LIVER FLUKE
LIVER FLUKE
A few liver flukes in an animal causes little trouble, as the injury is largely mechanical anyway. No peculiar symptoms are conspicuous when only a few flukes are present. The greatest damage is done when hundreds of flukes develop in a single individual. In these cases the flow of the bike is checked. As result the health becomes impaired and the usual penalties of malnutrition follow. Swelling of the jaws and diarrhœa are often noticed in connection with the disease.
When the host is badly infected with the flukes and in a badly run-down condition the trouble is always serious, and medicinal treatment is of little real value. Tonics and good food may be given to help along—but death usually follows. Salt is helpful as the flukes are sensitive to it. If an animal that has succumbed to the disease be examined, the liver will be observed to be fairly rotten as a result of the inroads of the parasites.
Treatment is in line of prevention only. Clean, pure fresh water, free of the eggs or the parasites, is necessary if the trouble is to be eradicated. The old ponds, ordinarily filled with stagnant water, should be drained. They harbor many bad parasites, and their harm is far beyond their value. When water for sheep and cattle is taken from pure streams or wells the trouble from liver flukes and other parasites is reduced to a minimum.
—This disease, very frequently called tetanus, is an infectious disease in which the body muscles are spasmodically contracted or stiffened. The muscles that move the jaw are frequently affected and the animal is unable to open the mouth. Because of this condition the disease is commonly known as lockjaw.
The spread of the disease does not occur through healthy animals coming in contact with animals having tetanus, but by inoculation. The germ of tetanus is present in the soil, manure and dust. It enters the body by way of wounds, especially punctured and bruised wounds. The injury may result from stepping on a nail, and the germs are planted in the deeper structures of the foot. Such a wound usually has poor drainage, the horn of the hoof closing the mouth or opening. Here the germs grow and produce a poisonous toxin that is said to be the most powerful produced by any bacteria. This toxin acts on the nerve centers of the brain and spinal cord, causing extensive spasmodic contraction of the body muscles.
Tetanus sometimes occurs in the absence of any noticeable wound. It may be in such cases that the seat of the infection is a slight abrasion of the skin, or the lining membranes of the respiratory and digestive tracts. The tetanus bacillus is aslender, spore-producing bacterium. The spore is located at one end of the rod in the form of a round head, that gives the organism a pin shape, hence the name of pin bacillus. It is very resistant to outside conditions and the action of the chemical disinfectants. It is because of its ability to resist the action of disinfectants and the fact that it develops best when protected or covered by the tissues and wound secretions, that this disease so often follows ordinary wound treatment.
LOCKJAWNote the rigid, tense position of the muscles.
LOCKJAW
Note the rigid, tense position of the muscles.
From a few days to several weeks may lapse from the time of infection with the germs until the development of the stiffness and spasms. Sometimes the wound by which the organism has entered the tissues has healed before the symptoms of tetanus are manifested. In case the symptoms develop a few days after the inoculation the diseaseis severe or acute in form, and less violent or subacute if the symptoms are manifested after the second week. The above statement does not hold true in all cases, but it may be considered true in a general way.
Of the domestic animals the horse is the most commonly affected. The symptoms shown by this animal are very characteristic. Any person that has had the opportunity to see and examine a horse suffering from tetanus should have no trouble in recognizing the disease in other animals.
is the spasmodic contraction of the muscles. This may vary in the different individuals, depending on the susceptibility of the animal and the quantity of poisonous toxin present in the system. There is at first a slight stiffness of the muscles of the back, neck, head, and limbs, and the animal is more nervous than common. A noise in the stable or a slap with the hand may increase the stiffness and contractions temporarily. The contracted condition of the muscles of the eye, are, perhaps, the most noticeable early in the disease. These muscles pull the eyeball backwards, the fatty cushion is pressed on and the third eyelid protrudes, covering at times from one-third to two-thirds of the front part of the eye. In the severe form of the disease the muscles feel hard, especially those of the back and neck, and the animal moves with difficulty. In addition to the muscular symptoms, the respiration and pulse beats are quickened and the body temperature higher than normal. The evidence of suffering from the contracted condition of the muscles is very marked, and, unless supported in some way, the animal may fall to the floor. If the symptoms develop a few days after infection, the animalusually dies. The acute form is very fatal, but in the mild or subacute form the chance for making a recovery is good.
