CHAPTER I

GENERAL DISEASES

Black Leg

Black Leg affects cattle when from three months to two years old,

younger or older than this they rarely have it. It comes from a well

known germ, the Bacillus Chanvoei, which enters the system through a cut

or scratch, such as produced by thorns, barbed wire, etc. The disease

cannot be transmitted to man.

SYMPTOMS.—The chief characteristic of this disease is the swellings

which may appear on any part of the body, except the tail or below the

knee or hock. The thigh and shoulder are most commonly attacked. The

swellings rapidly increase in number and may run together. They give a

crackling sensation on pressure and are cool and without tenderness in

the center. If opened in the center there is no pain and a frothy fluid

comes out.

There are also general symptoms as follows: the animal does not eat or

chew the cud, loss of strength and general depression, high fever,

lameness, stiffness and often dragging of one leg on account of the

swellings. These symptoms increase as the disease progresses, the

breathing becomes faster, the animal groans and may have attacks of

colic. The animal almost always dies in from one and one-half to three

days.

TREATMENT.—The disease is incurable, and diseased animals should be

killed at once, the bodies burned and the premises disinfected as given

under Abortion, page 122. The healthy animals should be moved to another

pasture and the infected pasture burned off the following winter, this

destroys the germs in that pasture.

Cattle may be rendered immune to Black Leg by vaccination. The vaccine

with directions for its use is given away to stock owners by the Chief

of the Bureau of Animal Industry, U. S. Department of Agriculture,

Washington, D. C.

Foot and Mouth Disease—Eczema Epizootica

DEFINITION.—An acute, contagious fever, characterized by the formation

of vesicles and ulcers, chiefly about the mouth and hoofs, etc. The

eruptions appear on the mucous membrane of the mouth, on the fetlock,

and in the cleft of the hoofs, and not unfrequently as a eruption on the

udder. The disorder chiefly prevails among cattle and sheep, but under

favoring circumstances, also attacks other domestic quadrupeds, and even

man.

CAUSES.—It appears as an epidemic, and spreads exclusively by contagion.

The precise nature of the germ is unknown, but it is chiefly limited to

the contents of the vesicles, the secretion of the ulcers, the saliva,

the blood and the natural secretions and excretions, of the diseased

animal; and these convey the disease. The predisposing causes are

exposure to cold, wet, currents of cold air, poor fodder, want of

cleanliness and good housing; and anything that tends to lower the

constitutional vitality. The activity of the virus is preserved for many

months. The poison may be conveyed by the clothes of herdsmen and other

persons, by manure, tools, fodder, by grass and ground previously

trodden by diseased animals, and milk to sucking calves, indeed by

almost anything. It finds its way into the system in various ways, not

depending on any wound for admission. The communication to man is by

drinking the milk of diseased cows. A second attack is rare.

SYMPTOMS.—After a period of incubation, lasting from three to six days,

the animal is seized with a shivering fit, and appears dull and

stupified. A vesicular eruption soon appears on the mouth, the hoofs,

and the teats. Sucking calves have a similar eruption on the fauces and

pharynx, with irritation of the whole alimentary canal, attended with

inability to suck, and exhausting diarrhea. The eyes are then observed

to be dim, watery, congested; the muzzle, ears and horns alternately hot

and cold; shivering ensues; rumination is diminished; the milk is less

in quantity, yellower and thicker than usual, and much deteriorated in

quality; the bag swollen, tender, hot; the back arched; the coat staring

and harsh; the pulse somewhat accelerated; the temperature moderately

elevated, reaching 102°, or even 104°; the eruption in the month is

first seen on the inner surface of the upper lip, the edge of the upper

jaw where there are no teeth, on the tip and edges of the tongue, and is

indicated by salivation, by pain and loss of power in taking and eating

food. The vesicles occur on the mucous membrane, singly or in patches,

first as little red spots, then as whitish-yellow, slightly turbid

blisters, about the size of a bean, at first transparent, but

subsequently filled with a puriform fluid. These vesicles burst in about

eighteen hours, discharge their fluid, leaving behind shallow ulcers,

which often run together and then form deep and ragged ulcers. The lips,

cheeks, tongue, and sometimes the Schneiderian membrane, are affected.

The eruption on the feet is first seen around the coronet and in the

interdigital space, especially of the hind legs; and the resulting

vesicles burst quickly, because of the animal’s movements. The animal

evidently suffers intense pain, is lame or unable to stand, and moves

reluctantly or cautiously; the hoofs swell; the vascular secreting

membranes become inflamed; the hoofs are cast; the bones may become

diseased; and serious mischief may ensue. The eruption on the udder

turns to vesicles, as in the mouth, and, when the fluid dries or

escapes, thin scales are formed. The teats are swollen and sore. In

exceptional cases, a vesicular eruption appears on the muzzle, the

mucous membrane of the nostrils, the conjunctivae of the eyes, and the

mucous membrane of the vagina.

In favorable cases, the fever subsides about the fourth day, the

eruption declines, the appetite returns, and in seven to fourteen days

the animal recovers. But complications are not uncommon. And in

unfavorable cases the fever is high, the ulceration increases, the

animal suffers from exhaustion, wasting, discharge of stringy, bloody

mucous from the mouth, and of offensive matter from the nostrils; the

face is swollen, the breath foul, the respiration rapid and grunting;

the pulse small, weak, rapid; the blood becomes impure; the belly and

legs œdematous; the hoofs slough off; diarrhea supervenes, and death

follows about the ninth or tenth day. An aggravation may occur in milch

cows by the bursting of the vesicles when the teat is grasped in

milking, for the fluid escapes, the sore bleeds and ulcer spreads; and

though the sore be scabbed over between the milking times, the scab is

then again pulled off. The consequence is that the cow, feeling intense

pain and irritation, kicks, resents the milking, holds back the milk,

and thus prevents the “stripping” of the udder. The effect of this may

be an attack of inflammation of the udder, which may prove fatal, or may

be followed by induration and atrophy of the udder. Or abscesses may

form in the udder, and sometimes large portions of it slough away,

rendering the cow comparatively useless for milking purposes. Abortion

is not uncommon.

This disease may be easily mistaken for Stomatitis, cow pox or fowl of

the foot. However in Stomatitis there is no eruption on the foot; and in

cow pox and fowl of the foot there is no eruption on the muzzle.

PROGNOSIS.—This is unfavorable—The United States Government and the

Health Officers of the several States require all suspected cases of

Foot and Mouth Disease to be quarantined, and upon the full development

of the disease all animals infected, to be killed. Human beings are

liable to become infected, great care should be exercised in handling

diseased animals or their carcases.

Rheumatism

This disease is almost invariably the consequence of cold and wet, or

chill after over-exertion. The symptoms are as follows:

Dullness; loss of spirits; disinclination to move, and painful stiffness

of the back or joints when moving; loss of appetite; pain in the back,

manifested by the animal flinching when pressed upon; the joints, one or

more, become affected, and the animal prefers to lie down, and cannot

move without great pain and difficulty; the joints, or one or more of

them, become swelled, and are also exceedingly hot and tender to the

touch. In some cases, there is considerable heat and fever, in others,

it is but slight. The complaint is quite liable to return from exposure,

changes of weather, or even the wind blowing from a different quarter.

The disease not unfrequently changes from one joint or limb to another.

TREATMENT.—The B.B., is for all the usual forms of this disease, giving

twenty drops, three or four times per day, in severe cases, and morning

and night in the mild ones.

When the disease is ushered in or attended with considerable heat and

fever, either during its continuance, or from the first, the A.A., in

doses of twenty drops, should be alternated with the B.B., at the

intervals mentioned above.

Lumbago

This is merely a form of rheumatism, locating itself upon the muscles of

the loins. It may be mistaken for some other or different disease, and

hence its symptoms should be known.

SYMPTOMS.—After some exposure, especially to cold or wet, or a draft of

air, the cow will suddenly become lame in one leg, without other signs

to explain the nature of the attack. Another leg may then be affected,

while the first one seems better or quite well. Some pain and heat may

be discovered in one of the joints; and then the muscles of the back

show more clearly the location of the disease; or from the first the

disease may be referable to this point; the animal yields and flinches

when they are pressed upon, in consequence of the pain; the beast is not

able to walk, or does so very stiffly and awkwardly, in consequence of

increased pain from movement. These attacks may continue for a time,

disappear and return again, in consequence of new exposure.

TREATMENT.—The B.B. should be given, a dose of twenty drops, three times

per day, which follow with J.K.

Ophthalmia, Inflammation of the Eye

Diseased and inflamed eyes in cattle may sometimes occur as a result of

congestion, or from inflammation or a cold, but in general from an

injury, the result of a blow of a whip, or stick, or from dirt or hay

seed, or some similar substance irritating the eye.

SYMPTOMS.—The eyelids are swelled and closed; tears flow in abundance;

the eye shrinks from the light when the lids are opened; the white of

the eye or conjunctiva is reddish or covered with red veins; the haw is

also red and swollen; the eye itself is clouded and covered with a film.

TREATMENT.—Examine the eye for dirt, hay seed, or other substances, and

when found remove them. Bathe the eye with HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH

HAZEL, diluted half and half with soft water, morning and night, until

the more violent symptoms are removed. Give, internally, fifteen drops

of A.A. each morning and night.

In long standing cases, a dose of I.I., repeated every few nights, will

be found of great value, while the A.A. is given each morning.

Fits, Convulsions, Epilepsy

The symptoms of fits are pretty well known. Without any or very trifling

warning, the beast staggers and falls suddenly to the ground; he often

bellows in the most alarming manner; then every part of the body is

violently convulsed; the tail is lashed; the teeth are ground; the mouth

closed, and jaws fastened together; the breathing is quick and attended

with heaving at the flanks; frothy saliva dribbles from the mouth, and

the urine and dung are discharged involuntarily. In a few moments the

convulsions become less severe, then cease, and the animal soon seems as

well as if nothing had happened.

Fits are most apt to attack young, vigorous, well fed cattle, or those

that have been much exposed to the direct action of the sun.

TREATMENT.—Little or nothing can be done during an attack; but as one is

likely to be followed by another, the medicine should be given as soon

as the attack is well over.

Give, immediately after the attack, twenty drops of the A.A., and repeat

the remedy morning and night for some days.

If an animal is subject to these fits (epilepsy), returning at intervals

of a few days or weeks, give, alternately, at intervals of six or eight

days, twenty drops of A.A., and J.K., and continue these for some time.

Foul in the Foot, Foot-rot

Usually comes from standing on a filthy floor, but may follow an injury

or tuberculosis.

There is lameness and swelling of the pasterns, and heat, with evident

pain; matter then forms, and unless it is let out, it will extend in all

directions under the foot, and appear at the coronet or top of the hoof;

and from this long, narrow ulcers remain, and proud flesh springs up

from the diseased places.

