Issued April 22, 1912. U. S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, BUREAU OF ANIMAL INDUSTRY. A. D. MELVIN, Chief of Bureau. SPECIAL REPORT DISEASES OF CATTLE. Drs. ATKINSON, DICKSON, HARBAUGH, HICKMAN, LAW, LOWE, MOHLER, MURRAY, PEARSON, RANSOM, SALMON, SMITH, and TRUMBOWER. RdVJSED EDITION, 1912 WASHINGTON: GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE. 1912. p^. ^^t>' OEGAlSriZATION" OF THE BUREAU OF ANIMAL INDUSTRY. Chief: A. D. Melvin. Assistant Chief: A. M. Fabbington. Chief Clerk: Charles C. Cabeoll. Animal Husbandry Division: George M. Rommel, cbief. Biochemic Division: M. Dobset, chief. Dairy Division: B. H. Rawl, chief. Inspeclion Division: Rice P. Steddom, chief: Morris Wooden, R. A Ramsat, ind Albert E. Behnke, associate chiefs. Pathological Division: John R. Mohler, chief. Quarantine Division: Richard W. Hickman, chief. Zoological Division: B. H. Ran.sosi,, chiefs ...,.".'. Experiment Statian: E. C. Schbomjee, sup^iit^Ment. Editor: James IM. Pickens. . . .. . •'• LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL. United States Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Animal Industry, Was /ling t&fi, D. 6'., September 27, 1911. Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith a copy of the Special Report on Diseases of Cattle, prepared for reprinting in accordance with the following resolution, approved March 4, 1911 : Resolved hy the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled. That there be printed and bound in cloth one hundred thousand copies of the Special Report on the Diseases of Cattle, the same to be first revised and brought to date, under the supervision of the Secretary of Agriculture, seventy thousand copies for use of the House of Representatives and thirty thousand copies for use of the Senate. The original edition of this work was published in 1892, since which time there has been such a demand for copies that several edi- tions have been printed by order of Congress. It was revised in 1904 and again in 1908. For the new edition authorized by the foregoing resolution it has been found necessary to make only a few slight changes. While the work is of a popular character and is intended primarily for the use of the farmer and the stock owner, it will doubtless also continue to be found useful to the student and the veterinary prac- titioner. Ivespectfully, A. D. Melvin, Chief of Bureau. Hon. James Wilson, Secretary of AgHeulture. 242935 CONTENTS. Page. Administration of medicines. By Leonard Pearson 9 Diseases of the digestive organs. By A. J. Murray 14 Poisons and poisoning. By V. T. Atkinson 54 Diseases of the heart, blood vessels, and lymphatics. By Leonard Pearson. 71 Noncontagious diseases of the organs of respiration. By William Herbert Lowe 86 Diseases of the nervous system. By \V. H. Harbaugh 101 Diseases of the urinary organs. By James Law 113 Diseases of the generative organs. By James Law 147 Diseases following parturition. By James Law 216 Diseases of young calves. By James I>a w 252 Bones: Diseases and accidents. By V. T. Atkinson 269 Surgical operations. By William Dickson and William Herbert Lowe . . . 295 Tumors affecting cattle. By John R. Mohler 315 Diseases of the skin. By M. R. Trumbower 332 Diseases of the foot. By M. R. Trumbower 347 Diseases of the eye and its appendages. By M. R. Trxtmbower 352 Diseases of the ear. By M. R. Trumbower 367 Infectious diseases of cattle. By D. E. Salmon and Theobald Smith 371 The animal parasites of cattle. By B. H. Ransom 518 Mycotic stomatitis of cattle. By John R. Mohler 542 Index 549 5 LLUSTRATIONS PLATES. Page. Plate I. Showing the position of the rumen 52 II. Stomach of ruminant 52 III. Instruments used in treating diseases of digestive organs 52 IV. Microscopic anatomy of the liver 52 V. Ergot in hay 52 VI. Ergotism 52 VII. Diagram of the circulation 84 VIII. Showing the position of the lung 90 IX. Kidney and generative organs 146 X. Microscopic anatomy of the kidney 146 XI. Calculi of kidney and bladder 146 XII. Fetal calf within its membranes 176 XIII. Pregnant uterus with cotyledons 176 XIV. Vessels of umbilical cord 176 XV. Normal position of calf in utero 176 XVI. Abnormal position of calf in utero 192 XVII. Abnormal position of calf in utero 192 XVIII. Abnormal position of calf in utero; surgical instruments and sutures 192 XIX. Monstrosities 192 XX. Instruments used in difficult labor 212 XXI. Instruments used in difficult labor 212 XXII. Supports for prolapsed uterus 250 XXIII. Supports for prolapsed uterus 250 XXIV. Instruments used in diseases following parturition 250 XXV. Skeleton of the cow 288 XXVI. Devices for casting cattle 314 XXVII. Tracheotomy and venesection 314 XXVIII. Surgical instruments and sutures 314 XXIX. Various bacteria which produce disease in cattle 378 XXX. Upper, or dorsal, surface of the lungs of the ox 390 XXXI. Broncho-pneumonia 390 XXXII. Contagious pleuro-pneumonia 390 XXXIII. Contagious pleuro-pneumonia 390 XXXIV. Portions of tuberculous lungs of cattle 431 XXXV. Tuberculous liver from cow 434 XXXVI . Tuberculous lymphatic gland 434 XXXVII. Tuberculosis of the omentum (caul) 434 XXXVIII. Tuberculosis of the lymphatic gland and omentum (caul ) 444 XXXIX. Fig. 1. — Tuberculosis of the sirloin and porterhouse cuts of beef. Fig. 2. — Tuberculosis of pleura of cow, so-called pearly disease. . 444 XL. Tuberculous udder of cow 444 XLI. Actinomycosis 456 XLII. Actinomycosis of the lungs 456 XLIII. Actinomycosis of the jaw 456 XLIV. Section of muscle from a blackleg swelling 466 illusteatio:ns. 7 Page. Plate XLV. Necrotic Btomatitis (calf diphtheria) 466 XL VI. Fig. 1.— Spleen in Texas fever. Fig. 2.— Normal spleen 484 XLVII. Texas fever 484 XLVIIT. The cattle tick (Margaropus annulatus) — the carrier of Texas fever 484 XIJX. Portion of a eteer's hide showing the Texas fever tick {Marga- ropus annulatus) of the United States 484 L. Figs. 1 and 2. — Dorsal and ventral views of male Texas fever tick (Margaropus annulatus). Figs. 3 and 4. — Dorsal and ventral views of replete female Texas fever tick ( Margaropv^s annulatus) 484 LI. Map showing district infected with Texas fever of cattle 484 LII. Verminous bronchitis 540 TEXT FIGURES. Fig. 1. Plan for freeing cattle and pastures from ticks by rotation, requiring four and one-half months 497 2. Plan for freeing cattle and pastures from ticks by rotation, requiring eight months 499 3. Plan for freeing cattle and pastures from ticks by rotation, requiring four months, with new pasture 500 4. Plan for freeing cattle and pastures from ticks by rotation, feed-lot or soiling method 501 5. Pail spraying pump for small herds 503 6. Hornfiy {Hmmatohia serrata) in resting position 520 7. Hornflies {Jliematobia serrata) on cow horn 520 8. Buffalo gnat 521 9. Screw worm (larva of Chrysomyia macellaria) 522 10. Screw-worm fly ( Chrysomyia macellaria) 522 11. The warble fly (Hypoderma lineata) 523 12. Short-nosed blue louse {Hsemntopimis eurysternus) of cattle 525 13. Long-nosed blue louse (Haematopinus vituli) of cattle 525 14. Red louse ( Trichodectes scalaris) of cattle 525 15. Egg of short-nosed blue louse (Hsematopinu^ eurysternus) attached to a hair 525 16. Mite which causes psoroptic scab of sheep 526 17. Portion of the wall of the first stomach with conical flukes (Paramphis- tomum cervi) attached 530 18. Twisted stomach worms (Ilasmonchu^ contortus) 530 19. Twisted stomach worms {Hxmonchus contortus) 531 20. Embryo of twisted stomach worm {Hsemonchu^ contortus) ccjiled on tip of grass blade 532 21. A drenching tube made from an ordinary tin funnel, a piece of mbber hose, and a piece of brass pipe 533 22. Piece of lining of fourth stomach showing cysts of the encysted stomach worm {Ostertagia ostertagx) 534 23. A tapeworm ( Moniezia planissima) which infests cattle 535 24. The common liver fluke (Fasciola hepatica) 537 25. The large American fluke {Fasciola magna) 537 26. Portion of grass stalk bearing three encysted cercarise of the common liver fluke {Fasciola hepatica) 538 27. Hydatids (Echinococcus granulosus) in portion of hog's liver 539 28. Thin-necked bladder worm {Taenia hydatigena) from abdominal cavity of a steer 539 29. Section of a pork tongue heavily infested with pork measles 540 30 . Lung worms {Dictyocaulus viviparus) of cattle 541 SPECIAL REPORT ON DISEASES OF CATTLE. ADMINISTEATION OF MEDICINES. By Leonard Pearson, B. S., V. M. D., Dean of the Veterinary Department, University of Penrif^ylrauia, and State Veterinarian of Penn-sylvania. Medicines may be administered to cattle in many ways. The chan- nel and method of administration depend on ^Ahether a general or local effect is desired, the condition of the animal, and the nature of the medicine that is to be given. It is the easiest method, and there- fore customary, to give ordinary remedies by the mouth, either with the food, or with drink, or separately. There are, however, some conditions in which medicines administered in this way will not act promptly enough, or wherein a desired effect of the medicine on a distant part of the body is wholly lacking, unless it is applied in some other way. The various methods of administering medicines to cattle will be considered below. By the mouth. — The simplest way to give medicines by the mouth is to mix them with the food or water. This can be done when the medicine is in the form of a powder or fluid, if but a small quantity is to be given, if it does not have a taste that