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TUFTS UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES

3 9090 014 531 582

Webster Family Library of Veterinar\/ Medii
Cumminos School of Veterinary Medicine
Tulxs University
200 Westboro Road

iWorth Hroff-nn I\/1A Hi COO

VETERIKARY

MEDICINE AND SURGERY

DISEASES AND INJURIES

OF THE

HORSE

COMPILED FROM STANDARD AND MODERN AUTHORITIES AND EDITED BY

F. O. KIRBY.

Illustrated by Four Colored Plates and One Hundred and Sixty-eight Wood

Engravings

NEW YORK

WILLIAM WOOD & COMPANY

1883

1^5

CoPTIilGHT

WILLIAM WOOD & COMPANY

inaa

T BOW'S
PRINTING ANO BOOKBINDING COMPANY,

PREFACE.

This work has been prepared with a desire to jiresent in a concise
form a practical manual of the diseases and injuries of the horse, and
their treatment, for the use of practitioners of medicine and other in-
telligent horse owners. The professional veterinarian already has at
his command several large and excellent treatises. These, however, de-
vote considerable space to the consideration of subjects familiar to the
student of medicine, and unnecessary to the non-professional reader.
Physiology and pathology are, therefore, seldom referred to in the pres-
ent work.

OriginaHty is not claimed for this hand-book, although many prac-
tical ideas, the result of sixteen years' experience in the ownership and
consequent care of horses have been incorporated in its pages. It would
have been a more agreeable task to rewrite it entirely, but the time re-
quisite for such an undertaking was not available, and it has been neces-
sary to make free use of the work of others.

The recent treatise of General Fitzwygram on Horses and Stables
has been taken as a basis, and quoted from verbatim to a large extent.
Similar copious extracts have been made from the works of Prof. Wil-
liams on Yeterinary Medicine and Surgery, and from the still later trea-
tise on Equine Medicine by Prof. Wm. Robinson.

The editor desires to acknowledge his indebtedness also to the
works of Percivall, Gamgee, Hayes, Youatt, Mayhew, Dun, Walsh,
Blain, Tuson, Armitage and others, to the Yeterinary Journal^ to
D'Arboval's Dictionnaire de Medecine Yeterinaire, etc., all of which
have been freely drawn from, especially for methods of treatment.

The compiler is conscious that there are many imperfections in his
work, but believes, nevertheless, that it will b3 found better fitted for
the purpose for which it has been prepared than any heretofore pub-
lished.

New York, November 1st, 1883.

EXPLANATION OF PLATE I.

SKELETON OF THE HORSE.

CJ^^ This figure is arawn from the skeleton of the famous race horse
Eclipse, and is considered by Professors Gamgee and Law, from whose
work on veterinary anatomy it is copied, as anatomically perfect.

1. Zygomatic arch.

24.

2. Orbital cavity.

25.

3. Eace bones.

26.

4. Incisor teeth.

27.

5, Molar teeth.

6. Lower jaw.

28.

7. Atlas, 1st vertebra of neck.

29.

8. Axis, 2d vertebra of neck.

30.

9. Cervical vertebrae (5).

10. Spinal processes of back.

32.

11. Dorsal and lumbar vertebrse.

33.

12. Sacrum.

34.

13. Coccygeal or tail bones.

14. Scapula, or shoulder blade.

35.

15. Acromion process.

36.

16. Hollow of shoulder blade.

37.

17. Superior tuberosity of the hu-

38.

merus.

39.

18. Humerus, or arm bone.

40.

19. Olecranon, or elbow bone.

41.

20. Cartilages of the ribs.

42.

21. Eibs.

43.

22. Haunch, the external and ante-

44.

rior angle of the ilium.

45.

23. Os innominatum, or Haunch

bone.

Great trochanter.
Small trochanter.
Femur, or thigh bone.
Ischium, posterior angle of the

ilium.
Eadius, or fore-arm bone.
Carpal or knee bones.
Trapezium.

Metacarpal, or Cannon bone.
Os suffraginis, or pastern bone.
Sesamoid bone.
Os coronas, or small pastern

bone.
Superior tuberosity of the tibia.
Stifle joint.
Tibia, or leg bone.
Os calcis, or point of hock.
Tarsus, or Hock joint.
Head of small metatarsal bone.
Cannon, or metatarsal bone.
Hoof, or foot bone.
Fetlock joint.
Patella.
Fibula.

TABLE OF CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.

EERATA,

Page 7G._Magenclie\s Solution of Morphine 3 x 1. should be TT. x 1
Page 77.-Tincture of Chloride of Iron 3 j. should be 3j

of the Pleura, Asthma, Broken Wind, Heaves, Thick Wind, Roaring,
Highblowing, Whistling, Grunting.

CHAPTER HI.

Diseases of the Digestive Organs 83

Lampas, Choking, Indigestion, Gorging, Grain Founder, Gastric Impac-
tion. Gorged Stomach, Impaction of the Stomach, Dyspepsia, Chronic
Indigestion, Gastritis, Inflammation of the Stomach, Rupture of the
Stomach, Constipation, Spasmodic Colic, Gripes, Belly Ache, Flatulent
Colic, Windy Colic, Tympanites, Swollen Belly, Inflammation of the In-
testines, Enteritis, Superpurgation, Diarrhoea, Bots, Worms.

CHAPTER IV.

Diseases op the Brain and Nervous System 103

VI TABLE OF CONTENTS.

PAGE

Palsy, Paraplegia, Hydrophobia, Rabies, Epizootic Cerebro-Spinal Menni-
gitis. Spotted Fever, Putrid Fever, Cold Plague, Sunstroke.

CHAPTER V.

Diseases of the Eye 123

The Membrana nictitans, Simple Ophthalmia, Conjunctivitis, Inflamma-
tion of the Conjunctiva, Specific Ophthalmia, Periodic Ophthalmia, Moon
Blindness, Cataract, Lenticular Cataract, Capsular Cataract, Interstitial
Cataract, Spurious Cataract, Amaurosis, Glass Eye, Gutta Serena, Glau-
coma, Lacerations of the Eyelids, Disease of the Lachrymal Passages,
Foreign Bodies in the Eye, Worms in the Eye.

CHAPTER VI.

Diseases of the Liver 135

Congestion of the Liver, Hepatitis, Cirrhosis, Atrophy, Hypertrophy,
Jaundice, The Yellows, Icterus.

CHAPTER VTI.

Diseases of the Urinary Organs 141

Nephritis, Inflammation of the kidneys. Cystitis, Inflammation of the
bladder. Diabetes, Profuse staleing, Strangury, Retention of urine. Bala-
nitis, Inflammation of the Penis and Sheath, Azoturia, Black water,
Nymphomania, Bloody urine. Phimosis, Paraphimosis.

CHAPTER VIII.

Diseases of the Skin 155

Cracked Heels, Scratches, Acne, Warbles, Slight Tumors, Sitfasts, Ery-
thema, Mud Fever, Urticaria, Nettle Rash, Surfeit, Scabies, Mange, Itch,
Scab, Prurigo, Pruritus, Surfeit, Ringworm, Herpes Circinatus, Tinea
tonsurans. Warts, Eczema, Eczema Simplex, Mallenders, Sallenders,
Humid Tetter, Lichen or Rat-tails, Eczema Pustulosum, Grease,
Psoriasis.

CHAPTER IX.

Diseases and Injuries of the Legs 175

Spavin, Bone Spavin, Varix, Bog Spavin, Blood Spavin, Broken Knees,
Curb, Sprung Hock, Capped Hock, Capped Elbow, Thorough-Pin, Splint,
Sore Shins, Ring Bone, Stiff Joint, Anchylosis, Open Joint, Windgalls,
Brushing, Interfering, Speedy Cut, Slioulder Slip, Sprain of the Flexor
Brachii, Sprain of the Back Sinews, Stifle Joint Lameness. Sprain of the
Fetlock Joint, Sprain of the Suspensory Ligament, Stocking, Swelled
Legs, CE lema of the Legs, Lymphangitis, Weed, Inflammatory CEdema,
Elephantiasis.

TABLE OF CONTENTS. Vli

CHAPTER X.

Diseases of the Feet 233

Prick of the Foot, Picking up Nails, Puncture of the Frog and Sole, Corns,
Quittor, Sandcracks, False Quarter, Seedy Toe, Thrush, Frush, Canker,
Navicular Disease, Laminitis, Founder, Inflammation of the Feet, Side-
bones, Villitis, Inflammation of the Coronet, Carbuncle of Coronet,
Tread, Overreach.

CHAPTER XL

General, Contagious, and Enzootic Diseases 31.3

Influenza, Pink Eye, Catarrhal Fever, Epizootic Catarrh, Horse Distem-
per, Horse Sickness, Febris Pyogenica, Colt Distemper, Colt 111, Strangles,
Glanders, Farcy, Equina, Erysipelas, Purpura Hemorrhagica, Spotted
Fever, Scarlatina, Scarlet Fever, Rheumatism, Dropsy, Ascites, CEdema,
Hydrothorax.

CHAPTER XII.

Flesh Wounds 283

Incised wounds, Lacerated wounds, Punctured wounds. Contused wounds,
"Wounds of the abdomen, Frostbite, Burns, Scalds, Poisoned wounds,
The Stings of Insects, The Poison of Snakes, Acids and Alkalies.

CHAPTER XIII.

Ulcers and Fistul.is 299

Ulcers, Poll-evil, Fistulous Withers, Saddle and Harness Galls.

CHAPTER XIV.

Age, as Indicated by the Teeth G05

Structural alterations. Back Teeth, or Molars or Grinders, Anterior teeth
or Incisors, Distinction between the Temporary and Permanent Incisors,
Temporary or Milk Incisors, Development of the Permanent Teeth, The
Mark. Parrot Moutli, Bishop-ing, The Fang-hole or Secondary Mark,
Fui-ther changes indicating the Age, Lateral breadth. Triangularity,
Length, Slope, Loss of circularity in form of the jaw, etc.. The Tusks,
ColJateral circumstances to be taken into consideration.

CHAPTER XV.

PosoLOGiCAL Table for the Horse 333

With the Action of the Medicinal Substances.

M ANITA L

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

CHAPTER I.
INTEODUCTION.

Nursing, Loose Box, Blankets, Fresh Water, Appetite, Delicate Feeders, Mashes,
Mangers, Hand-rubbing, Beds, Fomentations, Cold-water Bathing, Giving a
Ball, To give a Drench, Injections into the Nostrils, Enemas, Disinfectants,
Deodorizers, Steaming, Poultices, Powders, Electuaries, Blisters, Bleeding,
Firing, Setons, Bandages, Sutures, Slings, Twitch-ups, Holding up a fore-foot,
Side lines. Throwing or Casting.

NURSING.

Whilst there is no real difficulty in giving medicines to most horses,
and in carrying out the directions to be found in treatises on veterinary
medicine, there is nevertheless a knack in many of the practical opera-
tions which is only to be acquired by experience — so that no one should
be discouraged by his awkwardness at first, but bear in mind that gentle-
ness, firmness, and patience will enable the operator to accomplish his pur-
pose easily with all but the most high-strung and vicious animals. Horses
vary greatly in disposition; some can be manipulated in almost any man-
ner without the slightest resistance, others resist any unaccustomed
handling, and some require the experience and skill of the professed vete-
rinarian for medical or surgical treatment.

The first requisite for a sick horse is pure fresh air, avoiding always
draughts from any direction. If much sick, a loose box, as it is called, is
very essential, as it allows the animal more room to move about and as-
sume whatever position is most restful to him.

A Loose Box should not be less than ten feet square and should have
a low half door, over which the sick horse can droop his head if so in-
clined. The box should be in a quiet part of the stable, removed if pos-

10 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

sible from the other horses, and so situated as to the windows that it can
be darkened, if desired, for liorses with disorders of the nervous system
and eye troubles. The floor should be liberally covered with fresh clean
straw, or saw dust; keep the floor of the box clean, but do not wash it
while in use. A loose box used for sick animals should be frequently
and thoroughly whitewashed.

Blankets and other clothing upon sick horses should be loosely
fastened on; if a surcingle is used, let it be quite slack. Shake and air the
clothing once or twice a day, but do not let the horse stand uncovered
for any length of time, nor at all unless he is likely to be benefited by it.

A seriously sick horse should have all his shoes removed, as it will
give him comfort and ease.

Fresh Water should be constantly within reach; especially when
fever is present, the horse will frequently sip at it.

Hard water, which contains an excess of saline and mineral substances,
does not as a general rule agree as well with horses as soft water, such
as that obtained from a river or pond. It is apt to prod ace irritation of
the bowels and, as a secondary effect, a staring coat.

The salts contained in hard water may be in a great degree precipi-
tated by boiling, and most waters become softer by being exposed to the
air.

Any sudden change in the kind of water supplied to horses is apt to
cause derangement and even irritation of the mucous membranes of the
bowels, especially a change from soft to hard water. Hence if the water
is very hard, it should be boiled before being given to valuable horses,
particularly if they are not accustomed to it.

Eain or other soft water stored in tanks soon becomes full of decom-
posing vegetable matter in hot weather.

To horses predisposed to scour, water should be given frequently and in
reduced quantities, and in winter the chill should be taken off by mixing
it with a very little warm water. Perhaps the best plan is to leave water
always before such horses, because when so supplied they drink less than
when watered at intervals. A diminished quantity of water taken into
the system, by lessening the secretions of the intestines, decreases the
tendency to purgation.

If reduction of the quantity of water does not produce tlie desired
effect, it may be mixed with a little wheat flour, which has a slight as-
tringent effect on the bowels. If further measures are needed, boiled

INTRODUCTION. 1 1

linseed or some sucli demulcent should be mixed with the oats; and it is
as well to bruise the oats, because their ends are liable to cause irritation
on an over-sensitive intestinal lining. Horses disposed to scour should
be stinted of their water before going to work. Some horses will scour
unless a little hay is given to them in the morning before they are
watered.

The sense of smell, always acute in horses, is greatly increased in most
diseases. Medicines which have strong smells cannot therefore be com-
monly administered in drinking water or mashes. Most horses will refuse
them.

The Appetite of a sick horse is often very capricious, and during the
height of a fever is generally entirely lost. It is of no use to try to force
it to eat; place a variety of food before it and in small quantities at a
time, always removing whatever is left, before placing another portion
before it. This should be particularly seen to in the case of mashes or
wetted food of any kind, which is sure to become sour and offensive,
even to a well horse.

Delicate Feeders. — Both care and skill are needed in regulating
the diet and tempting the appetite of delicate feeders. Some will reject
their food altogether, if it is given them in large quantities; whilst
they will eat it, if only a small quantity is offered at a time. Others
again will not feed, unless they are allowed frequently to moisten their
mouths with water, whilst eating. Water should be kept constantly be-
fore such animals. Others again, apparently of a nervous or timid dis-
position, will not feed, unless there is a spare stall between them and the
next horse. Many horses feed very slowly, and are consequently robbed,
when possible, of half their food by their more voracious neighbors. A
little linseed boiled to a jelly and mixed with the oats will induce
others to eat more freely. Hay slightly damped and sprinkled with
salt is palatable to some horses, who will reject it when dry. A pretty
frequent change of food is acceptable to some delicate feeders. A little
wet bran with the oats is grateful for a time to some horses. Some
horses seem to tire of oats and Avill take half a day to eat four quarts;
such will often relish and consume at once the same quantity of fine
feed. For others carrots or green foliage may be substituted for hay.

Tonics no doubt increase the appetite, but should be administered
always with discretion.

Mashes are exceedingly useful in feeding sick horses, but they should

12 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY,

always be quite moderate in quantity, and carefully prepared. The pail
in which it is made is the best to feed it from, for if poured into the
manger, it will sour and contaminate everything afterwards placed in the
same receptacle.

To prepare a bran mash, place two quarts good bran into a pail, and
pour boiling water over it, mix thoroughly with a stick, and let it stand
until cool enough to use.

Bread mash is made by soaking a loaf of bread, broken up, in fresh
milk until it is thoroughly saturated, and can be reduced to a pulp; add
a little salt.

Linseed mash is made by boiling a half pound of flaxseed (not ground)
in two quarts of water until it is reduced to about three pints. Pour this
over bran instead of water and mix.

Mangers. — A horse with a free discharge from the nostrils should,
as a general rule, be fed from a temporary manger or bucket jilaced near
the ground, as the depending position of the head, whilst the animal is
feeding, will facilitate the discharge. A wheelbarrow will serve very well,
as a make-shift for this purpose. But where the patient shows signs of
lieadache, as is often the case especially in feverish attacks, this jjosition,
Avhich would determine more blood to the head, is very undesirable.
Steaming the head is very beneficial in catarrhal affections.

When a horse has a discharge of a suspicious character as to its nature,
he should be tied up suffiijiuntly to prevent his throwing it about all parts
of the walls of the box.

Hand-rubbing of the legs is very useful in relieving any little
fulness arising from over- work or in other cases from the absence of
proper exercise. The jiressure and friction thereby given excites the
blood-vessels and absorbents to increased action.

A good bed is essential to comfort. Fresh clean straw certainly
looks nicest, and has undoubtedly the advantages of cleanliness and
sweetness; but many practical men prefer a bed made of old straw litter
collected, but of course carefully cleaned and dried. It makes a softer,
firmer, and more substantial bed; while on the other liand the long hard
ends of the new straws, especially Avheat, are apt to irritate and annoy a
weakly and sensitive patient.

Fomentations, to be really useful, should be continued for at least
one or two hours at a time. The temperature of the water should not
exceed 106°, or hardly as hot as the hand can comfortably bear. The

INTKODUCTION.

temperature must be kept up to this point by the frequent addition cf
small quantities of hot water. The sponge or swab should not be allowed
to touch the parts affected, but should be applied higher up, so that the
water only may trickle down over the inflamed or injured surface. Fig, 1.
When the fomentation is discontinued, the parts should be loosely covered
with flannel in order to obviate the risk of a chill. If flannel is not
available, or the part is so situated that it cannot be conveniently ap-

FlQ. 1.

Fomenting a wounded leg.

plied, ammonia liniment, in cases where there is no abrasion of the skin,
may be lightly rubbed on.

When servants cannot be spai'ed for the tedious Avork of fomenting, a
fair substitute will be found in wrapping the part round with thick
wollen stuff covered with rubber cloth, which will long retain both heat
and moisture.

The leg below tlie knee may be conveniently fomented by putting it
in a deep bucket of warm water. In all large establishments it is well
worth while to get a bucket made half as deep again as usual for this
especial purpose, Fig. 2. The water in such cases may require to be put
in after the horse's lesr is in the bucket.

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

In most cases three or four fomentations in the course of the twenty-
four hours are sufficient.

Cold-water Bathing of the Legs is in many cases very beneficial.
The cold gives tone to and braces up the structures, which may have be-
come weak or deficient in vital energy. The value of cold as a tonic has
not been sufficiently appreciated in such cases.

A very convenient india-rubber apparatus is made for the pur-
pose of bringing a constant stream or trickling of
cold water on any part which may require such
treatment.

After each application the part should be thor-
oughly dried and wrapped in a cotton bandage.
The cold application under ordinary circumstances
may be repeated three times, but not oftener, during
the day.

Gentle Haud-rubbing of the Skin and also
sponging of the nostrils and dock with weak vinegar
and water are generally refreshing to sick animals.

The sheath should always be carefully cleaned at
the outset of any serious illness, and tliis operation
should be repeated, if the case is prolonged.
Gfiving a Ball requires for its successful performance a knack
which may be learned by carefully observing Gamgee's directions, as fol-
lows, viz.: — Istly, Turn the horse from his manger, with a halter on,
held by a groom or assistant. Attempting to give a ball to a horse tied
up in a stall has before this proved a fatal experiment to the operator.
2dly, It is extremely dangerous to resort to twitching with awkward
horses, as our power in keeping the mouth open depends on the moderate
stretch on tlie tongue, which is not felt or cared for by a horse severely
punished with a twitch on his ear. 3dly, Stand on the off side of the
horse's head, with a towel in the left hand to wipe the mouth, should
there be, as in some cases, an excessive amount of, secretion to interfere
with holding the tongue; the left hand is placed on the horse's crest,
whilst the right is introduced into the angle of the mouth, the tongue is
seized gently, wiped if necessary, grasped with the left hand as in Fig.
3, and drawn downwards. Some persons introduce the left hand so as
to compress the tongue against the left side of the lower jaw, bringing it
between the molar teeth on that side; and others drag the tongue out of

Fig. 3.

Tub for soaking the foot
and lower leg in warm
water.

INTRODUCTION.

the mouth, and hold it firmly. It is extremely important to hold
it so that, in any movement the horse may make, there is a point
of support for the hand against the lower jaw. Pulling on the

Fig. 3.
Method of holding tongue in giving a ball.

tongue may give unnecessary pain, make a horse restless, and in tossing
his head about, the organ may be severely lacerated. 4thly, The ball.

Fig. 4.
Showing correct way of holding a ball.

which has been ready all the time in the assistant's hands, or in the
waistcoat-pocket, or grasped by the lips of the operator, is seized as in

16 VETERINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Fig. 4, and, avoiding unnecessary bustle and hurry, it is carried up the
middle of the mouth and dropped on the back of the tongue; at the
same instant the tongue is quietly let loose, and as the horse draws it
back, the ball is engaged in the pharynx, whence it cannot return unless
by a fit of coughing; as soon as the hands are withdrawn, the mouth is
kept closed, and the left side of the neck watched to see the ball pass
down the oesophagus; this may occur before looking round to the neck,
so that, after waiting a little, if the ball be not seen, the horse should be
caiised to drink a little water. The practice of giving a little water to
drink after giving a ball should always be adhered to, as it is disagreeable
to leave an animal, and when the operator's back is turned, the ball be
coughed into the manger; moreover, in morbid conditions of the system,
and in the unnatural manner in which the bolus is swallowed, the pas-
sages are not well lubricated, and the ball may be some time before it
penetrates the cardiac orifice.

With vicious horses, horses with narrow mouths, and in cases of tris-
mus, when balls are to be given, instruments should be used. Balling
irons, to prevent the closure of the mouth, have been constructed of
various kinds; the simplest, represented by Fig. 5, is made of malleable

Fig. 5.
Usual form of balling iron.

iron, and is adapted to the average size of a horse's mouth. Other and
more perfect forms are represented by Fig. 6 and Fig. 7. Perhaps the
most useful is Mr. Varnell's improved balling iron, which may prove
serviceable in cases where with difficulty a horse is made to open his
mouth as wide as it is desirable, and if, instead of giving balls, the teeth
and other parts of the mouth have to be examined and operated on.
These can be had of a surgical instrument-maker in any large city.

The usual and old-time method of making a ball i? to mix up the

INTRODUCTION.

ingredients with a little honey or molasses to form a stiff dough, adding,
if necessary, sufficient linseed meal or bran to give it the proper size,

Fia. 6.
French balling iron .

Fig. r.
Varnell's balling iron.

whicli is commonly about that of a man's thumb. The gelatine capsules,
now to be had in most drug stores, are, however, much nicer in every

PLANTEN'S
HORSE (BALL) CAPSULE,

Fig. 8.
Gelatine capules for veterinary use.

way, and those having many norses ..o care for would do well to keep a

supply of them on hand, Fig. 8.

To /?ive a Drench, it is preferable to have the horn made specially
2

VETEKINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

for the purpose (Fig. 9); but in its absence a soda-water bottle will
answer fairly well. Gamgee's rules are: — Istly, Hold tlie horse's head up

Fig. 9
A drenching horn.

at a moderate height, so that the line of the face is horizontal. 2dly,
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 inter-
fere with the first act of swallowing. To draw the tongue forcibly out-
wards is very injudicious, as if the tongue be stretched it does not aid in
pressing back the fluid, which gravitates as the tongue is pulled upon.

Fig. 10.
Gamgee's method of holding a horse's head, to give a drench.

and the larynx and pharynx advance; — the animal may thus be choked.
3dly, If an animal makes an effort to cough, rather lose the draught
than risk the danger of suffocation, which so readily occurs if fluid be
suddenly thrown over the tongue. 4thly, Entice efforts of deglutition.

INTRODUCTION.

should the horse obstinately and artfully retain the liquid in his mouth,
Tliis is effected by maniijulating the throat, and exerting pressure in the
intermaxillary space.

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 ropes 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, esjDecially in
a vicious horse; and we have never found it to answer better than the
second manner of introducing a rope-noose over the upper jaw. This
noose is attached to a stick; or slipped over a stable-fork prong, Fig. 10;
and a man can then hold up the head of the heaviest horse and follow
him in his movements. It requires management. I do not like the
fork, as it is a dangerous instrument, and prefer an ordinary twitch. In
Fig. 11, the third manner of holding a horse's head up and exhibiting a

Fig. 11.
Another method for giving a drench.

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 witli his fingers causes the horse to open his mouth
whilst the draught is poured out of the horn with the right hand.

VETEKINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGEKY.

Appliations to the Schneiderian membrane can best be made by the
use of Eey's tube. Fig. 12.

The long arm of the 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. 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 diameter. 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 to the tow; at the same time fluid is poured
into the funnel, and rises in the nasal chamber. If
the horse's head be bent in and held as much as possible
in a perpendicular position, the lotion will pass out at
the opposite nostril. There is sometimes alitle difficulty
in performing this operation with awkward horses, but
by quiet means they may be accustomed to the opera-
tion. 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.

Injections. — A number of instruments have been constructed with a
view to force fluids into the intestines of man and animals. The false
notion has been acted on, that enema syringes or pumps are valuable in
proportion to the force with which they will projDcl liquids into the in-
testinal tube. It has been said, that by that means you overcome obstruc-
tions, and may even under other circumstances carry nutritive fluids into
the caecum, Avliere they will be absorbed.

The best instrument to use for enemas in the horse is Gamgee's funnel.
Fig. 13. It consists of a straight metallic tube twelve inches long, tapered
and rounded off at one end, bent at a right angle at the opposite extrem-
ity, Avhicli supports a broad funnel about six inches deep, and seven in its
greatest diameter. The funnel need not be so large. In using this in-
strument, its extremity requires to be oiled before introduction into the
rectum; so soon as this is effected, the fluid — water, with a little oil, is

INTRODUCTION.

preferable — is poured into the funnel. Experience proves that ^o pump-
ing force is required to inject fluid into the intestines, the effect of gra-
vitation fulfilling the same purpose in a much more simple manner. As
the fluid from the funnel gi-avitates into the rectum, bubbles of gas escape;
the action of the gut, thus mildly stimulated, continues until, with the
repetition of the process at intervals of a quarter of an hour, the required
evacuation is induced, with its attendant
relief. Farmers and others who keep a
number of h orses should obtain an instru-
ment like the one described : made of tin,
it is light, cheap, and very durable.

Disinfectants. — The particles of con-
tagious or infectious matter, like other
organic ferments, are very unstable in
their composition and are easily acted on
by various chemical agents. Such agents
are called Disinfectants. They act either
by poisoning or
killing the fer-
ment; or by ab-
stracting the hy-
drogen from noxious gases and vapors, break them up. Chlorine gas,
carbolic acid, and many other compounds are commonly used for these
purposes.

True disinfectants act chemically by decomposing noxious gases and
organic matters. Such are chlorine and its compounds, sulphurous acid,
Condy's fluid, chloride of lime and soda, carbolic acid, etc. Their
action is produced by their affinity for hydrogen, which is a constituent
of most of the deleterious matters found in the stable. They appro-
priate to themselves this constituent, and by this means break up the
poison. Most disinfectants are also deodorizers.

Deodorizers generally, as distinguished from disinfectants, act me-
chanically. They have an affinity for certain compounds floating in the
air, and imbibe and absorb them. Such are sawdust, powdered char-
coal, plaster of Paris, sulphate of iron, clean dry earth, sand, perman-
ganate of potassa. Deodorizers may, under some circumstances, become
so overcharged with noxious matters that they may of themselves volun-
tarily give them off. Earth, for instance, which is a most valuable

Fig. 13.
Gamgee's funnel for injections.

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

deodorizer, may become so loaded with impurities as to become stinking
Similarly, disinfectants can only combine with a certain proportion of
noxious gases or organic matters, and then become inert and
valueless.

Disinfectants, however, and deodorizers, whose action is somewhat
similar, though very valuable assistants, should never be allowed to take
the place of free ventilation. It is true that they have, as explained
above, a very beneficial effect in killing or breaking up tlie poisonous
particles ; but they are not sufficient thoroughly to purify the air. Free
ventilation, or, in other words, a real and actual change of the air,
whether in the stable or in the sick chamber, is absolutely necessary.
Together with plenty of fresh air and due regard to cleanliness, disin-
fectants and deodorizers are useful means of
purifying the air of stables, and also in neutral-
izing those noxious emanations given off from
the bodies and breath of diseased animals,
which, if undiluted or undestroyed, may be-
come fruitful sources of diseases. It must never,
however, be supposed that they supersede or
even diminish the necessity for adequate venti-
lation and scrupulous cleanliness.

It is a well ascertained fact that in hosj^i-
tals, where much reliance has been placed on
the use of disinfectants, disease has often
spread with greater rapidity and virulence than
in buildings where no such agents have been
used, and where, in consequence, thorough
ventilation has been more carefully attended to.

Steaming may be most efficiently performed by use of the bronchitis
kettle specially made for the purpose, but as few are likely to li^ave
sufficient use for it to warrant its purchase, recourse may be had to the
nose-bag. Fig. 14. Any old grain bag will answer, provided it is clean.
Make some ragged holes in the bottom and about the lower part of the
bag; into this place some clean hay, and pour a couple of quarts of
boiling water upon it, and as soon as the hay is saturated, tie the bag over
the animal's nose. This operation should be repeated as often as the
vapor ceases to rise, for at least an hour at a time.

Poultices, though very convenient in the human subject, are not

Fig. 14.
Nosebag for steaming the respi-
ratory passages.

INTKODUCTIOir.

equally applicable in the horse, because they are not easily fixed, except
on the feet. A poultice, unless made large, dries too rapidly, and is
then apt to cause irritation, instead of soothing. On the other hand, if
made large, it is heavy and difficult to secure. The poultice must not
be tied so tight as to arrest the circulation or to leave a mark. "With this
view, a broad tape or a piece of list should be used instead of a string.
An old stocking with part of the foot cut off makes a good poultice bag
for the lower part of the leg.

Poultices should always be inclosed in a bag made from some thin
but strong material, in order to prevent the substances from which they
are made from becoming entangled with hair, making it very trouble-
some to clean. Fig. 15 also shows how they may be inclosed. They should

■

Fi3. 15.
Enclosure for poultices.

be snugly fastened by bandages, as just stated, to the diseased part,
and removed as often as necessary to keep them sweet. Applications of
various liniments, irritants, disinfectants, anodynes, etc., may be made
by mixing with the substance of the poultice, or spreading upon its
surface.

Poultices intended for the special purpose of giving warmth to a part
are usually made of hot bran. Those intended for relaxation may be
made of equal parts of moist bran, linseed meal, and olive oil ; or of
boiled carrots or turnips mixed with bran. For ill-conditioned sores
linseed answers best. If a sore is painful, opium may be added to any
of the above. To soften the horn in inflammation of the feet, vinegar
may be added to the bran. A poultice may be made an astringent dress-
ing by the addition of sulphate of zinc.

Powders, if tasteless, may be given sprinkled on the food, or mixed
with molasses as electuaries, or of any kind, nauseous or otherwise, in a

24:

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

ball. It is not at all necessary that a ball should be always large or of a
fixed size; indeed, the smaller the better, if it can be as surely adminis-
tered.

Electuaries are easily given by rubbing on the tongue or the teeth,
from whence they are at once licked and swallowed with the saliva.

Medicines of which but a very small quantity is administered at a
time, may be dropped or poured upon the tongue.

In applying Blisters, the affected part should have the hair closely
clipped or shaven off. If properly applied and watched, blisters should
not leave any permanent mark or scar. If a blister appears to be too
severe, it should be removed, the vesicant washed off, and olive oil freely
rubbed over the part. Never remove the loose cuticle raised by a blister
until it begins to peel off naturally. If the horse shows any disposition
to gnaw at the blister, his head should be tied up so that he cannot reach

Fig. 16.

Cradle to prevent biting at a wound.

it, or a cradle put on his neck. Fig. 16. This may readily be made by
any one with some smooth light sticks and stout twine.

Blisters, whether intended to produce simple irritation or redness or
to actively inflame the deep tissue, are applied by rubbing or smearing
upon the skin such agents as will produce the desired result. After suf-
ficient action has been set up, further irritation may be arrested by gently
washing off the substance used, and applying olive oil.

Bleeding is a most powerful and certain depressant and sedative.
It lessens the action of the heart and lungs. It produces this effect
mainly by diminishing the quantity of blood in circulation, and it also
acts in some not very easily ascertainable way on the nervous system.

INTKODUCTION.

When it is thought necessary to employ it, blood enough should be
taken to produce a marked alteration in the character of the pulse. The
blood should be drawn in a full stream, so as to produce the effect as
quickly as possible. If bleeding is resorted to at all, it should be in the
very early stage of disease, before the strength fails.

Bleeding, however, is not a safe remedy. As a general rule it should
be avoided; aad if there is any doubt as to its advisability, it is always
safer not to bleed. Far more horses are killed than saved by this rem-
edy.

General blood-letting in horses is commonly performed by opening
the jugular vein. For this purpose a fleam, Fig. 17, is preferable to a

Fia. 17.
Fleams for blood-letting.

lancet, for reasons that need not be discussed here. Five to seven quart
is a full bleeding, and one such blood-letting from a strong and previously
healthy horse is sufficient in nearly all cases. A recent writer on ailments
of the horse gives the following detailed directions for bleeding, viz. :

'' The instruments usually preferred are the fleam and blood-stick, on
account of the certainty of tapping the vein to the proper extent, and
thus making an opening with mechanical precision — neither too small
nor too large. A less scientific substitute is the lancet, which in the
eyes of some looks more 'elegant' and 'gentlemanly;' but the days of
elegance at the expense of precision and certainty have gone by.

There are three important points to be observed in the operation.
First, it is essential to bear in mind that the skin over the vein is very
freely movable, and readily forms a valve at any time between tapping
the vein and the final pinning up. Second, the use of a rusty instrument.

26 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

or one that lias the least particle of refuse left after former use, will set
up inflammation. Third, when pinning up, any dragging upon the skin
will cause a thrombus : including the vein will cause inflammation : and
tightening the figure of eight ligature over the pin too much will cause
gangrene of the skin, inflammation, and suppuration, or a sloughing
process.

No securing is required, but a snaflie bridle is to be preferred. Having
brought the horse's neck, near or left side, to a good light, we take a
a sponge freshly wrung out of water and smoothe the hair with it over
the bleeding place. This should be the bottom of the upper third of the
neck. Next we get an assistant to elevate the chin, and keep it elevated
all the time. A tall assistant will rest the chin of a medium-sized horse
on his shoulder, whilst a short assistant will find his head the best, with
the hand or hands as a cushion. If the assistant cannot spare a hand to
cover the eye next the bleeding side, a duster had better be used as a
blinder. Now the operator should take the clean fleam, moistened with
his saliva — not dipped in bad, rancid oil or lard, or anything which will
inoculate — in his left hand, holding it between his forefinger and thumb,
and make steady pressure, wWiout dragging upon the sJcin, upon the
vein with the remaining fingers of his left hand. He must be patient,
and keep up a steady pressure thus — resting his right hand, which holds
the blood-stick, upon the mane — for two or three minutes, or until the
vein has risen and is quite ropy and tense. He now quietly lowers the
fleam, and lays it along the vein in its central axis, and then quietly
brings the stick forwards and gives the fleam a heavy blow, when there
will be a spurt of blood. It is not essential, but it is far better, to keep the
left hand quietly pressing upon the vein, and let the assistant or a third
person hold the receptacle for catching the blood. A third person is
best; then it allows the head to be kept elevated and steady, and allows
the operator to keep up his steady pressure to the end.

Before commencing, it is a good plan to form a rough estimate of the
capacity of the receptacle for the blood — usually a common stable pail;
then we stop when six pints have been drawn for a large horse and a
heavy bleeding, or when four, or even three pints, have been abstracted
for a bleeding Avhose object is to relieve the right side of the heart — as in
enteritis, etc., where we have a small, wiry, emjjty artery, and the blood
at first flows black and ' treacly ' in a thin stream. A good indication
for stopping the bleeding and pinning up consists in a larger flow com-

INTKODUCTION. 27

mencing, of less dark color, etc. Of course, wnen tne amateur is used
to the feel of the pulse, he finds the artery grow larger and softer at the
time the blood begins to flow freer and become better in color, and then
he has the further assurance of the desired end being gained. Long,
starving, wasting diseases generally, and some blood diseases, cause wiry,
empty arteries; but where there have been no such causes at work, and
the horse within a few days, or it may be hours — as in enteritis — comes
to have a thin, wiry pulse, it is a sure and certain indication of a crowded
overwhelmed right heart, which needs relieving, when the bleeding
never fails to deliver the animal from such a disastrous combination.
Even in human practice, where general bleeding has been so largely
abandoned these forty years past, the above indication has always called
forth the lancet with all reasonable practitioners.

The altered color is a sign for stopping in the above-named condition,
then sighing is a sign for stopping under any circumstances; so is a di-
lated pupil, though sighing and a dilated pupil are usually present at
the same time. We hardly need say that the less blood drawn, sufficient
for our purpose, the better, and under no circumstances should a horse
be bled beyond six or eight pints. If the hand be not used to press on
the vein, but the edge of the receptacle be used, care has still to be taken
lest we drag on the skin."

Pinning-up or arresting the flow of blood is the most important part
of the operation. (For full directions see the section of this chapter on
Sutures.)

The horse should always have his head tied up nign, ana tnus stea-
died, for one or two hours after bleeding, when practicable. We ought
never to forget that an opiate (tincture of opium as a draught, or mor-

€

Fig. 18.
Acupressure.

phia hypodermically) in suitable cases acts like a cliarm after general
blood-letting; it is, in fact, the coffee after dinner of therapeutics.

If the blood is drawn from an artery, the operation is best performed
by a lancet. In some cases of cerebral meningitis, the temporal artery

VETERINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

has been opened with good effect, and the wound in the skin closed by
means of a pin, retained in its position by a small quantity of tow or
thread. If the haemorrhage is not arrested by this method in the case
of arteriotomy, a pin or needle can be placed underneath the artery
Fig. 18, as in acupressure. In this way it will be most effectually arrested,
at the cost, however, of the vessel, which will become obliterated at that
spot. But this is of little consequence, as the collateral circulation will
be sufficient to maintain the integrity of the part.

Local blood-letting is performed upon the inflamed part, or as near
to it as possible, and the object is speedily to unload the engorged blood-
vessels. It may be done by scarification, incision, or puncture. In con-
junctivitis, for example, it may be drawn from the vessels of the inflamed
part by scarifying the inner surface of the eyelids, or by opening the
angular vein. In inflammatory disease of the foot, any quantitv can be
obtained by puncturing the coronary plexus of veins.

When general blood-letting from the jugular is practised, the animal's

Fig. 19.

Fig. 20.
Two forms of seton needles

head should be elevated and a full stream of blood allowed to flow from
a sufficiently large orifice in the vein. If this be done, a smaller amount
of blood drawn will make a much greater impression on the pulse than
when the orifice in the vein is small, the blood flowing in a trickling
stream, and the head depressed.

Setons are usually introduced by means of needles made specially
for the purpose, Figs. 19 and 20, although in some places a seton may

INTBODUCTON.

bo run under the skin by cvitting a channel with a long-bladed pen-
knife, and pushing a stiff cord through. If the seton is to be inserted
under the skin only, pinch it up and make a short cut, say half an inch,
with a knife, then insert the needle and push it along just under the
skin to where it is to come out. Feel for its point,
and cut another slit through which bring out the
needle. Whether cord or tape is used, see-saw it
once or twice, knot it well at each end, after inser-
tion, to prevent its drawing through. Some horses
will allow this to be done without noticing it
much; others should be blindfolded, and with
still others a twitchup will be needed in addition.

If the seton seems to cause itching, the horse
must have his head tied so that he cannot get at it,
or a cradle put on his neck, or he may pull it
out with his teeth. Various ointments may be
used to smear the seton in order to get up the re-
quired irritation. Setons should not be used in
inflammations of the tendons and ligaments, because of the permanent
thickening which is apt to result from their use.

Firing, or the application of the actual cautery, is a severe form of
irritant, and is chiefly used in the treatment of bone diseases. The old
method was to apply the iron in lines, but the use of the instrument here
figured, Fig. 22, for pyropuncture is much less likely to leave a blemish.

Fig. 21.
A seton in position.

Fig. 22.
Williams' instrument for pyropuncture.

The iron should be heated 7'ed hot, not a white heat, and applied
with suflBcient pressure to pierce the skin and to enter the new deposit.
It may be necessary to cast the horse, but a twitchuu is restraint enough
for some.

Sutures used in veterinary surgery are chiefly the Interrupted su-
ture and the Twisted suture. In preparing to close a wound by suture,
great care should be taken to see that it is entirely clean before bringing
the edges together. If several sutures are necessary, it is best to have as

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

many needles as there are to be stitches, all ready threaded to avoid de-
lay in threading. Dip the needle and also the thread into a five-per-cent
solution of carbolic acid to insure their being aseptic. Fig. 23 will show

Fig. 23.
Proper method of holding needle in making sutures.

very clearly how the needle should be held. Upon the longer or shorter
distance from the edge of the wound it is desired to make the stitch
will depend the length and degree of curvature of the needle. Figs. 24,
25, 26, 27 represent various suture needles. When the point of the needle

FiQ. 24.

Fig. 25, Fig. 26.

Needles for making sutures.

Fig. 27.

emerges it should be seized and drawn through with sufficient thread to
permit its being tied into a knot. It is then drawn together carefully so
as to bring the edge surfaces of the wound smoothly together and se-
curely tied. Fig. 29 and Fig. 30. The suture must not be drawn too

INTKODUCTION. 31

tightly, or inflammation and suppuration will follow; nor must the

iiiii

Fig. ■~o.
Tying the thread in making a knot.

Fig. 29.

Long and short stitch in making

a suture.

knot be allowed to come directly over the wound. The reef-knot, Fig. 30,
is the one commonly tied, though, when there is a tendency to gaping in

Fig. 33.
Glasshead shawl pin.

Fig. 32.
Twisted suture.

the wound a regular surgical knot. Fig. 31, should be used. The threads

32 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

should not be removed under ten days or a fortnight. To draw them
out, cut the suture close to the knot and placing the finger upon the
flesh between the line of the cicatrix and the point where traction is to
be made, draw carefully and steadily out. If the hair has previously
been removed around the Avound, apply strips of sticking plaster to sup-
port the new line of union for a time.

The twisted suture, also called the pin and hare-lip suture, is made
by thrusting pins through the margins of a wound and then winding a
thread about them, as shown in Fig. 32. Fig. 33 shows the common black
glass-head shawl pin which can be obtained at any store, and is the best
for this purpose. The pins should be inserted from a half to three-quar-
ters of an inch from the edge of the wound and brought out the opposite
side at the same distance. After they are all in place, wrap the thread
as shown. It will be an improvement to take an interrupted stitch be-
tween the pins as shown. The pins may be removed in from three to
five days. Place the thumb and forefinger upon the loops of the thread
and gently drawing them together, draw out the pin b^' a twisting or
rotating motion to free it from any adhesion.

Slings. — It not infrequently happens that sick horses have a dread
of lying down and stand until utterly exhausted, retarding and even
preventing any cure of their malady. Every horse-owner therefore
should know how to prepare and use slings. Most stables are so
situated that a block and tackle can be fastened into the beams about the
stall; if not, a four-post frame suflBciently high to make the cross bars
line with the back of the animal, must be erected on which to stretch
the canvas. If blocks are fastened to beams overhead, the arrangement
will be as shown in Fig. 34 or Fig. 34*. In this case the sail cloth or
whatever stout material is used to go under the belly and support the
horse should be wrapped twice around two-inch rollers or sticks of wood,
and thoroughly nailed.

If the frame is to be used — and in the country it is preferable, because
everything necessary can be obtained at little or no cost — procure four
crotched posts and set them in the ground a little more than three feet apart
one way and five feet the other; let the crotches come about as high as
the middle of the body, and on them rest on each side two strong hori-
zontal bars; above the bars tie a stick across the other way from post to post
to stiffen them, then walk your horse between the posts and fasten the
cloth securely to the parallel bars on both sides, passiug it under his

INTRODUCTION.

Fig. 34.

Horse in sling suspended with two blocks from

beam overhead.

belly, just so that it fits snugly.

Fig. 35.

Horse suspended with one block from

beam overhead.

VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND 8UEGKKY,

The material used for the support should extend from the forelegs
to just ill front of the sheath in males.

If the stall is floored, get posts which will fit snugly between the floor
'and the ceiling, and nail them firmly at top and bottom. The horizontal
bars may be tied securely to these uprights, a slight notch in the up •
rights will insure against slipping.

Bandages are often useful in veterinary practice to retain poultices,
or blisters upon particular parts of the body, and also to protect a
wounded part. They are not always easy to adjust, and a variety of
methods are therefore given here to aid the inexperienced.

Fig. 36 shows the customary method of applying a roller bandage,
with which all professional men are familiar.

Fig. 37 indicates a way of fixing a bandage upon the forehead.

Fig. 37.
Bandage for the forehead.

Fig. 36.
Applying the roller bandage to the leg.

Fig. 38 is useful in cases where the eye is affected in any manner;
At the top a hole is cut through which one ear is thrust, while the bands
tie under the opposite one.

Fig. 39 is formed of a piece of muslin cut twice as wide at the top
as at the bottom, and affixed as shown. It is useful in poulticing or blis-
tering on the under side of the jaw.

Fig. 40 shows a bandage for the front of the throat.

INTKODUCTION.

Fig. 41 a larger one, intended to cover the whole of the under
side of the neck. Unless such bandages are thoroughly tied, as here

Fig. 38.
Bandage for Eye.

Fig. 39.
Bandage for the under side of jaw.

Fig. 40,
Bandage for front of throat.

Fig. 41.
Bandage for whole under side of neck.

shown, the constant motion of the norse causes them to retract and be-
come loose and baggy.

Fig. 42 exhibits the simple manner of affixing a bandage to the withers.

Fig. 43 and Fig. 44, the more elaborate strapping necessary for the
shoulder and elbow respectively.

Fig. 45 and Fig. 46 represent the bandaging of the rump and the
back. A bandage for the buttocks is shown in Fig. 4?.

Fig. 48 represents a bandage for the front of the belly. This, of
course, can be shifted backward, as may be necessary.

VETEKINAKY MEDICINE AND S[JKGERY.

Fig. 42.
Bandage for withers.

Fig. 43.
Bandage for the shoulder.

Fig. 50 clearly shows a simple method of bandaging the foreleg above
the knee, and Fig. 51, the hind leg above the hock.

Fig. 44.
Bandage for the elbow.

INTRODUCTION.

Of course, an ingenious person will have little difiBculty in devising
various ways of applying and retaining bandages upon all these different

Fig. 45.
Bandage for the back.

parts. It is necessary always to exercise care not to draw the bands used
so tight as to check the circulation and thus do more harm than good,

Fig. 46.
Bandage for the rump.

Fig. 47.
Bandage for the buttocks.

especially when any bandaging is left for servants to do should they be

38 VETEEINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

advised against such an error. Strings or cords should never be used-

FiG. 48.
Bandage for belly.

strips of list or muslin are more comfortable, safer, and equally secure.

Fig. 49.
Bandage for foreleg above the knee.

Bandage for hind leg above the hock.

Twitchups are among the most simple of the contrivances to dis-
tract the attention of the horse while he is being operated upon. A loop
of rope, never less than three-eighths of one inch in diameter — and a
half-inch is better — fastened to the end of a stout stick, constitutes the

INTKODUCTION.

apparatus. The rope is caught under the upper lip of the horse and
twisted, until it tightly compresses the flesh ; the degree of pressure is
to be regulated by the necessities of the case, care being taken not to use
undue violence. Fig. 51 shows the operation.

Fig. 51.
Showing the Mode of Using the Twitch.

Holding up a Forefoot will give considerable control of some
horses. But others will contrive to kick badly, either forward or back-
ward, with the hind feet, when thus held, especially if any of the weight
is supported on the bent leg.

The Side-Line is a much more efficacious contrivance for controlling
the horse.

A cart-rope is required as a side-line. Take a long, stout cart-rope,
fold it equally once, thei^ tie a knot so as to form a loop the size of a
collar to sit comfortably on the shoulders; now place the loop on like a
collar, and take the knot and ends of the rope between the fore legs;
next carry one or both ends of the rope between the hind legs, and, having
arranged them while standing behind the horse, bring forward each end,
or only one end of the rope, and thread it tightly through the collar loop.
The rope, or ropes, may be allowed to drop, so as to encircle the pasterns;
then draw the rope tight, by standing at the shoulder just slightly be-
hind the collar loop.

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Another method is to use a collar, passing the rope through the ring,
as shown in Fig. 53.

One or both feet may thus be controlled. When one leg is raised, it
will be necessary only to draw it clear from the ground, so that the horse
is entirely deprived of its support. To pull it too far forward will only
make him nervous and restless, and be of no advantage.

Throwing or Casting. — No better instructions can be given for this
operation than the admirable directions of Karey, which are therefore
quoted here in full:

'•'Everything that we want to teach the horse must be commenced in

Fig. 52.
The Use of the Side-Line.

such a way as to give him an idea of what you want him to do, and then
be repeated till he learns it perfectly. To make a horse lie down, bend
his left fore leg and slip a loop over it, so that he cannot get it down.
Then put a surcingle around his body, and fasten one end of a long strap
around the other fore leg just above the hoof. Place the other end under
the surcingle, so as to keep the strap in the right direction; take a short

LNTSODUCION.

hold of it with your right hand; stand on the left side of the horse; grasp
the bit in your left hand, pull steadily on the strap with your right; bear
against his shoulder till you cause him to move. As soon as he lifts his
weight, your pulling will raise the other foot, and he will have to come on
his knees. Keep the strap tight in your hand, so that he cannot straighten
his leg, if he rises up. Hold him in his position, and turn his head
toward you; bear against his side with your shoulder — not hard, but with
a steady, equal pressure — and in about ten minutes he will lie down.
As soon as he lies down, he will be completely conquered, and you can
handle him as you please. Take off the straps, and straighten out his
legs; rub him lightly about the face and neck with your hand the way the
hair lies; handle all his legs; and, after he has lain ten or twenty minutes,

Fig. 53
Rarey's Strap No. 1.

let him get up again. After resting him a short time, make him lie
down as before. Eepeat the operation three or four times, which will be
sufficient for one lesson. Give him two lessons a day; and when you
have given him four lessons, he will lie down by taking hold of one foot.
As soon as he is well broken to lie down in this way, tap him on the op-
posite leg with a stick when you take hold of his foot, and in a few days he
will lie down from the mere motion of the stick.

RECAPITULATION AND MINUTE DIRECTIONS.

In practising the foregoing method upon a colt, he should be first
accustomed to be handled, and taught to lead easily. In approaching a
spiteful or vicious horse, you had better make your advances with a half
opened door between you and him ; gradually make his acquaintance,
and teach him that you do not care for his open mouth ; but a regular

VETEKINAEY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

biter mnst be gagged with a wooden bit made for the purpose, so large
that he cannot close his mouth.

Of course there is no difficulty in handling the leg of a quiet horse or
colt, and by constantly working from the neck down to the fetlock, you
may do what you j^lease. But many horses, and even colts, have a most
dangerous trick of striking out with their fore-legs. There is no better
protection against this than a cart-wheel. The wheel may either be used
loose, or the animal may be led up to a cart loaded with hay, when the

Fig. 54.
Horse with Rarey's Strap No. 1 in position.

horse-tamer can work under the cart through one of the wheels, while
the colt is nibbling the load.

Having, then, so far soothed a colt that he will permit you to take
up his legs without resistance, take the strap No. 1, pass the tongue
through the loop under the buckle so as to form a noose, slip it over the
near fore-leg and draw it close up to the pastern-joint, and fasten it as
represented in the engraving (Fig. 54.) But you must not be rash in
lifting the leg, and employ but little force in doing so. It is better to

INTKODUCTION.

wait until he lifts it willingly by the use of gentle means. Do not get
out of temper if you have to make a dozen ineffectual attempts to raise
it. The near fore-leg being securely strapped, and the horse secured
from biting, if necessary, with the wooden bit, you will then make him
hop about, as before stated. This he will learn to do easily. The trainer
must, however, take care to keep behind his horse's shoulder and walk
in a circle, or he will be likely to be struck by the animal's head or
strapped up leg.

A horse can hop on three legs for two or three miles, if you give him
his own time, and no plan that has ever been tried is equal to this for
curing a kicking or balky horse. After you have tired him out pretty

Fig. 55.
Rarey's Strap No. 2.

well in this manner, you proceed to make him lie down, which process
requires considerable patience and skill. For this purpose take strap No.
2 (Fig. 55), and making a loop with it put it round the off fore leg.
With a veTy quiet horse this can easily be done ; with a wild or vicious
horse you may have to make him step into it ; at any rate, when once
the off fore-leg is caught in the noose it must be drawn tight round the
pastern-Joint. Then put a stout glove on your right hand, pass the strap
through the belly part of the surcingle, take a firm short hold of it with
your gloved right hand, standing close to the horse behind his shoulders,
and with your left hand take hold of the near rein ; by pulling the horse
gently to the near side he will be almost sure to hop ; if he will not, he
mast be led. The moment he lifts up his off fore-foot, you must draw
up strap No. 2 tightly and steadily. The horse will then go down on
his knees (Fig. 56), for if you hold the strap tight he will not be able to
stretch out his foot again. As soon as a horse recovers from his astonish-

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY,

ment at being brought to his knees, he begins to resist ; that is, he rears
up on his hind legs, and springs about in a manner that will sometimes
alarm the trainer (Fig. 57). Daring these struggles you must not try
your strength against the horse's strength, but merely follow him about,
holding the strap just tight enough to prevent him from putting out his
off fore-leg. As long as you keep close to Mm, and behind Ms shoulders,
you are in very little danger. The bridle in the left hand must be used
like steering lines, by pulling to the right or left as occasion requires ;
the horse, turning on his hind legs, may be fatigued by being forced to

Fia. 56.
The Horse on his knees.

walk backwards. The strap passing through the surcingle keeps, or
ought to keep, the trainer in his right place ; he is not to pull or in any
way fatigue himself more than he can help, but, standing upright, simply \
follow the horse about, guiding him with the bridle so he will not pre-
cipitate himself against the side of tlie stable or room in which you are
exercising him. When held and guided properly, he will soon sink down.
Corn-fed horses will hold out longer than grass-fed ones, and the most
energetic horse will scarcely struggle more than ten or fifteen minutes.

INTKODUCTION.

Usually at the end of eight minutes' violent struggles, the animal sinks
forward on his knees, sweating profusely, with heaving flanks and shak-
ing tail. If he still resists, he may be forced by the bit to walk back-
wards and forwards, but this is generally unnecessary, as by pushing
gently at his shoulder, or by pulling steadily the off-rein, you can got
him to fall, in the one case on the near side, in the other on the off-side;
but this assistance should be so slight that the horse will not attemjat to
resist it. The horse will often make a final spring when you think he
is quite beaten ; but at length he slides over, and lies down, panting and
exhausted, on his side. If he is a pretty spirited animal, take advantage

Fig. 57.
Horse rearing with Rarey's Strap on.

of the moment to tie up the off fore-leg to the surcingle, as securely as
the other, in a slip-loop knot.

Now let your horse recover his wind, and then encourage him to make
a second fight. It will often be more stubborn and more fierce than the
first. The object of this tying-up operation is, that he shall thoroughly
exhaust without hurting himself, and that he shall come to the conclu-
sion that it is you who, by your superior strength, have conquered him,
and that you are always able to conquer him.

4:6 VETEKINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGEKY.

Under the old rough-ridiug system, the most vicious liorses were occa-
sionally conquered by daring men Avith firm seats and strong arms, who
rode and flogged them into subjection ; but these conquests were tem-
porary, and usually personal • with every stranger the animal would be-
gin his game again.

One advantage of this system is, that the horse is allowed to exhaust
himself under circumstances that render it impossible for him to struggle
long enough to do himself any harm. It has been suggested that a blood-
vessel would be likely to be broken, or apoplexy produced by the exertion
of leaping from the hind legs; but, up to the present time, no accident of
any kind has been reported.

Treatment of the Horse after he is Doion.

If the horse has fought hard in going down, he will then usually lie
perfectly still, and you can gentle him, scrape the sweat off, and rub him
down, smoothing the hair of his legs, and drawing the fore one straight
out. In this position you have the o^oportunity of making him perfectly
familar with you, and the more you fondle him and reconcile him to you
the better. His head, tail and legs should now be handled with freedom,
caressing and talking to him all the while. If he has hitherto resisted
shoeing, handle all his legs with a view to accomplish it, and if he attempt
to resist, continue until you subdue him, speaking to him with a voice of
authority. If he is a bad kicker you may be obliged to confine his fore-
legs; and with those tied, you may spend an hour in handling his legs,
tapping the hoofs with your hand or a hammer — all this to be done in a
firm, measured, soothing manner; only now and then, if he resist, crying,
as you paralyze him with the ropes, " Wo ! " in a determined manner. It
is by this continuel soothing and handling that you establish confidence
between the horse and yourself. After patting him as much as you deem
needful, say for ten minutes or a quarter of an hour, you may encourage
him to rise. Some horses will require a good deal of helping, and it may
be necessary to draw out their fore-legs before them. The handling of
the limbs of colts in this condition, particularly requires caution. A
colt tormented by flies, will kick forward nearly up to the fore-legs. If
a horse, unstrapped, attempts to rise, you may easily stop him by taking

INTRODUCTON.

hold of a fore-leg and doubling it back to the strapped position. If by
chance he should be too quick, don't resist, for it is an essential principle
of this system never to enter into a contest with a horse unless you are
certain to be victorious. In all these operations you must be calm, and
never be in a hurry, or in a passion."

Catheters. — It is sometimes necessary to empty the bladder of the
horse by means of the catheter. Those used for the
horse should be about thirty inches long, and provided
with a stilette, Fig. 58. For the mare a metal tube
curved as shown in Fig. 59, about twelve inches long,
should be used.

The catheter is passed along the floor of the vagi-
na in mares, preceded by the index finger of the lefc
hand, which carefully raises the thin delicate valve
guarding the urethral opening; it then enters the blad-
der, and urine at once flows readily. This precaution
should be observed in all animals confined to a recum-
bent position, as untoward results may arise from pres-
sure of the abdominal contents obstructing the flow of
urine.

The mctle catlieter is not so readily passed into the
bladder, owing to the greater length of the urethral
canal, which extends from the bladder to the end of the
penis. Usually, however, the operation is not difficult
if the ordinary precautions are observed, and sjaasm of
the neck of the bladder is not too violent. When that
occurs, the injection of opium, etc., as already named,
may induce a partial relaxation if applied first. In

Fig. 59.
Female Catheter for removing the Urine.

Fig. 58.
The male or flex-
ible Gather, with
StUette.

most cases the penis is relaxed, and hanging flabby and pendulous
from nervous exhaustion, and therefore is readily seized; when it is con-
tracted by strong Sj^asm within the sheath, as sometimes happens, there

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

is difficulty in drawing it down, especially if the interior of the sheath
is lined by an accumulation of black and offensive secretion, when wash-
ing by soap and water will be necessary. On the hand being passed up,
the back only should be greased, the fingers being previously dried, a
simple proceeding which will enable the operator to hold the penis more
firmly, and maintain gentle traction, while the other hand softly rubs
down the perinjBum to hasten relaxation.

The penis being withdrawn from the sheath, the end must be exam-
ined for mechanical obstructions at the preputial opening, which often
exist in the form of accumulations of sabulous or fine gritty paste, some-
times hardened, and by growth press upon the urethral opening and
close it effectualUy against the passage of urine. These accumulations

Fig. 60
The Male Urethra.

sometimes acquire such proportions and hardness as to merit the name
oi 2)reputial calculi. They are readily removed by pressing the thumb-
nail beneath from one side.

These preliminaries being arranged, the flexible catheter is passed in
the following manner: — An assistant having rubbed it over with oil, and
placed the stilette inside, the end is put within the urethra, and the
whole tube follows in a straight line until it reaches the notch or turn at
the ischium when the stilette is withdrawn; the tube is then pushed
gently on as it rounds the bone, the operator using the left hand to direct
it forwards, when it readily enters the bladder, and urine follows with a

INTRODUCTIOK. ^g

gurgling sound. In some instances it may be needful to allow the cathe-
ter to remain, as in paralysis or atony of the muscular coat of the bladder
induced by long-continued distention, an occurrence not altogether rare,
as following a long journey, during which the animal has not had an
opportunity of urinating.
4

CHAPTER IL
DISEASES OF THE EESPIEATORY ORGANS.

Catarrh, Common Cold, Coryza, Chronic Nasal Catarrh, Nasal Gleet, Ozaena,
Chronic Cough, Laryngitis, Sore Throat, Angina, Bronchitis, Pneumonia, In-
flammation of the Lungs, Pleuro-Pneumonia, Congestion of the Lungs, Pulmo-
nary Apoplexy, Pleurisy, Pleuritis, Inflammation of the Pleura, Asthma,
Broken Wind, Heaves, Thick Wind, Roaring, Highblowing, Whistling,
Grunting.

NASAL CATARRH.

Synonyms. — Common cold; Coryza.

Definition. — Nasal catarrh is an acute inflammation of the mucous
membrane which lines the nostrils. It is the same affection as cold in
the head in the human subject. It is attended by a sero-mucous discharge
from the nostrils, increased redness of the lining membrane, oozing of
tears from the corners of the eyes, occasionally by swelling under the
jaws, and by a snorting cough, with or without perceptible fever.

Etiology. — Nasal catarrh in adult horses usually arises from some
neglect in the management of the animal or of the stables — from sudden
changes of temperature, and from exposure to cold and wet. Young
horses which have been at pasture, when first kept in warm stables, are
frequently affected with it.

It is sometimes said to be epizootic; but it is far more probable that
the same lack of ventilation, and bad management, which produces cold
in one horse is the predisposing cause for the others in the same stable.
It is naturally most frequent during cold damp weather.

Symptoms. — The premonitory symptoms are sneezing, loss of appetite,
dulness of the eye, a rough coat, and dryness and redness of the mucous

VETERIJSTARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

membrane lining the nostrils, followed by a slight discharge, at first thin
and watery, but soon becoming thicker, yellowish-white, and sometimes
profuse. These symptoms are accompanied by slight fever. The bowels
are usually constipated. In many cases the throat is more or less sore,
and the animal has some cough.

If the disease be neglected, the glands under the jaw may become in-
flamed and swollen, and the throat may become positively sore.

Fig. 61.

Treatment. — This is usually a very simple matter if attended to
promptly. Eemove the animal to a loose box if possible, give abundance
of fresh air, avoiding all draughts; warm clothing, if the weather be cold,
and feed with bran mashes, and a moderate amount of good hay, cut, and
moistened with water. One-half ounce of sweet spirits of nitre may be
given daily, in the water, of which allow plenty. A few days of this
treatment will usually effect a cure. Some horses are so particular about
the water they drink that the slightest unusual peculiarity will cause them
to refuse it. In such cases give the nitre in the mash.