TREATMENT.—Place animal in stall with clean dry bedding. Examine the

foot carefully, and remove all foreign substances, dirt, etc., that may

be found; then foment the foot with hot water, night and morning, and

apply the VETERINARY OIL, and wrap it up with a cloth to keep it clean;

the hoof should be pared, and those parts of it cut away that may

interfere with the escape of matter; all dead hoof must be removed. The

sore must be examined, and if dark and unhealthy, the OIL and covering

must be renewed from time to time until the dark matter sloughs off.

After the ulcer looks clean, simply apply the VETERINARY OIL, over which

a cloth must be kept wrapped around to prevent dirt lodging in the wound

and causing fresh irritation. These may be renewed, if needful, until

entire recovery.

Give also the I.I., each night, a dose of twenty drops.

Mange

MANGE is a disease caused by parasites which live on the skin of the

animal. These parasites are of three kinds: 1. Burrowing mites or

Sarcoptes. 2. Sucking mites or Dermatodectes. 3. Scale eating mites or

Symbiotes. The first class can be seen only with a magnifying glass but

the last two can be seen with the naked eye.

SARCOPTIC MANGE is very rare in cattle; the dermatodectic and symbiotic

are the usual forms.

SYMPTOMS.—Great itching; so that the animal is continually rubbing

itself, the hair falls off, scabs or sores remain in patches

particularly at the sides and hollow of the neck and the root of the

tail.

TREATMENT.—Clip the hair around the sore places and soften scabs by

applying oil or glycerine containing 5% of creolin or lysol. Then apply

a thick lather of green soap and leave on over night. These applications

are to soften and remove the scabs and prepare the skin for the real

remedy. Of these there are many; sulphur ointment (equal parts flowers

of sulphur and lard) is an old standby or you can use a 3% solution of

creolin or lysol. This should be thoroughly rubbed into the skin by a

brush and kept on for a week reapplying as it becomes rubbed off. Then

wash off and reapply for another week. The reason for the second

application is that while the first will kill off all the animals, there

may be some eggs that are not killed and if only one application is made

after it has been removed, the eggs may hatch out and the Mange come

back.

Hidebound

This condition, in which the skin seems firm, hard and bound to the

parts beneath, is due to some morbid condition of the system rather than

to a disease of the skin itself. There is most frequently some

derangement of the stomach, or some old standing organic disease. Remove

these, and the disease disappears, and the hide becomes soft and loose.

TREATMENT.—Giving twenty drops of J.K., morning and night, will

generally remove the difficulty.

If it fails after a fair trial, give the J.K., each night, and twenty

drops of I.I., each morning.

Anthrax

ANTHRAX is a very contagious disease from which comes a well known germ,

the bacillus anthracis, and which attacks almost all animals and man.

The germ lives in the animal’s body and also in rich moist soils, and is

very difficult to eradicate. The germ enters the body by the mouth, in

food or water, or through cuts in the skin.

SYMPTOMS.—There is sudden high fever (105 to 107) the pulse is very

frequent (80 to a 100 or more) small and scarcely perceptible. The

mucous membrane of the head becomes very red, the eyes red, swollen and

filled with tears. The temperature of the body is unequally distributed,

some parts hot, others cold. The animal does not eat or chew the cud.

There is great depression, weakness, stupor and loss of sensation. There

is trembling over the body, particularly in the hind quarters, which may

even “give way”. Sometimes instead of stupor, there are attacks of fury,

where the animal will bellow and dash itself against any object it may

see.

There may or may not be carbuncles, these are small swellings about the

size of a walnut, which may appear on the head, chest, abdomen, etc.,

they are blue-black or dark red in color and are not usually painful.

One of the most remarkable things about anthrax is its rapid course,

most animals die in from 12 to 48 hours. After death the bodies do not

get stiff and decay very rapidly.

TREATMENT.—This disease is recognized as being incurable, and generally

fatal. In suspected cases, give A.A., every two hours, until the animal

improves, or the disease becomes thoroughly developed in which latter

case the animal should be killed at once, the body burned, and the

premises disinfected as given under contagious abortion, page 122.

Big Jaw—Actinomycosis

This disease is caused by the Ray fungus which is sometimes found on

barley, oats, cactus, dried grass, etc., and which enters the body of

the animal through cuts or wounds on the tongue, gums, etc., and

particularly with young animals at teething time.

SYMPTOMS.—These of course vary with the position of the wound, through

which the fungus entered the body. If on the tongue, the tongue becomes

swollen and very painful “wooden tongue.” If around the teeth, the jaw

becomes swollen and finally the growth breaks through the skin or into

the mouth. If through the skin of the head or neck, large nodules

appear, varying in size from a hazel nut to a man’s fist.

TREATMENT.—The most successful treatment is by cutting out the nodules;

this of course should be done by a Veterinary Surgeon.

We advise calling a Veterinary Surgeon and having him perform the

operation as soon as possible, as the disease is usually curable if

properly handled and it cannot be transmitted to man or to the other

animals.

Texas Fever—Red Water—Black Water—Hemoglobinuria

This disease is an infection of the blood by small animals called

protozoa which are transmitted by the cattle tick. Only cattle get this

disease although other animals may have plenty of ticks.

The cattle tick spends part of its life on the animal and part on the

ground. The females after having become pregnant, while on the cattle,

drop to the ground and lay their eggs; when the eggs hatch, the young

ticks crawl to the top of the blades of grass and attach themselves to

the cattle.

There are two types of this disease, the acute and the chronic, the

acute form usually attacks cattle in hot weather, while the chronic or

mild form is more apt to be found in the fall.

SYMPTOMS.—In the acute form there is fever, great depression, loss of

appetite, and the animal does not chew the cud. The animal lies down or

stands with arched back. The most characteristic symptom is the color of

the urine; this ranges from pink to black. Death takes place in from

three to four days, generally preceded by a fall of temperature, or the

fever may drop and the animal recover very slowly. In the chronic or

mild type, there is fever, loss of appetite, the animal does not chew

the cud and may become very thin; but usually the urine is not

discolored. In this type of the disease the animals usually recover.

You should be careful not to mistake Texas Fever for Anthrax or Black

Leg. In Texas Fever the ticks are always found on the hide, and calves

do not have it while all animals have Anthrax. The membranes are pale in

Texas Fever, but very red in Anthrax. In Black Leg the animals are from

six months to two years old, older or younger they do not have it; and

of course there are the characteristic swellings.

TREATMENT.—Prevention is usually more satisfactory than treatment after

the disease has started. However as the disease is not transmitted to

the other animals or to man, there is no reason for not trying to save

the animal. Give A.A., twenty drops four times a day for two days, then

alternate H.H., with the A.A. Remove all ticks and place in a tick free

enclosure and give nourishing diet.

PREVENTION.—For small numbers of animals in infested districts.

Pick or brush the ticks from the animals three times per week

particularly from belly, legs, tail and udder from June 1st to November

1st.

Or smear the legs and sides of the cattle twice a week with Beaumont

crude petroleum, or a mixture of 1 gallon each of cottonseed and

kerosene oil (coal oil) containing 1 pound of sulphur, these may be

either brushed or sprayed on from June 1st to November 1st.

For large numbers of animals write to the Bureau of Animal Industry, U.

S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, D. C., and ask for Farmers

Bulletin No. 152.

To remove ticks from an infested pasture.

1. Remove all animals on September 1st and allow no animals on the

pasture until April 1st, or cultivate the pasture for a year, or burn it

over in spring and fall, and allow no animals with ticks on it.

Government Approvals

* * * * *

Approval of DR. HUMPHREYS’ PREPARATIONS has been bestowed by the Medical

Authorities of different American Republics. Their introduction into

France has been allowed by the French Government. They have been

approved by the National Board of Health of the Argentine Republic and

by the National Board of Health of the United States of Brazil.

Many complete outfits of HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY REMEDIES have been

furnished to the United States Geological Survey, Department of the

Interior.

HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY REMEDIES are constantly being supplied to the U.

S. Naval Magazines, Iona Island, New York.

Humphreys’ Homeo. Medicine Co.

Cor. William and Ann Streets NEW YORK

CHAPTER II.—PART II.

DISEASES OF THE ORGANS OF RESPIRATION

Choryza, or Cold in the Head

This very common affection consists of an irritation, and sometimes

inflammation of the lining membrane of the nose. It is usually caused by

exposure to cold or wet, or too sudden changes of weather; it is

sometimes the commencement of catarrh, and is most frequent during

winter and early spring; or it may arise from the irritation of dust

inhaled during a long journey.

SYMPTOMS.—In some cases of cold, the irritation is confined to the nose

alone, and is then known as Choryza. It is manifested by a discharge

from the nose, first thin and watery, afterward becoming thicker, like

matter, and corrosive, fretting the skin.

If the disease extends along the air passages, bronchitis, or even

inflammation of the lungs, results, manifested by the cough, fever and

difficulty of breathing peculiar to these affections.

TREATMENT.—For mere choryza or cold in the head, give twenty drops of

C.C., morning and night.

If symptoms of Fever, Bronchitis, or Pneumonia should be present,

interpose a few doses of A.A., twenty drops, repeated every three or

four hours, which will promptly relieve. Consult also what is said on

Bronchitis or Pneumonia.

Hoose, Catarrh, or Common Cold

Differs from the Choryza, as the irritation involves the lining membrane

of the entire air passages. It is most frequent in the changeable

weather of spring and fall, when cattle are exposed to frequent

alternations of temperature, or when too many cows are crowded together

in a stable, rendering the air hot and impure. Young beasts and cows

after calving are especially subject to hoose.

SYMPTOMS.—Dry nose, frequent cough, discharge from the nostrils,

stiffness of the limbs, disinclination to move, purging, cold skin, and

then hot; imperfect chewing of the cud, failing of milk, watery eyes,

quick pulse and breathing. It is very frequent and very fatal in calves,

and requires to be attended to promptly in all cases, or it will end in

some more dangerous disease.

TREATMENT.—During the earlier stage, with fever, heat, quick pulse and

breathing, give the A.A., a dose of twenty drops, four times per day.

Should cough and irritation remain, or not yield promptly to the A.A.,

give the E.E., the same dose, repeated four times daily; or if fever yet

continues, give the two Remedies in alternation, at intervals of three

hours.

For calves, give one-third or half as much as for grown cattle,

according to age or size.

Sore Throat or Pharyngitis

The disease consists of inflammation, with consequent swelling and

soreness of the top of the gullet or passage between the mouth and

stomach. It arises from the same causes which produce colds, and

sometimes assumes an epidemic and very fatal character, especially when

the spring or fall is very cold and wet and the animals graze on damp,

marshy grounds. It is usually accompanied with catarrh.

