Composed of compound chalk powder, 20 parts; cinnamon water, 40 parts;
water to make 100.
DOSE.--Dogs, 1 to 2 oz.; cats, 1 to 2 dr.
ACTIONS.--Internally, chalk is the slowest acting antacid, because of
its comparative insolubility and is of value when it can exert its
long-continued influence throughout the digestive tract. It resembles
bismuth in mechanically coating or protecting inflamed or irritable
surfaces. It is not so astringent nor antiseptic as the bismuth salts,
and these are generally preferable to chalk for the smaller animals. It
is excreted unchanged in the feces. Externally it is a dessicant and
slightly astringent powder, also protective.
USES.--Chalk forms a dusting powder for moist eczema, slight burns and
intertrigo; zinc oxide and starch (one to four) is, however, a better
preparation. Chalk is the most useful antacid for diarrhoea accompanied
by fermentation of the intestinal contents, while its local astringent
and protecting influence assists in overcoming the trouble. It is
especially good for foals and calves given in flour gruel and often
conjoined with catechu, ginger and opium.
Chalk may be given to dogs in pills or powder; to other animals in
powder, capsules or electuary. Chalk is frequently prescribed suspended
in flour, gruel, milk or mucilage to the larger animals. The chalk
preparations are suitable for dogs and cats.