If, however, the running at the nose be considerable and the cough
troublesome, relief may be obtained by steaming the head frequently
during the day. This may be done by keeping the head over a pail of
hot water, which is stirred with a whisp of hay or straw; or, a more
thorough method is to make a bag of some coarse material (an old grain
bag will answer), half or twice as long again and of the same proportion-
ate width as the ordinary nose-bag, with a broad strap to buckle over
the horse's head. (Fig. 61.) Into this bag pour half a peck of
sawdust or chopped hay, and upon this a gallon of boiling water,

DISEASES OF TUE KESPIKATORY ORGANS. 53

mix thoroughly, and allow the superfluous water to drain off be-
fore applying the bag. If the patient becomes feverish, a dose of

Sweet spirits of nitre 5 ss.

Nitrate of potassium 3 ij.

may be given once or twice a day for two or three days. Active purga-
tive medicine in this, as in all diseases in which the respiratory organs
are affected, should never be given. If the bowels are constipated, instead
of the previous medicine, a dose consisting of

Epsom salts § ij.

Nitrate of potassium § iss.

may be given twice a day until the desired effect is produced; or an in-
jection of warm water (100° F.) may be administered. If the cough
be troublesome, rub the throat with

Soap liniment ^ pint

Strong liquid ammonia 3 i.

or if a stronger irritant be desired, add another drachm of the ammonia.
Nasal catarrh, if neglected, may terminate in laryngitis, bronchitis,
pneumonia, or other diseases of the respiratory organs. In some few
cases it becomes chronic, and is then known as nasal gleet.

NASAL GLEET.

Synonyms. — Chronic discharge from the nose; Chronic nasaPcatarrh;
Ozaena.

Definition. — Nasal gleet is the name given to a chronic discharge,
generally intermittent, but sometimes continuous, usually from one nos-
tril only.

The discharge usually falls freely away from the nostrils, and is not
of that glue-like adherent character which is peculiar to glanders. In

54: . VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY

ordinaiy cases, the matter is white and about the thickness of cream,
generally uniform in character, but sometimes curdy, clotty, or lumpy.
Occasionally it is yellowish in color. When the discharge is connected
with disease of teeth, it generally has an offensive odor.

In ordinary cases the lining membrane of the nose betrays no symp-
toms of acute inflammation; but, on the contrary, its surface is of a pal-
lid hue, and it is free from joustules or ulcers. These symptoms also
distinguish this affection from glanders.

Etiology. — Nasal gleet is usually the result of neglected catarrh or
of influenza.

It may also accompany chronic inflammation and thickening of the
lining membrane of the nose; and occasionally from the back pressure of a
diseased tooth upon the bone causing inflammation of the maxillary si-
nuses, or from impaction of food, during a fit of coughing, in the fossa of
the turbinated bones.

Treatment. — Before the disease has really become chronic, the con-
gestion of the membrane may generally be relieved and the membrane itself
brought into a healthy state by the frequent inhalation of steam, which
is most readily obtained applied by use of the steam bag (Fig. 15) — (see
manner of use on page 22).

An ordinary fly blister may be applied over the region of the sinuses
of the nose.

Chloride of lime sprinkled in the bottom of the manger, so that the
horse may constantly inhale the odor, is said to be useful.

If, however, either from neglect or in spite of treatment the discharge
becomes chronic, and nasal gleet, as defined above, is fairly established,
there can scarcely be said to be any treatment on which we can place
much reliance. Attention to the general health, good care, moderate
but not violent exercise, and the administration of mineral and vegetable
tonics, such as

Sulphate of copper,
Nitrate of potassium,

Powdered gentian aa I i.

Make into a ball with linseed meal.

One of these given night and morning, and continued for ten days,
and then after the interval of a week repeated, is very beneficia} in im-
proving the state of the system. Or, instead of the above.

DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATOKT ORGANS. 55

Powdered cantharideSc gr. vi.

Powdered gentian 3 ij.

To be made into a ball with linseed meal,

may be similarly given. Improvement in the general health is the great
object in the treatment. Nasal gleet, like all chronic diseases, is very
difficult to cure; but nature, when fairly assisted, often enables the part
to throw off the morbid action.

If, however, there is reason to believe that the discharge proceeds
only from the lining membrane of the nostrils and that the sinuses are
not affected, cold water may be thrown up the nostrils twice a day by means
of a large syringe or, what is much better, Key's tube (Fig. 63). The larger

Fig. 62.
Key's tube for nasal injection.

tube should be about fifteen inches long, and one and a half inches in
diameter, expanding, as shown, at the top. The short arm is about five
inches in length and the aperture nearly an inch in diameter; on the
short arm a closely fitting leather ring is slipped, four inches in diameter.
This ring serves as a base to support wet tow or cotton wrapped around
the arm which enters the nostril, and when that is compressed serves to
close it completely, so that the fluid poured into the larger arm cannot
escape, but rises until it passes over the septum and flows from the oppo-

56 VETEKINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

site nostril. Nervous horses may have to be blindfolded. Gentle means
will usually enable the operator to use this tube without difficulty. A
solution of

Sulphate of zinc 3 i.

Water 1 pint

or,

Carbolic acid 3 ij.

Water 1 pint

may be injected with this tube twice a day into the sinus affected and re-
lease the collected matter. After the matter has been released, the sinus
will require to be washed out with tepid water by means of a syringe; and
perhaps the membrane may require further treatment, as described in
the next paragraph.

If the cause lie in the disease of a tooth, it may be possible to remove
it; but generally this is not practicable, and we can hardly hope that any
remedial measures will be effectual in arresting the discharge from the
irritated membrane; we shall have the satisfaction of knowing, however,
that the diseased action is not connected with glanders.

After a time — it may not be until after a considerable time — when
such parts of the tissue as are dis^josed to do so have sloughed away, the
discharge may cease; but in other cases the irritated membrane may con-
tinue to pour out mucus or pus, and trephining, as a last resort, offers
the only hope of a possible cure.

After being ©pened, the sinus will need to be freely injected for some
days Avith warm water in order to clear out the collected matter; after
which, in some cases, it may be necessary to inject some mild stimulant,
such as

Sulphate of zinc 3 i.

Water 1 pint.

The action of the stimulant will at first excite increased discharge,
but it will probably become of a more healthy character. If the discharge

DISEASES OF THE KESPIKATOEY ORGANS. 57

continues to increase, the stimulant may be discontinued for a few days,
and warm water again used.

In many cases, the lining membrane of the sinus will be found to be
greatly thickened, and perhaps a quantity of dried mucus may be lodged
within it, which will be gradually got rid of by the action of the injec-
tion. Care must be taken not to allow the skin to close completely the
orifice, before the discharge has for some days entirely ceased.

During treatment the animal should be fed well. If the head is hot.,
it should be frequently bathed with cold water. Mineral tonics should
be freely administered throughout.

When in spite of our treatment the diseased action of the mucous
membrane continues, it becomes a question whether it is advisable to
keep the animal. A horse with an unhealthy discharge from his nostrils
cannot with safety be kept near others or worked with them. "We cannot
tell when such a case may run into glanders. The animal is therefore
practically useless, and had better be killed.

CHRONIC COUGH.

Definition. — Chronic cough is a very troublesome affection. It may
have its seat either in about the larynx, in the respiratory passages, or in
the lungs.

Etiology. — It usually arises from morbid sensibility of the nerves of
the larynx, or from irritability left in its lining membrane or in the bron-
chial tubes after pneumonia, bronchitis, or influenza. Or it may be con-
nected with indigestion, and, indeed, it may be said frequently to be a
symptom of that affection. An intimate connection, as the reader is
aware, exists between the nervous system of the stomach and that of the
lungs. Hence, derangement of the former is ajit to set up irritation in
the latter. Thus horses suffering from worms are often affected with
chronic cough. It also constantly accompanies broken wind; and in
some cases it exists without any appreciable cause. In horses subject to
this disease, very trifling causes, such as the change from the atmosphere
of the stable to the open air, or the mere act of eating or of drink-
ing, or a change of weather, or a little unwonted excitement, such as a
trot or a sudden blow, are often sufficient to produce iri'itation and con-
sequently cough.

58 VETERINAET MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Chronic cough, when following bronchitis or influenza, is usually ac-
companied by an extra secretion of mucus; but we sometimes find it
when the membrane is perfectly dry.

Treatment. — The treatment of the malady must depend on the
cause from which it proceeds.

When the cough proceeds from irritability of the larynx, considerable
benefit, even in cases of some standing, will be found to result from the
application of external irritation to the throat. Chawner advises:

Croton oil .15 to 20 drops.

Glycerin | i.

Rub on throat and windpipe once every two days.

With a view of allaying the irritation which generally accompanies the
passage of food down the throat, it useful to cut the hay and wet it; and
five or six pounds of carrots may be given with the other food daily. The
tendency to irritation is diminished by giving food and water often and
in small quantities at a time.

If the cough appears to depend on disturbance of the lungs, as a
sympathetic affection, the real cause, which is usually indigestion, must
be treated. Careful attention should be paid to the diet, and an abun-
dance of pure air must be afforded. The best and most nutritious food
only should be given. Any distention of the belly, such as that caused
by the use of bulky forage, always affects unfavorably the free movement
of the lungs, whilst bad food will be certain to aggravate the indigestion.
With a special view of avoiding any undue distention of the stomach,
both food and water should be given in small quantities, and at frequent
intervals.

In very many cases, whether the cough arises from irritability of the
membrane of the larynx, or from the lungs, in sympathy with the diges-
tive organs, much benefit will be derived from the administration of tar,
either in water or in balls. For the purpose of impregnating the water,
it will be sufficient to pour a quart of the best tar into a large cask, from
which the water may, when required, be drawn; or the following ball
may be given daily, viz. :

Tar ? i.

Linseed meal Sufficient.

Make six balls

DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 59

If the cough has followed bronchitis, pneumonia, or influenza, and is
accompanied with an extra secretion of mucus, with occasional discharge
from the nose after coughing, or with a wheezing noise, mineral tonics,
such as:

Sulphate of copper 3 i.

Extract of gentian 3 ij.

Linseed meal Sufl&cient.

given in a ball daily for a week will be beneficial. The effect produced
must, however, be carefully watched. If the cough notwithstanding
continues, a change of treatment may be desirable, and the box may be
fumigated with tar. This may easily be effected by putting some tar in
an iron ladle or an old pail, and plunging a bar of hot iron into it.

Chronic cough may be intermittent in its character; that is, it may
be absent for a time, and then return as a dry, hacking half-suppressed
cough, repeated several times in succession, although the horse may not
otherwise be out of health. In such cases the following will be found
useful:

Powd. camphor 3 iij.

Nitrate of potassium 3 viij.

, Calomel 3 iij.

Aloes 3 vi.

Tar or turpentine Sufficient to moisten.

Make six balls.

Or,

Ammoniacum Z^a^

Powdered squills 3 vi.

Aloes 3 vi.

Linseed meal 3 xxiv.

Molasses q. s.

Make six balls.

One every evening for a few nights, after which it may be discontinued
and repeated after an interval.

Horses affected with chronic cough, if kept in good condition, often
continue for years good travellers; whilst, on the other hand, if the con-

60 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

dition falls off, the malady always increases, and is apt to degenerate into
broken wind.

When, however, this afEection accompanies, or rather is the result of
serious derangement of the pulmonary system, such as broken wind, it is
obviously incurable, because the cause from which it proceeds is incur-
able.

SOEE THROAT.

Synonyms. — Laryngitis; Pharyngitis; Angina,

Definition. — Inflammation of the lining membrane of the pnarynx
and larynx, not often fatal, but nevertheless a not unimportant disease,
some-times killing quickly by suffocation, in spite of all efforts to afford
relief.

Etiology. — Pharyngitis and Laryngitis are due to the same causes
as common cold.

Symptoms. — The earliest symptoms are cough and difficulty of
swallowing. There is generally a discharge from the nose, even in the
earliest stages. The mouth is hot, and the horse is disinclined to eat; or
perhaps *' quids" his hay, i.e., lets the masticated hay fall out of his
mouth. He only sips his water, or takes it by small mouthf uls and swal-
lows it by jerks. The horse also chews his food longer than common, in
order to produce an amount of saliva which may shield the irritated
membrane during its passage to the stomach. Hence we find much
slobbering from the mouth, and frequently, in bad cases, when the ani-
mal drinks, a portion of the fluid comes back through the nostrils, and
occasionally part of the food is returned in the same way. A short
cough frequently accompanies each inspiration.

The pulse is quick and the respiration somewhat hurried. If the
disease be not checked, the cough will become very hard and harassing,
and we may expect fever to follow. Attention should not be diverted,
however, to the fever from the real disease. The fever will subside as
soon as the irritation which causes it is removed.

There is sometimes a slight enlargement, which may be seen exter-
nally, over the upper end of the windpipe. Any attempt to handle the
throat is violently resisted. In severe cases the breathing is often ac-

DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS.

companied by a roaring noise. This roaring sometimes becomes clironic
after recovery from the disease.

Treatment. — In the earliest stage the treatment consists in removing
the animal to a loose box, with an abundant supply of fresh air, but no
draughts. The diet must be restricted to soft food. Use the steaming
bag, as recommended for coryza, and keep it constantly applied, renew-
ing the hot water as often as required, unless it appears to distress the
horse; in which case remove it for a time and then readjust. One or two
ounces of chloroform added to the water first poured in, will be likely to
contribute to the relief of the animal. Apply hot fomentations to the
throat, and tie it up with warm dry flannel. (Fig. 63.)

1 -^ ^ ^VlP

Fig. 63.
Neck tied up in flannel.

Grass is by far the best food, but when it cannot be procured, carrots,
or bran mash, or linseed gruel may be substituted. Hay is wholly inad-
missible, as it cannot be properly masticated, and its long, dry fibres
will be certain to cause irritation in the throat.

So long as swallowing is difficult, all medicine should be given in the
animal's food or water, the latter being kept always within reach. De-
mulcent drinks, such as linseed tea, hay tea, or gruel are useful and often
acceptable.

The warmth of the body must be maintained by clothing, and the legs
should be wrapped in flannel bandages. At intervals, according to the
circumstances of the case, the bandages should be removed, and hand-
rubbing applied until warmth is restored.

In the early stage of the affection, Gamgee recommends the use of a
confection of :

VETEBINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGEEY.

Mix.

Chloride of Ammonium § ij.

Camphor 3J.

Molasses 3 xx.

A tablespoonful occasionally to horses with a cough..

^n very bad cases, tlie swelling of the parotid glands and that of the
lining membrane of the upper end of the windpipe are sometimes so
great as to cause imminent danger of suffocation. Eelief must then be
sought by tracheotomy. If abscesses form and point internally, they
may require to be laid open with the lancet.

The accompanying fever is best treated by one or two ounces of sweet
spirits of nitre in the water or in the mash. The bowels must be kept
open by the use of laxative food, or, if need be, by injections of warm
water (100° F.), using the instrument here figured in preference to a Sy-

ria. 64.
Gamgee's funnel for enemas.

ringe. (Fig. 64.) In all cases, throughout the attack, the animal's head
should be left entirely free from restraint.

This disease is always succeeded by great prostration of strength; and
in order to prevent this as much as possible, milk — in conjunction with
eggs beaten up, or boiled hard and powdered — should be allowed the
animal to drink, alternately with water, gruel, or linseed tea. But none
of these should upon any consideration be forced upon it by horning or

DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 63

bottling, as this is a dangerous practice, and one calculated not only to
excite violent fits of coughing in all diseases of the throat, but indiges-
tion, and disorder of the digestive apparatus in all other ailments, and
thus destroy what little appetite the patient might possess.

8igns of Recovery. — The first sign of recovery is a slight mucous dis-
charge from the nostrils, indicating that the inflammatory action is sub-
siding. There will also be some slobbering of saliva at the mouth, and the
cough will become softer. The mucus discharged from the inflamed sur-
faces will be coughed up and gotten rid of, partly by the nose and partly by
the mouth, and the cough will gradually cease. The swelling of the
parotid glands and of the glands under the jaws will also gradually sub-
side. The fever will cease with the cessation of the irritation which pro-
duced it.

During this stage, the following may be given with advantage — a
dessertspoonful twice daily: —

Tannic acid 3 i.

Brandy 3 ij.

Honey § vi.

Mix.
Or, if preferred, a tablespoonful every three or four hours of :

Camphor. 3 i.

Powdered alum 3 ij.

Molasses § xx.

Mix.

Sequelae. — The after-treatment usually needs much care and atten-
tion. Some deposit on or thickening of the membrane generally remains
after the attack has subsided, which maj^ cause the horse to become a
roarer; and in order to assist nature to remove it, and thereby lessen the
chance of any such chronic affection, a mild stimulating embrocation
rubbed daily upon the throat will sometimes prove efficacious. The fol-
lowing is recommended, viz. : —

Oil of turpentine,
Liquor ammonia,
Olive oil aa.?iv.

64 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SUEGEKY.

but it is often necessary to apply a strong blister of biniodide of mercury
three or four times in succession on the seat of the disease.

Biniodide of mercury 1 fart.

Lard 8 parts.

Mix intimately.

For a fortnight or three weeks give the horse twice a day of

Iodide of potassium 3 i.

The animal should remain in a loose box until all irritation has com-
j)letely passed away.

When the horse is thoroughly convalescent, it should not be too hur-
riedly put to work, because the membrane of the windpipe and throat
will continue to be for some time very susceptible of irritation and in-
flammation. Great attention should also be given to the ventilation of
the stable.

When the discharge from the nostrils continues for a length of time,
even after the horse has in other respects recovered, the case must be
treated as one of nasal gleet.

BRONCHITIS.

Synonyms. — Cold in the chest; Inflammation of the air passages.

Definition. — Bronchitis consists in inflammation of the lining mem-
brane of the bronchial tubes. It may be acute or chronic.

Etiology. — Bronchitis is generally caused by exposure to cold, and is
commonly the result of neglect of some kind — allowing cold air to blow
on the animal; letting him stand unblanketed in cold weather after hard
driving, or when wet.

Symptoms. — Bronchitis usually commences with slight catarrh and
cough, and the horse is off his feed and a little feverish. At other times
there are no catarrhal symptoms, and the only noticeable sign is f everish-
ness and quickened breathing. This state of the breathing, if not care-
fully looked for, may easily escape observation.

The first positive sign of bronchitis is indicated by quickened breath-

DISEASES OF THE RESPIKATOKY ORGANS. 65

ing, accompanied with a slight whistling or hissing sound, heard on
auscultation, at the sides of the chest, or else by a deejaer and more noisy
sound in front of the chest. The whistling sound indicates inflamma-
tion of the smaller tubes; whilst the deeper sound indicates inflam-
mation of the larger tubes. The peculiarity of these sounds arises
from the passage of the air over the dry, inflamed membrane in the tubes.
During this, or the " dry stage," the pulse is harder and quicker than
natural, from 70 to 80 per minute, and as the disease progresses it be-
comes quicker and smaller, until in very bad cases it can be no longer
felt. The breathing is also much quickened, and the membrane of the
nostril is red and inflamed.

About the second day the dry state of the bronchial membrane is suc-
ceeded by a moist stage, with an increased secretion of mucus, accom-
panied with a suppressed cough. This change, though it has no partic-
ular significance, is yet often indicative of relief, inasmuch as it shows
that one stage of the inflammation has passed. The pulse, which during
the dry stage had been harder and quicker than natural, now becomes
decreased in volume and increased in frequency. Should the lining mem-
brane of the nose, which had been red and inflamed, become moist, and
at the same time the secretion from it of a more natural character, it is
a very favorable symptom.

If the mucus which is now secreted is not freely expectorated, it will
accumulate either in the larger or smaller tubes, according to the loca-
tion of the attack. In the larger tubes it affords considerable impedi-
ment to the respiration. The sound of the air j^assing through them is
known as the "great" mucous rale. If the smaller tubes are attacked,
the sound is more subdued and wheezing-like, and is known as the
''small " mucous rale. The distinction between these two sounds should
be very carefully studied.

Increase of the attack is marked by hurried breathing, dilatation of
the nostrils, heaving of the flanks, much fever, a highly inflamed state of
the lining membrane of the nose, and rapid prostration of the strength..
A peculiarity of the breathing may also be noticed, namely, that the act
of inspiration is performed with difficulty, whilst that of expiration is
effected with comparative ease. The breathing may also be quicker than
the pulse.

In pure oronchitis the throat is not affected. The disease is in the
bronchial tubes, either great or small, but not in the larynx or trachea.
5

66 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SIJRGERT.

If, however, bronchitis supervenes on a previous attack of catarrh or
sore throat, the larynx and trachea will necessarily be involved.

Williams says, " In no case of pure bronchitis is the breathing pain-
ful, but short and quick, the thoracic as well as the abdominal muscles
being brought into play; this distinguishes it from the breathing charac-
teristic of pleurisy, in which the ribs are more or less fixed, and the res-
piration abdominal. In ordinary cases of bronchitis, the animal is dull,
listless, sometimes semi-comatose; hangs its head; is generally thirsty;
ropy saliva fills its mouth, which is hot and moist. The visible mucous
membranes are affected, and present a varying degree of lividity, due to
non-oxidation of the blood. The animal stands in a coma, or moves list-
lessly about. If in a box, and the door be open, it stands with its head
to the open air, from which it evidently obtains relief. The bowels are
generally somewhat constipated, the faeces covered with mucus; but they
easily respond to purgatives." The urine is high-colored. As the disease
advances, if it be toward a favorable termination, the discharge from the
nostrils will become more profuse, the cough more loose, and gradually
the discharge changes to a more clear and thinner mucus.

Treatment. — As it is not possible to cut the disease short after its very
earliest stages, the treatment should be directed to leading it to an early
and favorable termination. Nearly all authorities agree that blood-letting
should be avoided; cough mixtures or expectorants are of no value; and
if the bowels are costive, on no account give aloetic purgatives, but
endeavor to secure proper movements by feeding, as directed hereafter.
Grive plenty of water to drink. At the very earliest symptom the patient
should be removed to a well-ventilated loose box, warmly clothed, band-
ages applied to his legs, and his food wholly restricted to grass, carrots,
or bran mash.

Some sedative medicines will be needed, such as from five to ten drops
of Fleming's tincture of aconite, every four hours (drop it into a
teaspoon and rub it on the tongue); but this medicine must not be
continued after the pulse has become soft, which in favorable cases
is usually in about twenty-four hours. It may be given in another
way. Add ten drops of Fleming's tincture to a tea-cup of water, and of
this give a teaspoonful every fifteen minutes until the animal sweats
freely. If aconite does not produce the desired effect in that time, its
use should be discontinued. Its action on the system is too lowering to
admit of prolonged use.

DISEASES OF THE KESPIRATOKY ORGANS, 67

After a time the pulse usually becomes weak and the patient Is pros-
trated. Diffusible stimulants, such as carbonate of ammonia in doses of
one drachm (well diluted with water), or sweet spirits of nitre or sulphu-
ric ether (well diluted), in doses of one-half to one ounce, repeated every
four or six hours, are now needed, and may be continued until signs of relief
are apparent. If the horse is inclined to drink^ half an ounce of nitrate
of potassium may be dissolved in each pailful of water, until the kidneys
are freely acted on. If the animal urinates profusely, it need not cause
alarm, it being due to the effort of nature to throw off effete substances,
and will pass off as the horse becomes convalescent.

Inhalation of the steam arising from boiling water poured over hay in
the steam bag, as described on page 22, will also be found to give much
relief, and should be made a main point of treatment. The steam re-
lieves the irritated membrane and tends to loosen the mucus, and there-
by relieves the cough. A small quantity of carbolic acid poured on the
hay in the steam bag will serve to prevent the putrefaction of the dis-
charge.

When, as is often the case, notwithstanding hand-rubbing and ban-
dages, the legs remain persistently cold, rub them with a liniment of

Soap liniment 5 pint

Strong liquid ammonia § i.

and then replace the bandages.

In addition to the above treatment, the front part or the sides of the
chest should be stimulated with mustard. As soon as the irritant effect
of the mustard has ceased, which will be in about fifteen minutes, it
should be washed off. In about two hours the application may be re-
peated, and again Avashed off as before; and this process may be repeated
at intervals until signs of relief are apparent.

If signs of recovery do not become apparent, the disease will probably
extend to the lung tissue or to its covering membrane, and we shall
probably have the case complicated with pneumonia or pleurisy. A
horse may die of pure bronchitis, but in fatal cases the disease generally
runs into pneumonia or pleurisy before death.

68 VETERUSrAKY MEDICINE AND SURGEKY.

PNEUMONIA.

Synonyms. — Inflammation of the lungs; Lung fever.

Definition. — Pneumonia is inflammation of all the substance of the
lungs.

Etiology. — Chill while hot and perspiring; sudden changes of tem-
perature; badly ventilated stables. Pneumonia frequently supervenes on
bronchitis.

Symptoms. — Sometimes the attack comes on very suddenly without
any observable premonitory symptoms. At other times it starts almost
imperceptibly, the animal being only slightly off his feed and his mouth
hot. The attack is generally ushered in by sudden fits of shivering, fol-
lowed by coldness of the ears and extremities and other usual signs of
inflammation, and a staring coat. The coldness of the extremities is a
marked sign throughout the disease. The horse is evidently uneasy, and
turns his head frequently round to his chest. The joulse is accelerated
and generally averages about eighty beats in the minute, at the com-
mencement. The temperature in the early stage will be 103 to 10G° P.

The nasal linings are paler than usual, but as the disease progresses,
they become purplish, and then of a leaden hue. The respiration be-
comes disturbed as soon as the disease is established.

A very prominent symptom which marks this disease consists in the
horse persistently standing with his fore-legs wide apart and his elbows
out. He retains this position because it affords greater expansion to tlit
chest, and therefore greater ease, than any other position. Horses af-
fected with this disease or with pleuro-pneumonia are said never to lie
down, except it be for a moment at a time or in extremis, when death
from suffocation in general rapidly supervenes.

Cough may or may not be present. If present, it is sharp in the first
instance, but as the attack progresses, it becomes of a dry and dull char-
acter.

According to Williams, there is some degree of constipation, but the
faeces are mixed with flakes of mucus; the bowels are irritated, and do
not tolerate purgatives.

With increase of the disease the breathing becomes quicker and more
labored, although in pneumonia uncomplicated with pleurisy there is

DISEASES OF THE KESPIKATORY ORGANS. 69

an absence of any painful symptoms in the act. As the attack progresses,
however, the breathing becomes much accelerated as it approaches the
crisis. The fever is said to last from five to ten days. '

If, during the early stage of the attack, the ear be applied to the
chest, a confused humming noise, accompanied with a harsh, dry mur-
mur, instead of the gentle respiratory sound peculiar to health, will be
heard. The duration of the dry stage is very uncertain.

Pneumonia may attack one lung, or one portion of one lung, or both
lungs. The extent and position of the attack may be ascertained by
auscultation.

Convalescence is indicated by the return of the pulse to something
like its normal condition, by restoration and continuance of warmth in
the extremities, by a moist state of the nostrils, or the appearance of
healthy mucus, and by the general relief of the symjjtoms of inflamma-
tion, and by a disposition to lie down.

If, on the other hand, the disease continues to progress, the mouth
and nose will become cold, the nostril of a leaden hue, and the pulse
fluttering and indistinct. The attack may terminate in effusion of se-
rum, otherwise known as water on the chest, exudation of lymph upon
the pleural surfaces, or in tubercles, abscesses, gangrene, etc.

A very unfavorable symptom is afforded by the discharge from the
nose becoming of a brownish color. It indicates a high degree of con-
gestion in the blood-vessels of the lungs. The change of color proceeds
from oozing of the coloring matter of the blood through the over-dis-
tended coats of the vessels.

Occasionally the animal dies (from congestion of the lungs) about the
fourth or fifth day, or even as early as the second day, before any of the
latter described stages are reached.

Horses sometimes die of congestion of the lungs from hard riding or
from plethoric state of the system.

Treatment. — Is given on page 70.

PLEURO-PNEUMONIA.

Definition. — Pleuro-pneumonia is inflammation of the lung and
pleura at the same time. The disease may attack one lung or one por-

70 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

tion of one lung, but it more often attacks both lungs at once The
pleura are generally involved to the same extent as the lungs.

Etiology. — The causes of pleuro-pneumonia are the same as those of
l^neumonia. Besides, it may prevail epidemically.

Symptoms. — The symptoms in the early stage are those of pneumonia,
with the addition of the friction sound heard best over elevated ridges at
the junction of the cartilages and the ribs. The pulse is more affected
than in pneumonia, and less so than in simple pleurisy, and usually
averages about 70.

In the second, or moist, and in the later stages, the symptoms are
also similar to those which are detailed under the head of pneumonia
and pleurisy, and are in fact, as we might expect, a combination of both.

A peculiar low form of pleuro-pneumonia often prevails as an epi-
zootic in large towns, the early symptoms of which are very obscure.
The animal merely shows dulness and loss of appetite and increased fre-
quency of pulse. The respiratory movements are at first so little af-
fected that unless the practitioner is on his guard and tests the state of
the lungs by auscultation, the disease may make some progress before its
real nature is suspected.

Treatment of pneumonia and pleuro-2meumo)ua. — When any of the
premonitory symptoms, such as slight catarrh, fever, dulness, or loss of
appetite appear, we must at once have recourse to an abundant supply of
cool fresh air, abstinence from grain, laxative diet, entire rest, extra
clothing, and warm bandages to the legs. In all cases, it is desirable that
the animal should at once be removed to an airy, loose box. Diffusible
stimulants are also beneficial.

If these simple remedies do not altogether avert, or at least bring-
about subsidence of the attack within a very short time, we must have
recourse to medical treatment.

Bleeding, once the favorite treatment in this affection, is no longer
countenanced by leading men. The horse should be placed at once in a
comfortable loose box. Place pure water, not very cold, within reach at
all times. Food will not be touched, unless it be a little well-made
gruel, and not at all during the height of the disease. Keep the body
warm by not too many blankets; and in rapid and painful breathing
bathe the sides with warm water, as recommended in pleurisy. To pre-
vent taking cold, rub tlie parts with

DISEASES OF THE RESPIBATOKY ORGANS. 71

Soap liniment ^ pint

Strong liquid ammonia 3 i.

During the first, or dry stage, sedatives, such as

Fleming's tincture of aconite tt^x.

Water 1 pint

may be given once or twice, at intervals of four to six hours if the fever
be high, but not otherwise, until relief — indicated by the pulse becom-
ing softer in character and lower in number — is obtained. Aconite
should not be used by any one not suflSciently experienced to distinguish
the pulse. accurately. It may also be given according to the method men-
tioned in the treatment of bronchitis; namely, by adding from six to ten
drops of Fleming's tincture to a teacupful of water, and giving a tea-
spoonful every fifteen minutes until perspiration occurs.

Neutral salts dissolved in water have a marked effect in relieving the
breathing. For this purpose, two ounces of sulphate of magnesia,
or, one ounce of nitrate of potassium may be dissolved in a pailful of
water, and the patient may be allowed to drink as much as he pleases.
If he finishes the pailful, another may be given him. If the bowels are
constipated, as is often the case, linseed oil in doses of from ten ounces
to a pint is preferable to more active purgatives.

If the legs, notwithstanding friction and bandages, remain persistently
cold, a mustard plaster may be applied to them, and washed off after
fifteen minutes and the bandages reapplied; or they may be rubbed Avitli
a turpentine liniment, as

Oil of turpentine,
Liquid ammonia,
Olive oil aa 3 iv.

Should moderate diarrhoea or excessive urination come on, do not
check them. If the animal will eat, feed moderately Avith bran mashes,
cut hay wet with water, boiled carrots, etc. No grain food.

Diffusible stimulants, which were recommended above during the
premonitory symptoms, are not suitable during the dry stage, or at least
during such portion of it as aconite is administered with the view of
lowering the pulse. But when the strength begins to fail, as is often the

72 VETEKINARY MEDICINE AND SUKGEEY.

case after the dry stage has contmued for some time, and during the
second or moist stage, such diffusible stimulants as

Carbonate of sodium,

Camphor,

Extract of belladonna aa. 3 i.

or half an ounce of sweet spirits of nitre in a little water, repeated
every four or six hours, are very beneficial, and may be given from time
to time as may be required.

The inexperienced horse owner should very carefully consider the
symptoms, and if not quite sure what is the right course to pursue with
regard to the internal administration of medicine, had better confine him-
self to following the directions as to the loose box, water bathing, warm
clothing, laxative food, and nitre (Capt. Hayes).

As the disease progresses, it is of the utmost importance to sustain
the strength of the patient as far as possible, by giving him soft, nutri-
tious food, by most attentive nursing, and by warmth applied to the body
by means of clothing, etc.

It is necessary to call the particular attention of the reader to the
distinction in regard to diet, which exists between the premonitory and
the later stages of the attack. In the former the patient must be deprived
of all grain, and fed on laxative diet. Such timely measures, combined
with the loose box, will possibly ward off the impending attack, or at
least prevent its becoming serious.

As a general rule, these diseases terminate quickly and favorably, and
without any after injurious affects, when thus treated. When the system
is unduly lowered, or the fever is aggravated by the use of violent blisters,
we have reason to fear an unfavorable termination.

CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS.

Synonym. — Pulmonary apoplexy.

Deflnition. — This disorder is distinct from inflammation of the

lungs and consists in an engorgement of the pulmonary blood-vessels.

Etiology. — Generally it is brought on by unaccustomed and sustained
exertion, and more commonly occurs in hot weather and in fat horses.

DISEASES OF THE KESPIRATOKY ORGANS. 73

I have known a very fine animal driven all winter in the city, and on a
hot day, in June, driven some forty miles into the country, die from this
disease in an hour after stopping. It is said to occur also from actual
want of air in badly ventilated stables.

Symptoms. — Great distress; the fore-legs stretched widely apart; the
nostrils expand and contract spasmodically; the flanks heave; there is a
tremor all over the body which is bathed in a cold sweat; the extremities
are cold.

Treatment. — Should be prompt to be of much service; if neglected
for an hour even, it may be too late, and the animal will die of apnoea.
If there is any wind, turn the horse's head so that it will blow upon his
nostrils; bathe the legs and feet in hot water, rub them smartly, and fin-
ish by bathing with:

Liquor ammonia 3 ij.

Tincture of arnica,

Water aa 1 pint.

then bandage with thick flannel up to the body. Give immediately:

Sulphuric ether,

Laudanum aa 3 ij.

Water 1 pint.

May be repeated at intervals of fifteen minutes if it seems necessary.
Two or three doses will usually sufl&ce.

Or, if preferred, tincture of arnica is recommended in two-ounce
doses.

See that the stable.has plenty of fresh air, but no draughts. Watch
constantly for twenty-four hours or until the attack has subsided; feed
for several days upon mashes or gruel only. Water freely. Give one
ounce nitrate of potassium in the mash. Keep the animal warm.

Some authorities recommend bleeding in severe cases, taking four to
six quarts of blood; but the blood flows with difficulty and is thick and
dark. It is questionable if it does much good; nevertheless, in these
urgent cases bleeding may be resorted to.

74 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

PLEURISY.

Synonyms. — Pleuritis; Inflammation of the pleura.

Definition. — Pleurisy or pleuritis is an inflammation of the pleura,

or delicate serous membrane which forms the covering of the lungs and
also lines the cavity of the chest. In the epizootic form of pleurisy, it is
preceded and accompanied by a low typhoid fever, lasting from seven to
fourteen days. It is said to occur generally but once in a season, and one
attack does not exempt from succeeding ones.

Etiology. — The disease is generally brought on by the same causes as
those which produce other diseases of the respiratory system, and prevails
mostly in the spring of the year, when the days are often cold and chilly;
clipping is sometimes considered to be the cause; sometimes it is occa-
sioned by some abnormal violence to the chest, or by its being punctured.
In these latter cases the disease will be confined to one side only. Epi-
zootic pleurisy is more or less contagious, and severe cases are capable of
infecting other horses in the same stable.

Symptoms. — The disease at the outset is characterized by some degree
of chilliness, manifested by a staring coat, and coldness of the surface of
the body. This is, however, succeeded by signs of pain, often mistaken
for colic, during which the horse paws almost constantly, and j^erhaps
lies down and rolls; the animal eventually becomes stiff and sore, and if
suddenly approached or if rapped upon the affected side will groan.
The acts of respiration are performed rapidly and incompletely, the ribs
are fixed, and the respiration is mostly abdominal. If listening to the
chest is practised, a rubbing sound can be heard, and sometimes a very
plain squeaking noise, like the creaking of leather, will be quite distinct.
A dry, short, painful cough supervenes; the pulse is hard and quick, 60
to 80 per minute. If the side be closely examined, the muscles covering
the affected part will be noticed to tremble or quiver; this lasts but a
short time, and is succeeded by diminished motion.

When the muscles of the chest are involved to a considerable extent,
the animal moves in a very rigid manner, steps slowly and very short; is
greatly dejected, the back is arched, the skin exhibits great tenderness
when subjected to pressure. Some cases have been noted that were so
stiff and sore as to fall when compelled to move.

In a period of time varying from two days to a week, in favorable

DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 75

cases, the dryness of the pleura is relieved by an effusion of serum from
the overloaded vessels. The occurrence of the moist stage has not in
itself either a favorable or an unfavorable significance. It is merely the
course through which every inflammatory attack passes which does not
at once end in resolution. At this, the second or moist stage, the friction
sound, noted above as characteristic of the disease in its first stage, dis-
appears, and the cough becomes loose and moist, and the extremities for
a time become warm. The pulse becomes less frequent, smaller and
weaker, the breathing less labored, and the membrane of the nostril loses
its redness.

In from about twenty- four to forty-eight hours after the occurrence
of the moist stage, we may look for a decided change either for better or
for worse.

Subsidence of the attack will be indicated by the breathing becoming
less hurried, by the pulse becoming softer and more distinct, and the cough
less frequent, and by the extremities con inuing warm. As in most acute
diseases, recovery, when a favorable change once takes place, is tolerably
rapid.

On the other hand, persistence of the attack is indicated by the ex-
tremities, which had, on the occurrence of the moist stage, become warm,
again becoming and continuing cold; by a deep, scarlet color of the mem-
brane of the nose; by a discharge of straw-colored serum from the nos-
trils; by a thready, wiry pulse, and by a rapid increase in the effusion of
serum, otherwise called water on the chest, or hydrothorax; or in exuda-
tion of lymph, causing in some cases extensive adhesion of the pleura of
the lungs to the pleura of the ribs, or very frequently in both.

As in pneumonia, it is necessary to caution the inexperienced against
mistaking the earlier symptoms of either of these results for those of sub-
sidence of the attack.

Treatment. — Stop all work at once; place the horse in a warm, light,
well-ventilated loose box, taking care that cold air does not blow upon
him; clothe the animal and bandage its legs sufficiently to keep it warm,
but not too hot. Do not attempb to cut short the fever; both it and tlie
attack must run their course, and the effort must be to alleviate them
and assist nature to a favorable issue. If the fever be slight, the disease
itself will run its course lightly, but if the fever be severe, the local in-
flammation will be likely to prove proportionately grave.

76 VETEBINAKY MEDICINE AND SUBGEEY.

In the early stages of the attack, while the fever is high, benefit may
be derived from the administration of

Fleming's tincture of aconite th,x.

repeated two or three times a day if necessary. Some practitioners
object to the use of aconite on account of its sedative action on the heart.
Or aconite may be used as recommended in bronchitis and pneumonia.

At the onset of the attack, when the pain is the greatest, indicated by
the groaning or grunting of the horse and attempts to lie down, looking
around at its sides, etc., a dose composed of a mild purgative combined
with an opiate will give relief, and sometimes abort the disease. Give

Laudanum 3 iv.

Linseed oil 3 xij.

One dose.

This may be repeated if the pain continues, but with the advent of the
moist stage the pain will disappear.

If the pain is excessive, a hypodermic injection of

Magendie's solution of morphine 3 xl.

will be useful.

Foment the sides with warm water, not hot, continuing the applica-
tion for an hour at a time and then blanket; repeat this operation in
severe cases three or four times a day. Williams' method of fomentation
is as follows, viz. : Wrap the horse's body in a thick blanket or horse
sheet, and pour warm water upon it, placing a tub so as to catch the
water as it falls from the sheet, or wring cloths out of warm water and
Apply them to the sides. The latter method is the cleaner, as there is
less water lost on the bedding, etc. ; but in the former the skiji is not ex-
posed during the fomentation, and is to be preferred. When the fomen-
tation is concluded, the wet sheets are to be covered with a water-proof
covering, or, if removed, the skin lightly rubbed with weak ammonia
liniment:

Liquid ammonia § i.

Olive oil xxvi.

DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATOKY ORGANS. 77

for the purpose of preventing the sensation of cold which is apt to follow
warm applications.

If the changes in the temperature of the skin be marked, give three
times a day:

Sweet spirits of nitre , § i.

Water Half a pailful

and to stimulate the action of the kidneys

Nitrate of potassium 3 iv.

given in the drinking water night and morning.

Avoid purgatives, counter-irritants, and bleeding. Give a free supply
of water; and to eat> bran mashes boiled, linseed mash, carrots, or grass
if it is to be had. During convalescence give milk to drink, and if the
animal is very weak, beat up an egg or two in the milk. A good tonic
at this time will be of service :

Tincture of chloride of iron , 3 i.

Water i Pint

Two or three times daily

Or,

Sulphate of Iron,
Powdered alum,

Powdered gentian .aa 31]'.

Molasses q. s.

Make one ball.

Give one every eight hours for two days and afterwards one every
twelve hours.

HEAVES. . ^

Synonyms. — Broken wind; Asthma.

Definition. — Broken wind is said by Youatt to be " the rupture and
running together of some of the air cells." It is non-inflammatory and
usually becomes chronic and incurable.

78 YETERINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Etiology. — Horses with narrow chests and protuberant bellies, if also
gross feeders, are especially subject to this affection. Sometimes it grad-
ually steals on a horse, commencing with chronic cough, whilst at other
times it comes on suddenly, perhaps after hard work, with an overloaded
stomach; and sometimes it occurs without obvious cause. Improper
feeding; coarse, woody hay; not sufficient variety in food, or excessive
amounts of it. Indigestion from any cause. G-reedy feeders, and horses
with a depraved appetite, who are specially liable to suffer from indiges-
tion.

Symptoms. — The prominent sign of heaves is a double action of the
flanks, caused by the inspiration of air into the lungs being performed
with ease, while the expiration is made by two apparent efforts, at the
conclusion of which the muscles relax, and the flanks fall with peculiar
force.

During catarrhal affections the disease is often temporarily increased,
and also at sudden changes of the weather, especially during fogs and
easterly winds.

Treatment. — The peculiar symptom of flatulence, which is present
in every broken-winded horse, shows pretty clearly that in the great ma-
jority of cases the disease is due to a disordered state of the digestive
organs, rather than to previous disease of the lungs.

As regards treatment in incipient cases, especially in those which
result from derangement of the stomach, there is reason to hope that re-
moval of the causes and reversal of the conditions which have induced
the malady, may check its progress, although we must not hope altogether
to get rid of the disease. Therefore careful feeding and watering, and
regular exercise are essential.

But when heaves has become chronic, whether it has arisen from in-
flammatory attacks on the respiratory organs, or from indigestion, or
from emphysema — where, in short, any alteration has taken place in the
structure of the lungs — the disease is obviously incurable, and active
treatment is worse than useless. The best care, the greatest attention to
diet, grooming, ventilation, and exercise are needed. A broken-winded
horse sTiould never be left idle for a day. When working, do not allow
him to drink immoderately; a little oatmeal stirred in the water will
make it better for him. Give a pint of linseed oil occasionally, if neces-
sary to keep the bowels open.

Professor Law recommends:

DISEASES OF THE RESPLRATOBY OBGAKS. 79

Fowler's solution of arsenic 5 i.

Fluid extract belladonna 3 i.

Tincture of ginger 3 ss.

Mix with a pint of water and give daily for a month or two.
Tincture of nux vomica in doses of two to four drachms continued
for ten days or two weeks is preferred by some.

THICK WIND.

Deflnition. — Thick wind generally arises from thickening of the
mucous membrane of the finer bronchial tubes and air cells.

Etiology. — Acute or chronic inflammatory disease, either of the
bronchial tubes or the lungs. In the latter case, the bronchial tubes are
also usually involved. It may also be produced by injudicious and violent
exercise after watering, or when the stomach is full, or Avhen the animal
has been kept too long on soft food. It is also found in horses of a pam-
pered, plethoric habit. In these cases it is probably due to nervous irri-
tability of the lungs, sympathizing, as they readily do, with the condition
of the stomach.

On account of the thickening of the mucous membrane, the horse
labors much in his breathing, especially when the respiration is accele-
rated by work. The importance or otherwise of this disease mainly de-
pends on the degree of thickening which has taken place, and the extent
of lung affected. These points can in some measure be ascertained by
auscultation over the region of the chest, after the horse has been made
to exert himself. This disease is distinguished from broken wind by the
inspirations and expirations being performed with equal quickness.

Treatment. — Treatment can only be palliative. Active measures are
useless. Good condition, regular work, and very careful watering and
feeding will mitigate the evil. Give small quantities both of food and
water, at a time. Carrots are considered good; grass is better than hay.
A pint of linseed oil given now and then, to keep the bowels in order
and allay irritation of the mucous membrane, will be beneficial.

In France it is said to be the common custom to wet the food with
molasses and water.

80 VETERINABY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

ROARING.

Definition^. — Eoaring is a very peculiar noise made usually in the act
of inspiration, especially when the breathing is accelerated. In some
cases it may be made both in expiration and inspiration. The sound is
caused by obstruction in some part of the respiratory passages, and usu-
ally in the larynx.

Etiology. — Roaring is said to be due to paralysis and fatty degene-
ration of the muscles of the larynx; by some author? considered to be
chiefly hereditary. There is considerable doubt concerning the existence
of this cause. Among other causes are: Diseases of the nose; nasal
polypi; depression of the nasal bones from previous fracture; osseous
tumors in the nostrils; closing of one nasal chamber by false membrane
or disease of the bones; tumors on the posterior nares, called " bellones,"
falling into the glottidean opening, causing intermitting roaring; con-
stricting of the trachea; tumors in the thoracic cavity; distention of the
gutteral pouches; disease of the pharyngeal and parotidean lymphatic
and salivary glands; tight reining; fractures of the tracheal rings, or any
cause of distortion of the larynx.

Treatment. — The treatment to be adopted, and the chance of a suc-
cessful result in any particular case, must depend on the cause of the
disease, and its being taken in treatment early. A confirmed roarer
cannot be cured.

As, however, in broken wind and chronic cough, good food and regu-
lar work, with high condition, exercise a favorable influence, and may
for a length of time render a roarer useful for many purposes; but with
all our care the disease, when arising from the above causes, generally
increases until the animal becomes useless.

If the roaring proceeds from a tumor in the nose, it may be jDOssible
to remove it. If it be caused by an obstruction in the air tube, arising
from an injury or from the effect of an operation, it is possible that re-
lief may be obtained by the application of a blister of:

Biniodide of mercury . . 1 part

Lard 8 parts

Bands of organized lymph across the trachea, or a band of that material

DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 81

around its interior, are considered irremovable; though instances are re-
corded in which they are said to have been excised. In recent cases,
arising from distortion of the larynx produced by tight reining, the best
treatment consists in removal of the cause, and doing away with the
check-rein, followed, if necessary, by rubbing daily or alternate days
with:

Iodine 3 i.

Iodide of potassium 3 ij.

Lard 3 ij.

Mix with very gentle heat.

If the roaring arises from a thickened state of the lining membrane
of the bronchial tubes, such as may often be found after catarrh, laryn-
gitis, etc., relief may very probably be gained, in recent cases, by apply-
ing irritants, such as biniodide of mercury (just mentioned above),
repeated at intervals, to the exterior of the part affected; or a seton may
be inserted on both sides, just behind the jaw.

HIGHBLOWING.

Definition. — Highblowing is not a disease, but is simply produced
by the flapping of the horse's nostrils when expelling air quickly from his
lungs. The larger, thinner, and more delicate the horse's nostrils are, the
easier will it be for him to make this noise, which appears to be under
his controh It is rarely heard except at the canter or gallop. It is gener-
ally considered to be a sign of good wind. One can imitate the sound near
enough to understand how it is made, by bringing the lip slightly together
and then blowing moderately strong through them. If one blows very
hard, the vibratory noise is not made (Hays).

WHISTLING.

" This sound has been generally looked upon as a modification of

roaring. I am, however, of the opinion that whistling and roaring are

due to different pathological conditions of the larynx, and that they may
6

82 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

exist independently of each other; that roaring does not always termi-
nate in whistling, nor whistling in roaring." (Williams.)

■ The loeculiar sound, which is that of air passing through a narrow
channel, arises from abnormal contraction in some part of the air pas-
sages. The seat of the contraction may be in the larynx, or it may be
caused by thickening of the mucous membrane of the windpipe from
previous inflammation of that organ. The causes of whistling are very
similar to those of roaring.

Treatment. — The treatment is similar to that of roaring. In some
cases a whistler may be capable of more exertion than a roarer; but in
other cases an opposite result may be found.

GRUNTING.

G-runts are sometimes emitted by horses when struck or suddenly
moved.

Etiology. — Any horse may do it which has been fed for some time on
bulky food, and its belly thus distended. Horses also, which have been
long in dealers' hands, and have been frequently examined as to wind,
will sometimes grunt on being approached, on account of fear of a blow.

Such grunts may or may not have any connection with disease of the
larynx; but the horses which emit them should be examined as to their
wind with more than ordinary care. Grunting and roaring usually go
together, though they may occur separately.

OHAPTEE III.

DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS.

Lampas, Choking, Indigestion, Gorging, Grain Founder, Gastric Impaction,
Gorged Stomach, Impaction of the Stomach, Dyspepsia, Chronic Indigestion,
Gastritis, Inflammation of the Stomach, Rupture of the Stomach, Constipa-
tion, Spasmodic Colic, Gripes, Belly Ache, Flatulent Colic, Windy Colic,
Tympanites, Swollen Belly, Inflammation of the Intestines, Enteritis, Super-
purgation, Diarrhoea, Bots, Worms.

LAMPAS.

Deflnition. — Lampas is a trifling ailment peculiar to young horses.
It consists of an active inflammation and swelling of the ridges or fleshy
bars of the roof of the mouth.

Etiology. — It is commonly connected with the process of dentition,
and generally occurs about the season when the teeth are changing.
Horses at any age, however, are liable to be affected by it through over-
feeding. The soreness of the palate usually prevents the animal from
eating oats or corn for a few days, and the inflammation sometimes
causes slight feverish symptoms.

Treatment. — An immediate cure may be effected by scarifying the
swollen bars with a lancet, but a few days of feeding wet bran and soft
food wiH generally have the same effect, at the end of which time the
inflammation will subside, and the animal will again feed.

The practice of burning the swollen bars with a hot iron is a brutal
proceeding, and should never be tolerated.

84: VETEKLNAKY MEDICINE AJSID SURGERY.

INDIGESTION.

Synonyms. — G-astric impaction; Gorged stomach; Grain founder;
Impaction of the stomach.

Etiology. — May be the result of a variety of causes: improper
food; in most cases too great quantities of food; imperfect mastication;
natural weakness of the stomach. In colts, removal from the dam at too
early an age; drinking too cold milk, etc.

Symptoms. — Loss of appetite; a desire to eat dirt and filth; rough,
hide-bound skin; possibly a dry cough; colicky pains an hour or so after
food. In cases of gorging, the horse will, in a short time afterward,
begin to show signs of distress which will increase rapidly; the body may
be covered with a cold perspiration; the extremities are cold, pulse
rapid; eructations of gas; attempts to vomit, which, however, are
ineffectual further than the occasional flow of saliva from the mouth.
The animal will lie down on his belly, and roll about and alternately
stand up. He is disposed to stand with his head low down, and to press
his forehead against his manger or the wall.

Treatment. — In all cases of simple indigestion, it is best to change
the diet in some way, for a time at least. If a colt, give a dose
of castor oil:

Castor oil 3 viij.-xij.

An older horse may have:

Powdered aloes,

Powdered ginger aa 5 ss.

Make into a ball with molasses.

After the cathartic has operated, give:

Bicarbonate of sodium,

Powdered gentian aa 3 ss.

Powdered nux vomica gi'. xxx.

Make one ball with molasses, and give two daily.

If the hair is thick, clipping is sometimes magically effective. Mod

DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 85

erate exercise, thorough grooming, and food in moderate quantity unust
be an essential part of the treatment.

In cases of gorging, prompt efforts must be made to assist nature in
passing the contents of the overloaded stomach into and through the
intestines, and this can best be done by a strong purge:

Powdered aloes 3 iv.

Powdered gentian 3 i j.

Calomel 3 ss.

Make into one ball with molasses, and give at once.

If this does not act sufficiently, it may be repeated after forty-eight
hours.

For the relief of pain, should it exist, give:

Sweet spirits of nitre ^ ij.

Fleming's tinct. of aconite rq, v.

in a small mash, and repeat once or twice at intervals of two hours.

The subcutaneous injection of morphia may be substituted for this,
and would be more rapid in its effect; inject forty minims in front of
the sternum.

Apply hot fomentations to the belly, and do not allow the horse to
throw himself violently upon the ground, which may cause rupture of
the stomach.

Eobertson advises, in cases where the discharge from the bowels is
moderate, though not fluid, the daily administration for a time of :

Aloes 3 ss. to 3 i.

Assafoetida,
Gentian,

Ginger aa 3 i.

Molasses sufficient.

In a ball.

Some advise also the throwing of a large injection well up into tlio
rectum, -which may be done with a Eey's tube.

86 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH.

Synonym. — Gastritis.

Definition. — Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the stomach.

Etiology. — It is probably due to irritation of the mucous membrane
caused by swallowing some poisonous substance.

Symptoms. — True gastritis is rarely seen or recognized in the horse
except when it is suspected in consequence of some poison known to have
been eaten or swallowed, or medicine improperly administered. If due
to arsenious acid, the symptoms are great pain with uneasiness, the
animal alternately getting up and lying down, tympanitic abdomen,
faeces mixed with mucus, the saliva foetid, and its secretion increased;
mouth hot, extremities cold, nausea, purging, and great prostration
of strength, with delirium. When the irritation is caused by the
bichloride of mercury, there is, in addition to the above symptoms, a
profuse discharge of saliva from the mouth.

Treatment. — Give at once the usual antidotes for the poisons.

RUPTURE OF THE STOMACH.

Is not fortunately a common accident. Robinson says of its
Symptoms. — " When an animal suffering from gastric engorgement
and distention with much abdominal pain, being very uneasy, tossing
himself about with violence, suddenly becomes quiet for a short time with
a distinct change in the expression of his countenance, in which is now
marked great anxiety, with short, quick respiration, regurgitation of
fluid or more solid ingesta from the mouth and nose, with attempts at
vomition, pulse becoming quicker and more feeble, the probability is that
the walls of the stomach have become torn. In some instances there are
additional symptoms, such as sudden fits of perspiration, a blanched state
of the mucous membranes, cold and clammy mouth, tottering or stagger-
ing gait on being moved, or a disposition to move feebly around the box
with his nose to the ground.

When the lesion has taken place at once, and exists as the primary
affection, often occurring while at work, from which he has been removed

DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 87

on account of the exhibition of pain, there may not at first be great un-
easiness immediately accompanying the rupture; but very shortly this
becomes a prominent symptom, chiefly from the escape of the contained
material into the peritoneal cavity and consequent inflammation of the
membranes and organs there. Kapidly the pulse and respirations become
affected, and show the same characters as in other form — sinking Avith
anxious exjDression of the countenance, attempts at vomition, and, it may
be, sitting on the haunches. As the case advances, the pallid state of the
mucous membranes, and the cold, clammy condition of the mouth, be-
come more marked. During the progress of the symptoms the feeble and
frequent condition of the pulse is persistent; while towards the termina
tion the animal may show little pain, but stand persistently, until he
finally drops; at other times he is violent to the last, gradually becom-
ing unconscious."

No treatment will be of any avail, administration of medicines has
been observed to add to the distress of the animal. A fatal termination
is inevitable.

CONSTIPATION.

Definition. — A condition of the bowels in which the faeces are wholly
retained or scanty, hard and small.

Etiology. — Mechanical obstruction of some kind in the intestines,
insuflBcient peristaltic motion, and defective secretions in the bowels.

Symptoms. — The evidences of constipation are not usually very
pronounced, except when of long standing, in which case the hair is
long, the coat staring and rough, slight swelling of the extremities, some-
times a distended condition of the belly, and loss of appetite. In all
cases, the animal, during the act of voiding the faeces, will be seen to
strain. The faeces will be small hard, dry balls, although it is said that,
in some cases, the local irritation from the hardened masses will excite
a watery secretion which may give the appearance of diarrhoea. There
is not usually an accompaniment of pain.

Treatment. — In mild or recent cases, careful attention to the diet,
which should be as varied as convenient, and somewhat laxative, will
usually effect a cure. An enema of tepid water and sweet oil, twice a
day, for a day a two, will be found useful. In prolonged cases, a good
purgative, at first, may be necessary, and aloes may be used, as:

00 VETERINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Aloes 3 vi.

Gentian 3 ij.

or for young or not strong horses:

Linseed oil 1 pint.

SPASMODIC COLIC.

Synonym.— Gripes.

Definition. — Colic is spasmodic contraction of the muscular coat of
any part of the intestines. It is liable to run on to inflammation, al-
though this is not probable in the great majority of cases.

Its usual seat is in the small intestine, although it may arise from im-
paction of food in the. large intestine. Colic, of itself, rarely causes
death, and the trouble commonly disappears after a few hours.

It is always accompanied by pain, of an intermittent character.

Etiology. — The causes of colic are various, but in a great majority
of cases it arises from some impropriety in feeding. Any sudden change
of diet, or bad food of any sort, which is not easily or properly assimilated,
or an excessive quantity of food at one time, especially after a long fast,
when the stomach is always weak, is apt to produce irritation and spas-
modic affections of the intestines. In horses which are predisposed to
colic, very slight causes are sufficient to bring on an attack.

Among other common causes are worms, obstructions in the intestinal
canal, such as hair balls, calcareous or other accretions resulting from
the use of hard or mineral waters.

Colic may also be produced by those causes which induce indigestion
generally, such as a lack of gastric and intestinal juices, which prevents
complete digestion; or mastication may not be properly performed; or
the secretions of the salivary glands or those of the liver may be bad or
defective; or the peristaltic motion of the intestines maybe sluggish from
general debility, or from costiveness. All these causes, however, are
aggravated, if not in many cases produced, by improper feeding and
watering, aided perhaps by want of due exercise.

Colic is sometimes ascribed to drinking cold water, but, unless the
hodj is exhausted by hard work, or overheated, it is doubtful if it can be
the primary agent. Crib-biting is a still more doubtful cause of colic.

Symptoms. — The early sign of colic is sudden pain evidently in the

DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 89

region of the intestines, as indicated by the horse looking anxiously
round to his flanks. As the pain increases, the patient will become more
restless, paw, kick at his belly, lie or throw himself down, and get up
again frequently, or roll over, or kick. The nature of the disease is
further recognized by the spasm soon passing away. After a short inter-
val, it returns, however, and the same anxious looking around at his
flanks and struggling is repeated.

During the paroxysm of pain, the pulse is much quickened and the
breathing accelerated; during the intervals, or in the remission of the
spasm, they return to the normal. The mouth continues moist, and
the mucous membrane of the eye is not affected. During the attack,
there is usually a frequent passage of hard angular dung pellets. Inef-
fectual attempts to pass urine may be made frequently.

If the disease is not soon relieved, the pulse becomes very frequent
and contracted to a thread. If the spasms continue for six hours or
more, there is ground for apprehension. In protracted cases the result
is doubtful.

The favorable indications are an increase in the intervals of time be-
tween the attacks, and each attack becoming slighter than the preced-
ing one. Again, if the animal passes wind freely and also soft dung, it
is a favorable sign. The increase or decrease of the attack is also in-
dicated by the increasing or decreasing tenseness of the belly.

It is especially to be remarked that the extremities continue warm
and the skin remains in its usual state. The symptoms are only those
of great spasmodic pain. There is no inflammation present.

Treatment. — Spasmodic colic being almost invariably caused by an
irritant of some sort in the bowels, the most rational treatment is di-
rected to removing this as soon as possible. For this purpose administer
at once an active cathartic*

Aloes 3 viij.

Tincture of aconite gtt. xxx.

Give in a pint of water as a drench, or the aloes may be given alone in a
ball, made up with bran, or linseed meal, and molasses, varying the, dose
from 3 V. to 3 x., somewhat in proportion to the size of the horse.

90 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

If the aloes, which are decidedly preferable, are not to be had, give:

Linseed oil , 1 pint.

or,

Linseed oil 1 pint.

Sulphuric ether | i.

The following is also recommended:

Oil of turpentine 3 ij.

Laudanum § i.

Linseed oil 1 pint.

In connection with the first prescription, if the pain is great, give:

Laudanum § ij.

Warm water § viij.

or, if preferred, a hypodermic injection of morphine may be given:

Magendie's solution gtt. xx. to xl.

Usually, the front of the sternum is selected for injection. Rubbing the
belly and legs often gives comfort to the sufferer, and some advise injec-
tions of one sort or another, but the spasm is commonly so far up in the
intestines that they are of little value.

A horse attacked with colic will sometimes be exceedingly violent,
and care must be exercised in approaching him.

Watch a horse with colic for some hours after the apparent sub-
sidence of the attack, and especially if it occurs at night, look after him
frequently. In all cases give a purgative; for, as the attacks may con-
tinue, it is not impossible, if left for the night, the animal may be found
dying or dead in the morning. A favorable sign of recovering is the free
passing of urine.

FLATULENT COLIC.

Synonyms. — Tympanites; Swollen belly.

This is more to be dreaded than spasmodic colic, on account of the
serious results which may ensue. It is apt to be a chronic condition.

DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 91

Etiology. — Imperfect digestion from improper food, or it may arise
independently of any known cause; if it occurs during the progress of
any other disease, it is indicative of exhaustion of the animal powers.

Symptoms. — More or less distention of the belly, which is resonant
on percussion. The expression of pain is not so acute as in spasmodic
colic, but more constant; there is more or less delirium; the animal is
unsteady upon his feet, and his extremities are cold.

Treatment. — Give a cathartic :

Castor oil § xij.

or.

Linseed oil 1 J pints

Laudanum 3 ij.

and in addition:

Solution of ammonia § viij.

Oil of turpentine §1.

Linseed oil 4 pint

or, if preferred,

Asaf oetida | ij.

Tincture of opium | ss.

in a pint of water.

Cases of slight colic, with intervals of considerable length, in which
the animal is free from pain, are sometimes continuous for several days.
The bowels do not respond freely to the effect of cathartic medicine recom-
mended, and slight pains return at intervals. Such cases are always
dangerous. They seem to arise from some defect in the biliary secre-
tions. They are best treated by administering five grains of calomel on
the tongue, every hour, until the bowels are acted upon.