It may be largely prevented by the careful disinfection of wounds, and the use of anti-tetanic serum. In most localities the proper treatment of the wound is a sufficient preventive measure, but in localities and stables where the disease is common the anti-tetanic serum should be used. Ordinary cleansing of a wound, as practiced by most stockmen, is not sufficient to destroy the bacillus of tetanus. The wound must be carefully cleaned, disinfected and prepared for healing. This should be kept in mind when treating a wound, and instead of using an agent that we know little about, we should secure reliable information regarding the different commercial disinfectants and methods of caring for wounds. That class known as tar disinfectants is most commonly used. The better grade belonging to this class should be used.
If anti-tetanic serum is used, it should be injected as soon after the injury has occurred as possible. The injection is made hypodermically, usually beneath the skin on the side of the neck. Large doses of anti-tetanic serum given after the symptoms have developed may assist recovery. However, in the severe form of the disease this treatment is uncertain.
When the animal comes down with the disease, it should be made as comfortable as possible. The quarters should be roomy, quiet, clean, and well ventilated. It is advisable to support the horse with a sling unless the animal is worried or made nervous by it. This prevents his becoming tired and falling down. We should give the animal the bestof care in the way of regulating the diet, etc., but should avoid annoying it by our attention. Medicinal treatment is of little benefit and should be given a secondary place. In fact, dosing the animal with medicine, especially if large doses are given, may do more harm than good in the treatment of this disease.
—The word loco is a Spanish word, and means crazy. Loco disease is a disease of the brain and nervous system, especially of horses and cattle, but may also affect other animals. It results from eating any one of a number of poisonous plants called loco which grow upon the dry, sandy prairies of some parts of the Western United States.
In winter and early spring, when there is little or no grass, some animals acquire an appetite for this plant, and soon refuse all other kinds of food. When addicted to the weed an animal loses flesh rapidly, the eyesight becomes affected—often it has no knowledge of distance—and frequently when made to step over a board or rail will jump over it as though it were several feet high. Later, in the course of the disease, the brain becomes more affected and the animal acts more or less crazy, at times quite violent, at others depressed and dull.
Should the animal live through the first attack it may linger for months or even years, but it usually dies as a result of the attack. Frequently some peculiar “foolish” habit follows the animals through life. Some have a nervous fit when excited or warmed up, others will not lead and some you cannot drive at all. There is no cure for the trouble. All that can be done is to prevent the habit from being formed or by removing the animalfrom temptation and furnishing wholesome, nutritious food.
—SeeActinomycosis.
—A filling of the lungs with blood. This is very common with horses in winter and is most frequently due to a chill. Animals that have been put to heavy work, or are in a weakened condition, are frequently susceptible if left standing in a draft while still warm. Sluggishness is noticed, first followed by trembling at the flank, heavy breathing; the pulse will be noted as quick, but weak; a gurgling sound will be noted if the ear is placed against the chest. The best treatment is such as gives quick relief. If at work, place the horse at rest at once in the stable and cover with blanket. Have plenty of fresh air admitted, but do not allow a draft to blow over the patient. Assist circulation as much as possible by rubbing of the legs and apply cold pad to the chest. A mustard plaster applied over the chest is very good. A good drench consists of alcohol in 2 ounce doses, well diluted in water; at the same time another drench consisting of 4 tablespoonfuls of sweet spirits of niter and 2 tablespoonfuls of laudanum, mixed with a pint of water, is also very good. If the conditions indicate that the lungs are full of blood, add 10 drops of Fleming’s tincture of aconite to the drench. The drenches may be given two or three hours apart until relief comes, at which time quiet is advised, although a little gentle walking for exercise is advisable.
From this time on treat the animal as a patient, giving easily digested foods. A tonic consisting of ground gentian root and nitrate of potash, half and half, is excellent. Give a teaspoonful of this in the feed three times a day.
—SeeInflammation of the Lungs.
—It has been proven in years gone by that the common spirits of turpentine, when mixed with salt in proportions of a gill of turpentine to four quarts of common fine salt and placed in a covered box so constructed that sheep and calves can get their head in and eat the salt (yet the salt be protected from the weather), will practically prevent an infection. Some have advised the mixing of a half pint of sublimed sulphur with the salt and turpentine. There can be no objection to the sulphur when added in the proportions named. This remedy is not a cure but a preventive. In fact there is no cure, as these worms are in the bronchial tubes and lungs, where no worm destroyer can reach them directly. But when the lamb or calf daily partakes of even a few drops of turpentine, the whole system becomes, to an extent, infected with the turpentine, and as the young worms come into existence, their home in the lungs becomes a very unhealthy home for them and they fail to mature. In some cases mature worms have been removed by injecting a mixture of turpentine, chloroform and olive oil into the windpipe, using about a teaspoonful of this mixture. Its effect is to stupefy the worms that it touches, and they may be coughed out by the suffering lamb or calf. The fumes of burning sulphur has also been advised by some veterinarians. But both remedies are as liable to kill as cure, and are by no means always successful. The farmer’s business should be to prevent, not cure, diseases of this class; therefore prepare the salt box.