SYMPTOMS.—Difficulty of swallowing, so that solid food is partially

chewed and then dropped from the mouth; fluids are gulped down, or

partly return through the nostrils; or all food may be refused in

consequence of the severe pain attending swallowing; the cud is not

chewed; the throat and glands of the neck are swelled, hot and painful;

the cough is frequent, hoarse, and indicates pain; the breathing becomes

very difficult and labored, and the pulse full and quick.

TREATMENT.—Give twenty drops of A.A., every three or four hours, until

three doses have been given, then begin with the C.C., and give every

three hours of the C.C., in alternation with the A.A. As the animal

improves and the fever and heat abate, the A.A., may be discontinued,

and the C.C., be used alone, at intervals of four or six hours.

In all febrile diseases of cattle, it is of the utmost importance to

house them in a _warm_, _dry_, _comfortable stable_, free from exposure,

dampness, or cold drafts of air, especially in cold or moist weather.

Cough

Cough in the cow is rarely or never a disease of itself, but merely a

symptom or attendant of some disease of the respiratory organs, such as

Catarrh, Bronchitis, Pleurisy or Pneumonia, of which it is merely the

indication. Its symptomatic importance is such that it always deserves

attention, and its cause should at once be carefully investigated. In

some case very grave alterations may be going on in the lungs, which

will escape notice if attention be not directed to it by means of the

cough. Examine the animal carefully, ascertain the state of her pulse,

breathing, appetite, secretion of milk, etc., and direct treatment for

such disease as is found to be present.

However, in the absence of any special indications, the E.E., should be

given, a dose of twenty drops morning and night, which will generally

relieve, and will not be out of place in any case.

Bronchitis, or Inflammation of the Bronchial Tubes

This disease is usually the result of exposure to cold and wet, or

sudden changes of temperature; it is almost always preceded by a common

cold, which has been neglected or overlooked.

SYMPTOMS.—Cough, which becomes by degrees more painful, frequent and

husky; the countenance becomes anxious and distressed; the breathing is

quick, heaving and obstructed, in consequence of tough, tenacious

phlegm; unwillingness to move; the breath is hot; the cough is increased

by moving about, occurs in fits, and is wheezing in character; no food

is eaten; the animal wastes; skin becomes dry, and is bound to the ribs;

the coat stares and looks unthrifty. The animal may die from extension

of the disease to the substance of the lungs.

TREATMENT.—The earlier stages of this disease, or catarrh, should be

treated at once, as directed under that head. Then a dose or two of the

remedy for that disease removes all danger.

Remove the animal to a warm but well ventilated stable, and feed on warm

mashes and gruel.

Give first, at intervals of two hours, two or three doses of A.A.,

twenty drops at a dose. This will allay the heat and fever to some

extent. Then alternate, at intervals of three hours, the E.E., with the

A.A., the same doses, and continue this treatment until restored, only

that the medicine need not be given so frequently after improvement has

progressed.

Pleurisy

This disease consists of an inflammation of the delicate membrane which

lines the chest, and also is reflected over or covers the lungs.

It is caused most frequently by exposure to cold, or from the extension

of catarrh. Pleurisy rarely exists alone, but is almost invariably

complicated with bronchitis or pneumonia, or both.

SYMPTOMS.—The disease generally begins in the same manner as pneumonia,

with dullness, loss of appetite, etc. The cough is attended with pain,

and seems to be cut short, as if the animal tried to stop it; the

breathing is short, seemingly cut off and evidently painful during the

passage of the air into the lungs, and is attended with a grunt during

its expiration; the sides are painful when pressed upon; the skin, at

the angles of the mouth, is wrinkled; the shoulders and upper part of

the chest are in a constant quiver; the head is stretched out; the eyes

are unusually bright; the tongue hangs out of the mouth, from which

frothy slaver is continually flowing. The animal neither eats nor chews

the cud; she gets weaker and thinner every day, and all the symptoms

become more and more severe until death ensues, often preceded by

excessive purging.

TREATMENT.—Give at first the A.A., a dose of twenty drops, every two

hours, and continue this the first day and night if the case is severe.

Then alternate the E.E., with the A.A., at intervals of two, three or

four hours.

FOOD AND STABLING.—In all serious diseases of the air-passages,

Bronchitis, Pleurisy, Pneumonia, etc., the animal should be placed in a

dry, comfortable stable, not too close, and her food should consist of

bran mashes, boiled carrots or turnips, meal-gruel and hay tea. Good old

hay may be given _sparingly_; straw and chaff not at all. When the

appetite is returning, great care must be taken not to give too much

food at once, for if the stomach is overloaded or crammed, disease is

almost sure to return, and the animal to die in consequence. _Give but

very sparingly of food_ until the stomach has fully regained its former

power of digestion.

Pneumonia, or Inflammation of the Lungs

This is an inflammation of the substance of the lungs, or lights, and is

rarely unaccompanied with pleurisy or bronchitis. It is usually brought

on by exposure to cold or sudden changes of temperature, or from the

extension of a common cold.

THE SYMPTOMS are as follows: The cow becomes dull, disinclined to move,

and hangs her head; the muzzle is dry; the mouth hot; the cough frequent

and dry; the coat rough and staring; the horns, ears and feet are hot at

one time and cold at another; the breathing is quickened and attended

with heaving of the flanks; the pulse is full and quick; appetite is

gone and chewing of the cud suspended. The thirst is great, bowels bound

and dung dark-colored; the spine is tender when pressed upon; the head

projected forward and eyes staring; tears flow down the face; the teeth

are ground; a discharge flows from the nose, at first clear and watery,

afterwards red and containing some blood; the breathing becomes quicker,

more difficult, and labored as the disease advances; the cough comes on

in fits; the nostrils are widened, and play to their utmost limit; the

body is covered with sweat; the pulse becomes weaker and increased in

frequency, and these symptoms increase in violence and become gradually

worse until the animal dies.

TREATMENT.—Give, the first twelve or twenty-four hours, the A.A., a dose

of twenty drops, every two hours.

After the fever and heat have been thus in a measure subdued, alternate

the E.E. with the A.A., at intervals of three hours, giving as before,

twenty drops at a dose.

Continue this treatment steadily, except that, unless the case is very

critical and urgent, the medicine need not to be kept up during the

night, but a dose of the E.E. may be given, late in the night, and be

permitted to act undisturbed until the morning; then go on as before.

For food and stabling, consult the article on Pleurisy, page 149.

Bronchitis from Worms

CAUSES.—Calves and yearlings are particularly liable to the production

of parasite worms, of the genus _Filaria_, in the bronchial tubes, which

are sometimes choked up with them. They are from one to three inches

long, of a silvery color, and generally invade cattle fed in low, marshy

or woody pasture, where there is little water.

SYMPTOMS.—Slight catarrh; cough, at first dry and husky, then short and

paroxysmal; accelerated breathing, with occasional grunting, and

distress in the chest; quick pulse (100); thin nasal discharge;

dullness; wasting. If these be not relieved, the animal becomes

restless, manifests anxiety, breathes with rapidity, difficulty and

grunting; the ears hang, the nostrils widen, the eyes are hollow;

dyspnœa, debility, and atrophy end in death. Sometimes there is

tolerable health, while the flesh all wastes away, and nothing is left

but skin and bones. A _post-mortem_ examination shows inflammation and

thickening of the bronchia and lungs, and accumulation of worms, rolled

together with mucous in small balls.

TREATMENT.—Where there is any doubt of the existence of worms, treat as

for bronchitis. If disease is evidently from an accumulation of worms in

the bronchial tubes, the inhalation of chloroform is recommended,

repeated at lengthened intervals, according to the circumstances of the

case.

Tuberculosis—Consumption

DEFINITION.—This is a serious and almost always a chronic disease,

characterized by the formation of tubercles in the lungs, glands,

intestines, udder, etc., which, increasing in size and running together,

at length suppurate, and form abscesses in the substance of those

organs.

CAUSES.—Tuberculosis is caused by the Bacillus Tuberculosis which is

transmitted to a healthy animal by water, fodder, dust, etc., which has

come in contact with the nasal or uterine discharges of a diseased

animal. However bad ventilation and poor nourished predispose to the

disease.

SYMPTOMS.—Inward, feeble, painful, hoarse, gurgling cough, especially

after exertion; loss of appetite; irregularity of rumination;

disturbance of digestion; emaciation; loss of hair, especially of the

eye-brows; unthrifty appearance.

TREATMENT.—This disease is recognized as being incurable, and generally

fatal. In suspected cases, give A. A., and E.E., every two hours, until

the animal improves or the disease becomes thoroughly developed, in

which latter case the animal should be killed at once.

ACCESSORY TREATMENT.—The animal should be housed in a stable that is

comfortable and airy, but free from north and east winds, and kept apart

from other cattle; it should never be hurried, excited or alarmed; the

litter should be frequently changed and kept dry, and the skin

frequently rubbed and curry-combed to stimulate its perspiratory action.

PALO ALTO

* * * * *

HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY SALESMAN crossed the continent to visit Palo Alto,

the stock farm of

GOVERNOR STANFORD

THE HOME OF

SUNOL, ARION, PALO ALTO, &c.

After presenting proper credentials and exhibiting the list of prominent

stock owners using the Remedies, Mr. Reynolds, the superintendent, and

Mr. Marvin, the trainer, consented to his treating SUNOL (later owned by

Robert Bonner, Esq.,) and PALO ALTO for lameness.

After thoroughly testing the Remedies on these and other cases, Mr.

Stanford’s Business Manager and Attorney, Mr. Lathrop, placed an order

for HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY REMEDIES, probably the largest ever given for

Veterinary Medicines alone.

CHAPTER III.—PART II.

