham ; from thence their cattle spread eventually all over England — became known as Shorthorns, and as such have been imported into America, where by great care they have been so much improved as to be exported again to England at fabulous prices, and have there taken some of the most important prizes. But while the attention of the Eng- lish cattle-breeders has been given to improving and perfecting the beef-producing qualities of their Shorthorns, the Dutch dairy- farmers have been improving their dairy stock until they have at- 435 436 DUTCH, FRIESIAN OR HOLSTEINS. tained to a degree of excellence unsurpassed by any other breed. The reasons for these two lines of management are easily seen : in England the price of meat has so enormously increased of late years as to pay farmers better to raise meat and import their butter and cheese ; while in Holland their attention is devoted especially to the dairy and the manufacture of butter and cheese, and there- fore they are especially particular in the breeding, keeping and care of milch cows. When selecting a cow to breed from, they choose one of a con- siderable size, not less than four and a half or five feet girth, with a length of body corresponding; legs proportionately short; a finely- formed head, with a forehead or face somewhat concave ; clear, large, mild and sparkling eyes, yet with no expression of wildness ; tolerably large and stout ears, standing out from the head ; fine, well-curved horns ; a rather short than long, thick, broad neck, ■well set against the chest and withers ; the front part of the chest and the shoulders must be broad and fleshy ; the low-hanging dew- lap must be soft to the touch ; the back and loins must be properly projected, somewhat broad; the bones not too deep, but well cov- ered with flesh ; the animal should have long, curved ribs, which form a large breast-bone ; the body must be round and deep, but not sunken into a hanging belly ; the rump must not be uneven ; the hip-bones should not stand out too broad and spreading, but all the parts be level and well filled up ; a fine tail, set moderately high up, and tolerably long, but slender, with a thick, bushy tuft of hair at the end, hanging down below the hocks ; the legs must be short and low, but strong in the bony structure ; the knees broad, with flexible joints ; the muscles and sinews must be firm and sound ; the hoofs broad and flat, and the position of the legs nat- ural, not too close and crowded ; the hide, covered with fine glossy hair, must be soft and mellow to the touch, and set loose upon the body ; a large, rather long, white and loose udder, extending well back, with four long teats ; large and prominent milk-veins must extend from the navel back to the udder. The color of the North Dutch cattle is black and white beautifully contrasted. The Holsteins are now recognized as a very superior kind of large Shorthorn cattle, remarkably good for milk, both in quantity and quality. As working-oxen they have a very high reputation, being large, strong, well-made, quick, high-spirited, have great endu- rance of heat, are very muscular, and, having great aptitude to fatten, drovers and butchers esteem them highly. They are extremely valuable to cross with other breeds. Four cows, each five years old, measured six feet four inches in THE SHORTHORNS. 437 girth, seven feet six inches in length, four feet six inches in height, and weighed twelve hundred and fifty pounds, none varying much from these dimensions. One of the four produced at four years old, in the month of June, an average of fifty-six pounds of milk per day for thirty days, and one year later, in seven days, seventy-three pounds per day. The milk, too, is of the most fattening and nu- tritive quality, as is evidenced by a calf born in August weighing at birth one hundred and ten pounds, increasing in eighty days to three hundred and fifty pounds, or an average gain of three pounds per day. As tlie Holsteins are peculiarly adapted to our section of country, are excellent for cheese-making or production of milk for the family and market, and for butter, we hope to see the breed more extended, believing they are pre-eminently adapted to the wants of the general farmer, combining the three desirable qualities of dairy, beef and work-cattle. One objection has been made to them — that if proper attention is not paid to their breeding they are apt to degenerate into large, coarse stock. THE SHORTHORNS. The Shorthorns would naturally next claim our attention, deriving so much as they did from the Dutch breed, and also on account of the importance to which they have attained in the United States. In 1815 and 18 16 a few Shorthorns were imported into this country, and for the next four years more were imported into Kentucky, were carefully bred, and from thence spread through the Western coun- try. In 1834 an association in Ohio brought over nineteen head, and in the following year two additional lots, and since then several hundred with well-established pedigrees have been imported into the United States. From the fact that the first prominent breeders of the Shorthorns resided in Durham county, they took the name of Durhams, and have so retained it with many of our farmers ever since. During the fifty years the Shorthorns have been domesticated in this country they have been imported in greater numbers than any other breed, they are more widely known, and have acquired greater popularity ; surely this must have been from some good qualities which have so strongly tended to recommend them. They have become acclimated, and are healthy, thriving on common food equally well with our native cattle. They are of large size, fine, tender meat, grow rapidly, and take on meat and fat fast in propor- tion to the amount of food they consume ; make powerful and docile oxen, are excellent in the dairy, giving large quantities of milk and 438 THE SHORTHORNS. butter and rich cheese. With all these qualities we might readily suppose pure Shorthorns were just the breed for farmers. Our own choice is the Durham, the Jersey, and the Durham and Jersey mixed. Wherever there is good pasturage and plenty of winter fodder the Durhams will thrive well, but they are not the breed for stony land with scant herbage, where they have their living to earn ; the Devon or the Kerry cow is the one for that. With many of our farmers the Shorthorns have the reputation of being better beef-producers than milk-raisers ; but where proper at- tention is paid to having the bull of stock showing a strong milking tendency, and the cow the same, excellent stock can be raised for quantity and quality of milk. They are naturally good milkers, and where raised for that object no milch cows exceed them. It has been from the undue attention to their beef-producing qualities that many have been led to suppose they were not as good milkers as some other breeds ; we have always found their milk to be very rich. We will now give the points by which to select a pure-bred Short- horn bull, merely repeating that for milk-cow breeding a bull de- scended from milk cows must be selected. The bull's head should be fine, yet masculine ; the muzzle small ; the nostril wide and open ; the nose cream-color, orange or drab, even a nut-brown, but never smoky or black ; the face and jaws lean of flesh ; the forehead broad, the face slightly dishing or concave; the eyes prominent, bright and mild ; the ears small and lively in action ; the horn well set, flattish in shape, and waxy, not white, in color, with no black, except at the very tips, inclining outward, and not much upward. The neck should be somewhat arching, as showing masculine strength and power, and setting well back on the shoulders, with a clean throat and no dewlap, except a slight pendulous thread of skin at the brisket. The shoulders should be set wide, straight and open at the top, smooth at the points, with a bull-neck vein, ending below with a full, thick brisket, projecting forward. The knees should stand wide, and below them a firm, compact leg, ending in- a clean, well- shaped hoof The chine and back should be on a level from the shoulders to the tail ; the ribs round, springing roundly in an arch from the back, and running down to give full room for the heart and lungs to play in a broad, deep chest. The hips should be wide and on a level with the back ; the flank full and low ; the loin full, long, level and broad ; the rump level and well-shaped ; the tail set symmetrically and level, small and round in shape ; the thighs broad ; the gambr el-joints straight, and the leg below fine and THE DEVONS AND AYRSHIRES. 439 sinewy. Fineness of bone and a soft, elastic touch, or " good handling," are also two indispensable points. The temper should be mild and gentle. The same points apply to the cow, though modified by the gentler and more refined qualities of her sex. If the milking-qualities are no object to the breeder, he will select only for symmetry, good constitution and general excellence. If milk be the object, the parts indicating that quality are to be considered, and selections made accordingly. As to the color, tastes differ. Red, red and white and the red roans are mostly preferred, but any color from red to clear white is a good Shorthorn color. White is usually least preferred, simply as a matter of taste, and therefore as a color for thorough-breds is not so saleable ; but for beef-breeding the color is of little consequence, so that the animal itself is good. Specimens of this breed have brought the highest prices ever given for cattle. THE DEVONS. The Devons may fairly next claim our attention, as perhaps, next to the Shorthorns, more of this breed have been imported into this country than of any other. Of this breed whilst on a visit to Dev- onshire we noticed two kinds, the North and the South Devons, evidently originally from the same stock, but by a long course of breeding in special localities of quite different appearance — the North Devons of smaller size and a deep rich red color, the South Devons more of a tawny red, rather larger and more chunky ; the cows of the former weighing about one thousand pounds, and those of the latter about twelve hundred pounds. The South Devons are very beautiful, of small bone, but of very fleshy appearance, as they rapidly take on flesh at two and a half years old. The Devons, while giving moderate quantities of milk, give that of very rich quality ; therefore for those who have milk dairies we should not recommend them, but a few to help the butter-yield and improve the color is desirable. As oxen they have no superiors, being of moderate size, weighing about fifteen hundred pounds, though often fattened to two thousand pounds ; active of foot, though their short limbs would hardly indicate it ; easily fattened, as they " take on " very quickly, affording the choicest meat for the butcher ; and withal they are docile, amiable and easily taught ; they will thrive where larger or more delicate animals would hardly live, being hardy and vigorous. THE AYRSHIRES. Among the milk-breeds prominent in the British Isles the Ayr- 440 THE AYRSHIRES. shires hold a leading place. They derive the name from the county of Ayr in Scotland, where they are principally kept. Their superior qualities as milkers and for hardiness of constitution have induced various writers to attribute part of their origin to their favorite breeds. Nearly equal testimony is offered in favor of the Holsteins, the Shorthorn and the Jersey, though the weight of the testimony is in favor of the Jersey. They have always borne the character of being prolific milkers, with butyraceous quality particularly in proportion to their size, which is small. The Ayrshire farmers, finding more profit in their dairies, have paid great attention to improving this breed, so well suited to them ; and perhaps no breed affords a better illustration of what care and design will do to develop peculiar properties in an animal at the expense of other qualities. The result is dairy animals of high quality, and they have been introduced largely into England, the north of Ireland and this country. Instances are cited of large yields, but we believe the usual aver- age to be six hundred gallons per year, or one hundred and seven- ty-five pounds of butter, or four hundred and thirty pounds of cheese, where they are well fed and cared for. The oxen work kindly, and steers can be turned off at three years old weighing seven or eight hundred pounds. The beef is excellent, the fat being much mixed with the flesh, though not a favorite with the butcher, as he cannot sell so much tallow as from other breeds. The following are the principal points : The head must be small, high and bony ; the eye bright ; the horn white, with a dark tip, widely set on, inclining upward, and curving slightly inward ; neck very thin and light, as the whole fore end must be ; shoulder thin at the top ; the posterior ribs must spring well from the backbone ; the loin must be broad and form well with the wide hips and the capacious pelvis ; the whole frame thus forms a true wedge, with the point at the shoulder. The rumps are wide and tolerably high, the tail long and slender, the legs straight, the thigh rather thin, and the udder must be large and broad, extending well forward, with thin, flexible skin, and teats wide apart, hanging perpendicularly, and from two to two and a half inches long. The colors must be red and white, splashed and blotched, and becoming roan, as in the Shorthorn, but with cloudy-defined edges ; the white portion is often flecked with the darker color. Black and white, brown and white, are not uncommon now ; the darker the red, even becoming deep brown, the more fashionable. Popular as this breed has become in New England, we believe it will never become very much so in rich sections. Rich pastures will support larger breeds, which when turned off and fattened will THE JERSEYS. 441 bring in more money. As a breed to cross with larger stock, or even with the Jersey to mcrease the richness of its great flow of milk, we would recommend it highly. THE JERSEYS. The Jerseys — formerly called Alderneys, from the fact that they were imported into England from the Channel Isles, of which Jer- sey and Alderney are well known — have of late years so occupied public attention that we must devote some space to their well- defined merits. The Jerseys are noted for their extraordinary richness of milk and their beautiful form, thus making them the most desirable breed for small country places, for crossing with other breeds to improve the strain of milking qualities, and for giving character to the butter of the dairyman. Brought up in a mild climate which hardly knows any winter, they have been imported into this country, and stand the change and the rigors of our winter nearly if not quite as well as our natives, and in fact improve so much that many good breeders claim that we have fine cows born here of the Jersey breed that are superior to the majority of those in the Channel Islands. In their native country great care is taken of them ; they are housed from the wet, are carefully fed, and form almost as much one of the family as the pig in Ireland. When pasturing, as the farms are very small, they are tethered by a rope attached to their horns, allowing them a circle of sixteen feet diameter, and changed to new spots three times a day. With the constant contact they have with the farmers, or mostly their wives, who have the princi- pal care of them, the cows become very docile and affectionate. In this country, where the same care is not taken of them, they some- times become wild, and even very cross. The peculiar colors and beautiful shape of the Jerseys at once excite attention, and enable them to be recognized at a glance, their deer-like heads and large prominent eyes being very noticeable. Their chief characteristics are : in the cow the head is small, thin and rather long ; her horn is short, delicate and curved forward, white with a dark tip ; her muzzle is black, and encircled with a band of light color, as is the eye, which is bright, large and prom- inent ; her ear is small and flexible, the inside skin being bright yellow : her neck is thin and delicate, and of medium length ; her shoulders thin and sloping, and forming with the fore ribs a gradual slope outward to the hips ; the back tolerably straight from withers to setting on of tail, though generally with some sway from the size 442 THE JERSEYS. and weight of the stomach, which is large ; her loin is wide and the hind quarters well spread, and pelvis roomy ; her tail is long and delicate, with a full brush at the end ; the thighs are thin ; chest deep, though narrow ; legs very fine below the knee ; hocks slightly- turned inward ; udder large, reaching well forward, with teats of moderate size placed wide apart ; skin thin, and not too loose ; hair smooth and fine. The color varies : yellow, yellow and white, mouse-color or dun, brown, and almost black, are the chief tints. The bulls are usually darker than the females, and the depth of color increases with age. The head of the calf is strikingly like that of a fawn, and at all ages the peculiar coloring, large dark eye and flexible ear give the head a deer-like look. The milk of the Jersey cow is particularly rich, and is of a deep yellow color, yielding a butter of a rich golden color and of pecu- liarly firm grain and fine flavor. The amount of cream is proved to be from 19 to 25 per cent. While the quantity given is not large, but in proportion to her small size good, its peculiar richness and color make it of great importance in giving character to the milk of a dairy. Twelve quarts per day is perhaps a fair average, though it is proved by analysis to be far richer in butyraceous qualities than that of any other breed. The Jersey is not a large consumer, even in proportion to her size, and when dry thrives fast and makes excellent beef; the calves are, however, not a favorite with the butcher. As a breed to cross with the native the Jersey has no superior, refining those of a coarse tendency, and giving her peculiarly rich color of milk, cream and butter. The principal drawback in their breeding qualities is that they are not sure getters. As a dairy cow for the farmer the Jersey will never be very pop- ular, the first cost being too great for profit compared with other stock ; for a milk dairy the yield is not large enough ; for a butter dairy, while the yield is very great and of the best quality of but- ter, it will not pay the general farmer, but only those who attend market personally and have particular customers who will pay fancy prices. But we would strongly advise every farmer to keep at least one Jersey to every ten, if not to every six, cows, of what- ever breed. And we think no better cows can be raised than by the use of a Jersey bull with cows of native or other stock which have proved themselves prolific milkers. And here we should like to say a few words against the practice now so common amongst us of raising few cows, and buying our supphes for the dairy from herds that we can know but little of. One good cow that proves herself valuable as a milk or butter cow should have her progeny THE GUERNSEYS. 443 well got and carefully reared. Any farmer can better afford to raise such than to purchase from chance opportunities ; and the cost of two or three good calves raised upon a farm each year will never be felt, and in a short time they will come into profit. It stands to reason that the stock that is raised by a farmer at a dis- tance and sent here to be sold cannot be the raiser's best, those he is sure to keep, and it can hardly pay us to buy the poorest to milk a few years and turn over to the butcher. In improving our stock we must breed intelligently, bearing in mind that the cow needed for the dairy cannot, under any circum- stances, be selected for those qualities which will produce fat — the two natures are incompatible : to have the best meat we must get rid of every tendency to milk, and to have the best butter we must obviate every disposition to fat. We cannot have both qualities in the same animal, and the attempt will end only in disappointment. And this is one of the proofs of the great value of the Jersey for the dairy : the unusual secretion of the fat in the milk may reason- ably be attributed to the slight waste of the fat-forming portions of the food that moderate respiration and limited exercise make pos- sible, and to the fact that the fat in this form, rather than in flesh, has long been the prime object of the farmer's attention. THE GUERNSEYS. The Guernsey breed is one that is now rapidly coming into favor as the farmer's cow. It has all the merits of the Jersey for rich milk and high-class butter, and, although it has not the beauty of the Jersey, still it is a larger animal and gives a much larger quan- tity of milk. To those who are acquainted with her excellent qual- ities the Guernsey cow has a beauty that is highly valued. The quietness and docility of both cows and bulls is very strong recom- ,mendation of them as one of the best points of a milking stock. As large as a small Durham, they are usually of a lemon-fawn or a reddish-yellow color, largely blotched with white. The white, besides being on the sides, across the back and shoulders, and often on the neck, on the belly and at the tip of the tail, is almost always on all four legs, more or less. Around the eye should be circles of buff or yellow ; on the muzzle buff, though black is now being admitted on account of its frequency. The head is long ; the eye mild and placid in its expression ; the horns waxy, thin and crumpled ; the skin usually of a rich golden color ; the hair, even when a little long, soft and fine. Altogether, the animal speaks for itself as a rich butyraceous milk-giver, and in large quantities. No finer butter is made than the firm, waxy-grained, 444 THE HEREFORDS, GALLOWAYS AND KERRYS. self-colored butter of the Guernsey. The cream is of the most golden hue. The Guernsey when crossed upon other breeds makes its mark strongly, enriching the qualities of the breed crossed; and where this has occurred we have seen the traces of the Guernsey inter- mixture many years after the original stock was gone. At the present time, owing to their scarcity, the Guernseys bring the high- est prices, but when they shall become more plentiful they will continue to grow rapidly in favor and become the popular cow for the farmer. We have devoted so much time to the value of a few of the leading and most popular breeds that we shall have to hurriedly allude to the Herefords, the Galloways, the Kerry cow or the Swiss cattle. THE HEREFORDS. The Herefords, supposed to have sprung from the same stock as the Devons, have the same rich color, but always with a white face, and should be white on the throat and the under portion of the body. In size the Hereford ranks next to the Shorthorn, at- taining very nearly as great weight at not quite so early an age ; but the graziers prefer Shorthorn heifers and Hereford steers ; they make excellent oxen and steers, but the cows are not prime milkers : this reason makes them popular in England, where beef is the principal object, but they will probably never attain so much popularity here, though when better known they will be more sought for in the West, particularly as they are lower-priced than the Shorthorns. THE GALLOWAYS. The Galloways, more introduced into Canada than into our coun- try, are natives of the Lowlands of Scotlana ; they are usually black, and without horns, and as they are best fitted for colder and rougher sections than here, are not likely ever to be much in- troduced, as, though their milk is rich, it is deficient in quantity. They fatten on scanty fare, have a hardy constitution, yield a su- perior quality of beef, but are slow in coming to maturity. THE KERRYS. The Kerry cows we saw in perfection in the vicinity of the Lakes of Killarney, and tasted their rich milk. They have been im- ported in small numbers, particularly into Massachusetts. As we saw them, they were mostly black, some brown or brindled ; they are small and very hardy, but neat and trim-looking ; almost wild, living in the roughest country on the slimmest sort of pasture, SWISS CATTLE — WHAT OUR FARMERS WANT. 445 which they crop with the goat, They are emphatically the poor man's cows, yielding for their size abundance of milk of a good quality, and fattening rapidly when required. That the poor man appreciates them is proved by the price asked for them, about fourteen pounds ; and we saw poor fellows who tasted meat but once a year who lived on the buttermilk of their product, with po- tatoes and our corn meal, who did not care to sell them for that, the butter being nearly the only article that brought them in any money, save their labor, as the pig went to pay the rent. Good yielders as they are, we think their size and price will prevent them from making much progress in this country. SWISS CATTLE. The Swiss cattle have not been largely imported into this coun- try, but they bear a high reputation at home and in France. They are hardy and robust, usually of a dun color, or dun and white, with medium heads, hanging dewlaps, rather coarse shoulders, and broad hips and quarters, with well-developed udders, reminding the observer very much of the Jerseys, though of a coarser build. They bear removal to other climates readily, fatten well and are excellent milkers. The best cows yield an average of from ten to twenty quarts daily, and about two hundred and twenty-five pounds of cheese in a season of four months. We should be glad to see them imported, feeling sure they would much improve with richer pasture and be a valuable acquisition. WHAT OUR FARMERS WANT. We have thus given a short sketch of the most prominent breeds, and as each has some distinctive merit, it is nearly impossible, in deciding which breed will be of the most profit, to satisfy all tastes and judgments ; but as each farmer is apt to have his own favorites or dislikes, as his own experience has caused him to think, perhaps the truest way to arrive at a correct conclusion will be to ascertain what the general farmer needs. First. He wants a good-sized animal, which will bring most of its cost when fed off for beef after failing as a milker. Second. He wants a cow that will come into profit early. Third. He wants a cow that will give plenty of milk, and rich, whether for milk, butter or cheese. Fourth. He wants a cow that will consume the least food for the product gained. Fifth. If raised for oxen, he wants those that will be tractable, active and docile, and will feed up quickly for the butcher after service. 