Cattle very frequently show signs of diseased liver. Stall-fed oxen and
cows kept in cities are most liable to derangement of the liver; in such
animals, (after death,) there is an unusual yellowness of the fat. A
disease of the liver may exist for a long time without interfering much
with the general health. Mr. Youatt informs us that "a chronic form of
diseased liver may exist for some months, or years, not characterized by
any decided symptom, and but little interfering with health."
_Symptoms._--Permanent yellowness of the eyes; quick pulse; dry muzzle;
hot mouth; considerable pain when pressure is made on the right side.
Occasionally the animal looks round and licks the spot over the region
of the liver.
_Treatment._--First give half pint doses of thoroughwort tea, at
intervals of one hour, (_to the amount of two quarts_.) This will relax
the system, and equalize vital action. The following drench is then to
be given:--
Extract of butternut, half an ounce.
Warm water, 1 quart.
If the butternut cannot be obtained, substitute a dose of physic. (See
APPENDIX.) Stimulate the bowels to action by injections of
soap-suds. If the extremities are cold, proceed to warm them in the
manner alluded to in article _Inflammation of the Bowels_. On the other
hand, if the surface of the body is hot and dry, and there is much fever
present, indicated by a quick pulse and dry muzzle, then bathe the whole
surface with weak saleratus water, sufficiently warm to relax the
external surface. The following fever drink may be given daily until
rumination again commences:--
Lemon balm, 2 ounces.
Cream of tartar, 1 ounce.
Honey, 1 gill.
Water, 2 quarts.
First pour the boiling water on the balm; after standing a few minutes,
strain; then add the above ingredients.