This has been noticed most commonly in the mare, which from a quiet
docile animal, has become very ticklish, especially in the region of the
flank, kicking on the slightest touch, or even when approached and
showing an amount of nervous apprehension, that may render her useless,
for work. The ovaries are usually found to be enlarged, diseased and
very sensitive. Œstrum may be in some cases constant and excessive and
in others entirely suspended. Such cases are difficult or dangerous to
shoe. In one case recorded by Thierry, handling of the flank promptly
induced an epileptic attack. Cows with nymphomania (bullers) are often
victims of this condition. The only remedy is castration, which is best
performed by the vagina. The shorter the period of the irritability the
more perfect is the cure. In some old standing cases the vicious habit
may have become so fixed, that it is continued in spite of the
operation.