446 HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD COW. Is there any one breed that will combine all these qualities ? We believe the Durhams will come the nearest to it, or the Durhams and Jerseys mixed. And we repeat what we have said before, that the farmers should raise their own stock more, by selecting the best cows they have or can get, whether native or imported — the latter we presume not often, as being too high-priced — and breeding them with the best bull of pure stock of known milking-qualities they can get. And by paying attention to the business of improving their herds, and by judicious crossing, they will soon reap the profit and satisfaction they deserve. So much good stock has of late years been imported that it is better and cheaper to get cattle that have been Americanized than to risk the cost and danger of importation. There is, however, a class of farmers, whether amateur or practical, whose duty it is to introduce new and valuable stock as they can afford it ; but it is also the duty of another class, who can't afford it, to encourage such undertakings by paying a little larger price than usual for the services of an imported bull, and not, by sneering or depreciating the value of all such animals, to make the importer feel he has undertaken a thankless task, and an unremunerative one, for the extra price even will not pay him. HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD COW. Having decided what breed to raise, the first important step is to know how to choose a good cow. There are a few general rules. See that the cow is as much wedge-shaped as may be ; that is, view- ing her from the side, that she increases in height and depth the farther you go from the head ; and from the front, that from a small head and narrow neck and shoulders she gradually and regularly enlarges to a broad hip and back. 2d. See that her " mirror" or " escutcheon '' is good and free from depreciating marks. 3d. See that her milk-veins are large and prominent, and where it enters the stomach that the hole — or better if two — is large and deep ; that the udder is full in the fonvard part, and that the teats are of good size, well separated, and not too projecting toward the sides. 4th. The hair and hide must be soft, mellow and rich. A general examination should show the head small, slender and lengthy from the eye to the nose ; the horns thin and open, not crumped noi too curly ; the eye full, but not too prominent, the lat- ter quality indicating an excitability, and consequent restlessness of disposition, that is not favorable to the production of milk ; the ear lengthy and broad, and well fringed with hair, which protects it from the annoyance of flies and indicates a strong constitution ;■ a broad muzzle should be avoided, as showing a tendency to fat ; the HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD COW. 447 neck should be long, flat and narrow, with a tendency to rise at the withers, and breadth behind the arm to allow of a full expansion of the lungs, the chest being rather deep than broad ; the flat-sided cow is more especially to be chosen if she has depth to the barrel, with the ribs bending fairly outward, somewhat the shape of a horse- collar ; the hips should be wide, rugged and high, and the pelvis or haunches wide and large, drooping toward the tail ; the thigh long and lean from hip to hock, the veins being prominent and easily felt ; the legs slender, with flat bone ; and small flat feet, the hinder ones having a good width between, to afford room for the udder. A long and thin tail is a great point in breeding. The udder, the reservoir of the milk, to which all former points are secondary, should be free from hair, flexible and soft, with no tendency to flesh ; the bag extending well forward, as level as pos- sible with the belly, and high up between the thighs. The feeding- veins should be particularly observed. In the heifer with her first calf they must be felt for with the hand ; in this case two holes will be discovered by feeling under the belly nearly in a line with the navel on each side in good milking heifers — about the size of a dime. As age increases the holes extend, and the veins become large and easily perceived by the eye ; the larger these feeding- veins appear, the greater is the quantity of milk. The teats should be well separated, not fat or fleshy, and not too long, but sufficient- ly tight to retain the milk, having a tendency downward — that is, to use the technical term, not strutting, or pointing away from the quarters, as this causes waste of milk and difficulty in milking. The hide also will be found useful in detennining the fitness of particular cows for particular localities, but has little to do with the milking properties. If possible, it is better to accustom a cow to cold and exposure by degrees, in which case the hide will adapt itself to the altered condition by thickening and producing more hair. A good cow not only yield? much good milk, but almost in pro- portion to the quantity given daily is there a long continuance of the secretion between the periods of calving. But no cow should be allowed to give milk beyond eight months before calving ; the system requires at least one month's rest ; the calf will be larger and health- ier, and the mother will yield better and richer milk after calving. The fact that the system is more capable of undergoing natural, though very marked, changes in early life without danger renders a young animal indispensable for the dairy, either to breed from or to prove profitable to the keeper. To determine the age of a cow is therefore a matter of importance, and this can be done with great precision by examining the teeth and horns. 448 guenon's method. To determine the milking-qualities of a cow many important points have to be considered. In addition to those we have men- tioned, the skin should be free, thin, and may be covered with hair of any color, according to the breed. The tail is by some much looked to, and it is believed that when fine and reaching down to the hocks, with a fine tuft of hair, it is associated with other good milking-points. If in addition to large milk-veins the network of veins seen beneath the skin over the fore quarters of the udder, and the udder itself, and those which pass upward behind toward the tail — in fact over the perineum — are large, they are sure tests of a competent milker. They should be highly developed, large and varicose ; they are irregular, in zigzag lines, knotted, and more or less oblique. To estimate them it is necessary to take into account the state of the cows in respect to flesh, the thickness of the skin, food, general activity, fatigue, journeys, heat. It is necessary also to recollect that in both sexes all the veins are larger in the old than in the young — that the veins which encircle the udder are those which, if the cows are in milk, vary most according to the different periods of life ; though scarcely apparent in youth, they are of con- siderable size when, after several calvings, the operation of calving has given the gland its full development. Finally, there is the most valuable of all methods — Guenon's system. guenon's method. Guenon, rising from the humbler classes, and from his boyhood being among milch cows in the vicinity of Bordeaux, narrowly ob- served the relation between the amount of milk secreted and the development of the patch of skin covered with upturned hair ex- tending from the udder upward and laterally over the thighs. He could tell almost infallibly about the exact quantity any cow would give, and the quality. And so may the thorough student of his sys- tem, as it is based upon facts and long observation. It is not very easy to give intelligibly the whole system, in order to adopt it with- out further guide, in a condensed article like this ; a practical de- monstration will prove more instructive. But the farmer should not fail to become thoroughly acquainted with it, as simplified and made easy and plain in the book with one hundred engravings published by J. M. Stoddart & Co., Philadelphia, entitled How is Select Cows, by Willis P. Hazard ; they send it by mail on receipt of fifty cents. Ten forms of scutcheons or mirrors have been described, and constitute the basis of Guenon's classification. The surface of the scutcheon is distinguished by the hair turned upward and opposite MAINTAINING THE COW IN PROFIT — FEEDING. 449 in direction to that covering other parts of the animal's skin. This hair differs from all the rest in color, and is fine, soft and close. The scutcheon springs from the middle of the four teats, whence a portion of its hair springs and extends toward the navel ; whereas the other part rises toward the inner and upper part of the hocks to the middle of the posterior surface of the thighs, then, rising over the udder on the perineum, it extends in some classes to the upper angle of the vulva. The surface or extent of the scutcheon denotes the milking capacity ; its form and outline indicate the class ; the fineness of the hair and the color of the epidermis the quality of the milk. For the most part, it is very easy to distinguish the scutcheons by the up- ward direction of the hair which forms them. They are even some- times surrounded by a line of bristly hair, turned backward, and formed by the meeting of the upward and downward hair. In some cases animals thus marked are to be avoided as being bastards. It is just as important that the bull should have as good a scutch- eon as the cow, as the qualities of the mother inherited by her son will be transmitted to her daughters ; and for this reason also is it very necessary that the bull shall have a good parentage. HOW TO MAINTAIN THE COW IN PROFIT. With a good selection made there will necessarily follow the ques- tion, How to maintain her in good condition for profit ? It must be apparent to eveiy thinking person that good qualities, even in the highest perfection, will not ensure an abundant and rich supply of milk unless proper care is taken to furnish the cow with the kind of food best calculated for the required purpose. THE ART OF FEEDING. The first requisite is, that the animal should have abundance of food, so as to be able to consume all that she requires in as short time as possible, as then she will lie down and have the more time to secrete her milk, and that milk acquire richness. In short, she must not have to work too hard for her living. The pasture should be often changed, and if not in pasture the food should be succu- lent, otherwise fat instead of milk will be produced ; but cows fed with food of too watery a nature, which is the case with roots early in the season, require an addition of more solid food, such as meal or good clover chaff, otherwise the milk, although considerable in quantity, will be poor and wheyey, yielding no cream. Such roots should be carefully selected as have no symptoms of decay, and should be mild in flavor, or the butter will be tainted. In very cold weather, and as a change of food, use oil-cake and ground oats, 450 THE MANAGEMENT OF COWS. Steamed or boiled. The; best roots are carrots, yellow turnips and mangold-wurzel, succeeding each other. The cow and the horse can well pasture together, but no other animal should be allowed in the same field, pigs and poultry spoil- ing and tainting the feed. The pasture must be kept clean from weeds and all refuse matter. It must be supplied with an abundance of pure water and be free from all standing water. Cows should be taken in about sunset, or before they are preparing to rest for the the night, and should not be hurried to or from pasture, especially when full of milk. Experiments have proved it is better cows should not remain out all night, after August at least, but be stabled in an open, airy shed. Cows should always in winter be well fed, regularly fed, and with sufficient food of the right kind. Regular currying is of the great- est utility, as it keeps the pores open and promotes the circulation. Feed twice a day as much as they will eat of timothy and clover hay mixed, with two quarts of Indian meal unbolted, four quarts of wheat bran, and half a peck or a peck of carrots or sugar-beets, to each. Turnips rfiay be fed to dry cows, but for milking cows they give a taste to the milk and butter. Corn-fodder is excellent as an addi- tion, but if fed by itself will give an unpleasant taste to both milk and butter. Steamed or cooked food is now much used, and to great advantage, but we doubt if it pays where but few are kept ; cows will eagerly drink the hay-tea that is left after steaming the hay. Potatoes, raw or cooked, are excellent food, and thus the small ones come into play. In summer-time or early fall, if the pasture is short, fresh corn-fodder helps the milking-qualities won- derfully, and vv^e are glad to see it is much more raised than for- merly. The earlier it is grown and the earlier it is fed, the more it will help the milking-qualities. A piece of rock-salt should always be where the cows can find it. THE MAXAGEMENT OF THE COW. The proper management of milking cows is no less important than proper food. It should always be borne in mind that the animal whose capa- bilities are for milking becomes lean on the same quantity of food as will make the feeding cattle fat. The consequence of this is that the milking (and therefore lean) cow is more affected by changes of temperature than the feeding or fat one. Therefore, for success- fully maintaining her in profit care should be taken to avoid rapid and considerable changes of temperature, as well as damp or clay land. There should always be a clean, dry shed in which the cattle THE ART OF MILKING. 451 may take shelter whenever they feel uncomfortable either from heat and flies or cold and damp. This shed should be well drained and opening to a warm aspect. An animal always cold is always uncomfortable, and a large pro- portion of the food she takes is consumed in keeping up the heat of the body instead of making milk ; warmth is therefore food to the cow, and may be obtained with httle cost and less trouble than some other food. Cold and sudden chills are a great detriment to the appearance of the cow, and are frequently the cause of her falling off in her milk so early in the season. So it is in turning cows out too early in the season ; much injury is done by exchang- ing them from a warm yard or shed to pass the night in the open air before the season is sufficiently advanced. In proportion as the breed of cattle has improved, so has the ne- cessity of care increased. It is a question of economy whether it is not best to bring cows in at night all through the year, for they spoil much grass, and are not benefited by being in the dewy grass too early in the morning ; and the manure would be in the yard, where it is valuable, instead of under the fences, where the cattle would naturally lie for protection. Perfect cleanliness in every part of the oow-house is of essential importance ; the stalls should be kept clean, the walls free from cobwebs and dust, and the mangers clean also. Much of the ben- efit of good food is lost by giving it badly prepared or in uncleanly boxes. ' The importance of ventilation is very great, but its benefits will be in a measure lost if the interior of the house is not kept clean. Another point to be attended to is the bedding and littering of cows ; in many cases this is grossly neglected, the animals being kept in a very uncomfortable condition. The long straw as gene- rally used is not economical ; it is most efficient if cut with the straw-cutter. Less straw is required in this form than if used long, and it not only admits of the droppings being lifted easily away without disturbing the rest of the bedding, but it is in the best con- dition for the manure-heap. Sawdust also forms an excellent bed- ding, as do chaff, leaves, etc. THE ART OF MILKING. Another matter to be attended to, to keep the cow in profit, is to see that she is milked properly. As a general principle, cowsr should be milked twice a day, and the time should be regular, say ' at six in the morning and six in the evening all the year round. If after calving, in the early state of milk, it should be found that the bag becomes too full from extreme heat or other cause, it will be 452 POINTS IN cows. advisable to reduce the bag in the middle of the day ; but some judgment is necessary in putting this into practice, as too great eagerness in relieving the bag may have an injurious effect by weakening the power of retention. Before and during the time of milking the cow should have some good hay or meal. It is bene- ficial in two ways : it is a wholesome stay to the stomach ; it en- grosses the attention of the animal and keeps it quiet during the operation ; it helps to sustain the stomach of a large yielder, drained by the flow of milk, and needing extra sustenance for the growth of the unborn calf. This should be done even during pas- ture-time, say a quart of good bran at each milking ; and if fed to them under a shed in the field, where they could be fastened in stanchions, it saves all necessity for driving the cows, it keeps them quiet, and saves the time and temper of the milkers in fly-time, and surely increases the yield and easy flow. The hands should be dry and clean ; wet hands chap the teats in cold weather, and want of cleanliness produces warts. The last milk withdrawn is richer for the production of butter — one pint than two quarts of milk first drawn off. Imperfect milking will also dry the cow much earlier than if properly milked, and tend to decrease the quantity. A few days prior to calving, should the bag be much distended, it should be thoroughly relieved. Whatever may be the cause of the. restlessness of the cow during milking, gentleness is the only treatment that should be allowed. A young animal never forgets ill-treatment, and will withhold her milk. We have thus endeavored to gather the experience of those who have made the nature and management of cows a lifelong study ; and if we have presented nothing new to experienced farmers, our object will be gained if they will only put into practice what they know already, and not treat cows with indifferent care, and expect the same rich returns from their investment as if they were properly cared for. Remember that all nature is alike, subject to the same natural laws, and none of these can be violated without paying a penalty. Get a good cow of the best breed for your pur- pose ; not only select it with care, but keep it in good condition for profit, and in the long run it will pay you better than if neglected. We have a subject not only of great interest to all of us, but as much might be properly said upon each one of the topics treated as has been said upon them all combined. POINTS IN cows. Points in stock are the badges of purity. What are known as "points" are certain conformations, outlines of shapes and marks POINTS IN COWS. 453 of color which specify that the animal possessing them is truly and distinctly a member of the class demanding the specifications pos- sessed. The average farmer gives but little attention to the finer points, but with his experience and habit of association judges very critically at times. While farmers are seemingly anxious to improve, they endeavor to do so without knowing in which direction to ben- efit themselves. Nearly every farmer claims to be an expert at se- lecting milch cows, yet in breeding his stock he does not consider first what he is to breed for. Does he stop to consider whether he wishes the offspring of his favorite cow to be a superior milker or a great butter-producer ? The influence of the sire is to be consid- ered above all others in such a matter. Jersey bulls are scattered far and wide now, and are within the reach of all, and yet the dairyman who sends his milk to market, and cares not to make butter, is foolish in patronizing Jersey bulls. The Jerseys are for butter-producing only, and are not heavy milkers. The milk such cows give is very rich ; it is almost pure cream ; but it does not come up in quantity. The farmer who desires large yields of milk from cows should seek to have transmitted to his young stock, the blood of the Holstein or Ayrshire ; for, although the milk from cows of these breeds is not as rich in quantity as that from the Jerseys or Guernseys, it greatly excels them in quality. Thus, those farmers living within reach of cheese-factories can best pro- mote their interests by selecting Holsteins or Ayrshires for improv- ing their stock, while those who send butter to market should have nothing but the butter-producers. A great milker shows her qualities in her looks and make-up. The eyes and hair also give good indications. The first point for a farmer's observation, and the principal one, is to observe that she does not show a tendency to become "beefy" or rounding, with points that denote good fattening qualities. A first-class cow does not get fat as a rule, but is rather bony and ugly-looking. The shape of the Jersey should be deer-like, with a large, mild-looking eye and soft feeling of hide to the touch. The udder should be full, reaching far up at the rear. One of the most prominent points is the large milk-ducts (sometimes as large as a person's arm) run- ning from the udder to the middle of the stomach. They are sure indications of good milking-qualities. Jerseys have black nozzles and tongues, the udder being usually smoother than in other breeds, and velvet-like when examined by touch. The Holsteins are a very large breed of cows, equalling the Shorthorns in size, but largely excelling them in milking-qualities. The young male calves from such cows can be kept with profit, as the Holsteins, 454 STALL-FEEDING CATTLE. when fed for the purpose, make not only gosd beef, but equal to the best. Oxen from this stock are nearly equal to the Devons. Their color is usually black and white. But in endeavoring to breed for milk it should not be forgotten that all the excellent characteristics are rarely found in a single breed. Thus we must not expect to find good milkers among the Shorthorns, nor have choice beef from the milch cows. A cow cannot make milk and beef at the same time. If her tendencies are toward milk, she will be hard to fatten ; if she keeps extra fat, it means that she is a better flesh-former than milk-producer. A great deal depends on the feed, as a matter of course, but the breed must first be taken into consideration if an increase in the herd is contemplated. Now, no matter in how many points the farmer's experience and judgment may serve him, there are some animals that will fail in their milk when pregnant, and it is exceedingly difficult to distin- guish them. They are generally the plumpest, roundest and most attractive-looking cows, and should be avoided, because they are nojt profitable. By the marks on them which Guenon has pointed out they may be avoided. It is rather difficult to describe these points without the engravings, but they will be found delineated and described in How to Select Cows, sent by mail by the pub- lisher of this volume upon receipt of fifty cents. STALL-FEEDING CATTLE. Breeders differ on this important subject. A good way is to give turnips in the morning, followed by hay, chopped stuff, at noon ; then some hay again ; turnips in the evening, followed by hay to last through the night. Exercise a little daily, affording the animals an opportunity to drink when out for exercise. In the Ontario Agricultural College at Guelph, Canada, the following is the time-table adopted for feeding stalled cattle in order to fatten as rapidly as possible : 7 A. M., turnips and hay ; 8.30 A. M., meal and bran; 11.30 a.m., turnips and hay; r.30 p. M., meal and bran; 4 P. M., turnips and hay ; 8 P. M., meal and bran. Exercise for about twenty minutes daily, and water, though they rarely drink when fed turnips three times daily. The average quantity of food given is as follows : sixty pounds turnips, twelve pounds hay, twelve pounds grain, and three of bran. HORSE POINTS. 