is disagreeable to the animal and is not so irritant as to injure the lining membranes of the mouth and throat. The usual method of administering bulky or unpalatable doses is to mix them with a fluid vehicle, such as water, milk, molasses, or beer, and give from a bottle. A dose given in this way is known as a " drench." In administering a drench the head of the animal should be elevated a little by an assistant. This is best accomplished when standing on the left side of the cow's head and by grasping the nose with the thumb and fingers of the right hand inserted in the nostrils; 10 DISEASES OF CATTLE. with the left hand beneath the chin the head is further raised and supported. If the animal is unruly, it may be tied in a stall or placed in a stanchion. The medicine can now be poured into the mouth by inserting the neck of the bottle between the lips on the right side. Care must be taken to avoid getting the bottle between the back teeth. The mouth of the bottle should be inserted as far as the middle of the tongue and the contents poured slowly. If the cow coughs, the head must at once be lowered to permit the fluid to escape from the larynx. If one persists in giving medicine during coughing, some of the dose may pass down the windpipe to the lungs and cause a severe or a fatal pneumonia. This accident is especially to be guarded against when the throat is partly paralyzed or insensitive, as in parturient paresis (milk fever). In this disease it has often happened that drenches have been poured into the lungs, thus killing the cow. The amount of fluid to be given in a drench depends upon the effect that is sought and the nature of the medicine. In impactions of the stomach verj^ large quantities of fluid may be given — as much as a gallon or several gallons at a time. Usually, however, it is not cus- tomary or desirable to give more than from 1 to 2 quarts at a dose, and not more than a pint unless it be necessary on account of the irritant quality of the drug that has to be shielded with a large quan- tity of the vehicle. Medicines that are soluble should be completely dissolved before they are given. Insoluble medicines should be finely divided by powdering or by shaking, and should be well agitated and mixed immediately before they are given. In the latter case a menstruum with considerable body, such as molasses or flaxseed tea or milk, will help to hold solids or oils in suspension until swallowed. Balls are large pills adapted for the larger animals. Powders or gums are sometimes mixed with an adhesive substance and rolled into balls for the purpose of convenience of administration. Balls are not so much used and are not so well adapted to the medication of cattle as of horses. The process of solution is slower in the paunch of a cow than in the stomach of a horse ; and if the cow is so sick as to have stopped ruminating, a ball may become covered up and lost in the mass of material in the paunch and so lie for days, producing no effect whatever. Capsules are shells or envelopes made of soluble gelatin in which powders or liquids may be inclosed. Capsules and balls are adminis- tered by being placed on the tongue well back in the mouth while the tongue is drawn forward and the mouth is held open by a block of wood between the back teeth. The ball should be dropped, the tongue released, and the block removed as nearly simultaneously as possible, so that the backward carriage of the tongue will throw the ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINES. 11 ball into the throat and lead to its being swallowed. Care must be taken to avoid having the hand cut or crushed while introducing the ball. After a little experience it is possible to do away with the block of wood between the teeth for keeping the mouth open. By the stomach. — Medicines are introduced directly into the first stomach by the use of an esophageal tube or through the cannula of a trocar passed into the paunch through the side. This method is used in the treatment of diseases of digestion. By the rectum. — Medicines are usually administered by the rec- tum for the purpose of controlling the bowels and for the treatment of local diseases. Sometimes, however, medicines that have a gen- eral effect are given in this way when, for any reason, it is not possi- ble or convenient to give them through the mouth. Only drugs that are readily absorbed should be given per rectum for a general effect and in somewhat larger dose or more frequently than when given by the mouth. Such stimulants as ether, alcohol, or the aromatic spirits of ammonia, diluted with from four to six times their bulk of warm water, may be used in this way. Rectal injections, or enemata, are used in the treatment of consti- pation. If it is the purpose of the injection to soften hardened fecal masses, the water should be comfortably warm and it may have a little clean soap in it. If it is the purpose of the injection to stimu- late sluggish bowels to contraction, the water may be cold. In giving rectal injections a rectal syringe may be used, or, better, a piece of one-half to three-quarter inch rubber hose 5 feet long with a tin funnel attached to one end. The hose is soaped or oiled and introduced slowly and gently into the rectum 2 or 3 feet. The fluid is then slowly poured into the funnel and allowed to gravitate into the rectum. The same apparatus may be used for feeding by the rectum. By the vagina. — Medicines are inserted into the vagina, and through the vagina into the womb, in a manner similar to that of rectal administration. Most of the medication made use of in this way is for the local treatment of these organs. Following calving, during outbreaks of abortion, and in an infectious disease of the vagina, such injections become necessary. By the udder. — Injections into the udder are now regTdarly made in the treatment of parturient paresis (milk fever). For this pur- pose a 1 per cent solution of iodid of potash is commonly employed, although some other solutions and oxygen gas are also used. In mak- ing this injection there are so many precautions necessary in relation to the sterilization of the apparatus and the teats and skin that this work should be left in the hands of a skilled veterinarian. The result of the introduction of even a minute quantity of infectious dirt may be the loss of the udder. For making this injection one may use one 12 DISEASES OF CATTLE. of the prepared sets of apparatus or a milking tube and fnnnel con- nected by a piece of small rubber hose. The apparatus should be boiled and wrapped in a clean towel until needed. The udder and teats and the hands of the operator must be well disinfected, and the solution must be freshly made with recently boiled Avater kept in a sterile bottle. The udder should be emptied of milk before the injection is made. After all these precautions have been observed the milking tube may be inserted and through it one-half pint of solu- tion introduced by gravity air pressure or by syringe. There is prac- tically no danger in this mode of treatment if it is properly carried out. Injections into the udder are sometimes made in the treatment of garget, but so far with indifferent success. By the kostrils. — An animal may be caused to inhale medicine in the form of gas or vapor or to snuff up a fine powder. Sometimes, for the purpose of local treatment, fluids are injected into tlie nose. A medicine inhaled may have a local effect alone or a general effect. Medicated steam, carrying the volatile products of creolin, carbolic acid, balsam of Peru, compound tincture of benzoin, tincture of iodin, etc., may be liberated beneath the nostrils of a cow so that she must inhale these soothing vapors; but such treatment is not so common for cattle as for horses. In producing general anesthesia, or insensibility to pain, the vapor of chloroform or ether is adminis- tered by the nostrils. As a preliminary to this it is necessary to cast and confine the animal. Great care is necessary to avoid complete stoppage of the heart or breathing. By the trachea. — Medicines are injected into the trachea, or wind- pipe, in the treatment of some forms of diseases of the lungs, and especially in that form of bronchitis or pneumonia that is caused by hmgworms. For this injection a large hypodermic syringe is used that is fitted with a very thick, strong needle. The needle is to be inserted about the middle of the neck and between the cartilaginous rings of the trachea. By the skin. — Although a number of drugs, notably mercury, are so readily absorbed by the skin of cattle as to render poisoning easy, medicines are not given in this way for their general or constitutional but only for their local effect. Diseases of the skin and superficial parasites are treated or de- stroyed by applications in the forms of washes, ointments, dips, and powders. Liniments and lotions are applied to the skin for the relief of some near-lying part, such as a muscle, tendon, or joint. Blisters are applied to the skin for the purpose of obtaining the effect of counterirritation upon a neighboring region or organ. Cold water may be applied to the skin to reduce the temperature and to diminish congestion or inflammation in a superficial area or to reduce the ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICINES. 