DISEASES OF THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION

Rumination

Oxen and sheep belong to the class of animals known as Ruminants, which

feed principally on the leaves and stalks of plants. The quantity of

food which they take at a time is very considerable; with a powerful

prehensile tongue, they rapidly gather up into their mouths thick and

long tufts of grass, which are only slightly masticated, and immediately

swallowed. Four stomachs—so called, although the fourth stomach is the

true stomach, and the other three are appendages of the œsophagus—are

employed in the process of digestion. The first—the paunch, or rumen—is

by far the larger of the four, occupying three-fourths of the abdominal

cavity. Its mucous membrane is rough with _papillæ_ or eminences, and

protected with a dense scaly _epithelium_. The second is called the

recticulum, or honey-comb bag, because the lining mucous membrane is so

disposed in folds as to form hexagonal spaces; within these spaces the

tubes of the glands may be seen. This bag is the smallest of the

digestive organs, is connected with the anterior part of the paunch,

with which it communicates freely, and to which, indeed, it may be

regarded as dependent. The third cavity is the _manyplies_, _maniplus_

or _omasum_; the first name being given on account of the many plies or

folds formed by the mucous membrane. These folds are of unequal breadth,

the principal ones being separated by others, which gradually diminish

in size. The surface is covered with _papillæ_, the folds being

flattened at the sides and somewhat pointed at the fore edges, forming

ridges and furrows. The contents of the manyplies are always dry; the

food sometimes becomes compressed into thin cakes between the folds, and

the epithelium manifests a tendency to peel off in shreds and adhere to

the pulpy mass of food. The fourth cavity—the _abomasum_ or _rennet_—is

the true stomach, discharging the same functions as the stomachs of

those animals that have only one such organ. It is considerably larger

than either the second or third stomach, although less than the first;

is lined with a thick villous coat, which is contracted into ridges and

furrows, somewhat like the omasum, and secretes an acid, solvent juice,

essential to the process of chymification. The act of rumination calls

into exercise the first three organs. The crushed food passes from the

œsophagus to the rumen; there it remains for some time, subject to the

action of heat, saliva, mucous and the secretion of the organ. The

tougher the food the longer it is retained. From the rumen the food

passes to the recticulum, where the operation of maceration, commenced

in the first stomach, is continued, the operation being facilitated by a

slow, churning movement characteristic of both organs. The recticulum

also appears to be the special receptacle of the fluid that is

swallowed, for this at once passes into it, without going into the first

stomach. The precise nature of the action of the secretions is

uncertain. It is supposed to be a fermentation; no doubt at all times a

certain proportion of gas is evolved from the food, but excessive

fermentation is indicative of disease (Hoove), and of rapid and

dangerous chemical change in the contents of the rumen. The pulpy mass,

to which the food has been reduced by the chemical change and churning

movement of the first two digestive cavities, is now prepared for

thorough mastication by the teeth, and for ultimate solution by the

digestive fluids. This mastication is _rumination_, or “chewing the

cud.” The return of the food to the mouth for this operation is effected

by the churning movement and by the contraction of the diaphragm and

abdominal muscles, which press upward against the rumen and recticulum.

The act of regurgitation is very evident to an observer, who sees a

large mass ascend from the paunch and distend the œsophagus with an

eructating noise. At the moment that a mass of the food passes into the

mouth, the accompanying liquid is swallowed into the first of the three

stomachs, leaving the solid portion to be slowly ground by the teeth.

The length of time thus taken varies with the toughness of the food.

Young and very old animals take longer to chew the cud than healthy

adults. When the food has been sufficiently comminuted it is again

swallowed, some of it into the first two stomachs; but, by a peculiar

mechanism of muscular contraction; the passage into the first is so

closed that the greater portion of it passes through the opening into

the third stomach, from which it goes into the abomasum. The function of

the omasum appears to be to regulate the descent of food into the

abomasum, though some means of assimilation may take place between its

many plies. The last stomach, as already stated, completes the process

of digestion.

Loss of the Cud

This is a mere symptom which accompanies many diseases, and even morbid

conditions, which scarcely deserve the name of disease, and will yield

with the removal of the ailment of which it is a mere symptom. Sometimes

it may be present when nothing else is sufficiently tangible to warrant

treatment, or it may continue after the disease otherwise seems to have

been removed.

TREATMENT.—In any case in which it appears to exist independently, or to

be the principal symptom, give twenty drops of the J. K., morning and

night, The “cud” will soon return.

Colic

This disease is not so dangerous as tympanitis, yet it may prove fatal

from bad treatment or neglect. It is generally the result of improper or

indigestible food, or food in too great quantity, or that to which the

animal is not accustomed. If colic comes on after indigestible food, it

is accompanied by constipation and thirst. Certain kinds of food, such

as grains, oats, decayed turnips or cabbages, or dry food, are liable to

induce it, or it may arise from exposure to cold when the body is warm,

or from cold drinking when the body is heated.

It consists in severe paroxysms of pain in the bowels, and, if

neglected, is liable to cause inflammatory disease of the digestive

organs.

SYMPTOMS.—Sudden manifestation of pain in the belly, by uneasiness,

pawing the ground, striking the belly with the hind legs or horns, often

lying down and then rising, grinding the teeth, and moaning. When caused

by wind, the belly is much swelled on the left side, and there is

frequent passage of flatus. The animal’s back is arched, and she

frequently looks at her flanks, scrapes with her fore feet, and kicks

with the hind ones. All these symptoms increase, until she expires amid

groans and grinding of the teeth. Or the following may be noticed:

The animal refuses to eat, looks to its sides, paws the ground, kicks

against the body with the hind feet, lies down, rises again, and

continues these movements till unable longer to keep upon its feet.

Often the animal falls down so violently that it seems as though the

four legs were suddenly struck away from under it, or he squats down

like a dog upon his hind quarters, rolls over, lies upon his back for a

time, with the legs stretched upward, and generally acts as if frantic.

The horns, ears and feet are alternately hot and cold. The animal

suffers from thirst and constipation, the longer the constipation the

more acute the pain; the paunch is much swollen. If recovery takes

place, the symptoms are gradually mitigated, and then entirely

disappear. On the other hand, if the pains get worse and become more

frequent, the bowels become inflamed, and if the pains, under these

circumstances, suddenly disappear, the inflammation terminates in

_gangrene_ (mortification), and the animal dies.

TREATMENT.—The F. F., will almost invariably be found successful. Give a

dose of twenty drops every half hour until relieved. If not better after

a few doses, and should there be fever, alternate the A. A., the same

dose, with the F. F., at the same intervals. As the animal seems

relieved, or partially so, give the remedies at longer intervals.

Constipation

This is rarely of grave consequence in cattle, and when it exists, is

usually a symptom of some other disease. When present, a dose of twenty

drops of the J. K., given morning and night, will soon set all right

again. If there is suspicion of some inflammatory condition lurking in

the system, the A. A., in like doses, will have the like effect.

Tympanitis—Hoove—Blown—Drum-Belly—Grain-Sick—Heaving of the Flanks—Maw

Bound

This disorder—of very frequent occurrence among cattle, though not

belonging exclusively to them—is of two kinds; one due to the evolution

of gas from the food taken, the other to the impaction of the food. In

one case the gas produces enormous inflation of the rumen, or first of

the four stomachs possessed by cattle, in the other distension.

DIAGNOSIS.—To Mr. Surmon we are indebted for the following table of

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN DISTENSION FROM GAS AND FOOD

──────────────────────────────────┬──────────────────────────────────

DISTENTION FROM GAS │ DISTENTION FROM IMPACTED FOOD

──────────────────────────────────┼──────────────────────────────────

The left flank, on pressure, feels│The left flank, on pressure, feels

soft, elastic and yielding to the │solid; does not yield readily to

fingers. On percussion, sounds │the fingers. On percussion, or on

hollow and drum-like. │being struck, sounds dull.

Frequent belching; the wind which │No belching or eructation of wind.

escapes has an offensive smell. │

Respiration quick, short and │Respiration not much interfered

puffing. │with.

Position standing; head stretched │Position lying down, and is with

forward, unable to move; moans, │difficulty induced to move;

and appears in great distress; │looking dull and listless.

eyes red and staring. │

CAUSES.—When cattle, especially such as have had poor and scanty food,

are turned into a rich pasture, or stray into the fields of lucern,

etc., they will often eat ravenously, and take more than they can

digest. Wet grass in warm weather, or fodder that has become heated in

consequence of being heaped together while damp, may also be too freely

eaten. The consequence is that the rumen is overloaded, and the

contents, under the influence of warmth and moisture, ferment and evolve

what is at first carburetted hydrogen; and subsequently sulphuretted

hydrogen; or, if there be no formation of gas, the food remains solid

and undigested. Drinking excessively of cold water, eating too much

bran, chaff, unboiled potatoes, uncrushed oats, grains, boiled roots or

turnips, may cause the same condition.

SYMPTOMS.—These may appear suddenly, but always soon after the animal

has been feeding, generally on returning from the field; they may,

however, occur in the stable. The animal ceases to eat or ruminate, is

swollen or “blown” over the whole belly, but particularly at the flanks

or left side, where the distended stomach lies. The rumen is enormously

swollen, the pillars of the œsophagus are tightly closed, thus

preventing the escape of gas; and the greater the distention the firmer

is the closure of the œsophagus. The swelling yields when pressed by the

finger, and gives forth a hollow sound, like that from a drum when it is

struck. There are also sour and noisy belchings of wind; the cow does

not move, moans, and is evidently in great distress. The distended rumen

presses on the diaphragm and impedes the action of the heart and lungs,

causing shortness and difficulty of breathing; the nostrils are widely

dilated, and there is a threatening of suffocation. As the disease

advances, the pulse becomes hard, full, and quicker than before; the

eyes are bloodshot, glazed, fixed and prominent; the mouth is hot and

full to dripping of frothy slaver; the tongue hangs out; the veins of

the neck and chest are distended with blood; the poor beast crouches,

with its back bent up; the legs are drawn under the body; the tail is

curved upward; the anus, which is closed, protrudes. The body is now

covered with cold sweat; the animal stands in one place, continually

moans or grunts, trembles, totters, falls, struggles violently, ejects

from mouth and nose sour fluid mixed with solid food, and at length

sinks and dies, either from suffocation or rupture of the stomach.

TREATMENT.—This is the same whether the distention is from gas or

impacted food. F.F. may be given a dose every quarter or half hour. We

give the method of puncturing, which, however, need never be resorted to

if the F.F. be administered.

_Puncturing._—Relief is sometimes very urgently required, and this is

best afforded either by plunging a trocar into the left side, or by

passing a probang down the œsophagus into the paunch. If the trocar is

used, let the canula of the instrument be ten or twelve inches long, so

as to prevent the paunch from slipping away from the canula and causing

delay, and perhaps further danger. _Chloride of Lime_ is valuable after

the animal is somewhat relieved by the use of the trocar; about two

drachms should be mixed with a quart of water. In case of immediate

relief being imperative, and a trocar not being at hand, a long, sharp

pointed pen-knife may be used for puncturing. The place for puncturing

is midway between the hip and ribs, where the distended rumen is

prominent; the direction is inward and downward. The puncture will be

followed by an outrush of gas, fluid, and even portions of food. A

quill, or some other tube, must be ready to be inserted in the hole

immediately after the knife is withdrawn, otherwise the wound will

close. If nothing tubular be at hand, a smooth piece of stick must be

put in, or anything else that will serve the purpose of keeping open the

wound till the gas has escaped. The danger of this operation is not from

the wound itself, but from the escape of the contents of the paunch into

the abdomen, which would cause peritonitis, or from piercing the spleen

or kidney. The operation can only be regarded as a rough one, to be

adopted in case of great emergency.