455 HORSE POINTS. It is action in the horse that sells. This is obtained when we have the complemental power in the muscle, the greatest leverage from the bones and quality in the tendons, health in the ligaments, and truth in the disposition of the limbs. We adjudicate on the horse's hind quarters as a whole. All horses with any pretensions to quality or family possess length and straightness from the hip to the tail. This is especially graceful and horizontal in the thorough- bred. 1. Length from hip to hock is the criterion both of speed and power. All horses of value are "well let down " in their quarters, affording increase of length and volume in the muscles, power and speed accruing. The haunch-bone and thigh-bone — the first strong and long, the second strong, of average length. This naturally varies with breed, but in all classes it is most important that the thigh "be well let down into the hock." Muscular development here cannot be too "immense." Good gaskins afford material help for getting through the dirt. 2. At the articulation of the haunch and thigh-bone we find the stifle /;/ situ. A good one, without exception, is high up, abutting the flank. This is the concentration of power in all classes ; it is a certain sign that the haunch-bone is well sloped forward, and that the thigh-bone is well carried back. 3. The hock we have previously determined on, but as to the fore legs I counsel young beginners to avoid weak, ill-defined knees. So also have as little to do with horses whose os calcis, or point of the hock, is ill defined. Remember puff and gum are weakness. The os calcis contributes leverage ; it is evidence both of power and speed. The hind cannons, or metatarsal bones, must individually be straight, with just a soupfoti of inclination forward. They should be flat and short. Breadth under the hock here is strength, the sign of quality. Feel tendons along their course, that the legs, as in the fore, are clean in the tendons (broad and flat) ; the sesa- moid bones, at the upper portion of the fetlock-joints, well pro- nounced. How should I feed oats to my horses ? Boiled oats are best for very young or very old horses, on ac- count of their immature or defective teeth ; but for mature horses at hard work feed dry oats. Soft feed induces perspiration. 456 HORSE POINTS. BLANKETING. Should I cover my horse at once when I bring him into the stable in a heated condition, or let him cool down before I put on the blanket ? Do neither. A half hour before your arrival at the stable work him slowly, and let him cool down on the road. But if he does arrive in a heated condition, throw an old blanket over him and walk him till he cools down. Then rub him down till very dry, and when quite cool put on his blanket, and water and feed him. WORMS. A horse troubled with worms will become very thin, no matter how well fed — will have a desire to rub his tail on everything pos- sible, and dung after, a little at a time. So get rid of them, and improve the condition of the animal. Prepare by giving a drachm dose of tartar emetic morning and night in bran mash. Give neither hay nor oats for three days ; at the end of that time ad- minister one quart of raw linseed oil and two ounces of spirits of turpentine, mixed. Give the dose on an empty stomach, and ex- ercise that day and the following morning ; after which purgation will ensue ; after which feed as usual. INTERFERING. This is best treated by getting the animal into a healthy condi- tion, as the trouble in very many cases is due to weakness of the system ; at the same time proper shoeing should be attended to. HEAVES. What is the best treatment for heaves ? It is rarely cured, but with care may be greatly relieved. The food should be carefully regulated, so that the horse is not allowed to engorge himself either with hay or straw. The hay should be clean and free from dust. At the same time procure half a dozen powders from your druggist, each composed of powdered opium one drachm, and "acetate of lead half a drachm ; one powder to be given daily in his feed, or, if he refuse to eat the powders, ad- minister in a little water. Proper Ages of Reproduction (1), Length 0/ Power of Reproduction (2), and Periods of Gestation (3) in Domestic Animals. 1. 2. 1 1. 2. 3. Short- est. Mean. Long- est. Short- est. Mean. Long- est. Horse f Mare \ . Cow V^ Bull ^-*z ^°^ N. Boar Ewe Bam Trs. i 3 1 2 Years. 12 to 15 10 to 12 lU 5 6 6 6 7 Days. 2S7 210 109 146 Days. 347 283 115 154 Days. 419 321 143 161 JacKass.. Ass iGoat ISlut Dog .Cat " female Years. 4 2 2 1 Years. 12to]5 lOtol'.' 5 to 6 8 to 9 8to 9 9 to 10 5to 6 Days. 365 150 55 48 Days. 580 156 60 60 Days. 391 163 63 5« THE FOLLOWING SUGGESTIONS WILL BE FOUND OF VALUE IN THE SANITARY MANAGEMENT OF LIVE STOCK. Horses. — Give horses daily exercise, either by turning them loose in a yard for a few hours or by driving them in the harness. Mares 'vith foal should be handled with great care, and if there is much snow and ice they should be sharp-shod to prevent their slipping down, which would be very liable to cause slinking. Feed breed- ing mares a pint of unbolted wheat flour daily in connection with their other food, as a small quantity of wheat flour is more highly esteemed than any other meal by experienced horse-breeders for developing the growing foetus. — Keep brood mares in loose boxes ten feet square, and when possible give each one a sunny yard to go to at pleasure in all weathers, when it is not too slippery. — A few carrots with their grain will aid digestion and appetite, and improve their coats. Train colts so that no breaking will be needed, either of spirit or of harness. Keep working and carriage horses sharp-shod, well groomed, and blanketed when standing out or in cold stables after exercise. Ventilate stables, and abolish high feeding-racks. — While they are shedding their coats the skin makes heavy de- mands on the organs of nutrition ; it is peculiarly sensitive to cold, to wet and drafts, and horses are liable to take cold. They should, therefore, be well fed and groomed, and blanketed when exposed, quite as well as in midwinter. Be careful about letting horses that are shod get loose in the lots together. They are playful, and in their play often kick one another severely. Horses intended for the market should never be used before the plow nor for hard labor. Neither should those used for fast work on the road, nor showy car- riage horses ; it makes them stiff and awkward, and will seriously affect their value. — Look to having well-fitting harness ; sponge the shoulders, legs and feet of hard-working horses nights and mornings. Cows. — Dry off six to four weeks before calving. Give generous feed of hay and oats, but not much grain. Cut hay or straw steamed, and a Httle bran or meal added, is profitable. Keep the skin healthy by frequent carding and brushing. Those about to calve should be turned loose into separate, roomy stalls. Watch their time to give assistance if needed, but do not interfere unless absolutely necessary, and then use gentle means. Allow the calf to have the milk for a day or two. Its effect is medicinal and ne- 457 458 LIVE-STOCK. cessary to the new-born animal. After calving give the cow a warm bran mash made with scalding water, and afterward her or- dinary feed, increasing the amount of roots and grain to promote the flow of milk and prevent the exhaustion of the animal. — Cows which are giving milk must have an increase of feed. Mangolds or sugar beets are best. Cut them in slices and sprinkle them with bran, and feed half a bushel more or less at a time, after the cows have filled themselves with hay or corn, fodder or grass. Soft turnips may be fed to some cows at milking-time and not flavor the milk. Keep up the flow of milk if possible, especially with young cows, by feeding meal, bran and roots. Cattle. — Cows that have not yet calved should be allowed to stand several hours daily in large sunny yards. If the calves be removed from milch cows as soon as dropped, the cow is less wor- ried than if they are taken away after she has become attached to them. New milch cows ought to have roots or some green succu- lent feed: in winter and early spring what is called "slops" sup- plies the place of more natural and better things. April is one of the worst months for caked bag, garget, milk fever, etc. ; watch for the first symptoms, and check the disease if possible. — See that all cattle have access to pure water. Where they drink at a pond, large poles or sticks of timber should keep them from going into the water to stand, as they usually dung immedi- ately after drinking. Do not feed too many animals on the same ground. One good cow, well fed, will yield more milk than two cows on short pasture. Calves dropped in February will bring large prices in March. If to be raised, wean early, and feed well with skimmed milk, clover tea and gruel. — Give calves a comfortable yard or pen, whether raised by hand or the cow. Confined in close quarters, the floor beneath should be cleaned often and littered abundantly. It is as cruel as unprof- itable to keep them tied in cold, filthy places. Two calves may often be profitably raised on one cow. Always scald or cook meal for young calves before mingling it with any kind of milk or feed, as raw meal is very liable to produce scours. Wheat flour boiled in milk checks scours. — Keep the yards or pens dry and clean, and mow a little grass for them daily. Where calves are allowed to suck, put a little wheat flour in one end of a small trough and salt in the other end, where calves can reach it. They soon eat meal. — See that they have a good supply of clean, fresh water during the hot weather. Let them have access also to a tub containing salt. LIVE-STOCK. 459 Wean them gradually. It is very injurious to withhold a full supply of milk abruptly, and confine them to grass and water. It often stunts thpm, so that they never recover from it. Beeves. — Bullocks or dry cows should be confined a large pro- portion of the time in close yards or spacious stalls well littered. Feed with hay, corn meal and some pumpkins or roots. Better feed bountifully and fatten rapidly than to give a small allowance and fatten slowly. — It is bad policy to sell good cows for beef because they com- mand a high price. Better hold on to good cows for breeding. — If the weather be pleasant, allow fattening bullocks or dry cows to exercise in a small yard several hours daily. As the warm weather comes on, their thrift will be promoted by carding as often as once a day. As soon as grass is large enough, let them graze about an hour daily ; then return them to the yard, but do not di- minish the quantity of meal. Beeves will fatten very fast if man- aged rightly. If meal be discontinued, they will not fatten much till their bowels become accommodated to green feed. — During April, bullocks three years old should receive from ten to fifteen pounds of fine corn meal, mingled with wet straw during the day. Meal fed at this season of the year will prepare them to lay on fat and flesh when they are turned to grass. This is equally true of fattening sheep designed for early mutton. — Sheep should not be confined in close stables, but, except during storms, should have the range of a large stockyard or lot. Feed in well-constructed racks and feeding-troughs. Turnips and beets, fed freely, are very fattening, and more economical generally than corn. Whatever grain is fed should be given regularly ; even a very small quantity is well, if it can be fed so that each sheep shall get its share. Salt ought to be kept constantly where the sheep can get at it. If, however, it has not been, they must be gradually accustomed to it. Sheep need water in winter. It is much better for them to have access to water which does not freeze. — Exercise and fresh air are essential to their health. Shelters must be well ventilated, not crowded, and the sheep turned out daily, except in severe storms. Roots, fed with grain, will be re- turned in wool and mutton. Pregnant ewes should have little, if any, grain, but roots with hay. Those yeaning early will need sep- arate, clean, not over-littered apartments, and careful attention, that the lambs be not fatally chilled. — There is no better feed for young swine, horses, neat cattle of all kinds and sheep than peas and oats. Seed may be obtained \)y the barrel or sack of seed-dealers in most cities and large towns. ^60 LIVE-STOCK. — Keep their yard dry and well littered, and protect them from cold and wet storms. Sheep dislike wet yards and leaky roofs as much as a cat does a wet floor. — Sheep bear more exposure than any other of our domestic animals (not even excepting horses not worked) — that is, exposure to the weather, but not without shelter from storms. — Sheep frequently suffer greatly in August for want of water. If there is no water in their pasture lot, let them be put at night in a lot where there is water, or else be driven to water night and morn- ing ; allow them plenty of time to drink. If the weather is wet and the grass long and succulent, it is a good plan to mow a portion of it occasionally. The sheep will eat and thrive on the dried grass. It is a true saying that "sheep like roast meat better than boiled." Lambs should be weaned in August. Let them have the best of pasture after weaning, and place the ewes on poor pastures until dry. Examine the bags for a few days, and, if necessary, draw out the milk. When dry, and if early lambs are desired next spring, the ewes toward the latter end of the month should begin to have abundance of good food. Strong, healthy lambs can only be ex- pected from ewes in good condition. Sheep intended to be fattened next winter should be purchased in August and placed in good pas- ture. In the case of Merinoes select strong, thrifty wethers three or four years old. There is no money to be made in fattening poor sheep in winter. — Separate all feeble ones from the main flock, so that every one may receive a little grain and roots daily in connection with other food. — Sheep, if fed liberally and managed carefully, are most profit- able stock. The better we do for them, the better they will do for us ; badly managed, they are likely to prove a failure. — Feeding sheep for market is a profitable business for those who have judgment to buy well, to feed well and to sell well. Two profits can easily be made : a big manure heap and good pay for feed and care will be returned to the skillful feeder. — Apply a little pine tar to their noses to repel the fly. Separate bucks from ewes, or fetter their fore legs about five or six inches apart, that they may be impotent to harm. Designate the age and character of each sheep by significant marks on the rumps or shoulders. A figure (i, 2 or 3, etc.) on the shoulder may signify a ewe and her age, and one on the rump a wether and his age. — Make timely and suitable preparations for protecting all kinds of sheep from the cold storms of rain and snow, which are usually called " May lamb-killers." If sheep have been turned to grass, LIVE-STOCK. 461 they ought to be allowed access to a good shed during most of the time while such storms prevail. Also, to prevent scours, caused by changing from dry feed to grass, let them have only a small quan- tity of grass daily for several days at the close of the foddering sea- son. Shear early, and without washing. — A run in a field from which early roots have been gathered will be beneficial to the flock. It will help to accustom them to the change of food which will soon be required. Small or imper- fect roots may be left ungathered for them, which they will pick up for themselves. Where early lambs are not desired, the rams should be kept separate from the ewes, or, if it is not convenient, the ram may be aproned or " bratted." — December is the most important month in the year, in this lati- tude, to effect anything in improving sheep. Good protection from storms and regular feeding are most important. It is better to com- mence feeding lambs and all kinds of sheep a little grain cfaily in December than to wait until they begin to lose flesh. Lambs. — The ewes should be coupled in October for March Iambs. The best ewe is a common-grade Merino or native sheep. For the earliest, those which come from Ohio or Western Pennsyl- vania, weighing about ninety to one hundred pounds, are excellent for this purpose. A pure South-Down ram, and next a Hampshire- Down, and next a Cotswold, is the best animal to cross upon these. A plump, fat lamb of moderate size will bring more than a "scraw- ney " one half as big again. The black face and legs of the " Down " breeds are desirable in market lambs. Oxen. — Feed workers a few quarts of meal every day, whether they labor or not, as it will give them strength, make them endure the heat better, and increase their market value more than the worth of the meal. Provide teamsters with a soft leather lash and limber stock, with which they cannot strike a hard blow. — Feed in accordance with the labor demanded of them, but on no account let them fall off in flesh. Oxen low in flesh are more hable to meet with accidents than others, and if a poor lousy steer breaks a leg, nobody wants the beef, and it is not fit to eat ; not so with one in good condition. Young cattle ought not to be pamper- ed, but well fed and kept in growing order. Working Oxen. — See that the yokes are right, and bows are not so short as to choke them. Feed working cattle well and handle them carefully, and they will grow fat every day, and be worth more for beef next summer than they may be bought for now. Oxen will endure the heat nearly as well as horses if fed as well and not abused and worried by bad driving. Always allow them at least 462 LIVE-STOCK. two hours during the middle of the day for rest and chewing the cud — time for which is quite as necessary as time to feed. — Keep them in sheltered sheds, or better in good warm stables, well fed and carded frequently. Poor oxen or young cattle are a disgrace to any farmer. Do not neglect shoeing in freezing weather. Stume. — The quantity of manure which a few hogs will make, if plenty of muck and htter be thrown from time to time into their pen and the whole be kept under cover, is very great. — Separate sows that will farrow from other swine. Allow breeding sows, before and after farrowing, potatoes or other succu- lent food, with bran or linseed meal. At least two weeks before their time for farrowing give them clean, well-littered sties, but not straw enough to endanger the young by overlaying of the mother. A projecting shelf, eight inches high, on the sides of the pen, wiU allow the pigs to escape much danger from this source. — Efo not feed too high before the young pigs are ten days old. — Pigs designed for pork next fall should be separated from the sows as soon as they will eat readily. Keep them in moderately close quarters, as, when running about in large enclosures, they will expend a great deal of material without adding proportionately to their growth. There is nothing better than milk, oat and barley meal and wheat flour unbolted to make a pig grow. It is some- times more economical to feed wheat flour than oat meal to pigs. — As soon as green peas are fit to feed, let the swine have a good supply. Keep shoats in a thriving condition. When they are confined in close quarters, mow an armful of red clover for them once or twice a day. Where whey is fed, it will make much better swill to mingle meal or shorts with it, and allow fermenta- tion to commence before feeding. Swine of all kinds like clean and pure water, as well as any other animals ; and if they could al- ways have access to it, they would not probably " wallow in the mire." • — Keep no pig over a year old for fattening if the most profit is looked for. — Low prices causes farmer to neglect their pigs. It is poor policy. If kept at all, they should be kept well. Let them search for their food, run on the stubbles, pick up wormy fruit in the or- chard, and eat weeds and grass. At night they have a feed of soaked corn, and go to sleep contentedly with a full stomach. They should have constant access to fresh water, and an external appli- cation will be gratefully received. Dogs. — Unite with your neighbors in urging your representatives in the Legislature to protect sheep-raising from the ravages of de- structive curs by strong laws. DAIRY. POULTRY. 