LYMPHANGITISThis kind of inflammation is usually seen in the hind legs. It is most frequent in heavy draft horses, or in coarse plethoric individuals. It occurs most frequently after a short period of idleness.
LYMPHANGITIS
This kind of inflammation is usually seen in the hind legs. It is most frequent in heavy draft horses, or in coarse plethoric individuals. It occurs most frequently after a short period of idleness.
—An inflammation of thelymphatics, usually of the hind legs. Hence the name “big legs.” It is the result of too rich feeding, and too little work in manycases on the one hand, or of overwork and insufficient food on the other. Lymphangitis often follows other diseases like distemper, influenza, or pneumonia, in which cases the system is weakened and the lymphatics in abnormal condition. It shows itself after a short period of idleness and rest. It usually begins with a chill and a rise of temperature, which may be as much as 105 degrees, depending on the intensity of the attack. One or both hind legs may show swelling and be so stiff and sore after standing during the night as to be moved only with difficulty when the horse is taken out of the stable in the morning. The horse in moving seems able to bear little or no weight on the affected leg. At the same time, the pulse is full and throbby, respiration is fast, the bowels are constipated and the appetite is lost.
In some cases the legs swell to an enormous size. If the inflammation is not relieved in a few days, the glands get badly diseased and blood poison may result. The disease, however, if taken in time, is easily treated. If it is caused by overfeeding, change this; give more exercise. When the disease is first noticed, give the horse 4 tablespoonfuls of aloes, 4 tablespoonfuls of carbonate of soda and 4 tablespoonfuls of ginger. These should be dissolved in a half pint of boiling water, then mixed with a half pint of cold water, and then given as a drench. If the pulse is fast, it may be made easier and slower by giving 20 to 30 drops of tincture of aconite, every couple of hours. A couple of tablespoonfuls of nitrate of potash in the drinking water three times a day will increase the urine. This is desirable to do in this disease. The leg should be bathed for at least a half an hour and then dried and a wash consisting of 2 tablespoonfuls of acetateof lead, 8 tablespoonfuls of tincture of opium, and a quart of water should be applied to the legs. This should be rubbed in well with the hand every hour. In from 20 to 30 hours, a great change for the better will be noticed the inflammation will have been reduced; the pain will have disappeared and the bowels will be loose and active.
From now on give general exercise at frequent periods, during the day. In cases caused by overwork or too little food or those following debilitating diseases, like influenza or distemper, the treatment should be more stimulating; therefore, nutritive foods and tonics are best. Good hay and oats and other feed of a laxative nature should be furnished.
A preparation, consisting of 4 tablespoonfuls, each, of tincture chloride of iron, tincture of gentian, and ginger in a pint of water three times a day will be found both stimulating and nourishing. If the disease has progressed so far that the legs break and show that matter is formed, wash them with warm water and follow with acetate of lead, sulphate of iron and carbolic acid. Use 2 tablespoonfuls of each in a quart of water and apply twice each day. If the swelling hangs on use Fowler’s solution of arsenic, 4 tablespoonfuls to a dose in a bran mash once a day. Continue this for four or five weeks. A salve made of 2 teaspoonfuls of iodide and 8 tablespoonfuls of vaseline should also be rubbed on the leg twice a week.
—SeeHydrophobia.
—The grubs of the ordinary flesh-flies so common about stables and houses. The adult fly deposits the minute larvæ in fresh meat, in wounds, and frequently in dirty wool. These become the maggots so well known about the farm.The distress caused by these when present in a wound is considerable, and they endanger life.
The best treatment is in line of cleanliness. Keep old wounds clean by means of antiseptic washes and tag the sheep that no filth and dirt may accumulate. If for any reason maggots are found, open the infected part and remove, if possible, both the maggots and sloughed tissue. Old sores or wounds, if they will not lend themselves to complete removal of the maggots, should be treated with a solution of carbolic acid and water. On some, turpentine can be used. Chloroform may be sprayed on, or injected into the wound with almost instant results. After the maggots are destroyed follow up the treatment with a good disinfectant until the wound has healed.