When distension has ceased and matters have to some extent resumed their

ordinary course, the animal should remain some hours without food or

water. The food afterwards should be sparing and suitable.

J. K., should be administered two or three times daily until the animal

is fully recovered.

Diarrhea, Scouring

Diarrhea is more common in old cattle and calves than in those of middle

age, where it is generally of little importance, soon correcting itself,

especially in the spring, when herds are first turned into green fields.

The usual causes are: decayed cabbages, bad grains, or other improper

food, or impure water; sudden change to rich pastures; the use of

purgative medicines; exposure to cold and wet, acrid bile, sudden change

from dry to wet weather, or severe exertion in hot, dry weather.

SYMPTOMS.—The disease comes on slowly, with staring coat, shaking,

arched back, fore legs drawn together, cold legs, ears and horns, weak

pulse, tucked up belly, bowels rather looser than usual, deficient

appetite. The animal becomes thinner, more depressed and dull; little or

no milk is given, and the bowels are purged to an alarming extent. This

purging may stop and then reappear to end fatally, or terminate in

dysentery.

TREATMENT.—We should, of course, give food not so loosening in its

character and the F.F., a dose of twenty drops two or three times per

day, will usually be found quite sufficient. In extreme cases, or in

case of failure with this remedy, the I.I., may be alternated with it,

at the same or even more frequent intervals.

Diarrhea or Cholera or “Skitt” in Young Calves

Is quite common, and not unfrequently dangerous. In its more dangerous

form it appears the first or second day, and it is then presumably

caused by the feverish or unhealthy condition of the mother’s milk. In

its natural condition, this first milk is laxative and intended to act

as a removal of the first passages in the new born calf.

When the milk is very rich in butter, as in the Jersey cattle, it

becomes excessively laxative, especially during the period of the milk

fever, or the first three days after calving. The passages are noticed

to be very frequent, loose, liquid, or even watery, with weakness and

rapid wasting; the legs and ears become cold, and, in extreme cases,

short breath and panting with the tongue out.

TREATMENT.—The dam should always have a dose of A.A., soon after

calving, and this should be continued, a dose at least three times per

day for four days, or until the usual danger from milk fever is passed.

If, however, the dam has had no treatment, give her a dose alternately

of the A.A., and of the F.F., at intervals of three hours, to change the

feverish or unhealthy nature of the milk, as well as to give the calf

the Remedy through the mother’s milk.

Give also to the calf a dose of five drops of F.F., once in three hours

if the case is urgent, or three times per day if but slight, and

gradually omit as the calf improves. If the F.F., fails, give I.I., a

dose every fifteen minutes or half hour at first until relieved, then

once in three hours.

Dysentery—Johnes Disease

This is a disease which has existed on certain farms for years without

either the owners or Veterinarians knowing what it was, and it is only

within the last few years that we have known that it was caused by a

definite disease germ.

SYMPTOMS.—This disease usually attacks whole herds rather than

individual animals. At first there is loss of condition and weight with

rough coat and dry skin, then diarrhea is noticed, the discharges being

brown and like molasses. There is no fever, but the animal has little

appetite and keeps getting thinner and weaker all the time until it

finally dies from exhaustion. The course of the disease is long—from two

months to three years—and is always fatal.

TREATMENT.—In suspected cases give F.F., twenty drops every three hours,

until the animal improves or the disease becomes thoroughly developed in

which latter case the animal should be killed at once, and the place

disinfected as given under abortion on page 122.

Stomatitis

This is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the lips, cheeks and

gums and occasionally also of the palate and tongue. It may occur as one

of the symptoms of a disease of the digestive organs or general disease;

or may be caused by thorns, sharp teeth, rough food, poisonous plants,

mercury, fungi, etc.

SYMPTOMS.—The membrane of the mouth is red and inflamed and the animal

does not eat because of the pain in chewing. In some forms of this

disease there are also swellings and tenderness about the pasterns and

cracks and scars on the udder and teats, which makes the disease look

very much like foot and mouth disease. However in foot and mouth

disease, the whole herd and also hogs and sheep are attacked, while with

stomatitis only a few cattle are affected.

TREATMENT.—Give C.C., in the morning, and I.I., at night, also wash the

mouth with HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH HAZEL and water half and half. Give

plenty of clean pure water, and only soft or liquid food, such as

gruels, mashes, etc.

There is also a form of this disease which attacks calves (calf

diphtheria) usually under six weeks old. The mouth is covered with

yellow-gray patches and there is high fever, swelled glands about the

throat, and great weakness. The treatment is the same as given above,

except that as the disease is contagious, the calf must be separated

from the other animals and everything that it has come in contact with

disinfected.

Boulimia—Excessive Appetite

An unusual increase of appetite is a symptom of a morbid state of the

constitution. Though the animal eats largely, greedily, and even shows a

disposition for uncommon food, which he takes gluttonously, he may

become more and more emaciated. Suitable food should be given; at the

same time it should be fresh, and not in excessive quantities, although

there is a desire for it. Fresh, cold water should also be given.

Impaction of the Omasum Fardel Bound—Dry Murrain

The first three stomachs of ruminants do not secrete fluids and are

dependent for their action on saliva and swallowed liquids. Hence if an

animal has not had sufficient water or a fever has dried up the saliva,

the food may become dry and caked in the folds of the third stomach.

SYMPTOMS.—There is loss of cud and appetite, the right flank is full and

hard on pressure. In slight cases the animal may remain standing, but

usually is lying on the left side with nose against the right flank.

There is constipation alternating with diarrhea. The legs and horns are

cold and the coat “hide bound.” These are the usual symptoms, but

sometimes the animal becomes frantic, and rising rushes blindly about

often doing itself considerable damage.

TREATMENT.—Give A.A., and J.K., alternately every two hours. In addition

to this give a plentiful supply of liquids, such as linseed tea, 2 to 3

buckets daily; also enemas of warm water with a little salt are often

helpful. During convalescence the diet should consist of sloppy food

with plenty of water and salt.

Irregular Teeth

May be looked for if an animal presents the following symptoms: The

beast becoming thinner gradually, and eating less food than usual;

slaver dribbling from the mouth along with half-chewed food, especially

while the cow is cudding; she is “hoven” or bloated at different times;

a bad smell comes from the mouth, arising from ulceration of the side of

the cheek, caused by irregular teeth.

TREATMENT.—The mouth must be carefully examined, and all long or

irregular teeth must be shortened and smoothed by means of the

tooth-rasp.

Gastritis—Gast ro-Enteritis—Inflammation of the Stomach

DEFINITION.—Gastritis is inflammation of the mucous membrane of the

abomasum, extending, generally, into the duodenum (gastro-enteritis). It

is not of unfrequent occurrence, and usually accompanies enteritis. (See

next section). It is a very dangerous disease, and frequently terminates

fatally.

CAUSES.—They are the same as those of enteritis—improper food, musty

hay, acrid plants, impure water, etc.

SYMPTOMS.—The beast is heavy, dejected, restless, scrapes the ground

with the fore feet, strikes the belly with the hind feet, grinds the

teeth, looks around at its flanks and belly, groans, lows; the look is

sad, the eyes red; the ears, horns and feet cold; the muzzle dry; the

abdomen somewhat swollen and extremely tender; there is diarrhea and

vomiting, and cessation or deterioration of milk, which, when drawn, is

thin, yellowish, stringy, and irritates the udder; sometimes it is

reddish and offensive. Spasms and colic are occasionally so intense as

to make the animal furious. M. Gelle has observed that the most constant

symptoms of gastritis are: loss of appetite, arrest of rumination, and

abnormal condition of the tongue. If the inflammation be intense, the

tongue appears to be contracted, straighter and more rounded than usual,

red at the point and along the edges, and the papillæ are elevated and

injected. In some intense cases, when several of the viscera are

involved, the tongue is yellow or green.

TREATMENT.—A.A., is the first and principal remedy, and may be given, at

first, a dose every half hour or hour. As the animal improves, the

intervals between the doses may be prolonged, and only at the

conclusion, when the animal has become free from the more active

symptoms, or they have subsided, the J.K., may be given for the

remaining debility of the digestive organs.

No solid food should be given until convalescence sets in. Small

quantities of fluids may be given in the form of oatmeal or flour gruel,

or water.

Enteritis—Inflammation of the Bowels

DEFINITION.—Inflammation of the intestines, throughout a greater or less

extent of their course, and involving all the coats of the intestines or

only the mucous lining.

It generally attacks cattle of middle age and robust health; sometimes

appears as an epidemic in certain districts, and seems to be most

prevalent in hot summers.

CAUSES.—Sudden exposure to cold, or drinking cold water when heated;

eating acrid or unwholesome plants; mildewed food; too stimulating diet;

drinking impure water; sudden change from poor to rich food; colds,

injuries inflicted on the abdomen, the presence of a large number of

worms in the intestines; badly managed colic, continuing more than

twenty hours, and ending in enteritis; animals inflicted with colic may

so injure themselves by falling or rolling over that this complaint may

be the consequence.

SYMPTOMS.—Shivering, dullness, extreme restlessness; frequent lying down

and rising again, with signs of pain in the bowels; hard, small and

rapid pulse; quickened breathing; hot mouth and violent thirst; red and

protruding eyes; pawing and kicking; frequent efforts to urinate, but no

water, or only a few drops, are discharged; the pain, which is most

intense and constant, is increased by pressure and moving about. The

hair is rough, the loins tender, the abdomen swollen on the left side,

and incapable of bearing pressure; the bowels are obstinately confined;

the fæces hard and glazed with slime; but occasionally liquid dung is

forced with dreadful agony through the hardened mass obstructing the

lower bowel, and all previous symptoms become aggravated. If the latter

disease lasts a few days, and there is a sudden cessation of pain, this

is a sign that _gangrene_ (mortification) has set in; the feet and ears

become quite cold, and after a while the animal falls heavily, struggles

convulsively for a brief period, and dies.

DIAGNOSIS.—As the symptoms of this violent complaint resemble, in many

respects, those of colic, it may be well to point out the distinctions

between the one and the other.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN COLIC AND ENTERITIS

──────────────────────────────────┬──────────────────────────────────

COLIC │ ENTERITIS

──────────────────────────────────┼──────────────────────────────────

The attack is sudden. │The disorder generally comes on

│gradually.

The pain is intermittent. │The pain is incessant and

│increases.

The pain is relieved by friction │The pain is aggravated by friction

and motion. │and movement.