463 Dairy. — Look out for improvements in selecting cows for the dairy as well as making butter and cheese. Read How to Select Cows. Make a horse, dog or sheep do the churning. Butter. — Give cows an abundance of sweet grass and clean water, and access to salt ; see that boys and dogs do not worry them ; milk regularly with clean hands ; keep milk in clean and sweet vessels, and in a cool, pure apartment ; churn often ; work the butter well with anything but the bare hands ; use only the purest and best salt ; pack in clean jars or tubs ; keep cool, and cover with salt cloths, and the butter will be equal to prime " Orange County." Poultry. — To gratify the secretiveness of hens make nests where they cannot be seen by other fowls when they are laying or setting. If nests be too deep, eggs will rest on each other, which should never occur. — Confine as soon as the garden is sown, or keep them out of it. Put hens (in coops) and young chickens in the garden:" Tur- keys' eggs ought not to be set before the first of May ; when hatched, put the brood in a dry, warm shed, where no other poul- try have been in the habit of frequenting, and keep them out of dewy grass for six weeks. — Keep a good dust-bath for the fowls, and add unleached wood- ashes to it occasionally ; watch any appearance of vermin, and clear them out with an application of kerosene, which may be rubbed un- der the wings and on the backs and breasts of the birds. White- wash occasionally and thoroughly houses, perches, nests and all. — Collect eggs of all kinds before evening, lest they be injured during cold nights. Place those designed for setting in a pan of bran or oats, little end down, to keep the yolk from the side and adhering to the shell. Hens and other female birds turn over their eggs frequently, both before and during the period of their incu- bation. Mark choice eggs with red chalk or pencil. ' — Why do so many eggs sold in the markets taste so strongly of straw ? Because the farmers permit their fowls to work most of their living out of the manure-heap. This not only gives the egg a peculiar taste, but the flesh also. Just feed a hen on onions or turnips for a few days ; kill it, and you will be convinced of the effect of the food on the ^gg and meat, if you have any doubt on the subject. Give your fowls plenty of sound grain and clean food, and keep the manure for the soil. — Feed well ; let them out of the yard before sunset daily ; sup- ply them with a box of sharp gravel where there is none in the soil. Whole grain should be soaked at least twenty hours for them; and if ground it will go much farther. 4G4 POULTRY. — If eggs are expected during the winter, they must be provided for in October. Dispose of the old hens ; select as many of the best young pullets, and feed them well. Give wheat soaked in hot water once a day. Barley, buckwheat and corn, in equal proportions, may make the rest of the food ; chopped cabbages will help. Pro- vide clean quarters, plenty of water, gravel, old mortar and char- coal. Make the house warm ; do not crowd too many into it, and a good supply of eggs will result. — Insist on having eggs. Warm, clean quarters, cooked grain and potatoes, scraps of meat, powdered bones or lime, gravel, ashes and warm water, are the convincing arguments. — Feed scraps of meat or pounded bones frequently in winter. Give warm, light quarters, and dry ashes to dust themselves with, fresh water (but warm) daily, and keep the water and feed vessels scrupulously clean. Thus avoid diseases among poultry, and get plenty of eggs. — Fill a box before the snow covers the ground with a bushel or two of clean gravel ; but if this cannot be found, pound up some large stones — best sandstones. Care of Poultry. — Roup. — If hens seem to have cold in the head, what is the matter, and how can I cure them ? It is roup. Remove the dry discharge from the eyes and nose, and wash them morning and evening with water and vinegar, about half and half. Pip. — What will cure pip in hens ? Pip is caused by exposure to damp or wet weather. The symp- toms are a short, quick, spasmodic cough resembling a chirp, with a stoppage of the nostrils, compelling the fowl to respire through the mouth. It is not considered a disease in itself, but is a symp- tom, and if not attended to and checked will result in catarrh, and oftentimes end in roup. Remove the bird to a dry, warm place, wash out the mouth and nostrils with a weak solution of chlorinated soda, and mix cayenne pepper with the food. A Cure for Chkkejt Cholera. — One of the greatest afflictions in the poultry-yard is chicken cholera, and when once the disease gets a foothold, unless some prompt measures are taken to prevent its spread, the consequences are often disastrous. The following is a specific for this disease : Cayenne pepper, 2 parts, I Pulverized gentian, i part, Prepared chalk, 2 parts, I Pulverized charcoal, i part. Tak 2 the parts by measurement, not by weight. Mix all with lard or mutton suet to a consistency suitable to be made into pills, and MISCELLANEOUS. 465 make them about the size of a common marble, . To fowls afflicted with cholera or roup give each one pill twice a day, and keep them in a warm, dry place. In forty-eight hours a cure will be effected. As a preventive when cholera prevails in the neighborhood, one pill once a week may be given to each fowl. With this recipe six- teen out of seventeen chickens attacked with cholera can be cured. PART IV. Hygiene and Medicines. CHAPTER I. THE HYGIENE OF DOMESTIC ANIMALS. Hygietu of the Horse. Food — Drink — Cleaning — Ventilor tion — "Condition Powders." Disinfection — Receipts for Disinfectants. Hygienic Rules in the Fattening of Animals. " Cattle Powders" and " Condimental Foods." Diets for Fattening, The purposes for which domestic animals are kept differ widely when we consider the horse on tlie one hand, and on the other the steer, cow, sheep and hog. The former is prized for its capacities for speed and transportation only ; the latter chiefly as they furnish food to man. Hence, the hygienic treatment of the two classes materially differ. It is alike, however, in this respect, that is, that it is designed in both cases to obtain, at the least outlay of care and money, 467 468 Hygiene and Medicines. ■ the utmost fitness for the purpose for which the animal is kept. HYGIENE OF THE HOESE. Food. — The hygiene of the horse has reference first to his food. As we have previously mentioned, the horse has but one stomach, and that not at all a large one for his size. Hence he requires food in moderate quantity, but frequently, at least every four or five hours. In regard to quality, he is best suited by a mixed diet of grain and hay. In propor- tion as the work demanded of him is arduous the proportion of the grain (whether corn, oats, peas or beans) should be increased ; whereas, when the work is not severe, and when, as in private carriage horses, it is desirable that they should present a roundness and plumpness of form, it is necessary to diminish the amount of grain, or otherwise the animal becomes plethoric, and "out of condition." Attention must also be given, in this respect, to the indi- vidual constitution of the horse. Some animals are said to be more "easily kept" than others. This usually depends on the greater perfection of their digestive organs. They as- similate all the nutriment there is in their food ; while a horse which is "hard to keep" will generally be found to pass with his evacuations a considerable percentage of undigested ali- ment. A remedy for the latter condition will often be found in selecting food of a rather constipating character, giving it well ground, so that the digestive fluids will act on it easily, keeping the teeth in good repair, allowing but a moderate quantity of water, and if called for, by administer- ing a light tonic. A very important point in such cases is to keep the skin active, by brushing, washing and clipping. Those who would raise a fine breed of horses should pay especial attention to the food of mares during pregnancy. Messrs. Seller & Stephens, in their excellent treatise on Hygiene of the Horse. 469 The Physiology of the Farm, lay it down as a well estab- lished fact that any, even a temporary, failure in the quantity or quality of the food of the dam at this period will surely prove the source of some one or another defect of the foal, and perhaps lay the foundation for some serious vice of the constitution, which may affect its value throughout life. The food should not be rich, nor fattening, as a condition of plethora or obesity is always injurious to the fetus j yet the nourishment should be somewhat more abundant than in the ordinary condition. Moderately rich pastures, fairly set in any of the better class of grasses in summer, and clean, well cured hay, with medium quantities of grain in winter, should be the diet of the pregnant mare. Drink. — The average horse varies in the amount of water he will consume daily, from two buckets to five or six. It should be given at regular intervals and those not far apart. Three times a day is not frequently enough. Double that fre- quency would be more correct. When the horse is in active use he should not be allowed to drink to repletion at any time, except in the evening, after the day's work is done, and when the hide has cooled to the ordinary temperature. The water selected should be pure, soft, and cool. Hard water, however, agrees well with horses which are accus- tomed to it, and their bowels are as apt to be disturbed on changing to soft water as are those of animals accustomed to the latter when first placed upon that which is hard. Es- pecial care should be taken that the water does not contain decaying animal or vegetable matter. Various instances have been reported where whole stables have been sickened by water containing these organic impurities. Cleaning. — All horses are better for cleanliness, both as res- pects their stables and their coats. When well groomed, the secretion of the skin is more active, and the internal organs are not nearly so liable to congestion. An exception to this is 470 Hygiene and Medicines. made by some horsemen, when a horse has been driven through muddy roads. It appears that it is better to allow the mud to dry on his coat before removing it, and then not comb or wash it off, but remove it by brushing only ; other- wise the skin is liable to crack. (See page 211). Ventilation. — In many stables, especially in cities, there is great neglect of proper ventilation. The air in the stalls in the morning is close, hot and foul. Consequently, the animals easily take colds and sore throats, and recover slowly. Fresh and pure air is one of the greatest safeguards to the health of the lower animals, as of man, and often attention to this alone will do away with the need of tonics and condition powders. It is unnecessary to enter into the various details of ventila- tion, as their excellence often depends upon the structure and position of the particular building. "CONDITION POWDEES." Under this name large quantities of secret preparations are sold throughout the country, the avowed object of which is to restore to vigor horses which are " out of condition," and to increase the appetite and fattening capacities of stall-fed steers, sheep, etc. The great majority of these powders do more harm than good. They are composed of stimulating and heating substances, and indiscreetly administered, by persons ignorant of their composition, they often give for a time a fallacious appearance of health and vigor to the animal, followed by prostration and disease. We warn against their use, and will here give simple and efficient substitutes for them, which can be bought at much less cost. But, first, let us inquire what we mean by saying that an animal is "out of condition?" The term is applied to two very different states of the system. One, and the more common, is where the animal has been Well fed and cared for, and is sleek and seemingly robust. Condition Powders. 471 But he becomes capricious about his food, the appetite is variable and generally lessened, the eye is dull, and sometimes yellowish and bloodshot, the motions languid, there is an absence of " fire," the bowels are bound, the dung dry, the temper is irritable, and there is a general want of " tone." Now, this is nothing else than what medical men call a state of "plethora;" there is a formation of superfluous blood and fat, owing to a too rich and abundant diet, and an insuffi- ciency of exercise and pure air. Usually medicine of any kind is superfluous. If the diet is changed to a poorer one, and diminished in quantity, and if abundance of exercise is given, these symptoms will soon pass away. If they do not, small doses of aloes (2 to 4 drs.) should be given twice a week ; and an ounce of saltpetre placed in the water about as often. These agents act on the bowels aud kidneys, and will soon relieve the overloaded system. The second form of loss of condition is seen in hard- worked and often underfed horses. The coat is rough and staring, the skin dry and harsh, often hide-bound, the bowels are irregular, and the strength diminished. Even good care and food may fail to bring back the vigor and spirit of the animal. What now is to be done? The treatment is suggested by the cause of this impairment of the health. Nearly always it is a form of indigestion. The secretory organs must first be restored to activity. The coat should be brushed, clipped and washed ; an ounce of saltpetre should be given every other day, in a mash, to excite the kidneys; the bowels cleaned out with a moderate dose of aloes ; and soft, easily digested food given. If this does not bring the animal to condition in ja, fortnight, then we should have recourse to that wonderful tonic for the equine race, arsenic. This powerful drug has been greatly abused in veterinary medicine ; but it is of the utmost value in mariy cases, and this is one of them. It may be given in one-ounce doses of 472 Hygiene and Medicines. Fowler's solution of arsenic, every other day ; or, in many instances, it works still more efficaciously if combined with iodide of potash — No. 461. Fowler's solution of arsenic, J oz. Iodide of potash, J oz. Water, 1 pint. Mix into a draught, with water or gruel. Of the various condition powders which have been recom- mended, many are hurtful, on account of the warm and bitter tonics they contain. Scientific practitioners do not approve of these additions, and they should be avoided with especial care when the animal is changing its coat. At times, as stimulants to the general functions, we may use one of the following ; but none of them should be continued for a length of time, nor repeated very frequently : — No. 462. Flowers of sulphur. Cream of tartar, Saltpetre, of each } oz. Mix, and give in the food. No. 463. Black antimony, i\h. Flowers of sulphur, 2 lbs. Common salt. lib. Powdered liquorice, Jib. Fenugreek, ; lb. Mix. Give a tablespoonful every day or two. This is an old formula, and an example of a kind which has been much overpraised. Black antimony is an uncertain, coarse drug, not at all deserving of its reputation in veterinary medicine. No. 464. Sulphurated antimony, 1 oz. Nitrate of potash, 8 oz. Flowers of sulphur, 12 oz. Mix, and give a tablespoonful every 2 or 3 days. This antimonial ■^ preparation is superior to the one above given. Other materials of local popularity in the stable are nu- merous. In Eastern Pennsylvania, one of the most prized is the Virginia snakeroot [Aristolochia serpentaria), a tonic and stimulant indigenous vegetable, often used as a house- hold remedy. A cold infusion is prepared by steeping a Condition Powders. 473 handful in a quart of water, and a tumblerful is poured over the grain or hay once a day. Another favorite is willow bark. The inner bark of the young shoots is boiled in the proportion of a handful to the quart of water, and a tumblerful of this administered daily. As the willow bark contains the bitter principle known as scdicin, which is an excellent tonic and appetizer, no doubt this is an efficient plan to correct dull and drooping horses. In the army gunpowder had the reputation of being a powerful stimulant for horse flesh, and occasionally we have heard of a spoonful being mixed with the forage, to instill life into broken-down nags. As all the materials of which it is composed, the nitre, the charcoal and the sulphur, are well known and often-used stimulants and correctives in veterinary medicine, their combination may, very likely, have a happy effect. It is recommended to mix the gun- powder with the whites of several eggs, and give it as a drench. Whichever of these tonics is used, it should not be often repeated, as such a course will surely bring about obstinate dyspeptic troubles, and general deterioration of the health. DISINFECTION. For the prevention of diseases, especially for checking the spread of epidemic diseases, no measure is more important than thorough disinfection. Every stable, every farm, should have in store, and freely use, some disinfecting mixture. It should be constantly employed as a preventive of disease, as a purifier of the air and of the discharges, and often as a means of keeping away flies and insects. We give below the formulas of a number of the most efficient and cheap disinfectants, so that the reader can buy the materials and make the mixtures himself, and thus save the increased cost he would have to pay by buying them ready made. 474 Hygiene and Medicines. It has been found by experience that no one substance acts so effectually by itself as it does in combination or solution. The following are in the solid form of powders : — No. 465. Copperas (sulphate of iron), Plaster-of-Paris, ground, Carbolic acid. 300 parts. 100 parts. 2 parts. Mix well together. No. 466. Copperas, White vitriol, Plaster-of-Paris, 20 parts. 1 part. 86 parts. Mix. No. 467. Copperas, Common salt. Flowers of sulphur. 6 lbs. 4 lbs. 2 lbs. Mix. This costs about 14 cents per pound. Excelsior disinfectant. It has been sold as No. 468. Air -slacked lime, 1 bushel. Copperas, 1 lb. Carbolic acid, J lb. Mix. This has been sold as " carbolate of lime." It costs about 50 cents a busheL The following are in the liquid form : — No. 469. Chloride of aluminum, 1| lbs. Water, 1 gaUon. Dissolve. This is known as " chloralum," and was introduced hj Prof. Gamgee. It is not poisonous, and has no smell. The cost is about 50 cents. No. 470. White vitriol (zinc sulphate) 1 oz. Carbolic acid, J oz. Water. 1 gallon. Mix. A cheap and efficient disinfecting wash. No. 471. Sulphate of iron, 16 oz. Chloride of zinc, . 8 oz. Water, 1 gallon; Dissolve. This is a powerful disinfectant. Cost about $1.00 pM gallon. A pint of it, mixed with a gallon of water, is abundantly strong enough. It is poisonous. Hygiene of Fattening. 475 HYGIENIC RTJIES FOR THE FATTENING OF ANIMALS. The farmer and stock raiser will economize his food supply, and have his stock ready for market sooner, by pay- ing attention to the physiology of the fattening process and the chemistry of food. It is not a part of our present task to enter into a discussion of these questions, but there are certain points relating to the preservation of the health of animals at such times which we shall touch upon, and which it is of essential importance for stock owners to consider. Eegularity in the hours of giving food is one of the secrets of success in economically fattening animals. The digestive organs become accustomed to doing their work at recurrent intervals, and they enjoy a period of repose between these periods, which fits them the better to perform their function when called upon. The English rule in fattening oxen is to feed four times a day, usually at 7, 10, 2 and 6 o'clock. Eegularity in the quantity of food is another secret. About the same amount of labor should be demanded of the stomach at each daily period of feeding. To fatten an ox, the English estimate is, that he requires, at first, five, and later four per cent, of his weight of cured hay or mixed food per day. This amount should be divided equally in four meals. Abundance of fresh air and moderate exercise should not be neglected. We are aware that many of the farmers of the Eastern States, celebrated for their stall-fed cattle, chain them in dark stalls for months at a time, without paying any attention to the precepts we speak of. It is also true that, thus shut up, the animals lay on fat faster than they would if allowed the range of the barn yard. But it is also a fact that experience has over and over proven that such animals are peculiarly liable to fatal contagious disorders, and the extra loss so entailed will more than counterbalance, in' the long run, the food economized by this plan. 476 Hygiene and Medicines. The wisest of all systems of fattening is bj keeping the animals in what the English call Tiammels, that is, small pens to accommodate two oxen, one-half of which is roofed and walled, so as to afford entire protection from inclement weather, while the other half is open. The animals are thus in a measure isolated from contagion ; they have abun- dance of fresh and pure air; and while they have just enough room to obtain this, they are sufficiently confined to prevent them wasting their fat in running. When, through stall feeding, an animal becomes plethoric? loses his appetite, and the food taken does not increase the weight as it should, it is well to change the character of the food to a j)lainer kind, for two or three days, and give an alterative powder, as — No. 472. Nitrate of potash, Sulphur, in powder, Ginger, of each, 2 oz. Mix. Give in molasses and water. For a steer. When the appetite improves, small quantities of food, at regular intervals, should be offered, and if any is left in the manger, it should at once be removed. CATTLE POWDEES AND CONDIMEirrAL FOOD. Various "cattle powders" and "fattening powders" are sold throughout the country, claiming to increase the deposit of fat in animals, and thus economize the food supply. They are always composed of much the same materials, variously disguised, to wit : of some of the stomachic and car- minative seeds — aniseed, carraway seed, fennel seed, coriander seed, ginger or mustard seed ; of some vegetable tonic — as gentian, Virginia snake root, willow bark, cascarilla, etc.; of one or more of the alteratives — sulphur, nitrate of potash, com- mon salt, etc. ; and perhaps of a mineral tonic, as copperas ; the whole colored with turmeric and mixed with meal. As the fla- Condimental Food, 477 vor is agreeable to cattle, they eat their food with more eager- ness when thus spiced, and the compound seems to restore their appetite when it has been failing. The tonics and alteratives may also act, occasionally, favorably on the system ; but, as we have previously urged, the habitual use of any such mix- tures will entail unfortunate results on the health of the stock. In England fortunes have been made by selling what are called "condimental foods." These are ground feeds of various kinds, to which palatable and stimulating sub- stances have been added. Horses, cattle and sheep con- sume them greedily ; and added to their ordinary provender from time to time, their use is no doubt often productive of benefit ; but by no means to the extent that the exaggerations of their advertisers would have us believe. The general composition of these foods may be seen from the following receipt, which is given by Dr. Charles A. Cameron, in his Stock Feeder's Manual, as making a mixture equal, if not superior, to any secret combination for the purpose there is in the market. The quantities given make one ton : — No. 473. Linseed meal, 800 lbs. Ground beans. 925 " Indian com meal, 433 " Powdered turmeric, " ginger, " fenugreek, " gentian, " coriander seed, 30 " 3 " 2 " 10 " 2 « Cream of tartai*, Flowers of sulphur. 