13 temperature of the whole body. High fever and heat strokes are treated in this way. By the tissue beneath the skin. — Hypodermic or subcutaneous injections are often made for the purpose of introducing a drug, reagent, or vaccine directly into the connecting tissue beneath the skin. Introduced in this way, the substance is quickly absorbed, none of it is lost, and its whole effect is obtained, often within a few minutes. There are numerous precautions necessary in making a subcutane- ous injection, most of which have to do with cleansing and steriliza- tion. It is also important to select a proper site for the injection, so that blood vessels, joints, and superficial nerves, organs, or cavities may all be avoided. With due regard for the necessary precautions, there is practically no danger in such an injection, but it should be attempted only by those who are able to carry it through in a surgi- cally clean way. Only certain drugs can be given subcutaneously, and dosage must be accurately gi-aduated. By the VEINS. — Certain medicines act most promptly and surely when introduced directly into the blood by injecting them into a vein. The jugular vein is usually selected for this purpose. Some vaccines and antitoxins are administered in this way. Intravenous injection should be practiced only by experienced veterinarians. DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. By A. J. MuKRAY, M. R. C. V. S. [Revised in 1904 by Leonard Pearson, B. S.. V. M. D.. and in 1908 by R. W. IIkkman, V. M. D.] CHARACTER OF FEEDS AND FEEDING. Diseases of the digestive organs are very common among cattle, and may often be traced to defects in feeding. The first three stomachs of the larger ruminants hold the feed for a long time, during which period it is subjected to macerating, mixing, and straining processes in preparation for entrance into the fourth or true stomach. The straining is accomplished through the medium of the many plies or book, while the paunch, with its adjunct, the waterbag, is concerned in the macerating, kneading, and mixing, as well as in regurgitation for rumination, or the chewing of the cud. The action of the three first stomachs is merely preparatory to digestion. Thus it would seem that as a result of their complex anatomical and functional arrangement, the feed of the ox, when of good quality and whole- some, is in the most favorable condition possible for the digestive process when it reaches the fourth stomach. It is in the fourth stomach that true digestion first takes place. If the feed is of im- proper character, or is so given that it can not be cared for by the animal in a normal way, false fermentations arise, causing indiges- tion, and possibly, later, organic disease. In feeding cattle there are a number of important considerations apart from the economy of the ration, and some of these are noted below. Feeds must not be damaged by exposure to the weather, by frost, by molds, or by deleterious fermentations. Damaged feeds retard or prevent digestion, and sometimes they contain or cause to be generated substances that irritate the digestive tract or are distinctly poisonous to the animal. For example, hay that was rained on severely during curing has not only lost a part of its nutritive value through a washing-out process, but what remains is not so readily available as in good hay. Eoots that have been frozen are likely to irritate and injure the digestive tract. Grass eaten with the frost on it may cause severe indigestion. Moldy feeds are not all injurious, for some molds appear to have no influence on the process of digestion, but molds of other species may not only 14 DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 15 retard digestion and cause local injury to the digestive organs, but they may also cause general poisoning of a severe or fatal type. The following molds have been shown (Dammann) to be dangerous in respect of the production of the morbid conditions enumerated: TiUetia caries grows chiefly in wheat, and may be found with the grain thus appearing in the bran or meal. It causes paralysis of the throat and spinal cord and irritation of the digestive tract. The rusts, such as Puccinia graminis, P. stramims^ P. coronata^ and P. anuvlinacea^ cause colic and diarrhea, and in some cases partial ftaralysis of the throat. The rusts that occur on clovers, beans, and jDcas cause very severe irritation of the lining membrane of the mouth and throat, resulting sometimes in gangrene of this tissue. Polydesmus exitans grows on the leaves of rape and turnips, appearing in early summer. This fungus is very irritating to the mouths and feet of cattle, causing severe inflammation and the for- mation of a false membrane. In some instances this condition has been mistaken for foot-and-mouth disease, but it can be differentiated by the absence of the blister that is characteristic of foot-and-mouth disease and by the further fact that it is nontransmissible. PolytrinciiiTn trifolii., which grows on clover, causing it to become black, causes severe iiTitation of the stomach and intestines of cattle feeding upon it. Feeds must not contain too large a proportion of woody filjer or indigestible substances. If the dry matter ingested or the bulk of the feed be very great on account of the small proportion of digesti- ble matter, it is impossible for the great mass to be properly mois- tened with and attacked by the digestive juices. In consequence of this, abnormal fermentations arise that cause indigestion and irrita- tion of the digestive organs. On the other hand, a ration too con- centrated, and especially too rich in protein, is not suitable, becau.se the animal must have, after a meal, a certain feeling of fullness in order to be comfortable and quiet, and the digestive organs require a relatively large volume of contents to fill them to the point where secretion is properly stimulated and their activity is most efficient. If too much protein is in the ration there is a waste of expensive feed, and the tendency is for the animal to l^ecome thin. It is evident that a cow can not thrive on concentrated feeds alone, even though these contain in assimilable form all of the nutritive materials needed for perfect support. It is because bulk is netom,s. — The calf is depressed ; appetite is poor ; sometimes there is fever ; the extremities are cold. The dung becomes gradually softer and lighter in color until it is cream colored and little thicker than milk. It has a most offensive odor and may contain clumps of curd. Later it contains mucus and gas bubbles. It sticks to the hair of the tail and buttocks, causing the hair to drop off and the skin to become irritated. There may be pain on passing dung and also abdominal or colicky pain. The calf stands about with the back arched and belly contracted. There may be tympanites. Great weakness ensues in severe cases, and without prompt and successful treatment death soon follows. Treatment. — Remove the cause. Give appropriate food of best quality in small quantities. Make sure that the cow furnishing the milk is healthy and is properly fed. Clean all milk vessels. Clean and disinfect the stalls. For the diarrhea give two raw eggs, or a cup of strong coffee, or 2 ounces of blackberry brandy. If the case is severe, give 1 ounce of castor oil with a teaspoonful of creolin and 20 grains of subnitrate of bismuth. Repeat the bismuth and creolin with blackberry brandy and flaxseed tea every 4 hours. Tannopin may be used in dose of 15 to 30 grains. Calves artificially fed on whole or skim milk should receive only such milk as is sweet and has been handled in a sanitary manner. Milk should always be warmed to the body temperature before feed- DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 35, ing. When calves artificially milk fed develop diarrhea, the use of the following treatment has given excellent results in many cases: Immediately after milking, or the separation of the skim milk from the cream, formalin should be added to the milk which is used for feeding in the proportion of 1 to 4,000, which may be closely approxi- mated by adding 4 drops of the formalin to each quart of milk. This medicated milk should be fed to the calf in the usual quantity. When the diarrhea is not controlled by this treatment in three or four days, the additional use of some of the agents recommended above may assist in a recovery. INFECTIOUS DIABBHEA ; WHITE SCOUR. [See chapter on Diseases of Young Calves, p. 252.] GASTRO-ENTEBinS. This consists of an inflammation of the walls of the stomachs and of the bowel. Gastro-enteritis, or inflammation of the walls of the stomachs and intestinas, follows upon irritations more severe or longer continued than those that j^roduced gastro-intestinal catarrh. Causes. — Severe indigestion may be followed by gastro-enteritis, or it may be caused by swallowing irritant poisons, such as arsenic or corrosive sublimate or irritant plants. Exposure to cold or inclement weather may produce this disease, especially in debilitated animals or animals fed improperly. It is claimed that if cattle feed on vege- tation infested with some kinds of caterpillars this disease may rasult. Symptoms. — Dullness; drooping of the ears; diynessof the muzzle; dry skin; staring coat; loins morbidly sensitive to pressure; fullness of the left flank, which is owing to the distention of the fourth stomach by gas. The pulse is small, the gait is feeble and staggering; each step the animal makes is accompanied by a grunt, and this symptom is especially marked if the animal