—An eruption of the skin above the feet in horses. The disease at first is very much like eczema. In time the watery fluid dries up and the sore parts become covered with hard crusts and scabs. The sore spots should be washed with some good disinfectant and repeated frequently enough to destroy the infection. A moderate purge is advisable. See that only wholesome food is provided.
—Inflammation of the mammary gland or udder. The disease is frequently called caked bag and garget. In the last named, the milk secretion is altered and appears as a thick or a stringy fluid. Heavy milkers are most commonly affected. The udder becomes swollen, hot and somewhat tender just before calving. The swelling may extend forward along the belly. It often gets so severe as to require treatment. It is in this sense physiological. In a few days after calving, as a rule, the swelling disappears and the normalcondition is regained more quickly if the calf is allowed to suck the cow. In the first stages bloody milk is secreted and often pus is formed in one quarter or more of the udder. The udder should be carefully milked, cleaned, and, if the milk ducts are closed, it may be necessary to use a milk tube. This should be used cautiously so as not to injure the tissue of the udder and should be perfectly clean before inserting, otherwise serious inflammation may result. In bathing, use hot water for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, after which rub dry and apply an ointment made by dissolving 3 tablespoonfuls of gum camphor and 4 tablespoonfuls of fluid extract of belladonna to a pint of clean, fresh lard. This ointment should be applied three times a day.
A more serious form of the disease is known as contagious mammitis, and is due to invasion of the gland by bacteria. In cases of this kind the inflammation is more extensive and the disorder calls for more careful treatment. Since the milk contains bad bacteria, it is necessary to destroy them so as to prevent spreading of the disease. The milker should have clean hands and should wash them in a disinfecting solution before milking another cow. The milk tube may be necessary in withdrawing the milk. After the milk has been removed from the udder, inject a solution of peroxide of hydrogen or dioxygen or a solution of carbolic acid, 1 part to 50 parts of boiled water. After the solution has acted for a few minutes, it should be milked out. The external treatment for contagious mammitis should be similar to that of ordinary mammitis.
—SeeScab in Cattle.
—It is a remarkable fact that this disease occurs most commonly in cows whichcalved easily. This is explained by the fact that in such cases the os uteri remains relaxed for a greater length of time than it does in cases of difficult parturition. Milk fever generally occurs in cows which are heavy milkers, and great eaters. Keeping the animals in permanent stables, and feeding large quantities of rich food while they are giving no milk are predisposing causes.
The disease makes its appearance usually in from 24 to 48 hours after parturition. It seldom occurs after the third day, and some authors state that it has never been recognized before the starting of the milk secretion. The most salient symptoms to the average layman would, perhaps, be the anxious expression of the animal, bellowing and mounting into the manger. Later they become very weak, stagger and fall, and are unable to rise. The members are usually extended in a rigid position. A rattling or whistling noise is heard in case the larynx is paralyzed. The feet, ears and horns feel cold to the touch. When a case is going to recover we see improvement as early as the second or third day. Recovery is usually complete at the end of from two to five days.
Milk fever is one of the cases where the old maxim, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, is doubly applicable. If proper precautions were taken a large number of cases could be prevented. Give the pregnant animals daily exercise, and decrease their allowance of food.
—Make the cow comfortable. Now give her a small dose of Epsom salts from one-half to one pound, depending on her size. This should be given as a drench. Animals afflicted with this ailment swallow with difficulty. Use care that the drench does not get into the lungs.Perhaps the most satisfactory medical treatment is to use what is known as the Schmidt treatment. This is nothing more than injecting into the udder a solution made by dissolving in one quart of clean boiled water 3 teaspoonfuls of iodide of potash, after stripping all milk from the udder. A very satisfactory way is to get a rubber tube, attach it to a common milking tube which is placed into the teats in turn and pour the solution into the tube by means of a funnel. By massaging the udder the solution can be worked into each quarter in a short time without difficulty.
In case iodide of potash is not available, inject air into the udder after drawing out the milk. I have known of many cases where air has been forced into the udder by means of a bicycle pump, and the animal recovered in a very short time. If the disease does not respond to the treatment with readiness, repeat in a few hours, say, anywhere from five to ten hours after. Cold water or ice on the head is advisable. The use of stimulants is also recommended. Whiskey can be given in doses of 10 to 15 tablespoonfuls and jamaica ginger 6 to 8 tablespoonfuls. Milk the cow frequently and massage the udder, bathing in hot water.
After the cow is on the way to recovery, withhold milk-stimulating foods for a few days and give some tonic like gentian and nux vomica, half and half, 2 or 3 tablespoonfuls two or three times a day.