20 " 10 " Common salt, 5 " 25^40 " DIETS FOB FATTENING. The direct use of fats and oils has been found, in England, to be a great aid to the speedy and economical fattening of animals. An ounce of fish oil, daily, to a sheep or pig, or a half pint to a steer, will increase the accumulation of fat so 478 Hygiene and Iledicines. rapidly that the cost of the substance is much more than re- turned to the owner. Probably any of the mild fixed oils, as linseed, lard, 6r cotton seed oil, will answer as well, and as in some sections they are very cheap, the use of them should be encouraged. Oil cake is an excellent fattening material. A.S a healthful and typical fattening mixture for the ox, Messrs. Lawes and Gilbert recommend the following : — No. 474. Crushed oil cake, 8 lbs. Chopped clover hay, - 13 lbs. Turnips, 47 lbs. This amount is given daily, in four divided portions, to an ox weighing about fourteen hundred pounds, and will in- crease him in weight at the rate of tsventy pounds per week. In feeding Indian corn or peas it is important to give pigs a supply of some mineral substance, the grain not con- taining sufficient for keeping them in a healthy condition. Their breathing becomes labored, and they become "bloated," with occasionally local swellings of the glands at the sides of the neck. For this, Mr. Harris recommends that a trough containing the following mixtm'e be placed in the pen, and the pigs be allowed to take it as they wish : — No. 475. Finely-sifted coal ashes, 20 lbs. Common salt, 4 lbs. Superphosphate of lime, 1 lb. In all cases they should have an abundance of pure water to drink, be kept clean by washing and change of litter, weekly, and have a stye with a tight roof, to protect them from the sun and storms. Instead of a mud hole to wallow in, there should be a heap of dry coal ashes, charcoal, or clean, dry earth, in one corner of the pen. This will keep them free from lice and fleas. A frequent mistake is in giving too much food at once. Double the quantity of food is often required to fatten an animal, when it is given irregularly, and in large quantities. Small amounts at regular intervals are far more economical. Treatment of Poisoning, 479 CHAPTER II. POISONS AND THE TEEATMENT OF POISONING. General Rules for the Treatment of Poisoning. Vegetable Poisons : — Aloes- — Castor and Oroton Seeds — Dia- eased and Spoiled Foods — Eupatorium — Hellebore — Laurel — Poisonous Mushroooms — Opium — Ranunculus — Savin — St. John's Wort — Tobacco — Turpentine — Stramonium. Mineral and Chemical Poisons: — Acids — Alkalies — Alco- hol— Arsenic — Brine — Corrosive Sublimate — Creasote— Lead — Mercury — Strychnine — Tartar Emetic. Cases of poisoning in the lower animals are usually owing to accident, in forcing down excessive doses of dangerous drugs as medicine ; or design, when an enemy seeks to re- venge himself on the owner by poisoning his stock ; or to animals consuming with their food some noxious plant or other injurious agent. Often, especially in the second and third of these cases, it IS not known really what poison has been taken. In these, and, in fact, in nearly all cases of poisoning, it is safe prac- tice to act at once, in accordance with the following rules : — 1. Administer at once a full dose (one to three pints) of some bland oil, as sweet, cottonseed, lard, or linseed oil. 2. Follow the oil with repeated doses of lime water, or powdered chalk, whiting, or powdered charcoal, mixed with water or mucilage to the consistency of thin syrup. 3. If great exhaustion and sinking follow, and signs of drowsiness, without inflammation of the stomach, give whisky or other spirits freely. 4. Move the bowels by active injections (as No. 91.) For purposes of treatment, poisons may be most con- veniently divided into Vegetable Poisons and Mineral and Chemical Poisons. 480 Treatment of Poisoning. YE6ETABLE POISONS. AIOGSa- — The extensive use of tlils strong purgative in veterinary practice has led to many cases where animals have died from its effects. The symptoms are those of excessive purging. The feces become scanty, bloody, and expelled with violent straining. The pulse is rapid, the legs and ears cold, the mouth hot and dry, and the belly bloated and painful. The treatment consists in giving a ftill dose of opium, say two ounces of laudanum in a quart of linseed tea, repeating it in two hours if neces- sary ; and throwing a like quantity up the rectum. Castor Seeds; Croton Seeds. — Both these seeds act as purgatives on the horse and ox, and swallowed in large quantities bring about violent and dangerous action of the bowels. The treatment is the same as directed under Aloes. Diseased and Injured Foods.— Foods which have been "spoiled," or have undergone fermentation and partial decay, are liable to bring on attacks of diarrhea, inflammation of the stomach and bowels, obstinate constipation, and other symptoms. Among these musty and sunburnt hay is a common cause of colic, dyspepsia and stomach staggers. The animal loses flesh and strength, the eye is yellow, the urine dark, and violent attacks of giddiness, and even frenzy may supervene. To relieve these symptoms, full doses of purgatives should be given by the mouth and rectum, the diet changed, and the strength supported by tonics and stimulants. Mouldy oats are liable to produce diabetes or profuse staleing. The symptoms and treatment of this complaint are given on page 164. Straw which is rusty has an injurious effect on animals, rendering them thin and sickly, subject to epidemic diseases, and lessening their vigor. The fungus growth called ergot is found chiefly in rye and Indian corn. The consumption of such grain in quantities, for a long time, is very sure to bring on injurious results. The animals have ragged coats, their teeth loosen, they lose flesh, and are peculiarly liable to fatal impaction of the third stomach, as we have mentioned on a previous page (296), where we referred to a very severe epidemic that pre- vailed in the Mississippi Valley some years ago, and which was distinctly traced to this cause. The usual symptoms of the condition known as ergotism are a dull, stupid expression, staring look, dilated pupils of the eyes, staggers and stupidity ; with these are twitchings and spasms, especially of the muscles of the hind limbs, passing into palsy. The temperature, as felt on the horns, ears and legs, is below the normal, Treatment of Poisoning. 481 the pulse is slow and weak ; sores are slow in healing ; and there may be a discharge from the nose. Half rotten turnips and cabbages, and potatoes which have the blight or rot, should not be fed to stock. Their nutritive power is lost, and not unfrequently they bring on colic and diarrhea. EupatOrium. — The white snakeroot has been alleged to be the cause of milk sickness or trembles. But, as ve have said in discussing that disease (page 304) , the evidence to this effect is insufficient. HellGbOTG. — White Hellebore, or Indian Poke ( Veratrum album), grows over large sections of the United States. It is an active, narcotic, irritant poison, especially the root, and instances of poisoning from i* have been reported. The treatment is by full doses of whiskey, by which means the symptoms will be promptly dispersed. Laurel. — The sheep's laurel {Kalmia angiistifoUa) is believed to be poisonous to sheep when they eat its leaves, berries or branches. The plant grows abundantly in th6 Middle States. The poisonous prin- ciple which it contains is allied to prussic acid. The proper treatment of poisoning by this means is to administer stimulants, as whisky or gin, freely, and promote the action of the bowels, by purges and injections. Mushrooms. — The poisonous species of mushrooms seem to be avoided by the lower animals. Yet some instances of fatal results from their consumption have been known. The antidotes used are oil, stimulants and solution of ammonia. OpI Um. — The extensive use of this vegetable product in medicine has led to frequent cases of poisoning from it. It requires, indeed, considerable quantities. From one to two ounces prove poisonous to the horse, but cattle can sustain several times this amount. The symp- toms from opium poisoning are, in the first stage — restless twitching of the ears and tail, hot extremities, quick and full pulse, rapid breathing ; i n the second stage, which comes on after one or two hours, there are — giddiness and sleepiness, an unsteady gait, red eyes, partial palsy, cold sweats, and gradual sinking into stupor or convulsions. For the treatment of such cases, very strong coffee should be given, for a drench, a pint at a time, with a gill of whisky, and repeated at short intervals. The animal should be kept in active motion, and if these measures promise to fail, atropia, the natural antidote of opium, should be injected beneath the skin. Cold water, poured on the head from a height of ten or twelve feet, for ten or fifteen minutes at a time, is an effectual means of dispelling the sleepiness which comes from opium. 482 Treatment of Poisoning. Ranunculus. — All the varieties of Ranunculus are acrid and irri- tating. The celery-leaved crowfoot, Ranunculus sceleratus, has a bad reputation in this country, as poisonous to sheep and other stock, when eaten by them. The eyes of the animals roll, the breathing becomes laborious, they are giddy, turn round and round, and may drop suddenly dead. At other times, loss of appetite, quick pulse, staring coat, and the other symptoms of acute inflammation of the bowels follow its use. In the latter class of cases a full purge of linseed and castor oil is required ; in the former, an ounce of ether, in milk, will often dissipate the nervous symptoms, and give time for an active purge to carry off the offending substance. Savin. — The oil and powder of savin are largely and sometimes indiscreetly, used in domestic veterinary pharmacy. When given in excessive doses, they give rise to severe colic, loss of appetite, fever, and constipation, followed by a bloody and exhausting diarrhea. The treat- ment is to administer full doses of sweet or linseed oil, with one to three ounces of laudanum, and support the strength by doses of an ounce of ether in a pint of milk. St. John's Wort. — This common weed, the S?/pencMm^eiybr- atuni, is charged, and probably justly, with irritating and producing sores on horses, cattle and sheep, especially such as have white feet and noses — the skin of such being more tender and irritable. Dr. William Darlington, the late eminent botanist of Pennsylvania, says: "The dew which collects on the plant seems to become acrid. I have seen the backs of white cows covered with sores, wherever the bushy ends of their tails had been applied, after draggling through the St. John's wort." The noses of sheep are often found to be sore, from this cause. The treatment is to wash the s6res clean, and cover them with wood tar or petroleum, which heals and counteracts the acridity of the plant. Stramonium. — The Jimson or Jamestown weed is a commpn plant in the Atlantic states, and, in fact, in all quarters of t\e world — along roadsides, on dung heaps, etc. It is a narcotic and irritant poison, although the herbivora can take considerable quantities of it without serious results. Two pounds and a half of the seeds have been known to kill a horse. The symptoms are giddiness, faintness and delirium, followed by convulsions, palsy and stupor. The stomach and intestines are inflamed, the bowels constipated or passing bloody feces, and the colic is severe. The treatment is by full doses of sweet or lin- seed oil, containing two to four ounces of laudanum, injections, and supporting the strength by ether or whisky. Treatment of Poisoning. 483 Tobacco. — Horses and oxen will eat green tobacco without suffer- ing from it ; but six pounds of cured tobacco have been known to kill a cow. Goats, on the other hand, have been seen to eat cigars and dried tobacco leaves with apj^arent enjoyment. The poisonous results are manifested in herbivorous animals by violent purgation, with very offen- sive feces, pain in the belly and wind colic. The pulse is weak, the coat staring, the extremities cold. There is great prostration, foaming at the mouth, and convulsions or stupor. The treatment is, to administer active purgatives, followed by fiill doses of whisky, in slippery elm bark mucilage, or linseed tea. Turpentine. — The chief injurious efiFect of turpentine is upon the Kidneys, in producing strangury. The proper treatm-jnt has been considered on page 162. MINEBAL AND CHEMICAL POISONS. Acids. — The so-called mineral acids — sulphuric, nitric and muri- atic acids, and the concentrated vegetable acids, are all caustic and irritant poisons. They would never be taken willingly by an animal, but may be forced down, through ignorance, error or design. Their antidotes are full doses of alkalies, such as powdered chalk, whiting or lime water. These should be promptly administered, and followed by sweet or linseed oil. AllcalieS. — Quicklime, caustic potash, concentrated lye, washing soda, etc., are destructive agents to the tissues. When taken internally, they must be counteracted by acids, the handiest of which is usually vinegar and water. This should be freely taken, and followed by a purge of oil. AiCOhOl. — Haifa pint of pure alcohol will kill a horse, as experi- ments have demonstrated ; but of the commercial article much larger doses can be tolerated. A form of chronic alcoholic poisoning has been noticed in horses which have frequently been dosed with whisky to keep up their strength. The only treatment needed is to suspend the use of the agent. Arsenic. — From the extensive use made of this drug in veterinary pharmacy, instances of poisoning by it are not uncommon. Forty grains of it in solution is a fatal dose for a horse. Both horses, sheep and cattle have been killed in numbers, from pasturing in a field over which sheep had been allowed to run just after being dipped in an arsenical solution. The symptoms are : violent pain in the bowels, purging and straining ; intense thirst, quick, feeble pulse, irregular 484 Treatment of Poisoning. breathing ; reddish urine, low temperature, faintness, palsy, convulsions, and death. Sometimes a frothy mucus comes from the mouth and nose, the eyes are jaundiced and the skin discolored. The treatment for herbivorous animals is to give full doses of oily purgatives. With these may be joined several spoonfuls of iron rust, which forms with the arsenic a harmless salt. The carbonate of iron is a more activ6 form. BrinG. — it is not generally known that a formidable poison ia developed in the brine in which flesh and fish are steeped, after standing a few months. About two quarts of such brine will kill a horse, and a pint and a half will destroy a pig or goat. The symptoms are sick stomach, giddiness and apoplexy ; the jaws twitch and the animal foams at the mouth. Death may take place in eight hours. The treatment is by active purges and stimulants. Corrosive Sublimate. — The corrosive chloride of mercury, commonly known as corrosive sublimate, is one of the most active and fatal poisons in veterinary pharmacy. It should always be used with the utmost caution. A quarter of an ounce of it will kill a horse or an ox, and half that amount will destroy a sheep or pig. The symptoms are : violent pain in the belly ; intense thirst ; total loss of appetite ; diarrhea, with offensive and bloody discharges ; cough ; trembling, salivation, stupor and death. The treatment is to pour down the whites of a dozen eggs, stirred up with a little warm water ; followed by linseed tea, mucilage of slippery elm bark, and a slop diet for some days. CreSISOte. — This medicinal agent is actively corrosive and caustic. In cases of poisoning by it the general treatment advised on page 427 should be resorted to. Lead • — Sugar of lead and litharge are both poisonous forms of this mineral. Lead poisoning is also common among horses and cattle in the vicinity of smelting works, where minute particles of lead, car- ried up the flues of the furnaces, are blown by the wind over the pastures, and taken up by the animals in eating the grass. The^ refuse of cities, when used as a fertilizer, generally contains pieces of sheet lead and painted articles which contaminate the pasturages, and produce chronic and fatal lead poisoning in the stock. The supply of water may also be charged with soluble salts of lead in passing through conducting pipes of that material, and lead to the same result. The symptoms of lead poisoning are loss of appetite, staring coat, arched back, an anxious expression, with sometimes foaming at the mouth, and a protruding tongue. This is followed by staggers, which Treatment of Poisoning. 485 may be dull and sleepy, but are more often of tlie mad variety, tlie ani- mal running violently and blindly, dashing his head right and left, and ■wearing himself out in desperate and aimless courses. As a rule there are entire loss of appetite, and obstinate constipation. According to some the gums are of a gray or blue color, owing to a deposit of lead under the membrane. The treatment should be a large dose of a purgative, in cattle and sneep either Epsom or Glauber salts, aided by a large, stimulating injec- tion in the rectum. When this has well acted, an ounce or two of iodide of potash, every day, for a week, will counteract the effect of the lead yet in the system. Mercury. — We have already spoken of the corrosive chloride of mercury under Corrosive Sublimate. Calomel may also be given with poisonous effects, especially if it is frequently repeated. The animal is salivated, and a diarrhea sets in which cannot be checked, and the creature dies, from prostration and low fever. Blue ointment, un- guentum, or mercurial ointment, is in some sections very much used for scab, and to destroy lice and ticks. Many thousands of sheep have been destroyed, or seriously injured by this dangerous and needless remedy. Death often occurs about the eighth or ninth day after the ointment has been applied. The symptoms are of suffocation and con- gestion of the lungs, sometimes with salivation, loosening of the teeth, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. The treatment of such a condition is the preventive one of using some innocent insecticide, a number of which we have given in the appropriate place. StrychninO. — This potent and rapid poison is also a valuable medicine, but must be administered cautiously. Ten grains are more than enough to kill a horse. The symptoms produced are : violent agi- tation and trembling ; stiffness and jerking of the limbs ; violent general spasms, the limbs rigid, the back bent, the respiration checked ; inter- vals of rest occur, but a slight noise, or touching the animal, will excite the fits again. Paroxysm follows paroxysm until the animal dies exhausted. In the treatment, little can be done besides following out the general rules given on p. 427 and keeping the animal in a darkened and i-oomy box stall, and perfectly quiet. Tartar EmOtiCa — Fe'^ remedies have been more recklessly ad- ministered in veterinary pharmacy than this one, and, doubtless, vastly more harm than good has come of it. It is actually poisonous. Two to four ounces will kill a horse, though cattle can sustain twice as much. The symptoms of poisoning are, vomiting, diarrhea, staggers, thirst, 486 Treatment of Poisoning. salivation, faintness, cold skin, colic, convulsions, palsy and death. The stomach and bowels are inflamed, and the lungs congested. The treatment should commence with full doses of tannin, powdered oak bark, gallic acid, or strong tea, which are the antidotes. If vomiting and purging continue, these should be followed by draughts containing opium or laudanum. Drugs and Medicines, 487 CHAPTER III. THE MORE IMPOETANT DRUGS AND MEDICINES USED FOR ANIMALS. Alphabetical lAst of the Most Useful Drugs, with their Doses, Forms of Administration and Formulas. Classified List of Drugs, according to their Action on the System, with Explanations. Drugs are the physician's tools, and whoever would qualify himself for the physician's business must obtain a certain degree of familiarity with them. For the present purpose this will not demand much study. The actual number of drugs which are of real and approved value in the treatment of diseases of stock are but few. Many remedies used in man must be omitted, because they do not act similarly on the lower animals ; many others must be passed by, as they are altogether too costly to administer in the large doses required in brutes. We shall describe briefly what we consider the most desir- able remedies ; and to make their presentation as clear and as convenient as possible, we shall arrange them, first, in alphabetical order, for ready reference ; secondly, classified in groups, according to their action on the system. The dose given will, when not otherwise stated, be that suitable for a horse; cattle require about half as much again; while sheep and pigs should have about one-third as much as a horse. A table of weights and measures has been given on page 57. As many common drugs are known under several names, all these have been inserted, with references to the proper one used by apothecaries. 488 ' Drugs and Medicines. AIPHABETICAL LIST OF THE MOST TJSEFUL DRTJGS EMPLOYED IN VETERINAEY MEDICINE, WITH DOSES, FO^MS OF ADMINISTRATION, ETC. (The numbers refer to the receipts which have been giyen on previous pages.) Acetate of Ammonia Solution [Spirits of Min- dererus). — Dose 2 to 4 ounces, in water. An excellent cooling and strengthening remedy in feverish and weak conditions. For fevers of almost any kind the following are useful : — No. 476. Solution of acetate of ammonia, Epsom salts, of each, 2 oz. Chlorate of potash, 1 oz. Water, 1 qt. Give at a draught. No. 477. Solution of acetate of ammonia, Chlorate of potash. Tincture of gentian, of each, 1 oz. Water. 1 pint. For an anti-febrile mixture, in influenza and other low forms of fever in horses and cattle. Nos. 135, 163, 365. Acetate of Lead (Sugar of Uad). — See Lead, acetate of. Acetate of Zinc— see Zinc. Acetic Acid— see Vinegar. Aconite, Tincture of root of .—Dose lo to 20 drops ; for eheep and pigs, 5 to 10 drops. An active poison in large doses. In moderate ones, an excellent sedative in the early stages of all acute inflammations and fevers, such as pleurisy, inflammation of the lungs, etc. When hard-worked horses are brought in with " chill and sore throat," two doses of aconite and a mustard plaster to the throat will generally check the disease promptly. In sharp attacks of colic, and in rheumatic fever, if combined with a brisk purgative (No. 94), it will often cure promptly. The same prescription is often of great service in beginning lockjaw. Applied as a lotion, it relieves painful swellings, itching, and hastens the cure of grease, mange, and other skin erup- tions. A very good lotion for such skin diseases is — . No. 478. Tincture of arnica, " aconite, each, 1 oz. Water, 1 qt. The tincture may be used hypodermically, often with great advantage, khe dose being about one-third of that given by the mouth. Nos. 29, 94, 128, 156. Drugs and Medicines. 