happens to walk in a downward direction. There is loss of appetite, and rumination is suspended. The passages at first are few in number, hard, and are sometimes coated with mucus or with blood. Later a severe diarrhea sets in, when the passages contain mucus and blood and have an offensive odor. There is evidence of colicky pain, and the abdomen is sensitive to pressure. Pain may be continuous. There is fever and acceleration of pulse rate and respirations. Mental depression and even insensibility occur before death. The disease is always severe and often fatal. Past-rtwrtem appeai^ances. — The mucous membrane of the fourth stomach has a well-marked red color and sometimes presents ulcera- tions. The wall is thickened and softened, and similar conditions are found in the walls of the intestines. The red discoloration ex- 36 DISEASES OF CATTLE. tends in spots or large areas quite through the wall, shoAAnng on the outside. Treatment. — Very small quantities of carefully selected food must be given and the appetite must not be forced. Protect the animal well from cold and dampness. Internally, give linseed tea, boiled milk, boiled oatmeal gi'uel. or rice water. These protectives may carry the medicine. Tannopin in doses of 30 to 60 gi'ains is good. Subnitrate of bismuth in doses of 1 to 2 drams may be given. Pul- verized opium may be used, if the diarrhea is severe, in 1 to 2 dram doses. If the bowel movements are not free, one may give from a pint to a quart of castor or raw linseed oil. TRAVMATIC INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH. This disease results from the presence of a foreign body. This condition is not rare in cattle, because these animals have the habit of swallowing their food without careful chewing, and so nails, screws, hairpins, ends of wire, and other metal objects may be swallowed unconsciously. Such objects gi-avitate to the second stomach, where they may become caught in the folds of the lining mucous membrane, and in some instances the wall of this organ is perforated. From this accident, chronic indigestion results. The symptoms, more or less characteristic, are pain when getting up or lying down ; gnmting and pain upon sudden motion, especially down hill; coughing; pain on pressure over the second stomach, which lies immediately above the cartilaginous prolongation of the sternum. If the presence of such a foreign body is recognized, it may be removed by a difficult surgical operation . or, as is usually most economical, the animal may be killed for beef, if there is no fever. DISEASES or THE BOAVELS. DIARRHEA AND DYSENTERY. [See also Gastrointestinal catarrh, p. 34] The word " dysentery," as it is commonly used in relation to the diseases of animals, signifies a severe form of diarrhea. Causes. — Diarrhea is a symptom of irritation of the intestines, resulting in increased secretion or increased muscular contractions, or both. The irritation is sometimes the result of chilling from exposure, improper feeding, irritant foods, indigestion, organic dis- eases of the intestines, or parasites. Symptom.s. — Passages from the bowels are frequent, at first con- sisting of thin dung, but as the disease continues they become watery and offensive-smelling, and may be even streaked with blood. At first the animal shows no constitutional disturbance, but later it becomes weak and may exhibit evidence of abdominal pain by lo^jk- DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE 0R<5ANS. 37 ing around to the side, dra^^-ing the feet together, lying doTrn. or moving restlessly. Sometimes this malady is accompanied by fever, gi-eat depression, loss of strength, rapid loss of flesh, and it may terminate in death. Treatment. — When the disease depends on irritating properties of the food which has been supplied to the animal, it is advisable to give a mild purgative, such as a pint of castor or linseed oil. T\Tien the secretions of the bowels are irritating, an ounce of carbonate of mag- nesia and half an ounce of tincture of opium should be shaken up in a quart of linseed tea and given to the animal three times a day until the passages present a natural appearance. When there is debility, want of appetite, no fever, but a continuance of the Avatery discharges from the bowels, then an astringent may be given. For such cases the following is serviceable: Tannic acid, 1 ounc€; powdered gentian. 2 ounces; mix and divide into 12 powders, one powder to be given three times a day until the passages present a natural appearance. Each powder may be mixed with a half pint of whisky or blackberry brandy and a pint of water. Tannopin is a new remedy that is most Tjseful in such cases. The dose is from 30 gi'ains to 2 drams. Useful household remedies are raw eggs, strong cottee, parched rye flour, or decoction of oak bark. In all cases the food must be given sparingly, and it should be carefully selected to insure good quality. Complete rest in a box stall is desirable. When diarrhea is a symptom of a malady characterized by the presence of a blood poison, the treat- ment appro})nate to such disease must be applied. SIMPLE ENTEHITIS. [See entine is spread on the tow. and the piece of pasteboard is applied on the layer of pitch, its outer surface being covered with the same preparation. Lastly, the bandage, adhering to the piece of pasteboard, to the skin, and to the different turns which it makes around the body, is carefully applied so as to form an immovable, rigid, and solid bandage, which will retain the hernia long puough for the wound in the abdominal walls to heal permanently. If the hernia is old and small it may be treated by injecting a strong solution of common salt about the edges of the tear. This causes swelling and inflamnuition. which, respectively, forces the pro- truded organ back and closes the opening. There is some risk attached to this method of treatment. In small, old ventral hernias the method of compressing and sloughing off the skin has been used successfully. If the hernia is large a radical operation will be necessary, and this is also tnie when the symptoms indicate that a hernia is strangulated. This operation is performed by cutting down on the hernia, restoring the organ to the abdominal cavity, and then closing the wound with two sets of stitches; the imier stitches, in the muscular wall, should be made with catgut and the outer stitches, in the skin, may be made with silk or silver wire. The strictest surgical cleanliness must be obser\'ed. Bleeding vessels should be tied. Then a compress composed of ten or twelve folds of cloth must be placed smoothly over the seat of injury and a bandage applied around the body, the two ends l^eing fastened at the back. In the smaller kinds of hernia, nitric, acid may sometimes l)e applied with success. This treatment should not be applied until the swelling and inflaimnation attending the appearance of the hernia have subsided ; then, the contents of the hernia having been returned, the surface of skin corresponding to it is sponged over with a solution composed of 1 part of nitric acid to 2 j^arts of water. This treatment acts by exciting considerable inflammation, which has the eifect of causing swelling, and thus frequently closing the hernial opening and preventing the contents of the sac from return- ing. A second application should not be made until the inflammation excited by the fir.st has subsided. In what is termed spontaneous hernia it is usele.ss to apply aiw kind of treatment. 42 DISEASES OF CATTLE. Umbilical hernia. — The umbilicus, or navel, is the aperture through which the blood vessels pass from the mother to the fetus, and naturally the sides of this aperture ought to adhere or unite after birth. In very young animals, and sometimes in new-born calves, this aperture in the abdominal muscles remains open and a part of the bowel or a portion of the mesenteiy may slip through the open- ing, constituting what is called umbilical hernia. The wall of the sac is formed by the skin, which is covered on the inner surface by a layer of cellular tissue^ and within this there is sometimes, but not always, a layer of peritoneum. The contents of the hernia may be formed by a part of the bowel, by a portion of the peritoneum, or may contain portions of both peritoneum and bowel. When the sac con- tains only the peritoneum it has a doughy feel, but when it is formed by a portion of the bowel it will be more elastic on applying pressure. Cames. — In the new-born animal the opening of the navel is gen- erally large, and this opening may sometimes give way to the pressure of the bowel on account of the weak and relaxed condition of the abdominal muscles. This defective and abnomial condition of the umbilicus is frequently hereditary. It may be occasioned by roughly pulling away the umbilical cord ; through kicks or blows on the belly ; through any severe straining by which the sides of the navel are stretched apart. We may mention in this connection that it is best in new-born calves to tie the umbilical cord tightly about 2 inches from the navel, and then to leave it alone, when it will drop off in a few days in most cases, leaving the navel in a closed condition. Treatment. — It is well to bear in mind that many, and especially the smaller, umbilical hernias will heal spontaneously ; that is, nature effects a cure. As the animal gets older the abdominal muscles get stronger and possess more power of resistance to