Debility is not a characteristic │Debility is very characteristic.

till near the end of the disorder.│

TREATMENT.—A.A., should be given at first, a dose every fifteen minutes,

and after an hour, a dose every thirty minutes, and after three or four

hours, a dose once an hour, which should be continued until the disease

yields; only should there be considerable gas or bloating, or extreme

pain, a dose or two of F.F., may be interposed.

ACCESSORY MEANS.—Hot water is a valuable adjunct in the treatment of the

disease. It may be applied externally by steeping cloths in the water,

and closely and compactly, but not too tightly applying them to the body

and securing them by belts. Hot water may also be given, either as a

drench or as an injection. The water must not be so hot as to scald the

animal. The administration of A.A., as stated above, and hot water

applied copiously to the body of the animal locally, and occasionally in

doses of from a half-pint to a pint internally, will constitute the

principal features of the treatment at the commencement of an attack. If

applications of hot water are used, the animal should be afterwards

rubbed dry and well covered with suitable dry cloths.

If discovered in time, an inflammation of the digestive organs will

generally yield to the prompt use of the above remedies. Linseed tea, or

oatmeal gruel, will form the most suitable diet.

Peritonitis—Inflammation of the Peritoneum

Inflammation of the membrane which invests the abdominal viscera is very

similar to enteritis. It is rapid in its course, generally ending

fatally in six or eight days.

CAUSES.—Lesions, contusions, and wounds of the walls of the abdomen;

surgical operations, castration, sudden cold, infection while calving.

SYMPTOMS.—Inflammatory fever; the animal shows great sensitiveness when

the abdomen is touched, shrinking when any one approaches it, or flexing

the painful part when it is touched; looks around at the seat of pain;

generally there is swelling of the belly and tightness about the flanks.

The beast rarely lies down, or, if it attempts it, rolls on its back;

when standing, it keeps the extremities near the centre of gravity, and

bends the back downward. The abdomen is hot, the ears and hoofs cold;

the pulse rapid, short and wiry. The termination may be in acute

ascites, in adhesions of the peritoneum, or in gangrene, the latter

being recognized by sudden cessation of pain, small, weak and

intermittent pulse, and rapid prostration.

TREATMENT.—The cause of the infection must first be removed, and this

may require the assistance of a Veterinarian. A. A. is the proper

medicine and should be given fifteen drops every half hour as long as

there is any hope of a favorable termination. It will do all the good

that any medicine can do.

Flukes, or Rottenness

This term is applied to the condition caused by the presence of fluke

worms in the liver or bile ducts, where they sometimes exist in large

numbers, causing great swelling of the liver.

CAUSE.—The disease is chiefly developed in low districts, and after damp

seasons. The worms are taken in with the food and developed in the

liver.

SYMPTOMS.—Depression, sadness, inertness, loss of appetite; watery, red,

yellowish, purulent eyes; yellowish tint of all parts not covered with

hair; fœtid smell of nose and mouth; hard skin; dull, erect hair;

irregularity of excrement, which is white, watery and fœtid.

TREATMENT.—The principal remedies are A. A., at first, and then, after a

day, alternate C. C., with the A. A., a dose once in three or four

hours.

CHAPTER IV.—PART II.

DISEASES OF THE URINARY AND REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEMS

Suppressed or Scanty Urination

This is usually the result of some disease of the kidneys, or a mere

symptom of other morbid condition, or it may arise from a paralytic

condition of the bladder itself. This condition will generally be

promptly relieved by giving a few doses of H. H., twenty drops, at

intervals of four, six or twelve hours, according to the urgency of the

case.

Inflammation of the Kidneys, Nephritis

This disease has many symptoms in common with cystitis, or inflammation

of the bladder, and its treatment scarcely differs. It occasionally

occurs in cattle, and may be excited by blows upon the loins, calculi,

or small stones formed in the kidneys, or by eating poisonous plants, or

the use of strong allopathic medicines.

SYMPTOMS.—The animal brings the fore legs together, bends the back

downward, and presses with pain when endeavoring to pass water; the

loins are hot, more so than the remainder of the body, sometimes even

burning. The rectum is hot, dung scanty and passed with pain. There is a

great desire to pass water, but only a few drops escape, which is at

first limpid, then thick, and of a deep red color. The gait is stiff,

appetite gone, no rumination, but great thirst.

TREATMENT.—Give H. H., a dose of twenty drops, every two, three or four

hours, according to the intensity of the disease.

Inflammation of the Bladder, Cystitis

This disease is not so common in cattle as in horses, but may be

occasioned by cold or injuries in the region of the loins. It is

manifested by the following.—

SYMPTOMS.—The animal constantly keeps the back arched; the walk is

stiff, and the animal, when standing, leans against something on one

side or the other; frequent effort to pass water, but to little purpose,

as only a small quantity, of deep red color, is passed at a time. The

bowels are bound, evacuations scanty and passed with pain. There is no

appetite or rumination, but intense thirst; the eyes are prominent, and

the countenance evinces great distress.

TREATMENT.—The H.H., will be found perfectly appropriate, and may be

repeated, in doses of twenty drops, every three or four hours, until

entire relief is experienced.

Hematuria—Discharge of Blood with the Urine

The discharge of blood with the urine is more apt to be a symptom of

some other disease, such as Inflammation of the Kidneys or Bladder, or

Texas Fever, than to be a disease in itself, although it may occur as

such.

SYMPTOMS.—Hematuria usually attacks cattle at pasture on low marshy

land. At first the quantity of blood is small, but it gradually

increases, and it often forms clots which stop up the passages, causing

retention of urine and even bursting of the bladder. The animal grows

weak and pale, and sometimes drops of blood are seen on the hairs around

the opening.

In some cases the animal appears to recover, but in a little while

another attack occurs. The disease usually ends fatally, but only after

about two years.

TREATMENT.—Although this disease is usually fatal, it is not known to be

contagious; therefore we advise making every effort to save the animal.

Give H.H., twenty drops every four hours at first, and as the disease

mends, night and morning.

Parturition

The natural period of gestation is about nine calendar months, or from

270 to 285 days. For a month or three weeks before the time of

calving—or, if poorly in condition, two months—the cow should be allowed

to dry; otherwise the unnourished calf will be of little value when it

is born. If the cow be milked too long, there is also danger of bringing

down the new milk and causing puerperal fever, or inflammation of the

udder. On the other hand, a cow should not be fed too high. For some

weeks, as the time approaches, the food should be limited in quantity,

and be given more frequently, otherwise the rumen will be so distended

with food or gas as to press upon the uterus, alter the position of the

fetus, and thus render parturition difficult.

Cows, when well attended to, calve very easily and require little

assistance. For a few days there is a mucous discharge from the vagina;

the animal is restless and uneasy; groans, and breathes more quickly;

the udder rapidly enlarges; the abdomen drops. The cow should be allowed

to be quiet; it is a cruel and dangerous practice to rouse and drive her

about. The restlessness soon increases; the cow keeps getting up and

lying down; at last she remains on the ground, and, if all goes well,

the calf is soon born. The expulsive pains cause the exit of a

considerable quantity of fluid, or of a pouch full of serum. When this

pouch bursts, the pains increase and the calf is expelled. If there be

any difficulty, the fetus may be drawn forward during a pain. The cord

breaks of itself, at some distance from the umbilicus. The _afterbirth_,

_cleansing_, or _placenta_, is not always passed at once; it may remain

for several hours partly or wholly within the womb, causing some danger

of fatal consequences; but manual interference should not be allowed

till the action of medicines has been found ineffectual for its removal.

TREATMENT.—The general treatment has been sufficiently indicated in the

foregoing. If the labor be tedious, a dose of A.A., will often help.

After two hours, another dose might be given; and in some extreme cases,

when the pains have nearly ceased, a dose of the G.G.; will often help.

The animal should be kept in a roomy, well-aired place, free from

superfluous litter, covered immediately after calving if the least

danger be apprehended; fed sparingly for some days, principally on

mashes and small quantities of hay.

The udder should be frequently and well stripped of its contents.

Failure to come in Heat—Sterility

Failure to breed in the cow may occur in two different forms—first

impotence, in which the cow fails to come in heat, and second, true

sterility, in which, although she came in heat and was bred the service

proved unfruitful.

The first of these cases may be due to some malformation of the sexual

organs in which case it is incurable; but it is more often due to

insufficient or over-feed, or lack of exercise, or over-work, or some

depressing disease.

TREATMENT.—Correct the exercise and feeding, and give G.G., every night

for a week, or, if the case is urgent, a dose morning and night, and

then a dose daily until the result is manifest.

TRUE STERILITY may also be caused by malformations and be incurable, but

is more often caused by other things such as a catarrhal condition of

the vagina—Leucorrhea or to ardent heat, or insufficient food, or

debility from disease.

THE TREATMENT for Leucorrhea or a catarrhal condition of the organs,

which may be known by a constant or frequent discharge from the vagina,

give G.G., each morning and J.K., at night, and continue this for

several weeks, or until she is again served.

In addition dissolve one cake of fresh compressed yeast in a pint of

tepid water, then after a few hours, add another pint. Then wash the

vagina well with soap and water and use the dissolved yeast as a douche,

this should be done daily for several days.

Where there is an excess of excitement, too ardent or too frequent, or

even constant heat, give at first, H.H., a dose morning and night, for

two or three weeks, then a dose or two of G.G., and the result will

usually be satisfactory.

Where there is unthriftiness or want of good condition, correct the

feeding and give G.G., morning and J.K., at night.

Cleaning after Calving

In some cases, from torpidity of the calf-bed, the afterbirth is

retained, which may result in very serious consequences.

A dose of twenty drops of G.G., will soon cause its expulsion and the

healthy cleaning of the animal. It may be repeated, at intervals of four

hours, if necessary.

Flooding after Calving

Some blood is necessarily lost after calving, and it is only when the

amount is excessive or continues some time, or threatens to weaken or

destroy the animal, that the term flooding can be applied to it. It may

be occasioned by injuries received during the process of delivery, or

from the calf-bed not sufficiently contracting from atony or want of

vigor or that organ.

The symptoms need not be described; any continuous flowing from the

bearing, before or after delivery, and especially after the passage of

the cleansing, should receive medication.

TREATMENT.—The cow should be kept quiet and be permitted to lie down,

and twenty drops of the G.G., be given every hour, or even every half

hour, in urgent cases.

Cold injections, cold, wet cloths, applied to the loins, or cold water

poured upon the belly, are not necessary, and are not without danger.

Sore Teats

The teats crack into sores, which become painful, and discharge, the

contents mingling with the milk; the pain occasioned during milking

renders the cow restive, and soon tends to make her vicious and to keep

back her milk; garget, hence, is apt to arise from the milk remaining in

the udder and causing irritation.