—SeeAzoturia.
—When a cold or simple catarrh is neglected it may run into a chronic condition giving rise to nasal gleet. A thin, bluish discharge comes from the nose; and the membranes of the nostrils, instead of being moist and pink incolor, take on a leaden hue. The coat at the same time shows unthriftiness. In such cases the face and head may swell because the accumulated materials fail to pass out. When these bunches are tapped with the fingers, a dull sound is heard. Treatment consists of isolating the animals and giving them good care, nutritious food and well-ventilated quarters. A bucket, filled with boiling water, in which a half cup of turpentine is placed, and held under the nose to steam the nostrils and face, is excellent. Any sort of blanketing that will hold the steam about the head is very good to have at hand at the time. For internal treatment give a teaspoonful of sulphate of copper three times daily in a small bran mash; following this drop the copper sulphate and give 2 tablespoonfuls of Fowler’s solution of arnica twice a day in the mash. Should the bulges on the face become large, it will be necessary to open them. Often a part of the bone requires sawing out to get effective results. In these severe cases it is best to have your veterinarian make the operation.
—A disease of the navicular bone and the structures surrounding it. It is called “coffin joint lameness.” This bone is situated at the back and inferior part of the coffin joint, and acts as a pulley over which the flexor tendon of the foot passes. Horses with upright pasterns are most liable to it, as more weight is thrown on this joint. Those shod with calkins on their shoes, which prevent the frog from coming in contact with the ground, therefore causing a shock to this joint, are also very liable to it. Some horses have hereditary tendency to this disease. Nails penetrating too deep through the sole, or anything that will cause inflammation of this joint,is likely to produce navicular disease. The most prolific cause is bad shoeing. By degrees the inflammation in a chronic form extends to other parts, causing a shrinking of the soft parts, resulting in contraction of the foot.
The lameness may appear suddenly and perhaps immediately after the horse has been shod, and is then usually thought to be the fault of nailing on the shoe. It is likely in this case that the smith has pared the sole and frog too thin, and that the part has suffered from a bruise by the horse stepping on something hard. After a rest it may disappear, to return after the next drive. Sometimes the disease is of very slow progress in one or both fore feet. The first thing that is noticed is that the animal points its toe, and if both are affected, first one, then the other. The animal may not be lame, but it does not step out so well as it used to, and by degrees the part gets more tender, until the animal begins to go lame, and the lameness gradually gets worse. There is a form of this lameness where the animal shows stiffness and lameness when first taken out of the stable, but, after being driven for a short distance, it passes off, and after it stands for awhile it will start off lame again. If this disease lasts for some time the muscles of the chest and shoulders seem stiff and may shrink. This has been called “chest founder” by horsemen. This is brought about by the soreness of the feet. The horse is afraid to step out, giving it the appearance of being stiff; the muscles of the chest and shoulders will shrink from want of proper action, caused by the feet being sore. If there is heat and tenderness in the hollow of the heel or a redness of the sole, and an absence of any other disease of the foot or leg, we may consider withalmost a certainty that it is a case of navicular or coffin joint lameness. The result is contraction of the foot.
Take off the shoes, so that the frog will rest on the ground, then poultice the feet with bran, made up with cold water if it is a recent case, but if it is of some months’ standing hot water is better than cold; put the poultices into bags made a little larger than the foot; put about two inches deep of the bran mash into the bag, then put the foot in and fill in all around as high as the fetlock, and tie the bag above the fetlock and around the ankle to keep it well on the foot. Wet this several times a day and change it once daily. Continue this for two weeks, and see that it is properly done; if not, it will be of no service. Then blister the coronet with cantharides 2 teaspoonfuls and lard 4 tablespoonfuls. Repeat in three weeks, and give the animal a long rest.
—SeeBot Flies.
—Nodules resembling those of tuberculosis found in the intestines of sheep, are due to the presence of parasitic worms. Profuse diarrhœa and a pronounced anemic condition prevail. A post mortem examination of the intestines discloses the presence of numerous nodules in the intestinal walls. If the worm is present, no treatment is possible, for the reason that any medicine that would affect the worm would also affect the tissues and lead to their destruction. Prevention, therefore, is the only means of overcoming the disease. Sheep must be kept off infested pastures, and infested pastures must be plowed and given over to cultivated crops. Give lambs only clean pastures to graze over. This means crop rotation in connection with sheep husbandry.No feed that has been tramped over by infected sheep should ever be supplied to lambs or sheep not infested with the disease.