INFLAMMATION OF THE INTESTINES,

Synonyms. — Peritonitis and Enteritis.

Definition. — Enteritis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane
of the bowels, and is said to be the most rapidly fatal inflammatory dis-
ease to which the horse is liable, destroying life in a few hours.

92 VETERINAKY MEDICINE AKD 8UKGERY.

Etiology. — Inflammation of the intestines may occur as a sequel of
colic, or it may arise from continued constipation, or from any of the
many causes which induce indigestion, or from intussusception, or from
excessive action of a purgative. It is more likely to be produced, how-
ever, by washing with very cold water while the animal is heated, by ex-
posure to cold, or by over-work. Peritonitis is occasionally caused by
any wound of the membrane covering the bowels and lining the abdomi-
nal cavity, and often by castration.

Symptoms. — Unlike colic, which comes on suddenly, enteritis is
usually preceded by dulness, lack of appetite, and feverishness, while re-
peated small evacuations of fgeces are noticed.

After a short time, pain sets in and is constant. The animal becomes
very restless, stamps and paws, looks anxiously at his belly, breaks out
into a profuse sweat, the body is hot and cold by turns.

The earli/ symptoms are the same as those of colic, but with this
marked distinction which at once shows the disease, namely the alsence
of any intervals of ease. The pain, though in general less violent, is con-
tinuous throughout, and the pulse from first to last is accelerated to a
high degree, to double or perhtips treble its usual number. In colic re-
lief is usually experienced from rubbing the belly, but in enteritis it is
exceedingly tender, and touching it gives pain.

The further symptoms are those usually present in inflammatory at-
tacks, namely, cold extremities, dry mouth, and either unnaturally hot
or cold hurried and oppressed respiration, unduly dilated nostrils, with
an erect and quivering tail. As the disease progresses, the pulse sinks,
and the legs and ears feel death-like cold. The mouth feels chilly.

Treatment. — Relieve the pain, if possible, by a dose of

Laudanum | i. to 3 iij.

or a hyperdermic injection of

Magendie's solution of opium gtt. xx.-xl.

Some highly recommend the use of extract of belladonna in place of the
above, in doses of an ounce, and subsequently, at intervals of six hours,
smaller doses of two drachms.

In the preliminary or very early stage, if the animal is a strong one

DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 93

and the pulse is full and hard — not weak, nor above 80 beats in the min-
ute— blood may be drawn, until an alteration is effected in the character
of the pulse.

As long as the pulse is hard and full, stimulants will be injurious; but
at a later period, when prostration supervenes, as it usually does, and the
pulse becomes small and quick, they will be needed.

If on the other hand the pulse, even in the preliminary or early stage,
is small and wiry, and such is generally the case, if the extremities are
cold, and if there is great prostration, blood-letting will certainly be in-
jurious.

Again in all cases, both with a view of exciting external or counter-
irritation and also for the purpose of alleviating the pain, it is most essen-
tial to apply to the abdomen hot blankets steeped in boiling water in
which a little mustard has been put, say a tablespoonful to a pint of
water. When the fomentation is discontinued, blanket the horse well to
keep him warm.

Avoid the use of all cathartics; do not try to force the contents of the
bowels through the inflamed parts. Injections of warm water may be
tried a day or two after the severe symptoms have abated.

When the appetite returns, feed small quantities of food at a time,
and let it consist entirely of boiled substances — bran mashes, thin oat-
meal porridge; milk and water may be given sparingly and in small quan-
tity at a time.

Some cases, properly treated, will terminate quickly and favorably,
but the result is always doubtful. If an unfavorable result is likely to
ensue, the duration of the attack is generally short, and if a favorable
change does not take place in from twelve to twenty-four hours, the case
usually terminates fatally.

The disease may also terminate in effusion of serum into the abdomi-
nal cavity, otherwise called ascites. This termination will be apparent
by a dropsical state of the legs and sheath, as well as by swellings under
the belly. There will be tenderness on the application of pressure to the
belly, and also a straggling gait of the hind quarters in walking. The
breathing will be quickened, short, and painful, and the patient may
probably lie down at full length and groan. The treatment of such an
after-result will consist in good nursing and judicious, but not over-feed-
ing, with nutritious diet, and the administration of tonics.

94: VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

In due time, as strength returns, the absorbents and blood-yessels
will take up the effusion.

DIARRHCEA.

Synonym. — Scouring.

Definition. — A condition in which there is a number of loose, partly
faecal or watery discharges in twenty-four hours, commonly without pain.
It is often a natural effort to expel some irritating substance, and in such
cases will disappear with the removal of the cause. It may be a symp-
tom of enteritis.

Etiology. — Change of food from dry hay and grain to grass or any
soft feed; raw potatoes; improper food; an excessive dose of medicine; con-
stitutional tendency.

Symptoms. — Purging; the dung being more or less thin and fluid,
dirty brown in color, and with little odor; or clay-colored and foetid.
The horse loses flesh, sometimes rapidly, if the disorder is unchecked.

Treatment. — When diarrhoea arises from irritating substances in the
intestines, a mild cathartic will be useful:

Castor oil § x.

Linseed oil 1 pint.

Change the diet which may have been the cause of the trouble. If there
is apparently considerable abdominal pain, the following ball may be
given :

Powdered opium 3 i.

Powdered catechu 3 ij.

Prepared chalk 3 iv.

Molasses enough to hold together.

Robinson recommends for pain in diarrhoea a draught of

Spirits of nitrous ether § U- to 3 iv.

Powdered camphor 3 i.

Laudanum § ij.

DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 95

To be given in a quart of wheat flour gruel, and repeat in one or two
hours if needful.

If, however, the animal is restless and it is not possible to give him a
drench, morphine may be injected subcutaneously :

Magendie's solution of morphia tt], xl.

Fomentations of the belly with hot water, and afterward rubbing with
soap liniment is often grateful to the horse. The body should be blank-
eted after this. Care should be taken not to check the discharge too sud-
denly, and mild treatment should first be tried. Not uncommonly proper
attention to the feeding and watering will work a change without recourse
to medicine. Give bran mashes for several nights and thin flour, or bet-
ter oatmeal, water in place of all clear water for drinking. Keep the
body warm with clothing, and the horse quiet.

If the bowels do not regain their normal condition after the action of
this medicine has ceased', give several times a day:

Powdered chalk,

Hyposulphite of sodium aa 3 i.

mixed in the food, and if the discharges continue with much fa?tor,
give:

Oil of turpentine,

Laudanum aa 3 ss.

Eggs 3

beat up in a pint of tepid water and give for one dose. May be repeated
two or three times daily.

SUPERPUEGATION.

Definition. — Is a result of over-excitation of the intestines by pur-
gative medicines.

Etiology. — It may be caused by giving too strong a purgative, or by
giving a second dose before the first has had time to act. The longer a
purgative is retained in the body the greater is said to be the danger from
its superaction. "Williams says:

96 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERV.

'' Superpurgation does not always depend upon the strength of the
dose. In some instances as little as four drachms of aloes have been suc-
ceeded by fatal consequences. Again, horses in an obese condition, and
those suffering from slight colds, are easily acted upon by purgative med-
icines, and are apt to sink from superpurgation. A full dose of aloes,
from six to eight drachms, operating quickly, is seldom succeeded in
healthy animals by any evil consequences; the same quantity, however,
if divided into two or more doses, has a much more depressing effect, and
is apt to be followed by serious consequences. In the first instance, the
quantity, by its strength, insures its own expulsion; Avhilst in the second,
the aloes is absorbed into the circulation, excites a toxic effect upon the
system generally, and reduces the horse to such a state of debility that
it succumbs to the purgative influence. The explanation of the tendency
to superpurgation in the horse is to be found in the fact that its bowels
are extremely vascular in comparison with those of other animals, and
that the effect of the purgative acting upon so vascular a surface is grave
and serious. I have already pointed out that many young horses, when
first brought into the stable, are rendered susceptible to various diseases
by the debilitating influences of indiscriminate purging, and that such a
method of treatment is uncalled for and irrational. In addition to the
symptoms described by Messrs. Haycock and Field, I have observed that
those of laminitis are induced by purgatives, and that when they occur
they indicate a condition of great gravity.

" The post-mortem appearances are those of congestion of the intes-
tinal mucous membrane generally, concentrated in many cases in that of
caecum caput coli; a thick, tarry appearance of the blood, and extreme
blackness, congestion or apoplexy of the lungs, the blood being, as it
were, deprived of its watery elements, altered in its composition, ren-
dered too viscid to circulate through the pulmonary capillaries, and so
altered chemically as to be rendered unfit for perfect oxidation.

*' In order to prevent the occurrence of superpurgation after the ad-
ministration of an aloetic, or, more particularly, a mercurial and aloetic
purgative, it is necessary that the practitioner should order the animal to
be fed on an easily digestible diet, such as warm bran mashes; that the
quantity of water should be restricted, and that the chill be taken off it,
for nothing is so apt to induce inordinate intestinal action as large quan-
tities of cold water whilst the animal is in physic. It is also necessary
that no green food, roots, or other articles of diet, containing much

DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 97

water, and laxative in themselves, should be allowed at this period. If
a purgative does not seem to take effect in from twenty to twenty-
four hours after its administration, moderate walking exercise is to be
prescribed, for it is a fact that the longer a purgative is retained in the
body, the greater the danger from its superaction; if, however, purging
has actually commenced, exercise, by increasing it, is apt to cause harm.
It is therefore necessary to keep the horse quiet until the physic has
'set.'"

Symptoms. — Constant purging; debility; weak pulse, a very offen-
sive smell from the fseces; foBtid breath; eyes becoming glassy, and if
the bowel become occluded by inflammation, great distention of the belly.

Treatment. — So long as the horse remains moderately lively, the
pulse but slightly accelerated, the countenance natural, and so long as
some appetite remains, it is unnecessary to take any active measures to
restrain the purging, which is the natural and physiological response of
the intestines to the action of the cathartic; it is therefore irrational and
dangerous to check it, and all that is requisite is to allow the horse to par-
take of demulcent drinks, such as thin flour gruel, if it will do so spon-
taneously, at the same time keeping it perfectly still, warmly clad, and
taking care that it does not drink too freely of anything whatever.
Should there be any colicky pains, moderate doses of opium are to be
administered. Care, however, must be taken that the purging be not
checked even by these means too suddenly; as the consequence of this
might be congestion of the intestinal mucous membrane, denoted by
tympanites, great prostration, cessation of the purging, etc., finally ter-
minating in death.

If the purgation continue, an endeavor should be made to over-
come it gradually but not too quickly. For this purpose laudanum,
chalk, and flour gruel are recommended:

Laudanum,

Prepared chalk aas ij.

Give as a drench mixed with a quart of wheat-flour gruel,

every three or four hours until the purging is checked; hot applications
being in the mean while applied to the abdomen, great care being taken
that the animal has no access to cold water or other fluid, as its thirst is
'^eat and it is apt to drink inordinately; but it is essential that it should

have small quantities of flour orruel or other emollient drink, not only

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

to allay the painful and feverish thirst, but to keep the blood in a proper
fluid condition to circulate through the minute pulmonary capillaries.
If the prostration be very great, stimulants, as wine or brandy, are to be
tried; if they seem to act beneficially, they are to be continued, but not
otherwise.

BOTS.

Definition. — Bots are a species of worms found in the stomach and
intestines of horses. Fig. 65.

Fig. 65.
Stomach of Horse with Larvaa of Gastrophilus Equi attached to its coat.

Etiology. — They come from the nits or larvas of the common gadfly
of the horse, which may be seen in July and the following warm months
busily engaged in laying these eggs upon the hairs at various parts, chiefly,
however, about the inside of the knee. The manner in which this fly
deposits its eggs is peculiar, and is well illustrated by Fig. 66.

DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS.

It was formerly supposed that these eggs were licked off by the horse
and carried upon the tongue to the mouth, and thence to the stomacli,
wliere they were hatched; but it is easy to see that they are so firmly
glued to the hairs that this is impossible, and it is also now Known that
the egg comes to maturity while thus fastened. After a lapse of four or
five days, the worm is ready for exit, and then the least application of
warmth and friction, as the application of the horse's tongue, is suflQ-
cient to cause the eggs to burst and permit the worm to be carried off to
the mouth of the animal. Many are, however, crushed in the mastication
of food, others may drop out, but enough find their way to the stomach
to cause, sometimes, quite serious inconvenience, although usually they
do not seem to act injuriously to the health of the horse. Once in the
stomach, they fasten themselves to its inner coat by two strong hooks,
burying their heads in the mucous membrane, upon which they seem

Fig. 66.
Position of bot-fly in depositing its eggs.

to feed. The maggot remains in the stomach during the autumn,
winter, and sj)ring, and in the following June or July, having become
full grown, it loosens its hold and is voided with the dung. It then
buries itself in the ground, changes into a chrysalis, and after six or seven
weeks emerges in its perfect state, ready to continue its round of life.

Treatment. — No treatment is of any use in driving this parasite out;
once in its natural home, it stays there in spite of any effort to dislodge
it. Well educated men, as well as those more ignorant, will often insist
that certain remedies will drive them out, and the poor animal suspected
of having bots is tormented with all sorts of worm expellers, and purga-
tive doses. It may be positively asserted, however, that none of them
can be of any use, the horse may be killed, and not the bots. Horses
which are out at pasture in the summer and fall are chiefly affected by
the bot; those kept in stables are rarely troubled by it.

100

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

WORMS.

Head.

Etiology. — These are introduced
from Avithout in either the food or
drink. A low condition of the system,
pasturing in marshy or wet ground, or
the use of stagnant waters are undoubt-
edly predisposing causes. Young animals
are more subject to them than old ones,
and weakly more than the strong. They
are, however, often found in horses in
which neither of these conditions exists.
Worms derive their nutriment by
suction from the intestinal secretions
and die if the animal dies.

Three kinds are commonly found in

the horse: first, the Ascaris himbricoides

or Megalocephalus, or long round worms,

frequently discovered in the dung. They

inhabit the small intestines, and are

sometimes twelve inches long (Fig. 67).

Second, the Oxyuris vermicularis, a

small, needle-like, lively worm, found in

Male. tS great numbers in the large intestines

and rectum. This worm is usually white

in color and about half an inch long

(Fig. 68). Third, the Trichocephalus dispar, a slender

worm measuring from two to four inches in length, and

consisting of a rounded body for half its length, with a

contracted, thread-like head. These are found in the large

intestines (Fig. 69). Tape worms are occasionally found

in young and feeble animals.

Symptoms. — The only certain evidence of worms is
their detection in the dung. In many cases, their pres-
FiG. 67. ence can only be suspected by a peculiar hard, dry, rough
coides, female, appearance of the coat, or at other times by frequent

DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS.

101

whisking and rubbing of the tail, and occasionally some dry, white
matter may be seen adhering around the anus. Worms may exist
for a length of time without presenting any outward appearance which
might lead to their detection.

In some cases they injuriously affect the health of the horse, whilst
in others they seem to do no harm.

As a general rule, when a horse has worms his system is out of order
— possibly not on account of the worms, but perhaps the worms find a

Fig. 68.

Oxyuris vermicularis. a. Natural size; b,
Head, magnified ; c, Tail, magnified j d,
Head, more magnified.

Fig. 69.

Male and female Trichoeephalus dispar,
magnified.

suitable tenement in his intestines because they are out of order^ just as
the mange insect will lodge in an unhealthy in preference to a healthy
skin.

Treatment. — A temporary clearance may be effected by the follow-
ing:

Spirits of turpentine § ij.

Linseed oil 1 pint.

or as a ball:

102 VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND SUEGEET.

Calomel,

Oil of male fern,

Aloes aa 3i.

Ginger 3 iv.

Linseed meal and molasses .Sufficient

for one ball.

Gamgee recommends as a sure remedy in cases of Ascaris lumbricoi-
des:

Powdered sulphur § xij.

Arsenic 3 i.

Bruised coriander seed | vi.

Make 12 powders and give one daily for twelve days.

A change of diet is always desirable. Salt in the manger is benefi-
cial. Mineral and vegetable tonics are useful in improving the general
condition. Worms, however, notwithstanding the temporary clearance
effected by medicine, are apt to reappear after a time and should be
looked after for a considerable time.

CHAPTER lY.

DISEASES OF THE BRAIN AND NEEVOUS SYSTEM.

Encephalitis, Phrenitis, Mad Staggers, Blind Staggers, Sleepy Staggers, Coma,
Stomach Staggers, Brain Fever, Megrims, Vertigo, Giddiness, Apoplexy,
Chorea, Stringhalt, Tetanus, Trismus, Lockjaw, Paralysis, Palsy, Paraplegia,
Hydrophobia, Rabies, Epizootic Cerebro-Spinal Meningitis, Spotted Fever,
Putrid Fever, Cold Plague, Sunstroke.

STAGGERS.

Synonyms. — Phrenitis; Encephalitis; Mad staggers; Blind staggers;
Sleepy staggers; Coma; Stomach staggers; Brain fever.

Definition. — These diseases may be primarily affections of the brain;
they may and frequently do arise from indigestion; they are all sympto-
matic of inflammation of the brain and its membranes.

Etiology. — Staggers commonly have their origin in some derange-
ment of the organs of digestion; it is probable that it is not so much the
engorgement of the stomach as it is the indigestibility of the food eaten
which produces this malady. When a horse has fasted any considerable
time, food should be given sparingly and gradually, and at first it should
be of any easily soluble character, such, for instance, as oatmeal gruel.

All varieties of this affection may also arise from pressure on the
brain, such as that which may be occasioned by the formation of a tu-
mor or an abscess on the brain or in the lateral ventricles, or by a tumor
in the head pressing on the brain. Such tumors, as they increase, pro-
duce gradually augmenting results either of coma or delirium, or of both

104: VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

at different intervals. Or concussion and pressure, such as that produced
by a blow or fall, may bring on similar effects. From such causes the
blood-vessels may even give way in the brain, and death may be the im-
mediate result, or sensibility may be lost and a state of perfect coma may
ensue.

Sunstroke or the effect of powerful sun and heat, especially on an
animal in a plethoric state, may bring on affection, usually comatose, of
the brain.

Symptoms. — Williams thus describes the symptoms: — The animal
at first appears dull, listless, falls asleep whilst standing, or drowsily
nods its head; eats slowly and at intervals; the breathing is generally
slower than is natural, sometimes slightly accelerated, but it is always of
a somewhat snoring description. The pulse is also slower than natural,
from twenty-six to thirty, full and rolling. When made to walk, it has
a straggling gait, staggers, and seems as if about to fall. If suddenly
disturbed whilst in the somnolent condition, it looks around excitedly,
shivers violently, and seems affrighted; but soon becomes calm again,
and may remain so for a short period, especially if kept in a dark, quiet
place. It now and then thrusts its head against the rack or wall of the
stable; moves the limbs automatically; rears, hangs back, and breaks the
halter, or gets its forefeet into the manger, and elevates the nose high
up into the rack. The eyes, mouth, and rectum are injected, and of a
yellow tinge. In some cases, the yellowness of the mucous membranes
is a very prominent symptom. As the disease advances, the extremities
become alternately hot and cold; sweats bedew the body; there will be
twitchings or clonic spasms of the superficial muscles of the neck, breast,
and hind quarters. Violent convulsions will now occur; the whole body
becoming stiff and rigid, and the respiratory movements extremely diffi-
cult. During these spasmodic — tonic — attacks, the tail will be elevated,
the membrana nictitans drawn over the eye, as if the animal were suffer-
ing from tetanus, and the pulse frequent, hard, and wiry, the eyes fixed
and amaurotic, the mouth clammy, and the urine may be ejected by a
convulsive effort. All at once the tonic contractions subside, and there
will be great muscular debility; the legs bend, the animal totters, some-
times falls, and when down will fight convulsively, and for a time be
unable to rise. By slow degrees consciousness to some extent returns;
the animal may then regain its feet, and will perhaps commence to feed;
then fall asleep, with its mouth full of food, or look about in a wild,

DISEASES OF THE BRAIN AND NERVOUS SYSTEM. 105

staring, vacant manner, or ramble unconsciously about the box, striking
its head against everything that may come in the way, the eyes amauro-
tic, and the animal quite blind.

Sometimes there is flaccidity or paralysis of the muscles supplied by
the cranial nerves, the lips are pendulous, and the tongue hangs out of
the mouth. At other times there will be tonic spasms of the facial mas-
ticatory muscles, and some degree of trismus present.

The disease may attack the animal whilst at grass in the field. It is
then observed to ramble about in an unconscious, drowsy manner, until
it meets with some solid objects, against which it fixes its head, and then
moves its limbs continuously.

In cases which have been noticed at the commencement of the attack,
some degree of rigor has always been observed premonitory to the devel-
opment of other symptoms.

The above symptoms are subject to some variations. In some animals
the comatose and paralytic conditions are the most prominent through-
out, whilst in others delirium, convulsions, and spasmodic contractions
alternate with the stupor. In other cases, again, the spinal system seems
most affected, when paralysis, without loss of consciousness, or with but
a slight degree of drowsiness, is present.

There appears to be a general ditninutiou of the various secretions;
the costiveness is obstinate; the urine is secreted in small quantities, and
is particularly high in color. The function of the liver is also suspended,
and the whole system becomes tinged with the non-excreted biliary color-
ing matter — biliverdine.

As the disease advances, the coma is more profound, or the fits of ex-
citement and frenzy frequent and of shorter duration, leaving the animal
more and more enfeebled; the pulse is now small and quick, and the
breathing stertorous and difficult; profuse sweats bathe the body, the
sphincters relax, the animal is unable to stand, and dies fighting convul-
sively, or in a state of profound coma. Sometimes the animal throws
himself about madly, gets his feet in the manger, tears the rack with his
1 teeth, and breathes stertorously with his eyes apparently staring out of
their sockets. The pupils are fully dilated, no light will affect them, nor
is the horse sensible of surrounding objects. Some hard dry dung pellets
or a small quantity of highly colored urine may be passed. There is
spasmodic contraction of the muscles.

Alternately with the violent fits, periods of repose and drowsiness

106 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

often occur, and the animal stands exhausted and sweating at every pore
with his head bored into a corner. During such intervals the pulse is
almost in a state of collapse. The violent fits come on more and more
quickly, until the animal is in a continuous struggle, panting and per-
spiring and the pulse gradually sinking. If the case terminates unfavor-
ably, death generally occurs during one of these intervals, or apoplexy
may suj)ervene.

Some people, who had not previously seen the disease, might think
that the horse was actually rabid. In true rabies, however, the animal
is not merely frantic, but positively and wilfully mischievous, and pur-
posely attacks everything dead or living. This is not the case in mad
staggers. There is only furious delirium.

Treatment. — When the comatose attack arises, as it does in the great
majority of cases, from indigestion, and especially whilst it is yet in the
early stage, nothing answers better than the administration of a large dose
of purgative medicine, no cause for uneasiness as to possible superpurga-
tion existing in this disease. Take of

Aloes 3 xij.

Gentian,

Calomel aa 7> ij.

Make into two balls with linseed meal and molasses.

If one ball does not have the desired effect after twenty -four or thirty-six
hours, give another. Large doses of purgative medicine must be em-
ployed, because the bowels are always difficult to move when the brain is
affected. An enema of warm water may be thrown up, two or three
times. Withhold all food for a day, give very moderately until the trou-
ble is over. Allow plenty of water to drink. Keep the horse quiet and
allow no noises about the stable.

Turpentine liniment rubbed all over the legs will arouse the secretions
of the skin, and some portion of the turpentine will be absorbed into the
system, and will there act beneficially by increasing the action of the kid-
neys.

When coma arises from other causes than indigestion, medicinal treat-
ment will not be of much avail.

In coma, when it occurs as a primary symptom, the advisability or
otherwise of bleeding depends partly on the cause of the affection, and

DISEASES OF THE BRAIN AND NERVOUS SYSTEM. 107

partly on the stage. In the early stage of partial coma, arising from in-
digestion, bleeding may be useful, inasmuch as by reducing the general
volume of the blood, it will relieve the fulness of the vessels of the brain.
The quantity abstracted should not be large, not over two or three quarts,
but the blood must be drawn quickly. If we cause the strength to fail,
we shall not be able to bring back the stomach and bowels to their nor-
mal action. If the coma arises from concussion of the brain, blood may
be freely drawn, say five to six quarts. If, however, it be due to the for-
mation of a tumor on the brain or such like cause, bleeding is clearly use-
less and so indeed is all treatment. When the comatose state, whatever
may have been the cause, has lasted for some time, bleeding is obviously
inadmissible. The patient is in far too reduced a state to admit of such
a depleting measure.

In mad staggers the same course of treatment as has been recom-
mended for the comatose phase is desirable and should be applied, as far
as circumstances may admit in any particular case. But except in the very
early stage or in mild attacks it is generally almost impossible to apply
those remedies on account of the violence of the animal.

As boon as decided signs of frenzy appear, whether as a primary symp-
tom or supervening on coma, copious bleeding (whatever may have been
the cause of the attack) is the appropriate remedy. The blood should be
allowed to flow irrespective of quantity. On the authority of Prof. Wil-
liams, it may be four, five, six, or even eight quarts, but other writers do
not recommend such large quantities. There is often, however, great
difficulty and risk to the operator in applying this remedy, and indeed in
some cases of frantic delirium it is impossible to approach the patient.
If it be not possible to open the jugular vein, it may be possible to cut
the temporal artery. This class of affections of the brain yield more
readily to the influence of blood-letting than to any other remedy. If we
cannot very quickly abate the phrenitic symptoms, the patient will die.

As topical relief, both in the comatose and also in the mad stages (if
possible), cold wet cloths should be constantly applied to the head, and
a stream of cold water should be poured on them from above.

Blisters to the head and neck are not advisable during the acute symp-
toms, whether comatose or phrenitic, as they tend to increase the de-
rangement. But when the attack seems to become chronic, they may be
beneficially applied, or a seton may be inserted. The latter generally

108 VETEKINARY MEDICINE AND 8UEGEET.

answers Dest. In all cases the Tjatient should be placed in a cool, airy,
darkened box.

The duration of the comatose state is very uncertain. When arising
from indigestion, it will probably be over, in favorable cases, in twenty-
four hours; or it will run on into mad staggers with occasional intervals
of coma. A decided change for better or worse will probably take place
in from one to three days. When the coma arises from a tumor or ab-
scess on the brain, or from a tumor in the head pressing on the brain,
the case may last for weeks or months if the animal be allowed to live
so long. In such cases it is a mercy to shoot the horse and put him out
of his misery. In concussion of the brain the comatose symptoms may
last a considerable time, but the patient will not long survive repeated
attacks of a violent pain.

In mad staggers, encephalitis, phrenitis, or bram fever, from what-
ever cause proceeding, the exhaustion produced by the violence of the
disease will probably cause the animal to sink in a few days, unless relief
is obtained.

Therefore, when the disease has taken a favorable turn and the
patient is recovering, most careful attention must be paid to the diet, to
good nursing, fresh air, and the administration of tonics, as:

Iodide of potassium,

Nux vomica i aa.3 i.

Given in the animal's food twice daily for a time. The regular action of
the bowels should be established, and tonics will be found of advantage
in bringing up the general tone of the animal. The following may be
used :

Sulphate of iron | ss.

Gentian 3 i j.

Make into a ball.

The feeding should be liberal and of good quality. The strength of the
patient is always greatly reduced by the attack, if severe, and especially
jif prolonged.

MEGRIMS.

Synonyms.— Vertigo; Giddiness.

Definition. — Vertigo, more common.y called megrims, is an affection

DISEASES OF THE BRAIN AND A'EKVOUS SYSTEM. 109

of the brain, but the nature of the disease is not well understood. By
some veterinarians it has been defined to be a momentary and i:)assing
congestion of the brain.

Etiology. — High feeding with occasional overwork. Collars which
fit badly and press on the veins which convey the blood from the head.
Intervals of overstrain on hot muggy days, and tight checking up, seem
somehow to have an influence in producing it. Indigestion and consti-
pation, worms and hereditary tendency are among the causes of megrims.

Symptoms. — The attack is very sudden and peculiar. There are
seldom any premonitory symptoms. The animal suddenly shakes and
throws up his head, or shakes it violently or reels and then stands for a
minute or two dull and listless, or runs round, and falls to the ground,
remaining for a few moments partially insensible or in a state of violent
convulsion. The attack rapidly passes away, the horse rises in a minute
or two, shakes himself and proceeds as if nothing had happened, though
perhaps he may appear somewhat debilitated. During the fit his urine
or dung may escape from him involuntarily. The attacks are usually
periodical, and occur chiefly during hot weather and at severe harness
work.

There is seldom any outward sign which indicates liability to this
disease. On the contrary, the horse generally looks well, has a good
appetite, and shows no special nervousness or dulness.

Treatment. — If the attack comes on while driving, stop immediately
and loosen the check rein, the throat latch, and the collar. If after
standing a minute or so the excitement continues, take the harness all
off and pour cold water on his head. After the attack is over, lead the
horse home and put him into a loose box, feed him bran mashes and give
plenty of water to drink. A purgative will be of service. Take of

Aloes 3 iv. to 3 vi.

Ground ginger 3 i j.

Molasses sufficient

To form one ball.

As a preventive, keep the animal in fair, not high condition, and in
regular work, with diet sujaiciently laxative to insure his bowels being
moderately open.

An overloaded or deranged state of the bowels is apt to aflect injuri-
ously the functions of the brain.

110 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

A piece of wet sponge secured on the head and along the forehead, or
a shade over the eyes, especially in sunny weather, will sometimes pre-
vent attacks. In lieu of a collar for harness work, a breast band should
be substituted, and the check rein abolished.

A megrimcd horse, however, is not to be depended on, certainly not
in harness. The attacks may perhaps be warded off by careful attention
to diet, regular work, and occasional physic; but sultry weather, hot sun,
or hard work may cause a recurrence of the attack. It is an incurable
disease.

APOPLEXY.

Synonym. — Cerebral Haemorrhage.

Horses are sometimes struck down by apoplexy as by a blow, and lose
all sense and power of motion, and death quickly ends the scene. Post-
mortem examination often reveals a congested state of the vessels of the
brain and its meninges. In horses, apoplexy is almost always due to
rupture of degenerated blood-vessels. There may be some premonitory
symptoms, such as staggering and partial paralysis, but generally the
animal falls suddenly without warning. After falling it may lie prostrate,
in a state of unconsciousness, without the power of voluntary motion,
perfectly insensible to surrounding objects, and dead to all ordinary
feelings, with its eyes wide open and presenting a ghastly stare, the pu-
pils dilated and insensitive to the light — amaurotic. The breathing is
stertorous, the pulse small, rapid, and thready, the surface of the body
cold, or bedewed with a cold sweat, the limbs flaccid, the mouth open,
and filled with frothy saliva, and in some severe cases the sphincters are
relaxed. In other instances the animal may still retain the power of
muscular movements; but they are irregular, and intermixed with spas-
modic contractions. Whilst down, it fights convulsively, presses the back
of its head violently against the wall or other solid body. Some degree
of opisthotonos is present, the back is arched downward, and the hind
legs extended backward. The eyes move about convulsively, or there
may be persistent strabismus of one or both of them; the pupils may be
dilated or contracted, alternately contracted and dilated, or they may be
natural, or one may be contracted, and the other natural or even dilated.
The respiratory movements are sometimes spasmodic; now and then
there may be a stertorous sound; at other times sighing, and sometimes

DISEASES OF THE BRAIN AND NERVOUS 8YSTRM. HI

expressions o£ great pain, as if the animal had been sharply "wounded
with a cutting instrument.

These symptoms may alternate "with interyals of quietude, when the
animal will fall into the comatose condition. The pulse may then fall
below its natural standard, and the respiratory movements may become
slower than natural, with heavy, deep inspirations. The various secre-(
tions are, in all cases, suspended, and the animal gradually sinks from
increasing brain pressure, or suddenly from renewed extravasation.

Apoplexy differs from coma and encephalitis in rendering the animal
totally unconscious. If relief is obtained, which, however, is rare, the
case usually resolves itself into a state of partial coma, more or less
intense.

CHOREA.

Synonym. — Stringhalt.

Definition. — A convulsive, involuntary twitch of the muscles which
flex the leg, by which the foot is pulled up with a sudden jerk and higher
than natural, and replaced with considerable force.

Etiology. — It is due to some affection of the nerves wnich is not yet
clearly understood.

In some cases it may be traced to the pressure of some bony growth
on a nerve; but as a general rule we are unable to account for the affec-
tion, nor do post-mortem examinations always show any abnormal state
of the nerves.

The disease varies very much in degree or intensity in various cases,
but most generally affects both hind legs and becomes worse with age. It
is occasionally noticed in the foreleg.

In the early stage it is most easily detected, when the animal is first
put in motion.

Sometimes the horse will take a number of steps without showing any
evidence of it, and then the foot will be suddenly Jerked from the ground;
so, too, he will sometimes exhibit signs of the disease only in turning
round from right to left or vice versa, the unnatural gait not always ac-
companying both motions.

No treatment produces any beneficial effect.

112 VETERINAKT MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

TETANUS.

Synonyms. — Lockjaw; Trismus.

Definition. — Tetanus is a persistent contraction without any relaxa-
tion or alternation of the voluntary muscles; when the affection is confined
to the jaws, it is termed trismus.

Etiology. — The immediate cause of tetanus is some abnormal condi-
tion of the nerves and their peripheral centres. A part of the brain, and
the spinal cord in particular, either partially or throughout, is involved.

Tetanus is most commonly induced by picking up rusty nails or other
bits of iron, causing an injury to the sensitive portion of the foot.

It also follows, at times, surgical operations; docking has been known
to induce it in a number of instances. The inflnence of local circumstan-
ces and meteorological conditions are recognized in causing a tendency
to tetanus.

Why, or under what circumstances injury to the end of a nerve will
produce this terrible disease, is, as yet, wholly inexplicable. Tetanus re-
sulting from any such cause is termed '* traumatic."

It also arises not infrequently from any sudden chill to the back or loins,
such as that caused by a horse being left to stand in a draught whilst
sweating, especially if the saddle has been removed. When there is no
external or at least no perceptible external injury, the disease is termed
^'idiopathic."

When the muscles of the face and jaws alone are affected it is termed
"Trismus."

Symptoms. — The attack is characterized by more or less closure of
the jaws, sometimes the teeth are firmly fixed together, great difficulty
in swallowing, rigidity of the limbs and extreme difficulty in moving.
The animal also pokes out his nose, as if suffering from sore throat. As
the disease advances, the jaws become so tightly locked that neither food
nor medicine can be introduced through them.

Within three or four days and sometimes earlier, the symptoms reach
their height. The ears are erect and turned forward, the eyes are retracted,
and the haw is partially protruded over them. Fig. 70. The nostrils are di-
lated. The animal stands persistently, his legs are stretched wide apart and
look more like wooden stilts than living structures. The tail is upraised, the

DISP^ASES OF THE BRAIN AND NERVOUS SYSTEM.

113

belly is tense and tucked up, and the muscles everywhere stand out pro-
minent and rigid.

The voluntary muscles of the internal structures are similarly affected.
The involuntary muscles of the intestines, on the other hand, are torpid,
because the nervous force seems to be monopolized in the voluntary mus-
cles. Hence arise the obstinate constipation and torpidity of the urinary
bladder which usually form so marked a feature in this disease.

Notwithstanding the intense contraction and rigidity of the muscles,
the jiatient is highly sensitive and shrinks from the slightest touch or
approach to a touch. He sweats profusely and groans from pain. A
very marked symptom of the disease consists in rapid protrusion of the
haw over the eye, if the horse is touched under the chin, or if his head
is elevated.

Fig. 70.
Protrusion of the haw over the eye on elevation of the nose, characteristic of tetanus.

Death, unless the symptoms are relieved, generally occurs in from two
to twelve days.

Tetanus, in some cases, by seizing at once or almost at once on some
vital organ, such as the heart, may produce death very speedily, with
scarcely any outward symptoms except great pain and rapidly increasing
prostration.

Treatment. — The disease lies in that part of the nervous system

which controls the voluntary muscles; and consists in rigidity, not in in-
8

114: VETERINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGEKY.

flammation of the muscles. It is said post-mortem examinations have
shown that the nerves leading from the injured parts present some signs
of inflammation.

Bleeding, aconite, opium, and such reducing remedies seldom have
any good effect. Blisters applied down the line of the spine likewise do
harm, inasmuch as they increase the general irritability, and tendency
to spasms.

The exciting cause should be sought for. If it is a wound of the
foot, the offending substance must be removed and the opening enlarged
to give free passage for the pus which has accumulated and will do so.
It is good practice to pare down the sole of the hoof quite thin about
the hole, in order to render it still easier for the pus to escape. Apply a
poultice of :

Ground flaxseed,

Warm water aa sufficient.

Laudanum or belladonna may be added to this poultice with advantage.
The medicinal agents that have been used in the treatment of tetanus
are numerous: purgatives, opium, tobacco. Calabar bean, woorara, prussic
acid, calomel, chloroform, belladonna, hyoscyamus, cannabis indica,
arsenic, chloral hydrate, etc. It is considered advisable to give at first a
purgative if it can be done ithout exciting the horse.

Powdered aloes 3 vi.

Ground flaxseed,

Molasses aa sufficient

To make one ball.

If the animal shows symptoms of excitement give

Extract belladonna , 3 iv.

This may be smeared on the animal's teeth or tongue and will be
licked off and swallowed.

The calabar bean, given in doses of two to four ounces of the tincture,
has a most wonderful effect upon the spasms, the pulse, and the breath-
ing; but this effect is very transient, and is succeeded by a return of the
spasms with great severity. The seat of the wound is from time to time

DISEASES OF THE BRAIN AUD NERVOUS SYSTTM. 115

to be smeared with the extract of belladonna; and when the belladonna
is administered internally, it should be either dissolved in the animal's
mash or drink or else placed between his teeth, allowance being made
for the probable waste.

Perfect rest and quiet are the great desiderata in treatment. The
patient should be placed in a loose box and the light darkened, and no
one except his regular attendant should be allowed to enter. Even he
sliould go in as seldom as possible. Any excitement invariably increases
the spasms. The skin of a newly flayed sheep may be placed over the
loins, and the patient must be kept warm by extra clothing and bandages.
In some instances, however, the skin of the sheep will cause irritation,
and even the weight of the clothing may have this effect. If this should
be found to be the case, the animal had better be left without clothing;
or a very light sheet may be worn. Again, in many cases the straw will
cause irritation, and, if so, tan or sawdust may be substituted for it.
Keep a pail of water in which a couple of handfuls of oatmeal has been
stirred up, constantly in the loose box, so that the horse can have it when-
ever he feels the least desire to drink. It is well also to put a bran mash,
with

Extract of belladonna 3 ij-

in it, in the manger twice daily. If it is not eaten, clean it out and put
in a fresh one at the proper time. If the horse will sip it at all, it is even
better to mix it with milk instead of water.

Some recommend putting the horse in slings as soon as the disease is
pronounced, and in cases which progress rapidly it is well to do so, since,
if the animal falls, he will excite and strain himself terribly in his efforts
to rise.

The prospect of recovery is not usually good. A young well-nourished
animal is far more likely to get well than an old exhausted horse.

PARALYSIS.

Synonyms.— Palsy; Paraplegia.

Definition. — More or less complete loss of voluntary motion, accom-
panied in some cases by insensibility in the parts affected.

116 VETERINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Etiology. — Commonly partial paralysis or palsy in the horse arises
from indigestion, constipation, injuries to the spinal cord from violence,
fractures, etc., and in mares from uterine irritation also.

Symptoms. — When resulting from injuries, the paralysis usually in-
cludes those j)arts of thebody supplied with nerves from the neighborhood
of the injury, and comes on almost at once, the loss of power being quite
evident. When caused by colic, the approach of the attack is more grad-
ual, begining with the hind legs knuckling at the fetlock, and eventually
the loss of i^ower is so great that the animal falls upon his haunches.
After a time, the violence of the attack will pass away, leaving its effects
in weak limbs and tottering gait which may require a number of days
before it disappears.

Treatment. — When the spinal cord is affected, no treatment will do
any good. If the paralysis is reflex, the cause should be removed. When
due to indigestion, give at once:

Powdered aloes 3 vi.

Calomel 3 i.

Make into a ball with linseed meal or bran, and molasses.

Apply cloths wrung out in hot water to the loins, and renew often enough
to keep warm.

If the paralysis is persistent, give:

Extr. nux vomica,

Iodide of potassium aa 3 i.

This may be given in the drinking water, or with the animal's food,
twice a day; discontinue as soon as involuntary twitchings show them-
selves in the muscles.

The use of a mild blister along the spinal cord and over the loins is
recommended, for which purjDOse the best is:

Biniodide of mercury 1 part

Lard 16 parts

As tonic, to be given during recovery, iron is especially useful:

Sulphate of iron 3 i.

Powdered gentian 3 iv.

Mix with the food and give daily.

DISEASES OF THE BRAIN AND NERVOUS SYSTEM. 117

HYDROPHOBIA.

Synonym.— Eabies.

This disease is considered to originate nearly always with dogs, but
seldom "with the feline race.

Etiology. — In the horse, always the bite of an infected animal.

Symptoms. — The disease is manifested in a variety of Avays. In
some cases it commences by great apparent distress, with sudden perspi-
rations over the body; unruliness, the horse stamping and pawing violent-
ly, finally becoming frantic, and destroying everything within its reach.
In other cases, along with restlessness, there is manifested a desire to bite
the seat of injury.

In the stallion and mare it is stated that the sexual desire is aug-
mented; that the stallion has frequent erections, and neighs in a harsh
tone, and the mare stands with her hind legs apart, showing signs of
oestrum.

Treatment. — Can only be preventive. Shave off the hair about the
injured part, so as to surely find any scratch, and cauterize the wounds
with nitrate of silver. If the wounds are deep, they should be freely ex-
cised before the application of the caustic. It is not every horse bitten
by a rabid animal to whicli the disease is communicated, and while it
requires only a few weeks in some cases for the symptoms to show them-
selves, it may be several months, and perhaps it may never appear. It
is, therefore, best to keep a bitten horse quiet for a month or two after
he has received the suspected injuries. Place him in a loose box, feed
him well, but moderately, and give him gentle exercise. If the symptoms
ajDpear, the horse should be shot without unnecessary delay, both to save
him from intense suffering and to avoid any injury he might do to his
surroundings in his spasms of frenzy. There is no cure for the disease.

EPIZOOTIC CEREBRO-SPINAL MENINGITIS.

Synonyms. — Spotted fever; Putrid fever; Cold plague.

Definition. — This form of disease is characterized by inflammation
of the membranes and surface of the brain and spinal cord. It is an
epidemic non-contagious disease, and is usually very malignant.

118 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Etiology. — The causes are not clearly settled, but the disease is sup-
posed to be due to a specific poison existing in the air. Well-fed and
high-bred animals are quite as often attacked as others.

Symptoms. — The symptoms may approach gradually, and this is by
far the less fatal form. The horse will at first be noticed to be dull and
have a staggering gait, with more and more paralysis, usually of the
hind extremities. This extends over from one to three days, when the
coma, generally not deep, comes on. The animal is comparatively easily
roused, and unless a relapse occurs, the case almost always does well, as
far as the acute attack is concerned, but the paralysis which follows this
form is, in old horses, apt to be obstinate. Eelapse may occur at any
time daring the first six or eight days, or even later, and may i^rove
fatal to a case which seems to be doing nicely.

Occasionally the horse is seized with all the suddenness of a spasm.
The muscles of the neck, but especially those of the hind quarters, be-
come corded, fixed, and rigid, and soon grow deathly cold to the touch.
This tetanic state of the muscles may last some hours, giving Avay finally
to flaccidity of the whole muscular system, complete anaesthesia, coma,
and death in from twelve to seventy-two hours. Secondly, and this is
the most common form in which the disease appears, there are premoni-
tory signs, such as rigors, dulness of the eyes, and lassitude of the whole
system; followed in from three hours to dfe many days by paralysis,
general or partial, more commonly the latter, generally affecting the
muscles of the loins and hind extremities, more or less coma accompany-
ing this stage. In some few cases delirium has ensued. The jDatient is
frantic, beating its head against the wall or floor, as the case may be,
with great violence, uttering the most horrible cries, and soon dying in
great agony. In such cases recovery is so rare that it is best to destroy
the animal.

The 2ndse during the first few days is not materially altered.

Temjierature of the surface of the body is lower than in health.

The hoivels are generally constipated, but may be unaffected or even
loose, and in rare cases the fgeces may be passed involuntarily. This is
said never to be seen except in fatal cases, and within twelve or fifteen
hours of death.

TJie urine in appearance is generally normal, and passed without
difficulty; indeed, incontinence is not uncommon, especially in mares.
It may be retained from paralysis, in which case it is, when drawn.

DISEASES OF THE BRAIN AND NERVOUS SYSTEM. 119

found to be of a dark color, offensive and ropy, due to the rapid decom-
position of urea, caused by unhealthy secretions from the walls of the
bladder. I have met with one or two cases in geldings in which
priapism was present; and in mares signs of oestrum are almost always
apparent, with intense congestion of the mucous membrane of the
vagina.

The Ireatldng is more or less stertorous, seeming to depend upon the
depth of the coma.

In the diagnosis, this fever should never be confounded with spinal
meningitis or acute paralysis, which occurs at all times of the year, and
in isolated cases, presenting much the same symptoms as the fever; but
it is not so malignant, and approaches much more gradually, and, ex-
cept in cases arising from mechanical injury, generally follows some
other disease, such as rheumatism, purpura hsemorrhagia, severe influ-
enza, etc. It is indicace dby rapid prostration, followed by paralysis
with usual but not constant constipation. The pulse and temperature
are not guides during t le early stages.

The lorognosis should in all cases be guarded, but the more rapidly
the disease develops itself, the more reason have we to dread its results.
The malady progressing, the unfavorable symptoms are, deep coma, ab-
normally slow pulse, cold extremities, and labored breathing.

Treatment. —The supply of blood to the spinal cord is undoubtedly
too great, and must be lessened; but this cannot be safely accomi^lished
by bleeding in these cases. The first thing is, if possible, to raise the
patient, and put it into a comfortable sling, or if it be unconscious, so
that this is impossible, make a large thick bed of straw, place the patient
on it, and see that it is carefully rubbed and turned as often as every
two hours. This must be strictly attended to, for the position of the
animal, as well as the disease, tends to improper circulation of the blood,
from which nothing but bad results can be expected. Unless the pa-
tient is slung within twenty-four hours from time of attack, there is but
slight hope for a recovery. Having got it into the sling, the treatment
is (if the horse will bear it without showing signs of irritation) to have it
well rubbed down with a brush, especially about the extremities; it must
be well clothed, and its legs dry bandaged with flannel cloths. The ap-
petite, if the horse is conscious, is generally good. It should be allowed
a fair quantity of good soft food, such as boiled oats, carrots, etc., and a
small quantity of hay; remembering always that the bowels are apt to be

120 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGEKT.

costive, and that it is better for the patient if they can be regulated
without physic.

As to the medical treatment, there is a great diversity of opinion
amongst practitioners as to what is the right mode. Some bleed and purge,
generally with bad results; others blister the spine anterior to the seat
of inflammation (as indicated by pressure), with a mixture of turpentine
and mustard, with the idea that the disease is on a march from the
brain, and that this will put an effective barrier in its path. Bella-
donna, colchicum, sal ammoniac, carbonate of ammonia, and many other
substances, have been used with better or worse results. The use of
atropine, injected subcutaneously :

Sulphate of atropine Til v.

Or, in place of this, take of

Belladonna 3 iij.

Ergot I i.

Make into a ball, and give one, two or three times a day,

to be followed by stimulants and tonics during convalescence, but the
stimulants must be used cautiously at first.

Whatever treatment is adopted, the aim should be to reduce the sup-
ply of blood to the cord, and keep the general circulation in as normal a
condition as possible, at the same time keeping up the animal strength
as much as we are able. If, after two or three days, the bowels continue
costive, and do not respond to an enema, a physic ball :

Aloes - . . . 3 vi.

Ginger 3 ij.

Molasses suflScient

may be given.

EPILEPSY.

Synonym.— Fits.

Definition. — A disease of the nervous system, characterized by r^d-
den convulsions ; not very common in the horse.

Etiology. — Not as yet satisfactorily demonstrated.

DISEASES OF THE BKAIN AND NEKVOUS SYSTEM. 121

Symptoms. — The premonitory signs of epilepsy in the horse are not
easily recognized or detected. The first indications we usually have of
an attack is a staggering gait, a champing and grinding of the teeth,
rapidly followed by loss of consciousness, and falling to the ground in
convulsions.

Treatment. — The treatment during an attack consists in giving
plenty of fresh air, and in dashing cold water over the head. In the inter-
vals between attacks, it is well to clear out the bowels by a purge, and
unless contra-indicated, to treat for worms ; give :

Oil of turpentine | ij.

Linseed oil | x.

or,

Calomel,

OU of male fern,

Aloes aa 3 i.

Ginger 3 iv.

Linseed meal,

Molasses aa suflScient.

Make one ball, *

to be followed in a day or two by

Linseed oil 1 pint.

Or if it is easier to administer a ball, give:

Aloes 3 vi.

Gentian 3 ij-

Linseed meal sufficient.

Make one ball with molasses.

Or the following is a still better purge in these cases :

Sulphate of iron | i.

Aloes 3 iv.

Linseed meal suflBcient.

Make one ball with molasses.

122 VETEKINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

SUNSTROKE.

Synonyms. — Thermal fever.

Definition. — An affection of the brain induced by excessive heat,
and particularly by exposure to the direct rays of the sun; it is usually
accompanied by more or less complete loss of consciousness.

Etiology. — Overwork in hot weather, with exposure to the sun.

Symptoms. — Slowing up in his work with a staggering gait. The
horse spreads his legs, hangs his head, breathes fast and loudly; the nos-
trils are dilated and in rapid motion. If the attack is severe, the animal
falls and dies in a convulsion.

Treatment. — Dash cold water, the colder the better, upon his head
and all parts of the body ; blood-letting will do injury and medicines are
of no use. After the attack, throw the horse up from work for a week
or two, if possible; give him good food and plenty of water and fresh air.

CHAPTEE Y.

JISEASES OF THE EYE.

The Membrana nictitans, Simple Ophthalmia, Conjuntivitis, Inflammation of the
Conjunctiva, Specific Ophthalmia, Periodic Ophthalmia, Moon Blindness,
Cataract, Lenticular Cataract, Capsular Cataract, Interstitial Cataract, Spu-
rious Cataract, Amaurosis, Glass Eye, Gutta Serena, Glaucoma, Lacerations
of the Eyelids, Disease of the Lachrymal Passages, Foreign Bodies in the Eye,
Worms in the Eye.

A very marked peculiarity of the eye in the horse is what is called
the Membrana nictitans or Haw, which is situated in the inner corner
of the eye. The haw has two principal uses : first, by moving backwards
and forwards it wipes off the dust or other extraneous particles which
may lodge on the surface of the eye; and secondly, by protruding for-
ward, when the eye is drawn back on the approach of danger, it guards
the cornea, to a certain degree, from any accidental blow. Its motion
may be said to be involuntary, because it is forced over the eye mainly by
the withdrawal of that organ into its socket.

This peculiarity of structure renders it very difficult to perform on
the eye of the horse many of those delicate operations which are so useful
in human surgery for the relief of various ocular diseases. With some
trouble, however, the eye may be got at. It is necessary, in the first
' instance, to catch and retain the haw by a hook. The operator must
frequently touch, or threaten to touch, the eye; and though for. some
time it will be drawn back at each threat, yet at last the retractor muscle
will be wearied out, and certain operations may then be performed. This
practice is adopted with success in India in cases of worm in the eye. Of
late years, chloroform has been used in operations on the eye. The

124: YETERINAKY MEDICINE AND SUEGtKY.

horse has also a peculiar power of withdrawing the eye into its orbit,
which adds to the difficulty of performing operations upon it.

SIMPLE OR COMMON OPHTHALMIA.

Synonyms. — Conjunctivitis; Inflammation of the conjunctiva.

Definition. — An inflammation of the membrane which covers the
surface of the eye, and lines the eyelids.

Etiology. — It usually has its origin in some casual injury, as a blow
of some sort, or some foreign substance getting into the eye. It may also
accompany influenza.

Atmospheric causes are an occasional, but not very common source of
this disease.

Symptoms. — Closing of the eye, accompanied by a profusion of
tears. General suffusion and redness about the cornea. Unless the seat
of injury is wholly external and therefore at once apparent, the eye
should be examined. Here, however, we at once meet with some dif-
ficulty. The animal closes his eyelids firmly. He is impatient to light.
As soon as we attempt to separate the lids, he withdraws his eye into the
socket, and the haw is thereby pushed forward, and the tears flow pro-
fusely. A sharp rap of the hand on the neck will sometimes cause the
animal to open his eye, and an opportunity to examine it will then be af-
forded. If this device fails, the hand should be laid steadily on the brow,
with the thumb resting on the margin of the upper lid; the thumb must
be kept quietly and firmly on the lid, until the retractor muscle ceases
to act violently, and then the lid should be gently pushed upward, and
the index finger of the other hand may at the same time draw down the
lower lid.

A disturbed state of the blood-vessels and a reddened hue of the con-
junctival membrane will probably be noticed. Possibly, on further ex-
amination, we may detect a wound of the cornea, such as that inflicted
by a whip or by a bite from another horse. If, however, there is no sue!
wound, the chances are that some foreign body, such as a hayseed, has
lodged on the eye. The seat of such lodgment is genei'ally under tlie
wpper eyelid. In such cases, the removal of the foreign body is, of course,
the primary requisite. The upper eyelid is easily everted, with a little
tact, by pressing against it outer surface with the blunt end of a lead

DISEASES OF THE EYE. 125

pencil or some such instrument, and turning the margin of the eyelid
upward and inward at the same time. Foreign bodies seldom lodge on
the cornea, because the action of the haw, aided by the flow of tears which
i are at once effused, speedily carries them away.

Although blows over the eye, or upon it, are not usually productive of
dangerous symptoms, yet we occasionally find disastrous results. Concus-
sion of the retina may take place from the effect of a violent blow on the
eye, and may be followed by temporary or permanent blindness. Again, the
humors of the eye may be lost; or the rupture may be internal, and
we may then have an escape of blood into the anterior chamber of the eye;
or the ciliary margin of the iris may lose its connection, and may after-
ward, by process of adhesive inflammation, become attached to some ad-
jacent structure; or there may be displacement of the crystalline lens,
which may be driven into the vitreous humor; or it may fall forward into
the anterior chamber. When the blow is so violent that the cornea is
lacerated and penetrated, there is no chance of a cure, because the re-
tractor-oculi muscle acts so strongly that the lens is usually forced out.

Simple ophthalmia often accompanies catarrh and influenza and also
dentition. In these cases, however, the affection is only sympathetic,
and subsides with the cause. The inflammation of the membrane is only
an extension of the inflammation previously existing in the neighboring
mucous membrane of the nose or gums.

Inflammation of the conjunctiva seldom appears as a separate disease.
When it cannot be traced either to some external injury or to sympathy
with a previously existing affection, such as catarrh or influenza, it should
be looked upon with great suspicion, lest it should be the prelude of
specific ophthalmia

In simple ophthalmia, the cornea, from the effect of the inflammation,
often has a bluish tint which is peculiar to this form of ophthalmia, and
which distinguishes it from periodic ophthalmia; but in other cases it
remains clear and bright. The size of the pupil, it is to be particularly
remarked, is seldom diminished, whilst in the specific disease this symp-
tom is always present. Again, in simple ophthalmia there is a state of
general suffusion and redness about the cornea, whilst in the specific disease
the vessels which traverse the palpebral portion of the conjunctival mem-
brane investing the cornea take a circular direction round it, with rami-
fications proceeding toward its centre.

Treatment. — The treatment of simple ophthalmia, when it arises

126 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

from slight external injuries, is simple. First ascertain that there is no
foreign body causing the irritation. In making this examination, pro-
ceed as just directed; do not expect to find some large substance; look
for a minute speck which will be much more likely to reward the ex-
amination. If seen and quite small, touch it with a fold of dry cloth, and
it will probably adhere and come off on it. If larger, it may be removed
by brushing with a feather, or picked off with a pair of forceps. If no
offending body can be discovered, the inflammation must be treated dif-
ferently. The patient should be placed in a diminished light, and his
head should be tied up to the rack. In the early stage, fomentations of
warm water are desirable; but as soon as the active inflammation has
subsided, cold-water dressings should be substituted, because the parts
need bracing up, in order to restore their healthy tone. If the eye re-
mains weak, it may be bathed with: "

Sulphate of zinc gr. iij,

Water § i.

or,

Powdered alum gr. vi.

Water §1.

For more severe injuries, little more can oe done than to place nature
in the most favorable condition to exert her restorative powers. Ad-
vantage may be derived from smearing the skin of the eyebrows and
lids with:

Extract of belladonna ... 5 i.

Simple syrup § ss.

Salts of lead should never be used, as they are liable to cause opacity of
the cornea.

The treatment of the external laceration or injury, as distinct from
its effect on the eye, is the same as that of any other laceration or injury.

Any very severe injury of the cornea or parts in its neighborhood,
whether arising from a blow or from irritation produced by a foreign
body, occasionally results m partial or even in complete, though generally
only temporary, opacity of that structure. The deposit is indicated by

DISEASES OF THE EYE 127

a white fleecy appearance, and is usually situated between the conjuncti-
val membrane and the cornea, or in severe cases between the layers of
the cornea.

Under favorable circumstances, the deposit will be removed in time
by the ordinary operations of nature, but in aggravated cases it will
probably be in some degree permanent.

For simple ophthalmia connected with catarrh and influenza, no
treatment is necessary beyond cooling lotions, as

Chloride of ammonium,

Nitrate of potash aa § iiss.

Water 1 pint.

Wet a rag in this and hang it over the affecteu eye, and darken the
stable. The disease is only sympathetic and usually subsides with the
primary affection.

SPECIFIC OPHTHALMIA.

Synonyms. — Periodic opthalmia; Moon blindness.

Specific ophthalmia is a rare disease, and is considered a constitutional
affection. It is an inflammation of the internal structure of the eye.

Etiology. — Usually supposed to be malarial. Stables in which the
horse is habitually in almost total darkness and which are almost of ne-
cessity foul stables. It is considered by some, including Percival, to be
caused sometimes by hereditary predisposition.

In the very early stage, many of the symptoms are the same as those
of common ophthalmia. If, however, on examination we can discover no
sufficient cause for the closing of the eye, such as an external wound or a
catarrhal affection, there is always some reason to fear that the attack
may be the specific disease. As the treatment in the early stage is the
same in either case, we may wait patiently for the development of fur-
ther symptoms.

Symptoms. — Sometimes the disease comes on slowly, but more com-
monly appears suddenly and gains ground rapidly. There is turgescence
of the lids, a flow of tears, intolerance of light, a slightly inflamed state
of the conjunctiva at the outer margin of the cornea. As these symp-

128 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

toms increase, the eye sinks somewliat in its socket, and at the same time
the haw is brought partly forward over the eye. Then, there is a great
redness of the conjunctival membrane, and blood-vessels appear in it,
some of them running in a circular direction and others radiating to a
central j)oint; there is also general dimness of the surface, and a copi-
ous flow of hot tears. These symptoms will soon be followed by the
aqueous humor aiDpearing thick and muddy, and the iris losing its brilli-
ancy. In very acute cases, there soon occurs a deposit of lymph, often
tinged Avith blood, which fills up the anterior chamber of the eye, so
that the state of the interior can no longer be seen.

When improvement is about to take place, the curtain of lymph
gradually falls down from the superior border of the anterior chamber,
if it has been attached there, and we are then enabled to see what mis-
chief has been going on within the eye. These changes, both for better
and for Avorse, take place in a remarkably short space of time.

"We may find even after the first attack that the iris is adherent to the
capsule of the lens, or that cataract has commenced to form in the lens
or in its capsule. But these marked eifects do not usually appear until
after several attacks. More generally we find no other trace of the attack
than that the iris has lost in a very slight degree the brilliancy of its color,
the lens a little of its clearness, and that the pupil of the eye attacked is
somewhat smaller than that of the other. A little opacity, varying more
or less according to the virulence of the attack, is also left in the cornea,
l^articularly round its margins. The iris also does not act quite so freely in
the diseased as in the other eye, and hence the pupil is not kept quite so
dilated as it ought to be. All these effects are due to the fact the pro-
ducts of inflammation have not been completely absorbed and carried away.
In a first attack, the animal usually recovers quickly, after the disease
begins to abate.

The iieriod of intermission between the first and second attacks varies
from three Aveeks to three months or longer; but succeeding attacks
often follow more rapidly, until the sight is destroyed by the formation
of a cataract.

Treatment. — No reliable means of preventing a recurrence of the at-
tack is known, but still nothing which can give relief should be neglected.
The patient should be placed in a cool, Avell ventilated loose box, and a
diminished light only should be admitted; the body should be kept warm
by clothing, a linen shade kept constantly Avet should be applied over the

DISEASES OF THE EYE. 129

eyes, as the organ is extremely intolerant of light; and the head should
be maintained in a somewhat elevated position, in order to facilitate the
return of blood from the inflamed vessels.

When the attack is an isolated one, a diligent search should be made
for the causes which may have induced it; and any such causes, if dis-
covered, should, if possible, be removed or reversed. Thus, if the horse
is fat and in high condition, depletives may be beneficial; whilst, on the
other hand, if the animal is low, good feeding and tonics will be appro-
priate. As a tonic the following is recommended by some:

Powdered Peruvian bark § ss.

Sulphate of iron 3 i.

to be given twice or three times a day. In most cases, however, specific
ophthalmia, in spite of all treatment, runs its course, sometimes unobtru-
sively and with scarcely noticeable force, and at other times with acute
symptoms.

CATARACT.

Cataracts are divided into true and spurious. The seat of true cata-
ract is in the crystalline lens, in its capsule, or in both, or even between
the lens and its capsule. Any opacity in the lens must seriously inter-
fere with the vision. So likewise, though in a lesser degree, any opacity
in the capsule or between the capsule and the lens will affect the power
of sight. There are three classes of true cataract distinguished as to
name by the position they occupy, namely, Lenticular, Capsular, and
Capsulo-lenticular or interstitial.

The color of a cataract depends on various circumstances and esjoc-
cially on the length of time that has elapsed since its formation. In the
very early stage the lens may show only a slight nebulosity; later there
may be seen in it streaky lines radiating to a centre, and at last cataract
may be fully developed as a circumscribed white spot gradually increasing
in size.

In rare cases a portion of the capsule of the lens may be partially
clouded, as a result of any injury or blow on the eye. Such cloudiness
is usually only temporary, though sometimes it may be persistent.

Etiology. — As a general rule, after several attacks of ophthalmia the
9

130 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

pupil dilates and clears, and cataract forms. But in special cases the
pupil may remain constantly contracted, because adhesion has taken
place between the capsule of the lens and the iris; or, on the other hand,
the pupil may remain abnormally open, if there is paralysis of the optic
nerve or a tendency to amaurosis. In such a case the eye is more toler-
ant of light, because less susceptible of its effect.