TREATMENT.—HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY OIL is sovereign for SORE TEATS. In bad

cases, wash the teats carefully with warm water; and after drying with a

soft cloth, apply the VETERINARY OIL, which repeat morning and night,

simply oiling the sore places or cracks. Give also I.I., morning and

night; and after three or four days the J.K., unless indeed the trouble

has not been quite cured by the use of the I.I., and the VETERINARY OIL.

Garget, or Inflammation of the Udder

This is most liable to arise after the first calving, and may be traced

to exposure to cold and damp, especially if the cow is in good

condition, or from not milking the cow clean, so that the milk remains

and causes irritation, or, in some cases, the bag may be wounded by

lying upon it.

SYMPTOMS.—A portion of the bag becomes hot, painful and swollen; then

hard lumps or “cakes” can be felt in the teats, or in one portion of the

bag; other parts of it become affected in the same way; the pulse is

full, quick and hard; breathing is quickened; the mouth and horns hot;

bowels bound, and other symptoms of fever are present. If the disease is

allowed to go on, the fever becomes more severe; the cow does not eat or

chew the cud; the swelling, previously hard, becomes soft from the

formation of matter; the milk becomes mixed with matter, and, in some

cases, with blood. If the disease is not arrested or matter is not let

out, it will spread, making its way slowly to the skin, through which it

at last bursts, leaving deep, long ulcers, which heal with difficulty,

and in many cases a portion of the udder is lost, as regards its power

to produce milk. If this result is avoided by judicious treatment, some

hardness may remain, which requires time to remove.

TREATMENT.—Keep the udder well milked out, and give the A.A., in

alternation with C.C., and apply HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY OIL. This will

generally disperse the heat, hardness and inflammation. But should

suppuration have come on, and the abscess point showing a soft spot,

lance it, and continue C.C., and VETERINARY OIL, morning and night.

Dropping after Calving—Milk Fever—Puerperal Fever

This disease is of frequent occurrence and quite liable to be fatal,

unless under proper homeopathic treatment. It is much more prevalent

some seasons than others, owing, doubtless, to peculiar atmospheric

conditions, and is more malignant some seasons than others.

There are certain causes which predispose to this disease; thus fat;

stall-fed cows are more liable to it than poor or lean ones; the

complaint is more common in the variable weather of early spring and

late fall; a cow once having the disease is more liable to a return than

others. The exciting causes are: exposure to cold and wet; driving the

cow a long journey too soon; giving too much or too rich food soon after

calving.

SYMPTOMS.—This fever usually begins shortly after calving, usually

within twenty-four hours; if three or four days pass over, the cow may

be considered safe from an attack. The earlier symptoms are: the cow

refuses her food or only eats a little of it; she is depressed, hangs

her head and looks dull; the horns are hot; the nose, instead of being

damp with healthy dew, becomes hot and dry; the urine is scanty; the

bowels are confined, or, if moved, the dung is hard and lumpy; the pulse

is quicker and fuller than in health; the breathing is quickened and

attended with heaving at the flanks.

To these warning symptoms are added, with more or less rapidity, the

more formidable ones, which are often first to attract the attention of

the owner. The milk is reduced in quantity or entirely stopped; the eyes

glisten and look bright and staring; the white of the eye is covered

with numerous red streaks, or is of a leaden color; the eye-balls are

thrust forward in their sockets, and give the cow a somewhat wild and

anxious expression; the hind legs seem weak, and are separated a little

from each other; she appears to stand uneasily upon them, resting for a

time on one foot and then changing to the other; this paddling and

shifting from one leg to another continues as the difficulty of standing

increases, until the animal supports herself by leaning against the

stall; she does not chew the cud; all discharge from the bearing is

stopped; the calf is neglected; the pulse becomes slower than before,

and the breathing more difficult; the udder is hard and swelled, and

little or no milk can be drawn from it; gradually becoming worse, the

weakness in the hind legs increases, so they can no longer support her;

she staggers and sways about, falling, at length, heavily on the ground;

she struggles, tries to rise again, and may or may not succeed, but in

either case soon loses the power of rising, and lies helpless upon the

ground. In this stage of the complaint the symptoms vary. In some cases

we have the following: The cow tosses her head from side to side,

writhes her body and lashes her tail, struggles, stretches out her hind

legs, moans and bellows, and seems to suffer great pain. The breathing

is also difficult and labored; the skin covered with clammy sweat; the

paunch enormously swollen from accumulated gas. Unless this swelling

subsides, the breathing becomes more difficult and labored; the pulse

more rapid and oppressed, so as scarcely to be counted; the legs very

cold; pain is worse; fetid gas rises from the stomach, and death ensues.

In other cases the foregoing symptoms are absent, or exist only in a

slight degree; and we have the following: The cow lies stretched out at

full length on her side, or her head is brought to the opposite side,

with the nose towards the shoulder and the chin on the ground; or the

head is twisted directly backward, with the nose held out and the horns

upon the shoulder, in the most awkward manner. The eyes are dim and

glassy; the pupils are dilated, rounded, and do not contract at the

approach of light; the ears drop; the mouth is partly open; the lower

jaw drops if the head is raised; she has not the power to hold up her

head; she has lost the sense of feeling, and can scarcely swallow, if at

all; difficult, rattling breathing; pulse weak, slow and intermittent,

or even imperceptible; horns, legs and surface cold and chilly; swelling

of the belly increases; udder swelled, hard and sometimes red on the

outside; in some cases dung and urine suppressed. All these symptoms

become worse by degrees, and unless relieved, death ensues generally

within two days from the attack, sometimes in a few hours.

TREATMENT.—The symptoms of this disease appear so suddenly, and run so

rapid a course, that if the disease is prevailing, or there is reason

from any cause to apprehend it, the cow should be watched about the time

of calving, and a dose or two, of fifteen drops, of A.A., should be

given soon after. This will act as a preventive, and arrest any

premonitions of the disease, and we would counsel its continuance; at

least an occasional dose, morning and night, for two or three days. It

will favor the early and feverless production of milk.

Should the disease have made its appearance with evident fever, unequal

warmth, bloating, suppressed discharge from the bearing, etc., give

A.A., a dose of twenty drops, every two or three hours, until the

disease is arrested.

Only in the last extremity, with labored breathing, extreme bloating,

and entire loss or rapid failure of strength, the I.I., may be

alternated with the A.A., at intervals of two hours, in doses of twenty

drops, until the system rallies, when the two medicines may be continued

at longer intervals.

NURSING AND CARE.—The cow should be placed in a clean, roomy stall, so

as to be allowed to rise and to be attended with facility; laid on

clean, dry straw, no dung allowed to remain, and be comfortably clothed,

according to the season. The milk should be frequently drawn off and the

udder hand rubbed. She should be with the fore part of her body higher

than the hinder part, or on a level, with her legs under her in a

natural position. She must be on her side and supported by bundles of

straw, and on no account be allowed to lie out full stretched, in which

position she will become worse and surely die. Small quantities of warm

gruel are best for food.

There have lately come into vogue “Milk Fever Outfits” by means of which

the udder is filled with sterilized air. While there can be no objection

to this treatment either alone or in conjunction with the A.A. In our

experience the A.A. alone is quite sufficient.

Abortion

Abortion or premature birth may occur from three different causes:

1—ACCIDENTAL ABORTION.—Caused by a blow; strain; slipping on a wet

floor, over-strain from pulling a heavy load, etc.

2—ENZOOTIC ABORTION.—Due to some infectious disease of the mother.

3—CONTAGIOUS ABORTION.—A distinct disease which causes the death and

expulsion of the fetus or its expulsion in a feeble state prior to the

normal period.

SYMPTOMS OF THREATENED ABORTION.—In the first three months of pregnancy,

the appearance of a bloody, watery or mucous discharge from the vagina.

In the later months, uneasiness, swelling, heat and tenderness about the

udder; secretion of milk; and straining as if in labor.

TREATMENT OF THREATENED ABORTION.—Give fifteen drops of G.G., every six

hours, and the dose may be repeated two or three or more times should

the threatening symptoms continue after the first or even the second

dose has expended its action.

This interval should elapse between doses, as too rapid ones may even

defeat the object, by over-excitement of the system, while a single dose

often arrests an abortion if permitted to expand its action.

After a cow has actually aborted, it is almost impossible to tell

whether it occurred from contagious abortion or from some other cause,

so the safe thing to do is to act as if it had been contagious abortion.

TREATMENT OF CONTAGIOUS ABORTION.—The fetus and membranes should be

burned. The premises occupied by the sick animal should be disinfected

as follows: Remove all bedding and dirt possible and spray all available

parts of barn with 3% formalin or 5% carbolic acid solution. Apply white

wash containing 1 lb. chloride of lime to 3 gallons of whitewash,

scatter quicklime on floor and gutters.

The animal which has aborted should receive daily a vaginal irrigation

of two gallons of warm water containing 2% lysol until the vaginal

discharge stops. The external parts about the vagina, including the hips

and tail, should be washed thoroughly with soap and water and then with

the lysol solution as above, twice daily. This should also be done to

all exposed pregnant animals in the herd, being careful not to use the

same cloth, solution, bucket or attendant, for the well animals that was

used for the sick one.

Also give G.G., at intervals of six hours.

Falling and Protrusion of the Womb

After a difficult labor, or when manual help has been injudiciously

applied, the womb may be everted or turned inside out. The organ then is

partly or quite protruded and appears as a deep red mass covered with

smooth red bodies (glands).

In order to replace, the cow should stand with the hind feet higher than

the fore feet, the hand of the operator should be wrapped with a soft

cloth soaked in warm milk and smeared with HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY OIL,

and _gentle pressure_ should be _continuously and carefully_ applied to

the mass until it gradually returns to its proper position. Dry or

inflamed parts should be washed in warm milk and kept well anointed with

the VETERINARY OIL. Give also A.A., at first every three hours, and

later alternate G.G., with the A.A., a dose once in six hours.

Where CASES of SIMPLE PROTRUSION OF THE ORGAN occur without

retroversion, give A.A., morning and G.G., at night, feeding light

easily digested food, which will be effective.

CHAPTER V.—PART II.

MECHANICAL INJURIES

Burns

Injury to the skin and sub-cutaneous tissue by any hot body requires

careful treatment, not only because of the local damage, but also

because of possible injury to the system.

The air must be excluded as much as possible; and the less the injured

part is disturbed the better. It will be found advantageous to apply one

piece of linen, smeared with HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY OIL, next to the

wound, so that it may not be necessary to remove it; then over that a

piece of several thicknesses, which may be removed for the purpose of

applying the VETERINARY OIL. Often the part may be so situated that the

plaster or covering cannot be conveniently kept in place; then the only

application will be the VETERINARY OIL, simply applied with the end of

the finger, so as to keep the sore or burned place moist. Slight

superficial burns require only the application of the oil as above.