48 & AlCOhoL — This, either pure, or as whisky, brandy, gin, etc., is extensively used against colic, poisoning by tobacco, exhaustion from disease and over exertion, great weakness, etc. In colds and sore throats of hard-worked horses, with fever and weakness, half a tumbler of whisky every few hours will often restore them. Cows with puerperal fever, with weak heart and cold surface, are often benefited by a tumbler of whisky every two or three hours. Alcohol is much valued externally as a lotion to bruises, cuts and sores. Whisky beaten up with white of eggs is popular as a preventive of chafing in parts ex- posed to rubbing, as under the saddle, etc. Aloes. — Dose 5 to 6 drachms ; cattle double as much. Hogs can b^ar but 20 or 30 grains. One of the most popular medicines for stock. In constipation and colic it is best given in solution, as a drench. Small doses are useful in indigestion and diarrhoea. In inflammation of all kinds, whether from wounds or diseases, a dose of aloes generally proves sedative and soothing. For dropsy and watery swellings small and repeated doses are called for. It is a medicine more effective in horses than in cattle, etc. It should not be given when females are pregnant, nor when there are piles ; and in colds, influenza and inflammations of the bowels, it must be employed with caution. Given as a ball, the following is a good receipt : — No. 479. Powdered aloes, 5 drachms. Powdered ginger, 1 " Soft soap, as much as needed to make a ball. Aloin is now much used instead of aloes. The dose is a quarter as much. Nos. 20, 90, 98, 99, 100, 142, 153. Alum* — Dose 2 to 4 drachms. Astringent and sedative. Used in diarrhoea {scouring), dysentery. For irritable sore throat it is used with an atomizer or a syringe. Externally, in solution, 5 grains to the ounce, it is a healing application in inflammation of the eye and in the sores of foot and mouth disease. In powder, it is efiective for stopping the oozing of blood ; mixed with equal parts of fine, dry clay, it is excel- lent, applied to harness galls and other surface wounds ; and in strong solution removes the pain of burns and scalds. Nos. 85, 225, 266, 803. Ammonia^ Acetate of — see Acetate of Ammonia Solution. Ammonia, Carbonate of [Sartslom salt, Smelling salts). — Dose 2 to 4 drachms. A strong stimulant. The dose maybe given dissolved in a half tumbler of whisky, or made into a ball with linseed meal and water.- Valuable in influenza, erysipelas, and other weaken- ing diseases. Nos. 75, 333, 374. 490 Drugs and Medicines. Aminonia, Muriate of {Sal ammoniac). — Dose 3 to 6 drachms, given like the carbonate. Its effects are similar, but not BO powerfiil. Externally, it is a favorite application for hot swellings, bruises and strains. A good cooling mixture for this purpose is — No. 480. Sal ammoniac. Nitre, of each, 4 oz. Water, 8 oz. "Wet rags with it and keep applied to the part. Nos. 22, 247. Ammonia, Spirits of {Liquid ammonia, Spirits of harts- horn).— Principally used externally. It gives immediate relief to bites, and stings of gnats, mosquitoes, flies, wasps, etc. For snake bites it should be promptly rubbed into the bite. It is used in very many lin- iments. A good one is — No. 481. Spirits of ammonia. Oil of turpentine, Water, of each, 1 oz. Linseed oil, 4 oz. A useful stimulant draught for horses and cattle is — No. 482. Spirits of ammonia. Sweet spirits of nitre, Tincture of gentian, of each, ^ oz. Ale or beer, 1 quart To be given for great exhaustion or weakness. Nos. 103, 198. Antimony {Tartar emetic, Tartarized antimony). — Dose 1 to 4 drachms ; pigs, grains 4 to 10. This was at one time very extensively prescribed in inflammatory diseases of horses and cattle, but the best English authorities say it is entirely useless in them. In pigs it is a useful emetic, and still has credit when given in small doses (four grains), several times repeated, for keeping down inflammation. Tartar emetic ointment is a strong caustic, but should not be used ex- ternally, as it blemishes. Nos. 83, 149. Antimony, Blacic or Sulphurated.— Used as an alterative. Of uncertain action, and doubtful value. No. 372. Arnica. — Used externally as a healing remedy in strains, bruises, wounds, broken knees and sore shoulders. Useful combinations are — No. 483. Tincture of arnica, 1 drachm. Sulphate of zinc, 2 " Water, 10 oz. Drugs and Medicines. 491 Tincture of arnica, 1 drachm. Sugar of lead, 1 drachm, Water, 10 oz. No. 484. Arnica is somewhat irritant, and should be applied cautiously when the skin is broken. Internally it is valuable in chills and shivering. Nos. 159, 250, 348. Arsenic. — Dose 5 to 10 grains; sheep, 1 to 2 grains. Fowler^ s solution is a popular form for administering it. This solution contains four grains of arsenic to the ounce. Very serviceable in chronic rheumatism and skin diseases. Externally it enters into many dipping mixtures for destroying lice and other vermin on sheep. Nos. 77, 79, 179, 182, 186, 461. See page 419. ASSafetida. — Dose, horses, 3 drachms; cattle, 2 ounces; sheep, 1 drachm. Occasionally given to horses and cattle, for colic and chronic coughs. Nos. 104, 105, 153, 154, 324, 403. Belladonna. — Dose of the dried powdered leaves, 2 ounces; of the extract, 1 to 2 drachms. In influenza, sore throat, severe colds, inflammation of lungs, and the like, this is a valuable remedy. For sore throat, with noisy breathing and spasmodic cough in horses, no other medicine gives such immediate relief. Excessive sweating, from weakness, is promptly checked by a full dose. Externally it relieves irritable and painful wounds, the raw surface following frost- bite, cracks from mud fever, etc. Inflammation of almost any part of the eye is relieved by belladonna. Its active principle is atropia. This can be very neatly administered with the hypodermic syringe ; ten drops, of a solution of five grains of atropia to the ounce of water, is the proper strength for a horse, repeated as necessary. Nos. 77, 139, 157, 165, 264, 268, 273, 274. Bleaching Powder— see Lime chloride. Blistering Ointment— see Cantharides. Blue Stone, Blue Vitriol- seeCoppersuiphate. Bole Armenian. — ^ kind of clay, used formerly as a coloring ingredient ; of no medicinal value. Borax {Biborate of Sodium). — Used externally as a wash to sores and ulcers, especially in calves and lambs. The powder may be sprinkled on the part. It is a feeble irritant. No. 85. Bromide of Potassium— see Potassium. 492 Drugs and Ifedidnes, Calomel — ^^e Mercurials. Cainphor. — Dose, horses, 1 to 2 draclims ; cattle, 2 to 4 draclims; sheep and pigs, J draclim. As a sedative, it is given in chronic cough, colic, diarrhea and influenza. Externally, spirits of camphor are very ■ popular, as an application to sprains, bruises and wounds, and enter into many liniments. Nos. 77, 78, 164, 169. CantharideS (Spanish FUes, Blistering Flies). — Their use should be external, chiefly. Blisters are useful in the later stages of inflammation, and in local watery swellings and efi'usions. After an attack of pleurisy, a blister will hasten the disappearance of water from the chest. For cliecking inflammation of the jugular vein, in a horse, nothing is so prompt as a long, narrow blister along the tense, corded, swollen vessel of the neck. Slow abscesses are brought to a head by a blister. For healing obstinate, unhealthy, old ulcers, nothing so often succeeds as to apply a large blister, covering both the ulcer and an inch or so of the flesh around it. Ointments of cantharides are much employed by veterinarians for blistering purjjoses. In applying any blistering preparation, the hair should first be shaved off. The animal should be prevented from rubbing and breaking the blister when it rises. On the second day after it has been ap^Dlied, the part should be well bathed with warm water, and dressed with washed lard, oil, or unsalted butter. Liniments of cantharides are used to stimulate a part, short of blistering it. An average strength is — No. 485. Powdered cantharides, 1 oz. Linseed oil, 10 oz. To be rubbed in. Nos. 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 32, 33, 167, 234, 235, 237. Capsicum [Red pepper, Cayenne pepper) — see Pepper. Carraway SOGd* — Dose ^ oz. Used as a stomachic, with other medicines. Carbolic Acid. — Dose lO to 40 drops; sheep and pigs, 5 to 10 drops. One of the most valuable veterinary medicines. In strangles, putrid sore throat, low fevers and farcy, given in full doses, often re- peated, it greatly lessens the severity of the disease. In indigestion, dyspepsia and flatulence, it nearly always succeeds. Wounds should be freely washed with a one per cent, solution. Overreaches, quittors and troublesome ulcers, should be covered with oakum, which should be kept wet with the solution. For stings, bites, skin diseases and parasites, it has numerous applications. As an antiseptic and disin- Drugs and Iledicines. 493 fectant, and hence a preventive of disease, it should be in every barn and stable. Nos. 151, 220, 241, 279, 288, 307, 318. Castor Oil. — I^ose l pint; sheep and pigs, 3 to 4 oz., or 6 or 8 beans. A mild purgative ; efficient, though slow, in its effects. For young animals, about the best purge. When given to adult horses or cattle, it is best to combine with it half a pound of Epsom salts. Nos. 110, 180, 330, 376, 404. Catechu. — Dose J oz. A useful vegetable astringent in diar- rhea, flux, etc. Nos. 121, 131, 370, 387. Chalk — see Lime carbonate. Charcoal. — Dose 1 oz. Used for indigestion and dyspepsia, with fetid feces. It can readily be given in gruel. Externally, it may be dredged or sprinkled on foul sores. Chloral Hydrate. — Dose l to 2 ounces; sheep and pigs, 1 to 3 drachms. One of the best agents to quiet irritability and produce sleep. Used in colic, asthma, brain disease, convulsions of all kinds, etc. A solution of a drachm to the ounce is one of the best ap- plications in obstinate ulcers, old galls, wounds, etc. Can readily be injected subcutaneously. Nos. 96, 126, 243, 377. Chloride of Lime— see Lime. Chlorate of Potash— see Potash. Chloride of Sodium {Common Salt, Dairy Salt) — see Sodium Chloride. Chloroform. — Dose 1 to 2 drachms. As an^ anodyne in colic, asthma and troublesome cough. Principally used as an anaesthetic. For this purpose 2 or 3 ounces are generally suffiLcienfe for horses and cattle, 1 to 2 ounces for sheep and pigs. A SiX)nge saturated with this amount may be placed in a nose-bag and fastened to the, head, or held to the nostrils. The animal should be well secured,, as the earlier effect of chloroform is to produce a state of excitement.. Air must be allowed to enter freely with the chloroform, as its pure vapor is -poisonous. A safer though slower anaesthetic is the mixture No., 12. For internal use a mixture called chloric ether is very popular in England. It is — No. 486. Chloroform, 1 part; Pure alcohol, 19 parts. 494 Drugs and Medicines. Dose, horses, 1 ounce ; cattle, 2 ounces ; sheep and pigs, ^ ounce. Ma. Dun says such a dose, with half a teaspoonfal or a teaspoonral of laudanum, diluted with water, is one of the most effectual anti-spas- modics and nerve soothers he has ever used. Nos. 92, 139, 364. Cinchona {Peruvian Baric, Quinine). — As a tonic and for use iu fevers, no medicine equals the active principles of Peruvian bark. Unfortunately, quinine is too dear for veterinary practice. Cheaper and very efficient preparations are cinchonia and cinchonldia ; or the powdered bark itself may be used. Dose of quinine, horses and cattle, 20 to 40 grains ; pigs and sheep, 10 grains of powdered bark •, half an ounce to horses. They are used in exhaustion and debility, in scrofula, rheumatism, diabetes, sheep's rot, influenza, etc. Nos. 88, 146, 178, 194, 203, 335. Cod'liver Oil. — Dose 4 to 8 oz. An excellent tonic; valuable in exhausting diseases, especially in young animals. Nos. 132, 202. Copaiva. — Dose, as diuretic, ^ oz. to 1 oz. ; as an expectorant in coughs, 1 or 2 oz. No. 209. Copper Sulphate {Blue VitHol, Blue Stone., Vitriol of Cop- per). — Dose, horses and cattle, 1 to 2 drachms ; sheep and pigs, 10 to 20 grains. A tonic and astringent ; used solid as a mild caustic ; in large doses poisonous. Copper sulphate is much used in excessive watery or bloody discharges from the bowels. In glanders and exhaust- ing diarrheas, it is one of the best remedies. As a stimulant and caustic, it is used on inflamed eyelids, fistulous and slow healing wounds, foot rot in sheep, and the like. Copper subacetate, or verdigris, is Bometimes used like the sulphate, but is a more irritant poison, and might as well be dropped. Nos. 118, 134, 178, 180, 213, 215, 310. Copperas — see iron Sulphate. Corrosive Sublimate {Corrosive cliloride of mercury) — see Mercurials. Cream of Tartar^see Potash bitartrate. CreaSOte. — Dose 20 to 40 drops. This is made from wood tar, and is a useful preparation. It is used to check unhealthy discharges, and as an antiseptic. In farcy, nasal gleet, scouring, etc., it is given internally. Externally, it is an excellent remedy to relieve itching, destroy vermin, to dress foul wounds, and recent burns. For these pur- poses it may be used as an ointment, 1 dr. to lard 1 oz., or 1 dr. to water § pint. Nos. 120, 174, 200, 326, 398. Drugs and Iledicines. 495 CrOtOn Oil- — Dose, for a herse, 20 drops; for cattle, 50 drops; for sheep and swins, 5 to 10 drops. The oil is made from the seeds of the plant. Ten or twelve seeds is a dose for a horse. A powerful and prompt purgative, and externally a sharp irritant, producing numerous little pustules. Valuable in fardel bound, and other forms of obstinate constipation. Externally, it is used for pleurisy, pneumonia, chronic rheumatism, obstinate swellings and the like. It should not be applied to horses, as it blemishes. Nos. 89, 91, 323, 388, 375. DigitaliS' — Dose of the powdered leaves, horses, 30 grains ; sheep and pigs, 10 grains. Very useful to reduce temperature at the outset of fevers, etc., to strengthen the heart when diseased, for broken wind, and to reduce dropsy. It acts on the kidneys promptly. It may also be given in an infusion from the leaves (1 drachm of the leaves to a pint of cold water), and the active principle of the plant, digitalin, is very con- venient for hypodermic use, about one-twentieth of a grain, repeated as needed. The effects of digitalis are rather slow, not being visible some- times for 10 or 12 hours. Nos. 76, 82, 155, 167,320, 434. Epsom Salts {Sulphate of magnesia) — see Magnesium sul- phate. El'gOt. — The spur of diseased rye. Used both to hasten and facilitate the birth of animals, and to prevent abortion in dropping. Dose, for a mare or cow, 1 oz. ; for sheep and swine, 1 drachm, A simple decoction, swallowed, dregs and all, is the best form for veteri- nary practice. Ergot is also useful in bleeding from the lungs, nose, stomach or bowels. For this purpose it is best given by h}q)odermic injection of its active principle, ergotht, in five-grain doses, in solution, repeated as often as necessary. Nos. 24, 405. Page 325. EthGf [Sulphuric ether). — Used as an anaesthetic and stimulant. As an anaesthetic, the mixture recommended under chloroform Is better than ether alone. As a prompt and diffusible stimulant, the dose Is, for horses and cattle, 2 ozs, ; for sheep and pigs, \ oz. It is called for In the chills and shiverlngs which oflen usher In diseases, and is especially called for In hard-worked horses In town, when struck down liy influenza, etc. It relieves cramps, colic, stomach staggers and fainting fits. Nos. 12, 28, 95, 98, 102, 319. Fennol Seed. — Dose lto2oz. Used as a stomachic, with other medicines. Gallic A'cid. — Dose J oz. A popular vegetable astringent, ia diarrhea, etc. Nos. 122, 302. 496 Drugs and 3Iedicines. Q jflg©f, — Dose J to 1 oz. of the powder, 1 drachm of the essence. A useful stimulant and stomachic, in colic, diarrhea and exhaustion. Much employed in combination with other medicines, to prevent griping and render them more acceptable to the stomach. Nos. 121, 335. Qentian. — One of the most esteemed vegetable tonics. Dose of the powder J oz. to 1 oz. Nos. 86, 123, 189,196, 337. Glauber Salts — see Soda, sulphate of. ClyCGrinO is a cleanly and useful application for sores and galls. In cracked heels, sore mouths, harness galls and the like, it should be diluted and mixed with tannin, as follows : — No. 487. Glycerine, 8 oz. Starch, 1 oz. Tannic acid, ^ oz. The following is an excellent application to sores, old galls, burns or foul wounds : — No. 488. Glycerine, Water, of each, 4 oz. Carbolic acid, J oz. To be painted on with a brush. CualaCUm. — Used as an exi^ectorant ; one of the best, in the lower anijnals. Nos. 66, 821. Hartshorn — see Ammonia. HelleborGy Whit©. — Used as an irritant. No. 14. lodidO of Potassium — see Potassium, iodide of. Iodine. — Usually employed as the tincture. D >se 30 to 60 drops, on an empty stomach. Generally used externally, j^ainted on the skin, to reduce swellings of the joints, strains, hardenings of the udder, cold abscesses, scrofulous glands, skin diseases, and for indolent ulcers and unhealthy wounds. Nos. 81, 170, 172, 183, 202, 238, 253, 255, 315, 426. Iron J Chloride of. — The tincture of the chloride of iron is an efficient tonic, astringent and alterative. The dose is h oz., well diluted. Nos. 74, 117, 188, 203. Iron Sulphate {Oreen vitriol, copperas). — Horses, 2to3drs. Sheep, 20 grs. Astringent and tonic. Can be mixed with soft food and given several times daily, where there is want of tone of the system and tor- pidity of the bowels. It is a cheaj) and efficient toulc, but turns the feces of a black color, and gives them a disagreeable odor. After it has been Drugs and 3Iedicines. 497 given five or six days, it should be suspended for a few days, so as tc avoid irritating the stomach. Nos. 2, 152, 161, 176, 205, 322, 423, 428. Ipecacuanha. — Dose J oz. A diaphoretic and expectorant. Useful in dysentery. Not very efficacious in the herbivora. Nos. 67, 187. Laudanum— see Opium. Lead Acetate (Sugar of lead), — Dose 1 drachm ; calves, sheep, pigs, 10 to 15 grs. Used to check bleeding from the lungs and bowels, profuse scouring, red water, etc., especially when combined with opium. Externally, 5 or 10 grains dissolved in an ounce of water, it is excellent to soothe and heal burns, bruises, irritable and moist ulcers ; to cool and relieve inflamed tendons, moist skin diseases, and cracked and itching skin diseases. It has been often used as an eye wash, but for this it is not suitable, as the lead is apt to leave a perma- nent stain or film on the eye, over the cornea. Nos. 119, 226, 227, 228, 248. Limey Lime VVater (C'«^^'w?»oa:2(ie, quicMime, aquacalds). — Lime is irritant, corrosive and antacid. Lime water is made by briskly stirring four ounces of freshly burned lime in a gallon of water, letting it settle, and pouring off the clear solution. It is an excellent antacid in indigestion, hoven, and diarrhea in cattle and calves. Dose 2 to 6 ozs. Mixed with linseed oil, in equal parts, it is one of the best applications in burns and scalds, and in watery and itching skin diseases. Powdered slaked lime is used as an antacid. Dose 1 dr., mixed with moist food. Nos. 265, 385. Lime Carbonate (Caldum carbonate. Chalk). — Dose, horses, 1 to 2 ozs. ; sheep, pigs, 2 to 4 drs. One of the cheapest and most convenient antacids, much- used in indigestion, chronic diarrhea, and dysentery. May be given in milk or moist feed. Nos. 113, 116, 120, 121, 133, 385. Lime ChiOride {Chlorinated Ume, bleaching powder). — Prin- cipally used as a disinfectant. Scattered about the stable, it keeps away flies, rats and mice. Used externally for unhealthy wounds, mange and grease. Of little or no value internally. It may be advantageously mixed with equal parts of powdered sulphur. Nos. 3, 231, 312. Lunar Caustic — see Silver nitrate. Lobeiia Inflata {Indian tobacco). — Used as a nauseant and de 498 Drugs and 3Iedicines. pressant in nervous excitement, lockjaw, mad staggers, etc. Dose of the tincture, 1 ounce. Linseed. — Valuable as a diet. Nos. 6, 6. Linseed Oil. — Dose, as a cathartic, 1 to 2 pints. A bland and unirritating purge, useful in young and weakly animals. Often valuable In choking in cattle. Externally it is a soothing dressing. Nos. 89, 91. Magnesia, Sulphate of (Epsom salts, Sulphate of viag- nesia). — Dose, as a purgative in cattle, 1 to 2 pounds; calves, sheep and pigs, 3 to 6 ounces. A popular febrifuge, purgative and alterative, but not desirable as a purge for horses, as it sometimes acts very violently on them. It is, however, valuable to them in small doses, repeated, say 1 to 2 ounces, several times a day, to "cool the blood," in influenza, pneumonia, and, indeed, most febrile inflammatory disorders. It should be given in ten or fifteen times the quantity of water, and mixing it with molasses and ginger will nearly conceal the taste, and allow of giving it in soft food. Nos. 144, 145, 331, 332. Mercurials. — Mercury or quicksilver is used as Mercurial oint- ment, Mercurial liniment, Mercury with chalk [Gray Powder), Red Precipitate {Red Oxide of Mercury), Calomel {Mild Cldoride of mer- cury), Corrosive sublimate {Corrosive Chloride of mercury) and Citrine ointment {ointment of Kitrate of Mercury). — Of these we may use in- ternally, mercury with chalk, dose 15 to 20 grains, in indigestion and diarrhea in young calves ; but calomel, dose 30 to 60 grains, is gen- erally preferred, combined with chalk, magnesia or opium. Calomel is much less used now than formerly, and is mostly confined to some diseases of the stomach and bowels. Corrosive sublimate is a very valuable internal remedy in arresting the slimy, bloody discharges of chronic dysentery in cattle. Dose, horses and cattle, 5 to 8 grains ; cheep and pigs, 1 grain. Externally mercurial ointment is used as a stimulant for old sores, ulcers and swellings, and for destroying lice and vermin. But for the latter purpose other agents are better, as the mer- cury is apt to be absorbed, and to poison the animal. A weak solution of corrosive sublimate, 20 grains to the pint of water, is used for the same purpose. Citrine ointment is used in chronic skin diseases, ring- worm, etc., but is easily absorbed, and must be cautiously used. Nos. •76, 90, 147, 162, 186, 194, 234, 236, 239, 350, 383. Muriatic Acid {Hydrochloric acid. Spirit of salt\ — Dose of the diluted medicinal acid 1 to 2 drachms, in a quart of water. An ex cellent remedy, given with the food, in indigestion in lambs and calves Drugs and Medicines. 499 and in weak animals without appetite, and whicli do not thrive ; also in febrile and exhausting diseases, and in hemorrhages. May be advan- tageously combined with iron, gentian, Peruvian bark or other bitters. Externally, the strong acid is a powerful caustic ; diluted, it may be applied to ulcers with proud flesh ; and as a cheap and penetrating dis- infectant, it is suitable for pouring on carcases of diseased animals which have died of contagious diseases. No. 141. Mustard (Slnapis). — Dose ^ oz. Best given as a pill or ball. A stomachic and mild stimulant, in colic, cramps, dyspepsia, etc. Principally used externally, as the popular "mustard plaster." For ordinary purposes, it may be mixed with tepid water ; mixed with whisky or vinegar, the action is slower ; with turpentine or spirits of ammonia, the action is much more prompt and severe. The oil of mus- tard rubbed in is a strong blistering fluid. For all domestic animals, mustard plasters are admirable means of reducing inflammations, reliev- ing pain, lessening swellings and stimulating parts. Nos. 190, 395. Nitre (titrate of Potash) — see Potash nitrate. Nitrate of Silver {Lunar caustic) — see Silver Nitrate. Nitric Acid {Aqua fortis). — Dose of the dilute medicinal acid 1 to 2 drs., well diluted. Internally a stimulant and antiseptic, useful in dyspepsia, low fever, and diarrhea. The strong acid is used as a caustic for removing warts, proud flesh, etc. It Is generally applied on a splinter of soft wood. A drachm of the strong acid to a pint of water is a valu- able wash for foul sores, old ulcers, foot rot, and sloughing wounds. It is also serviceable in abating itching, nettle rash and mange. No. 229. Nux Vomica and Strychnine {Strychnia).