—Difficult parturition is common in some females. And frequently others, less bothered as a rule with any difficulty at this period, deliver their offspring only after great labor and much difficulty. When such cases occur close vigilance not only frequently hastens delivery, but often saves the life of either the mother or offspring or both.
NATURAL PRESENTATION OF THE FOALIn either of these cases delivery follows in the usual order without delay or injury to the mother.
NATURAL PRESENTATION OF THE FOAL
In either of these cases delivery follows in the usual order without delay or injury to the mother.
In many instances the trouble is seated in the womb; the neck of the womb remains closed, and even though long-continued and vigorous efforts are made, the offspring does not arrive. In cases of this kind assistance can be rendered which quickly removes the difficulty. First oil the hand and forearm and work the fingers into the passage, gently pressing it open. If the womb does not yield to this treatment saturate a sponge or cloth with extract of belladonna and rub it around the neck, leaving it thus for a little while. On removing the sponge the passage will open.
—The natural position of the fetus at birth calls for the fore feet forward with the head resting on the knees. The fore feet, therefore, in a normal delivery, are first presented and then the head. If the fetus is not unduly large, the mother will likely force the delivery without assistance. In case the struggle is extended gentle assistance will be in order. This can be rendered by a gentle pull on the legs and head. If this does not bring the offspring, you can consider that something is wrong. However, do not be hasty, just give time. Mares usually deliver in a few minutes and cows often require an hour or so after labor begins. If you conclude that something is wrong oil the hand and arm. Shove the fetus back and ascertain, if possible, the trouble. If this examination shows dropsy of the abdomen—water in the belly—puncture the abdomen with a knife in order that the fetus may be delivered. If the trouble is with the head—water in the brain—puncture the head that the water may run out, and then remove the arm and hand. When the struggle pains come on again, give a gentle pull and delivery will follow.
Frequently the position is changed. Sometimes but one fore foot appears with the head, making it impossible to deliver the offspring. When a case like this occurs, shove the fetus back and bring the unpresented leg forward where it belongs, and then likely no further trouble will result. If the legs are in proper place but the head turned backward, it will be necessary to push the fetus back into the womb and bring the head forward in position. In case the head resists your efforts, adjust a noose over the head, and while you work with your hand inside, have an assistant gently pull on the rope, in order to draw the head into the properposition. After the head and fore feet are put in natural position, delivery will follow without further difficulty.
When all four feet appear together it is necessary to push the fore feet back into the womb just as far as it is possible to force them. This done, pull now on the hind feet and bring the fetus out, hind feet first. It is always a mistake to attempt delivery with the head first when delivery has proceeded as suggested in cases of this nature.
ABNORMAL PRESENTATION OF THE FOALDelivery is not possible in either of the cases here illustrated. Where such occur assistance must be rendered. See article onobstetricsfor treatment.
ABNORMAL PRESENTATION OF THE FOAL
Delivery is not possible in either of the cases here illustrated. Where such occur assistance must be rendered. See article onobstetricsfor treatment.
Where delivery is attempted with the hind legs foremost, it is regarded as safe, provided the feet come out as they should. If any difficulty is encountered, shove the fetus back, straighten the legs, and then with the renewal of the labor struggles assist the mother by a gentle pull on the hind legs.
Another common presentation is where you feel nothing but the tail, rump and hips. Adjust the fetus for proper delivery by shoving the hind end upwards and towards the front of the womb, then slip the hand down and get hold of the foot ofthe hind leg and lift upwards and backwards until the legs are brought out into the passage. Now repeat the work for the other leg and the job is done.
It is always a good plan, after difficult parturition, especially when any abnormal discharge appears, to wash out the womb with warm water in which a little carbolic acid or creolin is placed. Use this daily for a few days.
—The worms are found in the horse in two periods of existence. The mature worms are usually found attached to the mucous membrane of the intestinal wall of the large intestine, with the head sunk deep for the purpose of sucking blood, which gives them the brown or red color. The immature are found sometimes in the same organs, in a small capsule covering, in small pellets of manure, in cavities or cysts, varying in size from a pin-head to that of a hazel nut, in the walls of the intestines, and also in the arteries and other structures of the body.
When present in the kidneys or in the arteries leading to the kidneys, or in the surrounding tissues, a horse is especially sensitive to pressure over the loins. They have been known to cause paralysis. When found in the brain, an animal, when working, suddenly begins to stagger, the eyes become fixed, and the horse shows many of the symptoms of “blind staggers.” When the large arteries of the abdomen are affected, and this is their favorable location in the circulatory system, the animal is frequently subject to colic, which often results in death. This is also the case when found in great numbers in the intestines.