Lenticular cataract, or in other words partial or complete opacity of
the lens, is the result of the deposits left by the repeated attacks of in-
flammation. The effusion is at first interspersed through the substance
of the lens, but gradually, as the more watery parts of the effusion are
taken up, the deposit concentrates to one spot and forms the opaque
speck known as cataract. Cataracts are generally of very gradual forma-
tion. The first attack of inflammation, though it probably leaves some,
yet generally gives rise to no perceptible deposit or opacity; but after
several attacks the deposit or speck becomes apparent.

In old horses similar changes sometimes go on insensibly, ending in
cataract without any perceptible periodical attacks of inflammation.

Capsular cataract proceeds from the same causes and is formed in
much the same way as lenticular; but for some reason not very easy to
explain, the deposit fixes itself on the inner surface of the capsule in-
stead of in the lens. If the lens be examined by a good reflected light,
it will be found to be clear behind its capsule.

In some cases capsular cataracts form from other causes than at-
tacks of specific opthalmia. In such, it is probable that the deposit on
the capsule may be absorbed, and the eye restored to its pristine state.

The third variety of true cataract, known as Capsulo-lenticular or In-
terstitial cataract, is found in the form of an opaque fluid between the
lens and its capsule.

By taking a side view of the eye, these cataracts are easily distin-
guished from lenticular, because the transparency of the lens can then
be seen behind the opaque deposit.

Symptoms. — The state of the pupil is best seen in a diminished light.
The existence or otherwise of cataract, the proper motion of the iris ,
and the state of the structures of the eye generally are then, as a rule,
very easily observed. But in some cases it is advisable to take the horse
into a darkened stable and to examine his eye by the light of a candle,
when the pupil will be found to be fully expanded.

In health, when a candle is moved before the fully expanded pupil.

DISEASES OF THE EYE. 131

three images of it will be seen. First an erect image moving upwards
and downwards, according as the candle is moved. This image is pro-
duced by reflection of the surface of the cornea. Secondly, another erect
image produced from the anterior surface of the lens; this also moves
upwards and downwards, according as the candle is moved upwards and
downwards. Thirdly, a small inverted image reflected from the posterior
surface of the lens; this moves downwards when the candle is moved
upwards.

In lenticular cataract, in the early stage, the inverted image is indis-
tinct. In its later stage it cannot be seen at all. When the cataract has
fully formed, the deep erect image is invisible. In capsular cataract only
the front image is visible.

Treatment. — Veterinary science knows no cure for true cataract.
We cannot avail ourselves of those operations which in the human sub-
ject are so valuable, not indeed for the cure, but for the relief of this
disease. The horse possesses a very jieculiar power of withdrawing at
will his eye into its socket, which would much increase the difficulty of
performing any operation; but even if this diflBculty be got over, the oper-
ations common in human surgery would not be of any use, as it is obvi-
ously impossible to supply the horse with glasses.

SPURIOUS CATARACTS.

Spurious cataracts are opaque specks on the cornea, or flocculi of
lymph in the anterior chamber of the aqueous humor, generally adherent
to the anterior surface of the capsule of the lens or to the posterior sur-
face of the cornea. They are generally the result of common ophthalmia
and consist of an effusion of lymph into the aqueous humor. They oc-
casionally occur as a result of the specific disease.

Spurious cataracts are frequently absorbed after a time. Sometimes
they appear quite suddenly and without any apparent cause, and disap-
pear as suddenly.

AMAUROSIS.

Synonyms. — Glass eye; Gutta serena.

Amaurosis, partial or complete, results from paralysis of a part or of

132 VETEEINABY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

the whole of the optic nerve. According to the degree of the affection,
the blindness may be total or partial. The eye is generally in all other
respects perfect.

Etiology. — Disease of the optic nerve may proceed from various cau-
ses— either peculiar to that one nerve, such as excess of glare or heat, or
from pressure on it, such as that induced by the formation of a tumor
by extravasation of blood, or any morbid effusion, or it may proceed from
some abnormal condition of the brain generally. It may also proceed
from some abnormal condition of the body, such as an overloaded
stomach, which affects the nervous system generally, and with it the
nerve of the eye.

Amaurosis is also occasionally, though but rarely, the result of the vio-
lent inflammatory action of specific ophthalmia; and it occasionally arises
from extreme debility of the whole system from any cause, as from ex-
cessive loss of blood. Pressure from a fall backward or a blow on the
head may also bring on the disease.

Treatment. — The treatment of amaurosis must depend on the cause
from which it is supposed to arise. When originating in atrophy or
shrinking of the optic nerve it is incurable.

Tumors and morbid effusions on the brain are sometimes removed by
nature, and with their removal the optic nerve may recover its tone. Art
can do but little to assist in promoting this change.

In oppression of the brain induced by an overloaded or disordered
condition of the stomach, a dose of laxative medicine will be useful:

Linseed oil § x. to xij.

To be given in a mash ;

Or,

Powdered aloes 3 ij. to vi.

Linseed meal sufficient

To make one ball with molasses.

On the other hand, if the disease is connected with general debility, gen-
erous diet and tonics will be of service.

In all cases, as topical remedies, cold applications to the head and
diminished light are to be recommended.

DISEASES OF THE EYE. 133

GLAUCOMA.

Glaucoma is an opacity of the vitreous humor, or of the tunica hya-
loidea, characterized by a grayish or sea-green appearance of the eyes
which comes on gradually in old age. It terminates in total blindness,
and is quite incurable.

LACERATION OF THE EYELIDS.

Laceration of the eyelid arises from striking against a rail or other
sharp point, a bite from another horse, or other accidental injury.

Treatment. — The treatment usually consists in bringing together
the lacerated parts with two or three separate interrupted stitches (see
page 31). Great care is needed to prevent the patient from rubbing his
eye against the manger. A linen rag wet with water should be hung
loosely from above over the eye; or, if there is some inflammation with:

Chloride of ammonium,

Nitrate of potassium aa § iiss.

Water 1 pint.

Dissolve the chloride of ammonium and the nitrate of potassium in the water,
and as soon as they are absorbed, dip the cloths in the solution and hang them
over the inflamed part.

No part of the injured structure should be cut away, unless it is so hope-
lessly lacerated as to make re-union very improbable. There is always a
strong natural tendency to re-union of these parts, and therefore, with
judicious management, a successful result need not be despaired of, even
in very severe injuries.

DISEASES OF THE LACHRYMAL PASSAGES

Etiology. — When a weeping or flow of tears over the check is perma-
nent, the cause will usually be found in some obstruction of the lachry-
mal ducts or canals, which lead from the eyes to the nose, and by

134 VETEKLNARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

which, in a healthy state, the tears are discharged. The obstruction is
generally due to a thickening of the raucous membrane of the duct,
arising from inflammation. No remedy is known for this affection. It
is unsightly, but not serious. A similar effect may be produced by loss
of the lower eyelid.

A trickling unconnected with disease may arise from an excessive se-
cretion of tears caused by some external irritation, by inflammation of
the conjunctival membrane, or from swelling of the eyelids, which then
obstruct the entrance of the tears into the lachrymal duct. In these
cases, the effect will cease with the removal or cessation of the cause.

FOREIGN BODIES IN THE EYE.

Are mostly confined to seeds and particles of hay and straw or small
grains of dirt getting within the eyelids.

Symptoms. — The trouble commonly occurs at night. The horse
will be found in the morning with the affected eye closed and tears more
or less profusely running from it.

Treatment. — The trouble will generally be found under the upper
eyelid, which may be gently turned back over a pencil or other small
smooth stick; if seen, extract as recommended in simple ophthalmia,
page 124. Afterward bathe the eye with lukewarm water and cover it
with a wet cloth.

WORM IN THE EYE.

In India a worm is occasionally found floating in the aqueous humor.
The treatment consists in puncturring the cornea at its upper inner mar-
gin. The humor will then escape, and will carry with it the worm. The
humor soon re-forms, and the wound readily heels, and in general no
injurious after-result ensues. The inner margin is selected for the ope-
ration because the cornea at that part is least dense; and the upper in-
stead of the lower margin, because the aqueous humor, which gradually
re-forms, will be less likely to again escape (whilst the wound is healing)
than if the incision had been made at the lower part. This parasite very
rarely troubles horses in this country.

CHAPTER VI.

DISEASES OF THE LIVER.

Congestion of the liver, Hepatitis, Cirrhosis, Atrophy, Hypertrophy, Jaundice,
The Yellows, Icterus.

CONGESTION OF THE LIVER.

Is a very rare disease and is difficult of diagnosis.

Symptoms. — The animal is dull and indisposed to move; the appetite
fails and the bowels become disordered; the observable mucous membranes
assume a decidedly yellowish tint; the bowels are constipated, and the
fa3ces are hard, scanty, sometimes clay-colored and foetid. Uneasiness is
evinced on the application of pressure to the right foreshoulder. The
breathing in general is not much affected, but there are frequent fits of
blowing, and there is also a hollow cough. The pulse is full, soft, and
compressible. An abnormal appetite is a common symptom, shown by a
desire to eat earthy substances and to lick the walls. In rare instances
pain is manifested by lameness in the right shoulder.

Treatment. — Bleeding is recommended, no matter how great the ap-
parent debility, provided the artery is full, round, and distinct. Usually
the disease yields to less severe methods. The bowels should be opened
by some simple laxative, as:

Epsom salts ^ iv.

Warm water 1 quart

or, if preferred :

133 VETERLNABY MEDICINE AND SUKGERY.

Aloes 3 iv.

Calomel 3 ss.

Mix with Indian meal and molasses into a ball.

This dose may be doubled in severe cases, but care must be taken
not to continue long enough to salivate. This may be administered once
or twice a day. Mustard rubbed occasionally over the region of the
liver has often a marked effect in relieving the congestion. The diet
should be sparing in quantity, easy of digestion, and somewhat laxative.

INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER.

Synonym. — Hepatitis.

This is also one of the most rare diseases in the horse, and almost im-
possible of diagnosis.

Etiology. — Similar to those of congestion. It is usually connected
with inflammation of some other abdominal organ.

Ascites, or dropsy of the belly, is said to be a common sequel of the
attack.

ORGANIC DISEASE OF THE LIVER.

Synonyms.— Cirrhosis; Atrophy; Hypertrophy.

Definition. — Organic disease of the liver seldom occurs as a primary
affection. It is usually a sequel of other diseases, especially of any dis-
eases Avhich prevent the free circulation of the blood through it.

Etiology. — A state of undue accumulation of blood in the capillary
vessels is the usual commencement of almost all structural disease. This
congestion may arise from any affection which interferes with the passage
of the blood into the pulmonary artery, for instance, inflammation of
the lungs and pleura, influenza, peritonitis, any violent visceral inflam-
mation, valvular disease of the heart, or disease of the pericardium. En-
largement of the liver to a great size and softening of its structures often
follows low typhoid affections. It is also common in old cart horses.

On the other hand, atrophy sometimes occurs, and the organ dwindles
to half its proper size.

In some cases, the liver takes on a scirrhous or indurated state, and
ceases in a great measure to perform its functions.

DISEASES OT THE LIVEB. 137

Ordinary congestion of the liver, especially wlien it has become
chronic, leads to enlargement and softening of the organ, known as
hypertrophy of the liver. It is most often seen in very fat horses, such,
for instance, as brewers', or gentlemen's carriage horses which have not
sufficient exercise. The liver slowly and gradually augments in size, some-
times with no sign of ill health about the animal, until it suddenly bursts
its capsule, and death soon follows.

Softening of the liver is probably due to repeated attacks of conges-
tion, and is very difficult of diagnosis. It is said to result in rupture of
the liver and death.

Treatment in such supposed cases can only be prophylactic. Not too
high feeding and a proportionate amount of exercise. High and overfed
horses with plenty of flesh and sleek coats are those most predisposed to
all liver troubles.

The liver may also become the seat of tubercular and cancerous
deposits. The bile ducts may likewise be obstructed by calculi, when the
same symptoms are evinced as in congestion and inflammation.

The existence of any such organic change, though its exact nature
may not be discovered during life, is indicated — but often very obscurely
— by the same symptoms as those previously described under the head of
temporary functional derangements.

Treatment. — In the early stage o_ organic diseases of the liver, there
is often great difficulty in diagnosing it. There is frequently only a
passive state of congestion. If detected, the treatment will be the same
as that recommended for congestion. In extreme cases of hypertrophy,
an external enlargement may possibly be observed. Percussion may aid
in forming a correct opinion. In many cases, however, the disease
creeps on insensibly and without any well-marked symptoms to a very
serious extent.

When any change of structure has taken place, complete restoration
is not to be expected; but the further progress of the disease may often
be checked for a length of time by keeping the bowels moderately open
by means of saline laxatives, careful feeding, and exercise. The iodide
of potassium and carbonate of sodium are useful in reducing the excessive
action of the organ. Tonics are also beneficial iu assisting it to regain
its tone.

138 VETEKINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

JAUNDICE.

Synonyms. — The yellows; Icterus.

Definition. — A disease characterized in horses by yellowness of the
eyes, white faeces, and dark urine.

Etiology. — Jaundice is caused by suppression, or by reabsorption of
bile, and is a symptom rather than a disease itself. Any causes which
lead to sluggishness of the hepatic functions, or obstructions of the bile-
ducts produce it. Over-feeding and too little work is a common cause.

Symptoms. — Are much the same as in congestion and inflammation
of the liver.

Treatment. — If the cause is non-elimination of the bile, the treatment
will be the same as recommended for congestion and inflammation. If
due to obstruction, the cause of the difficulty should be sought. If the
bowels are constipated, avoid purgatives, and give:

Epsom salts § iv.

Bran water 1 quart

or,

Linseed oil 1 pint

daily until the faeces become soft.

If there are indications that the stomach is acid, shown by the animal
licking the walls or eating dirt, give:

Lime water ^ iv.

Water | pint

or.

Carbonate of soda 3 iv.

Water ^ pint

or, if preferred, the soda may be mixed up with linseed meal and molasses
and form a ball. It is not uncommon for the liver to perform its functions
irregularly after an acute attack. An excessivfe secretion is indicated by
purging, the dung being coffee-colored; a deficient secretion, by clay-col-

DISEASES OF THE LIVER. 139

ored passages smelling offensively. When such conditions exist, tonics
should be administered:

Sulphate of iron 3 i.

Powdered gentian 3 iv.

in the drinking water or sprinkled on the food.

Cinchona bark, chamomile flowers, and quassia may be used if pre-
ferred.

CHAPTER Til.

DISEASES OF THE URINARY ORGANS.

Nephritis, Inflammation of the kidneys, Cystitis, Inflammation of the bladder,
Diabetes, Profuse staleing, Strangury, Retention of urine. Balanitis, Inflam-
mation of the Penis and Sheath, Azoturia, Black water. Nymphomania,
Bloody urine, Phimosis, Paraphimosis.

INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS.

Synonym. — Nejohritis.

Inflammation of the kidneys, or nephritis, is fortunately a rare disease
in horses.

Etiology. — Its causes are not well established, but the disease is gen-
erally attributed to derangement from too great or frequent doses of
diuretic medicines, as turpentine, the resins, or cantharides; or, more
rarely, from the long continued effect of coltl, particularly cold water,
upon the loins. Sometimes it is induced by the absorption of the active
princijile of cantharides from large blisters.

Symptoms. — There is fever and colicky pains. The horse is restless
and uneasy, breathes short and rapidly, and perspires more or less freely.
He lies down cautiously and rises up again, as if suffering from colic;
but the abdomen, instead of being hard and distended as in that disease,
is tucked up. He sometimes stands with his legs wide apart, arches his
back, and straddles in his gait, though these are not to be considered as
peculiar symptoms of nephritis. Tendernes and wincing are evinced on
the application of pressure to the loins. The most sure evidence is total
suppression or but a scanty secretion of urine, a desire to micturate

142

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

frequently, but passing no urine, or only a small quantity, highly colored
and often tinged with blood. In very acute attacks, the horse will sit on
his haunches, groan, and look round and try to bite at his flanks. The
bowels are usually constipated, and the pulse is accelerated and soon be-
comes very quick and weak.

Inflammation of the kidneys is distinguished from a similar affection
of the bladder by the secretion being very small and emitted with much
groaning and effort, whilst in the latter disease the urine is secreted freely
and ejected almost as soon as secreted. In both diseases the bladder is
empty.

When the inflammation is caused by the presence of calcareous sub-

FiG. 71.
The Straddling Gait of Nephritis.

stances in the kidneys, a very marked symptom is afforded by the penis
hanging pendulous and a constant dripping of urine often tinged with
blood. If the patient be a stallion, the testicles are retracted. The
thigh on the side of the inflamed kidney, if only one be affected, is gen-
erally benumbed. If the disease is not relieved, the strength fails rapidly,
and from retention of the constituents of urine in the system the skin
often acquires a urinous smell.

Treatment. — The depressing and destructive influence of the ar-
rested urinary secretions must be diminished, as much as possible, by
exciting the activity of the skin and bowels. Flannel cloths steeped in
very warm water should be at once applied to the loins, and covered with
a rubber blanket, to keep up the heat. Give a ball composed of

DISEASES OF THE URINARY ORGANS. 143

Powdered aloes. ... 3 vi.

Calomel 3 ss.

or,

Linseed oil 1 pint

If the pain and straining are great, add to either of the above an ounce
of laudanum, or give:

Extract belladonna , gr. xxx.

Powdered opium 3 ij.

Make into a ball with linseed meal and molasses, give three daily while the
pain lasts.

If the suppression of urine continue several days, it is recommended
that the flannel cloths or a sheepskin be wet with a warm infusion of
digitalis leaves and applied as a fomentation to the loins, and continued
until the kidneys have commenced to act, when it should be discontinued.

Mucilaginous drinks, such as linseed tea, hay tea, etc., should be
given if the animal will take them. The food, which must be sparingly
given, should consist of bran or linseed mashes, grass, and carrots.
Clover is objectionable.

As soon as the congestion is relieved by these measures, the kidneys
will again begin to resume their secreting function. The urine at first
secreted, however, is always very acrid, and therefore causes great irrita-
tion in the organ. In order to diminish this effect, every endeavor must
be made throughout the attack to get the horse to take mucilaginous
drinks or even water. Half an ounce of bicarbonate of soda given two
or three times a days in the drink will act very beneficially at this period
in lessening the acidity of the urine.

CYSTITIS.

Synonym. — Inflammation of the bladder.

Definition. — An inflammation of the lining membrane of the blad-
der. Exceedingly rare in horses.

Etiology. — Supposed never to occur except as a result of such irri-

144 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

tants as croton oil or cantharides applied externally as a blister or taken
internally.

Symptoms. — Eobinson says this disease is indicated by restlessness
referable to abdominal disturbance, a rather peculiar paddling or repeated
moving of the hind feet, and occasional -whisking of the tail, repeated
micturitions with trifling discharge, pain increased on making attempts
to examine the state of the bladder from the rectum; and in cases of some
severity or long standing, where the contractile power of the sphincter is
lessened, there may be continuous dribbling of urine.

Treatment. — Give only linseed tea, milk, or mucilaginous drinks.
As a diuretic give:

Extract of hyoscyamus 3 i.

If the trouble has been caused by a blister, wash and clean the blis-
tered part thoroughly.

DIABETES.

Synonyms.— Profuse staleing; Diabetes insipidus; Polyuria; Diure-
sis.

Definition. — A disease characterized by great increase, and generally
peculiar alteration of the urine. It is accompanied by excessive thirst,
and the body becomes emaciated.

Etiology. — The presence in the system of the active poison of glan-
ders; indigestion, and feeding of damaged or musty hoy or oats. Boiled
food is also said to induce profuse diuresis.

Symptoms. — The symptoms of polyuria aie excessive thirst, and un-
usual urination. The appetite is depraved, and foul substances are eaten
in preference to the usual provender. The mucous membranes are pale
and dirty-colored, the breath offensive, and the pulse thin and weak. A
disposition to perspire on slight exertion and a rough coat are accom-
panying symptoms.

The urine is pale and of low specific gravity, often as low as 1003, due
ta its watery character.

In some cases it may be traced to the too frequent use of ^' condition
balls, or powders,"

DISEASES OF THE URINARY ORGANS. 145

Diuresis must not bo confounded with that simple augmentation in
the amount of urine which may arise from a multitude of causes, some
of the alimentary, and others of a nervous character. Such augmenta-
tion, when only temporary, must not be viewed in the light of disease.

Treatment. — In all cases, a change of food is beneficial. Grass,
whenever it can be procured, should be given.

If the organs of digestion, as is frequently the case, are out of order,
a dose of:

Linseed oil 1 pint

will be useful. Give linseed tea instead of water, but if the animal will
not take linseed tea freely, he must be allowed water. If the water
which he has been drinking is hard, it should be boiled.
Give daily:

Iodide of potassium 3 i.

Iodine gr. xxx.

or the following:

Iodine gr. xxz.

Sulphate of iron 3 ij.

Powdered gentian 3 iv.

Make into a ball with meal and molasses.

In bad cases, two such balls may be given daily for two or three days,
and is said to be very effectual in promoting a cure.

As great prostration accompanies this disease, a liberal diet should be
allowed.

"When the bowels are opened, give:

Iodide of potassium 3 ij.

twice a day for three or four days, when its effects should be seen in the
diminished thirst and secretion of urine; then alternate with the iodine:

Fowler's solution of arsenic § as.

or,

Sulphate of iron 3 i.

146 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SUEGEEY.

for two or three days, after which discontinue. Either of these last may
be given in the drinking water or food.

RETENTION OF URINE.

Synonyms. — Suppression of urine; Ischuria; Dysuria; Strangury.

Etiology. — Anytliing which impedes the flow of the urine from the
bladder, such as spasm of the neck of the bladder, stone in the bladder,
cancer of the penis, dirt in the sheath. It may also result from inability
or disinclination of the animal to rise upon its feet, as in paralysis, lami-
nitis, etc.

Symptoms. — The symptoms are frequent and ineffectual attempts to
urinate; if standing, the animal will stretch itself out, strain violently,
and groan with pain, discharging but a few drops of urine, or none at all.
Examination per rectuxn will enable the practitioner to feel the distended
bladder with the hand, and this distention of the bladder is the diagnos-
tic symptom. Such an examination will also often enable him to discover
the cause; if from enlarged prostates, these will be felt as oval bodies im-
mediately within the pelvis pressing upon the urethra.

Treatment. — The making up of the bedding and shaking about fresh
straw sometimes creates a desire and attempt to pass urine, and the
effort may be successful. The steady pressure of the hand passed through
the anus on the fundus of the bladder will often cause the urine to be
discharged. Hand-rubbing of the belly is also beneficial.

If the cause be paralysis of any sort, the bladder must be emptied by
the catheter, Figs. 58 and 59. Fig. 60 shows the direction taken by
the catheter to the bladder. In the absence of a catheter, or preference
not to attempt its use, foment the] loins with cloths wrung out in hot
water, clothe warmly, and give:

Linseed oil 1 pint

and afterward a ball of

Ground opium. 3 iss.

Gum camphor 3 ij.

Linseed oil and molasses suflBcient.

DISEASES OF THE URINAKY ORGANS. 147

The ball may be repeated if after an hour or two the horse has not urin-
ated.

If from constipation and the consequent accumulation of hardened
fgeces in the rectum, the cause must be removed by frequent injections of
oil and water, or soap and water, or, if necessary, the removal of the im-
pacted dung by the hand, called by some " lack-raking.'''' Always empty
the bladder by the catheter first.

If retention is caused by the foul condition of the sheath, it may be
the difficulty will be overcome without using the catheter when it has
been thoroughly cleaned with warm water and castile soap, to which add
a few drops of carbolic acid to overcome the foetid smell. After washing,
anoint the sheath and penis with a little vaseline.

BALANITIS.

Synonyms. — External clap; Gonorrhoea of the prepuce; Inflamma-
tion of the penis and sheath.

Definition. — Inflammation of the glans penis, generally extending to
the sheath.

Etiology. — This is quite common in stables where proper cleanliness
is not observed; the natural secretions collect on the penis and folds of
the sheath, dust and dirt get between them, and by-and-by an inflamma-
tion is set up by the decomposition and irritation.

Symptoms. — At first a slight discharge of yellowish pus is observed,
having a very foetid odor. The parts swell, and ulcers form inside the
sheath.

Treatment. — If the penis can be drawn out, wash it thoroughly with
warm water and soap; if it cannot be got at, syringe out the cavity of the
sheath; then apply:

Chloride of zinc 3ij.

Water 1 pint.

Eepeat daily until cured.

148 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

AZOTURIA.

Synonyms. — Enzootic hsematuria; Nitrogenous urine; Albuminuria.

Beflnition. — A blood disease characterized by an abnormal amount
of nitrogenous material in the system. It powerfully affects the nervous
system, causing convulsions and, in fatal cases, death in a few hours.

Symptoms. — Kobertson thus describes the symptoms: ^' They are in-
variably of an extremely sudden and urgent character; there is no warn-
ing or premonitory indications of either disturbed digestion or innerva-
tion, rather the opposite, the animal immediately preceding the attack
being in the very acme of health and vigor.

Although horses laid aside from work or active exercise and regularly
fed may have an attack while stationary in the house, the greater num-
ber of seizures are in animals where this rest and steady good feeding
has been succeeded by work or exercise; that is, the period of a probable
seizure is on being taken from the stable for exercise or work following
some days of idleness. On removal from the stable, the animal may pro-
ceed a very short distance — I have seen them travel only a few hundred
yards, at other times a few miles — when seized with an unaccountable
lameness or difiBculty in moving the limb or limbs, generally the hind
ones, they are with difficulty got into their own or some convenient sta-
ble; or they may suddenly reel, lose control over their posterior extremi-
ties, and come violently to the ground. Many of these very sudden
attacks, unless we bear in recollection the possible occurrence of this dis-
ease and know the history of the case, are apt to be at first mistaken for
some lesion of the spine or muscles of the back or loins. Other cases,
not so suddenly developing the musculo-nervous symptoms, may, in the
earliest stages of illness, give indications of colic; they are restless, paw-
ing with the fore-feet, inclined to perspire, and exhibit a disposition to
lie down. It is when attempting to do this that we generally observe the
feebleness and want of motor-power in the hind limbs. Very shortly
the more specially characteristic symptoms show themselves, if they
have not been observed from the outset. These are tremors and spas-
modic twitcliings of the great muscles of the loins and gluteal region, ulti-
mately settling into tonic contraction or more or less perfect loss of
power; together with discharge of brown or coffee-colored urine in nor-
mal or extra amount.

DISEASES OF THE URINARY ORGANS. 149

In the greater number of cases, in the early stages, the pulse will vary
in frequency from sixty to seventy per minute, and in character from
weak and feeble to rather strong, the temperature ranging from 103° F.
to 105° F. In the slightly affected cases the appetite will not be im-
paired, and the bowels may be natural. In the severely seized the animal
is i^rostrate, perfectly unable to rise, will neither eat nor drink, but con-
tinues to make ineffectual attempts to rise, and struggles violently with
his legs until completely exhausted. In these latter there are occasionally
indications of cerebral disturbance, partial coma, with much engorge-
ment of conjunctival membranes.

During the time they remain recumbent, also in many cases which have
been placed in slings, there are periodic fits of straining, ejectment of small
quantities of dirty-colored urine, or constant and involuntary dribbling
of it from the passages .

The only diseases in the horse with which this affection may be con-
founded are anthrax and cerebrospinal fever. From the former of these
it may be differentiated — 1. By the constancy of lameness or defect of
motor-power in the third limbs, which in anthrax is rarely or only occa-
sionally exhibited; 2. The comparative frequency of this affection and
its special liability to follow rest and liberal dieting; 3. The presence in
anthrax of the specific organisms, the bacillus anthracis, and the jiower
of propagation by inoculation; 4. The rarity of recovery in anthrax as
compared with azoturia. From cerebro-spinal fever it is distinguished
— 1. By the physical and chemical characters of the urine; 2. By the
non-coincidence of the appearance of cerebro-spinal fever with conditions
of rest and peculiarities of diet; 3. By the greater constancy in this dis-
ease of morbid lesions in connection with the organs of assimilation as
contrasted with those observed in the great nerve-centres in the other."

Treatment. — Keep the various excretory organs acting freely, in
order to assist nature in expelling the degraded products from the circu-
lation. For this purpose a cathartic or oleaginous aperient ought to be
administered without delay. Give preferably :

Aloes 3vi.

Ginger 3ij.

Linseed meal,

Molasses aa, sufficient.

The kidneys generally act freely enough, and need no stimulus; but

150 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND 8UK&ERY.

should they cease to perforin their functions, diuretics, and more particu-
larly colchicnm,

Tincture of colchicum | L

In drinking water.

are to be used. The animal should always be placed in a large, well-
bedded, dry, loose box, with plenty of short straw or chaff around it,
which is to be removed as soon as it becomes damp or wet. If unable to
rise, it is to be turned from side to side two or three times a day, or more
frequently if it becomes uneasy. Enemas are to be administered until
purgation commences, and plenty of diluents allowed. Generally the
horse is thirsty, and will drink cold water freely and to manifest advan-
tage.

There is no necessity to aggravate the disease by either stimulants or
sedatives. They always do harm during the first stages of the malady.
If, however, towards the third day the animal seems depressed, moderate
doses of spirits of nitrous ether may be given two or three times daily;
and about this time attempts should be made to get the horse on its legs.
If unable to do so without assistance, the slings should be placed under
it, and it is to be gradually placed on its feet. At first it will be much
disinclined to stand, and will be apt to fall from muscular weakness; but
if the limbs are supported and smartly hand-rubbed for some minutes,
they will regain much of their lost power, the horse will begin to ''feel
himself," as is commonly said, and will often commence to feed and do
well. It should be kept in the slings for a few days, but taken out occa-
sionally for a little exercise; and when allowed to lie down for the first
time, it should be carefully watched, as it is apt to knock about very
much if unable to rise with ease.

During the first few days the diet is to be of the lightest description
and restricted in quantity, but when convalescence has commenced, it
must be moderately nutritive and easy of digestion, as much muscular
debility exists in the digestive apparatus as well as in the voluntary mus-
cles. At this stage Kobinson advises a ball of

Nux vomica 3 ss. to 3 i.

Gentian,

Ginger aa 3 ij.

Linseed meal,

Turpentine aa sufficient.

DISEASES OF THE UKINAKY ORGANS. 151

Williams says he has never seen any benefit accrue from external ap-
plications to the loins or back; that, on the contrary, fomentations, fric-
tions, stimulants, or blisters increase the irritability of the animal, cause
it to struggle when it otherwise would remain quiet, and do much harm;
while Robertson advises them.

During convalescence care must be taken not to overload the stomach,
and to promote a healthy condition by judicious variety in food.

BLOODY URINE.

Etiology. — Bloody urine generally arises from sprain of the muscles
in the neighborhood of the kidneys. It may also be due to an escape of
the coloring matter of the blood, without any inflammation being pres-
ent.

Treatment. — The treatment in such cases is rest and laxative diet,
especially grass. Linseed tea should also be given.

PHIMOSIS

Definition. — *' A morbid condition of the prepuce or sheath, which,
from contj'action of the orifice, prevents the drawing in or exit of the
penis. " — (Percivall. )

Etiology. —Phimosis is the result of inflammation or engorgement of
the sheath round about the orifice, or of enlargement of the glans penis, or
of co-existence of these states. Blows, kicks, contusions, wounds, abscesses
within the sheath, the presence of warts or excrescences of any kind, polypi
even, may all be set down as occasional causes. In geldings the penis
becomes diminished in volume and length, so much so in some horses as
not to appear protruded in the act of urination; in which case the sebaceous
secretion furnished by the interior of the prepuce accumulates within the
folds of the integument, and acquires, by detention, irritating properties,
which cause the glans penis to inflame and swell to that degree that the
animal can no longer pass his urine. In addition to these causes phimo-
sis is occasionally seen Avhen the sheath is much swollen from oedema,
reduced by want of exercise, disease, the stings of insects, or castration.

Treatment. — The treatment must depend upon the cause. If that be

152 VETERINA.KY MEDICINE AND SUKGERY.

inflammatory, antiplilogistics, fomentations, and perhaps scarifications; if
cedematous, scarifications, frictions with the hand, exercise, diuretics, or
purgatives, as tlie case may be; and when associated witli debilitating dis-
eases, tonics and good food. Cold fomentations are generally of great
service.

PARAPHIMOSIS.

The penis is protruded in paraphimosis, and cannot be withdrawn
within the sheath.

Etiology. — It may arise from a weakened condition of the penis,
sometimes associated with debilitating diseases, or a paralysis sui generis,
or from swelling of the glans penis, with protrusion and enlargement of
it, arising from an accident or castration; the sheath forming a tight con-
striction around it, and preventing its retraction. It may also be caused
by excessive venereal action, continued friction against the mare before
coition, kicks from vicious females, or blows of a stick. *'The penis
paraphimosed " (says D'Arboval) *' appears protruded out of its sheath
to the extent of half a foot, swollen to the size, perhaps, of a man's
thigh, evidently in consequence of effusion into the cellular tissue of its
envelopes, and is curved in the form of an arc, and knotted from partial
circular contractions, which, when excessive, are productive of congestion
of the organ (Fig. 72). Its extremity, the part most tumefied,, turns of a

Fig. 72.
The penis in paraphimosis.

red-brown; violent inflammation accompanies all this, and the consequent
pain is extreme. For all there is so much swelling, however, in general
the urine gets a j^assage, though, should the inflammation run very high,
and spread to the body of the penis, gangrene may be the result."

DISEASES OF THE URINARY ORGANS. 153

Treatment. — Fomentations with cold water, friction, moderate exer-
cise whenever jjossible.

Broad's treatment is as follows, viz. :

Put the penis into a tight elastic stocking by squeezing it with the
hands, and as it reduces, lessen the size of the stocking, and suspend the
penis as much as possible. If there be much effusion into the surround-
ing tissues, apply a wide canvas band, with long straps and buckles,
round the body, so as to supjoort and cause pressure to the swollen tis-
sues. A few hours' compression from the stocking will often reduce it
sufficiently to enable the horse to retract it.

Amputation, which is necessary in certain cases, should only be at-
tempted by a professional veterinarian.

CHAPTER YIIL

DISEASES OF THE SKIN.

Cracked Heels, Scratches, Acne, "Warbles, Slight Tumors, Sitfasts, Erythema,
Mud Fever, Urticaria, Nettle Rash, Surfeit, Scabies, Mange, Itch, Scab,
Prurigo, Pruritus, Surfeit, Ringworm, Herpes Circinnatus, Tinea tonsurans,
Warts, Eczema, Eczema Simplex, Mallenders, Sallenders, Humid Tetter,
Lichen or Rat-tails, Eczema Pustulosura, Grease, Psoriasis.

CRACKED HEELS.

Synonyms. — Scratches.

Fig. 73.
Cracked Heels.

Definition. — Cracked heels are chaps of the skin in and about the hol-
low of the heel.

Etiology. — This affection is usually produced by exposure to wet and

156 VETERINAKY MEDICINjj; AND SCKGERY. "

cold, and therefore occurs most frequently in the fall and winter months.
Too close clipping of the long hair which is the natural protection to
those j)arts predisposed to it.

Symptoms. — Lameness, more pronounced when starting off. Dry,
inflamed condition of the skin about the jjarts, and subsequently small
crusts from which a thin watery discharge exudes. In bad cases the en-
tire leg, and even the belly is affected.

Treatment. — Keep the parts dry. If necessary to wash, do so with
warm water and castile soap, and dry thorouglily. If the skin be un-
broken, rub with fresh lard or vaseline. Dust with powdered alum twice
a day. If cracked, rub with:

Carbonate of zinc 3 i.

Lard 3 vi.

Mix.

If the edges of the crusts look indolent, they may be touched with a
solution of sulphate of copper, two ounces in a pint of water.

It is a very troublesome affection and often takes a long time to over-
come.

ACNE.

Synonyms. — Warbles; Slight tumors; Sitfasts.

Warbles or Slight Tumors.

Definition. — Warbles are recent soft swellings or tumors arising from
inflammation of the skin.

Etiology. — They are generally caused by friction or undue pressure
of the saddle girth or collar on the part affected, or sometimes by bad
saddling or bad riding, even though the saddle fit perfectly. The swell-
ing itself is due to a slight effusion of serum or lymph, or of both, pro-
duced by inflammation of the sebaceous follicles of the skin.

Treatment. — The first essential in treatment is to remove the cause
of the irritation. In addition, the horse should, if possible, be spared from
work for a day or two. The stuffing and fitting of the saddle or other
article of equipment should be looked to and, if necessary, altered. Har-
ness lined with woollen cloth of any kind should be avoided. In some
cases a chamber must be made over the i^art affected.

The warble itself will be best treated by the application of solution of

DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 157

salt and water. If the part continues indolent and is likely to suppurate,
the injury is beyond what is usually called a warble, and must be treated
according to its nature and degree, as a contused wound, by application
of

Biniodide of mercury 1 part

Lard 16 parts

or the continued application of poultices:

Lineeed meal,

Sweet O-l,

Boiling water aa sufficient.

Mix the meal with the water and then stir in the oil.

Troublesome fluctuating warbles sometimes require to be laid open
through the centre from end to end. The interior should then be in-
jected with a weak solution of carbolic acid, say:

Carbolic acid 1 part

Water * 50 parts

and cold-water dressings with one per cent of carbolic acid may afterward
be applied to the part until healed.

Sit PASTS.

When a swelling such as just described, either by neglect or by re-
peated recurrence of the cause, has become hard and insensible, and the
skin is permanently injured, it is no longer termed a warble, but is known
as a sitfast, because of the difi&culty of removing it. The skin becomes
thickened and half dead, and is often adherent to the bottom of the sore
and kept alive by blood at its root. The sitfast will frequently be found
to be partially separated all round from the living skin.

The best treatment is to cut it out. Cut the tissue and remove every
particle of the hard horny skin, after which it may be carefully touched
with nitrate of silver, to remove any of the disorganized part which has
been left by the knife.

158

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

True elastic skin of the original quality is never reproduced when
once destroyed, either in the case of sitfasts or of any other injuries; but

y^'

a substitute is formed which answers sufiBciently well in most cases, and
the skin all round will contract in such a way as to leave only a small
scar.

ERYTHEMA.

Synonym.— Mud Fever.

Definition. — An inflammation of the outer layer of the skin.

Etiology. — An exposure to cold, wet, undue pressure of the harness,
abrasions of the skin. Also hereditary predisposition, clipping, and the
practice of cutting the hair closely on the legs, and particularly about
the fetlock joint.

Symptoms. — If the skin is colorless, a general redness may be per-
ceived, and there is some heat and slight swelling. In the form termed
mud fever, all the legs and the surface of the abdomen are sometimes
covered by patches of superficial inflammation. The hair and cuticle
subsequently come off in patches. After cracked heels and scratches, the
skin sometimes presents a scabby appearance, and the legs swell at night.
Slight stiffness may appear in the gait when first moved in the morning,
which soon disappears.

DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 159

Treatment. — For mud fever Williams recommends:

Glycerin 3 iv.

Diluted solution of subacetate of lead 3 ss.

Apply once or twice daily and exercise the animal by walking moderately.
Other treatment will be seldom required.

For erythema of the legs. — Avoid the cause; apply zinc ointment:

Carbonate of zinc '. . . § i.

Lard § vi.

or a liniment of:

Solution of subacetate of lead § ij.

Olive oil I viij.

In cases of long standing, it is best to touch the parts with a solution of
nitrate of silver:

Nitrate of silver 3 i.

Water | i.

If the skin is very tender and easily galled by the harness, foment the
part with :

Acetate of lead ^ i.

Water 1 pint

URTICARIA.

Synonrays. — Nettle-rash; Surfeit.

Definition. — This is a frequent form of skin disease in the horse, and
consists of an eruption of elastic eminences, roundish or oblong in shape,
and attended with itching.

Symptoms. — The lumps rise quickly, and upon the greater part of
the body, generally beginning upon the neck, and frequently disappear-

160 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

ing as suddenly as they come. They are unequal in size, some like hemp-
seed, others as large as beans, and flattened upon their surface.

The peculiarity of this form of eruption is its suddenness. The
lumps appear upon all parts of the body in the course of a few minutes.
It is caused by some disorder of the digestive apparatus, and is some-
times preceded by colic and diarrhoea.

A sudden change of diet will frequently produce it, and it is not at
all uncommon when horses are first fed on grass. It is supposed that
poisonous herbs, a draught of cold water when the animal is heated,
sudden exposure to cold and damp, and calculi or worms in the intes-
tines, are causes of it.

Treatment. — As a rule, this is a very simple matter, a mild purga-
tive being all that is necessary. Give a ball of:

Powdered aloes 3 vi.

Ginger 3 ij*

Linseed meal,

Molasses aa sufficient.

Should there be much itchiness — the animal rubbing itself — the skin
must be bathed with warm water, dressed with the acetate of lead lo-
tion, recommended for erythema, and low diet prescribed for a few days.

SCABIES.

Synonyms. — Mange; Itch; Scab.

Etiology. — This disease depends upon the presence of a parasitic
insect (Fig. 75), which is so small that it can be seen with the naked
eye only by the most careful scrutiny. The attacks of this animalcule
cause irritation and itching of the skin, and, as a result, the hair falls
off in patches.

Mange is a sure sign of neglect and dirt, or of injudicious feeding, or
of bad management of some sort.

While mango is said to be non-contagious among healthy and well-
groomed horses, it is, nevertheless, proper to isolate any horse affected
with mange, and not use the same brush and comb as on other animals.

Symptoms. — Mange usually commences at the roots of the hair of

DISEASES OF THE SKIN.

161

the mane and tail. Multitudes of minute pustules appear, whose sum-
mits gradually expand, burst, and coalesce with one another; and the
discharge from these forms patches of crusts upon the skin. Under
these crusts the hair loosens at its roots, and either falls out or is rubbed
off from time to time, and at length the place is left bare.

Fig. 75.
Dermatodectes Equi.

The skin loses its elasticity, becomes corrugated in harsh dry folds,
especially about the neck and sides; sometimes blood oozes from the bare
places. The disease is accompanied with intolerable itching.

Treatment. — The treatment of mange must be thorough to be ef-
fective. The parts affected must be dressed with a solution of carbolic
acid in the proportion of half an ounce of the acid to a pint of water.

In slight and recent cases, the skin will soon recover its tone when
11

162 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

the itch mites have been killed, and in most cases the hair will grow-
again.

Brush of dry all the loose incrustations and scurf, and wash thor-
oughly with soap and warm water in which a little bicarbonate of sodium
has been dissolved. Dry, and apply tliorougJily any one of the following,
viz.:

Oil of turpentine , § i.

Soft soap § iij.

Or,

Ammoniated mercury | i.

Fresh lard |iij.

Or,

Flowers of sulphur §ij.

Ointment of carbolic acid § vij.

PRURIGO.

Synonyms. — Pruritus; Surfeit.

Definition. — A disordered condition of the skin characterized by in-
tense itching.

Etiology. — It is usually ascribed to over-feeding with highly nutri-
tious food and too little work.

Fig. 76.
Sign of Prurigo.

Symptoms. — Patches of pimples on those parts of the body covered
by harness, especially under the collar, which itch intolerably and cause
the horse to scratch and bite the affected parts. Fig. 76 is a common
symptom of the disorder.

Treatment. — Feed more moderately and give steady work. Mix and
apply to the affected parts:

DISEASES OT THE SKIN.

163

Liquor potassa 3 ij-

Hydrocyanic acid 3 i.

Water 1 quart.

Pruritus of the tail is a very common form of the disease, and seems
to become a habit with some horses. Sometimes, however, it depends
upon the presence of ascarides in the rectum. The treatment con-
sists in giving enemas of a decoction of quassia to destroy the parasites,
dressing the tail with mercurial ointment, or with equal parts of paraffin
and fish oil, and if the disease affects the skin generally, give twice daily:

Flowers of sulphur 3 i j.

Arsenic .. ■. gr. ij.

mixed with the food; and when the prurigo is a habit, the root of the tail
must be protected by a strong leather band, securely fastened whilst the
animal is in the stable.

RINGWORM.

Synonyms. — Herpes circinatus; Tinea tonsurans.
Definition. — An eruption upon the skin which assumes a circular
form. In herpes circinatus, the eruption is vesicular and is non-con-

ii;!V/VHi)iV"r

Appearance of Ringworm.

tagious. When a hair is pulled out, the root or bulb will usually come out
with it. The eruption of tinea tonsurans, on the contrary, is character-

164r VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

ized by absence of vesicles and by the formation of scurf around the hairs,
which in tliis form of ringworm break off short on being pulled. Tinea
tonsurans is contagious. Herpes circinatus is due to derangement of
the digestive organs, or the respiratory mucous membrane.

Etiology. — Tinea tonsurans is produced by a vegetable parasite
which affects especially the hair follicles. The disease may commence in
any part.

Symptoms. — In herpes, the vesicles, large or small, in ring form, in-
closing healthy skin, are typical (Fig. 77). In tinea, a white scaly scurf,
accompanied with staring of the hairs in the part affected, is the first
positive indication, followed by a thickened scurf with raised eminences.
This spreads rapidly in blotches over the neighboring parts, generally
assuming the form of rings, and the hair falls off. The appearance is so
peculiar that the disease cannot be mistaken by any one who has ever
seen a case.

In ordinary cases, tinea is not very contagious, though generally sup-
posed to be so. It frequently, however, runs through stables, much in
the same way as influenza and other diseases, because similar causes pro-
duce similar effects.

Treatment. — Herpes commonly requires little treatment. The
parts may be washed with lead liniment:

Solution of subacetate of lead § ij.

Olive oil § vii j.

In tinea the hair should be clipped off round the blotches, and the parts
must be well washed as in mange, and apply:

Iodide of potassium § i.

Flowers of sulphur | ij.

Iodine |ss.

Lard |viij.

Mix thoroughly.

Or,

Nitrate of silver gr. x.

Lard 5 i.

In either form of ringworm, a bran mash with a pound of boiled
linseed meal daily, in addition to the usual food for a few days, will
exert a beneficial influence on the skin; and an alterative consisting of:

DISEASES OF THE SKIN". 165

Nitrate of potassium 3 ij.

Flowers of sulphur gr. xxx.

may also be given in the mash for two or three days.

WARTS.

Etiology. — Unknown.

They appear on the thin and more delicate portions of the skin,
as the sheath, the inner surfaces of the hind limbs, the abdomen, the
eyelids, and the sides of the nose, and sometimes on the neck, where the
skin has been injured by the collar.

They vary in size from that of a pea to that of a large potato. The
wart commences as a small round substance, and gradually increases.
As it increases, it becomes divided into clefts and fissures, from which
the blood occasionally exudes.

Treatment. — Warts, if removed, should be operated upon while yet
small. The best practice is to scrape the surface and then dress it with
chloride of zinc. Large warts may, however, require to be removed by
the knife. Some care is needed in the operation to prevent excessive
bleeding. The divided blood-vessels should be stanched by some styptic,
as tannin, persulphate of iron, or, if necessary, the application of the hot
iron.

In some cases, where there is a small base, the wart may be deprived
of its nutriment by means of a silk ligature tied tightly round it, and in
due time it will perish and drop off. In other cases, small warts, after
an incision has been made in the skin over them, may be squeezed out
by the fingers.

It is as well, when the warts appear on such delicate parts as the eye-
lids or lips, to try the effect of repeated applications of nitric acid, being
very careful that the acid does not touch any part except the wart.

ECZEMA.

The majority of skin diseases, says Williams, particularly in the horse,
are due to the expression of some form of eczema; indeed, it may be
looked upon as the commonest form of skin disease.

166 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY..

The vesicles wliicli characterize eczema are usually developed at the
orifices of the cutaneous follicles, are easily ruptured, and discharge a
fluid which is glutinous and irritating to the skin. When the vesicles
are not ruptured, they terminate by absorption of the fluid; but the dis-
ease does not often come to an end with the drying up of one crop of
vesicles. More commonly, the eruption is successive, and crop after
crop of vesicles is formed; or the surface, on which they first appeared,
remains red and raw, and continues to discharge a fluid resembling that
contained in the vesicles. After the disease has existed some time, there
is a thickening of the derma, which becomes corrugated, more especially
in those parts of the body where the skin is naturally loose and movable.

The individual vesicles of eczema do not last long, and in some cases
no vesicles are found; but the skin is inflamed, and fissures make their
appearance in the epidermis. These fissures are at first suj)erficial, but
become deeper if the disease continues. Eczema characterized by fissures
is generally a chronic form of the disease. The various forms of eczema
which affect horses are: eczema simplex or humid tetter, lichen, and
eczemp. pustulosum or grease.

Eczema Simplex, Humid Tetter,

is a non-contagious disease, and it usually commences about the neck
shoulders, back, and thighs. It usually comes on suddenly, and is mani-
fested by itchiness, which causes the animal to rub and bite itself until
the hair and cuticle are brought off, leaving the skin red, raw, and in-
flamed. Successive crops of vesicles develop themselves, dry on the sore
skin, or discharge a fluid which seems to cause an extension of the dis-
order. The parts of the body most usually affected are those which are
covered by the saddle or harness; but it may affect any part, such as the
head, neck, quarters, thighs, and forearms. It is generally called mange,
but it differs from true scabies in two essential particulars, namely, it
is not contagious, and does not depend upon the presence of a parasite.

Eczema simplex is sometimes very troublesome and difficult to treat.
In some horses it occurs periodically, or when an alteration is made in
the diet.

Etiology. — In the summer, horses are subject to it when first put
on green food, and almost invariably an animal which has suffered from
one attack is liable to a recurrence.

DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 167

In such instances eczema occurs symptomatically as a consequence of
some constitutional disturbance. In other cases, the disease is induced
by the direct application of irritants heat, cold, strong ointments of sul-
phur, tar, and blisters.

It may attack several animals at the same stable, and this may lead
one to suppose that it is true scabies; but it is not so, and the reason
why several animals are thus attacked is explainable by the fact that
they are all partaking of the same kind of food, and subjected to the
same treatment in other ways.

Lichen, Rat Tails,

is confined to the legs of horses, and situated along the course of the
flexor tendons. Sometimes all four legs are affected, frequently one or
two; and from the peculiarity of appearance it gives to the legs the dis-
ease is known as " Eat tails." This appearance is due to an exudation
around the hair follicles; the hairs remain unchanged, except from fric-
tion, and emerge from an elevated papule, giving to the leg an appear-
ance of being covered by the tails of rats.

Eczema Pustulosum.

Synonym. — Grease.

Grrease is a disease resulting from inflammation of the sebaceous
glands of the skin in or about the heels.

The sores resulting from the attack always present a very unhealthy
appearance, and give rise to an offensive smelling discharge. If neglected,
they will assume an ulcerative character with deep raw and excessively
tender cracks; or the disease may in neglected and aggravated cases go
on still further, until granulations called " grapes " are formed, accom-
panied with much general swelling of the leg. Neglected grease not in-
frequently produces more or less permanent thickening of the skin, and
afterward a predisposition to a recurrence of the attack.

Any very sudden change from heat to cold, or from cold to heat, is
very likely to derange the function of the skin. Hence washing the
legs, especially with hot water and allowing them to dry by evaporation,
or neglecting to dry them after strong exercise, readily induce either
cracked heels or grease. "When flannel bandages are employed as a

168

VETERINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

means of drying the legs, care should be taken that they also cover the
heels.

The common practice of clipping the hair off the back part of the
fetlock and heels is another frequent cause. A moderate amount of hair
is needed as a protection to the skin against chill, cold, wet, dirt, and
sand, and also against excessive evaporation, especially in those breeds to
which such long hair is natural.

The disease is sometimes associated with febrile disturbance. In
some instances, swelling of the limb or limbs affected may precede the
eruption; whilst in others, the eruption precedes the swelling. The
hind limbs are more frequently affected than the fore ones. The dis-
charge is sometimes very profuse, and it is said that it is capable of in-

FiG. 78.

Fig. 79.
Different Stages of Grease.

Fig. 80.

ducing an eruption in cows and human beings similar to that of vari-
ola; on this account it has been termed equine lymph.

The discharge from the pustules and vesicles of grease irritates the
surface over which it flows ; and the skin of the heels — which in health
is peculiarly soft and pliable — becomes rigid; the natural sebaceous se-
cretion of its follicles is arrested, and, as a consequence, the movements
of the limb cause the skin to crack, and to become a mass of soreness,
ulceration, and fungus, accompanied by heat, pain, and lameness. When
the disease is of this type, it is very apt to assume a chronic character.

DISEASES OF THE SKIN.

169

The febrile symptoms, along with the heat, pain, and lameness, dimin-
ish; but the swelling still continues, and the skin is constantly moist
and greasy from the discharge, which is thick, foetid, and mats the hairs
together. Masses of fungoid granulations now appear, springing from
the unhealthy sores, consisting of hypertrophied papillse, covered over by
abnormal horny scales of epithelium, loosely attached to their surfaces.

Fig. 81.
Sarcoptes Hippopodus.

easily rubbed off, and exposing a highly-vascular sensitive surface be-
neath, which bleeds at the slightest touch. These excrescences are com-
monly called "grapes," and they belong to a class of skin diseases de-
scribed by dermatologists as "acne," or chronic inflammation of the
sebiparous glands, characterized by the eruption of hard, conical, and
isolated elevations, which sometimes suppurate on their summits, or
pour forth an inordinate quantity of secretion ; whilst in other cases

170 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

their action is torpid, the sebaceous matter is concreted into a solid
form, and distends the excretory duct and hair follicle even to the ori-
fice. Professor Hering has found in chronic grease large numbers of
acari, called Sarcopfes hippojjodiis, of which the accompanying woodcut
(Fig. 81) is an illustration.

Hering says of it that its body is twice as long as broad, beset all
over with hairs like satin; head retractile ; proboscis consisting of two
valves moving laterally; mouth directed rather downward; close to it
two smiill palpi ; eight feet, five-Jointed, the last joint as long as the
four preceding, with a small sucking disc at the end, and two small
hairs on each Joint. Two pairs of feet originate near the head, and two
posteriorly on the belly. On the abdomen a small prominence, and four
long, straight, plumose bristles ; their length O.IG, their breadth 0,08-
0.085 lines. Tiie three pairs of bristles on the back and those at the
abdomen can be raised like the tail of a peacock. The large bristles
are plumose ; the hairs on the Joints of the feet diminish in length to-
ward the extremity of the foot. Only the third Joint of the first -^air of
feet has a longer hair.

The presence of this parasite in chronic grease is accidental ; and
other diseases, such as canker, mallenders, and sallenders, are apt to be-
come complicated with a mange caused by this parasite. Gerlach desig-
nates this epizoon SymUotes equi, and says that the disease induced by
it may be called foot-mange; but it has nothing in common with canker,
or other known cutaneous eruption.

The swelling of the legs affected with grease, at first consisting of
material capable of reabsorption, becomes transformed, in neglected
cases, into a low form of fibrous tissue, constituting what is termed
elephantiasis; in some cases the affected limbs become enormously en-
larged from this cause.

Etiology. — The exciting causes of grease are, improper food, espe-
cially moist, inferior, and cooked food, clipping the hair of the heols and
legs, filth, and neglect.

Grease may also arise from a cut or bruise of the skin of the heel ;
but as a general rule it is then due to neglect of the wound rather than
to the original injury. Occasionally grease arises from a plethoric condi-
tion combined with want of i^roper exercise.

In some instances the best bred and best cared for horses are liable to
grease; but in them it scarcely ever assumes a chronic character, but par-

DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 171

takes more of an erythematons than of an eczematous nature. In race-
horses the process of sweating induces cracked heels ; the sweat, running
down the hollow of the heel, dries, and leaves the part impregnated with
its salts, which act as irritants to the skin.

Symptoms. — The first sign of grease is an unnecessary stamping of
the hind foot and an occasional rubbing of one leg by the other, caused
by an intolerable itching, followed generally by swelling of one or both
legs. Should the disease go on, a thick discharge will be found clinging
in drops to the hairs at the hollow of the heel, and the hairs will stand
out so that the skin will become visible. The heels feel hot and greasy.
The horse moves stiffly, and it gives him great pain to lift his leg or to
have it lifted. The swelling increases and the animal becomes more and
more painfully lame, and for fear of flexing his heels, straddles in his
walk in a most awkward manner. The heels become excessively sensitive.
If not checked by proper means the disease may run on to the ulcerative
stage, and finally excrescences like grapes may form. In this latter
stage, there is great tumidity of the leg and thickening of the skin.
The leg often becomes twice or thrice its natural size, and the hair falls
off. Sometimes in neglected cases maggots are found in the sore.

Grease is often an intractable disease, but if promptly taken in hand
is not always difficult to cure.

Treatment. — The parts affected, in simple cases of grease, will be
best treated by the application of a warm linseed meal poultice for two or
three days. To correct the odor, if any is present, add carbolic acid, 3 i.
or 3 ij., to the pint of poultice. The poultice should be changed twice
a day. The discharge should be cleared away with castile soap and tepid
water on each occasion, before the poultice is renewed. The hair must
be trimmed off as closely as possible.

When the bowels are irregular and the discharges foetid, doses of two
ounces of hyposulphite of sodium may be given in the drinking water.

To bring up the general condition of the animal, a change of diet
should be given. A bran mash, daily, carrots and easily digested food,
no oats. An ounce of saltpetre given in the drinking water daily is use-
ful. If the animal is full of habit and not weak, a purgative of aloes
will generally be of service. As soon as the physic has produced its ef-
fects, Williams recommends the administration of arsenic in the following
form :

172 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Arsenious acid 3 i.

Carbonate of potassium 3 i.

Water § xij.

Boil together slowly until the arsenic is fully dissolved, and strain when
cold. The dose for a horse is from half an ounce of this liquor two or
three times a day in his food or water.

Ointments should not be applied to the heels, because the dust and
dirt which they collect are apt to irritate the sores. In the acute stage,
an application of crude carbolic acid will be serviceable; wash the parts
afterward with castile soap and tepid water, and then wrap them with
bandages drawn snugly, but not too tight, wet with a lotion of:

Acetate of zinc gr. xxv.

Water 1 pint

and applied as soon after being wet with the solution of the salt as possi-
ble; renew twice or three times daily.

The solution of subacute of lead is preferred by some in place of the
zinc.

If the disease has been suffered to run on to the ulcerative stage, the
sores may be washed with a solution of nitrate of silver, until a healthy
action is established. If, however, grapes have formed, the excrescences
will need to be cut off. The plan recommended by "Williams is generally
considered the best, and is as follows:

Two blacksmiths' fire-shovels are the best instruments; one to be
made sharp at its edge, and heated to a red heat, to remove the excres-
cences; the other kept cold, and placed between the skin and hot shovel,
to prevent undue burning. Many of these excrescences may be thus re-
moved in a few minutes; whereas, if they are destroyed by caustics, such
as the sulphate of zinc, corrosive sublimate, or the strong acids, the de-
struction must be effected by slow degrees, or deep and extensive slough -
ings of the skin and subcutaneous tissue may occur. When, however,
the grapes are few in number, their points may be carefully dressed with
the sulphate of zinc or corrosive sublimate, care being taken that the
applications be not too extensive.

Chronic eczema, when expressed by an eruption other than that of
grease, requires a specialty of treatment applicable to itself.

1st. The crusts and scabs, after being soaked with oil for a few hours,

DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 173

are to be removed by washing; if the hair is long it must be clipped, and
this applies to the greasy as well as to the other forms of eczema. When
the hair is removed and the parts thoroughly cleaned, a sufficiency of the
following may be applied, not only to the diseased, but to a good deal
of healthy skin; remembering that whatever the remedy be, much de-
pends upon its effectual application:

Flowers of sulphur ^ viij.

Carbonate of potassium § iv.

Carbolic acid ^ i.

Lard | xxxij.

Olive oil 5 xxxij.

This is to be left on the skin for two or three days, and then washed
off with soft soap and warm water. It acts as a cutaneous stimulant.

The other remedies available in chronic eczema are lime water, bi-
chloride of mercury in weak solution, tar ointment, and mercurial oint-
ment.

The following, which is only a form of the common purgative ball, is
highly recommended to be given twice a week during the continuance of
the disease, and even for a time after the necessity seems past:

Powdered aloes 3 ij.

Powdered resin , 3 iij.

Powdered nitre 3 iij.

Powdered ginger 3 ij.

Castile soap 3 ij.

Work up into one ball.

PSORIASIS.

Synonyms.— Mallenders ; Sallenders.

Definition.— When this disease appears on the back of the hock, it
is called mallenders (Fig. 83); when upon the inside of the joint, sallen-
ders (Fig. 82). A chronic, non-contagious inflammation of the skin
occurring in patches and covered by epithelial scales. An intractable
disease.

Etiology. — Psoriasis, as it first appears, resembles an eczematous

174

VETERINARY MEDICUSTE AND SURGEBY.

eruption, but after a time becomes chronic and dry. Scales take the
place of the discharge. It is considered by some as hereditary.

Treatment. — Is generally of little avail. To prevent the formation of
the cracks and chasms, the scales should be dressed occasionally with
some oily material; and when they become much thickened by accumu-
lation, they are to be well soaked in an alkaline solution, carefuLy

washed off, and the raw skin thus exposed, touched with tne nitrate of
silver, then covered with tar, or, what is much better, Kennedy's Pinus
canadensis. An occasional application of the mercurial ointment is also
useful.

To be administered internally. Fowler's solutions of arsenic, in doses
of one ounce daily, is recommended.

■"%^ ,' ii^

■?

EXPLANATION OF PLATE II.

CURB AND SPAVIN. (Percivall.)

Fig. 1. Curb. In this posterior view of the hind leg, from the point of
the hock to about one-third of the length of the cannon downwards,
is displayed a curb, in its ordinary chronic and permanent state, slit
open and dissected so as to develop its anatomy.
The subcutaneous cellular fascia, including the annular ligament {a a)
is dissected o£E and pinned back, in order to bring into view the
sheath of the flexor tendons in the thickened and callous condition
(b h) in which it is found in — which, indeed, constitutes the essence
of — chronic or prominent curb. The sheath has had a longitudinal
division made of it, and the divisions {b, h) separated, with the
view of better showing the augmentation of substance it has under-
gone, the consequence of disease originating in sprain. This division
and separation has brought into view also the bursal cavity through
which (the same as in the fore leg) the perforans tendon {c) plays,
in action. This is the cavity which is distended with fluid in
recent, and in some instance has been found so in chronic, curb.

(fZ) The posterior side of the point of the hock.

(e) The lower (sawn) end of the metatarsal bone.

Fig. 2. Represents a spavin of unusually large size, and more prominent
and better defined than such tumors in general are.
a, The os calcis.
h, The large metatarsal or cannon bone.

c, The small metatarsal or splent bone.

d, The astragalus.

e, g, The limits, superiorly and inferiorly, of the spavin tumor; whose
surface exhibits a knobby irregularity, and whose substance is osseo-
cartilaginous.

/, Part of the periosteal membrane, in which the tumor is encased,

dissected off.
p, A piece of whalebone inserted into the joint between the two flat

cuneiform bones.

EXPLANATION OF PLATE II. — CONTINUED.