— '&ivYch- nine is the active principle of the plant nux vomica. The dose of the powdered nux is, for horses, 1 dr., cattle, 2 drs., sheep and pigs, 20grs., given in a ball. Far more convenient is strychnine used with the hypo- dermic syringe, as — No. 489. Strychnine, 6 grains. Water, 6 drachms. Alcohol, 2 drachms. Of this ten drops contain one-tenth of a grain of strychnine, and 20 or 30 drops may be thrown at one time under the skin of the horse. Internally, a horse may take 2 grains of strychnine. Both nux and strychnia are of unequaled value in stiffened and partly paralyzed ani- mals. To be used with advantage, they must be continued and the dose 500 Drugs and 3Iedieines. increased, until the animal has twitchings of the muscles, usually first noticed at night. Nos. 31, 86, 146, 157. Oil of Tar— see Tar. Oil of Vitriol — see Sulphuric acid. Olive Oil {Sweet oil.) — Laxative and demulcent. Dose 1 to 3 pints. Opium is employed principally as powdered opium, laudanum, {tincture of opium), and morphine, which is one of its active principles. Horses and cattle can take 2 drachms of powdered opium, or 3 or 4 ozs. of laudanum, or 5 to 10 grains of morphia at a dose. An invaluable means of giving an opiate is to inject one or two grains of morphia under the skin. Calves, eheep and pigs about one-sixth of these doses. Hardly any drug has more uses than opium. It is a stimulant in exhaustion and weakness, it allays pain and restlessness, it checks excessive secretion and vomiting, it relieves the spasms of colic, dysentery, lockjaw and many convulsive diseases. It should not be given in active inflamma- tion, when the skin is hot and dry, and the pulse strong, in inflamma- tion of the brain, nor in obstinate constij^ation. Nor is it considered safe in diseases of the lungs, when the breathing is shallow and rapid. When an animal is suddenly taken with shivering and chills, a full dose of opium will often cut short the impending disease. At the very com- mencement of a cold, when the nostrils begin to run, a similar treatment will abort the attack. Nos. 73, 76, 78, 118, 119, 120, 124, 169, etc. Morphia— see Opium. Pepper, Black and Red {Capsicum, Cayenne pepper).— Dose 2 to 3 drachms. Used in indigestion and colic, and sometimes as a plaster or liniment on the skin. Less esteemed now than formerly. Petroleum {Rock oil, Seneca oil, etc). — The crude oil should be used only as an external application to galls, cuts, bruises, scratches, etc. Internally, kerosene and benzine are valuable in coughs, colds, croups, colics and intestinal obstruction. Dose 1 to 4 ounces. Benzine is said to prevent trichinae in hogs. Kerosene destroys lice. Peruvian Bark— see Cinchona. Podophyllin {TJie active principle of the May apple or Hog apple). — Dose, 1 to 3 drachms. This is an active purgative in man, but has little effect on the lower animals. It is said to be a sedative to the heart. No. 337. Drugs and Iledicines. 501 Potash, Bitartrate of {Cream of tartar).— CooVmg, laxa- tive and diuretic. Dose 2 or 3 ounces, well diluted in water. Nos. 108, 161. Potash, Bromide of.— Dose i ounce to 1 ounce. A seda- tive, to allay nervous excitement. Nos. 25, 187. Potash, Bicarbonate and Carbonate.— Dose i ounce to 1 ounce. An alkali, sometimes used in indigestion. Potash, Iodide of. — Dose I ounce to 1 ounce. Prescribed in chronic rheumatism, scrofulous enlargements, chronic coughs, and to cause absorption in pleurisy and inflammation of the lungs. Nos. 75, 81, 140, 170, 173. Potash, Nitrate of {^Hre, Saltpetre). — Dose ^ ounce to 1 ounce. An alterative, febrifuge and diuretic. Much used in condition powders, febrile complaints, dropsy and inflammations. Externally, it is added to cooling lotions. Nos. 78, 79, 160. Potash, Chlorate of. — Dose 2 to 4 drachms. Useful in fevers, inflammation and sore throats. Externally as a wash to foul ulcers, etc. Nos. 66, 84, 106, 311. Quinine — see Cinchona. Salicylic Acid. — Dose, l to 2 drachms. A valuable antiseptic and febrifuge. In all descriptions of wounds it arrests putrefaction, lessens pain and hastens healing. A convenient solution for external use is — No. 490. Salicylic acid, Borax, each, 10 grains. Water, 1 oz. Apply on rags, tow or oakum. In acute rheumatic fever the dose above given, repeated three or four times a day, will generally greatly hasten the cure. No. 192. Saltpetre — see Potash nitrate. Silver, Nitrate of {Lunar caustic). — Dose, internally, 5 k) 6 grains, made into a ball. For external purposes small sticks of the fused nitrate are sold ; or an ointment may be made, 5 to 10 grains to the ounce cf water; or a solution, of any desired strength. The antidote is common salt, which should be at band to check the over-action of the caustic. Internally, it is a tonic, stimulant and astringent, useful in diarrhea, dysentery, cholera and wasting fevers. It is generally used externally. £9 502 Drugs and Medicines. As a caustic it removes jDroud flesh, warts and angleberries, and freshens the surface of obstinate sores. For sore teats, foot rot and the like, it is an excellent application. Nos. 27, 129, 224. SOdp. — Common soft soap, well rubbed in several times, is often a cure of skin disease. It is also popular in clysters and liniments. Hard soap is much employed in making liniments, ointments, balls, etc. Nos. 207, 209. Soda, Bicarbonate of {Baking soda). — Dose i to 1 oz. i.n excellent alkali. Nos. 86, 123, 192. Soda Bisulphite of. — Dose ^ to l oz., as a disinfectant inter- nally. Nos. 113, 281, 313. Soda, Chioride of {Common salt). — Dose, as a purgative to the ox, 1 lb.; sheep, 1 to 3 ozs. In large doses salt is an efficient purga- tive for these animals, but should not be given for this purpose to the horse, as its action is uncertain and violent. In small doses it is a digestive stimulant and stomachic. Nos. 87, 151. Spanish Flies — see Cantharides. Strychnine. — Dose 3 to 4 grains to a horse. A powerful tonic and nervous stimulant. Nos. 30, 80. Sugar of Lead — see Lead acetate. Sulphate of Magnesia— see Magnesium sulphate. Sulphate of Strychnia. Sulphur {Brimstone). — Dose, as a laxative, 4 to 6 ozs. ; as an alterative, 1 to 2 ozs. Its value as such is not very great. Externally, sulphur ointments are very popular for vermin and parasitic skin dis- eases. Nos. 108, 161, 190, 283, 290, 291, 351. Sulphuric Acid {Oil of vitriol). — Dose of the medicinal acid 1 to 2 drachms ; as an external wash 20 drops of the strong acid to 1 oz. of water. Used in a similar manner to Nitric and Muriatic acids, which see. Nos. 4, 184, 191, 216, 363. Sulphurous Acid. — Dose of the medicinal solution 1 to 2 ozs. One of the cheapest and best antiseptics. The acid is evolved in b gaseous state by burning sulphur. Flour of sulphur sprinkled on a shovelful of hot coals will evolve it rapidly, and a stable can thuc be Drugs and Medicines, 503 thoroughly purified. The medicinal acid is an excellent soottinj application to irritable wounds. It can be used with the atomizer. No 1 Sweet Oil — see Olive oil. Sweet Spirits of Nitre.— Dose l to 2 ozs. A stimulant, •diuretic and antiseptic. Valuable in indigpstion, colic, low fever, inflammatory diseases and kidney disorders. T3nniC Acid. — Dose 10 to 20 grains. A powerful astringent in diarrhea and mucous discharges. Used as an 'njection for the whites, to relaxed membranes. Nos. 69, 115, 125. Tar. — Largely used as an external dressing to wounds, chaps, galls, mallenders, grease, ringworm, foot rot, etc. Internally, it is a vermi- fuge, and benefits chronic cough. Dose ^ to 2 '^zs. Tar ointment is made by mixing equal parts of tar and lard at a gentle heat; tar water, by pouring a gallon of boiling water on a pint of t.ir, stirring and letting it settle. Oil of tar is an impure turpentine, obrnined from distilling tar ; it is iised for sheep dips, etc. It is an excellent antiseptic. Nos. 212, 216, 246, 293, 285. Tartar Emetic— see Antimony. Tobacco- — Dose 1 to 2 drachms, dissolved n hot water. As a relaxer of the muscles, tobacco is used In colic and obstinate constipa- tion, tetanus, and convulsions. Externally, it is po,i nlar as a destroyer of fleas, ticks and lice. Nos. 294, 297. Turpentine {OH of turpentine, Spirit of tu'^entine). — Dose ^ to 2 ozs. A valuable stimulant, antispasmodic, diureti". and vermifuge. But administered mixed with olive or linseed oil, or shaken up with milk, gruel, or white of eggs and water. Largely used in indigestion, colic, worms, coughs, rheumatism, low fever, etc. Exteruaily, as a lini- ment in rheumatic swellings, sprains, bruises, frost bite, vermin, ce.t It should not be used where there is high fever, or irritation of tho bowels or urinary organs. Nos. 70, 90, 91, 94, 148, 150, 207, 208, 388. Veratrum Virlde {t^^ Water hemlock) is highly esteemed by oome to reduce the pulse and fever in acute inflammations. Dose ^ oz. of the saturated tincture. Verdigris — see Copper subacetate. Vinegar. — Principally used externally as a convenient stimulant in strains, bruises and superficial inflammations. As acetic acid a dls- 504 Drugs and Medicines. tilled and concentrated vinegar is sold by druggists ; dose 1 to 2 drachms, well diluted. It is used as a cooling addition to drinks, and a^ an antidote to alkalies. Nos. 174, 218. Vitrioly Blue — see Copper sulphate. Vitrioly Green — see iron sulphate. Vitriol, White — see Zinc sulphate. Zinc Chloride {Butter of zinc). — A powerful caustic, used externally in foot rot, malignant growths, and the like. Dissolved, 5 grains to the ounce of water, it is a capital wash to destroy vermin and disinfect foul wounds. Nos. 177, 217. Zinc Oxide. — {Flowers of zinc.) An excellent drying powder for weeping surfaces, moist skin diseases and chafes. An ointment of 1 drachm to lard 1 ounce is one of the most soothing to irritated surfaces. Nos. 227, 267. Zinc Sulphate — {WMte vitriol). Principally used externally as a stimulant and astringent in weak wounds, foul ulcers, ophthalmia, chronic skin diseases, etc. The solution is usually made of 5 or 10 grains to the ounce of water. Also as a disinfectant. Nos. 2, 26, 185, 218 270. CLASSIFIED LIST OF DRUGS, ACCORDING TO THEIR ACTION" ON THE SYSTEM, AVITH EXPLANATIONS AND FORMULAS. When we wish to bring about a particular effect on the system we select as medicines those agents which experience has shown to produce the desired action ; and with this end in view, drugs have been arranged in classes, with reference to their specific or peculiar action. The practical utility of such an arrangement will be obvious; and for that reason we give below a scheme of the kind, omitting various minor divisions of no great importance. ALTEEATIVES. These are medicines whicli alter or correct some faulty condition of the blood or secretions. They are used when animals are " out of con- dition," and in scrofula, rheumatism, distemper, anaemia, and chrome diseases generally. The principal alteratives are : — ■ Mercury and its preparations. Iodine and its preparations. Arsenic. Sulphur. The Salines (Nitre, Epsom, Glauber and Common Salt). Alkalies (Potash, Soda, Lime). Vegetable alteratives (Podophyllin, Poke). Mercury., in the form of calomel, was formerly much more largely employed than it is now. Nevertheless, in the commencement of some acute diseases, and also where an active fillip to the liver is required, it is a valuable remedy. Iodine is used principally in the form of the iodide of potash. 505 506 Classijied List of Drugs. Arsenic is very higMy esteemed. Its most convenient form is Fowler" 3 solution of arsenic, one ounce of which is the average dose for a horse. The Salines and Alkalies increase the discharge from the kidneys, bowels and skin. They may often be advantageously combined with sulphur, as — • No. 491. Nitre, Sal ammoniac, of each 1 drachm. Sulphur, flowers of 1 oz. Mix with gruel, oil, milk, or molasses and water, for a draught. Other alterative receipts are Nos. 181, 182, 183, 461, 462. AK.SSTHETICS. These are given for the purpose of benumbing the senses and prevent ing pain. The two most important ones are — Chloroform, and Ether. The method of administering them will be found on page 61. ASTSn^GENTS. This class of medicines are used to check excessive discharges, especially from the bowels, and also to stay bleeding. The principal astringents are — Alum, Acetate of lead. Tannic and gallic acids and vegetables containing them, The mineral acids, Ergot. They should not be used when there is extensive inflammation and high fever ; nor is it well to give them at the outset of many complaints, as diarrhea, for instance, as the increased discharge is often an effort of nature to relieve the system of irritating substances. Formulas for astringents will be found on pages 138, 139, 144, 145, 337, 370. CArSTICS. These are required to destroy "proud flesh;" to kill the virus in poisoned wounds ; to stimulate old ulcers and destroy sloughs ; to excite healthy action in fistulas ; to remove warts and tumors ; and the like. The most important are— Classified List of Drugs. 507 Nitrate of silver (lunar caustic), Nitrate of mercury, Nitric acid, Chloride of zinc, Butter of antimony, The hot iron. The nitrate of silver and chloride of zinc can be bought in pencils, which can be placed in holders and used verj' conveniently. The first mentioned is the most popular of all the caustics. Nitric acid is very valuable for limited but powerful impression. It is readily applied by dipping the end of a match or a larger piece of wood in the fuming acid, and apjslying it to the part. The pain is intense, but of short duration. Butter of antimony is rejected by some surgeons but is very highly esteemed by others (see page 359). The hot iron is an efficient and powerful caustic, too little used now- adays owing to a weak sentimentality. Caustic solutions and formulas are given, Nos. 215, 216, 217, 220, 221, etc. COUNTER-IKRITANTS. This class includes rubefacients^ which redden the skin ; vesicants, which raise blisters ; and suppurants, which i^roduce sores on the surface. The principal ones are — Alcohol, Rubefacients. Turpentine, Ammonia, Mustard, Cantharides, "1 Boiling water, I Vesicants Iron at 212° Croton oil, 1 Tartar emetic ointment, [ All these agents, by setting up an inflammation on the surface at no great distance from an internal one, withdraw from it some of the blood and serum which surrounds it, and thus diminish its intensity. They are of frequent service in almost all attacks of congestion and inflammation of the internal organs, of the bones, joints and deep tissues. Even in influenza, fevers, and other general disorders of a depressing character, an active rubefacient, such as a mustard paste, well rubbed into the legs 508 Classijicd List of Drugs. • and washed off in five or ten minutes, is of mucli benefit in reducing the temperature and stimulating the powers. Counter-irritants should not be placed too near the affected parts ; nor should vesicants be used when inflammation is high. Suppurants are valuable for old chronic complaints. For directions for blistering see page 68 ; and for various formulas for counter-irritants see under Cantharides, p. 440. DEMULCENTS. These are gummy, or glutinous solutions, intended to soothe and coat inflamed surfaces. They are of great value in inflammations of the membranes of the throat, stomach and bowels, in kidney diseases, and other irritable conditions. The principal demulcents are — Linseed tea. Slippery elm bark tea. Gum arable water. Starch water. Sweet oil. All of these are serviceable, and the two first mentioned are par- ticularly so, as they are both excellent and cheap. Examples of theii use will be found in formulas, Nos. 6, 6, 169, etc. DISINFECTANTS AND DEODOBIZEBS. These have been fully considered on previous pages, 28, 29, 421. DITIEETICS AND DIAPHOEETICS. Diuretics increase the action of the kidneys, and consequently the amount of urine ; diaphoretics act on the skin, and augment the amount of perspiration. They are allied in character and use, being employed to relieve the pressure on other organs of secretion, and diminish fever- ishness. Horses sweat more readily than cattle, and are more easily acted upon by sweating medicines. The principal drugs of this class are — Nitrate of potash (nitre), Bitartrate of potash (cream of tartar). Turpentine, Sweet spirits of nitre, ' iJiuretics. Digitalis, Cantharides, Classified List of Drugs. 509 Solution of acetate of ammonia Ipecacuanha (small doses), Dover's powder, Tartar emetic. > Diaphoretics. Warm water is an efficient agent for both purposes. When any of the above are given, and the animal covered with cloths and kept in a temperature of 70°, the action will be mainly on the skin ; but when uncovered and exposed to a lower temperature, the action will be on the kidneys. A cheap and effectual diuretic ball for a horse is — No. 492. Nitre, Resin, Soft soap, of each \ oz. Three-fourths of an ounce of each of these, dissolved in a quart of water, is a diuretic drench for a cow. For other examples of medicines of this class, see Nos. 1G3 1G4, 166. EMETICS AND EXPECTOEAITTS. Emetics are given to produce vomiting ; expectorants to loosen mucus in the breathing tubes, and facilitate its expulsion. The horse, cattle and sheep cannot vomit, therefore emetics have no place in their treatment ; and expectorants have very little effect on them. The best formulas will be found in Nos. 60, 51, 57, 68, 321. NAECOTICS, ANODYNES AND SEDATIVES. These are employed to allay pain, soothe irritability, and quiet exces- sive nervous action. The most valuable narcotics in veterinary pharmacy are- Opium (including laudanum and morphia). Belladonna. Each of these has Innumerable applications, and they must be regarded as about the most valuable drugs to the veterinarians. Their many uses will be seen by consulting the formulas referred to In the premium list. In the class of sedatives whose action is to lower nervous force, the principal are — Aconite, Veratrum viride. These are very largely used by many practitioners to reduce the pulse and abate the febrile symptoms, at the outset of acute inflammations. They have been referred to in formulas given in the foregoing list. 510 Classified List of Drugs. PTJBGATrVE3 OR CATHABTICS. These are designed to bring about evacuation of the bowels. They are an exceedingly valuable class of remedies. The principal ones are — Aloes, Salts (Epsom, Glauber and common salt), Oils (linseed, castor, Croton). Aloes are especially useful in horses ; the salts and the oils, in cattle and sheep. The rules for their administration and formulas for their proper combination will be found in the alphabetical list. STIMTJLANTS. These are intended to give prompt assistance in an exhausted condi- tion. The strength they confer is not lasting, therefore too much re- liance should not be placed upon them. But in many emergencies they are invaluable, and save life when nothing else will. The main ones arc — Alcohol. (Whisky, brandy, gin, wine, ale, etc.) Ether, Carbonate of ammonia. Turpentine. Ginger. V/here there is active inflammation or high fever, stimulants should be withheld ; but in wearing chronic disease and in crises of profound nervous exhaustion, they can be administered with advantage. TONICS. These are intended to sharpen the appetite, and increase the nervous vigor, and thus improve the health general!}'. They should not be given to already healthy animals, as they are not beneficial ; nor should they be continued for too long a period, as they lose their effect. Small doses should be given at regular intervals, for one or two weeks, and then should be suspended for a few days, or another tonic substituted. They are either of animal, vegetable or mineral origin, as Sulphate of iron. (Copperas.) Sulphate of copper. (Blue vitriol.) Arsenic. Vegetable bitters. (Peruvian bark, gentian, quassia, etc.) Alcohol. Cod-liver oil. As the mineral tonics are generally more active than those from the vegetable conditions, they are generally prescribed for horses and cattle ; or the two forms are combined. •This is the best book of the kind we have yet seen, from either the English or American press." — Live Stock Journal and FaHcier''s Gazette, London. Of Eminent Veterinary Surgeons, Distinguished Physicians, the Medical Press, Leading Agricultural Journals, and others, to the merit of THE DISEASES OF LIVE STOCK. BY W. B. E. MILLER, D.V.S., One of the Veterinarians of the Bureau of Animal Industry, Department Agriculture, Washington, D. C; Chief Veterinary Surgeon of the New Jersey Stale Board of Health; President of the United States Veterinary Association, AND LLOYD V. TELLOR, M.D. FVom FlMLAT DcM, Lecturer on Materia Medica at the Edinburgh Veterinary College, Scotland, author of " Veterinary Medicine," etc. " I have had much pleasure in examining Drs. Miller and Teller's volume, and believe that it will prove of much value to agriculturists and amateurs, as well as to veterinarians. In terse and readable language, it treats of a large number of veterinary subjects, and contains a great amount of useful practical information un the diseases of live stock." From Jog. hvsHUJLV, Veterinary Surge(m, U. S. A. •' The treatment of the diseases of live stock recommended in Drs. Miller and Teller's book is humane, simple and scientific. I think it will prove a valuable book to every stock owner." From C!0L. Jajies Mooee, Quartermaster, V. S. A., WashingtA>n, D. C. "I have carefully perused the book entitled 'The Diseases of Live Stock, and their Most Efficient Remedies, including Horses, Cattle, Sheep and Swine,' by Drs. Miller and Tellor, and have no hesitancy in pronouncing it the very best work on the subject that has come under my observation. "The book is free from the technicalities usually found in similar works, and can be profitably studied by those who are not acquainted with the anatomy and physiology of the four species of animals therein treated. "The forms of medicines, and methods of their administration; the signs and symptoms of diseases and manner of treatment, are scientifically exact and simple ; the diagnosis perfect, and the medical cure recommended the result of practical experience in a rural locality, and studied research among the best and latest veterinary experts of England and our own country. "To the owner of a horse this book cannot be too highly commended. Especial attention is paid to the treatment of the diseases incident to this animal, and the removal of what- ever wonld impair his powers. The article on diseases of the foot of the horse is alone Worth the price of the book. "It should be in the hands of every owner of livo stock, be he poor or rich, farmer, ranche man or city gentleman." 