From a thorough investigation of a great many cases, both before and after death, the conclusionsare drawn that the parasite evolves a poisonous substance (toxin), which, in many instances, stupefies the brain or parts of the nervous system of the horse, and in that way causes coma, paralysis and death of the animal.
Prevention is the best treatment. Hay and fodder from swampy land are to be looked upon as suspicious. Pastures which are subject to overflow should be avoided. Medicinal treatment consists of a prolonged, careful use of some of the essential oils or other vermifuges. The ordinary spirits of turpentine has proved a fairly good common remedy. An ordinary animal will stand 8 tablespoonfuls of turpentine given in a pint to a quart of raw linseed oil, thoroughly mixed. If the animal is badly affected, the above dose may be given night and morning for two or three days, then omit for a week or two and repeat. The remedy should be discontinued as soon as the animal shows signs of irritation of the kidneys.
—A loss of power over some of the muscles due to a disordered state of the brain or nerves. This may result from disease or injury or some irritation. In horses and cattle the hindquarters are not infrequently affected in this way, the result of indigestion from constipation or from attacks of colic. The animal shows weakness in one hind limb, moving it with difficulty when the opposite limb may then become affected. If the attack is very severe, the animal falls on its haunches and may not be able to rise. Temperature, pulse and respiration, all are rather normal. Treatment should be directed to remove the cause of the disease. When there is colic or constipation, give purges. A half teaspoonful of extract of nux vomica, given in a pint of milk twice a day, isvery good. Pouring cold water from a height and then immediately hot water sometimes greatly strengthens the muscles and has its use in treating. Rubbing the parts with mustard stimulates them, and in some cases good results. Paralysis resulting from injury usually disappears as the part returns to its normal state.
—These are living plants or animals that live temporarily or continually in the bodies of other plants or animals and draw their nourishment from their host. It is doubtful if there is a single farm animal that does not harbor parasites at nearly all times during its life. There may be many of these in the same individual at the same time. Parasites may be harmful or not, as the case may be. Parasites may be divided into two classes—plant parasites and animal parasites. The bacteria and molds are the most important among the former, whereas in the latter certain minute protozoa, certain forms of insects and certain worms are the most commonly met. Such diseases as staggers, tuberculosis, and typhoid fever are the result of bacterial diseases, while Texas fever is an example of the protozoa class; and then the insects and worms are types with which we are all acquainted. When a disease is caused by either, discussion will be found under the name of that disease.
—SeeMilk Fever.
—SeeObstetrics.
—An inflammation of the membrane which lines the abdominal cavity and which also invests the abdominal organs. It may be caused from some exposure to cold after some weakening disease. Some injury to the abdomenor belly may cause it, or it may start from some inflammation that has attacked the stomach, liver, intestines, or the spleen. When attacked, a slight pain is felt and the animal lies down, stretches himself, sweats freely, and moans. Then he rises, walks about somewhat, and all the time breathes heavy and shows much weakness. The pulse runs up between 75 and 100 beats a minute. In time the legs and ears get cold. A good treatment is a pint of raw linseed oil, 4 tablespoonfuls of laudanum, and 10 drops of aconite. Mix these and give as a drench. A mustard plaster for the abdomen and something hot for the back are desirable. In two hours, if the pain continues, give 4 tablespoonfuls of laudanum and 10 drops aconite in a pint of lukewarm water. Use as a drench.
—A contagious epidemic disease of the horse affecting the animal all over and particularly the membranes of the air passages. There is general debility, considerable cough, and a general discharge from the nostrils. The transparent covering of the eyeball becomes inflamed. At times the disease is very fatal, many horses succumbing to it. It is most common in the spring.
One of the symptoms is the general weakness of the animal. He hangs his head, and trembles; has little appetite and appears cold. The eyes show a watery discharge and later a stare coat. The pulse at first is weak, but quick, and later rising to 80 or 90 beats a minute. At this stage the temperature is high, around 103 to 105 degrees. The breathing is accelerated to about 50 times a minute. The bowels do not act, or act very poorly, and the urine is very scanty. In treating, first isolate the animal and disinfect the stables to prevent spreading. Any of the common disinfectants will do.