/, h, 0, A line drawn from /to h, representing the basis of a triangle
whose apex is at o, will include the osseo-cartilaginous deposit,
spreading from, the spavin tumor at the side, upon the fore part of
the cannon bone, where ib is partly covered by the tendon of the
flexor metatarsi, which is seen (at h) detached and turned down.

r, The inner division of the bice2}S tendon of the flexor metatarsi,
divided and dissected, in its course to be inserted into the head of
the inner small metatarsal bone, which is buried deep in the sub-
stance of the tumor.

I, The slender tendon of the flexor accessor ius, hanging down out of
its sheath.

m. The tendon of the flexor pedis.

n, The tendon of the flexor suffraginis.

Fig. 3. The same spavin, after having been subjected to maceration.

a, Os calcis.

b, Large metatarsal or hind cannon bone.

c, Small metatarsal or hind splent bone.

d, Astragalus.

e, The superior eminence of the ossification constituting the veritable
bone spavin, now, after maceration, having a rugged aspect, and
standing out in rocky prominences, in consequence of having be-
come deprived of its nidus or bed of fibro-cartilage.

g, The inferior extent of ossification, spreading down for some distance
upon the cannon bone.

f, f. The most prominent or perceptible parts of the spavin tumor
during life.

h, The large cuneiform bone coated with osseous matter, of the same
porous nature as the tumor itself is composed of, from which, in
fact, it is an extension.

I, The middle cuneiform bone, underneath the former, coated after
the same manner, and equally involved in the bone spavin disease.

m, n, The osseous deposition, after completely burying the inner
cuneiform bone, as well as the head of the inner small metatarsal
bone, spreads in an outward and downward direction, and covers
the major 2^art of the superior-anterior portion, or head and neck
of the large metatarsal bone; so that there is, in point of fact, nearly
as much bone spavin in front us in the usual place upon the side of
the hock and cannon.

OHAPTEE IX.

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS.

Spavin, Bone Spavin, Varix, Bog Spavin, Blood Spavin, Broken Knees, Curb,
Sprung Hock, Capped Hock, Capped Elbow, Thorough-Pin, Splint, Sore Shins,
Ring Bone, Stiff Joint, Anchylosis, Open Joint, Windgalls, Brushing, Inter-
fering, Speedy Cut, Shoulder Slip, Sprain of the Flexor Brachii, Sprain of
the Back Sinews, Stifle Joint Lameness, Sprain of the Fetlock Joint, Sprain of
of the Suspensory Ligament, Stocking, Swelled Legs, CEdema of the Legs,
Lymphangitis, Weed, Inflammatory CEdema, Elephantiasis.

SPAVIN,
(see plate II.)

Synonym, — Bone spavin.

Definition. — Spavin is an exostosis in the region of the hock. (See
Fig. 84.) It is usually found to involve two or more of the weight-
bearing bones. It generally appears on the inner side of the hock, rarely
on the outer side. Bog spavin, though somewhat similar in name, and
also occurring in the hock, has no connection with this disease.

Spavins, which Avhen fully formed do not cause lameness, should
never be subjected to active treatment. Treatment in such cases, in-
stead of being advantageous, is very likely to renew the inflammation,
which may perhaps produce further growth of bone and eventually
lameness.

A spavin, when once fully formed, cannot be removed by any reme-
dial agents, though, in common with all abnormal growths, exostosis
generally becomes less as age advances.

Etiology. — The common causes are undue concussion, pressure.

176 VBTEEIKAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

sprain, the wearing of shoes witli too high heel calks, which gives rise
to inflammation in either the cuneiform bones of the hock, or the tissues
in their immediate neigliborhood.

As a general rule, exostoses on the exterior of the bones arise from
sprains of the ligaments of the hock, whilst the more common ones
between the bones are produced by pressure and concussion.

Percivall says: *•' I am very much disposed to believe in the exist-
ence in the system of what I would call an ossific diathesis. I have most
assuredly seen unbroke colts so prone in their economy to the production
of bone, that, without any assignable outward cause — without recogniza-
ble injury of any kind — they have at a very early age exhibited ring-

FiG. 84.
Bone Spavin.

bones, and splints, and spavins. There might have been something
peculiar in the construction of their limbs to account for this; at the
same time there appeared a more than ordinary propensity in their
vascular system to osseous effusion. Growing young horses — and par-
ticularly such as are what is called ' overgrown ' — may be said to be
predisposed to spavin, simply from the circumstance of the weakness
manifest in their hocks, as well as other joints. When horses whose
frames have outgrown their strength, with their long and tender limbs,
come to be broke — to have weight placed upon their backs at a time
when the weight of their own bodies is as much as they are able to bear
— then it is that the joints in an especial degree are likely to suffer, and
wind-gall and spavin to be the result. Indeed, under such circum-
stances, spavin, like splint and other transformations of soft and elastic
tissue into bone, may be regarded as nature's means of fortification
against more serious failures."

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS. 177

It is generally conceded that hereditary influence has much to do
with the production of spavin.

Symptoms. — During the formation of the exostosis, some degree of
abnormal heat and tenderness on pressure may be detected, but usually
the disease first makes its presence known by the jDrominence of the bony
growth, which destroys the symmetry of the hock. In well-developed
cases, the lameness arising from sprain causes the toe to be dragged
along the ground instead of being properly raised.

In slighter cases, some stiffness of the hock and an occasional trip-
ping of the toe may be noticed; also a sort of vibration in the hock,
when the toe comes to the ground. These peculiarities will be most
observable if the horse is trotted on hard, smooth ground. The animal
should be especially vv^atched while turning, when a certain degree of
flinching will be detected. Exercise even for a few minutes greatly
diminishes the symjotoms; but when the horse, after exercise, is allowed
to stand till cool, the stiffness will recur, probably in an increased degree.

In the stable, a horse, though only very slightly lame from spavin,
will often drop very much as the weight comes on the diseased leg, when
made to move to one side in the stall. In bad cases, in a state of rest,
the animal usually keeps the leg flexed.

If the horse is worked during the formation of a spavin, the inflam-
mation will greatly increase, and an enormous deposit of bone may be
the result.

In the examination for spavin, it is necessary, in the first place, to
compare the hocks with each other. Any difference in size is very sus-
picious, especially in the adult horse. A hock, however, which may at
first sight appear large on the inside, .may on closer examination prove
to be exactly similar to the other; and, if so, tlie formation must be re-
garded as natural, and generally is sound. It is true that there may be
sjxivins in both hocks; but it is very rarely, if ever, found that the two
abnormal growths are exactly similar. In long, coarse-coated horses, the
hock should be damped before examination, so as to make the hair lie
smooth.

Allowance must be made in certain horses for the shape and promi-
nences of the bones at the inner and posterior half of the hock. In
sickle-hocked horses, for instance, there is often an apparent, but
natural, enlargement of the bones at the inner and posterior part of the

hock, which is often mistaken for spavin. In other horses, there maybe
12

178

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY

an abnormal prominence of particnlar bones in both hocks which, if
exactly similar, must be regarded as natural.

The examiner should first stand in front and view the hock, as seen
by looking between the fore-legs. Any enlargement on the inside,
especially on the anterior part, will be well seen from this point. Next
he should shift his position a few jiaces to the side, so as to catch a
somewhat side-view of the inner front of the structure. In this position
any enlargement in front will be easily detected. He should next view
the hock from behind, looking between the legs. Any enlargement on
the posterior part of the inner side will then be apparent. Lastly, he

Fig. 85.
Showing seat of boue-spavin, a shallow grove being left in the bony deposit for the passage of
the oblique tendon of the flexor metatarsi, under which the spavin is situated.

should move about a couple of paces to the side, and he will notice any
undue angularity about the interior edge of the hock.

No enlargement, however, although situated at the precise location of
this disease, can safely be said to be spavin, until by manipulation it has
been ascertained to be bone. Without such manipulation, other enlarge-
ments, such as a distended vein or a thickening of the integuments re-
sulting from a blow, may be mistaken for spavin.

DISEASES AJMD INJURIES OF THE LEGS. 179

In many cases, however, as has been explained above, there is little or
no external enlargement, and we can only infer the existence of a spavin
by the peculiarity of the lameness or by abnormal heat about the part.
In examining a horse suspected of occult spavin, it is a good plan to lift
the hind leg and forcibly flex it up to the thigh several times. After
this the horse should be trotted slowly, when, if he has a sjaavin, he will
probably show lameness.

The action, the true and perfect flexion or otherwise of the hock, and
the level carriage or otherwise of the hips, should be most carefully ob-
served. The action in many of the worst cases of spavin, namely those
between the bones, often affords the only indication of the disease.

Treatment. — If incipient spavin be suspected, rest is the great essen-
tial. Either cold applications or fomentations are useful in reducing the
inflammatory action, and application of tincture of iodine may be made
with advantage.

One should not be over-alarmed or tempted too readily into the adop-
tion of active treatment by a horse going lame during the formation of
a spavin. Lameness usually occurs and it probably arises, not from in-
terference, by the exostosis, with the bending motion, but simply from
the pressure of the new deposit on the inflamed periosteum covering the
bone. The pain, and with it the lameness, usually abates as soon as the
periosteum has enlarged and accommodated itself to the exostosis; and
generally disappears altogether when, by rest and other appropriate
treatment, the inflammation is allayed, and the newly formed deposit has
consolidated into bone.

In young horses, especially, a lengthened period of rest without any
very active measures is always well worthy of a trial. Their bones and
ligaments are weak, and their whole frame is often unequal to the work
demanded of them; and in very many cases nothing more than time and
the gradual increase of strength resulting from age, good feeding, and
carefully regulated exercise are needed to give strength and stability to
the weaker structures of the frame. Yet, though rest is essential, some
slight exercise, such as that which a horse will give himself in a loose
box, is beneficial, lest the parts should become stiffened by disuse, as well
as from the deposit of bone.

If the inflammatory action does not subside after a time under the
above simple treatment, and the horse still continues lame, it will be
necessary to have recourse to other remedial agents, such as a blister of:

180 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Mercurial ointment 3 i j.

Oil of cantharides 3 iv.

Or, if preferred, a seton may be inserted under the skin, entering a cou-
ple of inches above the prominence and coming out an inch or so below
it. It should be smeared with some blistering ointment, as:

Powdered cantharides 3 i.

Lard ! i.

Firing is considered by some the most efficacious remedy; and, if properly
performed, will not leave bad scars — care being taken not to extend the
lines to the front of the joint.

As soon as the process of deposition is completed, whether on the one
hand by hastening its full formation, or on the other by checking and
limiting the action — the inflammation and pain which accompanied the
formation of the exostosis will disappear. The horse will then be lame
or sound, according to the position and amount of the new deposit.
Commonly the lameness exists only during the formation of the spavin.
From two to four months may be required in the treatment.

Unnerving has been recommended for lameness arising from sjoavin
with a view to destroy sensation. The ojDeration, however, is useless, be-
cause the nerve which supplies the anterior portion of the hock is so
situated that it cannot be reached and divided. It may perhajos be said
that the nerve might be cut higher up; but at that point it is too near
the muscle which works the tendon.

In the fore-leg, where the operation of unnerving is sometimes applied
in navicular disease, the position of the nerve and muscle is different.

BOG SPAVIN.

Synonym. — Varix.

Definition. — Bog spavin is a distention of the capsular ligament of
the true hock joint. The only bones which enter into the formation of
this joint are the tibia and astragalus. The swelling, which is tense, and
fluctuating, shows itself primarily in front, because in that part the cap-
sule is large and loose (Fig, 86). It is accompanied by heat and pain.

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS.

181

It is always a defect and may become a serious blemish. It commonly
occurs in weak hocks, because in them any over-exertion is likely to be
injurious.

Treatment. — The swelling should never be punctured, and the
treatment must be directed chiefly toward reducing its size and allaying

pain.

A sweating bandage, that is, a wet bandage covered with oiled silk.

or rubber cloth, and this again covered with an ordinary flannel bandage,
often acts very favorably in reducing the enlargement. An India-rubber
bandage with a hole in it, through Avhich the point of the hock may pro-
ject, is most convenient, and serves an excellent purpose. It is well to
rub the swelhng carefully, but firmly and thoroughly for some time before
applying the bandage.

If these measures fail, resort to the following stimulating ointment,
together Avith rubbing:

Biniodide of mercury § ss.

Lard § viij.

Possibly a blister or a succession of blisters may be temporarily beneficial,
but, as a general rule, no permanent benefit results from such practice.
If the case is of recent origin, the milder measures will probably remove,
temporarily at least, the enlargement; Avhilst if it is chronic, even severe
measures will fail to affect it. In fact, in chronic cases, the greater part
the enlargement generally consists of thickened integument and of orga-
nized deposits in the synovial capsule, which cannot be removed.

As a general rule, it is best not to apply treatment to such

182 VETERINABY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

lesions. They seldom produce severe or permanent lameness. When
they do, or at least are supposed to do so, the cause of the lameness is
generally sprain of the ligaments or tendons or of their sheaths, and the
external enlargement is only a result. In some cases, however, the en-
largement becomes of so great a size as to be a serious blemish, or even
to incapacitate the horse for fast work.

Occasionally in recent cases, arising from severe sprain, we find the
bursa or sheath evidently full of synovia, whilst its walls from distention
have become very thin. This is especially apt to be the case in the hock.
Such cases must be treated as sprains.

BLOOD SPAVIN.

Deflilition. — Blood spavin is a distention of the veins in the vicinity
of the hock.

Etiology. — Pressure of the swelling in bog spavin impeding the flow
of the blood.

Treatment. — There is no direct remedy, but any treatment which
lessens the bog spavin will decrease the tendency to retardation in the up-
ward flow of the blood. No great harm results from the dilatation of the
vein. The greater part of the swelling is always due to the bursal en-
largement, not to the vein.

BROKEN KNEES.

Defiaition. — Broken knees are injuries to the knees which may be a
simple scratch or cut or so serious as to include fracture of the bones.

Etiology. — Always due to violence of some kind, usually a fall; bad
shoeing will sometimes create a tendency to stumble.

Treatment. — If the shin is simpty l)ruised, the hair scraped off, and
a little blood oozing from the surface of the skin, a dressing of Kennedy's
Pin us canadensis or of white lotion:

Sulphate of zinc.

Acetate of lead .aa 3 ij.

Water ,1 pint

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS.

183

will probably heal it up and the hair will soon grow upon it again. If a
horse has a habit of stumbling, there will come a thickening on his knees
which will be noticeable even although the hair may cover them perfectly.
If the contusion is great, with but little superficial injury, it may bo nec-

FiG. 87.— Back View of Lfte
Knee Joint, seen oblique-
ly FROM Right, and show-
ing THE DEEP-SEATEL) LIGA-
MENTS.

A. Inferior third of radius.
U. Pisiform bone.

C. External small metacarpal

bone.

D. Internal small metacarpal

bone.

1. External lateral ligament.

2. 3. Scapho-metacarpal lig-

ament.

4. Radio-lunar ligament.

5. Ligament between the pi-

siform, unciform, and
external small metacar-
pal bone.

Fig. 88.— Back View of Right
Knee Joint, showing the
Superficial Ligamets.

A. Inferior third of radius.

B. Superior third of large

metacarpal bone.

C. Internal small metacarpal

bone.

External small metacar-
pal bone.

Internal lateral ligament.

External lateral ligament.

Ligament between the ra-
dius, lunar, and pisi-
form bones.

Ligament between the
unciform, pisiform, and
between the external
small metacarpal bones.

Strong band of ligament-
ous fibres, binding down
the flexor tendons in
their sheath or groove.

7. Groove for the passage
of the perforans and
perforatus tendons.

4. 5.

Fig. 89.— Anterior View of
the Left Knee Joint

A. Inferior third of the ra-

dius.

B. Cuneiform bone.

C. Lunar hone.

D. Scaphoid bone.

E. Unciform bone.
G. The great bone.
H. Trapezoid bone.

K, Superior third of meta-
carpus.

1. Scapho-radial ligament.

2. External lateral ligament.

3. 3. Internal lateral liga-

ment.

4. 4. Ligaments existing be-

tween upper row of
carpal bones.

5. 5. Carpo-metacarpal liga-

ment.

essary to tie up the animal's head so that he cannot lie down for a day
or two. Repeated fomentations with the lotion above recommended will,
however, be sufficient active treatment.

Ig4; VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Whe7i the skin is cut, first thoroughly wash the cut to remove all dirt
and foreign substances, clip away the hair about it, and bringing the
edges together, fasten them by adhesive plaster, or by tow dipped in
styptic collodion, or shellac paste; never try sutures of any kind, they
would surely pull out when the limb was flexed. Put a light muslin
bandao^e around the knee and tie up the horse's head, so that he cannot
lie down for a few days. If the leg swells, remove the bandage and fo-
ment with the white lotion, adding one per cent of carbolic acid if any
suppuration shows itself.

If there is much laceration, with perhaps a discharge of synovia from
the wound, the resulting inflammation may sometimes be very great, and
the swelling considerable, extending as high as the elbow-joint, and as
low as the foot; the whole limb being infiltrated with effusion and exu-
dation. The carpal joint becomes greatly enlarged by a fibrinous deposit,
which surrounds it, and the synovial discharge very profuse. Generally,
with proper treatment, such cases recover, if the tendon be not crushed.

If the tendon has teen crushed, although neither lacerated nor divided
in any way, it may slough in the course of four or five days, its vitality
having been destroyed. This sloughing of the tendon is attended with
severe symptoms, and is a source of great danger to the animal's life.
The sympathetic fever becomes very high; the respirations and pulse
quickened; the bowels constipated; the urinary and other secretions ar-
rested; both the wound and tendon assume a dusky livid or leaden hue;
the discharge becomes foetid, sanious, mixed Avith blood, and the lame-
ness excessive. When the slough is removed, the carpal articulations are
exposed to view; the bones are inflamed, and of a red hue. The power
of extension is now lost by the separation of the tendon from its attach-
ment, and the limb is persistently flexed. If an attempt be made to ex-
tend it forcibly, great pain is inflicted.

The treatment of such cases, whether the division of the tendon be
immediate or not, is a matter of anxiety to the veterinary surgeon, and
except when the patient is a valuable stud animal, it is better to destroy
it, for even if a cure is effected, the articulation will be anchylosed; and
a horse with an anchylosed knee is of little use.

In the treatment of open bursa, or even when the skin only is divided,
it is always advisable to apply an immovable splint for the jnirpose of
preventing motion, and to prevent a horse from accidentally striking the
wounded knee against the manger, to turn him round in the stable, and

DISEASES AND INJDKIES OF THE LEGS.

185

supply him with food by means of a bag suspended from the stall-posts;
the slings in the graver lesions playing a most essential part.

In some rare instances the wound in the skin and tendon is situated
at the inferior part of the knee, over the articulations of the lower row
of cai'pal bones and the metacarpals. A wound in this part, although
penetrating deeply and opening into the joint, is not nearly so dangerous
as one over the articulation between the two rows: for there is but little
motion, the succeeding inflammation is not nearly so great, nor the super-
vening anchylosis so important.

When the accident has been sufficiently severe to fracture one or
more bones of the knee, the animal should be destroyed.

CUEB.
(see plate II.)

Definition. — Inflammation of the calcaneo-cuboid ligament, accom-
panied by a hard and painful swelling at the back of the hock. (Fig. 91.)

FiQ. 90.
Seat of curb shown at A.

Fig. 91.
External appearance of curb.

Etiology. — A sprain of the calcaneo-cuboid ligament.

Symptoms. — In the earliest stages, curb shows itself as a small hard

186

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

lump upon the lower part of the back of the hock, Avliich may easily
be mistaken for bone. (Fig. 91.) As the disease progresses, this nodule
increases in size, and lameness appears, sometimes, and particularly in
young horses, of a severe character.

Treatment. — Rest. Apply a high-heeled shoe, and to stimulate ab-

FiG. 93. Fig. 93.

Bones of the hock joint. The hock and its lesions.

1. Astragalus. A. Seat of thorough-pin.

2. Cuneiform magnum. B. Capped hock.

3. Cuneiform medium. C. Curb.

4. Cuneiform parvum.

5. Cuboid.

6. Os calcis.

7. Tibia.

8. Great metatarsal, or cannon or shank

bone.

9. Inner small metatarsal.

sorption of the excrescence, apply repeatedly a blister of biniodide of
mercury:

Biniodide of mercury 31.

Lard 5 viij.

Firing may be tried if the lameness is persistent and the inflammation
has subsided.

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS. 187

SPRING HOCK.

Definition. — An inflamed condition of the ligaments of the hock
bones.

Etiology. — A violent strain generally affecting all the ligaments.

Symptoms. — Sudden and great swelling both above and below the
hock, though not so much on the hock itself. This is accompanied by
heat and extreme lameness.

Treatment. — Put the animal in slings at once, as it will not volun-
tarily lie down. A dose of physic:

Aloes 3 vi.

Gentian 3 ij.

Foment the swelling several times daily with hot water in which a
little laudanum has been mixed, to relieve pain and to reduce the swell-
ing:

Laudanum § ij.

Water 1 quart.

After the inflammation has subsided, the biniodide of mercury oint-
ment may be smeared on the hock:

Biniodide of mercury 1 i.

Lard § viij.

CAPPED HOCK.

Definition. — Synovial capjjcd hooh is a firm, fluctuating swelling on
both sides of the point of the hock, causing lameness and sometimes de-
cay of the top of the os calcis.

Serous ccvp'ped liooh is a serous abscess in the areolar tissue between
the gastrocnemius internus tendon and the skin (Figs. 93 and 94), and
is generally caused by striking the point of the hock against some hard
object, as in kicking.

Treatment. — Apply cooling lotions, as:

188 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Chloride of ammonium in powder,

Nitrate of potassium in powder aa § iiss.

Water 1 pint.

As soon as dissolved, dip cloths iu the solution and apply to the in-
flamed part.

Applications of hot water are sometimes sufficient to reduce the
swelling.

Fig. 94.

Capped hock.

Serous capped hock may be treated after reduction of the inflam-
mation by blistering with biniodide of mercury, orbypyropuncture, which
is best performed with Professor Williams' instrument, Fig. 22; heat it to
redness only, and force the points through the skin and into the bursa,
but not to the bone.

Synovial capped hock may have a seton run through it, and kept in
not longer than two weeks.

The cyst sometimes becomes consolidated, either from the treatment
employed for its removal, or from some other cause. The repeated ap-
plication of iodine, or its combination with mercury, will often reduce it
very considerably.

Iodine gr. v.

Iodide of potassium 3 i.

Water § vi.

In some cases a strong application, such as one drachm of the biniodide of
mercury to the ounce of lard, will answer; in others a frequent applica-
tion of a milder preparation will do best. The following is recom-
mended:

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS. 189

Biniodide of mercury 3 i.

Water 3 xij.

Iodide of potassium, suflficient to dissolve the biniodide.

This is to be applied once or twice a day until slight soreness is pro-
duced, and reapplied when the soreness disappears. If possible, the
horse should be turned out to grass, or kept in a thickly bedded box dur-
ing treatment.

CAPPED ELBOW.

Definition. — Is a serous abscess or soft tumor, formed by an effusion
of serum into the areola of the connective tissue of the elbow.

Etiology. — These unsightly tumors are caused by the horse lying
upon the heels of his shoes which will usually be found to be longer
than they should be.

Fig. 95.
'Capped elbow.

Symptoms. — The only sign of this deformity is that afforded by the
swelling of the tumor itself, (Fig. 95 .)

Treatment. — First see to it that the shoes are properly made, and
then tie up the foot which causes the trouble, every night in old cloths.

The best mode of removing the tumor is by puncture; the cavity after-
wards should be injected with a solution of:

190 VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Sulphate of zinc gr. x.

Water ^i.

or of:

Tincture of iodine gr. v.

Iodide of potassium 3 i.

Water 1 vi.

and the orifice of puncture kept open until the cavity of the cyst has be-
come obliterated. Another plan is to excite the suppurative action in it
after it has been punctured, by injecting a stimulating mixture:

Solution of acetate of ammonium § i.

Olive oil § ij.

or by inserting a seton through its centre. It is useless to puncture and
allow the wound to close immediately, for the walls of the sac have ac-
quired secreting properties, and continue to pour out the serosity, which
will speedily fill the cavity of the cyst. It is therefore necessary to keep
the puncture open until the walls of the sac have become adherent to
each other, and its cavity destroyed.

"When the cyst has become consolidated by the causes already given, it
will often be found that a little suppuration occurs in the centre of the
tumor; but it is never very extensive, and the suppurated spot is sur-
rounded by a thick wall of condensed fibrous tissue of a grayish appear-
ance.

There are two ways of removing the tumor when in this condition —
by excision, and by sloughing it with caustics; the latter being consid-
ered the best, provided it is carefully done. Puncture the tumor in two
or three places, and insert into each puncture a very small quantity of
finely powdered corrosive sublimate and arsenic, in equal parts, rolled up
in a small piece of tissue paper. The effect of this is twofold: — (Is^.)
It destroys the vitality of the tissue which it touches; and {2d.) Excites
absorption throughout the whole extent of the tumor. The absorption
first excited in the living structures in immediate contact with those de-
stroyed by the agent, whereby a line of demarcation is formed between
the living and dead tissue, becomes general throughout the tumor, and
in a few days it will be seen that it has diminished in volume in every
direction. After the sloughs caused by the caustics have been removed.

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS.

191

tlie parts should be kept clean for a few days, at the end of which it may
be necessary to reapply the caustic.

If excision with the knife be preferred, the oj)erator must make his
incision in the perpendicular direction only, as a crucial incision leaves an
ugly blemish. Two incisions parallel to each other may be required in
very large tumors, and about an inch apart, in order to remove a portion
of the skin which, if left, would be an ugly blemish.

THOROUGH-PINS.

Definition. — Thorough-pin is the name given to a bursal enlargement
which occurs at the upper and back part of the hock beneath the great
extensor pedis tendon. The swelling appears sometimes on one side only,
but more frequently on both sides. (Fig. 96.) (See also Fig. 93.)

Fig. 96.
Thoroiigh-pin.

Etiology. — Overwork, sprain, faulty conformation, or chronic inflam-
mation of the joints may be set down as a usual cause; yet they sometimes
occur without any such violent exciting causes, and can then only be
attributed to either a special irritability of the synovial membrane, on
account of which it is excited to increased action on very slight provocation,
or to weakness of the coats of the blood-vessels of the membrane, through
which an undue effusion takes place.

Chronic inflammation of the joints, which is often found as a result
of pneumonia, influenza, and sometimes of general debility, is another
common cause.

192 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

There are two kinds of thorough-pin, namely, those arising from
irritation in the true hock joint, and those which are caused by irritation
or sprains of the flexor pedis tendon.

Thorough-pin arising from iritation of the true hock joint is in fact
only a further development of bog spavin. The increased secretion of
synovia, for reasons already given, shows itself primarily in distention of
the lower part of the bursa. When this portion is full, any further
increase shows itself in the upper part. The swelling appears equally on
both sides, and the fluid may by moderate pressure be forced from one side
to the other. Hence is derived the name thorough-pin or running
'' through " from side to side.

The other and more common description of thorough-pin is not con-
nected with the true hock joint; but arises from irritation of the per-
forans muscle of the tendon flexor pedis.

This tendon is tightly bound down at its upper part by the ligaments
at the back of the tibia and again below as soon as it reaches the inside
of the hock. Hence any increased secretion of synovia can only lodge in
the intervening space, i. e., in the hollow of the hock, either on one or
both sides.

If the seat of the injury be high up (and it generally does occur, as
we might expect, near the bend) we find the enlargement on both sides;
but that on the outside is generally larger than that on the inside. If
on the other hand the seat of the injury is lower down, the swelling may,
on account of the position of the part of the tendon injured, appear only
on the inside; but it more often appears on both sides or on the outer
side only.

Thorough-pins arising from irritation of the flexor pedis tendon are
at once distinguished from those described in the preceding paragraph,
because there is no lower enlargement or bog spavin. It is, however,
very joossible that both kinds of thorough-pin and bog spavin may be
present in the same hock.

Bog spavins and thorough-pins vary very much in size according to
the nature and degree of the particular case. They may be so small as
to be scarcely perceptible, or they may be of enormous size.

Treatment. — The most active method is to puncture the sac at the
lowest part and allow the fluid to run off; keep the puncture open several
days and inject it with a mild solution of sulphate of zin^:

DISEASES AKD INJURIES OF THE LEGS, 193

Sulphate of zinc 1 ss.

Water 1 pint

Apply a truss. Fig. 97, so constructed as to press firmly on both sides of the
hock, so that the sides of the sac may be brought together and united.

Fig. 97.
Truss for treatment of thorough-pin.

If during the treatment the parts become hot and tender, discontinue the
treatment and apply cold until the inflammation subsides.

SPLINT.

Definition. — Splint is an exostosis or deposit of bone either between
one or other of the small bones and the shank, or upon any of the three
bones of the fore-legs.

As the greatest strain and concussion always fall on the inside on ac-
count of its being more under the centre of gravity of the superincumbent
13

194

VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND SUKGEKY.

weight, the exostosis generally develojDS on or towards the inner side,
and usually a little above the centre of the bone between the knee and
the fetlock.

Percivall describes five classes of splints :

1st. Simple.

■^-^

Fig. 98.

Ordinary form of splint on the inner side
of the fore-leg. a, Intermetacarpal groove,
smooth and healthy. 6, b, Osseous deposit,
c. Irregular bony growths.
A comparison of Figs. 98 and 99 with Figs. 100 and 101 will show the changes in the bone in splint.

Compound splint. a, Intermetacarpal
groove, healthy. 6, h, Osseous deposits,
c, c, c, Irregular bony growths.

2d. Double or pegged sj)lints; that is, those which are found upon
both aspects of the limb, with an osseous communicating bar running
from one to the other.

3d. Those close to the knee.

4th. Consisting of two or more exostoses upon one side of the leg, one
above the other, with perhaps an osseous communication.

5th. Little bony excrescences, involving the knee-joint, namely, the
head of the metacarpus minor internus, and trapezoid, or metacarpus
minor externus, and unciform.

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS.

195

A simple splint, when not causing lameness, and in a position removed
from either articulation or tendon, is said by Williams not to be looked
upon as an unsoundness, but all the other forms must be classified as
causes of unsoundness, as they are at any time liable to cause lameness
and are indicative of more disease than is apparent either to the eye or

FiQ. 100.

Inner side view of the bones of the
fore-leg in healthy condition.

1. Great metacarpal, or cannon bone.

2. Inner small metacarpal or splint
bone.

3. Outer small metacarpal.

4. Sesamoid bones.

5. Os suffraginis, or pastern bone.

Fig. 101.

1. Great metacarpal bone.

2. Outer small metacarpal bone.

3. Inner small metacarpal.

4. Sesamoid bones.

touch of the examiner; disease involving articulating surfaces, ligamentous
structures, or interfering with the movement of a tendon.

Splints fully consolidated to do not, as a rule, cause lameness, nor do
they affect the gait in an ajipreciable degree.

Etiology. — Although the immediate causes of splint are irritation

196 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

and inflammation in the parts affected, yet the occurrence of these causes
in any particular horse and at any particular time is mainly dependent on
the conformation of the leg, on the work to which the animal is sub-
I jected, on the weight he has to carry, and on his age.

Highbred horses and those which are considered roadsters ?re most
liable to splint. Heavy animals and those which are not called upon for
fast work are not commonly troubled with them.

But no cause of splint is perhaps more common than the ordinary
practice of subjecting young horses to work for which their young bones,
ligaments, and tendons are unequal.

Horses at an early age may no doubt do a certain amount of work,
and perhaps may be none the worse for it; but the work demanded of
them is often in excess of the age and capability of the animal. It is
mainly from this cause that so many horses whose make and shape are
unexceptionable are affected with splints.

The exostosis arising from these and such like causes usually appears
about midway between the knee and the fetlock, because the middle is
the weakest part in long bones.

• Although some defect in conformation, or some excess of work re-
latively to age and structure are the ordinary causes of splint, yet in some
cases the growth can be traced to no other causes than an hereditary
predisposition. In such animals we generally find spavins and other
exostoses concurrently with splint.

Symptoms. — Large splints are easily enough both seen and felt, but
the detection of an incipient or very small splint is often a difficult mat-
ter.

The signs of splint are lameness accompanied with pain on the ap-
plication of pressure to the seat of the disease, also heat and throbbing of
the arteries of the part, and a marked increase in the lameness at the trot
over that exhibited at a walk. The lameness j^roduced by an incipient
splint is often excessive. In many cases, however, the animal goes sound
at a walk, though very lame at a trot. In cases of doubt, the horse should
be trotted down hill on hard ground, Avhen the increased concussion will
cause him to favor the lame leg.

The lameness arising from splint is further distinguished by a very
marked dropping of the head when the sound leg comes to the ground,
and a corresponding jerking up of the head when the lame leg is brought
down.

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS. 197

In feeling for splint, the opposite leg should be held np in order to
compel the animal to brace up the tendons of the affected leg, when any
inequality about the bones will be more easily felt; and secondly, the lame
leo- should be raised in such a manner as to bring the knee of the horse
under the arm of the examiner: in this position the tendons are fully
relaxed, and the bones can be felt to advantage.

In either of these positions the leg is favorably placed for examination,
and if the fingers are then applied along the leg and into the channel
between the inner small and great bone, the incipient splint will probably
be detected by the inequality, if any such yet exist; or by the pain evinced
on the application of pressure to the inflamed part.

In some cases, however, the incipient splint is so small, and possibly
the seat of the inflammatory action may at first be so completely in the
inter-osseous ligaments between the bones that nothing can be felt; and
the only indication leading to a suspicion that a splint is forming consists
in the horse going very lame at a trot, whilst sound at a walk. A little
extra heat may perhaps be felt on careful examination. The development
of a splint may in such cases be expected and must be carefully watched
for. The lameness and heat, if the horse is rested for a few days, will
sometimes disappear; but will I'eappear if the animal is again worked.

Williams' statement of the peculiarities of splint lameness is as fol-
lows.

' ' The lameness may precede the appearance of any swelling or deposit,
and in such a case it is apt to be confounded with that arising from other
diseases. But if the following observations are kept in remembrance, no
mistake need be made:

" 1st. The age of the animal. The young horse is most liable to splint
lameness, the older horse to navicular disease.

" 2d. The peculiarity of action. A horse lame from splint will walk
apparently or nearly sound, but will trot very lame, the drop of the head
and body upon the sound side being very great, and out of all proportion
to the apparent soundness of the walk.

" 3d. A want of flexion may be observed at the knee.

'' 4th. When the patient first comes out, and is made to trot, he may
go moderately sound, but after a time the lameness increases, the con-
cussion being a cause of pain. In navicular disease the lameness gener-
ally decreases with exercise.

*' 5th. Pressure upon the part of the leg where splint is likely to be

198 VETERIXARY MEDIOHSTE AND SURGERY.

will cause pain; some heat is present, and, hj a carcfnl manipulation, a
hard swelling, perhaps smaller than a pea, may be felt. In some cases the
exostoses soon develop themselves, and then there can be no further dif-
ficulty; but in others, this does not occur for several weeks, and these are
most unsatisfactory to the surgeon. In some rare cases the lameness is
very excessive, the horse being scarcely able to put any weight upon the
affected limb; standing with the toe only touching the ground, with
great heat and swelling of the part affected, at the same time suffering
from constitutional disturbance to a considerable degree."

Treatment. — If the splint does not cause lameness, it should be left
alone.

The nature and cause of splint very clearly indicate the treatment re-
quired— namely, rest. This powerful sedative may be assisted by the ap-
plication of a bandage wet in cold water, around the part affected.

In most cases these remedies will be sufficient. If, however, after an
interval of a month's or six weeks' rest, the horse continues lame, and the
seat of the splint under manipulation is very sensitive, it may be advis-
able to apply a blister:

Cantharides in powder | ss.

Lard , . ^ iij.

or the biniodide of mercury ointment:

Biniodide of mercury § i.

Lard | vi.

or a seton.

If the cantharides are mixed with the lard hot, one-half this amount
will suffice in the same quantity of lard.

In some cases, if a splint is treated by rest in the very early stage, the
lameness rapidly disappears; but the lameness recurs as soon as the horse
is put to work. If this occurs several times, the better plan is to give
the animal exercise enough to moderately dcveloj) the splint.

Williams strongly recommends "subcutaneous periostiomy " or cut-
ting with a knife into the new bony formation, or in obstinate cases the
use of the actual cautery; such measures, however, are not often neces-
sary.

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS.

199

A splint, when once fully formed into oone, cannot be removed; but
Nature in the course of time often absorbs a portion of the abnormal
growth, and hence it is not uncommon to find the legs of old horses free
or nearly free from external exostosis.

SORE-SHINS

Is primarily inflammation of the periosteum of the anterior portion of
the metacarpal bones from the knee to the fetlock, particularly of young
horses, too early put to work.

In consequence of the inflammation of the periosteum, ossific matter
is secreted, which forms in small nodules or in some instances in thin
layers on the surface of the bones. (Fig. 102.)

Etiology. — It arises from the concussion upon the soft and undevel-
oped bones of the fore-legs, produced by hard galloping. Usually the
leg which leads is the first affected.

200 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Symptoms. — Lameness; the horse goes more or less short in his gal-
lop; swelling above or in front of the fetlock, elastic and protruding at
first, but finally becoming hard, shifting from one part to the other if
both are affected. In the early stages of the attack the horse may have
fever, the inflammation be acute, and the animal very lame.

Treatment. — The treatment in the early stage consists in rest, aided
by warm applications containing opium, as:

Laudanum. | ss.

Water 1 pint.

A dose of physic:

Aloes 3 V.

Ginger 3 ij.

Molasses enough to form a ball

and a long rest with low diet and quiet will often complete a cure.

RING BONES.

Definition. — Are bony deposits upon the pastern bones, forming a
more or less complete ring around the bone. (Fig. 104.) False ring bone
is simply an exostosis on the middle or upper part of the long pastern
bone (Fig. 103), which may, if very large, cause temporary lameness
while forming, but cannot be considered an unsoundness.

True ring bone is quite a serious matter, and the degree of lameness
does not always depend upon the size of the deposit. Sometimes but
little evidence of its formation may appear upon the front of the bone,
and the continuity of the ring may be defective. When chiefly upon the
sides of the bone, the lameness is usually less than when upon the front,
and precedes or accompanies the formation of the bony deposit, disap-
pearing when anchylosis is complete. "When the deposit is just above
the coronet, it is called low ring bone. Fig. 105; when nearer the middle
of the pastern, high ring bone, Fig. 104.

Etiology. — Ring bones are the result of inflammation originating in
the extremities of the bones or synovial membranes of the articulations

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS.

201

■which they involve; due to hereditary predisposition, rheumatism, or ac-
cidental injury. Long pasterns are most subject to ring bones.

Symptoms. — The gait of a horse lame from this cause is character-
istic. If in the fore extremity, except the deposit be on the posterior
aspect, the patient puts his heel to the ground first; but when in the
hind pastern, the toe touches the ground first always when it is situated
in the upper position, except it be in front; when in the lower position,
the heel comes down first. From this peculiarity in putting the foot to
the ground, it is apt to be confounded with laminitis, seedy-toe, and in-

FlG. 103.
False ring bone shown at
a, a.

Fig. 104.
High ring bone.

•'■^''^

Fig. 105.
Incipient ring bone begin-
ning at tlie lower extrem-
ity of the OS suff raginis.

flammation of the coronary band. It differs from laminitis by the ab-
sence of pain at the toe, freedom from fever, etc., and by the heat being
confined to the upper part of the foot only.

An examination of the foot will determine Avhether there be a seedy-
toe or a sand-crank in its front; and the absence of the striated appear-
ance of the wall of the foot will distinguish it from inflammation of the
coronary substance.

202 VETERINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Treatment. — If the horse put his fore-legs down heel first, put on a
shoe worked very thin behind, such as described by Broad as follows :
" Extremely stout, wide-webbed, and long bar-shoes, make from iron
about twice the ordinary thickness of those of the particular animal
under treatment; make them gradually thin from behind the quarters,
so that the heel part of the shoes may be as wide and thin as possible, and
fitted rocker fashion to allow the weight of the horse to be on that part;
put them on with leather soles, using only suflQcient nails to insure their
staying on for two or three days." If, on the contrary, the horse walks
on his toe, shoe with a high-heeled shoe.

Fomentations of hot water with laudanum, an ounce to a quart, will
allay the pain. Afterward apply blisters to hasten the ossific process.
The fly blister may be used, or biniodide of mercury, as preferred:

Powdered cantharides § ss.

Lard § iij.

Or,

Biniodide of mercury ^ i.

Lard Ivi.

ANCHYLOSIS.

Synonym.— Stiff joint.

Definition. — Anchylosis or stiff joint is a result of previous disease,
rather than a disease itself. It is occasional by the presence of deposits
which have resulted from previous inflammation in the structure of, or
in the neighborhood of the joint. It consists in more or less complete
consolidation of the parts within or around the articulation.

Anchylosis may arise from thickening and induration of the fibrous
capsule, or from the formation of fibroid bands within the joint; or it
may be caused by partial or complete erosion of the cartilages and syno-
vial membranes; their place being supplied by a fibroid or a fibro-cellular
tissue, by means of which the articular ends of the bones are united. Or
it may arise from shortening, contraction, or wasting away of the mus-
cles which in health move the joint. In other cases the anchylosis may

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS. 203

be osseous, i. e., bony union may have taken place between the bones of
the joint.

Inflammation in a joint, or even in the neighborhood of a joint, is
always a source of some danger. There is always some reason to fear
lest the deposit resulting from the inflammation should interfere with
the free motion of the part, even if it does not produce partial or com-
plete anchylosis.

Treatment. — For bony anchylosis there is no remedy. The previ-
ous disease, whatever it may have been, has caused the mischief and an-
chylosis is the result.

For mere stiffness (as distinguished from anchylosis) arising from re-
cent thickenings or deposits in or about the neighborhood of the joint,
the treatment consists in rest; and in the application, as soon as the active
inflammation has left the part, of absorbents, such as mercury, iodine,
or biniodide of mercury. Although we cannot be certain of a favorable
result, yet there is a reason to hope that by the use of such means so
much of the thickening or exostosis may be removed as will at least pre-
vent its interfering with the motion of the joint. With the removal of
such interference, the pain and irritation will cease.

In human surgery, operations are sometimes undertaken for the re-
moval of such deposits; but in the horse they do not answer, because there
are no means of placing him in such position as will take the weight off
the limb for a suflQcient length of time after the operation.

OPEN JOINT

Definition. — Is an exposed condition of a joint, accompanied by a
discharge of synovial fluid and extensive inflammation.

Etiology. — Some penetrating injury in the neighborhood of the
joint, or sloughing of injured parts so as to expose the bones of the joint.

Symptoms. — An open joint, when occasioned by puncture or inci-
sion, is not at first (if unassociated with fracture) attended by severe
local or constitutional disturbance; but at the end of a period varying
from two to ten days pain comes on, and spreads over the joint, which
soon presents a considerable amount of swelling and tension. The swell-
ing is at first tense, but elastic; however, it soon becomes hard and un-
yielding, and accompanied by great constitutional disturbance, the pulse

204 VETERINARY MEDICINE ANB SURGERY.

rising in frequency, becoming hard and wiry in its character, and the
animal evincing acute and agonizing pain by partial tremors and sweats
upon his body. In fact, all the constitutional symptoms indicate a state
of great irritability. The lameness is excessive. The animal is scarcely
able to put its foot to the ground, whilst at the same time the joain
causes it to keep it in an almost continual state of motion. An injury
not at first penetrating the joint may do so in the course of three or four
days, by sloughing of the tissues around it, these having been destroyed
but not removed by the violence of the injury.

The discharge of synovia may be very trifling for some days after the
accident; but it gradually increases as the inflammation advances, is thin
in its consistency, and mixed with flakes of lymph; coagulates upon the
lips of the wound, and oozing through this there will be a thin watery
discharge. There is exudation of a large quantity of lymph into the tis-
sues surrounding the joint, Avhich becomes partly organized, forming a
hard, firm swelling. The secretion from the wound is now unhealthy,
purulent, or tinged with blood, whilst abscesses begin to form around
the articulation.

When blood is seen in the synovial discharge, it is an indication that
the laminal extremities of the bones have been removed, that their vas-
cular interior is exposed, and that, if the joint affected be one of exten-
sive motion, it will be useless to keep the animal longer in its misery.

Bring the lips of the wound together by suture, which must be either
metallic or catgut. If there are any foreign bodies, such as dirt, gravel,
or portions of disintegrated tissue in the wound, they must be carefully
removed before its lips are brought together. To support the suture,
and to prevent the admission of air and germs into the wound, the styp-
tic colloid, shellac, or collodion, must be applied, by being painted on in
successive layers with a camel's-hair pencil. The next thing to be done
is to place the animal in slings as soon as possible. This is essential to
the successful treatment of open joint, as it places the patient in the
most favorable position for repose, and by preventing him from making
even the attempt to lie down, does away with the danger of reopening
the wound. All other local applications, by interfering with the healing
process in the wound, are at this stage calculated to do harm.

Wounds upon or near articulations should never be meddled with, by
any probing, for the purpose of discovering if there be fracture of the
bones. If fracture exist, the lameness will be excessive from the first.

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEG?. 205

A meddlesome interference with the probe has often caused open joint,
when the original injury had not penetrated the synovial membrane.

The constitutional treatment must be that calculated to lessen pain
, and irritation; a small purgative, combined with opium:

Aloes 3 iij.

Powdered opium 3 ss.

Molasses sufficient to make one ball

to be followed at intervals of four to six hours by one-half-drachm-doses
of opium or of aconite; and enemas of warm water, two or three times a
day, will be beneficial, unloading the rectum, and enabling the animal to
pass iseces without straining.

If the wound heal by these measures, and the inflammation of the
joint continue, as in all probability it will, cold must be applied; and
the best method of doing this is by irrigation — that is, by allowing a
continual stream of cold water to trickle over the surface of the joint.
This is easily done by attaching an India-rubber pipe to a faucet, fasten-
ing the pipe to a convenient part of the slings, and carrying its free ex-
tremity on to the lame limb, and fixing it above the inflamed joint by
means of a bandage. If no faucet is convenient, a tub can be fixed in
the loft above the horse, or in any part of the stable above the level of
the inflamed joint, and the pipe inserted into an aperture at the lower
part of the tub, which is to be well supplied with water. A very small
stream of water will be suflficient.

If the injury has been inflicted for a longer period than a few hours,
when inflammation is already established, and pus has commenced to be
formed, to plug up the wound at this stage would only cause the fluid
accumulated within the capsule of the joint to burst out at some other
spot. The application of the actual cautery, of hot lime, and of the
various caustics and astringents, with the view of coagulating the syno-
via, as recommended by many teachers, writers, and practitioners, can-
^ not be too highly condemned; and it must always be remembered by the
practitioner that every wound which has commenced to suppurate must
heal by granulations; and that the more perfect formation of these goes
on in the deeper-seated parts of the wound — that is to say, that the heal-
ing must be from within outwards: the plugging of the outer orifice,
while pus is being formed, causes it to accumulate in the joint and sur-

206 VETERINAKY MEDICINE AND 6UKGEEY.

rounding structures, adds to the suffering of the animal, and, in too
many cases, causes its death.

The application of a blister to the whole surface of the joint is the
most successful treatment that can be adopted if the wound has failed to
heal by the primary or adhesive process. The blister acts by removing
pain, limiting motion, exciting the formation of healthy granulations,
and (as a result of the swelling it produces) causing the approximation
of the snrfaces of the wound.

The coagulum of synovia which accumulates upon the wound should
never be removed, as it prevents the admission of air and of organic
germs into the joint, and thus limits the formation of pus.

Many cases when so treated make good recoveries; but if ulceration
of the cartilage and removal of the laminal ends of the bones occur (and
this change will be indicated by haemorrhage, or by increased pain and
twitching movements of the limb), and if the articulation be one of ex-
tensive motion, the attendant will understand that the repair can only
be by anchylosis, and that anchylosis in such a joint will render the ani-
mal unfit for further use; but if the joint be one of limited motion, the
animal may become fit for slow work, even after the joint has been
destroyed. The animal's shoes should be removed, provided this be
done carefully, and beforo great lameness has manifested itself. If one
of the lower articulations, particularly of the fore extremities, be the
seat of the lesion, the animal can be made to stand in a tub of cold
water (see Fig. 2) and the trouble of affixing the pipe for the purpose
of irrigation be avoided.

All cases of open joint require a long period of rest after the wound
has healed; and it is generally necessary to blister repeatedly, or even to
fire, before the remains of the inflammation excited in the bones and sy-
novial membrane are finally removed.

Several abscesses, some mere points of pus, others of a greater size,
form in the exudate which has been formed outside of the cavity of the
articulation during the progress of the disease. It may be considered
necessary to open them surgically, if they cause increased pain. It may
be well do so; but if they are mere accumulations without pain, it is bet-
ter not to interfere, rather allowing them to burst spontaneously.

The horse should be kept in the slings until he is able to bear a mod-
erate amount of weight upon the affected limb.

During the early period of the disease, the food must be spare, light,

EXPLANATION OF PLATE IIL

DISSECTION SHOWING THE SEAT AND INTERNAL APPEARANCE OF
WINDGALLS. (Percival.)

In this plate is represented the near hind leg of the horse, cut off below
the hock, inclined a little in its position so as the more fully to ex-
pose to view its outer side: the windgalls formed in it showing
rather more development on that than on the opposite side.

Two of these tumors {a and b) are apparent in it in the usual situation,
viz., a little above the fetlock. One of them (a), which is cut open
to expose its interior, is seated about a couple of inches higher than
the sesamoid bones, being there lodged in front of the perforatus
tendon (d) in the interspace between it and the perforans tendon
(e); which latter seems as though it actually ran through the cavity
of the windgall, owing to the circumstance of the bursa having
natural attachments around the borders of the tendon. At the
time it was cut open this windgall contained full half an ounce of
albuminous fluid, of the aspect and consistence of white of egg, ex-
cepting that it was of a beautifully bright, pale yellow color, as the
stain it has left upon the tendon (at e) fully indicates. Its charac-
ter was truly synovial.

The other fetlock windgall (b), situated half an inch lower down, is
lodged in front of the perforans tendon, between it and the suspen-
sory ligament (/"), whose bifurcations afford a habitation for it
(at g). In its unopened state the windgall assumes the ordinary
bluish or grayish cast windgalls, viewed through their parietes, or-
dinarily present.

The windgall-looking-like cavity within the hollow of the heel (c),
though in the subject from which the drawing was taken no more
than a healthy bursa, represents well enough the seat of " windgall
of the heel."

PLATE

a --

""55" J

X t.).)cclit>u jhou'inq tW.oeal a Tid LixtclTval akKeat

a^\cc

I ofindqalUj

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS. 207

and cooling; but when the fever has abated, it must be of the most
nourishmg kind, in order to compensate for the great waste of tissue
and emaciation which are so characteristic of open joint.

WINDGALLS.
(see PLATE III.

Defiiiitioii. — Windgalls are soft, pulpy swellings in the neighborhood
of the fetlock joints. They may vary in size from a pin to a large hen's egg.
Fig. 106.

Fig. lOG.
External appearance of windgaUs.

Etiology. — They more commonly arise from over-exertion and irri-
tation of the parts than from actual sprain. Indeed the fetlock joint is
so constructed that it is very rarely sprained.

Treatment. — Apj^ly a stimulating ointment:

Iodide of potassium 3 ij.

Lard § i j.

or, if preferred, the biniodide of mercury ointment:

Biniodide of mercury | i.

Lard § x.

Even if absorbed, they are very apt to return when the horse is put to
work again.

208 VETEKINAKY MEDICINE AND SUKGEKY.

BRUSHING.

Synonyms. — Interfering, cutting.

Definition. — Striking the fetlock by the opposite foot, sometimes
causing a contusion only, but more often scratching or abrading the
surface. Commonly interfering is between the hind feet only.

Etiology. — Bad shoeing; the clinched point of a nail, not sufficiently
turned in or filed, will sometimes lacerate the' opposite fetlock badly.
Horses when fatigued are more apt to interfere.

Symptoms. — More or less severe transient lameness; if badly struck,
the horse will flinch and carry the injured leg off the ground for several
steps, and limp for some time before the pain subsides.

Treatment. — A shoe made thick at the heel on the inside, and a
boot on the opposite leg. If the fetlock is badly bruised, foment with:

Chloride of ammonium ^ i.

Nitrate of potassium 5 ij.

Water § xvi.

Thoroughly dry after each washing, and if cut apply Pinus canadensis or
tar.

'■ SPEEDY-CUT.

Definition. — This is an injury caused by the one fore-foot wounding
the opposite leg immediately below, and sometimes just above, the knee.
It is usually inflicted at the gallop, when the horse has begun to tire.

Symptoms. — Heat and swelling, accompanied by the formation of
pus, about the injured part, which is very sensitive. After a day or two,
an abscess may appear, or the swelling may feel like a sac containing pus.

Treatment. — If pus is present, open the abscess freely, to give it vent;
bathe the parts with warm water, and afterward with a weak solution of:

Acetate of zinc gr. xxv.

Water 1 pint

Use as soon as the acetate is dissolved.

If left alone, the abscess will often become hard; if it is desirable to

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS.

209

break up this deposit, blister with biniodide of mercury, aud open at the
lowest point by a horizontal incision. Then apply a chamois-skin band-
age, wet with oil and water, moderately tight, to induce absorption. It
is advisable to use a boot extending as high as the knee on horses liable to
speedy-cut.

SHOULDER SLIP.

Deflnition. — Inflammation of tlie muscles and tendons of the

Fig. 107.
Muscles of the inside of the Scapula

Involved in Shoulder Slip.
1, 1. The antea spinatus.

2. fiibscapularis.

3. Teres internus.

4. Caput magnum of triceps extenscr

pedis.

5. Scapulo-ulnarius.

6. A distinct muscle, without a nam?.

7. A portion of the caput medium.

8. Humeralis.

9. Caput parvum.

10. Coraco-humeralis.

11. Flexor brachii.

Fig. 108.

Muscles of the outer sidb of

THE Shoulder, Atrophied in

Shoulder Slip.

a. Postea spinatus.

b. Antea spinatis.

c. Triceps.

d. Teres externus.

e. Flexor brachii.

/. Extensors of the forearm.
g. Flexors of the forearm.

210 VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGEET.

shoulder joint resulting in atrophy. See Fig. 107 and Fig. 108 for mus-
cles involved in shoulder slip.

Etiology. — Shoulder slip occurs only in horses which are obliged to
work on uneven ground, as in plowing.

Symptoms. — A wasting away of the shoulder, accompanied by ao
increasing lameness. The loss of muscle leaves a hollow space upon both
sides of the scapular spine.

Treatment. — If the inflammation is detected before the muscles be-
come atrophied, fomentations:

Chloride of ammonium,

Nitrate of potassium aa § iiss

Water 1 pint

Use as soon as dissolved.

A dose of physic, five grains of aloes with linseed meal and molasses to
form a ball, and subsequently keeping the bowels free by green forage, and
removal of the shoes is proper treatment. After the muscles are shrunk-
en, stimulating blister:

Cantharides § i.

Lard Ix.

or.

Binodide of mercury | i.

Lard 5xvi.

and turning out to grass for a long rest is best.

ELBOW LAMENESS.

Etiology. — Disease of the joint, sprain of the lateral ligaments, or
rupture of the triceps muscle are the ordinary causes of elbow lameness.

Symptoms. — The lameness is excessive. When the ligaments are
sprained or the triceps injured, the diagnosis of the seat of lameness is
easy, for there will be. swelling, pain, and heat, in addition to difficulty
in moving the articulation. When the internal ligament is injured, the

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS.

211

horse stands with his foot and limb thrown outwards. This he does to
prevent, as much as possible, the injured parts being pressed upon by
the pectoral muscles, and when the triceps is the seat of the injury, the
forearm is flexed upon the humerus; the action of the flexor brachii
being now unopposed, the knee is elevated, the leg flexed from the kne^'.
downwards, the toe of the foot touching the ground, and the limb semi-
pendulous. When the horse is made to move, he drops considerably, and
seems in danger of falling at every step he takes, the limb itself almost
bending double when any weight is thrown upon it. This excessive
dropping, during progression, in characteristic of elbow- joint lameness,
even when there are no external signs, such as heat, swelling, or pain,
visible. Fig. 109 gives the anatomy of the joint.

Fig. 109,
Posterior view of left elbow joint.

A. Inferior third of the humerus.

B. B. External and internal condyles.

C. Olecranon process of ulna.

D. Radius.

1 . External lateral ligament.

2. Internal lateral ligament.

3. 3. Fibro-cart^'aginous substance unit-

ing the ulna to the radius.

Treatment. — Frequent fomentations with warm or not water in
which a little laudanum may be poured. In a day or two, cold applications
may be made, oi* they may be made from the outset if preferred.

A full dose of six grains of aloes may be given. The swelling may
be afterwards treated by rubbing with:

212

VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Powdered cantharides '^i.

Lard § xij ,

Mix with gentle heat.

CAPPED KNEE.

Definition. — Swelling of the bursa of the extensor metacarpi mag-
nus muscle.

Etiology. — Usually produced by blows upon the knees or by the
entrance of thorns into the knee.

Symptoms. — Stiffness and pain in the knee with heat, indicating in-
flammation, with a resulting fluctuating swelling. Fig. 110.

Fig. no.
Capped knee, fore leg.

Treatment. — This swelling may either be punctured at once, or it
reduction attempted by the application of blisters. Of course if a thorn
can be detected, it must be at once removed. Blisters, when sufficiently
strong.

Powdered cantharides § i.

Lard ! vi.

often cause the reduction of these swellings by producing an exudation
of lymph into the distended sac, converting the soft, fluctuating swelling
into a hardish, indurated mass, which is gradually removed by absorp,
tion. But if blisters, with moderately firm pressure after the soreness of
the blister has passed away, have no effect in reducing the swelling, the
practitioner need not hesitate to puncture and allow the contained fluid

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS. 213

to escape. The puncture should be made at the lowest margin of the
swelling, and upon its inner side, by a transverse incision, in order
to blemish as little as possible. After the i^uncture is made and the
fluid pressed out, the walls of the sac must be kept in apposition by
means of a flannel bandage, rolled round the knee from above down-
wards, until they become united by the adhesive inflammation. The
bandnge should not be disturbed for five or six days if no inconvenience
is caused to the patient; but if any signs of pain are manifested, it should
be removed and readjusted. The puncture in the skin must be kept
open (and the best plan to do this is to insert a small piece of lint or tow
into its orifice, allowing it to remain in for a few hours), in order to allow
the escape of any fluid which might collect in the sac. The bandage is
placed so as not to cover the wound. There is no danger to be appre-
hended from opening this bursa, sufficient inflammation is excited with-
out injecting iodine or any other irritant.

STIFLE JOINT LAMENESS.

Symptoms. — When the true stifle-joint is affected, the leg through-
out is held, when at rest, in a flexed condition, the toe resting on the
ground; but as soon as the sufferer moves the limb it is quickly extended
and rigid; at each step the heels first touch the ground, the body being
elevated greatly, as the weight is carried over the limb. "When the minor
joint is diseased, the limb, as in the preceding case, is held, during rest,
in a state of semiflexion; in movement, the toe drags on the ground, or
is carried round in a swinging form; and in the worst cases — probably
from extension of the disease — the action assumes the form last described.
Swelling, acute irritative fever, and intense pain, sometimes mark these
cases, from which the animal dies, or has to be destroyed. In old horses
it is not uncommon to find eburnation of this Joint, the existence of
which may have been suspected by the enlarged condition of the synovia
capsule during life. For the anatomy of the stifle Joint see Figs. Ill
and 112.

Treatment. — Cold applications until the inflammation subsides and
then stimulating embrocations: that recommended below for sprain of
the fetlock joint. Or, if preferred:

214

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Fig. 111.
Posterior View of Stifle
Joint.

A. Inferior third of femur.

B. B. Condyles.

D. Superior third of the tibia.

E. Fibula.

F. Patella.

1. Internal lateral ligament of the

patella.

2. External lateral ligament of the

femoro-tibial articulation.

3. Internal lateral ligament of the

femoro-tibial articulation.

4. Posterior crucial ligament.

5. 5. Semilunar cartilages.

Fig. 112,
External View of the Left
Stifle Joift.

A. Femur.

B. External condyle of femur.

C. Trochlea.

D. Tibia.

E. Fibula.

F. Patella.

1. Strong band of fibres.

8. External lateral ligament, or
the capsular ligament, connect-
ing tlie patella with the exter-
nal condyle.

3. 3. Great ligament of the patella.

4. 4. External ligament of the pa-

tella.

5. 5. Semilunar fibro-cartilages.

Mercurial ointment 1 i.

Oil of origanum 3 ss.

Camphor § i.

Olive oil ? iv.

SPRAIN OF THE FETLOCK JOINT.

Symptoms. — Heat, pain, and tenderness on manipulation, a hesi-
tancy to put the foot to the ground, and finally abandoning the attempt
and hopping on three legs. It is a rare form of lameness.

Treatment. — Throw up the horse from all work, give perfect rest.

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS. 215

bind up the joint loosely with muslin bandages, and keep wet with cold
water until the inflammation subsides, afterward rub twice daily for a
week with:

Oil of turpentine,

Tincture of cantharides aa § iss.

Give very gentle work for some time.

SPRAIN OF THE FLEXOR TENDONS.

Synonym. — Sprain of the back sinews.

Etiology. — Too heavy loads, especially when shod with high toe calks.

Symptoms. — Tliere will be heat and swelling in the part; very often
during the earlier stages, the ligament can be felt swollen, prominent,
and bulging, the tendons themselves being quite normal; when pressed
upon, the horse evinces pain; stands with the leg upright, and moves it
stiflQy, digging his toe into the ground. When in the hind leg, flexion
is very imperfectly performed; he seems to throw the limb behind him as
he lifts it from the ground, and the fetlock and hock are not flexed as in
sound action. When the tendons themselves are involved, they will be
found swollen upwards and downwards from the seat of the original in-
jury; and this extension of the swelling prevents their gliding through
their thecae, particularly the thecae situated in the carpal or tarsal fossae.

To detect very slight sprains, especially if situated in a hind leg, it
will often be necessary to compare the thickness of both legs by careful
manipulation, as the swelling can only be detected in that way, on ac-
count of the coarse hair aiid thick skin of cart-horses' legs. In the bet-
ter bred animal, a difEerence in the thickness can easily be seen as well
as felt.

The special treatment required for this lameness is the application of
the high-heeled shoe, in order to throw the tendons into a state of relax-
ation, and a long period of rest. In chronic cases, where shortening has
permanently taken place, the operation of tenotomy must be performed.

Many horses with contraction of the tendons will perform very light
work moderately well if a piece of iron is attached to the toe of the shoe,
projecting an inch or two in front of it, and slightly turned up at its

216 VETERINARY MEDIOINE AND SURGERY.

anterior part. Tliis acts as a lever upon the toe, forcing the heel down-
wards, and prevents "knuckling over" on the front of the fetlock-joint.