pressure, the bowels become larger and do not pass so readily through a small opening, so that from a combination of causes there is a gradual growing to- gether or adhesion of the sides of the navel. In cases of umbilical hernia where there are no indications that a spontaneous cure will take place, the calf should be laid on its back, and immediately on this being done the hernia will often disappear into the abdomen. If it does not its reduction may be brought about by gentle handling, endeavoring, if need be, to empty the organs forming the hernia before returning them into the abdomen. After the hernia has been returned the hair should be clipped from the skin covering it and a compress composed of 10 or 12 folds of linen or cotton should be applied, first smearing the skin with pitch and then a bandage about 3 inches wide should be passed round the body so as to retain the compress in position. The lower part of the compress should be smeared with pitch, and also those portions of the bandage which WSEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 43 pass over it, so as to keep it solid and prevent it from shifting. In some cases it will be found that the contents of the sac can not be returned into the abdomen, and this generally arises from the fact that some part of the contents of the sac has grown to or become adherent to the edges of the umbilical opening. In such a case the skin must be carefully laid open in the long direction, the adhesions of the protruding organs carefully separated from the umbilicus, and after the protruding parts have been returned into the abdomen, the sides of the umbilicus must be freshened if necessary by paring, and then the edges of the opening brought together by catgut stitches; the wound in the skin must then also be brought together by stitches. The wound must be carefully dressed every day and a bandage passed round the body so as to cover and protect the part operated on. In small hernias nitric acid has been used successfully in the same manner as has been described in si>eaking of the treatment of ventral hernia. Sulphuric acid has also been used for a similar purpose, diluting it to the extent of 1 part of acid to 3 or 5 of water. In thin- skinned animals the weaker preparations ought to be preferred, and caution must be exercised in using such preparations so as not to destroy the tissues on which they are applied. Another method of treatment is, after the contents of the sac have been returned into the abdomen, to tie a piece of strong waxed cord round the pendulous portion which formed the outer covering of the hernia. The string is apt to slacken after two or three days, when a new piece of cord should be applied above the first one. The con- striction of the skin sets up inflammation, which generally extends to the umbilicus and causes the edges to adhere together, and by the time the portion of skin below the ligature has lost its vitality and dropped off, the umbilicus is closed and there is no danger of the abdominal organs protruding through it. This is what takes place when this method has a favorable result, though if the umbilicus does not become adherent and the skin sloughs, the bowels will protrude through the opening. Gut-tie (peritoneal hernia). — In peritoneal hernia of the ox a loop or knuckle of intestine enters from the abdomen into a rent in that part of the peritoneum which is situated at the margin of the hip bone or it passes under the remains of the spermatic cord, the end of which may be grown fast to the inner inguinal ring. The onward pressure of the bowel, as well as the occasional turning of the latter round the spermatic cord, is the cause of the cord exercising considerable pressure on the bowel, which occasions irritation, ob- structs the passage of excrement, and excites inflammation, which terminates in gangrene and death. The rent in the peritoneum is situated at the upper and front part of the pelvis, nearer to the sacrum than the pubis. (PI. I.) 44 DISEASES OF CATTLE. Causes. — Among the causes of peritoneal hernia considerable impor- tance is attached to a method of castration which is practiced in cer- tain districts, viz, the tearing or rupturing of the spermatic cord by main force instead of dividing it at a proper distance above the testicle in a surgical manner. After this violent and rough method of operating, the cord retracts into the abdomen and its stump becomes adherent to some part of the peritoneum, or it may Avind around the bowel and then the stump becomes adherent, so that strangulation of the bowel results. The rough dragging on the cord may also cause a tear in the peritoneum, the result of which need not be described. The severe exertion of ascending hills and mountains, drawing heavy loads, or the straining which oxen undergo while fighting each other may also give rise to peritoneal hernia. Si/mpt&ms. — The ox suddenly becomes very restless, stamps with his feet, moves backward and forward, hurriedly lies down, rises, moA'es his tail uneasily, and kicks at his belly with the foot of the affected side. The pain evinced may diminish, but soon returns again. In the early stage there are frequent passages of dung, but after the lapse of 18 or 24 hours this ceases, the bowel apparently being emptied up to the point of strangidation, and the passages now consist only of a little mucus mixed with blood. AVhen injections are given at this time the water passes out of the bowel without even being colored. The animal lies down on the side where the hernia exists and stretches out his hind feet in a backward direction. These two particular symptoms serve to distinguish this affection from en- teritis and invagination of the bowel. As time passes, the animal becomes quieter, but this cessation of pain may indicate that gangrene of the bowel has set in, and may. therefore, under certain circum- stances, be considered a precursor of death. Gangi-ene may take place in from four to six days, when perforation of the bowel may occur and death result in a short time. Treatment. — The ox should in the first place be examined by oiling the hand and arm and passing it into the rectum ; the hand should be passed along the margin of the pelvis, beginning at the sacrum and continuing downward toward the inguinal ring, when a soft, painful swelling will be felt, which may vary from the size of an apple to that of the two fists. This swelling will be felt to be tightly compref«ed by the spermatic cord. It very rarely happens that there is any similar swelling on the left side, though it is best in such cases to make a thorough examination. The bowel has sometimes been released from its position by driving the ox down a hill, by causing him to jump from a height of 2 feet to the gi*ound, and the expedient of trotting him has been resorted to with the hope that the jolting movement might bring about a release of the bowel. If the simple ex- pedients mentioned have been tried and failed, then the hand being DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 45 passed into the rectum should be pressed gently on the swelling in an upward and forward direction, so as to endeavor to push the im- prisoned portion of the bowel back into the abdomen. While this is being done the ox's hind feet should stand on higher ground than the front, so as to favor the slipping out of the bowel by its own weight, and at the same time an assistant should squeeze the animal's loins, so as to cause it to bend downward and so relax the band formed by the spermatic cord. If the imprisoned portion of gut is freed, which may be ascertained by the disappearance of the swelling, the usual sounds produced by the bowels moving in the abdomen will be heard, and in a few houi-s the feces and urine will be passed as usual. If the means mentioned fail in releasing the imprisoned portion of the gut, then an incision about 4 inchcvS long must be made in the right flank in a downward direction, the hand introduced into the abdomen, the situation and condition of swelling exactly ascertained, and then a probe-pointed knife inserted between the imprisoned bowel and band compressing it. and turned outward against the band, the latter being then cautiously divided and the imprisoned gut allowed to escape, or, if necessary, the bowel should he drawn gently from its position into the abdomen. The wound in the flank must be brought together in the same way as in the case of the wound made in operating for impaction of the rumen. WOUNDS OF THK ABDOMEN. A wound of the abdomen may merely penetrate the skin ; but as such cases are not attended Avith much danger, nor their treatment with much difficulty, we propose to consider here merely those wounds which penetrate the entire thickness of the abdominal walls and expose to a gi-eater or less extent the organs contained in that ca\aty. CoMses. — Such accidents may be occasioned by falling on fragments of broken glass or other sharp objects. A blow from the horn of another animal may produce a wound w'hich penetrates the abdomen. Exposure and protrusion of some of the abdominal organs may also be occasioned by the incautious use of caustics in the treatment of umbilical or ventral hernia. The parts which generally escape through an abdominal wound are the small intestine and floating colon. Symptoms. — AVhen the abdominal wound is small, the bowel ex- posed presents the appearance of a small round tumor, but in