Good nursing is necessary. Keep the horse warm with blankets. Give him soft, nourishing food. The eyes should be bathed three or four times a day with hot water. A little boric acid, say, a teaspoonful to a half pint of water, is good to use as a wash for the eyes and nostrils. To keep the kidneys active and to reduce the fever, give a tablespoonful of nitrate of potash dissolved in water two or three times a day. If the horse is very weak, one-half glass of whiskey in a pint of gruel three times a day is stimulating and helpful. It is better not to give any physic of any kind. After recovery, the horse should be given little or no work. A long rest of several weeks is necessary.
—The covering of the fetus, commonly called the afterbirth. As a rule, this comes away with the birth of the offspring. Occasionally in the cow it remains attached to the walls of the uterus, and if not removed will cause trouble, if not sickness and death. Soon after the birth of the calf, if the afterbirth remains, decomposition sets in and as a result the system is more or less poisoned. The first symptoms observed are the offensive odor, the reddish discharge and the decrease in the milk flow.
If the afterbirth does not come away of itself, assistance is necessary. Do this during the first or second day, or the third day at the latest. To remove the afterbirth, tie up the cow and fasten her in a way that she cannot jump around. Now introduce the hand and arm, after careful washing and disinfecting and oiling, into the uterus and gradually and gently break the buttons or attachments from the walls of the uterus with the fingers. With patience these will come away and the wholemembrane be removed. An occasional injection is advisable. Use some good disinfectant in the water, flush out thoroughly.
—This disease occurs in the chest cavity and is found inside the ribs and over the lungs. It is caused very much in the same way as inflammation of the lungs, like exposure to cold, standing in a draft, and cooling when warm. Some injury to the ribs may also cause the trouble.
In the early stages the animal is noticed to shiver, the pulse is quick and strong, and there is great pain. The breath is heavy, and this is noticed as far back as the flanks. While the animal may lie down, its disposition is to stand up most of the time. There is an inclination to cough, but this is suppressed, because of the pain occasioned by it; therefore the cough really ends in a groan rather than in a normal cough. The extremities of the body become cold.
The best treatment endeavors to prevent the disease from developing. Do just as you would in a case of inflammation of the lungs. Mustard plasters for the chest on each side are good. Keep the body well covered, including the legs and neck; have good ventilation in the stable, but keep the patient out of any draft.
As soon as the disease is noticed, mix the following in a pint of cold water, and give as a drench: Ten drops of aconite, a half teaspoonful of belladonna and two tablespoonfuls of laudanum. These should be given every two hours until the pain subsides. If the animal seems to be weak, and needs a stimulant, give 4 tablespoonfuls of spirits of niter and a half glass of whiskey. This may be given in a pint of cold water mixed with the gruel and given as a drench three or four times a day.
At the same time use the following medicine to improve the kidney action: One-fourth pound of saltpeter or nitrate of potash and one-fourth of a pound of gentian root. These are to be mixed well together and a teaspoonful given three or four times daily. Soft foods are desirable. A small amount of water should be given frequently. Small quantities at a time are preferable to large quantities at infrequent intervals.
—This is a very contagious disease of cattle introduced in this country from Europe. At one time it was a very serious menace to the cattle industry. Thanks to the very aggressive work of the United States Department of Agriculture, the disease has, so far as is known, been eradicated from this country. No cases of the disease have been reported during the past dozen years.
—SeeInflammation of the Lungs.
—A swelling or soreness at the top of the head. Usually it is caused by an injury, like bumping the head in a doorway, or from a bruise made by the halter or bridle. It is first noticed by a swelling or soreness, which frequently causes trouble by forming an abscess; sometimes this works down and even affects the bone. Treatment is very simple if handled in time. Remove the cause and then bathe with warm water and vinegar twice a day and apply a liniment of some kind. If the abscess is formed, it should be opened with a knife at the lowest point to remove the matter. From now on for a few days bathe the opening with warm water in which has been added some carbolic acid or creolin. If the case causes much trouble, you had better consult a veterinarian, as bad cases frequentlyleave the neck stiff so that the animals are not able to eat off the ground.
—SeeSand Crack.
—A name given to a fistulous opening upon the heels and quarters of the coronary band, and is caused by treads, pricks in shoeing, bruises, and suppurating corns. Any injury which will cause suppuration within the foot will usually cause matter to form at the coronet, and may result in quittor. The disease is indicated by a swelling upon the coronet where the hair and hoof meet, great lameness, and a discharge of thin or thick curdy pus. There may be one or a number of small openings leading down into the sensitive part of the foot. The parts surrounding the quittor swell and become hard and take on an unhealthy action and are difficult to cure, and may be permanently diseased.