Tenotomy, or division of the tendons, is thus performed: — The ani-
mal is first cast, the hiine leg, heing on the ground, is loosed from the
hobbles, and secured by a rope-strap around the fetlock held by an assist-
ant. A small wound is then made about the middle of the leg on the
inner side in a longitudinal direction, directly over the groove or depres-
sion formed between the bone and tendons, and the attachment by sub-
cutaneous tissue between the tendons and the suspensory ligament also
must be cut through as far as the skin below, the knife being used fiat-
wise. A probe-pointed knife is then inserted fiatwise as far as the skin
on the lower side, then turned edge towards the tendons, when by grad-
ual cutting they are divided. The existence of old-standing adhesions
about the tendons and fetlock-Joint may prevent straightening of the
limb, but if the operator places his knee against the front of the cannon
bone, and by pulling at the foot forwards, the obstructions will be broken
down. Only one skin wound is necessary; two orifices render the recov-
ery tardy and awkward. Union of the lips is secured by sutures, and
cold-water bandages may be applied afterwards, or the antiseptic treat-
ment followed. The animal may be placed in slings, and the head tied
up, the feet being divested of shoes, and hoofs trimmed to proper pro-
portions. By degress the animal brings the heels to the ground and
bears weight upon the foot, and union is usually effected in two months,
or thereabouts, sufficiently to enable the animal to go to ordinary work.

The operation, although promising in itself, and successful in restor-
ing the limb to its natural position, very frequently proves a source of
disappointment, from the fact that the reparative material, which is
thrown out between the ends of the divided tendons, gradually contracts-,
whereby the tendons are made as short as before it has been performed.
In the hind leg this contraction is the usual consequence, and the ten-
dency to it has to be overcome by a lever at the toe of the shoe. This
often arrests, but seldom finally prevents it. In the fore extremity the
operation is much more successful, the limb maintaining its natural con-
dition for yeai's afterwards.

SPRAIN OF THE SUSPENSORY LIGAMENT.

Symptoms.— Sprain, or simple extension of the suspensory ligament,
according to the extent of injury, gives rise to lameness, swelling along

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS. 217

the course of the structures, with heat, pain, and tenderness on pressure;
while the animal endeavors to give ease to the part by flexing the fetlock-
joint, and resting or walking on the toe of the foot, the weight being sus-
tained by the flexor muscles and tendons. When rupture takes place, it
may occur at the broad part above the bifurcation, across one or both of
the branches; or it may be torn direct from one or both of its attachments
at the sesamoid bones. Wherever the tendon is ruptured the effects are
the same; the fetlock descends to the ground, the toe pointing upwards
and the sole forwards, exhibiting the condition known as " hrealc doion.''^
As the ligament is common to fore and hind legs, any one of them may
be the seat of lameness. As a rule, hunters and race-horses are most
liable to it as arising in the fore-limbs, while other animals, of heavier
breeds, exhibit it in the hind legs.

The injury is a very serious one; but with a long rest and proper
treatment a horse so injured may become sufficiently sound to perform
moderate work for many years. Yet there is always a weakness left,
which must be considered an unsoundness, as it may at any time cause
lameness, particularly if the animal be called upon to do a little extra
work.

The marks of the injury will always remain and exhibit themselves in
a permanent thickening which maybe felt close to the large cannon bone,
or on any part of the ligament.

Treatment. — For simple sprain apply cold water, put on a bandage
loosely, and keep it constantly wet. Make a fine roll of tow or muslin
and bind it firmly under the fetlock pad so as completely to fill up the
hollow of the heel and support the fetlock; continue the bandage well up
to the knee. If the horse will lie down, it is the best way of resting the
limb, otherwise it is best to put him into slings. A long rest from work
is indispensable to a recovery.

SWELLED LEGS.

Synonyms. — Stocking; CEdema of the legs.

Definition. — A dropsical afliection, usually of mild form. The name
swelled legs indicates very clearly the appearance of this affection.

Etiology. — Sometimes arising from deficient action of the kidneys.

218 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

but much more commonly from the vessels of the legs not acting suffi-
ciently when the animal is at rest.

Symptoms. — Swelling of the lower part of the legs, giving a coarse
appearance to them, and usually most apparent in the morning.

Treatment. — If caused by want of exercise, a half hour's or an
hour's walk will cause aborption. The system may need the use of ton-
ics as:

Sulphate of iron 3 i,

twice a day in the food, or.

Sulphate of quinine 3 i.

Gentian 3 ij.

Linseed meal,

Molasses .aa sufficient.

In a ball daily.

Or,

Sulphate of iron 3 i.

Gentian § ij.

Honey § xvi.

Two tablespoon fuls twice daily as an electuary.

Give some simple diuretic, as:

Nitrate of potassium 3 ij.

Dissolved in water

to act on the kidneys.

LYMPHANGITIS.

Synonyms. — Weed; Inflammatory (Edema.

Definition. — Inflammation of the lymphatic glands, usually of the
hind legs, accompanied by a disturbance of the functions of the absorb-
ents and blood-vessels.

Etiology. — Over-feeding with too little regular exercise. Hereditary

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS. 219

predisposition, unaccustomed and prolonged exposure to wet and cold
after severe work.

Symptoms. — Mr. Haycock, who was first to give this disease a sci-
entific name, very graphically describes a case of it which occurred in
his practice. He says: — *' The horse is standing in the stable on three
legs, the left hind limb being held with the foot from the ground.
Great anxiety is depicted on the animal's countenance, and he frequently
looks round at the limb held up. The respirations are forty-eight per
minute; the pulse ninety-six, and hard and cord-like to the touch. The
nostrils are dilated to their full extent, and the perspiration rolls in
drops from the sides of the abdomen, the shoulders, and the thighs. The
affected limb is greatly distended upon its inner surface, from its juDC-
tion with the body to the very foot. The lymphatic glands are swollen
into large lumps or masses, and towards them, in all directions, run a
great number of lymphatic vessels, enlarged to the size of a thick quill.
These enlarged vessels exist on the outer as well as the inner side of the
limb. The surface of the swelling is covered with a serous exudation :
the mouth is dry and clammy; and great desire is evinced for cold
water."

Horses that have once been attacked by lymphangitis are liable to
a recurrence of the malady, and generally one attack succeeds another
periodically, until the limb assumes an enlarged or distended condition
termed elephantiasis.

Treatment. — Fomentations of warm water to which a little lauda-
num has been added, to the affected limb, to reduce the swelling,
and the administration of a cathartic:

Aloes 3 vi.

Ginger 3 i j.

Molasses sufficient

To make one ball

constitute nearly all the treatment that is required. After the cathartic
has operated, diuretic remedies may be given with advantage:

Powdered digitalis 3 i

Nitrate of potassium 3 ij.

Linseed meal,

Molassess aa sufficient

220 VETEBLNAEY MEDICINE AND SUKGEEY.

Or,

Nitrate of potassium 3 ij.

Dissolve in water and give twice a day

and should the fever be very high, the pulse hard, and the animal sliow-
ing signs of much pain and restlessness, tincture of aconite is to be re-
peatedly adniinistei'cd. Some practitioners are in the habit of giving a
small cathartic, and sending the horse to ordinary work whilst suffering
from this malady. Such practice is irrational, and defeats its own ob-
ject; for exercise, though carefully regulated, if given early in the disease,
causes the swelling to assume a permanency of character which it is dif-
ficult to remove. Exercise certainly dissipates the swelling at the time;
but after the patient has stood for a few iiours, the swelling returns, and
it is no less curious than true, that each fresh exudation tends more and
more to become organized.

As a powerful stimulant to the vessels of the skin inducing a general
warmth over the surface of the body, tincture of arnica, in doses varying
from one to two ounces, can be given with advantage.

ELEPHANTIASIS.

Definition. — This is a condition of excess of development of the cu-
taneous and subcutaneous tissues of a diffuse character, usually involving
the larger proportion of these structures of an entire limb.

Etiology. — This condition of steady hypertrophy of skin and other
associated structures appears in all instances directly dependent on lym-
phangitis, the extent and rapidity of the changes being in direct relation
to the severity of the inflammation. Although the hyperplastic cutaneous
activities are only set in motion by the inflammatory affection of the lym-
phatics, and while every fresh attack may give a renewed impetus to the
development of particular tissue-elements, the hyperplastic changes,
when once started, seem to go on even between these repeated onsets of
lymphangitis, only receiving a fresh and more powerful impetus on the
occasion of each attack.

Symptoms.— The first appearance of the disease is a swelling of the
subcutaneous tissue, the true skin becoming involved secondarily. When

DISEASES AND INJURIES OF THE LEGS.

221

affected, the skin becomes thickened, somewhat hardened and more dif-
ficult to move on the subcutaneous tissue; it is dry and coriaceous, oc-
casionally scaly, and falls into folds and fissures which in cases of long
standing may chap and suppurate. This thickening of cutaneous and
subcutaneous parts, after a time, causes much alteration of the limb
and deformity, with impaired power of motion. (Fig. 113.)

Fig. 113.
Elephantiasis in the Horse.

Treatment. — This may be palliative; but seldom, when once estab-
lished, is the condition reversed. Of all which have been recommended
and tried, a judicious combination of drastic cathartics and diuretic
medicine with a rather liberal use of tonics, vegetable and mineral,
together witli the employment of daily inunctions with a compound
of mercurial and iodine ointment, may be productive of good. The
more heroic treatment, by the local use of cantharides blisters, issues,
or the actual cautery, has also been tried, but generally with unfor-
tunate results. Once the disease is established, it may be classed among
the incurables.

CHAPTER X.

DISEASES OF THE FEET.

Prick of the Foot, Picking up Nails, Puncture of the Frog and Sole, Corns, Quittor,
Sandcracks, False Quarter, Seedy Toe, Thrush, Frush, Canker, Navicular
Disease, Laminitis, Founder, Inflammation of the Feet, Sidehones, Villitis,
Inflammation of the Coronet, Carbuncle of Coronet, Tread, Overreach.

The diseases of the feet and their intelligent treatment can be better
understood by a careful study of the figures here given as preliminary to
the consideration of the subject matter of this chapter. In Fig. 114 is

Fig. 114.
External appearance of the Foot.

Fio. 116
Ground surface of the foot; A, sole' B,
laarsj C, Frog; D, the ordinary seat of
corns; E, Crust or wall.

shown the enter appearance of the hoof, the horny crust. Fig. 115 is
the ground surface of the foot, when properly prepared for shoeing

224

VETEKINAET MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Fig. 116 shows the relation of the bones of the lower leg to the foot
bones: — a, cannon bone; h, large pastern bone; c, small pastern bone;
d, pedal bone; e, navicular bone; f, insertion of the extensor pedis
tendon into the coronary process of the pedal bone; g, insertion of the
flexor pedis perforans, passing under the navicular bone, to gain inser-
tion into the sole of the pedal bone; h, elastic frog; i, horny frog; /,
hoof; k, coronet.

Fig. 116.
The pastern and foot divided through the centre.

Fig. 117 exhibits the delicate laminae within the wall of the foot: —
a, sensitive frog; h, sensitive bars: white line between the bars and frog
representing the part of the foot which secretes the horny commissure
that unites the bars and frog; c, sensitive sole; d, heels; e, fissUre of the
^^og; ff, reflection of the sensitive laminre forming the bars; g, reflec-
tion of the coronet forming the frog. The spongy substance, represented
at the left between e-a and h, show that the subject whence this drawing
was taken was only saved by death from an attack of canker.

Fig. 118, the bottom of the foot after all the insensitive sole has been
removed: — a, secreting coronet; h, sensitive laminae; c, reflection of the
coronet going to form the sensitive frog; d, reflection of the sensitive
laminae going to form the sensitive bars; e, toe; /, quarters; g, heels.

DISEASES OF THE FEET.

225

In Fig. 119 we have a fine representation of the bones and other parts
of the foot after it has been cut off just below the coronet: — a, elastic
frog; hb, posterior portion of the lateral cartilages; cc, anterior portion

Fig. 117.
Sensitive laminae of the foot.

of the lateral cartilages cut through; a, flexor pedis perforans tendon,
running under the navicular bone, but above the elastic frog; e, navicu-

FiG. 118.
The bottom of the foot after all the insensi-
tive sole has been removed.

Fig. 119.
The hoof divided below the coronet.

larbone, the anterior portion of which has been divided;/, superior
surface of the pedal bone, showing the indentations for the reception of

226 VETEKINARY MEDICINE AND 8DKGEKT.

the prominences at the inferior extremity of the small pastern bone; g,
in the separation of the hoof a removal has taken place of the coronary
process, which consequently projects above the horny box in the living
subject; h, interweaving of the sensitive and of the horny or insensitive
laminse; the dark lines representing the sensitive laminae, and the white
the horny laminae, which form the inner wall of the crust; i, outer wall
of the crust, consisting of dark horn.

PRICK OF THE FOOT.

Synonyms. — Picking up a nail.

Etiology. — Pricking is caused bynails actually penetrating the sensi-
tive laniinse which line the interior of the horny substance of the foot,
or by their being driven into the soft horn which surrounds them. In
the latter case, it may be several days, or even a week or two, before the
lameness disappears. Picking up a nail produces a similar wound, and
is liable to occur at any time a horse is in use. An injury of this kind
sliould be promptly treated, or it may result in serious trouble and cause
tetanus.

When the sensitive sole is injured by any such cause, inflammation
almost always occurs, terminating in the formation of pus which, unless
aided to escape, may burrow its way up and form an opening upon the
coronet, producing quittor.

Symptoms. — Lameness.

Treatment. — If not readily seen, the exact point of the lameness
may be detected by pinching around the foot with a pair of pincers, one
side being against the outside, while the other presses the sole inside of
the shoe. The injured spot being supposed to be found, draw the nails
from the shoe, carefully watching each as it comes out. If one appears
to be wet, it is probably the cause of the trouble.

In all cases it is essential to pare out freely, not merely the seat of the
puncture, but the surrounding sole for a considerable distance, with the
view of affording an easy exit for any matter which may form in the in-
sensitive sole. The foot should then be bathed in hot water for an hour.

Having taken these precautionary measures, it is, in general, safe in
cases which are treated immediately after the occurrence of the injury,
i. e., before inflammation has begun (but not otherwise), bo close the
puncture at once by the application of tow and tar for the purpose of ex-

DI8EA.SES OF THE FEET. 227

eluding the air and thereby lessening the chances of the occurrence of
inflammation. The shoe must be nailed on lightly in order to secure the
stopping in its place. Perfect rest is essential. In favorable cases, the
horse will be fit for work in a few days. Very few cases, however, are
taken sufficiently early to render the closing of the wound advisable.

As a general rule, inflammation will have set in and the formation of
matter begun before the injury is noticed. The evil with which we have
then to deal is the confinement of the pus in the interior of the foot. In
addition to paring out the sole, recourse must be had to poultices of lin-
seed meal:

Ground linseed § ij.

Olive oil , 3 ij,

Boiling water § v.

Mix the ground linseed gradually with the water and then add the oil with
constant stirring

with the view of modifying the inflammation and relieving the pain.

When these measures are early and efficiently taken, injuries of the
sensitive sole seldom prove either serious or tedious. The insensitive
sole, however, having been freely removed, the horse will not be fit for
work until nature has re-supplied a sufficient quantity of it for the pro-
tection of the foot, unless an artificial covering, such as a leather shoe
covering the entire sole, is provided. When, however, the wound is
more serious and does not yield to this treatment, lockjaw may supervene,
or even set in within four or five days. For further directions in sucJi
cases, see the article on Tetanus.

PUNCTURES OF THE FROG AND SOLE.

Punctures of the frog are similar in character with those of the sole
and require similar treatment. They nearly always arise from picking
up a nail. When taken in time, they are not serious and yield to treat-
ment even more readily than injuries of the sole.

If neglected, however, they are apt to lead to extensive disease of the
frog, and canker may be the possible result. In rare cases, the navicular
bone may be punctured, perfect recovery from which can never be ex-
pected.

228

VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND SUKGEKY.

CORNS.

Beflnition. — Corns are bruises of the sole, usually occurring in the
angle formed by the bars and the crust in front of the heel. They rarely
come on the hind feet. Corns probably are formed suddenly by a bruise
on the soft parts in the location named, and consist at first simply of
serum and lymjjh, or of exuded blood; very similar in nature to a blood
blister in the human skin.

Etiology. — An indirect but common cause of corns is bad shoeing,
the practice of excessive filing of the crust, to make a good-looking foot,
and also the removal of the bars. In rare cases they may be caused by

Fig. 120.
Method of finding a corn.

treading upon a stone. Paring out the seat of the corn, by which the
sensitive sole becomes exposed to injury from bruises and from the accu-
mulation of dirt and gravel under the shoe, in the hollow so made, may
perpetuate the diflBculty.

Symptoms. — Lameness, more or less pronounced. To find the ex-
act location of a corn, apply a pair of pincers to the hoof as shown in
Fig. 120, and ap])ly firm pressure from place to place until the flinching
of the horse shows the right spot has been found.

Treatment. — Tlie treatment of a corn, in its early stage, consists
simply in removing the cause, which is almost always undue pressure of
the shoe. Mayhew divides corns into four kinds, viz., the old, the new,

DISEASES OF THE FEET. 229

the sappy, and the suppurating; and as each has its characteristics and
appropriate treatment, his classification may be accepted.

Old corns are not commonly serious, and are mainly to be looked out
for in buying a horse.

In very slight cases, not causing lameness, it will be suflBcient to cut
away with the knife the black spot which indicates the seat of the corn,
and apply shoes somewhat longer than the crust, and somewhat broad
in tlie web at the heels, i. e., slighly projecting over the crust and bars.

A new corn consists of exuded blood effused into the soft horn, and
is of a bright scarlet color. If it produces lameness, it should be pared
out carefully and wWiout injury to the crust or bars. After which a
three-quarter-shoe, or a shoe so narrow in the web at the heel that it may
rest only on the crust, should be applied. Either of these measures will
remove the cause, viz., pressure.

A sappy corn is treated in the same way.

A suppurating corn is a serious evil, and produces extreme lameness.
Take off the shoe and apply a linseed meal poultices:

Ground linseed 1 ij.

Olive oil 3 ij.

Boiling water § v.

Mix the ground linseed gradually with the water, and then add the oil with
constant stilling.

After twelve to twenty-four hours, remove the poultice, and cut away the
softened horn until it yields easily to the pressure of the finger, and then
cut into the corn and give vent to the confined pus. Poultice again for
a day or two, as may seem to be needed. Then wash clean and apply
some astringent and antiseptic, as sulphate of zinc:

Sulphate of zinc,

Acetate of lead aa 3 ij.

Water 1 pint.

or, if preferred:

CarboUc acid 3 i.

Water |vi.toxij.

Shake well.

230 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Allow the horse perfect rest, and examine the foot from time to time, to
see that the new horn is growing over the spot. It is well, when the
shoe is first put on and the horse used, to protect to foot with a leathern

sole

For those who desire to use a corn salve, the following preparation,
recommended by Chawner, is as good as any:

Tar,

Beeswax,

Honey,

Glycerin aa § iij.

Lard lb. H.

Nitric acid 3 ij.

"Melt the lard and beeswax together, stir in the tar and other ingredients
and stir until cold."

It IS essential to bear in mind that though, as a temporary measure,
the formation of corns by undue pressure may be prevented by paring
out, and by the use of special shoes, yet the only real means of preventing
a recurrence of the disease consists in the maintenance of a good, sound
unrasped crust, and unpared bars, on which a well-fitting shoe of the pro-
per length can rest firmly and securely, without making undue pressure
upon the seat of the corn. Corns, when treated only by paring out,
even though they may by such means be got rid of for a time, generally
reappear.

QUITTOR.

Synonym. — Fistula of the coronet.

Definition.— Quitter is described by Percivall as a hard, conical tumor,
liot and tender on pressure; indeed, sometimes so painful as to occasion
considerable lameness. It is an inflammation of the cartilages of the
foot, accompanied by a profuse discharge of pus, which burrows in vari-
ous directions, making fistulous channels, with usually several openings
upon the quarters and heels of the coronet.

Etiology. — The most common cause is a severe tread or bruise from
some other cause on the coronet. It may also arise from a neglected corn,
or from a bruise or prick of the sole.

DISEASES OF THE FEET. 231

Symptoms. — Usually lameness is very pronounced. The coronet
swells, sometimes to an enormous size, is hard to the touch. After a
time, the pus breaks through and is discharged as a thick, creamy fluid.

Treatment. — Whatever may have been the cause, the great mischief
arises, not so much from the original injury, as from the tendency of the
pus or matter to burrow and form sinuses in the interior of the foot.
Therefore, in all cases, our first aim must be to afford an easy and depend-
ing exit to the pus.

Eemove the shoe, and pare the sole clean, to see if the quittor has
been caused by a wound in that part. If it has, cut down on the brim
and open a channel for the pus to escape downward. If no sinuses have
formed, a linseed meal poultice:

Linseed meal i iv.

Olive oil § ss.

Boiling water 1 x.

Mix the linseed meal gi'adually with the water, and then add the oil with con-
stant stirring

and subsequent application of an astringent lotion:

Sulphate of zinc,

A.cetate of lead aa 3 ij.

Water 1 pint

will generally effect a cure. If sinuses have formed, they must be opened
freely, and either probed with the actual cautery, or with a mixture of
powdered corrosive sublimate and flour, viz. :

Corrosive chloride of mercury 3 i.

Flour • . I i.

Or, a still better practice is to syringe it out with a mixture of:

Corrosive chloride of mercury 3 i.

Water ! i.

Hydrochloric acid 3 or 4 drops

The latter is also the most simple method.

A thorough application of either of them will be followed by the

232 VETEKINAKY MEDICINE AND SUEGEKY.

sloughing of the diseased membrane in a day or two. The animal
should then begin to mend, and in two or three weeks ought to be again
fit for work. The application of the caustic should not be repeated
more than once or twice.

When the internal disease is removed, the treatment of the mere
sore at the coronet is easy. In fact, beyond keeping it clean, applying a
simple cold-water dressing, and occasionally an astringent lotion, as:

Collodion § x.

Carbolic acid . . . 3 i.

Tannin 3 iv.

little more need be done. Sometimes, however, there is a great tend-
ency to the growth of unhealthy granulations around the sore, which will
require to be checked by caustics or removed by the knife.

Great care must in all cases be taken to prevent the external sore
from healing over before the internal disease is thoroughly eradicated.
From the great vascularity of the parts in the neighborhood of the coro-
net, there is always an over-tende»cy to the healing action.

SANDCRACKS.

Definition. — A sandcrack is a longitudinal division in the fibres of
the wall of the hoof, amounting to a flaw simply, or else to a cleft or
fissure through the substance of the horn. It is usually found on the
inside in the fore-feet (quarter-crack. Fig. 121) and in front in the hind
feet (toe-crack, Fig. 122).

Etiology. — In most cases, the fissure is due to brittleness of the
crust. This brittleness may be constitutional, some horses being evidently
predisposed to it, but it is more often due to the evil practice of cutting
away the sole, and of rasping the crust. The fissure may also be a re-
sult of conti-action at the heels. Such contraction may arise from '
natural causes, but it is certain to be aggravated, if not produced, by the
practice of cutting away the bars, and so-called "opening" the heels.

Symptoms. — A sandcrack does not ordinarily cause lameness until
it has become suflficiently deep to expose the sensitive laminae, or until it
has extended to the coronary band. It is then excessively painful, and

DISEASES OF THE FEET.

233

the lameness is extreme; the crack may be seen to open as the horse
raises his foot, and close as he puts it down.

//// Jfilj

Fig. 121. Fig. 122.

Quarter-Crack. Toe-Crack.

Treatment. — With a knife scrape the sharp edges of the crack to its
bottom, until a clean groove has been formed. Wash out with white
lotion:

Sulphate of zinc,

Acetate of lead ... .aa 3 ij.

Tannin 3 ss.

Water 1 pint.

In all cases blister the coronet with:

Cantharides in powder § ss.

Lard § vi.

rubbing it in every two or three days, to stimulate the formation of new
horn.

If the crack does not extend the entire length of the hoof, draw a

234

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

deep furrow with a red-hot iron, at either end or both; not deep enough,
however, to cuuhc pain, but sufficient to stop the crack from extending.

Sandcrack, wlicn it occurs at the toe, usually extends the entire
length of the foot, and exposes the flesh, which is apt to become granu-
lated. In no case should these granulations be removed by caustic,
which only inflames the tissues more than before. When they have ap-
peared, cut them away with one stroke of a sharp knife. The loss of
blood which follows will be of advantage to the parts. Bathe with solu-
tion of chloride of zinc two or three times daily. When the inflammation
has subsided, the fissure may be drawn together by cutting a niche,
about a quarter of an inch deep, half or three-quarters of an inch from

Fio. 123.
Punch for closing eandcrack.

Fio. 134.
Clasps for sandcrack.

Fig. 1',T..
Pincers for closing sandcrack.

the crack on each side, and driving a flat-horse nail through from one to
tlio other; draw the ends togctlier tight and clinch them with pincers
and scrape smooth. It should bo remembered that the horn is thickest
below and becomes thinner toward the coronet, so that nails cannot be
driven very far up on the foot. Through all the treatment keep the foot
dry.

DISEASES OF THE FEET. 235

When, however, the fissure occurs on the side of the foot, this treat-
ment is inapplicjiblc, as the crust in that part is too thin to admit with
safety the insertion of a nail.

A very simple and easily applied clasp for the treatment is here
shown in Fig. 124. It may bo obtained, together with the necessary ap-
pliances for inserting and clinching it, from almost any surgical instru-
ment maker. The punch. Fig. 123, is heated to redness and applied so
as to burn a hole on each side of the crack. The clasp. Fig. 124, is then
taken in the pincers, Fig. 125, inserted in the holes, and squeezed to-
gether until the crack is closed.

The treatment of sandcrack, as regards shoeing, consists in removing
the shoes altogether. When the fissure is at the side, a three-quarter
bar shoo may often be beneficially applied. Tips are an almost certain
remedy for sandcrack. Sandcracks can always be got rid of, as long as
the coronary band remains entire; but if by neglect the disease is allowed
to involve the secreting substance, false quarter, or a i)ermanent separa-
tion in the crust at the quarter, may probably be the result.

Sandcracks being more or less constitutional, are apt to recur.

FALSE QUARTER.

Definition. — When any part of tlic coronary band is involved in
serious inflammation, its ordinary secretions are necessarily arrested. If
the inflammation is long continued, the vitality of the portion of the
band affected becomes wholly destroyed. As the crust is secreted from
the coronary band, it necessarily follows that there must be a break, or
separation in the crust immediately below the place where the injury to
the secreting surface has occurred. This separation is called false quar-
ter. Fig. 126.

Etiology. — The disease in the coronary band is usually the result of
a tread, or of quittor, or sandcrack, or of any external injury suflicicnt to
produce violent inflammation in the secreting substance, and consequent
arrest or its secretien.

Treatment. — As the secreting surface, when once destroyed, cannot
be restored, there is no cure, properly so called, for false quarter. All
that can be done is to restrict the disease within the narrowest possible

236

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

limits, and in adopting such measures of relief as may enable us most
Sjoeedily to work the animal again.

As the treatment of those diseases which terminate in false quarter
has elsewhere been given, we have only to deal with the result, namely,
the permanent separation in the crust. The earlier stage is usually ac-
companied with lameness, and the horse must be relieved from all work.
The detached portion of the horn on the side of the fissure must be re-
moved, and the fissure itself kept scrupulously clean; for the admission
of dirt or gravel will jiroduce irritation and delay the cure. If much pain
is present, it is advisable to apply a poultice, says:

Linseed meal,

Bran aa oz. iij

Boiling water 1 pint.

Mix gradually.

As soon as the acute symptoms have subsided, a plaster of tow and
tar should be applied to the fissure, with a view to keep out the dirt, and

Fig. 126.
False Quarter.

stimulate the parts to throw out new material. In a few weeks the
lameness will probably subside, and with the assistance of a three-quarter
shoe, which will prevent undue pressure and concussion on the seat of
the disease, the horse may be worked again.

DISEASES OF THE FEET.

237

In the course of time, although the legitimate secretion of the coro-
nary band is not restored, Nature will, from the surrounding parts,
throw out a species of spurious horn, which will sufficiently protect the
sensitive parts immediately under the seat of injury, the horse will be
again sound, for all practical purposes, and eventually the aid of a three-
quarter shoe may be dispensed with.

SEEDY TOE.

Deflnition. — This term is applied to a separation of the outer wall or
crust of the hoof from the inner layer of soft horn derived from the 1am-
inas. Fig. 127. It is caused by an irregular and unhealthy secretion of the
lower portion of the laminae, which is incapable of maintaining the union
between the above-named structures. The disease always commences in
the lower portion of the laminae, and extends upward and laterally.

F;g. 128.
Hoof cut for cure of seedy toe.

Thougn Known as seedy toe, the disease frequently affects the quarters,
and, more rarely, other parts of the circumference of the foot.

Etiology. — Seedy toe is often a result of laminitis. At other times
it may be caused by the pressure of the clip of the shoe. In some cases
it is due to constitutional causes. After the separation has taken place,
the disease is easily aggravated by dirt or gravel getting into the hollow
so formed. Lameness is not usually j^resent until the disease has run to
a very considerable extent upward. When any considerable degree of
separation has taken place, a hollow sound will be emitted on percussion.

Treatment. — All that portion of the crust which has become de-
tached from the laminae must be cut away with the knife; and if the disease

238 VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND SUEGEKY.

shows signs of extending, such further portions as may be necessary must
be cut away, until the line of union between the crust and inner layer is
smooth and undivided. Fig. 128. A bar shoe, without a toe clip, should
be applied, with a view to relieve the anterior portion of the foot. Rub
an ointment of:

Cantharides § ss.

Lard » 3 vi.

into the coronet every second or third day, and every day cover the newly
exposed surface with an ointment of:

Lard,

Turpentine aa^ viij.

Beeswax § ij.

Melt the lard and wax, and stir in the turpentine.

This will protect it from moisture. Keep the foot dry. It may take two
or three months for the hoof to become perfect. During this time feed
the horse liberally.

THRUSH.

Synonym , — Frush.

Definition. — Thrush is a disease of the frog, generally of the hind
feet, accompanied by a foul discharge through its horny covering. As
the disease advances, fissures occur in the side of the frog close to the heel,
from which a foetid matter exudes.

Etiology. — It is commonly due to dirt of some kind; wet unclean
stalls, obliging the horse to stand in his own manure, are the most frequent
causes of this disease, which is, therefore, a disgrace to the horse owner.
It may also be caused by tlie filthy and wholly inexcusable practice of
stopping the feet with cow dung or other filthy substances. Sometimes, f
in feet which have been for some time affected with navicular disease, a
similar effect is produced on the frog; because the horse, on account of
the disease, the seat of which is immediately above the frog, saves as much
as possible that portion of his feet, and treads on his toes. It is, however,
asignular fact that this effect on the frog is not often found in the

DISEASES OF THE FEET. 239

earlier stage of navicular disease. Again, in contracted feet, the sole is
generally so much recessed that the frog hardly ever comes to the ground,
and hence, from want of use, it becomes diseased.

Paring of the frog, independent of its injurious effect in removing
the frog from pressure, has also a further tendency to produce disease.

Symptoms. — Foul smell and slight lameness.

Treatment. — In the treatment of those cases which originate in dirt
and wet, first remove the cause and keep the frog scrupulously clean and
dry. Any ragged or partially detached parts should be removed with a
knife so as to open the cracks in and around the frog.

Having removed the cause, endeavor to absorb the discharge. This
is essential, because the discharge is of an acrid nature, and has in itself a
tendency to cause disintegration of the structure. The absorption of the
discharge will be best effected by inserting pledgets of tow, greased with
an ointment of calomel:

Chloride of mercury 3 i.

Lard § i.

in the cleft. The process of drying may also be assisted by the applica-
tion of:

Sulphate of zinc 3 iv.

Water 1 pint

or powdered burnt alum. The crust at the heels should be bound so as
to bring constant pressure upon the frog. Keep the foot dry.

"When the disease has its origin in navicular disease, grease, or some
habit of body, little more can be done than to keep the frog scrupulously
clean, and to dry up the discharge with the astringents, etc., just de-
scribed, as soon as it appears.

If thrush is long neglected, the neighboring parts become affected,
and in bad cases the whole of the sensitive sole is involved. The sole is
then said to be " under-run; " or, in other words, the unhealthy secretion,
being greatly increased and unable to find sufficient exit through the in-
sensitive frog, burrows between the sensitive and insensitive sole. The
disease, if still further neglected, may run into canker. The treatment
of serious cases of neglected or chronic thrush is nearly similar to that-
required in canker.

240 VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND SUKGERY.

CANKER.

Definition. — Canker is a morbid secretion of the sensitive frog and
sole, involving, of course, the corresponding insensitive parts.

Etiology. — This formidable disease usually has its origin in neglected
thrush, but it may be due to constitutional causes. It is not common in
this country.

Symptoms. — Williams says: The characteristic symptoms of the
disease are strongly marked, and consist of an abundant foetid, colorless
discharge from the frog, which is large, spongy, and covered by pallid,
stringy prominences of a fungoid nature, intermixed with offensive
smelling, semi-dried, cheesy masses of matter, composed of imperfect
horn cells.

It seems as if the various constituents of the horn were in an uncom-
bined state; the sulphur, which is a natural constituent, being secreted
as sulphuretted hydrogen, giving the characteristic foetor to the whole
secreted mass; horny matter imperfect, and floating in an abun-
dant liquid material; the secreting villi enlarged, scantily covered by a
thin pellicle of horn, giving them superficially a v/hite appearance, whilst
underneath they are turgid, congested, and humid.

Treatment. — The treatment of canker consists in the complete ex-
posure of the diseased surface, in the application of pressure, and in
thorough dryness.

The whole, not merely the diseased portion, but the whole of the in-
sensitive sole, must be removed. When this has been thoroughly and effec-
tively done, the whole of the exposed surface must be dressed with nitric
acid. The sole must then be firmly packed with dry tow, secured with
a bandage, and the foot inclosed in a leathern boot. This will give
the necessary pressure. To prevent excessive bleeding, from the removal
of the sole, a tourniquet should be applied to the fetlock. The foot,
bedding, and stall must be kept scrupulously dry.

After two days the dressing should be removed. In favorable cases,
the whole of the exposed surface of the foot will present a healthy apj^ear-
ance, and will gradually become covered with good horn, and no further
treatment will be required beyond cleanliness, dryness, mild astringents,
and moderately firm pressure and bandages. For at least a week after
the ojieration, the horse should stand without shoes. But as soon as the

DISEASES OF THE FEET. 241

feefc are able to bear shoes, they should be applied, as it is much easier to
dress the feet with shoes on.

But the more aggravated cases will continue to present fungoid ele-
vations and morbid secretions, and will require repeated dressings with
powerful caustics. The dressing should be changed every day, as after
a few applications the same remedy seems to lose it effect. Chromic, sul-
phuric, and other acids may be used in turn. The following are also
recommended:

Caustic chloride of mercury . . . . § ss.

Hydrochloric acid trix.

Alcohol , I iv.

Or,

Tar liv.

Nitric acid .sufficient.

Pour the acid on the tar and stir rapidly until well mixed and effervescence is
complete.

Or, sulphuric acid may be substituted for the nitric acid.

Care, however, must be taken not to continue the use of strong
caustics too long, or the whole sensitive sole will be destroyed and necro-
sis of the bones induced, followed by great sloughing, and perhaps the
death of the patient. After a time, therefore, instead of the above,
burnt alum, sulphate of copper, terchloride of iron, chloride of zinc,
sulphate of iron, logwood, and other astringents, may be tried. Carbo-
lic acid may also be used. Most cases improve under firm pressure, but
in others long-continued pressure seems to stimulate the diseased action
and the growth of fungus. It is scarcely possible to lay down a positive
rule. The symptoms of each case must be carefully watched and treat-
ment applied accordingly. In all cases, except for the first two days,
the dressing should be removed daily.

The general health must be carefully attended to. A purgative:

Aloes 3 vi.

Ginger 3 ij-

Linseed meal,

Molasses. aa sufficient

or a diuretic:
16

242 VETERINAKY MEDICINE AND SUEGERY.

Nitrate of potassium 3 ij.

In water twice daily.

will probably be beneficial in the first instance, followed after a time by
tonics, as sulphate of iron or quinine. Good dry food, fresh air, great
cleanliness, and a dry stable and bedding are essential.

NAVICULAR DISEASE.

Synonym. — Navicular arthritis.

Definition. — Navicular disease, in its primary stage, is inflammation
of the lower side of the navicular bone. After a time the neighboring
parts, viz., the perforans tendon which passes under the bone, and its
cartilage and bursa become involved.

Etiology. — Navicular disease is commonly due to the effect of con-
cussion; more rarely to nails, stones, etc., picked up by the foot.

It will be remembered that the navicular bone acts as a roller for the
passage of the perforans tendon, which passes under it and is attached
to the coflSn bone. Hence the navicular bone is peculiarly liable to suf-
fer from the effect of concussion.

Navicular disease occurs most frequently in feet with narrow and
high heel. It rarely affects the hind feet.

The primary disease is inflammation of the navicular bone. The
parts subsequently involved are the cartilage covering its inferior surface,
the synovial membrane, the bursa of the tendon (flexor pedis perforans)
passing under the bone, and ultimately the tendon itself. This tendon
passes under the bone, as a rope under a pulley.

The inflammation which has been set up in the bone, leads to u vari-
ety of changes, both in its external and internal structure. In some
cases the bone gradually wastes away until at last it becomes liable to
fracture from any trivial cause. In other cases, an ossific deposit takes
place upon the outside of the bone. This deposit limits the free play of
the tendon, which gradually adheres to the bone, and its bursa becomes
absorbed. In other cases, the fibres of the tendon split up, sometimes
from friction against the roughened surface of the diseased bone, but
n^.ore frequently as the result of degeneration caused by inflammatory

DISEASES OF THE FEET. 243

action which has extended to it from the bone. Ultimately the tendon
may give way altogether.

Symptoms. — Lameness may appear suddenly, and without any ap-
parent cause. It may disappear and after a time reappear, either in the
same or in the other foot, and thus go on for some time. This occurs as
a rule when the disease is due to rheumatism. In time the symptoms
become more marked, and, in most cases, the first is pointing of the foot
in the stable, also when at rest outside, followed by shortness in the step
and lameness. The foot and the horse may be examined, and nothing
wrong be found. Probably the next day the animal may be apparently
sound. But in the course of a few days the symptoms reappear andnsu-
ally are more marked than at first.

Pointing in the stable is common with many horses as an act of rest,
or as a mere matter of habit. When, however, pointing arises either
from habit, or as an act of rest, the animal stands squarely upon one
fore-foot and allows the other to take a semi-flexed position in a careless,
lounging way; but he points two feet simultaneously; namely, one fore
and the other hind foot of the opposite side. In navicular disease, how-
ever, a fore-foot or feet only are pointed; there is no corresponding rest-
ing of the hind limb.

The above signs may leads us to suspect navicular disease as the cause
of lameness. But the strongest indication of the disease lies in the ab-
sence of any observable cause, such as external injury or heat, sufficient
otherwise to account for the lameness. The fact of intermittent lame-
ness in the earlier stage, and of persistent lameness in the latter stage,
without any external symptoms sufficient to account for it, are the
strongest indications that the disease is in the navicular bone.

The symptoms of lameness are evidently those of foot lameness. If
laminitis be present, there will be heat and tenderness, and the animal
will travel more or less on its heels. If a corn be the cause, its presence
is easily detected. In fact, in nearly every other form of disease, there
are external signs which will at once point to its cause. But in navicu-
lar disease, if we except occasional heat and tenderness in the hollow of
the heel, or redness of the frog and sole immediately below the navicular
bursa, there is no external sign. Even the redness of the frog and
sole, now and then met with, is not always to be depended upon as a sign
of navicular disease, as it may arise from external injury, such as tread-
ing on a stone, and may be superficial only.

244 VETEKINAEY MEDICINE AND SUKGERY.

In the more advanced stage, the horse will often come out of his stable
stiff and lame after an interval of rest. He may scarcely be able to put
his foot to the ground, but after he has been exercised a short time, the
great lameness will disappear, especially if the ground be soft. This is
very characteristic of the disease.

From the above it will be seen that the symptoms of navicular disease
are negative rather than positive. If the signs of the lameness are those
of foot lameness, and if, after due examination, no other adequate cause
can be discovered, we have reason to suspect navicular disease.

In all cases of long standing, the foot or feet become contracted. In
some cases the atrophy extends to the muscles of the shoulders and fore-
arm. This wasting away is due simply to the decreased use which the
horse makes of his fore-hand in action, on account of the disease existing
in his fore-feet.

Treatment. — The shoes should be removed, the frogs allowed to
touch the ground^ and blood taken from the toe or coronary plexus. The
feet should be placed in a cold-water bath for some hours during the day,
and in a poultice at night:

Ground linseed § iv.

Olive oil |ss.

Boiling water i pint.

Mix the meal gradually with the water, and then add the oil, stirring.

During the time the feet are in the bath, the horse's head must be tied
up, but at other times he should be encouraged to lie down by keeping
him in a well-ventilated, dark stall, with the view to take the weight off
the feet. This method of treatment, with an occasional purgative and a
cooling diet, has proved most successful. At the end of a fortnight,
whether the lameness be removed or not, a mild blister around the coro
net will be beneficial, as:

Biniodide of mercury 3 ss.

Lard 1 i.

Mix intimately.

If these remedies prove ineffectual, a seton must be passed through
the frog. After the seton has been introduced, the shoes should be
lightly tacked on, for the purpose of relieving the now inflamed frog from

DESCRIPTION OF PLATE IV.

LAMINITIS OR FEVER IN THE FEET. (Percival.)

A longitudinal section has, in this Plate, been made of the near fore foot

from the fetlock downwards.
It will be observed that the cofl&n-bone (a), which, had it been in its
normal or natural position, would have lain slanting parallel to, as
well as in close apposition with, the wall of the hoof {b, c), has its
too (d), instead of being advanced to c, descending and resting
upon the middle of the sole, which, from the pressure of it, has
bulged (at d), or, as farriers say, become pumice.
The dislocation or tilting of the coflQn-bone upon the sole, necessarily
causes a space within the foot between it and the wall of the hoof
{e, f). This, we find, becomes filled up with a sort of callus,
which in the course of time undergoes a gradual transformation
into horny substance: as is intended to be shown by the yellow tint
the drawing exhibits in the middle portions of the callus.

g, Section of the pastern bone.

li, Section of the coronet bone.

k. Section of the posterior parts of the foot.

* i i. Sections of the tendons.

PLATE IV.

^H,>.)L'c'lLc'n olicHfiucj I tic r)ca[ aixd inlcinaL akKcatanci

CM AaiULUiUo.

.BENCKE, LITH

DISRASE8 OF THE FELT. 245

pressure. The seton should be dressed daily and allowed to remain for
about three weeks or a month. The foot must be kept clean. After the
seton is removed, the frog must be examined. It will usually be found
to be under-run between the two orifices by purulent matter. The de-
tached horn must be removed and the exposed part dressed with tar.

If structural changes have not taken place, this plan of treatment will
usually be found effective; but if the lameness continues after a month
has elapsed from the date of the removal of the seton, further treatment
will be useless. The animal may be fit for easy work. As a rule, the
disease will increase and in time render the horse useless.

The pain, however, though not the disease, may be removed by neu-
rotomy. Under the influence of this operation the animal may go with-
out lameness for some time. But it must be remembered that the disease
is not removed by the operation. The usual result is that the hoof de.
cays and falls off.

Neurotomy, or the division of the nerve leading to the back part of
the foot, is useful in destroying the pain which arises from navicular dis-
ease. The operation is very simple, but should only be performed by one
who has a thorough knowledge of the parts and of surgical operations.

It may be applied when the foot or feet are good and strong, and
where the action is not extravagant. It will prove injurious where the
feet are thin or weak at the heels, or whei*e the soles are full or the action
is high. In such eases, fever in the feet will probably ensue, as the
horse, being relieved of all sensibility in his feet, will indulge in freer
action than is good for the health of a weak structure.

In favorable cases, the horse may go without lameness for some time,
but in the end the increase of the disease will cause a complete break-
down of the foot.

Horses which have been unnerved are obviously unsafe off a level road
for some time.

LAMINmS.
(see plate IV.)

Synonyms. — Founder; Fever in the feet; Inflammation of the feet.
Defiuition. — Laminitis is in its simple form inflammation of the sen-
sitive laminae which cover the outer and upper surface of the pedal bone.

246 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

They consist of five or six hundred very fine folds, and are profusely sup-
plied with blood-vessels and nerves. The original attack is always acute.
It may be entirely relieved and no ill-effects remain. But often a change
of structure results from the effects of the :«cute attack. This after-result
is known as chronic laminitis. Horses suffering from it are subject to
recurrence of the acute disease. Laminitis is very painful, and the lame-
ness is excessive. The pain is due to confinement of the products effused
by the inflammation within the outer hard, unyielding case of the foot,
and the pressure thereby caused on the sensitive structures of the inte-
rior. The seat of the disease is in the anterior portion of the foot.

Etiology. — The immediate cause, most frequently, is concussion.
The fore-feet are more often affected than the hind, because concussion
is most severely felt in them. Excitement, over-exertion, and indiges-
tion are also frequent causes. The disease, however, in many cases is
due to metastasis, or the sudden shifting of inflammation existing in
some other organ of the body, to the feet. Long and fast driving on'
hard roads, especially after a period of comparative idleness, conduces to
the disease.

Both feet, either hind or fore, are usually affected. Similar causes
generally affect both feet, and therefore produce similar results. Some-
times all four feet are affected. When one foot only is affected, the
cause is generally some injury of the opposite foot, which has led the
horse to throw all the weight on the previously sound foot.

Symptoms. — The symptoms of laminitis are very marked. The at-
tack occurs very suddenly. The horse can hardly be got to move. He
seems as if all his body were cramped.

There is heat in the feet affected. As the seat of the disease is in the
anterior portion of the feet, the animal will save that portion of his feet
as much as possible, and will throw his weight on his heels. The dis-
ease is intensely painful. On account of the pain the pulse is always
accelerated.

If the two fore-feet only are affected, the hind legs will be drawn
under the belly, and the fore-feet advanced so as to take the weight off
them as much as possible. If the two hind feet only are affected, he
will stand with his fore-feet back under his body and his hind feet
brought forward, so as to throw the weight upon the heels. If all four
feet are affected, the symptoms will be a combination of the above.
Dick says, to diagnosticate a case quickly, the best method is to push

DISEASES OF THE FEET. 24:7

the animal backward, when it will be seen at once that he will elevate
his toes and throw his weight upon the heels. The pulse of lamini-
tis is full, strong, and accelerated.

Treatment. — First endeavor to relieve the local inflamniatian exist-
ing within the feet. Mild purgatives should be given, and if the bowels
are torpid, injections of warm water should be administered. But
powerful medicines will do serious mischief, on account of the irritability
of the system in this disease.

On no account give strong cathartics, especially aloes, as we should
avoid irritating the mucous membrane of the intestines. Give a pint
of linseed oil, and assist the effect with an injection or two of warm water
(100° F.). If there is purgation already, or if the faeces are covered
with mucus — a condition which indicates irritation — give no aperient.
In the case of diarrhoea, do not give astringents, as the purging is but
an effort of nature to remove the cause of irritation. Kemove the shoes
and rasp the wall level with the sole, so as to allow the latter structure
and the frog to bear the weight. On no account pare the sole. Give
the horse plenty of water to drink, and put him on laxative food. If
the pain be very excessive, give two ounces of tincture of oj^ium, but do
not do so if its use can be dispensed with, because it is best to keep up
a loose condition of the bowels. In any case give two ounces of the bi-
carbonate of sodium twice a day in the food, and if the fever be high,
with a quick, full, and hard pulse, give the following drench :

Fleming's tincture of aconite gtt. vij.

Water 1 pint.

This may be repeated once or twice, with intervals of three or four
hours, as indicated by the pulse. The soda has a most soothing effect
on the mucous membrane, while the aconite is a sedative to the heart.
If ther^be great heat in the feet and throbbing of the plantar arteries,
bleed from the coronary plexus at three or four points; this may easily
be done by puncturing the coronet obliquely with a lancet or penknife.
Do not bleed from the toe, for doing so will expose the inflamed parts to
the action of the air, and suppuration with the formation of matter (pus)
may be the result. By bleeding from the coronary plexus, a local effect
is obtained without weakening the whole system, as would be the case
were the jugular vein opened. Keep the feet for a considerable time in

248 VETEKINAEY MEDICINE AND SUEGERY.

a tub of warm water, and apply poultices for a few days. Allow the
horse to lie down as much as possible; if he will not do so of his own ac-
cord, throw him gently. The advisability of this is shown by the pulse,
after the horse is down, always falling in a most marked manner.

The diet, if possible, should be grass; or, if grass cannot be obtained,
bran mashes. An extra substantial bed of old litter is essential. Na-
ture must do the rest.

In favorable cases, that is, where the inflammation is not very severe,
and its effused products are taken up by the aborbents, there will be no
structural alteration, and in due course the horse will be sound again,
though always more or less liable to recurrence of the disease.

But in unfavorable cases, there will be an alteration of structure,
and the result will be chronic laminitis.

The alteration of structure caused by the inflammation usually con-
sists of a separation between the sensitive and insensitive laminae and is
termed chronic laminitis. In consequence of this loosening of attach-
ment, the anterior point of the cofiin bone descends and presses on the
sole. The sole being pressed upon, also descends and loses its concave
shape, and becomes convex and weak. The anterior j)ortion of the
crust, having in some measure lost its attachment, becomes weak and
bulges out anteriorly. There is a large mass of .imperfectly formed horn
at the toe.

Treatment. — The frog and sole should remain untouched by the
knife, and the crust filed down so as to produce a flat foot, bringing
the pressure on the sole as well as the crust. Pressure on the frog is
also most essential.

A little cantharides ointment:

Cantharides § ss.

Lard 5 vi.

may be rubbed into the coronet every four or five days, to stimulate in-
creased growth of horn.

Let the animal stand on something soft in his stall — spent tan, straw,
etc.

DISEASES OF THE FEET. 249

SIDEBONES.

Synonym. — Ossified cartilages.

Definition. — This disease, otherwise known as Sidehones, consists in
ossification of the elastic lateral cartilages or wings of the bone of the
foot, Fig. 129. Nature has substituted cartilage for bone in this part in
order to give greater elasticity towards the heels. Any alteration in this
structure, such as its conversion into bone, must interfere with the elas-
ticity of the tread, though it may not occasion positive lameness. The

Fig. 129.
Ossification of the Lateral CartUages— Sidebonea.

bony deposit may, however, be so extensive as to materially alter the shape
of the coffin bone; and in such cases lameness will be the inevitable
result.

Heavy coarse cart horses are most subject to this disease, and in them
the deposit is often very large. In light horses it seldom becomes so large
as to be visible to the eye. The change in structure, however, is easily
ascertained by feeling the wings of the bone of the foot. If they are
affected with ossification, they will be hard and immovable instead of
elastic.

Etiology. — Sidebones are generally supposed to be the result of
inflammation set up in the lateral cartilages by excessive concussion or by
an accidental blow, wound, or tread. The tendency of cartilaginous
structures under the influence of inflammation to become absorbed and
replaced by bone has been already noticed.

It is probable, however, that they also frequently arise from the practice

250

VETEKINAKY MEDICINE AND 6DKGERY.

of slioeing heavy draft horses with large calks, which prevent the heels
from coming to the ground and thereby deprive them of their natural
elastic motion at each tread. When a part intended by nature for motion
is long deprived of that action, we frequently find that it becomes solid-
ified. This result is often found in joints, when long deprived of motion.

Others, however, whilst agreeing that high calkings are a frequent
jiredisposing cause, think that they produce their injurious effect by caus-
ing undue pressure and concussion on the back of the foot and hence excite
inflammation in the part.

Sidebones, in common with exostoses in other parts, sometimes have
their origin in hereditary predisposition.

Symptoms. — A hard swelling at the back of the coronet and heels.
Mayliew gives the accompanying illustration of his method of testing for
sidebones. Fig. 130. " When the hand thus grasps and forcibly presses

Fig. 130.
Mayhew's test for Sidebones.

the part, instead of feeling the substances under them yield, the hand is
sensible of something hard as stone, or approaching it. This being
proof i^ositive the cartilages are ossified, or becoming so."

There is no cure. If the cartilages are still undergoing change, blister
the coronet with ointment of cantharides:

Cantharides in powder § ss.

Lard ... 5 iij.

Digest in a water bath (a tin kettle, which will set inside of a larger one partly
filled with water, wiU answer) for two or more hours, and filter whUe hot through
blotting paper. Use when cold.

DISEASES OF THE FEET. 251

This will hasten the inflammatory process, and as soon as the change in
the structure of the cartilage is complete, the lameness will cease. The
elasticity of the step will be lost, and the gait become stiff and unnatural.
Let the animal rest as much as possible until the inflammation has
entirely subsided.

TREAD.

Synonym.— Calking.

Definition. — Tread is an injury of the coronet of the foot.

Etiology. —Most common with heavy work horses, and usually occurs
in the hind feet, and during cold weather, when the horses are shod with
sharp heel calks. Generally inflicted by the shoe of the other foot in
turning, backing, or shying, and, very rarely, by a tramp from another
horse.

Treatment. — If the bleeding is excessive, it may be stopped by band-
aging with a rag soaked in:

Tincture of chloride of iron 3 i.

Water | i.

Afterward wash clean and treat as for over-reach.

OVER-REACH.

Etiology. — Over-reach is a wound of the heel of the fore-foot,
usually made by a blow struck by the inner edges of the toe of the hind
shoe.

Treatment. — Eemove any jagged ends with a sharp knife, and apply
tincture of myrrh or tincture of arnica; keep dry, and generally the
wound will soon heel. If, however, the heel is badly bruised, after
paring the lower ends, bathe it three times a day with:

Chloride of zinc gr. i.

Water | i.

As quittor is a possible sequence of an over-reach, it should never be
neglected.

CHAPTEE XI.

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES.

Influenza, Pink Eye, Catarrhal Fever, Epizootic Catarrh, Horse Distemper,
Horse Sickness, Febris Pyogenica, Colt Distemper, Colt III, Strangles, Glan-
ders, Farcy, Equina, Erysipelas, Purpura Hemorrhagica, Spotted Fever,
Scarlatina, Scarlet Fever, Rheumatism, Dropsy, Ascites, CEdema, Hydro-
thorax.

INFLUENZA.

Synonyms. — Pink eye; Catarrhal fever; Epizootic catarrh; Horse
distemper; Horse sickness.

Definition. — Influenza is an epizootic febrile disease, accompanied
by loss of appetite, great prostration of strength, and often complicated
with- disease of the liver, lungs, and mucous membranes generally, and
sometimes with affections of the heart. In all cases the nervous system
is affected to a great extent, and indeed, most of the more prominent
symptoms may be regarded mainly as results of depression of the nervous
centres. The cause of this depression is the presence of a specific poison
in the blood. The respiratory organs are always involved. Influenza
generally prevails as an epizootic, and is considered by some to be con-
tagious.

Etiology. — Influenza has its origin in some peculiar and unknown
condition of the atmosphere, which exercises a specific injurious influence
on the health of animals.

Other causes, such as bad ventilation, dirty stables, an insufficient
supply of nutritious food, bad forage, or debility, predispose to the dis-
ease. Animals crowded together in damp, ill-ventilated, and otherwise
unhealthy situations, are generally the first to suffer from influenza. In
them it commits its greatest havoc. Young horses are more predisposed

254 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

than those of maturer years; still, the old suffer severely and are often
carried away. Sex has no influence. Neglect, of every description, as
well as bad food and overwork, by debilitating, render animals subject to
severe and early attacks of disease. But no amount of care will exempt
them from it, as it appears in the stables of the rich as well as of the poor.
The latter, however, experience it in its greatest intensity and at a much
earlier period than the former.

Symptoms. — Influenza, in different years and in different places,
varies much in its intensity and in some of its symptoms. In some sea-
sons it assumes more of an inflammatory character, whilst in others it
takes a low form. The description of symptoms given below will have
reference to the general type of the disease rather than to the peculiar
features which may be abnormally present in any particular outbreak.

In mild cases, for the first two or three days the horse is observed to
be dull, weak, and dispirited; generally sweats on exertion; the bowels
are slightly constipated; the fseces are paler than usual, and there may
be occasionally cough. If the patient is promptly removed to a loose box
and carefully treated, these symptoms may pass off (probably in the form
of catarrh and a disposition to swelling of the legs) without the necessity
for recourse to any active treatment.

More often, however, they are followed by others of a more urgent
nature. The horse refuses his food, or grinds it; his coat looks unhealthy,
the urine becomes scanty, the fseces pale and scanty, the surface of the
dung pellets is glazed and perhaps partially coated with muco-lymph; the
mouth becomes hot and unnaturally dry, or it may be pasty, particularly
at the back of the tongue; and the mucous membrane altogether, and es-
pecially round the gums, is of yellowish-red hue, as is also the conjuncti-
val membrane of the eyelids. The pulse is quick and oppressed, perhaps
70 per minute, but at the same time feeble, and the breathing is quick.
The temperature rises to 103 to 105° Fahrenheit. The horse appears to
be suffering from intense headache, and if made to move he staggers in
his walk. These symptoms point very clearly to the nervous centres
being functionally deranged, especially the brain.

These symptoms may remain much the same for two or three days,
except that the pulse may become a little quicker, 80 to 90, and more
feeble, and the respiration quicker and shorter.

If the horse is well nursed, and proper attention is paid to the venti-
lation, he will most likely recover without the assistance of medicine.

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AMD ENZOOTIC DISEASES. 255

At other times the disease is ushered in and accompanied by weeping
of the eyes, swelling of the eyelids and of the legs, and under the belly,
and all other usual signs of extreme debility. Even in the very early
stage the patient may be so prostrated as to require the assistance fo
several men to remove him to a loose box. In these cases the strength
requires to be supported at once by the administration of stimulants, such
as:

Carbonate of ammonia,

Gentian aa, ^ ij.

Linseed meal,

Molasses aa sufficient

Make 8 balls. Give one every 13 hours.

With care and good nursing the threatened attack may pass off in a few
days.

The discharge of purulent matter from the nose, in the early stage, is
a good sign, and indicates that the disease is becoming milder. Favor-
able progress is also marked by the urine being discharged more fre-
quently, and in greater quantities, and not so high colored; and by the
dung becoming of a proper consistence, and soft instead of being voided
in hard pellets. A slight tendency to oedema in this stage is also a favor-
able sign. It is one of r.ature's means of giving relief, and often prevents
the occurrence of mischief in important internal organs. But in the later
stages it is a symptom of the inability of nature any longer to continue
the conflict with the disease.

Should the disease, whether it has commenced in the one way or the
other, not take a favorable turn, the mucous membranes will become
seriously involved, indicated by the heightened color. The discharge from
the nose, instead of being purulent, will be suppressed and scanty, or it
may be serous and straw-colored. The throat will become sore, as indi-
cated by a difficulty in swallowing even water. The breathing becomes
quickened, and the patient may cough somewhat frequently. The sup-
pressed character of the cough points to the mucous membrane of the
bronchige being involved.

In other cases an unfavorable turn is indicated by the occurrence of fits
of shivering, by the breathing being somewhat embarrassed, by the pulse
being increased in frequency and very small in volume. The fits of
shivering may or may not recur. Profuse perspiration sometimes super-
venes on the rigors, and always temporarily relieves the breathing.

256 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

The treatment up to this point consists in diffusible stimulants and
plenty of cool fresh air. If the patient's constitution is good, a favorable
change may be expected.

If the attack at this juncture does not take a favorable turn, the
symptoms will probably become more intense. The membrane of the
nose may become mulberry red, and in very bad cases the discharge may
be tinged with streaks of blood. In some cases there may be a discharge
of muco-pus from the eyes. The legs often swell, especially the hind ones,
and there may probably be swellings in the sheath and under the belly.
A tendency to oedema often exists about the larynx and glottis, and serum
may be effused into the air cells and structure of the lungs, or along the
spinal cord, or in the cavities of the brain. The animal may wander un-
consciously around the box, and look at his sides and paw occasionally as
though in pain. At this critical stage great care and caution are needed
in the management of the case. Stimulants may be employed, but
powerful sedatives are very injurious. The nervous centres are already
paralyzed, and digitalis, belladonna, and such like agents will only in-
crease the mischief. The feeble flickering flame of life must be roused,
not extinguished by sedatives. Even spontaneous diarrhoea is to be
dreaded, and far more the excessive purgation which is likely to result
from a dose of aloes given to the animal so debilitated.

At this stage the disease often assumes an intermittent form, and tlie
animal alternately gains strength for a time and relapses. Even if the
animal survives, chronic cough, defective respiration, skin disease, rheu-
matism, or paralysis are often after-results of such extreme development
of influenza.

When a case is about to terminate fatally, the pulse will be found to
falter and sink, and as final cold sweats will break out. Death generally
occurs about the sixth day, but the case may be protracted to about the
fourteenth day.

Throughout the attack it must not be forgotten that the inaction of
the bowels is often mainly dependent on want of sufficient nervous tone
and energy. There is often no undue hardness of the faeces, but rather
the contrary. The proper action of the bowels will best be restored by
the administration of stimulants and tonics. In some cases injections
of tepid water and linseed oil are useful.

There is sometimes a strong disposition to gangrene in wounds in horses
suffering from influenza of a low type. Ulcerous sores or simple wounds

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES. 257

take on an unhealthy action from no apparent cause, and this action ex-
tends to neighboring parts, and sloughs may result. Great caution should
therefore be used in applying strong blisters or setons in influenza, even
if for other reasons they were not objectionable.

When an animal is recovering from a severe attack of influenza vre
must not expect any great and rapid improvement. The change will be
gradual. We must wait patiently, and be satisfied to look on and seek
to aid nature in the gradual restoration of the system. After a bad case
there will be, during convalescence, frequent changes, slight accessions
of fever, inequality of heat and cold on the surface of the body and legs,
and slight shiverings. The appetite will only slowly return, and will be
irregular in character. It is always a good sign to see the horse lying
down, and comfortable in that position, especially if the breathing is not
accelerated by it.

The treatment during convalescence is simply good nursing and care-
fully regulated administration of tonics.

In most cases the liver is functionolly deranged, more or less affected,
and there is a peculiar straw-colored discharge from the nostrils.

Treatment. — The great aim must be to sujoport the animal through
the disease, and enable nature to get rid of the morbid material in the
system.

Good nursing is the primary requisite. Keep the body warm, with
blankets if necessary. Let the food consist of warm bran mashes, or
boiled oats, and mix one-half ounce of nitrate of potassium in the food
once a day, and give plenty of water to drink. It is a good plan to keep
water where the horse can get at it at all times. In mild cases no active
treatment will be needed and the animal will begin to recover in from
four to six days.

The medical treatment consists mainly in avoiding drastic purgatives
and strong sedatives. Saline agents, however, such as sulphate of mag-
nesia (Epsom salts) in doses of from one and a half to two ounces for
several days, or Robertson recommends:

Nitrate of potassium 3 ij-

Powdered camphor,

Ext. belladonna aa 3 ss.

Sweet spirits of nitre 31. to 3 ij.

Acetate of ammonia § iv.

Twice a day.

258 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

This will act beneficially in lowering the fever and changing the condition
of the blood which in influenza always becomes dark-colored as the dis-
ease proceeds.