a few moments a loop of intestine may emerge from the opening. The ani- mal then shows symptoms of severe pain by pawing with his feet, which has the effect of accelerating the passage of new loops of in- testine through the wound, so that the mass which they form may even touch the gi-ound. The pain becomes so great that the ox now not only paws but lies down and rolls, thus tearing and crushing his 46 DISEASES OF CATTLE. bowels. In such cases it is best to slaughter the animal at once; but in the case of a valuable animal in which tearing and crushing of the bowels has not taken place, the bowels should be washed with freshly boiled water, reduced to the temperature of the body, and returned, and the wounds in the muscle and skin brought together in a manner somewhat similar to that which was described in speaking of ventral hernia. DISEASES OF THE LIVER AND SPLEEN. JAUNDICE (the yellows, OB CONGESTION OF THE LIVEB). [Plate IV. 1 When jaundice exists, there is a yellow appearance of the white of the eyes and of the mucous membrane of the mouth. A similar aspect of the skin may also be observed in animals which are either partly or altogether covered with white hair. Jaundice is then "merely a symptom of disease and ought to direct attention to ascertaining, if possible, the cause or causes which have given rise to it. A swollen condition of the mucous membrane of that part of the bowel called the duodenum may produce jaundice, as that mechanically closes the orifice of the biliary duct. In constipation there is an inactive or tor- pid condition of the bowel, and the bile which passes into the intes- tine may be absorbed and cause the yellow staining of jaundice. Jaundice is one of the symptoms of Texas fever. It may also arise from the presence of parasites or gallstones in the ducts, forming a mechanical obstruction to the onward flow of bile. The conditions under which jaundice most commonly calls for treatment are when cattle have been highly fed and kept in a state of inactivity. At such a time tliere is an excess of nutritive elements carried into the blood, which is associated with increased fullness of the portal vein and hepatic artery. When continued high feeding has produced this congested state of the liver, the functions of that organ become dis- ordered, so that a considerable portion of the bile, instead of being excreted and passing into the intestine, is absorbed by the hepatic veins. Symptoms. — This disease, although rare, occurs most frequently among stall-fed cattle. Pressure along the margin of the short ribs on the right side produces pain ; the appetite is poor and the animal shows hardly any inclination to drink ; the mucous membranes of the eye and mouth are yellow, the urine has a yellow or brown appear- ance, the animal lies down much and moves with reluctance, moans occasionally, and has a tottering gait. The ears and horns are alter- nately hot and cold ; in cows the secretion of milk is much diminished, and that which is secreted has a bitter taste; sometimes the animal has a dry, painful cough and presents a dull, stupefied appearance. DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 47 TreatTTient. — In such cases it is advisable to produce a free action of the bowels, so as to remove the usually congested condition of the portal vein and liver. For this purpose we recommend the adminis- tration of the following dose: Sulphate of soda, 16 ounces; molasses, 1 pint; warm water, 1 quart. The sulphate of soda is dissolved by stirring it up in tepid water. Following tliis the animal should have a heaping tablespoonful of artificial Carlsbad salt in the food three times daily. This treatment may be assisted by giving occasional mjections of warm water and soap. The diet should be laxative and moderate in quantity, and may consist of coarse bran mash, pulped roots, grass in. the season, and hay in moderate quantity. HEPATITIS (inflammation OF THE LIVEB). Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, and usually occurs as a complication of some infectious disease. It may also occur as a com- plication of gastro- intestinal catarrh, or in the hot weather from over- heating or damaged (putrid or fermented) foods. Symptoms. — The symptoms are sometimes obscure, and their real significance is frequently overlooked. The most prominent symp- toms are yellowness of the white of the eye and of the membrane lining the mouth; the appetite is poor, the body presents an emaci- ated appearance, the feces are light colored, while the urine is likely to be unusually dark; there is thirst, and pain is caused by pressing over the liver. The gait is weak, and the animal lies down more than usual, and while doing so frequently has its head turned around resting on the side of its chest. Treatment. — Give a purge of Glauber's salt, and after it has oper- ated give artificial Carlsbad salt in each feed, as advised under " Jaundice." Give green food and plenty of water. Oil of turpen- tine should be rubbed in well once a day over the region of the liver. The skin on which it should be applied extends from the false ribs on the right side to 6 inches in front of the last one, and from the backbone to 12 inches on the right side of it. the fluke disease. [See chapter on "The animal parasites of cattle," p. 518.] splenitis (inflammation of the spleen). This disease occurs almost solely as a result of the existence of some infectious disease, and the symptoms caused by it merge with the symptoms of the accompanying causative disease. The spleen is seriously involved, and becomes enlarged and soft in Texas fever, anthrax, and blood poisoning. 48 DISEASES OF CATTLE. DISEASES OF THE PERITONEUM. PERITONITIS. Peritonitis consists in an inflammation of the peritoneum, which is the thin, delicate membrane that lines the abdomen and covers the abdominal organs. Causes. — Wounds are the usual cause in cattle. The wound may be of the abdominal wall or of the intestines, stomach, or utenis; or inflammation may extend from one of the organs of the abdominal cavity to the peritoneum; so this disease may complicate enteritis or inflamed womb. A sharp metal body may perforate the vsecond stomach and allow the gastric contents to escape, irritating the peri- toneum. This disease may follow castration or operation for heniia. Symptoms. — A continuous or occasional shivering; the animal lies down, but appears uneasy; it frequently turns its head toward its belly and lows plaintively; pressure on the flanks produces pain; has no appetite ; muzzle is dry and no rumination ; while standing, its legs ai'e placed well under its body; pulse small and hard. The evacua- tions from the bowels are dry and hard. If this disease is compli- cated by the presence of inflammation of the bowels, the pain is more severe and the animal is more restless. The skin is cold and dry in the early stage of this disease, but in a more advanced stage this con- dition may be succeeded by heat of the skin and quick breathing. The fits of trembling, uneasiness, small and hard pulse, and tension of the left flank are symptoms the prcvsence of which would enable one to reach the conclusion that peritonitis exists. Post-mortem appearance. — The membrane lining the abdomen and covering the surface of the bowels is reddened to a greater or less extent, and there is usually considerable serous, or watery, fluid col- lected in the abdomen. Treatment. — When we have to do with the form of peritonitis re- sulting from an injury, as when the horn of another animal has been thrust through the abdominal walls, this lesion must be treated in accordance with directions before given, but the general treatment must be similar to that which follows. Peritonitis resulting from castration or from parturient fever musi: also be treated in connec- tion with the special conditions which give rise to it, as the general treatment of this disease must be modified to some extent by the exciting cause. The aim must be to discover and remove the cause. The cause must be treated according to its nature. Harms strongly recommends borax in the treatment of peritonitis. He gives 6 ounces in the first 24 hours, divided into three doses, and aftei-wards he gives G drams three times daily. Opium in doses of 2 to 3 drams may be given. DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 49 To bring on evacuations of the bowels it is better to give rectal injec- tions than to administer purges. The strength may be sustained by cotfee, whisky, or camphor. The body should be warmly clothed, and it is advisable, when prac- ticable, to have a blanket which has been wnmg out of hot water placed over the abdomen, then covered by several dry blankets, which are maintained in position by straps or ropes passing around the body. The wet blanket must be changed as it cools — the object of treatment being to warm the surface of the body and to determine as much blood to the skin as possible. The diet should consist of laxative food and drinks, such as linseed tea. If peritonitis assumes chronic form the diet should be nutritious, such as selected clover hay, linseed cake, grass, etc., and iodid of potassium should be given in gram doses dissolved in a pint of water three times a day. DROPSY OF THE ABDOMEN (ASCITES). In this disease there is a serous, or watery, effusion in the cavity of the abdomen. Causes. — AMien old animals are fed on innutritions food or when an animal is reduced