During the healing, simply apply the VETERINARY OIL.

Give, also, for extensive burns, or deep burns, or scalds, the A.A.,

every two or three hours at first, then morning and at night. In extreme

cases, or with extensive ulcerations, give I.I., in alternation with

A.A., after the first fever has subsided.

Contusion—Bruise

Is defined as an injury inflicted on the surface of the body by

mechanical violence, without laceration of the skin. It may be slight,

involving only the rupture of minute vessels, or it may tear the

muscular fibres, or wound a large blood vessel.

CAUSES.—Blows from sticks; butts from horns; pressure of the yoke on

draught oxen.

TREATMENT.—For slight affections of this kind, in the nature of a

bruise, bathe the part with HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH HAZEL, three or four

times per day, and as often give a dose of the B.B. This will soon

remove the lameness and stiffness and restore the part, as well as ward

off injurious consequences. The administration of the B.B., should never

be omitted in these cases.

Sprains

These injuries affect the ligaments that connect the joints, and are

caused by false steps, slipping, or by forcibly twisting or contorting

the joints to an extent beyond that permitted by the natural limitations

of flexion.

Sprains happen to various members—the coronet joint, the fetlock, the

shoulder, etc. The pain, swelling and inflammation which accompany these

accidents are proportioned to the extent of the injury.

GENERAL TREATMENT.—This consists in affording rest to the limb,

mitigating the pain and subduing inflammatory action. Also apply to the

part, when you know where it is, HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH HAZEL, but in

all such cases give the B.B., for strains, lameness, etc., a dose at

first, four times per day, and later, morning and night.

=Sprain of the Shoulder.=—Draught oxen are particularly subject to this

affection, which is caused by excessive exertion in drawing, false

steps, slips or external violence.

SYMPTOMS.—There is heat, pain, stiffness and imperfect mobility of the

limb; the animal trails it with evident pain; does not raise it easily

over any obstacle; when standing, rests the weight of the body on the

opposite side.

TREATMENT.—Give the animal rest, and a dose of the B.B., three times per

day.

=Sprain of the Haunch.=—Inability to move the hind quarters and

extremities is due to the same causes as sprain of the shoulder.

SYMPTOMS.—Limping and dragging the hind legs; when standing, the beast

keeps them apart. In severe cases it can neither stand nor walk, but

falls down, unable to rise. Sometimes the lumbar region is hot, swollen

and painful.

TREATMENT.—The same as for other sprains. Give a dose of B.B., three

times per day.

=Sprain of the Loins.=—The causes, symptoms and treatment of this

affection are much the same as for sprain of the haunch.

OTHER MEANS.—In some sprains it will be advisable to precede the

medicinal treatment by applications of warm water, and afterwards to dry

the parts with a cloth before applying HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH HAZEL or

HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY OIL. After the swelling has subsided, the animal

may only very gradually return to its accustomed work. Give, always, a

dose of B.B., morning and night, or even three times per day.

Choking

Foreign bodies in the œsophagus—obstruction of the gullet. Roots that

have not been cut into small pieces before they are given to the cattle

are sometimes swallowed, especially if the beasts be very hungry. There

is no doubt about the symptoms, as the body may often be felt

externally, while difficulty of breathing, and violent action of the

muscles of deglutition, with a view to expel the intruder, indicate what

is the matter. Prompt action is necessary, as the animal, if not

relieved, becomes hoven or wind blown.

TREATMENT.—If the obstruction be near the top of the gullet, it may be

removed by the hand put through the mouth and protected by a common

balling-iron.

Try also pouring some oil or thin grease into the gullet through a horn

inserted into the mouth.

A pinch or small spoonful of coarse gun-powder put far back _under the

animal’s tongue_, will often cause a violent regurgitation or vomiting,

which brings up the offending substance.

Give also F.F., every half hour, if the animal is bloated or distressed

with wind, or the J.K., if suffering from indigestion.

If it be too far down the œsophagus for removal in this manner, the

obstruction must be pushed into the stomach. For this purpose a probang

must be carefully used. A good, common probang, which will not lacerate

the gullet, may be readily made from a piece of firm rope, from

half-inch to an inch in diameter and four or five feet long. Wind the

end of this from two or three inches down to near the end with firm,

strong twine, so as to make a firm square, not pointed end. Secure the

twine carefully in the strands, so it will not unravel, or yet better,

wind the ends of the cord along in the strands of the rope to the

handle. Then smear the bulb and rope with lard, and pass the probang

down to the obstruction, and, using it like a ram-rod, drawing it back

but a few inches at a stroke, you can readily drive down the

obstruction, without danger of lacerating the gullet, as you are in

great danger of doing by using a “rakestail” or other piece of stiff

wood, causing the death of the patient.

Wounds

Animals are often exposed to wounds, which differ in character and

importance, according to the manner in which they have been produced,

the extent of the injury, and the part wounded.

=Incised Wounds= are produced by instruments with sharp edges; these

wounds have no jagged edges, and heal most rapidly.

=Stab Wounds= may not appear very considerable on the surface, but may

be very serious, as important parts may have been injured. If a bowel

has been cut, blood is generally discharged from the anus, or the

contents of the bowel escape through the external wound. If the parts

around a stab wound soon begin to swell, blood-vessels and intestines

have probably been injured, and extravasation of blood takes place.

=Lacerated Wounds= are caused by rough and blunt bodies, have a jagged

and uneven appearance, and, although large and important blood-vessels

have been divided, in general there is but little bleeding.

TREATMENT.—If dirt, wood, glass, sand, shot, or any other substance have

got into the wound, remove them by a sponge and cold water; in some

cases a syringe may be required for this purpose. If there is much

bleeding, this must be arrested by using a sponge dipped in cold water,

or with HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH HAZEL or HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY OIL, and

gently pressed upon the wound. If _arteries_ have been severed, they

will have to be grasped with a pair of forceps, and drawn slightly and

gently forward, so that they may be securely tied by means of a strong

ligature of silk. You may know an artery has been injured by the blood

being bright red and coming in spurts. The healing of _cut-wounds_ is

facilitated by bringing the edges together by means of adhesive plaster,

or by stitching them. Before sewing up a wound, the bleeding should have

ceased, and the operator must be careful that all foreign bodies, loose

shreds of tissue, and clots of blood are carefully removed; otherwise

inflammation will be produced, and the stitches will have to be removed.

The sides of the wound should first be placed closely together, as

before injury; each thread should be tied by itself, so that if one

stitch breaks out, others may remain undisturbed. Well-waxed silk or

strong thread should be used, and as many stitches inserted as may be

necessary to unite the edges of the wound.

Give A.A., and apply the VETERINARY OIL in all cases of injury.

Caries of the Bones

SYMPTOMS.—Swelling of the bones; great tenderness to the touch;

frequently a suppurating wound. The disease is very serious, and very

difficult to cure.

TREATMENT.—You may give the J. K., each morning, and the I.I., at night,

with advantage.

Fractures

=Horns.=—When a cow breaks a horn there is considerable hemorrhage,

which should be arrested by applications of HUMPHREYS’ MARVEL WITCH

HAZEL. If the horn be warm, it is just possible to restore it by

immediately putting it in its place and fixing it there with bandages.

The animal should then be tied up to a ring, by itself, so that it

cannot rub against anything. The stump, or replaced horn, should be

wrapped in cloths after being well covered with HUMPHREYS’ VETERINARY

OIL. B.B., should be given internally, once or twice per day.

=Bones.=—The _ossa ilium_, or flank bones, are most liable to fracture.

TREATMENT.—In fractures, wherever situated, it is indispensable to keep

the part at rest as much as possible; consequently most fractures

incidental to cattle admit of no efficatious treatment. In simple

fractures, where the proper splints and bandages can be applied,

recovery may ensue.

Poisonous Plants

Cattle sometimes eats poisonous plants, such as acrid buds of oak, twigs

of yew, the water hemlock, and others, and consequently suffer and die.

Unless it is known that they have had access to such plants, it is not

always easy to determine the nature of the disorder from which they are

suffering. If there be suspicion of poisoning, the following treatment

may be pursued, when the symptoms seem to indicate it.

SYMPTOMS.—Torpor; refusal of food; excessive thirst; distention; the

animal shows signs of great agony, grinds its teeth, stamps, paws the

ground, strikes its flanks, rolls on the ground, as if with spasms or

colic. Sometimes there is great fury, ending in torpor, paralysis,

death.

TREATMENT.—The stomach-pump should be employed; water thrown into the

rumen till vomiting ensues. This should be repeated till the stomach is

emptied.

In general, however, and unless the animal be very valuable and the

circumstances favorable, such means are not available, and you can only

give the F.F. and J.K., in alternation, one dose every half hour, or

hour, according to the urgency of the case.

Eczema

Eczema is a disease of the skin and in general appearance is much like

mange, but is unlike mange in the fact that it is not caused by

parasites, and therefore is not contagious.

Several forms of eczema are observed in cattle.

1—An acute form which attacks the legs; there is dullness and loss of

appetite, followed by swelling, stiffness and elevated points of hair on

the legs.

2—There is a chronic form attacking various parts of the body with loss

of hair and crusts.

3—There is still another form caused by eating too much potato pulp,

this attacks the legs with redness, swelling, crusts and general loss of

condition.

Eczema may be told from mange by the absence of the parasites, which in

cattle can usually be seen by the naked eye; also in mange the itching

is much more intense than in eczema.

TREATMENT.—First clean the sores, removing all dirt, scabs, etc. For

this purpose, olive oil is better than water, as soap and water are apt

to cause further irritation. Apply Zinc Ointment night and morning. Give

A.A., three times per day, for two days, then I.I. instead of A.A.

Warbles

This is often seen on cattle in February and March. It consists of a

number of roundish swelling from five to twenty in number, usually on

the back and sides. The swellings are sometimes as large as the closed

fist.

During the summer months the gadfly lays its eggs on the skin of the

cattle, especially just above the heels. The cattle bite these places

and swallow the eggs; which hatch into larvæ and make their way through

the body to the skin, where they form these swellings. The swellings

suppurate and form a small hole, through which the larvæ breathe and

later escape. After the larvæ have escaped the swellings subside.

TREATMENT.—Warbles may be prevented by keeping the cattle from

swallowing the eggs. Either by brushing off the legs, or by applying

kerosene oil, or a 3% solution of creoline, or one of the proprietary

products for keeping flies off cattle. This should be done night and

morning during July and August.

The larvæ may be killed as soon as the hole is first formed; by

injecting kerosene oil from an ordinary oil can into the aperture, or by

covering the hole with thick grease, which prevents the larvæ from

breathing. When the larvæ are killed the swelling usually soon

disappear.