When, however, the fever is accompanied with much prostration, it
will be advisable to give sweet spirits of nitre in doses of from one to two
ounces, at intervals of about four hours. If the prostration increases,
a draught of

Carbonate of ammonia 3 ij.

Camphor,

Ginger aa3i.

In those forms where the abdominal complications are prominent
features, the horse inclined to be restless and occasionally lying down
and rising again, as if suffering from colic, with a confined condition of
the bowels, it will be needful to give .our attention to relieve this restless-
ness and pain; enemata of tepid water or tepid water and oil, with the
application to the abdomen of woollen cloths wrung from pretty warm
water, are often sufficient to attain the end desired.

Where the pain is more persistent, or where the confined state of the
bowels is accompanied with a distinct yellow condition of the visible
mucous membranes, it will most jorobably be needful to exhibit a mode-
rate dose of linseed oil, to which has been added one or two ounces of
tincture of opium, or from ten to fifteen drops of Fleming's tincture of
aconite, while the hot-water applications to the abdomen may be sup-
plemented with smart friction with soap or ammonia liniment ; while
where pain is the prominent feature, and not accompanied by marked
constipation, it is readily enough relieved by subcutaneous injection of:

Magendie's solution of morphia tii^xx. to "nixl.

When both pain and constipation have continued more or less trouble-
some for some days, with a foul condition of the mouth and tongue, the
animal all the time continuing to partake occasionally of a little mash,
an endeavor ought to be made to induce it to take along with the mash
a certain quantity of linseed oil, or a rather full allowance of sulphate
of soda. In such cases, the exhibition twice daily in bolus of half a
drachm of opium and twenty grains of calomel, together with the oil,
will prove efficacious in removing or relieving the pain and confined con-
dition of the bowels.

GENERAL, COJSTTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES. 259

If the throat is sore and swallowing difficult, smear a small portion of
the following electuary on the tongue occasionally:

Powdered camphor § iv.

Powdered myrrh,

Nitrate of potassium aa § viij.

Ext. belladonna 3 ij.

Powdered licorice root § viij.

Molasses sufficient.

And a counter-irritant to the throat may assist in relieving it:

Soap liniment ^ pint

Strong liquid ammonia 3 ij.

Mix;

if the lungs are affectea, rub this liniment upon the chest also. The
application must be mild, and only to the extent of exciting a smart
irritation, not to the extent of blistering.

Steaming with the nose-bag will be useful and grateful to the patient,
during the dry stage of the inflammation.

The warmth of the body and legs must be maintained by blankets and
bandages.

As the disease abates, the medicines should be gradually withdrawn.
The debility which supervenes will require most careful nursing, and if
the appetite is irregular, tonics will be needed, as:

Bicarbonate of sodium,

Powdered gentian aa | ss.

Powdered nux vomica gr. xx.

This is one dose; give morning and evening.

Or some may prefer:

Sulphate of iron 3 ss.

Mixed in the food; to be given twice a day.

This will improve the quality of the blood. It should be discontinued as
soon as the dung becomes dark-colored.

260 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Horses recovering from influenza are sometimes attacked with a skin
disease, which consists in the skin being wholly or partially covered with
little flattened lumps. In chronic cases, the cuticle peels off and leaves
as many bare spots as there were lumps; but more often the lumps disap-
pear spontaneously in a short time.

Rheumatism is an occasional after-result, as are also roaring, whis-
tling, and chronic cough.

STRANGLES.

Synonym. — Colt distemper.

Definition. — Strangles is a disease usually attended with an eruptive
fever, generally appearing before the horse is five years old. The local
symptoms usually manifest themselves in, or in connection Avith, one or
other of the glandular structures. Most commonly the submaxillary
and parotid glands become inflamed, and suppuration afterwards takes
place in the connecting tissue and its neighborhood.

In favorable cases the tumor usually occurs in the submaxillary space,
and terminates in an abscess in the cellular tissue and textures covering
the glands.

Strangles, though a debilitating disease, in general leaves no injurious
effects. On the contrary the patient usually thrives Avell afterwards, es-
pecially if the suppurative process has gone on favorably. If, however,
the eruptive fever is checked by injudicious treatment, or the animal is
too weak to throw out the eruj)tion, he Avill not do well.

Etiology. — There are various theories as to the cause of this disease,
but none which satisfactorily account for it. By some it is considered
infectious, though this is hardly probable. Few horses escape it alto-
gether, but rarely or never have it a second time.

Symptoms. — The horse is sick and off his feed, and perhaps has a slight
catarrh with feverish symptoms. The coat becomes harsh and staring
and the animal hide bound. In a day or two the glands under the jaw or
behind the ear begin to swell. Partly from the effect of the fever which
accomj)anies the attack, and i)artly from symi^athy, the throat also becomes
sore; and although evidently thirsty, there is much hesitation and diffi-
culty in swallo'ving, with much slobbering and some acceleration of the
breathing. AVilliams describes the symptoms as follows, viz. :

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES.

261

Strangles manifests itself in three ways.

Is^. It commences with the common symptoms of a mild catarrhal
affection. The animal is somewhat dull, has a slight cough, some sore-
ness of throat, a disinclination to feed, and more or less inability to swal-
low. The submaxillary space swells, is hot and tender, the swelling
filling up the whole space or confined to one side only; and is either dif-
fused or circumscribed. There is generally some dribbling of saliva from
the mouth, and a discharge from the nostrils. Fig. 131. In most in-
stances the pulse is somewhat hurried, and the respiratory movements
slightly increased.

Fig. 131.
Symptoms of strangles.

2d. For some weeks, or even months, prior to tlie local manifestation
of the disease, the animal is unthrifty, loses flesh, becomes hide bound,
drawn up at the flank; if at grass, stands apart from his fellows, has
more or less cough, often stretches himself as if fatigued, shivers on the
application of slight cold, his coat stares, his growth is arrested. The
horseman says that " he is breeding strangles," and time confirms the
correctness of this opinion, the local signs of the disease becoming de-
yeloped, and very often to a more severe extent than in the first form.

dd. The premonitory signs are those Avhich have given the name to
the disease, namely, those simulating strangulation, with great diiiiculty
of respiration, accompanied by a loud trumpet-like sound, emitted more
especially during inspiration. This sound may arise from spasm of the
muscles that close the glottis, namely, the crico-thyroideus, crico-
arytenoideus lateralis, tliyro-arytenoideus, etc.; or from an oedema-

262 VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

tous condition of it (oedema glottidis). If from the first cause, the in.
spiratory sound only is lieard; but if from the second, both movements
may be accompanied by the roaring noise, the inspiratory to a greater ex-
tent than the expiratory.

When the tumor forms regularly in the submaxillary space, and is of
the ordinary size, the abscess generally comes to maturity without much
trouble or inconvenience.

If, however, it is situated high up towards the parotid glands, the
distress in the breathing will often be very great, and the feverish symp-
toms will run high. The noisy breathing, which forms so marked a
feature in most severe cases, and from which the disease obtains its
name, is owing chiefly to the tumor j^ressing on the larynx, and partly
also to the inflamed and swollen state of the lining membrane of the
larynx, which becomes inflamed by sympathy. The tumor often becomes
exceedingly large, and the patient may get excessively weak from being
unable to masticate his food. In some cases the animal may be in dan-
ger of suffocation from obstruction of the breathing caused by the size
and situation of the tumor.

Treatment. — As strangles runs a specific course, the great object in
treatment is to assist nature to develop the eruption fully and quickly.
Never do anything to check it or cause its absorption, it would be very
apt to fly to another, and perhaps to some internal glandular structure.
Nourishing food is a first requisite, and as his throat is sore, he can
take nothing but soft food. Hence good nursing becomes the main point
in the treatment.

The patient's appetite must be carefully watched and tempted with
anything that he will eat. In bad cases, grass is not only the best, but
is often the only food that the animal can be tempted to swallow or to
attempt to swallow. Carrots finely cut lengthways are the best substi-
tute when grass cannot be obtained. Bran mash is sometimes palatable
for a day or two, but in general it soon becomes distasteful. Linseed
gruel carefully and wisely prepared may also be offered. If the patient
is able to eat, he should be supi^lied with oats softened by boiling water
poured over it, with the addition of bran and linseed meal, "Whatever
food is offered him must be in a softened condition. Sometimes hay,
cut and soaked m boiling water, is also palatable. The steam arising
from it will also be found to be beneficial by soothing the inflamed
surface.

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISICASE8.

263

Warm clothing must be applied to the body, and bandages to the legs.
At intervals, if the legs get cold, the bandages should be removed, and
the parts rubbed with the hands, until ■warmth is restored. The patient
■ should be placed in a cool well-ventilated box with abundance of air both
day and night. Cool fresh air in this, in common with all diseases in
which the respiratory passages are affected, is of the utmost importance.

If the bowels are constipated and cannot be opened by laxative food,
it IS better to let them alone, rather than to give strong purgative medicine,
both for fear of checking the eruption and also on account of its tendency

Fig. 133.
Bandage for tumor of strangles.

to reduce the strength and perhaps bring on superpurgation. In the
early stage it is best to keep the enlarged gland warm with layers of dry
flannel. Fig. 132. If the tumor appears sluggish and slow to come to a
head, a blister will hasten the process, sometimes by several days. Use

Powdered cantharides 5 i.

Fresh lard § vi.

Mix them together with gentle heat for three hours, stirring occasionally while
hot, filter through paper, and allow the clear liquid to cool.

As soon as the tumor has headed, it should be freely opened with a
lance, in preference to allowing a natural opening to form, because the
opening may be made at the most favorable point, because incised wounds
heal more rapidly than irregular openings and are also less liable to leave
a blemish.

264: VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

As soon as the abscess is opened, the matter will squirt out with great
force. The incision must be kept open, and the abscess occasionally in-
jected for a few days with warm water by means of a syringe in order to
clean away any matter which may be adhering to its sides. Or a small
piece of tow may be put into the opening and removed occasionally, to
prevent the wound closing too soon.

But when the abscess is deep-seated, great caution is necessary in tlie
operation for fear of injuring with the lancet any of the blood-vessels in
its neighborhood. Any considerable flow of blood may prove fatal to an
animal already in a weak and debilitated state; and again if the lancet
should cut through the duct of the salivary gland, we may have a very
troublesome fistulous sore, discharging saliva. The operetion should not
be attempted unless the pressure of the tumor produces great distress in
the breathing; or unless it is so situated that it is probable that the pus,
which will escape on its bursting internally, will cause suffocation.
Premature lancing of the tumor should be carefully avoided.

Occasionally it happens that the tumor is so placed on the side of the
throat that by joressing on the windpipe it causes extreme diflBculty in
breathing. In such cases it may be necessary to open it, even though
not fully matured; and if it can be laid well open with safety, the opera-
tion will give relief. In extreme cases relief to the breathing can only
be obtained by tracheotomy. Though the glands about the head are the
usual seat of the tumor, yet abscesses may, as mentioned above, form in
any of the glandular structures.

If the tumor should form in any of the internal glandular structures,
such as the mesentery, liver or lungs, it will probably be fatal.

The tumor of strangles may also form in different parts of the body
apart from the glandular structures, as for instance on the shoulders, in
front of the chest, etc.

The after-treatment consists simply in the continuance of good nurs-
ing and careful attention to appetite, diet, and ventilation, until the
strength is restored.

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES.

265

RHEUMATISM.

Definition. — Rheumatism is an inflammauion of tne fiorous structures
of the slieaths, joints, tendons, ligaments or muscles, or of the heart and
closed cavities, of a peculiar shifting type. It may be chronic or it may
be acute. The acute attack is usually accompanied by febrile symptoms.

Viewed in its more general aspect, as distinguished from the course of
any particular attack, this disease may be said to be a result of a low or
impaired state of vitality.

The chief peculiarities of the disease are the suddenness of its attacks
and a very remarkable tendency to shift from one part to another.

Fig. 133.
Knee-joint in health.

Fig. 134.
Knee-joint after chronic rheumatism.

Structures which have been once affected are very liable to recur-
rence of the disease, and after a time it may become chronic in such
parts. But though it may be chronic, variations in degree will be felt
from time to time according to weather, health, and other changing cir-
cumstances.

Etiology. — Rheumatism is often caused by neglect. It is very
readily brought on by exposure to wet and cold, by insufficient diet, by

266 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

bad stable management, by neglect, and by all other such causes as lower
the general health. Eheumatism is also a frequent sequel of any debili-
tating disease, especially of chest affections and influenza, or from natural
predisposition without apparent cause.

Symptoms. — The symptoms of rheumatic fever are as follows: — Sud-
den lameness, with or without swelling of some particular articulation,
such as the stifle, hock, or fetlock joints, the flexor tendons, immediately
below the knee or hock in the sesamoidean bursa, the thecse of the mus-
cles of the loins and quarters, or of those of the thoracic walls, constitut-
ing pleurodynia. The lameness may be preceded by some febrile dis-
turbance or a malaise condition, expressed by yawning, dulness, or
dejection. The lameness often disappears from one part of the body
and suddenly reappears in another. Very often the lameness is symmet-
rical, that is to say, it will be due to inflammation of the same joints in
both legs, say in two stifle or in two hock joints.

If the attack be severe, or if it be continued, the parts affected will
soon become hot and swollen. When a part has been frequently attacked,
a chronic swelling generally becomes apparent.

When rheumatism arises from exposure to cold or wet, it generally
affects the loins or shoulders.

Treatment. — As soon as the diagnosis is made, give the following:

Salicylic acid,

Bicarbonate of soda aa 3 i.

Give as a drink three or four times a day.

This treatment will usually give immediate relief, and with laxative food
will cure in many cases.

Oil of wintergreen mixed with an equal quantity of olive-oil applied
externally to inflamed joints affected by acute rheumatism, sometimes
affords instant relief.

In severe or long-continued attacks, it is advisable to give :

Bicarbonate of potash,

Nitrate of potassium,

Powdered colchicum aa 3 ss.

If the lameness is persistent after the ordinary means of reducing
inflammation have been employed, blisters of :

Biniodide of mercury z i.

Lard § viij.

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES. 267

may be applied to tlie inflamed parts, and followed by linseed meal poul-
tices over the blistered parts, to j)romote the flow of serum.

DROPSY.

Synonyms. — Ascites; (Edema; Hydrothorax,

Definition. — A watery effusion which collects under the skin of the
belly, sheath, and sometimes the legs and chest; still more rarely in the
testicles.

Etiology. — An effusion of serum, which produces soft, pitting swell-
ing, may result from a diminished and retarded, or from a retarded
though not diminished state of the circulation; or it may result from a
poor impoverished condition of the blood; or all these causes or some of
them may exist in combination, though ascites most frequently results
from diseases of the liver, the heart, and from indigestion of improper
food.

Dropsy may also occur from any cause, such as a sudden chill or ex-
posure, which disturbs or arrests the two processes of exhalation and ab-
sorption, natural to all secreting surfaces in health.

Dropsical swellings, which are distinguished from the foregoing by
the symptoms of heat, tenderness and pain, result from congestion of
the blood-vessels under the influence of inflammatory action.

The abnormal disposition to effusion, as the result of congestion,
generally arises from a weak or debilitated constitution, or from a circu-
lation which has become deficient in tone and vigor. The attacks of in-
flammation which end in dropsical swellings are generally very acute.
The swelling itself in such cases is formed very suddenly and rapidly.

Symptoms. — Enlargement of the belly and sheath, a dull sound on
percussion, and the fluctuation of the contained fluid on pressure. As
the fluid increases the breathing becomes thoracic, the bowels irregular,
and the coat rough and unthrifty. If the disease has progressed as far as
this, the case is usually hopeless. •

Treatment. — If caused by improper food, a change to generous diet
with occasional aperients as:

Linseed oil 1 pint

Or,

268 VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND SUKGEKY.

Aloes , 3 iv.

Ginger 3 ij.

Linseed meal,

Molasses aa siifBcient

and tonics as:

Sulphate of iron. . . . , 3 iv.

Gentian

Ginger aa 3 ij.

A ball daily.

will soon effect a change. Good grooming, with moderate exercise in the
open air, will prove advantageous.

If the symptoms indicate arrest of secretion of the liver:

Calomel , 3 ss

Powdered ginger,

Powdered gentian .aa 3 ij.

Make one ball.

If it be an after result of disease of the lungs and pleurae, the best
remedies are those indicated in Chapter II. If the cause be traceable
to disorder of the kidneys or liver, those organs must be treated as indi-
cated in Chapters VI. and VII.

A slight diuretic as:

Powdered digitalis , 3 i.

Sulphate of iron 3 ss.

Linseed meal.

Molasses aa sufficient

for one ball, may be given occasionally with benefit to horses predisposed
to th?s complaint. If the animal is poor, a generous diet is essential.

In very urgent cases removal of the fluid may be effected by mechani-
cal means, such as tapping with a trocar and canula. Fig. 135. The
operation, however, is not in general of much avail, as the fluid usually
forms again. In those cases in which the accumulation is considerable,
and from its proximity to important organs is likely to produce a serious

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES. 269

result, such as positive obstruction to the respiration, it may be neces-
sary to have recourse to tapping; but except under such circumstances
the fluid should not be removed by mechanical means.

Removal of the fluid in less pressing cases may be best effected indi-
rectly by rousing the action of the skin by means of stimulants; whilst

Fig. 135.
Trocar and canula.

at the same time the secretions of the bowels and kidneys may be in-
creased by very mild doses of aperient or by more active doses of diuretic
medicine, as:

Iodide of potassium 3 ss.

Extract of gentian,

Powdered ginger aa 3 ij.

Make into ball and give night and morning.

It is said the following is very useful in reducing dropsical swellings,

viz: —

Sweet spirits of nitre 3 ij.

Oil of turpentine 3 i.

Give as a drink in one quart of decoction of broom-corn seeds.

Friction and pressure to the part, when practicable, are very useful in
restoring a healthier and more vigorous tone to the vessels. See also page
217.

GLANDERS AND FARCY.

Synonym. — Equina.

Definition. — A contagious, malignant and fatal disease, during the
progress of which the mucous membrane of the nose, larynx, and trachea
are specifically affected. Glanders and farcy are different manifestations
of the same disease.

270 VETEKINABY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

Etiology. — The primary cause of glanders is not clearly understood.
Old age, hard, debilitating work, bad food, miasmatic surroundings, illy
ventilated and badly drained stables, overcrowding in confined quarters
seem to favor the development of the poison. The discharges from the
nose of a glandered horse will infect others, and as the poison is commu-
nicable to men, great care must be taken in suspected cases to avoid it.

Symptoms. — Glanders, as most commonly met with, presents the
following signs : — The horse is generally more or less off its feed, has a
tendency to shiver on the slightest cold; its coat is rough and unhealthy,
" has lost the bloom of health;" it may or may not cough; the appetite
is capricious; and perspiration is induced by slight exertion. There is a
discharge of a starchy or gluey material from one or both nostrils; the
discharge is often tinged with blood. In some instances recurrent
hemorrhage from the nostril is a premonitory sign of glanders. The
mucous membranes are pale and unhealthy, and that covering the nasal
chamber, from which the discharge issues, is studded over with deep, pit-
like ulcers. The ulcers are characteristic, being excavated, as if cut with
a punch, but after a time they become ragged at their edges, irregular,
enlarged in all directions, and confluent. The spaces between the ulcers
are covered with hard yellowish pimples, which soon ulcerate. The eye
of the affected side is weak, and looks smaller than its fellow, and an
unhealthy discharge often issues from it over the face. The submaxil-
lary lymphatics of the same side enlarge and form a tumor — sometimes
single, sometimes lobulated — which is more or less firmly adherent to the
surrounding tissues.

Acute Glanders appears suddenly with rigors more or less marked,
the temperature of the animal is sometimes as high as 106° to 109°, the
breathing is accelerated, the pulse feeble, rapid, and even dicrotonous,
the heart's action palpitating and accompanied by metallic tinkling, the
appetite fails, the joituitary membrane, at first of a dark copper color,
with patches of ecchymosis of a dark-red hue, becomes purj)le, and the
patches are rapidly converted into pit-like ragged-edged ulcers, from
which issues a copious sanious discharge. The submaxillary lymphatic
glands enlarge. Other lymphatic glands inflame, enlarge, suppurate,
burst, and expose raw, unhealthy-looking sores, from which issues a more
or less ichorous and irritating purulent material. The eyes are weak,
and a discharge issues fi'om them; the nostrils are often swollen. The
breathing is hurried, irregular, and impeded by the swelling of the nos-

GENERAL, CONTAaiOtJS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES. 271

trils, and by the glutinous discharge drying around them; abscesses
speedily form along the course of the lymphatics of the face. The urine
is pale, watery, and increased in quantity.
Acute glanders is rapidly fatal.
Chronic Glanders is the common form seen in the horse.

In some instances the disease presents itself in such a mild form that
the general health is scarcely affected. There will be a discharge from
one or both nostrils, generally from one nostril, and that very often the
near (left) one. The submaxillary lymphatic glands are swollen and
hard; the hardness and swelling are of a remitting nature, very often
varying in size in a short period. For example, a horse may be left at
night with scarcely any discoverable swelling, and found in the morning
with a hard knot under the jaw, which is both easily seen and felt. The
swelling may continue for several days, afterwards slowly disappear, and
then reappear as rapidly as before. This condition may exist before any
discharge issues from the nose, and a horse so affected is elegantly said
to be ''jugged." If the nostril of such a horse be examined, it will be
found to be paler in color than natural, or perhaps tawny, coppery, and
sometimes of a dull leaden hue. The discharge of glanders presents a
starchy or glue-like appearance, adheres to the nostrils, where it dries
and accumulates, causing the nasal opening of the affected side to appear
smaller or more contracted than in health.

These appearances, in addition to a weak or de litated condition of
the eye of the affected side, may be all the symptoms present in a case of
chronic glanders; indeed in some instances there may be nothing but the
discharge from the nostril to lead one to suspect anything wrong with
the animal, and the diagnosis is consequently very difficult, more partic-
ularly if the case is a solitary one; but where glanders is found to exisl
in a stable, any suspicious symptom becomes significant. I have said
nothing about the glanders-ulcer, because in many instances of chronic
glanders the ulcer is undiscoverable; indeed in some rare cases ulcers are
never found either before or after death. For this reason Percivall
limited the term chronic to that form in which no ulcers could be de-
tected. He says, however, that they are always present in the frontal
sinuses.

Acute Farcy, which together with chronic farcy has just been stated
to be another manifestation of glanders, is initiated in very similar man-
ner to acute glanders. A general swelling of the cutaneous tissues takes

272 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

place "which may increase and subside alternately for a time, but suddenly
a number of distinct swellings or nodules will appear, termed " farcy
buds." Fig. 136.

These specific tubercles, so characteristic of farcy in either its acute
or chronic form, are situated in the cutis, or the subcutaneous connective
tissue; or they may penetrate deeper, affecting the muscles. Individually
they vary in size from a pea to a hazel-nut.

In a few days central softening, and disintegration, with rupture of

Fig. 136.
Farcy buds.

skin, take place in these individually. The openings or sores thus formed,
now known as farcy ulcers, are deej), angry looking, with rounded ragged
edges; they are disposed to extend and discharge a foul, grayish-white
creamy liquid tinged with blood. These buds, or nodules, are often de-
veloped in groups clustered over a limited space, and the ulcerative pro-
cess proceeding with much rapidity from each centre, shortly converts
two or more of the original chancres into one large, many-pitted, irregu-
lar-margined ulcer.

The discharge from these sores is very abundant; and, although
mostly distributed over the adjacent surface, does in some cases, and to
a limited extent, collect and harden in brownish crusts around the open-
ings of the sores.

In addition to the existence of these buds, or ulcerating sores, we
have also a characteristic prominent, projecting, or corded condition of
the lymphatics. The inflammation of these vessels may take place coin-
cident with the appearance of the nodes, and previous to their suppura-
tion; or it may not be obvious until the open suppurating sore has been
established. These vessels, when thus affected, seem and feel full and
hard, as well as being painful to the touch — in these respects resembling
the nodules and infiltrations. Not unfrequentlythe termination of acute

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES. 273

farcy is the development of glauders in an acute form, with all the char-
acteristic lesions in the nasal chambers, glands, and air-passages.

Chronic farcy is not usually accompanied by the same degree of con-
stitutional disturbances as the other forms of equina. Circumscribed swell-
ings appear generally in those parts of the body where the skin is thin-
nest; the changes which occur in these tumors are the same as those
described in acute farcy. The lymphatic glands are inflamed and swollen
and form a corded network in the skin.

The physical appearances and characters of these * cords,' or inflamed
lymph-vessels, are not always precisely similar. Generally of the thick-
ness of a goose-quill, they are rarely, either in their bulk or the uniform
resistance or tension of the swelling, continuously alike. At irregular
points along their course, usually at the situations of the so-called valves,
there are dilatations or small- circumscribed spots of induration and ele-
vation of tissue, which have not inappropriately been likened to a string
of beads or pearls. When these small indurated swellings are fairly de-
veloped they do not often disappear, but, like the primary farcy bud,
gradually take on ulterior changes, terminating in central softening and
discharge of puriform material. These smaller buds further comport
themselves in a precisely similar manner to the larger ones, by widening
through ulceration, and ultimately coalescing, thereby forming not
merely an ulcerous sore, but an ulcerous sinuous tract or cavity; these
unhealthy secreting sinuosities have generally been known as 'farcy-

Treatment. — No known methods of treatment avail to do more than
prolong life. An animal in wliich either glanders or farcy is suspected
should be at once isolated, and as soon as the disease is clearly manifested,
it is best to be destroyed at once.

ERYSIPELAS.

Definition. — A specific febrile disease accompanied by inflammation
of the skin and subjacent tissues, followed by swelling which usually
spreads rapidly, by an eruption, and by pain.

Etiology. — Weak and exhausted animals are most subject to it. It

generally succeeds wounds of the legs.

Symptoms. — The symptoms of erysipelas are thus stated by Kobin-
18

274 VETEKINABY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

son: In the cellulo-cutayieous variety, which is probably the most com-
monly met with in the lio?se — indeed there is some doubt whether in him
the skin is ever, in a pure and uncomplicated form, the seat of this mor-
bid action, bat is not in every form complicated with the invasion more
or less of the subjacent cellular tissue — the effusion into the subdermal
connective structure is at first purely serous, and consequently the swell-
ing resulting from this infiltration pits easily on pressure, the indenta-
tion being as rapidly filled up again Avhen the pressure is removed. As
the disease advances, however, the effusion is more strictly inflammatory,
the pain is greater, the skin feels resisting, tension being increased; the
material extravasated is less susceptible of indentation when pressed
upon, and the parts acquire a firm, brawny feeling.

The presence of numerous well-defined vesicles, although a character-
istic symptom of the disease, is nevertheless.not met with in every case,
and the serous exudation found jDreceding as well as accompanying them
occurs at intervals over considerable areas of the skin. The tendency of
the epidermis to become detached is well shown by pressing on the vesi-
cles, Avhen the contained fluid is readily distributed over a large surface;
while the character of this fluid may be taken as a fair criterion of the
severity or malignancy of the seizure: it is more truly serous in the
milder forms, and bloody and albuminous in the less benignant.

When the inflammation in the subcutaneous tissue has terminated in
the process of suppuration, or when patches of skin are losing their vital-
ity, ultimately to be removed by sloughing, the hair falls off or is easily
removed, and the skin appears of a leaden hue and of a moist feeling.

The recognition of erysipelas, although ordinarily not a difficult mat-
ter, may in particular instances be confounded with some of those dis-
turbances in which haemal contamination is a prominent feature, as scar-
latina or purpura, with acute farcy, or with lymphangitis. With the
exercise of a little care, however, it is easily enougii differentiated from
all of these. From scarlatina it is distinguished by its non-association
with a previously diseased condition, and by, in the severer cases, the
more sthenic character of the pyrexia! and inflammatory symptoms. In
erysipelas the tumefaction of the limb is uniform and firm, not in patches
as in scarlatina; although both have oozing of serous fluid from the skin,
the manner of oozing is different. In erysipelas pain on manipulation is
more marked, while in scarlatina there are no circumscribed or diffused
ruptures of the cutaneous tissue; infiltration and swelling of gland-tex-

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES. 275

tures are characteristic of scarlatina, not so of erysipelas. From purpura
it differs by the more sthenic character of the entire morbid process, by
the local tumefaction being uniform and confined to one particular part
ox the body, usually the limbs, and most frequently a hind limb; while
in purpura the swellings are irregularly distributed, sharply defined, and
the head is early and markedly affected by these. The swellings in pur-
pura are also comparatively painless, not, as in ersipelas, acutely sensi-
tive.

From the local swelling of acute farcy it differs in that here we have
no corded lymphatics nor any of the peculiar growths, farcy buds or
nodules; for although there may be sores in both cases, the character of
these sores is dissimilar; they have no hard base and circumference of in-
durated tissue as in farcy, while the exquisitely sensitive condition of the
entire dermal surface, so marked in erysipelas, is not so prominent in
farcy.

With lymphangitis it has certain resemblances, particularly in the
early stages of both affections; as the disease progresses, however, there
is little danger of their being confounded, while all through their respec-
tive courses there are certain distinguishing features. In lymphangitis
the swelling, heat, and tenderness appear first in the inguinal region, and
after a time extend downwards; in erysipelas the same local conditions
almost invariably originate in the vicinity of the hock, or between that
joint and the fetlock, and extend in both directions. There is rarely any
exudation from the skin in ordinary lymphangitis, and never any of the
vesication, local gangrene and sloughing sores so characteristic of erysip-
elas; nor is there any liability to structural changes in the membrane of
the mouth and upper air-passages.

Treatment. — Usually erysipelas runs its course in ten to fourteen
days. Fomentations of warm water to the affected parts, and smear with
an ointment of:

Extract of belladonna,

Lard aa|i.

The bowels should be opened by a cathartic of from six to eight drachms
of powdered aloes with linseed meal and molasses to form one ball. After
it has operated give tincture of chloride of iron in two to four drachm
doses every four hours. If there is much constitutional disturbance, it

276 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

■will be advisable to administer tincture of aconite, twenty drops in water
every four or five hours.

PURPURA HEMORRHAGICA.

Synonyms. — Spotted fever; Cliarbon.

Definition. — An eruptive non-contagious fever, characterized by the
appearance of petechial or blood spots upon the mucous membranes.

Etiology. — It is usually the sequel of some other disease, in conse-
quence of keeping the horse in a debilitated condition, in badly drained
and ventilated stables. It rarely occurs where pure air, clean floors, and
abundant ventilation are provided.

Symptoms. — Usually the earliest symptom which awakens our sus-
picion, or which yields indications of the onset of purpura, is tha
appearance of the local swellings. These swellings are diagnostic; they
are sudden in their appearance, occurring in different parts of the body,
generally the limbs, the abdomen, or the head, particularly the inferior
portion of the face and around the nostrils and mouth. They are some-
times limited or in patches, often uniform when in connection with the
limbs, always elevated above the level of the surrounding skin, and
terminating abruptly, not gradually by shading off into the level of sur-
rounding parts. They are tense, pitting slightly on pressure, but neither
very hot nor very painful.

Very early in the course of the disease, or it may be delayed for some
time, the condition of the lining membrane of the nasal cavities is al-
tered. It is at first merely heightened in color, and studded with pete-
chise, which gradually extend, chiefly by coalescing, until they cover the
greater portion of the septum which is visible, and steadily assume a
darker color; or they may be observed to alter in color, as also in extent,
with the changes and remissions of the other symptoms. When these
blood-spots and submucous blood-extravasations are fairly established in
connection with the nasal structures, we observe that a sero-sanguineous
fluid, or blood, of a darker color than natural, and not disposed to coag-
ulate, trickles from the nostrils.

From the infiltration of the subcutaneous tissue of the external, and
the submucous of the upper and internal air-passages, and consequent

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES. 277

swelling, the breathing becomes embarrassed or accompanied with a
troublesome cough.

Treatment. — The first step must be to remove the animal from all
offensive smells, bad drainage, and bad ventilation.

Pure air, light, warmth, and comfort are the first essentials.
Secondly, it must be borne in mind that the great danger of a suddenly-
fatal termination is from extravasation into some internal organ, or even
into the subcutaneous tissues.

For the purpose of overcoming this tendency to extravasation, astrin-
gents, as the tincture of the chloride of iron, are sometimes successfully
employed. If these are given in combination with an oleaginous purga-
tive, any astringent effect which they might otherwise exercise on the
alimentary canal is prevented.

Tincture of chl oride of iron ^ i.

Linseed oil 1 pint

It must, however, be remembered that extravasations depend more
upon the condition of the blood than upon the blood-vessels, and reme-
dies which are calculated, either by their antiseptic or oxidizing properties,
to alter the abnormally fluid condition of the blood, are better calculated
to attain the object than those which merely act upon an effect of the
disease. For this reason, the chlorate of potash has been prescribed, and
with marked results.

Chlorate of potassium 3 iij. to 3 iv.

in food or water three times daily for three days, after which time Rob-
inson advises its use in doses of

Chlorate of potassium 3 ij.

Nitrate of potassium . . . 3 i.

The salts of iron usually employed are the sulphate or solution of the
chloride — the former is to be preferred, combined with diluted sulphuric
acid — thirty grains of the sulphate with half a fluid drachm of the acid
in cold water twice or thrice daily. This may either be given alter-
nately from the commencement of the treatment with the chlorate of
potash, or its administration may be deferred for some days, and then

278 VETERINAKY MEDICINE AND SUKGEEY.

employed in this alternate manner. When benefit does not seem to fol-
low the use of the iron salt in conjunction with the potash compound,
when the local swellings do not give evidence of subsidence, the substi-
tution of the oil of turpentine for the former is advisable; the quantities
to be administered being from six to ten fluid drachms in combination
with linseed oil, good gruel, raw eggs, or a combination of the last two.

In those cases where exhaustion and depression are great, and where
sufficient food is not being taken into the system, a steady but moderate
stimulation is indicated; this may be accomplished while the adminis-
tration of the medicines already mentioned is being carried out, and
alcoholic are to be preferred to the ammoniacal stimulants.

If the head be much swollen, and there be a difficulty in breathing
from tumefaction of the nostrils, continuous cold sponging must be
ordered. The sponge may be dipped in cold water or in some weak
astringent solution — vinegar and water, or the terchloride of iron tinc-
ture, largely diluted; if the cold sponging fails to reduce the swelling,
warm may be substituted, particularly if the weather be very cold; but
beyond doing this to the head, I am of opinion that all other interfe-
rence does much mischief.

The swellings are but the result of the condition of the blood, and
when the latter is restored to it^ normal standard, the swellings will dis-
appear. Indeed, an abatement of the swelling in one part of the body
is of ten succeeded by tumefaction in some other, and perhaps more im-
portant structure or organ. The swellings are generally metastatic, and
when they are confined to those parts of the body where they cannot en-
danger life, it is far better to leave them alone. They should not be
punctured.

SCARLATINA.

Synonym. — Scarlet fever.

Definition. — A febrile disease, characterized by an eruption on the
skin, petecliial spots on the nose, soreness of the throat, and sometimes
suppuration in various parts of the body, particularly in the submaxillary
space.

Unlike the scarlatina which attacks the humau being, it is a non-
contagious disease, generally attacking but one or two horses in a large

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES. 279

stable, amongst which some form of epizootic disease is at the time pre-
valent.

Etiology. — The causes of scarlatina in the horse are not well under-
stood. It is, however, manifest that those which seem most predisposed
to it, have just passed through some other debilitating disease.

Symptoms. — The symptoms indicative of the simple form of scar-
latina seldom occur before the end of the first week of the primary
fever which it may accompany or succeed, and frequently they are
delayed for a longer period. Unaccountable depression, renewal or in-
crease of febrile symptoms — according as the previous fever has inter-
mitted or only remitted — not at all indicated on the previous examina-
tion of the animal, with a slightly swollen condition of the eyelids,
are most probably the features which solicit a more careful examina-
tion. The horse, when caused to move, will show stiffness from the
swelling which exists over the limb. On passing the hand over these swell-
ings we may, in certain situations where the skin is thin and vascular,
and where the swelling is of a patchy character, detect a certain
amount of moisture distributed in a dew-like fashion over the skin; or
if this exuded serosity is becoming dry, the sensation imparted to the
fingers is similar to what is felt on passing them over a mildly vesicated
surface. Very careful examination may detect the vesicles before
they rupture and discharge the serous fluid. More carefully examining
the face and head, to which we are led by the swollen eyelids, there
will in all likelihood be noticed several blotches there and over the
region of the throat, which, although they may not feel dry or rough to
the touch, are yet to the eye rough-looking, from the open condition of
the hair. In many cases there may be very few or no elevated patches
on either body or limbs, nothing save some amount of oedema; the only
diagnostic symptoms being those connected with the membrane of
the mouth and nose. When the elevated, exuding, or roughened cu-
taneous patches are j^resent, the nasal and oral lesions are rarely absent;
these consist of numerous bright-red dots or spots scattered over the
membrane both of the nose and mouth. These blood-spots are most readily
observed on the membrane covering the nasal septum and on the in-
ner surface of the lips; they are variable in size and form, as also in
intensity or depth of color, not only in different cases, but in the same
case on different days, or even at different periods of the same day; their
size, number, and intensity of color seem to bear a direct relation

280 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

to the severity of the fever, and its advance or defervescence. At times
there is coalescence of these spots, or a connection of one with another
by rays stretching between them. The general appearance of the mem-
brane upon which the punctated blood-markings are situated is not, in
the simple form, much changed in color. Many of the circumscribed
elevations of the cuticular surface, when of a light color, and denuded
of hair, show the petechial markings very distinctly, exactly like those
which exist on the nasal and buccal membrane. If the affection to which
this scarlatina has succeeded has not been accompanied with soreness of
the throat, such will most probably now manifest itself, either accom-
panying the rash or preceding it. In mild cases the rash and blood spots
will disappear in a few days and the horse soon regain his strength.

Treatment. — In the milder forms of the disease it is sufficient to
keep the animal in a warm, well-ventilated, light, loose box, to feed it
on laxative food, and give small and repeated doses of the nitrate of potas-
sium, hyposulphite of sodium, or chlorate of potassium, in the food or
water, say one drachm. The body must be clothed according to the
weather, and the general comfort of the animal attended to.

In the graver forms, the animal must be carefully watched, more es-
pecially with regard to its breathing, for in some cases the glottis and
other structures of the throat rapidly swell, the larynx becomes con-
stricted, and the animal may die from suffocation. Whenever this is
threatened, tracheotomy must be performed; and in all cases where the
breathing is difficult, and accompanied by a loud roaring noise, this op-
eration is to be resorted to, in order that the animal may obtain pure
air to oxidize its already impure blood.

The throat is to be repeatedly bathed with hot water and enveloped
in warm poultices, and the animal made to inhale the steam of hot water
by use of the nose bag, Fig. 14. The moutk is to be frequently washed
out T\^itli salt and water, and if the coryza is excessive, some of it may be
applied to the nose. If the face and uares are swollen, they must be
frequently bathed with cold water, and afterwards dressed with some
astringent lotion, such as a solution of the tincture of chloride of iron.
If the bowels are very torpid, a gentle laxative may be administered,
such as one pint of linseed oil, but active purgation must on no account
be induced; the nitrate of potassium may be given freely in the food or
water, and abundance allowed of the latter, which must be cold and fresh.
If signs of purpura haemorrhagica supervene, the chlorate of potassium

GENERAL, CONTAGIOUS, AND ENZOOTIC DISEASES. 281

must be substituted for the nitrate. If much deprossiou is present,
draughts of spirits of nitrous ether may be given, provided deglutition is
not difficult; but if the act of swallov^ing causes pain and cough, nothing
should be forced upon the animal, or suffocation may ensue. Indeed,
where the throat is very sore, even the oil must be withheld, and the
bowels relieved by enemas, or by the sul^jhate of magnesia dissolved in
the horse's water. If he will drink this, it has a very good effect, but
many horses will not drink at all if salts are dissolved in their water.
After the first few days, milk, or milk with eggs, is to be allowed in
abundance, in order to support the animal strength. When the secretions
are restored to their natural condition, and the soreness of the throoat a
little abated, a small ball containing carbonate of ammonia — the ball be-
ing well oiled — may be given two or three times a day with great benefit,
and later on the mineral tonics, with bark or quinine.

CHAPTER XII.

FLESH WOUNDS.

Incised wounds, Lacerated wounds, Punctured wounds, Contused wounds,
Wounds of the abdomen, Frostbite, Burns, Scalds, Poisoned wounds, The Stings
of Insects, The Poison of Snakes, Acids and Alkalies.

Definition. — A flesh wound is a solution of continuity in tlio soft
parts, suddenly produced by violence.

Common flesh wounds may be divided into Incised, Lacerated, Punc-
tured, and Contused.

An Incised Woukd

is made by some sharp, clean cutting instrument, and there is no tearing
or contusion of the parts. If the wound is in line with the muscular
fibres, it will not gape much and can easily be kept together. If, how-
ever, it is across the muscles, the natural retraction will cause the Avound
to gape open, and in the recess thus formed blood and pus may collect
and retard the healing.

Lacerated Wounds are usually more or less contused also. The skin
IS broken and torn by the contusion, and its edges are ragged and uneven.
Lacerated wounds may be simply an abrasion of the skin, or they may
involve deeper structures; the range being from a simple scratch or
scrape to the forcible tearing off of the horny part of the foot or a deep cut
from falling upon a sharp stone, and its gravity, of course, varies in the
same degree. Punctured wounds are produced by the penetration of a
sharp or blunt pointed instrument into the tissue, usually to a depth dis-
proportionate to the aperture of entrance. Punctured wounds are the
most dangerous of all wounds, and for the reasons that, from their depth,
they are liable to implicate arteries, nerves, veins, viscera, and deep-seated

284: \t;terinary medicine and sukgeky.

vital parts; that the parts which they traverse are stretched and torn,
and consequently are disposed to inflame and suppurate; and pus, when
formed, has no free exit, and is liable to burrow extensively; that foreign
bodies may be carried to great depth without being suspected, and create
long-continued irritation; and finally, punctured wounds are most liable
to be followed by tetanus.

Contused Woun-ds

are injuries inflicted by som'e blunt object, without perforation of the
skin, and its consequences are a degree of concussion or benumbing
which may be severe without further mischief, as, for example, when a
horse strikes his leg with the opposite foot, goes lame for a time, but
very shortly is all right again. This is called hrushing or interfering,
and a repetition of it v/il). cause some structural change in the part
contused.

Tlie second effect of contusion is a structural injury,.varying in degree.
There may be rupture of the smaller blood-vessels, and infiltration of the
blood into the surrounding tissues, constituting ecchymosis, or a large
blood-vessel may be ruptured, and the blood extravasated in considerable
quantity, tearing up the areolar tissue in whicli it congulates; or if an
artery be cut, a false or diffused aneurism may be the result.

The third effect may be the formation of a serous abscess.

The fourth effect may be the pulpification, disorganization, and sub-
sequent mortification of the part contused, not merely of its surface, but
of structures deeply imbedded beneath the skin. Eepeated contusions
of the coronet and pastern, by "brushing" or ''interfering," are suc-
ceeded in the colder months of the year by violent inflammation of the
skin and subcutaneous tissues, and the formation of abscesses in the parts,
which sometimes endanger the life of the animal by the severity of the
accompanying fever; whilst in other cases the inflammation extends into
the joints, rendering the case almost hopeless.

Etiology. — Wounds of the flesh are produced by accidents chiefly,
and are sometimes very serious.

There is a greater disposition in the horse than in man to suppurative
action. Hence wounds of any extent seldom heal completely in the
horse by direct union or by adhesion. These modes should, however, be
sought for and obtained as far as possible in each case, with the view of
reducing the size of the part requiring to be filled up by granulations.

FLESH WOUNDS. 285

Treatment. — In the general treatment of wounds, attention should
first be directed to cleansing the injured parts from all foreign bodies, as
far as possible, by allowing lukewarm water to fall in a stream over it
from the mouth of a vessel. It is good practice to add to the water one
per cent of carbolic acid. Or a wet sponge or piece of fine tow may be
pressed on some part above, from whence the water may gently trickle
over the wound; but the abraded surface itself should be touched as
little as possible. Fig. 1. Any large particles of gravel or dirt may
be carefully removed by the forcej)s. It is, however, a mistake to irritate
a wound by over-anxiety to cleanse it thoroughly. Nature will by her own
processes remove with less irritation than man can do any foreign matters
which may be so imbedded as not to come away by the simple washing
recommended.

If there is any hemorrhage, it should be stopped at once, for which
jDurpose, in ordinary cases, the application of cold, styptics, or pressure is
generally sufficient. If the blood persists in oozing out and an artery is
not involved, the application of persulphate of iron will control it. There
is usually very little bleeding in lacerated wounds, sometimes great sore-
ness, and considerable inflammation; this should be treated with fomen-
tations of hot water on them, or form thickness of flannel or a soft bit
of rag, or lint, or a mild poultice may be applied with good effect:

Linsed meal 2 parts

Brewer's yeast 1 part

Boiling water enough

Always have poultices warm when put on. If, however, the hemor-
rhage be arterial, a ligature or acupressure will probably be necessary; the
latter is preferable, as it causes less suppuration.

The best dressing for wounds which comply with the conditions re-
quired for direct union is collodion. It effectually excludes the air, and
direct union, or at least union by adhesion, is likely to occur. The ban-
dages which retain the dressing should not be removed for some days.
The dressing, of course, must not be applied until the bleeding has
ceased and the wound has been cleansed. It will be necessary to remove
the hair round the part, before the dressing is applied.

For wounds capable of being healed by adhesion, lint steeped in blood
or in tincture of benzoin or collodion may be applied. Where collodion
is used, the hair about the part must be removed.

286 VETEKINARY MEDICINE AND SURGEEY.

For wounds intended to be healed by granulations, there is no better
dressing than lint steeped in cold water. Care must be taken to keep
the lint moist, and for this purpose it may be covered with oil-silk or
thin India-rubber.

All wounds healing by granulations must fill up gradually /ro??i the
bottom. It must be remembered that there is a greater tendency to union
in the edges of the skin and in parts near the skin than in the deeper tis-
sues. Hence all deep wounds requn-e to be kept open, until we are assured
that the healing process is fully completed from the lowest part. This ob-
ject may generally be attained by inserting a piece of dry lint between
the edges of the wound.

The formation of a slight scab over the exterior of a wound is useful
in many cases as a protection against the irritating effects of the air and
accidental abrasion; but no dense firm, unyielding scab should be per-
mitted to form or remain, because it will unduly check the natural exu-
dation of the matter which in such wounds always forms. The matter,
if confined, will collect until at last it bursts out by some large irregular
opening, or, if unable to obtain an exit, will burrow in the deep-seated
tissues and cause extensive mischief.

If a wound which is healing either by scabbing or by granulations be-
comes indolent, and the healing process is slow and imperfect, it may be
necessary to rouse the parts to more energetic 'action. If the wound is
merely in the skin, the edges of it may be removed with the knife, and
the cut surfaces brought into contact and kept together by sutures or
sticking plaster. In other cases, caustic may be applied to the wound.

Indolence in the healing process is a sign of constitutional debility.
Hence in addition to local measures the general health should be care-
fully attended to.

In some indolent wounds, and especially in those over the coronet,
there is often a disposition to excessive and unhealthy granulations,
otherwise called proud flesh. This disposition must be kept in check by
the application of some styptic, such as sulphate of copper or zinc,
nitrate of silver, or alum, and in some cases, where it can be conveniently
applied, by pressure. When granulations form in masses, matter will
often be found under them, which is apt to burrow in sinuses, unless an
opening be made for it.

In all wounds it is an object of much importance to keep the part in a
state of rest. In some parts a certain degi'ee of motion cannot be avoided.

FLKSH WOUNDS. 287

bnt an endeavor should be made to lessen it as far as possible. For
instance, if the jaw be injured, it is desirable to place the patient on
sloppy diet which will not require much mastication. In wounds of the
leg, advantage may be taken of particular kmds of shoes, such as those
raised at the heels or at the toes, according to the circumstances of the
particular case. In some cases the patient will require to be tied up #o
prevent his moving about, while in other cases a cradle will be needed to
prevent his gnawing the wound with his teeth.

Sutures are useful in bringing together the edges of the skin in parts
where there is but little flesh, such as on the forehead, the nose, and the
eyelids; but they do not answer in fleshy parts, because the weight of the
flesh and the swelling arising from the attendant inflammation generally
bursts them. In such cases, the needful apposition of the parts is best
promoted and maintained by bandages. Again sutures are not advisable
where the edges of the wound are much torn, or where there are foreign
bodies lodged in it, because the inflammation and suppuration which
ensue in such cases are aggravated by the confinement of the matter, and
in the end the sutures generally break away.

Sutures are best applied by means of a curved needle. Fig. 26. In-
terrupted sutures answer better than continuous, because the process of
healing by direct union or by adhesion is seldom complete in the horse,
for reasons already mentioned, and hence the matter which forms needs
frequent means of escape. The twisted suture made by two needles and
a skein of tow or silk twisted over them. Fig. 32, answers very well in a
small incised wound, such as that caused by bleeding in the neck.

In extensive wounds, a flexible silver wire suture is often used in pre-
ference to silk, because it does not absorb the effused matters, and hence
also is less likely to slough out. In extensive wounds, however, espe-
cially in fleshy parts, bandages answer better than sutures.

A bandage should be adjusted very evenly, and not so tight as to ob-
struct the circulation or to cause pain. When circumstances admit of it,
the bandage should be applied above and below, but not over the wound.
This arrangement will enable the dressing to be easily changed without
the necessity of removing the bandage each time.

True skin, when onco destroyed, is never reproduced. Its place is
supplied by a cicatrix, which is formed of fibro-cellular tissue covered by
epithelium. A cicatrix differs from true skin mainly in not containing
sebaceous follicles or hair.

288 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

The constitutional effects of sucli wounds as it is worth our while to
treat in the horse are in general not very serious.

Traumatic fever sometimes ensues, but usually subsides in a few days.
Temporary debility may follow any excessive loss of blood from an incised
wound, but nature soon repairs the loss.

The special treatment called for by incised wounds is, 1, To arrest
hemorrhage; 2, To remove foreign bodies; 3, To effect and maintain co-
adaptation; and 4, To guard against excessive inflammation. (1.) Hem-
orrhage, whether arterial or venous, is to be arrested, and this is the first
thing that must be attended to. If it arises from a small artery partially
cut, blood of a bright-red color flows or spurts out in jets; but if it be
completely cut across, the ends contract, and the hemorrhage ceases. In
some cases the bleeding will continue although the artery be divided com-
pletely across, or will take place from time to time, and prove serious.
In such instances the end of tlie artery must be searched for, drawn out
by the forceps, and tied by a ligature; occasionally it will be found nec-
essary to enlarge the wound to do this effectually.

Venous bleeding is generally easily arrested by moderate pressure, or
by an astringent application, such as a solution of the tincture of terchlo-
ride or the persulphate of iron. As a rule, even these slight applications
are unnecessary, venous bleeding stopping spontaneously if the wound is
exposed to cold air; but if a large vein be Avounded, it is often necessary
to tie it with a ligature.

When the bleeding is arrested, all clots of blood, dirt, and foreign
bodies are to be removed as stated under general treatment.

In wounds where muscular fibres are deeply cut, it is recommended
that the wound should remain open for about eight hours, for the pur-
pose of allowing the discharges of blood and serum to escape; or if sutures
are immediately employed, they should be applied in such a loose manner
as to allow the blood and serosity to escape, and all clots which may after-
ward form washed out. This is good practice, and insures healing by
adhesion in many cases that would otherwise run on to the more tardy
process of granulation. In many large wounds sufficient room for the
escape of the discharges, which are always profuse for the first few hours,
may be obtained by omitting one or even two sutures at the most depen-
dent part of the wound, which, if it be paralled to the axis of the limb
and the direction of the muscular fibres, is easily brought together and
maintained so by a few sutures, placed about an inch apart. If the

FLESH WOUNDS. 289

wound be transverse to the direction of the limb or muscular fibres, with
a cavity formed by the retraction of the divided muscular fibres, it is
difficult to bring its lips into apposition; and when they are coapted by
firm and strong sutures, the skin into which they are inserted is almost
sure to slough, the process of healing being at the same time retarded by
the irritation set up, and the blemish increased to a considerable extent.
In such cases the best plan is to bring the lips together at their extremi-
ties, using the quilled suture, and leave a gap at the central portion of
the wound; or, if the cavity be very deep and in a downward direction,
it may be necessary to make a counter-opening as its inferior part, to
allow the discharges to escape. If such be the case, the lips of the
original wound are to be brought together, and it is possible they may
heal by the adhesive process.

The edges of wounds are kept in apposition by means of sutures,
pins, plasters, and bandages. Plasters are rarely used in veterinary
practice, but their employment, especially in wounds in the lower
portions of the extremities, may with advantage be preferred to that of
sutures, as they cause no blemish. A longitudinal or even transverse
wound situated on a leg is easily brought together by plasters, over which
a moderately firm bandage can be applied; and a wound so treated will
heal in less time, and leave a smaller blemish, than when sutures are
employed.

Various forms of sutures are employed for keeping the edges of
wounds together; the interrupted suture, Fig. 28, is, however, the form
mostly in use, and the material '' the metallic suture wire." The wire
causes less irritation than thread, and is to be always used in prefer-
ence.

Contused wounds generally contain serum or a mixture of blood and
serum under the skin. Unless very extensive injury is apparent, the ap-
plication of a stimulating liniment will be serviceable:

Gum camphor li.

Olive oil § ij.

Dissolve the camphor in the oil; if a more active action is desired, add to
the above:

Oil of turpentine 3 i-

290 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

In the progress of any serious contused wound, there are two distinct
periods, namely, the sej)aration of the slough produced by the contusion,
and that of the repair of the chasm by granulations. If the parts around
are much bruised, superficial slough may ensue to a considerable extent. In
this case clean the raw surface withcastile soap and warm Avater, to which
is added one per cent of carbolic acid. Keep the part clean and covered
with healing ointment:

Prepared carbonate of zinc § ss.

Lard | iij.

Lay a fold or two of soft rags on it to protect it. If the wound does not
heal readily, add to this ointment a little turpentine. Before healthy
granulations can form, the wound must discharge itself of all dead
matter. Minor contused wounds do not generally run to sloughing.

The great principle in the treatment of contused luounds is to render
them of a simple character by giving to the confined matter and extrava-
sated blood a free exit by making an incision at the lowest part. All
contused wounds, however,, do not require to be opened, because the
effect of the stimulating liniments which may be applied is often sufficient
to rouse the blood-vessels and absorbents to remove the effused fluids.
In all contused wounds, whether great or small, there is always, it must
be remembered, some destruction, though it may be very slight, of the
subcutaneous tissues or muscles. The products resulting from such
causes must be removed. If the powers of nature are not sufficient,
their more speedy removal must be assisted by art.

In lacerated loounds, the ragged edges should first be cut away with a
pair of scissors, after which the inflammation at first existing in the con-
tused and neighboring parts must be reduced by poulticing before the
healing process will commence. For a poultice boiled and mashed tur-
nips are highly recommended, or linseed meal may be used.

For abraded surfaces, stypic collodium is an excellent application:

Collodion § v.

Carbolic acid § ss.

Tannin 3 ij.

For simple abrasions of the cuticle, Kennedy's extract of Pinus canaden-
sis is a very useful astringent and stimulant.

FLESH WOUNDS. 291

During the healing process, serum is very apt to collect in cavities in
the wound. Though punctured, the sacs are apt to fill and refill, and
sometimes there is a great deal of trouble in getting rid of them. They
are best treated by being freely laid open, and injected with a one per
cent solution of carbolic acid.

In the special treatment of punctured wounds, if the puncture does
not extend into a joint or through the sheath of a tendon, the best plan
is to lay open and convert them into ordinary incised wounds. Inject
with one per cent solution of carbolic acid.

Unless this course is taken, much pain will ensue, because the deeper
tissues, which have been injured and which will become inflamed, have
otherwise no room to swell. Again, unless a free opening is made, the
matter, which is sure to arise from the inflammatory action, will burrow
and form abscesses and sinuses. When this has been done, apply warm
fomentations frequently, or, if possible to keep them in place, poultices
of boiled turnips or linseed meal are preferable. Subsequently dress the
surface of the wound with white lotion:

Sulphate of zinc,

Acetate of lead aa 3 ij.

Water 1 pint.

If there is good reason to think that the puncture has penetrated a
joint or the sheath of a tendon, the case must be treated as one of open
joint.

Wounds of the Abdomen,
On account of the structures which they involve, and the danger of
intestinal protrusion, require a specialty of management, more particu-
larly when situated in the inferior portion of the abdominal walls.

1st. Shallow punctures, involving the muscles, but not penetrating
through the whole thickness of the floor of the belly, are very apt to
cause multiple abscesses. The pus formed in the wound, being unable to
find exit on account of the smallness of the opening, burrows between
the abdominal fascia and muscles, separates them from each other, caus-
ing pain and swelling; at the same time small abscesses form in various
parts, which are difficult to heal.

2d. Deeper punctures, penetrating almost or completely through the
walls, the peritoneum being divided or not as the case may be, are apt to

292 VETERLNAKY MEDICINE AND 8UKGEKY.

become enlarged by the pressure of the contained viscera, and to cause
death by allowing the protrusion and escape of the intestines.

Treatment. — The treatment for the first form must be conducted
with the view to allow the free escape of pus and other discharges, and
for this it may be necessary to dilate the external opening. This, how-
ever, must be done very carefully, or the second danger may be induced.
Very often the burrowing of the discharges is promoted by the drying of
the surface of the wound. This is more apt to prove injurious when
the hair is long, as the hair and dry discharge become matted together
over the opening, which is thus effectually jjlugged up. Care must be
taken that this does not occur, and for its prevention the hair must be
clipped round the orifice, and the parts carefully washed and kept clean.
If it is necessary to dilate the opening, the incision should be shal-
low, and along the long axis of the belly. When abscesses form, it is
always necessary that they should be opened early, as the fascia, being
very tough and elastic, allows extensive infiltrations or burrowing of the
pus.

The deeper punctures must be treated with the view to prevent the
escape of the intestines. The discharges from them must be allowed
free exit; but whilst doing this, their extension by the weight of the vis-
cera must be jDrevented, and this may be done very effectually by inclos-
ing the body of the patient in a common bed-sheet, sewn firmly round
him. This will form a suitable support to the weakened walls, and at
the same time allow the escape of the discharges. Should it, however,
become clogged up by the coagulation of these, a small hole may be
made in it immediately below the wound.

When the peritoneal cavity is actually penetrated, or even when it is
only nearly so, the medical treatment should be conducted with a view
to lessen the danger of peritonitis. Purgatives are to be withheld, and
should the pulse be at all disturbed, opium must be given, and the large
bowels unloaded by enemas; fomentations to the belly are to be perse-
vered in until the danger of inflammation is past.

Incised wounds upon the belly are to be treated by strong sutures,
the collodion or shellac paste, and the broad-sheet bandage; but fomenta-
tions are not to be applied as in punctured wounds, as they would interfere
with the adhesive process, unless, indeed, the danger of peritonitis be
imminent.

Purgatives should never be administered when the abdomen is

FLESH WOUNDS. 293

wounded, whether the wound be deep or shallow, as they may excite the
most dangerous complications.

Wounds penetrating the walls may heal up externally, but generally
a hernia of greater or lesser magnitude remains, forming a permanent
blemish.

FROST-BITE.

The first effect of cold is to diminish the vital action of the part to
which it is applied. This state of depression, when not continued too
long, is succeeded by a more than usual activity, or reaction; and if this
alternation be oft repeated, the part becomes permanently weakened,
being slightly swelled, of a purple color (as is well shown in horses with
white heels), not so warm as usual, and afterward becomes inflamed.
The skin will now crack, and a discharge of sanguineous matter take
place.

More intense cold not only weakens, but entirely suspends vital
action. The part becomes pale, insensible, and shrivelled, and is said to
ho frost-bitten. The skm, particularly tlie heel, will often slough across
from side to side, forming a strip of dead skin, underneath which is a
deep chasm, called a cracked heel.

In other instances, and particularly during long-continued snowy
weather, with partial thaws, succeeded by sharp frosts, the deeper-seated
tissues of the coronet lose their vitality, and deep and extensive sloughs
are thrown off, leaving the tendons, ligaments, and even the articula-
tions exposed. The animal now suffers from all the agonizing pain,
fever, emaciation, etc., which characterize open joint, and too often suc-
cumbs, or has to be destroyed.

Treatment. — Treatment consists in the application of poultices of
linseed meal or of boiled turnips, succeeded by cold water and mild as-
triugents, such as:

Sulphate of zinc 3 ss.

Water § x.

and finally blisters to the coronet. A good blister for such cases is:

Biniodide of mercury 3 i.

Lard 3 vi.

294 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

A high-heeled shoe upon the foot as soon as the jDoultices are discontin-
ued may give relief. In the treatment of frost-bites poultices should not
be applied for too long a period, for after the slough is thrown off the
parts recover more quickly without than with poultices; and, as a general
rule, frost-bites are at first best treated witli cold applications; but if
sloughing has commenced, poultices, irrigations, or fomentations are to
be employed, succeeded by cold mild astringents, antiseptics, or deodor-
izers, such as charcoal.

BURNS AND SCALDS.

These are common at iron works, and result from horses falling on
hot dross, the bursting of steam-pipes, etc.

The division of burns is, from time immemorial, into three classes —
(1.) Burns producing mere redness; (2.) Those causing vesication; and
(3.) Those causing death of the part burnt.

The first class is attended with mere superficial inflammation, termi-
nating with or without — more generally with — desquamation of the cuti-
cle and temporary loss of the hair.

The second class is attended by a higher degree of inflammation,
causing the cutis to exude serum, and to form vesicles, followed in most
instances by suppuration and the formation of obstinate ulcers. The
formation and increase of these vesicles may be often prevented by
proper treatment.

The third class of burns is attended with mortification from disor-
ganization of structure; the skin and subcutaneous tissues being literally
roasted or broiled, as the case may be, the blood coagulated in its vessels,
and the circulation of the part completely stopped.

In all cases of severe scalds or burns there is more or less supervening
fever, manifested by shiverings, coldness of the skin and extremities, pros-
tration of strength, restlessness, quick and feeble pulse, and heavy or
sighing respiration; the surface of the burnt part, if destroyed, will become
pale and leathery, the hair coming off in patches, leaving a denuded sur-
face, from which issues a thin serous discharge. Swelling of the part now
appears, and in about four or five days a line of demarcation surrounds
the dead part; the chasm widens, the burnt portion contracts and dries,
leaving the exposed granulating surface full in view; the granulations

FLESH WOUNDS. 295

are white, spongy, and moist; there is no discharge of laudable pus, but
of a thinnish ichorous matter, generally of a dirty-white color. The
slough now falls off, leaving a wound of more or less magnitude, accord-
ing to the severity of the burn, which takes many months to heal; it
then leaves a cicatrix of a hard, dense, cartilaginous nature, which con-
tracts more or less, pulling the surrounding skin into puckered folds,
which ever afterward constitute an unsightly blemish.