by disease, they become anemic; or, in other words, their blood becomes impoverished and dropsy may follow this condition. An innutritions and insufficient diet will produce the same effect in young animals. It is one of the results of peritonitis, and may also arise from acute or chronic inflammation of the liver, such as is of common occurrence when flukes are present in the liver in large numbers. Heart disease and chronic lung disease may be followed by ascites. It is sometimes, in calves, a symptom of infes- tation with worms. SymptoTThS. — A gradual increase in the size of the abdomen at its lower part, while the flanks becomes hollow; pallor of the mucous membrane of the mouth and eye; weak and sluggish gait; want of appetite, and irregularity in ruminating. On percussion or tapping the surface* of the abdomen with the fingers, a dull sound is produced. If the hand and ann are oiled and passed into the rectum so far as possible, on moving the hand from one side to the other the fluctua- tion caused by the presence of fluid in the abdomen may be felt. Treatment. — If possible the cause must be discovered and removed. The diet should be nutritious, and in those cases where we have merely to deal with anemia (the bloodless state) arising from insuffi- cient diet, the use of tonics and diuretics, at the same time keeping the skin warm, may bring about a gradual absorption of the fluid contained in the abdomen. One of the following powders may be mixed with the animal's food three times a day ; or, if there is any uncertainty as to its being taken in that way, it should be mixed with 16923°— 12 4 50 DISEASES OF CATTLE. sirup, SO as to form a paste, and smeared well back on the animal's tongue with a flat wooden spoon : Carbonate of iron, 3 ounces ; pow- dered gentian, 3 ounces; powdered nitrate of potash, 3 ounces; mix and divide into 12 powders. The administration of purgatives which promote a watery discharge from the mucous surface of the bowels, also tends, by diminishing the sennn of the blood, to bring about absorption and a gradual removal of the fluid contained in the abdo- men. Large doses should not be given, but moderate doses should be administered morning and night, so as to produce a laxative effect on the bowels for some days. To attain this end the following may be used : Sulphate of soda, 8 ounces ; powdered ginger^ half an ounce ; mix in 2 quarts of tepid water and then give at one dose. DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. DESCRIPTION OF PLATES. Plate I : Position of the first stomach (paunch, rumen) on the left side: a, the situation of the rumen ; &, the spleen or milt resting on it ; c, the skin and muscles removed from the ribs to show position of the lungs and their relation to the paunch. Plate II : Fig. 1. Stomach of a full-grown sheep, i natural size. After ThauhofEer, from R. Meade Smith's Physiology of Domestic Animals: a, rumen, or first stomach ; b, reticulum, or second stomach ; c, omasum, or third stomach; d, abomasum, or fourth stomach; c, esophagus, or gullet, opening into first and second stomachs; /, opening of fourth stomach into small intestine; g, opening of second stomach into third; h, open- ing of third stomach into fourth. The lines indicate the course of the food in the stomachs. The incom- pletely masticated food passes down the esophagus, or gullet, into the first and second stomachs, in which a churning motion is kept up, carrying the food from side to side and from stomach to stomach. From the first stomach regurgitation takes place; that is, the food is returned through the gullet to the mouth to be more thoroughly mas- ticated, or chewed, and this constitutes what is known as " chewing the cud." From the second stomach the food passes into the third, and from the third into the fourth, or true, stomach, and from there into the intestines. Fig. 2. Stomach of ox. After Colin, from R. Meade Smith's Physiology of Domestic Animals : a, rumen ; &. reticulum ; c, omasum ; d, abomasum ; e, esophagus; /, opening of fourth stomach into small intestine. Fiirstenberg calculated that in an ox of 1,400 pounds weight the capacity of the stomach is as follows : Per cent. Rumen, 149.25 quarts, liquid measure 62.4 Reticulum, 23.77 quarts 10 Omasum, 36.98 quarts 15 Abomasum, 29.05 quarts 12.6 According to Colon — Quarts. The capacity of a beefs stomach is 266.81 Small intestine 69.74 Cecums 9. 51 Colon and rectum 25.58 Plate HI: Fig. 1. Clinical thermometer, i natural size. This is used to determine the temperature of the animal body. The thermometer is passed into the rectum after having been moistened with a little saliva from the mouth, 51 52 DISEASES OF CATTLE. Plate III — Continued. or after having had a little oil or lard rubbed upon it to facilitate its passage. There it is allowed to remain two or three minutes, then with- drawn, and the temperature read as in any ordinary thermometer. The clinical thermometer is made self -registering; that is, the mercury in the stem remains at the height to which it was forced by the heat of the body until it is shaken back into the bulb by taking hold of the upper portion of the instrument and giving it a short, sharp swing. The normal temperature of cattle varies from 100° to 103° F. In young animals it is somewhat higher than in old. The thermometer is a very useful instrument and frequently is the means by which disease is detected before the appearance of any external sign. Fig. 2. Simple probang. used to dislodge foreign bodies, like apples, potatoes, eggs, etc., which have become fastened or stuck in the esophagus, or gullet. Fig. 3. Grasping or forceps probang. This instrument, also intended to remove obstructions from the gullet, has a spring forceps at one end in the place of the cup-like arrangement at the end of the simple probang. The forceps are closed while the probang is being introduced ; their blades are regulated by a screw in the handle of the instrument. This probang is used to grasp and withdraw an article which may have lodged in the gullet and cannot be forced into the stomach by use of the simple probang. Fig. 4. Wooden gag, used when the probang is to be passed. The gag is a piece of wood which fits in the animal's mouth ; a cord passes over the head to hold it in place. The ceutral opening in the wood is intended for the passage of the probang. Figs. 5a and 5&. Trocar and cannula ; .5rt shows the trocar covered by the cannula ; 5&, the cannula from which tlie trocar has been withdrawn. This instrument is used when the rumen or first stomach becomes distended with gas. The trocar covered by the cannula is forced into the rumen, the trocar withdrawn, and the cannula allowed to remain until the gas has escaped. Fig. 6. Section at right angles through the abdominal wall, showing a hernia or rupture. Taken from D'Aborval, Diet, de Med., de Chir. et de Hyg. : a a. The abdominal muscles cut across ; v, opening in the abdominal wall permitting the intestines i i to pass through and out- ward between the abdominal wall and the skin; p p, peritoneum, or membrane lining the abdominal cavity, carried through the opening by the loop of intestine and forming the sac S, the outer walls of which are marked h f h. Plate IV: Fig. 1. The liver is composed of innumerable small lobules, from .^ to ^ inch in diameter. The lobules are held together by a small amount of fibrous tissue in which the bile ducts and larger blood vessels are lodged. Fig. 1 of the diagram illustrates the structure of a lobule; V V, interlobular veins or the veins between the lobules. These are branches of the portal vein, which carries blood from the stomach and intestines to the liver; c c, capillaries, or very fine blood vessels, extend- ing as a very fine network between the groups of liver cells from the Interlobular vein to the center of the lobule and emptying there into the intralobular vein to the center of the lobule ; v c, intralobular vein, or the vein within the lobule. This vessel passes out of the lobule and Diseases of Cattle. Diseases of Cattle. Stomach of Ruminant. Diseases of Cattle. II!IiniII I|l l lli lllipi !