1 Frmn Coi.. A. F. Rockwill, Ass'l Quartermatler, V. S. A. " I have examined Dra. Miller and Teller's book. It appears to me exhaustive and thorough, and I do not doubt it will be of great service to all who are interested in stock." From General William G. LeDuc, V. S. Commitsioner of Agriculture. "In ordering Drs. Miller and Tellor's ' Diseases of Live Stock ' for our library, I desire to congratulate you on the publication of so excellent and desirable a manual for farmers, to every one of whom engaged in raising or handling live stock the work will be of great value. " From PuOF. Thos. Taylor, Microscopist to the Department of Agriculture, Washington. " I have a very high opinion of Drs. Miller and Tellor's work, and I cheerfully add my testimonial to its exceeding usefulness to every one in any way interested in stock raising or owning." From William A. Hammond, m.d., o/.Yeir Tork City, Late Sitrgeon (General, V. S. A. " I have gone through Drs. Miller and Tellor's book very carefully, and regard it as admirably adapted for the use of those who are obliged to treat their own animals. It is eminently practical and full of common sense." From Henry J. Bowditch, m.d., Chairman of the Matsachusetts State Board of Health. " I am much pleased with the book, and think it will do a great deal of good." JFVoTO Edwin M. Snow, Superintendei.l of Health, Rhode Inland; Chairman of the State Board of Health. "There are some diseases of domestic animals that I have seen much of and have in- vestigated with care. In regard to these Drs. Miller and Tellor's book is correct and judicious. As a whole, the book is well done. Its language is plain, and it will prove highly useful to tlie public. It will also correct some false and pernicious ideas in relation to some diseases among animals." From Henby Bbrgh, Esq., President of the American Society for the Prerention of Cruelty to Animals. " I am gratified by the opportunity to express my admiration of its contents, which I find 80 clearly and naturally uttered that all who can read can understand. It is a most nsefuland elegant volume." From Horace J. Smith, Tioe PresitUnt of the Permanent international Exhibition, Philadelphia. "Drs. Miller and Tellor's book is a valuable contribution to popular knowledge of a most important subject; a knowledge which is now imperatively demanded. It is especially valuable to the isolated farmer, who is unable to call in skilled attendants. I hail its publication as a forerunner of the time when veterinary science will take its just rank alongside of other sciences." I\vm the " Practical Farmer" {Phila. Pa.) " The publication of this work is most opportune, and it will prove of great value to all •tock owners." From the " Chatauqua {N. T.) Farmer." " We consider Drs. Miller and Tellor's book far superior to any we have up to this time «x&miued. Its arrangement is most admirable. It is well qualified to enable any farmer to handle skillfully all his sick animals." FVom the Lancaster " Xew Era." ' "It ia a model handbook, and one that every keeper of domestic animals should own ; it will save him many dollars during the course of a year. The most approved remedies for all the known diseases are given. We know of no other work so well adapted to popular use as this." 2 Ihnnthe "Boston Jottmal." "This is a very practical and helpful treatise." From the " Poultry Mmithly,'" Albany, Neiv Yorl. "This is an exhaustive treatise on the diseases of horses, cattle, sheep and swine. It is easy of reference, and will be highly valued by every stock breeder." From the " Lhitchesg Co. Farmer" N. Y. " The farmer and stock man will find this a book to which he will refer almost daily. No possible case of disease in stock seems unprovided for. The explanations are full and the directions clear." From the "Detroit Pott and Tribune." "This work has many special features to recommend it. The language is free from technicalities, and the descriptions are clear and accurate. We do not hesitate to re- commend it as covering a wider field than any similar book published, and it ia better adapted to popular use." From the '"Medical and Si'BGh;ai, Reporter," Philadelphia. "The authors' results are presented in direct and clear terms, addressed to the ordinary reader, but exact and truly exponent of the latest scientific research." From Dr. Henry Gibbons, Editor of the "Pacific Metlical and Surgical J(.mrnal," San Francisco. " Most of the books that have been written on the diseases of domestic animals have been filled with common notions on the subject, and entirely devoid of scientific pathology and therapeutics. But this is the work of educated and systematic writers. We esteem it a valuable work, and just what is needed. Having scanned it over, we should not like to be without it." From Dr. J. G.Westmoreland, Riitor of the "Atlanta (Ga.) Medical and Surgical Journal. " A first-class handbook of veterinary practice, with every disease that animals are sub- ject to arranged in systematic order, and treated of in a plain, comprehensive manner. All who deal in live stock should have the work. It is adapted particularly to the use of farmers, etc., and all technicalities are avoided." From the "New York Medical Journal." "This work is written in plain language, for the use of the farmer and stock owner, and the authors have endeavored to render it a safe guide for practice, according to the rules of the best veterinary surgeons. The directions seem very full and explicit, and the methods of treatment are abundantly illustrated wherever illustrations are necessary." From the "St. Louin Courier of Medicine." "This book is well written, well printed and bound, and we heartily commend it to all who value the comfort and well being of their animals, especially those who are beyond the reach of a good veterinary surgeon. The different diseases are concisely and accurately ■described, the symptoms being so clearly defined that they may be readily recognized by the non-professional. The chapter on diseases of the foot and on lameness is especially instructive." From the "Chicago Interocean." " This book should find its way to every farmer and stock raiser. It is thoroughly scien- tific, yet universally free from technicalities. Valuable animals have often been saerificed, from ignorance of the fj^cts and laws here laid down." From the "National Agriculturist and Working Farmer." "This is a most excellent work, full of valuable material." From the "Live Stock Journal and Fanciers^ Gazette,^'' London, England. "We have carefully examined the book before us, and can give it hearty commendation. It is the best book of the kind we have yet seen, from either the English or American press." From the "North Briti<>h AijricitUurisl," Edinburgh, Scotland. " Drs. Jlillerand Tellor's popular treatise is a valuable work. They have collated a great deal of information, which they pi'esent in a clear and readable form. Agriculturists ott both sides of the Atlantic will consult it with much advantage."' From the " Virginia Medical Monthly." "This work must become, when once known, the popular treatise on veterinary science: in this country. It should be generally found throughout the laud." From the " Chicago Inlerocean," "This is a valuable book, and should find its way into the hands of every farmer and stock raiser. While it is thoroughly scientific in its investigation and itS' facts, yet it ie: unusually free from all technicalities." From the " North Carolina Medical Journal." "We advise our friends in the country to put this volume side by side, on their book- shelves, with Youatt, and soon the latter would be but a shelf-keeper alongside their new acquaintance." From the "Louisville Medical Newf." " This work should be in the hands of every physician and farmer. It is full of practical,, useful information." From the " American Medical Bi-weekly " LouimUU. "This is an excellent work, written in plain language, and will prove most useful to every farmer and stock owner. It is profusely illustrated with devices and appliances for the treatment of a nnily patients. To all interested in the subject we warmly recommend this book." From the "Southern JVoc/iWoner," NathvOle. "It is the most intelligently written work on this subject which we have examined." From Prof. TjEwis A. Saybe, m.d., of New York City. "Having read Drs. Miller and Tellor's work very carefully, I conlSider it of the greatest possible utility to the farmer. It should be in the hands of and carefully studied by every breeder of live stock. It is a condensed epitome of all the more scientific works on the subject, freed from their technicalities, and thus made more useful to the non-professional reader." From J. F. Elsom, a.m., Agricultural Editor of "Turf, Field and Farm. "After a careful perusal of Drs. Miller and Tellor's work, I have no hesitation in saying that it is one of the best books of the kind, and should be found in the library of every one owning or having to do with live stock." From the " Neic York Medical Record." "This work contains an immense amount of valuable information. The therapeutical portions are clear, precise and simple. It will furnish an excellent resource in cases of emergency." From the " Canadian Journal of Medical Science." "Drs. Miller and Tellor's worK on the 'Diseases of Live Stock' constitutes a notable example of a work which can be safely recommended to the enterprising stock owner, not only in sections unsuppUed with good veterinary surgeons, but Bven in localities whera they reside." INDEX. J(S* Drags and medicines are not Included In this Index, but should be lootwl for in the Alpliabetical list on page 488 ; and Poisons in the list on page 480. -A.. Abortion, in cows, .... Absorbent vessels, inflammation of the Adenitis, specific, of horses, Afterbirth, when retained in cows, Ague cake, in cattle, . . in swine, . Albugo or eye spot, . Amputation of the foot, . Anaemia of cattle,. . . Anaesthetics, how to administer, Anatomy of the horse, Aneurism, in horses, . Anthrax j in cattle, 276 ; in swine, fever. Apoplexy, in horses, parturient, in cows, . splenic, in sheep, 344 ; in Arteries, enlargement of, . Ascites, in the horse, . , Asthma, in horses, . Azoturia, in horses, . IB. Balling iron, form of, Balls, how to give, . Barbs and Paps, in horses, Barrenness, in cows, . Bastard strangles, in colts, Black leg, or black quarter, in cattle tongue, . water in horses, . in cattle, . Bladder, inflamed, in horses, .... stone in the, in horses, 161 ; in sheep, worm, the, in sheep, . . • . 511 PAGE. . 315 . 166 . 181 . 823 . 283 . 407 . 251 . 309 . 289 41, 61 84, 85 . 155 . 390 . 278 . 90 . 329 . 403 . 155 . 186 . 119 . 165 40 39 125 312 182 276 277 165 300 160 361 871 512 Index. Blain, in cattle, . • Blast, the, in sheep, . * Bleeding, rules for, . . Blood spavin, in horses, . Bloody flux, in horses, 143 ; in cattle murrain the, . . urine, in cattle, . Blistering, directions for, . Blown the, in cattle, 291 ; in sheep, Blue disease the, in swine, nose, in swine, . Bog spavin, in horses, . Bone spavin, . . . rotten,. . . Bones, inflammation of, . Bots the, in horses, 160 ; in sheep. Bowels, inflammation of, in horses, obstruction of, in cattle. Brain, inflammation of, in the horsQ, hydatid of the, in sheep, Braxy, in sheep. Breaking down, in horses, Broken knees, in horses, . wind, in horses, Brushing, in horses, . . Burns and scalds, . Burst, or hernia, Bustian foul, in cattle, o Caked bag, in cows, . . Calking, in horses, . . Calving, management of, . Canker of the feet, in horses. Capillary bronchitis, in cattle. Capped hock, . Caries of bone, . Cataract, how to examine for, Catarrh, in horses, . in cattle, . . in sheep, in swine, . . Catarrhal fever, in horses, Cattle plague, the, . , powders, ingredients of, Cautery, the, method of using, Cerebro-spinal meningitis, in horses, Charbon, in the horse, . in cattle, . . in sheep, . . in swine, • . PAGE. 7, 278 353 62 218 302 279 300 69 353 393 404 21<« 219 239 215 374 140 297 87 371 343 •235 233 119 233 242 244 306 . 333 . 233 318, 330 . 202 . 265 . 222 . 239 . 250 102, 105 . 285 . 351 . 400 . 109 . 268 . 476 . 66 . 85 . 176 . 276 . 343 . 390 Index. 513 Charges, how prepared, Chickens, diseases of, cholera of, lice on. Choking, how to treat. Cholera, hog, so-called, of fowls. Clipping, as conducive to health Cold in the head, in horses, in cattle, chest, in horses, Colic, in horses, in calves, in sheep, in dogs, Colt distemper, . Coudimental food, . Condition powders, . Conjunctivitis, . Constipation, in horses, . in dogs, Consumption, in cattle, . in dogs, Convulsive diseases, in horses, Cords, the, in cattle. Corns, in horses, Costiveness, in horses, in lambs, in dogs, Cough, chronic, in horses, in cows and cattle. Coughs and colds, in swine Cowpox, the, . Cows, diseases of, best breeds, . how to choose, management of. Cracked heel, in horses. Cradles, for horses, . Cramp colic, in dogs, Cribbing, or crib biting, Croup, the, in calves. Cud. loss of. Curb, in horses, ID Diabetes, in horses, • Diarrhoea, in horses and cattle in calves, in lambs, in swine, . in dogs, . in fowls, . PAGE . 56 . 426 428, 464 . 432 . 245 . 389 . . 428 . 32 . 102" . 285 . 105 131, 134 . 388 . 353 . 416 . 181 . 476 . 470 . 249 . 136 . 417 . 287 . 416 . 90 . 297 . 201 . 136 . 368 . 417 105, 107 . 286 . 404 . 284 . 313 . 435 . 446 450, 457 211, 241 . 35 417 130 338 77 236 . 164 . 137 . 336 . 368 . 406 . 418 . 427 514 Index. Diets, for sick animals, for fattening stock. Disease, signs of, . Disinfectant mixture. Disinfection, rules and receipts for, Distemper, the, in colts, . in sheep, . in dogs, . Dogs, diseases of, • Drenches, rules for giving to horses, to cattle, Dropping the calf, . Dropsy, in the horse, wind, in the sheep. Dysentery, in horses, in cattle, . . in dogs, . . Dyspepsia, in horses, E. Ear, canker of, in dogs, . Eczema, of the heels, in horses, contagious, in cattle, . Elbow lameness or elbow sprain, Enteric fever, of cattle, Enteritis, in the horse, Epilepsy, in horses. Epizootic, the, in horses, . Epizootic aphthae, in cattle, Epizootic catarrh, in sheep, in swine, Erysipelas, in horses, Erythema of the heels, in horses, Ewes, milk fever in, garget in, . . . Eye spot, Eyes, inflammation of the, how to examine, inflamed, in dogs, . PAGE . 36 . 477 . 77 429 28, 429, 473 . 181 . 851 . 420 . 415 . 47 . 49 . 315 . 186 . 353 . 143 . 302 . 418 . 128 423 212 274 234 263 140 90 109 274 351 400 185 211 363 364 251 248 250 424 Falling sickness, in horses. False quarter, in horses, . Farcy, in the horse, . Fardelbound, in cattle. Feathers, loss of, in fowls. Felon, in cattle, Fibro-chondritis of the hoof, in horses, Firing, rules for performing, Fistula of the coronet, in horses, . 90 206 174 293 432 306 207 64 207 Index, 515 .^GE Fistulous withers, 238 I'lts, in horses, . 90 Fleas, on dogs, . . . . 425 on fowls, . . . . 432 Flatulent colic, in horses. . 134 Flooding of cows, in labor, . 322 Fluke, the, in sheep. . 379 Fomentations, how prepared, . . 55 Foot, structure of, in the horse. . 189 foul in the, in cattle. . 308 sprain of the ligaments of, . 236 wounds of the. . 204, 232 and mouth disease, in cattle, . 274 rot, in sheep. . . 355 Foul claw, or foul foot, in cattle. . 308 in sheep. . 360 Founder, in horses, . . 198 Fowls, diseases of, . . 426 cholera of, . . 428 Frog, diseases of the, in horses. . 200 Frostbite, . . . . , . 241 Frush, in horses. . 201 Or. Gadfly, attacks of the, 150,374 Gapes, in fowls. . 430 Garget, in cows, . 333 in ewes, . 364 Gastritis, of ruminants. . 293 Gathered nails, in horses. . 204 Gid, the, in sheep, . . 371 Giddiness, in horses, . 91 Glanders, in the horse. . 170 Gloss-anthrax, in cattle, . . 278 Gnaw disease, the, in sheep, . . 349 Grapes, the, in horses. . 213 Gravel, in horses, . 161 Grease, the, in horses, . 212 Gripes, the, in horses. . 131 Grogginess, in horses. 209, 190 Grubs, on horses, ». . 257 in the head, in sheep, . 374 Guenon's method, . . 448 Guernsey cows. . 443 Gums, bleeding, in horses. . 125 Gut tie, the, in cattle, . 297 HI. Haematuria, in horses, 165 in sheep, . . . . 354 516 Index. Head maggots, in sheep, . Heart, enlargement of, in horses, fatty degeneration of, beat, violent, in horses, Heaves, in horses, Hepatitis, in horses, Hernia, in horses, . Herpes or ringworm. Hide bound. High blowing, in horses, . Hog cholera, so-called. Hogs (see Swine j, Hollow horn, in cattle, Hoof, diseases of, in the horse, rot, in sheep, . Hoose, the, in calves, in lambs, Horn ail, the, . Horse, anatomy of, . diseases of, . structure of foot of, points for buying, . sanitary management of, hygiene of, . Hoven, in cattle. Husk, the, in calves. Hydatids of the brain, in sheep, of the kidney, in hogs. Hydrophobia, in animals. Hygiene, of the horse, offattening, Hypodermic syringe, the, Hysteria, of mares, . I. Impaction of the rumen, in cattle, . Indigestion, in horses. Inflammation of the brain, in horses, of the lungs, in horses, ii) swine, • of the mouth, in horses, of the bowels, in the horse, of the liver, in the horse, in cattle, . of the kidneys, in horses, of the bladder, in horses, of the muscles, in horses, of the bones, in horses, of the eyes, . of the womb, in cows, of the udder, in cows. PAGE . 374 . 153 . 154 . 152 . 118 . 146 . 244 . 252 . 75 . 120 . 389 . 289 204-220 . 355 . 339 . 375 . 289 . 84 . 87 . 189 . 455 . 457 . 467 . 291 . 339 . 371 . 410 98, 416 . 468 . 475 . 44 . 166 291 . 128 . 87 . 113 . 404 . 124 . 140 . 146 . 298 . 159 . 160 . 199 . 315 . 248 . 329 . 843 Index. 517 Inflammation of eyes, in dogs, Inflammatory fever, of cattle, . colic, in dogs. Influenza, the, in horses, . Injections, rectal, rules for giving, into the nose, . into the veins. Intestinal fever, of swine, Interfering, .... Issues, how to make, Itch, the, in sheep, . in hogs, J". Jaundice, in the horse, . in cattle, . . • • Jersey cows, . ' ■ ' c ' Jugular vein, inflammation of, Kidneys, inflammation of, in horses. Kidney worms, in hogs, • Knees, broken, . . . • PAGE 424 278 417 109 43 53 45 330 232 71 383 412 146 299 441 156 159 410 233 Lakeburn, in cattle, . . Lambing, in the ewe. Lambs, rheumatism in, constipation in, diarrhoea in, Lameness, signs of, in the horse elbow, Laminitis, in the horse, Lampas, in horses, . Lard worms, in hogs. Laryngitis,, in horses, Leg weakness, in fowls, Leprosy, the,, of hogs. Lice, on horses, on cattle, on hogs, . on dogs, . on fowls, • - . Liver, congestion and inflammation ot, m flukes in the, in sheep, . Live stock, sanitary management of, Lockjaw, in horses, . . • • the horse, cattle, . 293 . 362 . 365 . 368 . 368 192, 196 , 234 . 197 . 124 . 410 . 112 . 432 . 408 . 260 . 310 . 413 . 425 . 432 146 298 379 457 96 618 Index. PAGE Louping ill, in sheep, 349 Lumbago, in cattle, . . 307 Lung fever, in horses, . 113 in cattle. . 270 in swine, . 404 worms, in lambs, . 375 Lymphangitis, in horses, . . 156 im:. Malignant pustule, 276 sore throat. . 277, 395 Mallenders and sallenders, the, . 256 Mammitis, in cows (See Garget.) . 333 Mange, the, on horses, . 258 in sheep, . 383 in hogs. . 412 in dogs. . 422 Mawbound, in cattle, . 293 Mayhew's mixture, for dogs, . . 419 ointment, for dogs, . . 419 Measles, in hogs. . 411 Megrims, in horses, . . 91 Metritis, in cows, . 329 Milk, management of, in cows. . 327 to bring on or increase, • . 328 to correct blue and bloody, . 328 fever, in cows, . 329 in ewes, .... . 363 in cattle, .... . 304 Milking, the art of, . . Milt swelling, in swine, . 407 Moon blindness, .... . 249 Mud fever, in horses, . . . 211 Murrain, in cattle, .... . 276 Myositis, symptoms of, in horses, . 199 3^. Nasal gleet, in horses, ...... 103 Navicular disease, in horses, . . , . 209 Necrosis and caries of bone. , , . 239 Nettle rash, in the horse. , . 254 Nose, running from, in horses. . . . 103 the blue, in swine, 404 O- Ophthalmia, periodic, 249 Ostitis, in horses, • . 216 Overreach, . 232 Index, 519 Ovination, how performed, Oxen, feeding and management, PAGE 349 461 Pale disease, the, in lambs, Palpitation, in horses, Palsy. (See Paralysis.) Paper skin, the, in lambs, Paralysis, in horses. Parturient apoplexy, fever, in cows, Parturition, in cows. Pelt rot, the, in lambs. Periodic ophthalmia. Periostitis, in horses, Pharyngitis, in horses, Phlebitis, in horses, Phrenitis, in the horse, Phthisis, in cattle. Pink eye, in horses, Pining, in cattle, Plethora, in animals. Pleurisy, in horses, . Pleuro-pneumonia, the, in cattle, Pneumonia, in horses, in cattle, Pneumo enteritis, contagious, in swine, Poisons and antidotes. Poll evil, the, . Positions of the calf, Poultices, how made. Pregnancy, length of, in animals, Probang, directions for using. Puerperal fever, in cows, Pulse, the, in animals Pumiced foot, . Purples, the, in swine. Purpura hemorrhagica, in the horse, Quarter ill, in cattle, Quidding, in horses. Quinsy, in swine, Quittor, in horses, . d. -^J. Red soldier, the, in swine, water, in cattle, • in sheep, . _ . Reproductive acts, the, in animals, 375 152 375 95 329 329 318 375 249 215 112 156 87 287 109 287 471 116 270 113 265 393 479 237 320 46 26 246 329 72 198 393 175 276 126 404 208 393 300 354 26 520 Index. Retained afterbirth, in cows, Rheumatism, in the horse, in cattle, in lambs, Rinderpest, the, Ring bones, in horses, worm, in horses. Rising of the lights, in swine, Roaring, in horses, . Rot, the, in sheep, . Rowels, how to insert, Rupture, in horses, . St. Anthony's fire, . in sheep, St. Vitus' dance, Sallenders, the, in horses, Sandcrack of the hoof, Scab, the, in sheep, . in hogs, . Scouring, in horses, . in calves, . in lambs, . rot, the, in cattle, Scratches, the, in the horse, Scrofula, in the lower animals, Seedy toe, in horses, Setons, how to insert, Sheath, diseases of, in horses, Sheep distemper, pox, Shoote, the, in calves, Short horn cows. Shot of grease, in horses. Shoulder lameness, meaning of, slip, in the horse, Sick animals, attention to. Sick dogs, how to treat, . Sidebones, in the horse, • Sitfasts, on horses, . Sleepy staggers, in horses. Slings for horses, how made, Slinking, in cows. Smallpox, in cows, . in sheep, . Snores or snivels, in cattle, Sore shins, in horses, throat in horses, malignant or putrid , in cattle, in swine, PAGE 323 178 306 365 268 217 252 405 120 379 71 244 185 348 90 256 205 383 412 137 336 368 302 211 265 199 63 167 351 347 338 437 156 230 231 31 416 222 257 129 34 315 284 347 285 215 112 277 395 Index. 621 Spanish fever, the, . . . Spavin, bog, .... blood, .... bone, .... Special diet preparations. Speedy cut, a, . Splenic apoplexy, in sheep, fever, the, of cattle, of hogs. Splints, in horses, . . . Spotted fever, in the horse. Sprains or strains, of the back sinew, of the suspensory ligament. Stabling of sick animals . Staggers, blind or mad, in horses, sleepy, in horses, stomach, in cattle, in swine, Staleing, painful, in horses, profuse, Stall-feeding cattle, . Staring coat. Stings and bites, Stomach staggers, Stone in the bladder, in horses, in sheep. Stopping, for the feet, Strains, of the shoulder and leg of the horse. Strangles, in the horse, in swine, . Strangurv. in horses, Striking of the blood, in sheep, Stringhalt, in horses, Sturdy, the, in sheep. Sunstroke, in horses, Superpurgation, treatment of, . Suppositories, how made and given, Surfeit, in horses, . • . Surgical instruments, veterinary, Suspensory ligament, strain of. Sutures, how to insert. Sweeny, in the horse. Swine, diseases of, . rules for feeding, . Swiss cattle Swollen belly, in horses, . Syphilis, in horses, . T. Tapeworm, in sheep and dogs, in hogs, . . . PAGE 281, 400 218 218 219 36 233 344 283 390, 407 216 175 228 232 235 27 87 129 293 403 162 164 454 75 243 129, 293 161 361 32 230 181 405 162 343 90 371 93 138 43 254 59 234 66 228, 231, 232 388 462 445 134 167 371 412 522 Index, PAGE Teeth, operations on the, 67 decayed, in horses, . m Temperature, the, of animals, . . 75 Tetanus, in horses, . . 96 Tetter, moist, in horses, . . 254 Texas cattle disease. . 281, 400 Thick leg, in horses. . 158 wind, in horses. . 120 Thoroughpin, in the horse, . 221 Thorter ill, in sheep, . 349 Thrush of the frog, in horses, . . 202 Thumps, the, in horses, . ^ , Ticks, on cattle. . 310 Tinea, or ringworm, . 252 Tooth cough, in horses, . . 127 Tracheotomy, how to perform, . 183 Tread, a, in horses, . . 233 Trembles, the, in cattle, . . 304 Trevis, how to construct, . . 61 Trichina or trichinosis, in swine. . 409 Trocar described, . 53 Tuberculous disease, in cattle, . . 287 Turnsick, in sheep, . . 371 Tympany or tympanites, in horses, . 134 u. Udder, inflammation of the, in cows, ... 333 in ewes. . 384 Urine, retention or suppression of, in horses . . 162 bloody, in cattle, .... . 300 in sheep, . 354 •v^. Vagina, diseases of, in mares, 170 Variola, of cows, .... . 284 of sheep, . 247 Ventilation, of stables. . 28 Vertigo, in horses, .... . 91 Veterinary pocket case, . 59 Vives, in horses, .... . 125 w. Warbles, in horses, 257 Weed, the, in horses, . 156 Weights and measures, ^ . 57 Whistling, in horses. . 120 White bristle, in hogs. . 890 scour, in lambs. . 370 skin, the, in lambs, . . 375 Index. 523 Wind dropsy, in sheep, galls; .... sucking, .... colic, in dogs. Wolf teeth, as a cause of blindness, Womb, inversion of, in cows, . inflammation of, in cows, Worms, intestinal, in horses, in sheep, kidney and lard, in hogs, Wounds, general treatment of, . of the feet, of the knees, Wound fever, .... PAGE 353 235 130 417 251 323 329 148 382 410 224 204 283 226 Yard, diseases of the. Yellows, the, in horses, in cattle, 168 146 298 W ?;■•*. :.l.'- •.'■:, ^-ia