The most intractable cases are those where the regions of the elbow
and shoulder are burnt or scalded. Here, in consequences of the contin-
ual action of the parts, and the attrition caused by the motion of the
chest against the muscles of the inner part of the arm, the wound never
heals. Very often the whole limb is burnt, exposing tendons, muscles,
and destroying the tissues j^rotecting the articular cavities; such cases
should always be destroyed at once. But if the gluteal region or thick
part of the thigh be burnt, involving none of the joints, recovery may
ensue, although the injury be excessive.

Horses sometimes die from the first shock; the animal sinks from col-
lapse; the rigors become severe, with great restlessness, feebleness of the
pulse, sighing respiration, rapid prostration, and death.

Treatment. — In all the curable cases, Oarron oil, namely, linseed
oil and lime water, in equal parts, is to be applied frequently. A good
plan is to dredge this over with flour, or if the oil and lime water is not
to be easily obtained, dredging with flour is a good plan, or apply cloths wet
with a saturated solution of bicarbonate of sodium. The Carron oil and
flour prevent pain, by excluding the atmosphere; and should neither
remedy be at hand, the parts may be protected by cotton wool or anything
that will exclude the air. A solution of nitrate of silver, five grains to the
ounce of water, to be applied continually, or as often as each application
dries, for several hours, is said to be effective. Opium and stimulants
are to be administered, and the bowels acted upon by a purgative:

Powdered aloes 3 vi.

Powdered gentian 3 ij.

Linseed meal and molasses sufficient

To make one ball.

This should operate in ten or twelve hours. In about four days pus will
form. The wound has now to be treated like any other suppurating sore.

296 VETERLNABY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

If the burn is slight, and the structure of the part merely inflamed, the
white lotion is a good application :

Sulphate of zinc,

Acetate of lead aa 3 ij.

Water 1 pi^t.

POISONED WOUNDS.

The bites or stings of insects cause a good deal of irritation and pain
to animals, but are not of much importance, and seldom come under
notice. They should be treated by dilute ammonia, or the following is
recommended to allay the itching:

Sulphate of zinc gr. x.

Water § ij.

Sometimes the eyes become inflamed, and the eyelids swollen and pain-
ful from this cause. The best preventive is laurel water, applied to the
i:)arts twice a week.

The poison of snakes appears to cause death in two ways; when very
strong, by directly destroying the irritability of the nervous system, like
some of the most powerful narcotic poisons; when less powerful, by dif-
fuse inflammation of the areolar tissue, abscesses, and gangrene. In the
first-named instances the symptoms are extreme dej)ression, and a sink-
ing, feeble, flickering, intermittent pulse, coldness of the extremities,
dilated pupils, speedy insensibility, stupor, and death. In the second
form, the symptoms are of the most alarming asthenic character, from
the moment of the infliction of the bite, and are succeeded, if the patient
live sufficiently long, by diffuse suppuration and gangrene. The post-
mortem examinations of such cases reveal a dark, alkaline, and fluid state
of the blood, which emits a peculiarly sickly odor, intense congestion of
the lungs and spleen, with other appearances indicative of ' * death of the
blood " (necrasmia).

The local treatment consists in preventing absorption into the circu-
lation by tying a ligature round the bitten limb upon the cardiac side of
the wound; the immediate excision of the part, followed by the applica-

FLESH WOUNDS. 297

tion of cups exhausted of air (cupping) ; followed by the free use of the
actual cautery.

The constitusioual treatment must be directed to combat depression
by stimulants — wine, brandy, whiskey, or, according to the latest
method practised in India, the injection of ammonia into the veins.

Sometimes the skin and subcutaneous tissues are destroyed by the
action of some poisonous substance, such as the mineral or other acids,
caustic alkalies, etc. These substances, when used intentionally to re-
move morbid structures, or when applied to unhealthy wounds, are called
caustics. "When spilled upon or applied to a large surface, their effects
are similar to those of burns; they inflame and afterward destroy the part.
If concentrated, they chemically destroy the vitality of the tissues, and
results like those supervening on burns are the consequence.

Treatment. — If an acid has been the cause, it is well to wash the
parts in some alkaline solution, to neutralize its effect as much as possi-
ble, and to destroy any that may be left on the surface. If a caustic al-
kali has been the cause, a weak acidulated solution is to be used, such as
vinegar and Avater, and the after-treatment must be according to the
general principles laid down for the treatment of burns.

CHAPTER XIII.

ULCEES AND FISTULA.
Ulcers, Poll-evil, Fistulous Withers, Saddle and Harness Galls.

ULCERS.

Definition. — An ulcer is defined to be a solution of continuity
caused by ulceration, and its varieties in Veterinary Surgery may be ar-
ranged under six heads. 1st. Healthy ulcer; 2d. Weak ulcer; 3d. Indo-
lent ulcer; 4:th. Inflamed ulcer; 6t7i. Gangrenous or phagedenic, or
sloughing ulcer; 6th. Specific ulcer.

Isf. The healthy ulcer is smooth at its edges, which are neither
everted nor inverted, adherent to the granulations, and when they rise
to a level with the skin, a film or cicatrix is formed like a semi-transpar-
ent ring round the edges, and gradually spreads over the wound. The
granulations are small, firm, numerous, and of a fine florid color, pointed
at their tops, and discharging a thick laudable pus.

But little treatment is required for this kind of ulcer, beyond rest
and cleanliness.

2fZ. The weak ulcer. The granulations are pale, large, flabby, not
pointed, but even bulbous at their tops, less vascular, and less apt to
bleed on being touched than those of the healthy ulcer; they are unat-
tended with pain, rise above the level of the skin, so that the margins of
the ulcer are hid from view. The discharge is thin, pale, and watery.

This kind of ulcer is caused by some debilitating local or general in-
fluence. It is often found in the hind legs of low-bred animals, and
arises in them from the venous congestion and dropsical effusion, which
are so often met with in round-legged cart horses. It is associated per-

300 VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND SUEGEEY.

haps with some constitutional weakness, arising from bad food, or other
cause of general debility. Healthy ulcers, when improperly treated, are
apt to degenerate to this form.

The treatment ought to consist of some mild astringent dressing, as
the solution of sulphate of zinc or of copper, the periodical use of the
nitrate of silver — say, every three days, if thought requisite — and the
careful application of a bandage, both to the ulcer and to its neighborhood,
in order to stimulate the granulations and to correct the tendency to
congestion. The general system is to be corrected by a gentle purgative,
succeeded by tonics and diuretics; at the same time the strength is to be
kept up by good, nourishing, but easily digestible food, dry food being
preferable to moist. The patient ought to have regular exercise, and
great attention must be paid to cleanliness.

dcL Indolent ulcer, found usually about the coronet of old horses.
Its edges are thick, prominent, comparatively insensible, smooth, shining,
firm, incompressible, and without any appearance of cicatrix; the sur-
rounding parts are swollen, hard, incompressible, and if the skin be
white, discoloration will be seen from congestion of the vessels; the sur-
face of the ulcer is nearly devoid of granulations, smooth, glossy, and
whitish, gray, or brown in color; the discharge is thin, watery, and
scanty. The treatment of this ulcer is by blister, succeeded by gently
stimulating dressings, but bandages do more harm than good. The
constitutional treatment must depend upon the condition of the animal,
but generally a purgative is useful.

Ath. Inflamed ulcer. The edges are red or purple, swollen, hot,
tense, tender, and painful; the sore presents no granulations, but has a
raw, pulpy, foul, and even livid appearance; the discharge is offensive,
profuse, mingled with blood and ulcerative debris; the pain is great, and
there is always some attendant fever. This ulcer may be caused by the
presence of some foreign body in the part, which must be removed; it
may be a piece of dead tissue, skin, ligament, or bone, as when this ulcer
is produced by a tread. Whatever it be, the first step in the treatment
must be its removal. This being done, the inflamed ulcer must be con-
verted into a healthy one by means calculated to subdue excessive irri-
tability. The most useful local applications for this purpose are warm .
fomentations and poultices, combined with opiates; the gederal treatment
to consist of a purgative, succeeded by febrifuges, and the diet to be
light, and easy of digestion.

ULCERS AED FISTUL.E. 301

bth. The ^phagedenic, gangrenous, or sloughing ulcer, which may
arise from constitutional debility or from local causes, as frost-bites, is
that in which the edges are very irregular, and of a dark purple appearance,
extending a considerable way into the surrounding parts; they are often
inverted, and exceedingly painful. The surface of the ulcer is uneven,
of a dark, livid color, presenting a very irritable appearance and much
surrounding swelling. The discharge is thin, ichorous, and mixed with
blood. The ulcer enlarges with great rapidity, the destructive process
being carried on both by ulceration and sloughing. In some cases many
points of ulceration form in the neighborhood of each other, the ulcera-
tion taking place around several central sloughs; these by enlargement
coalesce, and ultimately form one large ulcer, embracing, as in some
cases of " carbuncle of the coronary band," a space of several inches.
The treatment of this variety is a matter of great urgency and import-
ance, but not always satisfactory.

Treatment. — Free scarifications of the part, to relieve congestion;
the removal of all sources of irritation, and the application of emollient
and antiseptic poultices or fomentations, constitute the best local treat-
ment. If the ulceration continues to spread, the gentle application of
nitrate of silver to the edges may benefit. The constitutional derange-
ment must be treated by purgatives, anodynes, or sedatives, succeeded
by tonics; and the diet regulated according to the stage and variety of
the accompanying symptoms.

POLL-EVIL.

Definition. — This is a fistulous ulcer situated on the supero-posterior
portion of the cranium immediately behind the ears of the horse, and is
caused by accidental violence, or by the habitual use of a tight bearing-
rein.

At the first stage it may be recognized as a soft fluctuating tumor sur-
rounded by inflammatory swelling, enlargement of the superior cervical
lymphatics, and stiffness of the neck; or the inflammation of the sur-
rounding tissue may have subsided, leaving a prominent swelling — a se-
rous abscess.

From the peculiar position of the injury, the matter has no depending

302 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

orifice; and lience it generally happens that, unless artificial assistance by
free incision is given for the escape of the matter, it Avill burrow down-
Avards among and under the ligaments which support the head. Among
these it is apt to form large and deep sinuses and fistulse.

These sinuses often extend down to the bone. The offensive smell of
the matter -contained in them will indicate this extension. If the mat-
ter is suffered to remain long in contact with the bone, it will j^robably
cause caries.

Treatment. — Before pus is formed, reduce the inflammation, if
present, by the application of cold water to the part, and by the adminis-
tration of purgatives internally. When the inflammation is overcome,
reduce tlie swelling by friction with iodine, hut do not puncture; but if
suppuration is established, the abscess cannot be opened too soon, and it
is best to make the incision at its base, to allow the pus to escape from
its most inferior part. !For this purpose, a free incision is to be made,
and it must not be allowed to close too soon; fomentations are to be re-
peatedly applied, but no special application is required, the ordinary
treatment for abscess being all that is necessary.

If the abscess has already burst, is discharging a foetid unhealthy pus
and the opening is surrounded with fungous granulations, the disease
will be found to have assumed a most formidable aspect; for not only will
the subcutaneous areolar and muscular tissues be involved, but the liga-
mentum nuchce also; which, being tough and elastic, imprisons the pus,
causing it to burrow in various directions, and having a low organization,
its healing powers are exceedingly torpid. The treatment of a case of
this description is a matter of some difficulty, and to be complete, a thor-
ough examination must be made with the probe of all the fistulous ulcers
and sinuses. These must be freely laid open to their very base, and the
whole dressed with a solution of the bichloride of mercury, the chloride
of zinc, or the muriate of antimony; a thin layer of the parts laid open
will thus be destroyed, and the whole converted into a common wound.
The repeated applications of caustics and escharotics are not required,
indeed they do much barm; when once the part is converted into a
healthy-looking wound, all that is necessary is to keep it clean, dress
with mild astringents, and prevent the opening from closing too quickly.

In many cases, setons inserted from the original opening along the
direction of the fistulae, and brought out upon the opposite side of the
poll, are very successful; but if there be many sinuses, the seton

ULCERS AND FISTTJLiE.

303

treatment is not to be depended upon, and it is better to use the knife
freely.

When poll-evil is caused by the bearing-rein, it is deep-seated, perhaps
involving the synovial membrane of the occipito-atloidean articulation,
and some cases have terminated in anchylosis of this joint, causing the
animal to be permanently stiff-necked. In some instances the ulcerative
process has penetrated the capsules of the first or second cervical articu-
lations, causing sudden death by pressure upon the medulla spinalis; in
others, pieces of the bones become detached, keeping up the irritation
and formation of pus; these must be searched for and carefully re-
moved.

FISTULOUS WITHERS.

Fistulous withers are similar in their nature and require much th
same treatment as poll evil. They are nearly always caused by pressure
from the saddle, or collar, or by injuries.

In most cases the mischief is at first very slight, and a day or two's
abstinence from work with a little alteration of the saddle or collar will

Fig. 137.
Fistulous Withers.

generally effect a cure and prevent recurrence. If the skin is tender, a
salt and water dressing may be applied.

When, however, the cause is continued or repeated, the tissues under
the skin become inflamed, and the cartilaginous pads of the heads of the
spines of the vertebrae may be injured. If such should be the case,

304 VETEEINAKY MEDICINE AND SUBGEKY.

omentations must be applied in the first instance to reduce the inflam-
mation. If these fail, as they often do, in bringing about resolution,
matter will probably form under the skin.

Unless a free opening is made for its escape, it will burrow in, under,
and among the muscles, tendons, and ligamentous tissues which lie on
each side of the spine or withers, and will form sinuses. The treatment
in such cases is exactly the same as that of poll evil. Nothing answers
better than the seton recommended above.

Caries of the spinous processes of the bones of the vertebrae occasion-
ally supervenes. It will be indicated by the offensive smell proceeding
from the sinuses. Unlike the similar occurrence in poll evil, this further
development is easily treated; and a radical cure without any injurious
result may generally be effected by removing the injured portions of the
bone by the pincers. The parts, as a general rule, heal over favorably,
and nothing more than a slight hollow will be noticed about the withers.

SADDLE AND HARNESS GALLS.

Though not jorimarily ulcers, harness galls may easily run into them.
Under ordinary use, the skin is sometimes abraded by various parts of
the harness. As soon as observed, the harness should be shifted in some
way, if possible, so as not to rub on the sore spot. If the skin has
not been broken, it may be hardened by rubbing with a saturated solu-
tion of salt and water or alum and water. If the skin is broken, Kennedy's
Pinus canadensis is a useful astringent, or tincture of myrrh and aloes
may be applied, and this is said to have the advantage of keeping flies
away from the sore. Or,

Turpentine | ss.

Vinegar | i.

is useful.

Should a scab be rubbed partly off, trim away the ragged edges and ap-
ply any of the above. If the wound is an extensive one and the scab is
broken, it will probably be best to poultice it until it all comes away, and
hen begin the treatment again to form a new scab.

CHAPTEE XIT.

AGE, AS INDICATED BY THE TEETH.

Structural alterations, Back Teeth, or Molars or Grinders, Anterior teeth or In-
cisors, Distinction between the Temporary and Premanent Incisors, Temporary
or Milk Incisors, Development of the Permanent Teeth, The Mark, Pan-ot Mouth,
Bishop-ing, The Fang-hole or Secondary Mark, Further changes indicating the
Age, Lateral breadth. Triangularity, Length, Slope, Loss of circularity in form
of the jaw, etc.. The Tusks, Collateral circumstances to be taken into conside-
ration.

The principal guide to the age of the horse consists in the indications
given by tlie teeth.

The following pages explain the changes which take place, so as to en-
able the reader to form a correct judgment in regard to age.

Structural alterations take place in the teeth every year from birth
up to the sixth year. Hence there can rarely be any question as to the
real age of a horse up to that date, though dealers often try to deceive the
unwary by various tricks. Such tricks are, however, easily detected.

After the mouth is fully completed, the age can onlj he ap2}^oximaiely
determined by the effect of wear in altering the shape of the teeth, by the
receding of the gums, and by other such signs.

Many circumstances, however, often contribute to modify the effect
of wear on the teeth, and also to increase or decrease the action of time
in other respects. Hence, after six years old, an approximately correct
opinion can only be formed by those who have given to the subject some
time, thought, and trouble.

Back teeth, or Molars or Grinders. — The foal is born usually with

two, sometimes with three, temporary molars in each jaw. About twelve

months old another molar, a permanent tooth, appears, and before the
20

306 VETEKINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

completion of the second year a fifth molar, also a permanent tooth, shows
itself.

About two and a half years old the two anterior temporary molars are
replaced by jjermanent teeth, and between three and four the remaining,
or third, temporary molar is similarly replaced; and about the same time
the last or sixth permanent molar begins to appear. Thus when the
mouth is completed, there are six permanent molars in each jaw, or
twenty-four in all.

These structural changes afford a very good index of the age of the
horse up to the period when they are completed, namely four years old.
The molars, however, are seldom referred to, because their position at the
back of the mouth renders their examination inconvenient and often very
difficult. Neverless, it is useful to be acquainted with the structural
changes of these teeth in cases where there may be a doubt as to the true
age, as indicated by the incisors. After four years old, the molars are
not often taken into consideration in determining the age of the horse.

A supplementary molar known as a ''Wolf's tooth," sometimes ajj-
pears in either jaw. Such teeth seldom cause any inconvenience. If
they do so, they can easily be removed by the pincers, as they are only of
a rudimentary character.

The Anterior Teeth, or Incisors, are six in number in each jaw,
when the mouth is complete ; and in the immediate rear of these in
males, there is usually added one very peculiar pointed tooth on each
side in each jaw, called a tusk. Though there are two crops of incisors,
yet there is but one of tusks. In fact, these teeth, though they begin to
appear about four years old, are not usually fully developed until the
last permanent incisor is more or less up.

The upper incisors are considerably longer and larger than the lower.
Distinction hetween Temporary and Permanent Incisors. —
Temporary, otherwise called Milk, are easily distinguished from Perma-
nent incisors by the following well-marked signs, namely, they are small-
er, whiter, and have more distinct necks. They are smooth externally,
and grooved on the inside, jirobably in order to enable the foal more
easily to grip the teats of the dam. Their fangs are small and have but
little attachment to the gums. The jaws are plump, fleshy and round,
and the teeth are arranged in something like a semicircle.

Permanent teeth, on the other hand, are larger, broader, wider in
their necks, grooved externally and smooth internally, and more discol-

AGE, AS INDICATED BY THE TEETH.

307

ored than milk teeth. The discoloration is due to the lodgment of
the juices and other matters connected with the food in the grooves.
The object of the external grooving probably is to enable the animal to
get a better grip on grass and such-like food. The plumpness and cir-
cularity of the jaw is less than in the younger animal, and it gradually
decreases, until in old age the teeth are arranged in a nearly straight
line.

The Temporary or Milk Incisors.— The foal is born with his
teeth in a rudimentary state in the gums. At various periods during the
first ten months the different temporary incisors appear. (Figure 138.)

Fig. 138.
Teeth of a Foal.

Under one year old, the foal is also clearly distinguished by a woolly tail.

The yearling is complete in all six incisors, but several well-marked

signs distinguish his mouth from that of the two-year old. The teeth

at this period show but little signs of wear. The corner teeth are mere

Fig. 139.
Teeth at One Year.

shells, having no inner walls, and all the teeth are in close juxtaposition.
(Figure 139.)

At two years old, the inner wall of the corner teeth has grown up
level with the outer wall. The centre teeth show considerable signs of

308

VETERINAKy MEDICINE AND 8UKGERY.

wear, and indeed all the teeth appear somewhat smaller than they did in
the yearling. They also stand somewhat wide apart at their necks, on
account of the gradual growth of the jaw in width. (Figure 140.)

Fig. 140.
Teeth at Two Years,

Development of the Permanent Teeth.— A few months before
three years old, the horse sheds the two centre milk teeth, which are re-

FlG. 141.
Teeth at Three Years.

placed by permanent. Thus the jaw contains at three years old two
centre permanent teeth and two milk teeth on each side. (Figure 141. )
A few months before four, the horse sheds the two next milk teeth,
which are replaced by permanent. Thus the jaw now contains four
permanent and one milk tooth on each side (Figure 142). The appear-
ance of the mouth, when closed, and also the mode in which the teeth
meet, are shown in Figure 165. This figure will be presently contrasted
with Figure 163, which shows the mode in which the mouth closes, and
the teeth meet in extreme old age.

AGE, AS INDICATED BY THE TEETH.

309

A few months before five, the horse sheds the two remaining milk
teeth, which are replaced by permanent. Thus the jaw is now furnished

Fig. U-i.
Teeth at Four Years.

with six permanent incisors, but the corner teeth are mere shells, having
no internal wall. The absence of this wall distinguishes the five from
the six year old mouth (Figure 143).

Fig. 143.
Teeth at Five Years.

A few months before six, the inner wall of the corner teeth has
grown up level with the outer wall. (Figure 144).

The mouth is now fully comj)lete in incisors, and no further struc-
tural changes take place in them. As a general rule, the upper tempo-
rary teeth fall out a little before those in the lower jaw.

Up to six years old, therefore, inasmuch as we have structural changes

310

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

to guide us, there can seldom be any doubt as to the age of the animal.
There are, however, some well-authenticated instances of abnormal de-
velopment of the permanent incisors, but they are rare.

High feeding encourages the growth of the teeth in common with the
rest of the frame. Hence thorough-breds are somewhat more forward in
their mouths than half-bred animals.

The Mark.— Hitherto no notice has been taken of the " Mark," or
Infundibulum, not because the marks in the young mouth do not afford
some indication of the age ; but because fuller and more satisfactory

Fig. 144.
Teeth at Six Years.

evidence up to six years old is afEorded by the structural changes detailed
above. After six, however, recourse must be had to the indications given
by the marks and other slight, but gradual, alterations which take place
in the form of the teeth.

The Mark or Infundibulum is a very peculiar hollow extending, when
the tooth first comes up, about half an inch down the temporary and
rather deeper down the permanent incisors. Figure 151.

Thus in the tooth, as it originally ajipears, there are four walls of
enamel. The remainder of the tooth consists chiefly of dentine, less *■
hard than enamel, and more like ivory. A small quantity of crusta
petrosa is also found on the outside.

When an incisor first comes up, the hollow affords lodgment for the de-
hris of the food and the juices expressed from it, and therefore soon looks

AGE, AS INDICATED BY THE TEETH.

311

black. As the tooth wears down, the hollow of course disappears; but
the surface of the dentine immediately below the original hollow, being
a somewhat soft material, has become stained for some distance down.
Thus there still is a black mark. With the further wear of the tooth the
stained portion of the dentine wears away, and the ''mark " is then said
to be out. The mark, as the reader will easily see from this description,
is in a constantly changing condition.

Premising that the time, which the mark will take to wear out, will
vary to a greater or less degree according to certain circumstances de-
tailed hereafter, the following are general rules for guidance.

Between three and five years old the marks are very plain in all the
permanent incisors. Fig. 143 and 143. At six, the marks are wearing out
of the two centre teeth, which came up at three years old. They are
plain in the two next, and perfectly fresh m the two corner teeth.
Fig. 144.

At seven, the marks have disappeared from the centre teeth, are wear-
ing out of the two next, and are distinct and plain only in the corner
teeth. Fig. 145.

Fig. 145.
The Mark at Seven Years.

At eight, the marks have disappeared from all but the corner teeth,
in which they are becoming indistinct. Fig. 146.

At nine, the marks are not usually found in any of the teeth. Fig. 147.

For about two years after the mark has disappeared in each tooth,
there may still be seen in the form of a star a trace of the enamel which
lined the bottom of the original hollow, and which underlies it for some
depth. This star of course decreases in size with the wear of the teeth.
About twelve or thirteen the last traces of the enamel have usually dis-

312 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

appeared even from the corner teeth, but it may remain some time
longer.

Many casual circumstances, nowever, cause a certain degree of devia-

FlG. 146.
The Mark at Eight Years.

tion from these general rules. The time, which the mark takes to wear
out, will vary in different horses according to the hardness or otherwise
of the teeth and according to the nature of the food on which the animal

Fig. 147.
The Mark at Nine Years.

is kept. In grass-fed horses the marks usually remain at least a year and
sometimes two years longer than in those fed on hard food. Again in
parrot-mouthed horses, that is, where the upper overlaps the lower jaw,
the marks may remain for many years. (Fig. 148.)

On the other hand, some horses, which have a trick of biting the
manger, wear down their teeth very rapidly, and therefore lose their
marks very early. Horses fed on salt marshes where the sea sand is
washed up among the grass, or on sandy plains or meadows, are affected
by the increased friction on the teeth caused by the sand. Occasionally
a projecting tooth in the upper jaw may cause unusual friction on the

AGE, AS INDICATED BY THE TEETH,

313

corresponding tooth of the lower jaw, and so may hasten obliteration of
the mark.

Most of these and other causes of irregularity of wear, which might
be mentioned, are at once apparent to a careful and accurate observer,
and will scarcely prevent his forming a pretty correct opinion of the age.

The upper incisors, as previously stated, are considerably longer and
larger than the lower, and the infundibulum is nearly twice as deep.
The marks therefore remain longer than in the lower teeth. This is
mentioned in passing, lest the reader should be misled, if he should by

Fig. 148.
Parrot Mouth.

chance refer to the indications given by the upper teeth to corroborate or
correct any opinion as to age, about which he may be in doubt from the
appearance of the lower jaw.

Occasionally the dentine on the side of the infundibulum may become
stained and even black, and in such cases something like a double mark
may be observed. An instance of this peculiarity is shown in a seven-
year old mouth. Figure 149.

The moucn taKen as a whole is broader at seven year old than at any
other period. After this it gradually narrows with age. In this respect
General Eitzwygram saya the drawings, taken as a consecutive series, are
in some degree at fault, as he found it impossible get mouths of the re-

314

VETEKINAKY MEDICINE AND 8UEGEKY.

quired ages to a form a perfect ideal series. For instance the mouth
represented in Fig. 160 (extreme age) obviously has belonged to a very
different animal to that shown in the preceding figure. Again Figs. 160
and 161 are fair specimens, though very diverse, of what may be expected
in extreme age in various cases.

Bishop-ing. — Marks on the incisors are occasionally, though rarely,

Fio. 149.
Double Mark at Seven Years.

stimulated by means of caustic or the hot iron by low dealers with the
view of deceiving the unwary.

The fraud is readily detected, because, though it is easy to make a black
mark on the crowns of the teeth, yet it is impossible to restore the wall
of pearly enamel, which, as explained above, surrounds the natural mark
or mfundibulum. Fig. 150.

Fig. 150,
Real and Simulated Mark.

The Fang-hole or Secondary Mark. — About nine years old, in con-
sequence of the wearing down of the teeth, a slight trace of the fang-hole
usually appears in the centre teeth, and somewhat later in the other teeth.
It is indicated by a slight discoloration of the tooth at the above point.
There is, however, no actual hole, because with advancing years the upper
part of the original cavity has become filled up with a sort of spuri-
ous dentine, which is more yellow than the true material, of which the

AGE, AS INDICATED BY THE TEETH. 315

body of the tooth consists. As age increases, this indication of the fanff

Fig. 151.
Tooth Showing Mark and Fang-Hole.

hole, which is sometimes called the '*' Secondary mark " becomes rather

more plain. It, however, affords no reliable data by

which to judge of the age, and is only mentioned in

this place, lest the reader should mistake it for the

remains of the infundibulum. The enamel, it will

be remembered, is pearly white, whilst the mark of

the fang-hole is brownish-yellow. The position of

the fang-hole, marked B, is shown in Figure 151.

Further Changes indicating the Age. — It will
be seen, that about nine the " marks " entirely fail ns,
and indeed after seven or eight they can hardly be
said to afford any very reliable data.

From eight years old and upwards the best indica-
tions of the age arc given by the gradual alterations
which take place in the shape of the teeth from wear
and in closing of the mouth.

Lateral hreadtli, etc. — The teeth originally are
hroad laterally at their upper surfaces, otherwise
called their croAvns or "tables," and thin from front
to rear. Figs, 142, 143, and 144. They narrow grad-
ually towards their necks and fangs. Hence, as their
upper surfaces wear off, the teeth become narrower
year by year. In very old horses there is often a posi-
tive interval between the teeth, Figures 160 and 161 Fiq, 153.

, ,, Ti !• 1 • 11 • Changes in the Crown

and they appear like sticks m the jaw. of tij^ xeeth.

316

VETERIJSTABY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

The gradual effect of wear in producing this alteration is shown in
Figure 152 where successive portions of the upper surface of the tooth are
represented as having been removed by the saw. The original form of
the tooth is shown in Fig. 153.

Fig. 153.
Original Form of a Tooth.

The amount of wear on the upper surface of the teeth is greater in
the young mouth than it is afterwards, because in youth the teeth meet
more fairly than they do in after years. Compare Fig. 165 and Fig.
163. The rate of wear gradually decreases, as years increase, because
the teeth do not meet so directly, but on the contrary project more and
more forward in something like two parallel lines. For example a quarter
of an inch will usually be worn off the surface between five and six years
old, whilst, probably not more than that quantity will be worn off between
twenty and twenty-five years old.

Triangularity. — A further very well-marked indication of increasing
age is given by increasing depth from front to rear in the upper surfaces
or crowns of the teeth. This increase of depth will be noticed if Figs. 145
and 146 are carefully compared with Figs. 142, 143, and 144. Further
wear causes the crowns of the teeth to assume a triangular form. The
cause of this will be clearly seen on reference to Fig. 152. The teeth,
though they diminish in lateral breadth, increase in thickness from front
to rear all the way from the crown to the fang. Figs. 152 and 153.

At six and up to eight years old, the teeth are all broad laterally at
their upper surfaces. Figs. 144, 145, and 146. Up to this time the exact
year, as the reader will recollect, is pretty well known by the ''marks."

AGE, AS INDICATED BY THE TEETH.

317

At nine, when the marks fail, the alterations in the crown surface or
table come to our aid. The two centre teeth, which came up at three,
become somewhat triangular. Fig. 147. At ten, the two next teeth show
similar signs. Fig, 154. At eleven, the corner teeth have become some-

FiG. 154.
Teeth assuming triangular shape at ten years.

what triangular. Fig. 155. At twelve, the triangularity has increased in

Fig. 155.
Triangular shape of teeth at eleven years.

all the teeth. Fig. 156. This alteration continues to increase in all the

Fig. 15G.
Triangular shape of teeth at twelve years.

teeth, until in very old horses the depth from front to rear exceeds the late-
ral width of the teeth. Figure 157 shows an average mouth of sixteen years
old. Figure 158 represents the appearance at twenty. Figure 159 shows
twenty-four; whilst Figs. 160 and 161 may serve as speciments of the teeth
in extreme age.

318 VETEKINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

length. — Again, as age increases, the teeth, notwithstanding they

Fig. 157.
Triangular shape of teeth at sixteen years.

really wear down, become apparently longer. This effect is due to the
fleshy parts of the gums receding faster than the teeth wear down. In

Fig. 158.
Triangular shape of teeth at twenty years.

extreme age, however, when the gums have receded as far as they can.

Fig. 159.
Triangular shape of teeth at twenty-four years.

the effect of wear causes the teeth to become visibly as well as really
shorter.

Fig. 160.
Shape of tooth crowns in old age.

AGE, AS INDICATED BY TUE TEETH.

319

Slope. — An alteration also takes place in the position or " slope " of the
teeth, as regards their closing. This is due to the effects of wear. The

Fia. 161.
Shape of tooth crowns in extreme old age.

original form of the tooth is shown in Fig. 153. Its upper portion, it «rill

Fig. 163.
Slope of the teeth in extreme old age.

Fig. 163.
Closing of the mouth In extreme old age.

be seen, is nearly perpendicular, whilst the lower part lies in a more
horizontal position. Hence in youth the teeth meet directly, whilst

Fig. 164.
Slope of Teeth at Two Tears.

in extreme age they can scarcely be said to meet at all. Their stumps
project forward in two almost parallel lines. (Figs. 163 and 163.)

320

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

The various changes which take place in the i^osition of the teeth in
reference to their position or " slope " are shown in Figs. 162 to 167. At
two years old (Fig. 164) the gums are full, fleshy and prominent, and the
teeth are nearly perpendicular. The gradual changes which take place
in the slojje with increasing years are shown perhaps more clearly in the
engravings than could be explained in words.

Up to twelve years old, there can scarcely be much diflScuIty in form-
ing a pretty correct judgment as to the age. After that time it requires
more time, practice and opportunity than most people have at disposal or
care to take to obtain the requisite knowledge.

It would probably scarcely interest one not a professional veterinarian,
to trace very minutely the changes which take place after twelve years
old. Suffice it to say, that the gums continue year by year to recede, the
teeth become apparently longer and longer and really narrower, and con-
sequently the intervals between them increase, and they project forward
more and more in a straight line.

Fig. 1(56.
Slope of Teeth at Twelve Years.

Fi3. 167.
Slope of Teeth at Eighteen Years.

About twenty or twenty-two, and in some instances a good de
sooner, the teeth, which up to this period have apparently increased in
length, begin to grow visibly shorter, because the gums are so far ab-
sorbed that they can recede no further. Hence all further wear shows
its effects by diminishing the length of the teeth.

Loss of Circularity.— In the very young horse the teeth are arranged
almost in the form of a semicircle. Year by year this form decreases,
until in old horses the teeth are arranged in something like a straight
line. Compare Figs. 138, 139, 140, 141, and 143 with Figs. 158, 159,
160, and 161.

These drawings of the teeth have all been made from nature; and
hence, although pretty normal specimens have been selected, yet in vari-
ous ways they present in some instances irregularities and deviations from

AGE, AS INDICATKD BY THE TEETH, 321

a positively regular rule of wear. Perfect regularity iu wear and in the
effect of wear is seldom found in nature. In some instances it will be
observed that the enamel is higher and more prominent than in others.
This difference does not indicate or in any degree depend on age, but
simply on the comparative hardness or softness of the enamel and den-
tine.

The Tusks. — In horses, as distinguished from mares, great assistance
in determining the age is derived from the presence of the Tusks, which
are generally wanting in the latter. The tusks usually begin to appear
in a very slight degree about three and a half or four years old. Their
sharp points then just pierce the gums, and they continue to grow until
fully developed about five or five and a half years old. They do not meet
like other teeth, and therefere do not suffer from wear from that cause.
They suffer, however, from wear in the course of mastication, and in fact
undergo greater changes than any other teeth, and so form a valuable
guide as to age.

The tusk is a very peculiar shaped elongated tooth. Internally it
consists of dentine, and is protected on the outside only by enamel. The
enamel, however, overlaps the dentine, and hence arises the sharp edge or
hook of the newly developed tusk, which may be felt if the finger be
brought round it from behind.

This sharpness gradually wears off. After seven it has disappeared,
and in each succeeding year the tusk becomes not only rounder and
blunter, but its upper portion wears off. It also appears yellow, on ac-
count of the dentine becoming exposed by reason of the enamel wearing
off its exterior surface. The tusks, unlike other teeth, do not apparently
increase in length with years, but become shorter and shorter. In fact
the effect of wear is greater on them than on other teeth, and it is also
greater than the process of the receding of the gum. In very old horses
the tusk is very little above the level of the gum. Mares sometimes have
four small rudimentary tusks.

The alterations, which gradually take place in the foi-m of the tusks,
are shown in Figure 16*8.

Collateral circumstances be taken into consideration.— In
judging of the age of the horse by the teeth, every collateral circumstance
requires to be taken into consideration, such as the form of the mouth,
the way in which the teeth meet and close on each other, the food on
which the animal has been kept, any irregularity in the upper teeth which
31

323 VETERLNAKY MEDIOINE AND SURGERY.

may cause increased or diminished wear on the lower teeth, and also the
habits of the horse in the stable. The teeth of animals which bite at
the rack or manger whilst being cleaned, and horses addicted to " crib-
biting " invariably present appearances of wear beyond their real age.

As the horse becomes old, the fulness of the chin under the mouth
disappears. The inferior margin of the branches of the bone of the
iovver jaw also become thin. Lastly, the general appearance of the
aged horse is much. influenced by the work he has done and the treat-
ment he has received.

Age must not be judged by any one sign, but by a mean judiciously

Six Years. EiKlit Years. Twelve Years. Old Age.

Fio. 168.
The Alterations in the Tusks at Different Ages.

struck between all the signs, and by a careful consideration of all collateral
circumstances. It never happens that all the signs combine together to de-
ceive a careful and well-informed observer.

From these pages the reader will perceive that after six years old, i.e.,
after the structural changes in the mouth are completed, it is impossible
to lay down any one single definite rule by which the age can be ascer-
tained. Still, with a little trouble and attention there is no real difficulty
in acquiring a knowledge of the horse's age up to a comparatively late
period of his life.

Such a knowledge is always valuable to an intending purchaser.
Horses of eight or nine years old are still in their prime; but from want
of knowledge of the means of ascertaining the real age and from very
natural distrust of what the owner may tell them, the public are very shy
of buying such horses; and consequently they may generally be obtained
at prices below their real value.

CHAPTEE XV.
POSOLOGICAL TABLE FOR THE HOESE.

WITH THE ACTIOIf OJ THE MEDICINAL SUBSTAN"CES.
(From Moeton's Vbteeinaet Pharmacy.)

AGENT.

AcaciaB gumrui ....
Acid, aceticum. , . .

" arseniosum. .

" carbolic. . . .

" hydrochloric

hydrocy. dil.

nitricum

" sulphuric...

Aconite tinct

" extract. . .
Adeps ...

Aloes extract

Alumen

" ustum

Ammoniae hydroch

'♦ liquor..

•' liq. acet
♦' sesqui-
carb.
Aramoniaa spirit

arora.
Anthemides floras..

Antim. potass, tart.

ACTION.

INTERNALLY.

Demulcent.
Astringent
Tonic

j Lithontriptic. . )
I Tonic J

Sedative

Tonic

Sedative...
Do.

{Alterative . . . . )
Nauseant f
Purgative

Astringent

Deobstruent .

\ Stimulant .

} Antacid

Diaphoretic, .
Stimulant. . . ,

:;}

( Stimulant . ,
j Antacid. . .,

Tonic

( Nauseant |

I Diaphoretic . . )

EXTERNALLY.

^ Antiseptic }

I Rubefacient... \

Caustic

j Caustic and. .. )

( Antiseptic )

\ Antiseptic /

I Caustic )

Sedative .........

Caustic

Sedative

Emollient .
Traumatic ,

Astringent
Erodent. . .
Discutient.

Stimulant..

Discutient .

Irritant.

DOSE.

AdUb.
Grs. V. to X.

f. 3 ij. to 3 iv.

3 ss. to 3 i.
3 i. to 3 ij.
3 i. to 3 ij.

TTlX. to TllXX.

Gvs. XV. to XX,

3 i. to 3 ij.

3 iv. to 3 viij.
3 ij. to 3 iv.

3 i. to 3 ij.

f . I ss. to f. 3 i.

f. § iv. to f. z viij.
3 ij. to 3 iv.

f. I ss. to f. § i.
3 ij. to 3 iv.
3 ss. to 3 i.

324

VETERINAEY MEDICINE AND SURGERY.

AGENT.

Antim. terchlorid ,.

" tersulph

Argenti nitraa ....
Arnica

Arsenic iodide

^ther sulphuricus

Barii nitras

Belladon. extract. .

Borax

Calx chlorinata. . . .
Camphora

Cantharis

Capsici baccee. . . .

Carui semina

Cascar. cortex

Catechu ext

Chloroform

Colchicum

Collodion ,

Copaiba

Creasoton

Creta prepar

Croton semina ....

" oleum

" farina

Cupri ammo, sulph

" diacetas

" diniodidum..

' " sulphas .....

Digitalis

Ferri chlorid

" iodidum

" sulphas

Gallse

Gentianse rad

" tinctura.

Glycerin

Helleborus nig

Hydi'arg. am, chlor
♦♦ bichlorid

" chlorid. .

" biniodid .

" nitratis..
" oxydum .
♦• ox. citric

ACTION.

INTERNALLY.
Caustic

Stimulant

j Alterative )

(Tonic [

Antispasmodic . . .
j Alterative .... [
I Tonic )

Narcotic

Antiseptic

Narcotic

j Stimulant . . . . )
I Diuretic y

Carminative

Do.

Tonic

Astringent . . *. . .

Antesthetic

i Diuretic
Diaphoretic .
Laxative

Diuretic

j Antiseptic. • ■ • }

\ Tonic )

Antacid

Purgative

Do.

Tonic

Do.
Alterative. . . )

Tonic S

Astringent. . . . [

Tonic y

Narcotic

Diui'etic

Astringent

J Alterative. . . )

i Tonic y

] Astringent • • • }

} Tonic y

Astringent

Tonic

Do.
Nutrient

Alterative

j Alterative

( Cathartic

Alterative,, ...

EXTERNALLY.

Alterative , .
Caustic ....
Resolvent . .

Refrigerant

Sedative . . .
Detergent. ,
Antiseptic. .
Discutient. .

Vesicant. . . .

Rubefacient

Adhesive

j Caustic I

I Antiseptic. . . . y
Absorbent

Irritant

( Erodent }

\ Detergent .... y

Detergent

j Erodent )

I Excitant . — )

Styptic

Astringent

Emollient

Excitant

Detergent

Caustic

I Stimulant . . . . )
1 Detergent .... J
Detergent

Erodent

DOSE.

3 ij. to I ss,

I ss. to I i.
Gr. V. to gr. xx.
f. 3 iv. to f. 3 vi.

3 ss. to 3 i.

3 i. to 3 ij.

3 ij. to 3 iv.
3 i. to 3 ij.

Gr. V. to gr. x.

Gr. X. to gr. xx.

§ ss. to I i.
3 ij. to 3 iv.
3 i. to 3 ij.
! i. to § ij.

3 i. to 3 ij.

3 ss. to 3 i.

f . 3 ss. to f . 3 i.

3 ij- to I iv.
Gr. xij. to gr. xxiv.
Gtt. XX. to gtt. XXX.
Gr, XX. to gi\ xl.

3 i. to 3 ij.

3 i. to 3 ij.
Gr. X, to gr. xxx.
3i. to 3ij.
3 i. to 3 ij.

3 ss, to 3 i.

3 ij. to 3 iv.

3 ij. to 3 iv.
3 ij, to 3 iv.
f . 3 ss. to f . I i.
3 iv. to § vi.

Gr, V. to gr. x.
Gr. X. to gr. xx.

3 ss. to 3 ij.

3 i. to 3 iss.

P080LOGICAL TABLE FOR THE HORSE.

325

AGENT.

Hyoscyami ext

" tinct. eth

lodinium

Lini semina

" oleum

Magnesia

Magnesiae sulph

Matico

Morrliua oleum

Myrrha

Oleum laurini

" olivge

" palmae . .. .

" rapi

Opium )

Opii tinctura. .. )
Petroleum

Pimenta baccae

Pix abiotina

" liquida

* ' nigra

Plumbi acetas

" subacetas .
Potassa.

Potassae carbonas. .

•' chloras . . .

'* nitras

Potassii iodidum. . .

' ' sulphuret. .
Qulnse disulplias. . .

Resina

Sabina

Sapo

Secale comutum . .

Sodae carbonas . . . .

" chlorinat. liq.

" sulphas

" sulphit

Sodii chloridum.. , .

Spirit etheris nit. . .

" rectilicatus..
Strychnia

ACTION.

INTERNALLY.

( Narcotic

I Anodyne ....
Do.

5 Glandular )

I Excitant )

Demulcent

Laxative

Antacid

j Laxative )

( Diuretic (?)... )

Alterative

i Antiseptic )

I Tonic J

( Demulcent. . . . )
I Laxative J

\ Narcotic]

I Antispasmodic. .

Stimulant

j Stimulant . . . . }
I Tonic \

\ Sedative )

I Astringent. . . . )

I Antacid )

I Diuretic f

Stimulant ?

( Febrifuge ... |

{ Diuretic V

(Glandular . . . . [
j Excitant J

Diaphoretic

Tonic

Diuretic

j Antacid )

I Diuretic i

Parturient

( Antacid )

( Diuretic [

Antiseptic

Diuretic ¥

Antiseptic

( Tonic )

1 Alterative )

iAntispasmo'ic
'Diuretic. .....
Diaphoretic ..

( Stimulant )

I Antispasmo'ic j
] Stimulant to }
l motor nerves )

EXTERNALLY.

Sedative

( Glandular . . . . )
I Excitant )

Emollient

Styptic

Traumatic

Stimulant

Emollient

Do.
Emollient

Anodyne

Stimulant

Rubefacient

Do.
Do.

Sedative

Do.
Caustic

j Refrigerant. . . [

l Antiseptic \

\ Glandulai' [

l Excitant f

Detergent

Calef acient

Irritant

Stimulant

Antiseptic

Stimulant

Refrigerant ....

DOSE.

3 i. to 3 ij.

! i- to I ij.

Gr. V. to gr. x.

Ad lib.
O.ss. to O.i.
I ss. to § i.

Lb. ss. to lb. i.

O.ss. to. O.i'.
3 ij. to 3 iv.

O.i, to O.iss.

3 i. to 3 ij.
f . 3 ss. to f.. I ij.
§ ij. to 3 iv.

3 ij. to 3 iv.

3 i. to 3 ij.

3 ij. to 3 iv.
3 i. to 3 ij.
3 ij. to 3 iv.

3i. to 3 ss.

3 ss. to 3 i.
3 ss. to 3 i.
3 ss. to 3 i.

I ss. to 3 ij.

3 ij. to 3 iv.

f. 3 ss. to f. I ij.
Lb. ss. to ib. i.
§ij.to Siij.

I i. to 1 iv.

f . I i. to f. I ij.

f. I i. to f. I ij.
Gr. i. to gr. ilj.

326

VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY,

ACTION.

AGENT.

DOSE.

INTERNALLY.

EXTERNALLY.

Sulphur

j Laxative )

l Alterative . ... )

Detergent -

? i. to 5 iv.

Sulphuris iodidum.

Alterative

Do.

3 ss. to 3 i.

Terebinthinge vulg.
" oleum

Diuretic

Digestive

3 ss. to § i.

C Diuretic )

-j Antispasmo'ic V
( Carthartic. .. . )

( Irritant

( Digestive. . . .

( f. 3 ij. to f. 3 iv.
-( f . § iij . to f . § vi.
( O.ss. to O.i.

Veratrum album . .

( Nauseant

( Stimulant '

Irritant

Gr. XX. to gr. xxx.

Zinci acetas

Astringent

, ,

....

" carbonas ....

. • • .

Do.

....

" chloridum. . .

....

{ Caustic

1 Antiseptic . .

" oxydum

....

Astringent

....

" sulphas

( Astringent ...
} Tonic "

( Erodent

\ Astringent. . .

. :

3 i. to 3 ij.

Zingiberis radix

Carminative

....

3 i. to 3 iv.

" tmct. .

j Carminative . . |
I Antispasmo'ic f

f. 3 i. to f. I ij.

INDEX.

Abdomen, wounds of, 291

Abraded surfaces, 290

Abscess of joint, 20(i

Acne, 156, 169

Acupressure, 27

Age indicated by teeth, 305

Air-passages, inflammation of, 64

Albuminuria, 148

Amaurosis, 131

Anchylosis, 203

Angina, 60

Apoplexy, 110

pulmonary, 72
Appetite, 11

Arthritis, navicular, 242
Ascarides, 163
Ascaris lumbricoides, 100
Ascites, 267
Asthma. 77

Atrophy of the liver, 136
Azoturia, 148

Back, bandage for, 87
" Back-raking," 147
Balanitis, 147
Ball, capsule for, 17

correct way to hold, 15

giving of a. 14

method of holding the tongue while
giving a, 15

method of making, 16
Balling-iron, 16, 17
Bandage, for the back, 37

for the belly, 38

for the buttocks, 37

for the elbow, 36

for eye, 35

for the forehead, 34

for the foreleg above the knee, 38

for the hindleg above the hock, 38

for jaw, 35

for the leg, 34

for neck, 35

for the rump, 37

for shoulder, 36

for strangles. 263

for throat, 35

Bandage for withers, 36

Bandages, 34

Bathing, cold-water, of the legs, 14

Bed, 12

"Bellones,"80

Belly, bandage for, 38

swollen, 90
Bishoping, 314

Bladder, inflammation of, 143
Blankets, 10
Bleeding, 24
Blind staggers, 103
Blisters, 24
Blood spavin, 183
Bog-spavin, 180, 181
Bone, cannon, 324

navicular, 224

pastern, 224

pedal, 224
Bone-spavin, 175, 176, 178
Bot-fly depositing its eggs, 99
Bots, 98
Box, a loose, 9
Brain, diseases of, 103
Brain fever, 103
"Break-down,"- 317
Broken wind, 77
Bronchitis, 64
Brushing, 208
Bums, 294
Buttocks, bandage for, 37

Calculi, praeputial, 48

Calking, 251

Cancer of the liver, 137

Canker, 240

Cannon bone, 224
j Capped elbow, 189
1 hock, 186, 188

j knee, 313 _

I Capsule, gelatine, for veterinary use, 17
! Carbuncle of the coronary band, 301
j Cartilages, ossified, 249
\ Casting, 40

Cataract, 129
spurious, 131

Catarrhal fever, 253

328

INDEX.

Cafarra, nasal, 51

chronic nasal, 53
Catheters, 47
Cerebral hemorrhage, 110
Cerebro-spinal meningitis, 117
Charbon, 276
Chorea, 111

Circularity of teeth, 320
Cirrhosis of the liver, 136
Clap, external, 147
Clasps for sand-crack, 234
Cold, common, 51

in the chest, 64
Colic, flatulent, 90

spasmodic, 88
Colt distemper, 260
Coma, 103
Congestion, of the liver, 135

of the lungs, 72
Conjunctivitis, 124 .
Constipation, '87
Contused wounds, 289
Corns, 228

Coronary band, carbuncle of, 301
Coronet, 224

fistula of, 230
Coryza, 51
Cough, chronic, 57
Cracked heels, 154
Cradle to prevent biting a vround, 24
Cribbing, effect upon the teeth, 322
Crowns of teeth, shape in old age, 318
Curb, 185, 186, Plate II
Cutting, 208
Cystitis, 143

Deodorizers, 21

Dermatodectes equi, 161

Diabetes, 144

Diarrhoea, 94

Digestive organs, diseases of, 83

Diseases, of the feet, 223

of the legs, 175

of the liver, 135

of the skin, 154

of the urinary organs, 141
Disinfectants, 21
Distempei-, colt, 260

horse, 253
Diuresis, 144

Doses, table of, for the horse, 323
Drench, 17

method of giving, 19

method of holding the head, 18
Drenching-horn, 18
Dropping, 211
Dropsy, 267
Dysuria, 146

Eczema, 165

chronic, 172

pustulosum, 167
Elbow, bandage for, 36

capped, 189

Elbow, lameness 210
Elbow-joint, posterior view, 211
Electuaries. 24
Elephantiasis, 220
Encephalitis, 103
Enteritis, 91
Epilepsy, 120
Epizootic catarrh, 253
Equina, 269
Equine lymph, 168
Erysipelas, 273
Erythema, 158
Eye, bandage for, 35

foreign bodies in, 134

pink, 253

worm in the, 134
Eyelids, laceration of, 133

False quarter, 235, 236
Fang-hole, 314
Farcy, 269
" Farcy-buds," 272
" Farcy-pipes," 273
Feeders, delicate, 11
Fetlock-joint, sprain of, 214
Feet, diseases of, 223

fever in, 245, Plate IV.

inflammation of, 245
Fever, brain, 103

catarrhal, 253

in the feet, 245, Plate IV.

mud, 158

putrid, 117

rheumatic, 266

scarlet, 278

spotted, 117

thermal, 122
Firing, 29

Fistula of the coronet, 230
Fistulse, 299
Fistulous withers, 303
Fits, 120

Flatulent colic, 90
Fleams, for blood-letting, 25
Fomentations, 12
Fomenting a wounded leg, 13
Foot, bottom of, 224

bottom of, after the insensitive sole
has been removed, 225

external appearance of, 223

ground surface of, 223

illustrated with pastern, 224

laminas of, 224

prick of, 226

sensitive laminje, 225
Foreign bodies in the eye, 134
Forefoot, holding up, 39
Forehead, bandage tor. 34
Foreleg, bandage for, 38
Founder fever, 245

grain, 84
Frog, 224

fissure of, 224

punctures of. 227

sensitive, 324

INDEX.

329

Frost-bite, 293

Fuauel for injections, 21

Gait, straddlinn^, of nephritis, 142
Galls, from saddle and harueas, 804
Gamgee's funnel fur injections, 81

method of giving a drench, 18
Gastric impaction, 84
Gastrophilius Equi, 98
Giddiness, 108
Glanders, 269
Glass eye, 131
Glaucoma, 133
Gleet, nasal, 53
Gonorrhoea of the pr. puce, 147
Gorged stomach, 84
Grain founder, 84
"Grapes," 109
Grease, 167

illustrations, 168

parasite of, 169

symptoms and treatment, 171
Grinders, 305
Gripas, 88
Grunting, 82
Gutta Serena, 131

Hand-rubbing, 12

of the skin, 14
Haw, 123

protrusion of, over the eye, in tetanus,
113
Hcematuria, enzo^^tic, 148
Heaves, 77

Heel, windgall of, Plate III.
Heels, 224

cracked, 154

opening the, 232
Hemorrhage, cerebral, 110
Hepatitis, 136
Herpes circlnatus, 103
Highblowiag, 81
Hock, bandage for the leg above, 38

capped, 186, 187, 188

spring, 187
Hock- joint, 180
Hoof, 224

divided below the coronet, 225
Hor^e, on his knees, 44

perological table for, 323

rearing with Rarey's strap on, 45

skeleton, Plate I.

treatment of, after he is down, 46

distemper, 253
Humid tetter, 168
Hydrophobia, 117
Hydrothorax, 267
Hypertrophy of the liver, 130

Icterus, 138

Impaction of the stomach, 84
Incisors, 305
Indigestion, 84

Inflammation, of the air-passages, 64
of the bladder, 143

Inflammation, of the conjunctiva, 124

of the feet, 245

of the intestines, 91

of the kidneys, 141

of the liver, 136

of the lungs, 08

of the penis and sheath, 147

of the pleura, 74

of the stomach, 86
Inflammatory oedema, 218
Influenza, 253

Infundibulum of the teeth, 310
Injection, nasal, Key's tube for, 20
Injections, 20
Interfering, 208

Intestmes, over-excitation of, by purga-
tives, 95

inflammation of, 91
Ischuria, 146
Itch, 100
Itch-ihite, 161

Jaundice, 138
Jaw, bandage for, 35
Joint, open, 203

stiff, 202

wound of, 203
"Jugged," 271

Kidneys, inflammation of, 141

Knee, views of, 183

Kuee joint, alter chronic rheumatism, 265

in health, 265
Knees, broken, 188
Knot, beef, 31

surgical, 31
" Knuckling over," 210

Lacerated wounds, 290
Laceration of the eyelids, 133
Lachrymal passnges, diseases of, 133
Laminai, of the foot, 224

sensitive, of the foot, 225
Lamiuitis, 245, Plate IV.
Lampas, 83
Laryngitis, 60
Leg, bandage for, 34

fore, inner side view of healthy, 195

wounded, fomenting, 13
Legs, cold-water bathing of, 14

diseases and injuries of, 175

hand-rubbing of, 12

oedema of, 217

swelled, 217
Lichen, 16?

Ligament, suspensory, sprain of, 216
Liver, atrophy of, 130

cancer of, 137

cirrhosis of, 130

congestion of, 135

diseases of, 135

hypertrophy of, 130

inflammation of, 136

organic disease of, 130

softening of, 137

330

INDEX.

Liver, tubercle of, 137
Lockjaw, 113
Loose box, 9
LuDg fever, 68
LuDgs, congestion of, 73
inflammation of, 68
Lymphangitis, 218, 275

Mad staggers. 103
MaUeuders, 173, 174
Mange, IGO
Mangers, 13
Mark, the, yiO

at seven years, 311

at eight and nine years, 312

double at seven years, 314

real and simulated, 314

the secondary, 314
Mashes, 11

bran, 13 ,

bread, 13

linseed, 13
Mayhew's test for sidebones, 350
Megrims, 108

symptoms and treatroent, 109
Membrana nictitans, 133
Meningitis, cerebro-spinal, 117
Metallic suture wire, 289
Method of finding corns, 328
Molars, 305
Moon-blindness, 137
Mouth, parrot, 313
Mud fever, 158

Natl, picking up, 336
Navicular bone, 234

disease, 242
Neck, bandage for, 35
Needle, for making sutures, 30

method of holding in making sutures,
30
Nephritis, 141

straddling gait of, 143
Nervous system, diseases of, 103
Nettle rash. 159
Nose, chronic discharge from, 53

mode of making application to, 20
Nose-bag, for steaming, 23
Nursing, 9

CEdkma, 207

inflammatory, 218

of the legs, 217
Open joint, 203
Opening the heels. 3R3
Ophthalmia, periodic, 127

simple, 124

specific, 127
Ossific diathesis, 176
Ossified cartilages, 249
Over reach, 251
Oxyuris vermicularis, 101
Ozena, 53

Palst, 115

Paralysis, 115

Paraphimosis, 153

Paraplegia, 115

Parrot mouth, 313

Pastern, illustrated, 334

Pedal bone. 234

Penis, inflammation of, 147

Peritonitis, 91

Pharyngitis, GO

Phimosis, 151

Phrenitis, 103

Picking up a nail, 226

Process for clohing sandcrack, 234

Pink eye, 253

Plague, cold, 117

Pleura, inflammation of, 74

Pleurisy, 74

Pleuiitis, 74

Pleuro-pneumonia, 69

Pneumonia, 68

Pointing, as a symptom, 343

Poisoned wounds, 296

Pole-evil, 301

Polyuria, 144

Posological table for the horse, 333

Poultices, 23

Powders, 23

Prepuce, gonorihoea of, 147

Prick of the foot, 326

Prurigo, 163

sign of, 162
Pruritus, 163
Psoriasis, 173
Pulmonary apoplexy, 73
Punch, for closing sandcrack, 234
Punctured wountis, 291
Punctures of the frog and sole, 227
Purgatives, over-excitation of the intes-
tines by, 95
Purpura. 276
Putrid fever. 117
Pyropuncture, 29

Q0AKTER, false, 2S5, 236
Quarters, 324
Quarter- crack, 232, 333
Quitter, 230

Rabies, 117

Rarey's strap. No. 1, 41

in position, 42

No. 3, 4.S
Rat-tail B, 107

Respiratory orgat s. disease of, 51
Retention of uriue, 14()
Rey's tube, for applications to the nose, 20
Rheumatism, 265

fever. 266

knee-joint after, 265
Ring-bones. 200

illustrated, :J01
Ringworm, 163
Roaring, 80

INDEX.

331

Rump, bandage for, 37
Rupture of the stomach, 86

Sallenders, 173, 174
Sandcracks, 232

clasps for closing, 234

pincers for closing, 234

punch for closing, 234
Sarcopbes hippopodus, 169
Scabies, 160
Scalds, 294
Scarlatina, 278
Scouring, 94
Scratches, 154
Seedy toe, 237
Sensitive bars, 224
Seton, in position, 29
Seton-needles, 28
Setons, 28
Sheath, cleaning of, 14

inflammation of, 147
Shoulder, bandage for, 36
Shoulder-slip, 209
Side bones, 249

Mayhew'a test for, 250
Side-line, 39

Sinews, back, sprain of, 215
Sitfasts, 15(j, 157, 158
Skeleton of the horse, Plate I.
Skin, disease of, 154

hand-rubbing of, 14
Sleepy staggers, 103
Slings, 32

illustrated, 33
Slope of the teeth, 319

at two and six years, 319
Smell, sense of, in sick horses, 11
Softening of the liver, 137
Sole, punctures of, 227
Sore shins, 199
Sore throat, (iO

sequelas of, 63
Spasmodic colic, 88
Spavin, 175
Spavin, Plate II.

blood, 182

bog, 180, 181

symptoms. 177
Speedy-cut, 208
Splint, 193, 194

symptoms, 196

treatment, 198
Spotted fever, 117, 276
Sprain of the back sinews, 215

of the fetlock joint, 214

of the flexor tendons, 215

of the suspensory ligament, 216
Spring hock, 187
Staggers, 103

symptoms, 104

treatment, 106
Staling, profuse, 144
Steaming, 22
Stiff joint, 202
StiOe-joint lameness illustrated, 213, 214

Stocking, 217
Stomach, gorged, 84

impaction of, 84

intlammation of, 86

rupture of, 86

staggers, 103
Strangles, 260, 261

bandage for, 263
Strangury, 146
Stringhalt, 111
Sunstroke, 122
Superpurgation, 95
Suppression of urine, 146
Surfeit, 159, 162

Suspensory ligament, sprain of, 216
Suture, long and short stitch, 31

twisted, 31
Sutures, 29
Swelled legs, 217
Swollen belly, 90
Symbiotes equi, 170

Tables of teeth, 315

posological, of the horse, S23
Tail, pruritus of, 163
Tendons, flexor, tprain of, 215
Tetanus, 112
Teeth, indicators of age, 305

of a foal, 307

of two and three years, 308

of four and five years, 309

permanent, 308

changes in the crown, 315

collateral circumstances to be taken
into consideration in judging of age
by, 321

length of, 318

loss of circularity, 320

shape of crowns in old age, 318

shape of, in extreme old age, 319

slope of, 319

slope of, at two and six years, 319

slope of, at twelve and eighteen years,
320

triangularity of, 316

triangularity at ten, eleven, and twelve
years, 317

triangularity at sixteen, twenty, and
twenty-four years, 3 1 8
Thermal fever, 122
Thick wind. 79
ThoLOugh pin, 186, 191

Truss for, 193
Throat, bandage for, 35
Throwing, 40
Thrush, 238
Tinea tonsurans, 163
Toe, 224

seedy, 237
Toe-crack, 232, 233
Tongue, method of holding, in giving a

ball, 15
Tooth, original form of, 316

showing mark and fang-hole, 315
Tread, 251

332

INDEX

Treatment of the horse after he is down,

46
Triangularity of the teeth, 316
Tricocephalus dispar, 10 i
Trismus, 112
Trocau and canula, 269
Truss for thorough-pin, 193
Tubercle of the liver, 137
Tumors, slight, 150
Tusks, 321

at different ages, 323
Twitch, mode of use, 39
Twitchups, 38
Tympanites, 90

Ulcrrs, 299
Urethra, the male, 48
Urinary organs, diseases of, 141
Urine, bloody, 151

nitrogenous, 148

retention ot, 14G
Urticaria, 159

Varix, 180
Vertigo, 108

Warblks, 156
Warts, 105
Water, fresh, 10
Weed, 218
Whistling. 81
Wind, broken, 77

thick, 79
Windgall, of the heel, Plate III.
Windgalls, 207

internal appearance, Plato III.
Withers, bandage for, 30

fistulous, 303
Worm in the eye, 184
Worms, 100
Wound, cradle to prevent biting, 24

contused. 284, 289

flesh, 283

incised, 283

lacerated. 283. 20(1

of the abdomen. 291

poisoned, 296

punctured, 291

special treatment for incised, 288

Yklloays, the, 138

■4

y^U

/£.

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Cummings School of Veterinary IVIeclicine at
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