|lllll|li^l| l ! l lipi|lil | l | |.1|l l |l|l|i||i | |i |l 'l ip 5" '^ m J^ii,-*-- INSTRUMENTS USED IN TREATING DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE ORGANS. Diseases of Cattle. Microscopic Anatomy of the Liver. Diseases of Cattle Marx ftx)m Nature. Ergot in Hay. Diseases of Cattle Plate vi Marx, from nature Ergotism. DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 53 Plate IV — Continued. there becomes the siiblobular vein ; v s, sublobular vein. This joins other similar veins and helps to form the hepatic vein, through which the blood leaves the liver; d d, the position of the liver cells between the meshes of the capillaries; A A, branches of the hepatic artery to the interlobular connective tissue and the walls of the large veins and large bile ducts. These branches are seen at r r, and form the vena vascularis; v i', vena vascularis; i i, branches of the hepatic artery entering the substance of the lobule and connecting with capillaries from the interlobular vein. The use of the hepatic artery is to nourish the liver, while the other vessels carry blood to be modified by the liver cells in certain important directions; g, branches of the bile ducts, carrying bile from the various lobules into the gall bladder and into the intestines; x x, intralobular bile capillaries between the liver cells. These form a network of very minute tubes surrounding each ultimate cell which receives the bile as it is formed by the liver cells and carried outward as described. Fig. 2. Isolated liver cells: e, blood capillary; a, fine bile capillary channel. Plate V : Appearance of ergot in hay : 1, blue grass ; 2, timothy ; 3, wild rye; 4, red top. Ergot is a fungus which may affect any member of the grass family. The spore of the fungus, by some means brought in contact with the unde- veloped seed of the grass, grows, obliterates the seed, and practically takes its place. When hay affected with ergot is fed to animals it is productive of a characteristic and serious affection or poisoning known as ergotism. Plate VI : Illustrates the effects of ergot. The lower part of the limb of a cow, show- ing the loss of skin and flesh in a narrow ring around the pastern bone, and the exposure of the bone itself. POISONS AND POISONING. By v. T. Atkinson, V. S. [Revised in 1904 by Leonard Pearson, B. S., V. M. D.] DEFINITION OF A POISON. To clearly define the meaning of the word " poison " would be some- what diflficult. Even in law the word has never been defined, and when a definition is attempted we are apt to include either too much or too little. The following is perhaps as satisfactory a definition as may be given : A poison is a chemical substance having an inher- ent deleterious property rendering it capable in small quantities of producing serious functional disturbances upon gaining access to the system by the usual channels; or it is a substance which, when introduced into the system or applied externally, injures health or destroys life irrespective of mechanical means or thermal changes. The common conception of a poison is any substance which, in small quantity, will destroy life, except such as act by purely mechanical means, as, for example, powdered glass. Some substances that are not usually looked upon as poisons may destroy life if given in large doses, such as common salt. Other sub- stances which are perfectly harmless when taken into the body in the usual way are poisons if injected into the circulation, such as distilled water, milk, or glycerin. Living organisms are not " chem- ical substances," and are not considered in this connection. SOURCES OF POISONING. Poisoning may come from many causes, among the chief of which are the following : (1) Errors in medication. — By using the wrong substance or too large dose an animal may be poisoned. (2) The exposure of poisons iised for horticultural., technical., or other legitimate purposes. — Poisons used for spraying plants, disin- fecting, poisoning vermin, dipping sheep, painting, smelting, dyeing, or other purposes may be so handled as to come within the reach of animals. 54 POISONS ANI> POISONING. 55 (3) Damaged food. — Food that has undergone putrefaction or cer- tain kinds of fermentation or heating, or food that is infested with insects, may have become poisonous, producing forage poisoning, meat poisoning, cheese poisoning, etc. (4) Poisonotbs 'plants in the pasture or forage. (5) The hite or sting of a poisoncm insect or the hite of an animal. (6) Malicious poisoning. THE ACTION OF POISONS. This may be either local, and exerted directly on the tissues with which they come in contact, or remote, acting through the circula- tion or the nervous system; or both local and remote action may be exerted by the same drug. Poisons which act locally generally either destroy by corrosion the tissues with which they come in contact or by inhalation set up acute inflammation. "Wlien any corrosive agent is taken into the stomach in poisonous quantities, a group of symp- toms is developed which is common to all. The tissues with which the agent comes in contact are destroyed, sloughing and acute inflam- mation of the surrounding structures take place ; intense pain in the abdomen and death ensue. In a like manner, but with less rapidity, the same result is reached if the agent used be not of a sufficiently corrosive nature to destroy the tissues, but sufficiently irritating to set up acute inflammation of the mucous membrane of the digestive tract. If the poison exerts a remote influence alone, the action is quite differ- ent, little or no local effect being produced upon the digestive organs. To produce an effect on some part of the body distant from the channel of entrance, a poison must have been absorbed and carried in the blood to the central nervous system or other region involved. The poisonous effect of any substance is modified by the quantity used; by its chemical combinations; by the part of the animal struc- ture with which it comes in contact ; by the physical condition of the subject; and also by the rapidity with which the poison is excreted. As an illustration, opium may be given with safety in much larger doses to an animal suffering from acute pain than to one free from pain, and to an adult animal with greater safety than to a young one. The rapidity with which the poison is absorbed, owing to the part of the body with which it is brought in contact, is also an important factor. So marked is this quality that some agents which have the power of destroying life with almost absolute certainty when intro- duced beneath the skin, may be taken into the stomach without caus- ing inconvenience, as curara, the arrow poison, or the venomous se- cretion of the snake. Other agents in chemical combination may tend to intensify, lessen, or wholly neutralize the poisonous effect. For example, arsenic in itself has well-marked poisonous properties, 56 DISEASES OF CATTLE. but when brought in contact with dialyzed iron it forms an insohible compound and becomes innocuous. Idiosyncrasies are not so notice- able in cattle practice as in practice among human beings, but the' uncertainty with which some drugs exert their influence would lead us to believe that well-marked differences in susceptibility exist. Even in some cases a tolerance for poison is engendered, so that in a herd of animals equally exposed injurious or fatal effects do not appear with unifornrity. For example, among cattle that are com- pelled to drink water holding in solution a salt of lead the effects of the poisoning will be found varying all the way from fatality to imperceptibility. GENERAL, SYMPTOMS OF POISONING. It is not always easy to differentiate between poisoning and some disease. Indeed, examination during the life of the animal is some- times wholly inadequate to the formation of an opinion as to whether the case is one of poisoning or, if it is, as to what the poison may be. A chemical and physical examination after the death of the animal may be necessary to clear up the doubt. On the other hand, the symptoms may be of such a nature as to point unmistakably to poi- soning with a certain agent. In general, the following classes of symptoms may be regarded as indicative of poisoning: Sudden onset of the disease without visible cause, a number of animals similarly affected at once, severe gastro-intestinal disorder or derangement of the nervous system, or both. Sudden alteration of heart action in relation to fi'equency, force, or rhythm. Local irritation, dyspnea, or change in the urine or urination. After death lesions of the greatest variety may be found, and it is necessary for one to be skilled in anatomy and pathology to determine their significance. Oftentimes the stomach and intestines are red, have thick walls, and contain blood. This signifies a severe irritant, such as arsenic or corrosive sublimate. Other alterations sometimes found are inflammation of the kidneys or bladder, points of hemor- rhage in various organs, changes in the blood, congestion of the lungs, and certain microscopic changes. GENERAL TREATMENT. The treatment of animals suffering from poison must vary accord- ing to the nature of the toxic agent. There are a few general plans of action, however, which should be followed so far as possible. In man and in some of the smaller animals it is possible to eliminate unabsorbed poison by the use of the stomach pump or by causing vomiting. These proceedings are impracticable in cattle. It is well, therefore, in many cases to endeavor to expel the unabsorbed POISONS AND POISONING. 57 poison by emptying the digestive tract, so far as may be, with a non- irritating purge. Castor oil in doses of 1 pint to 2 quarts is best adapted to this pui^pose. If the poison is known to be nonirritant — as a narcotic plant — from 10 to 20 drops of croton oil may be given with a quart of castor oil. To protect the mucous membrane from the action of strong irritants one may give flaxseed tea. barley water, the whites of eggs, milk, butter, olive oil. or fresh lard. Chemical antidotes may sometimes be used for special poisons, as advised below. In general, if an acid has been taken it may be neutralized with an alkali, such as chalk, magnesia, bicarbonate of soda (baking soda), ammonia (diluted), or soap. If the poison is an alkali, such as caustic soda or i»tash (lye), or ammonia, an acid, such as diluted (1 per cent) sulphuric acid or vinegar, may be administered. Special treatments and antidotes are considered below. A poisonous agent may be so gradually introduced into the system as to slowly develop the power of resistance against its own action. In other cases, where the poison is introduced slowly, the poisonous action becomes cumulative, and although there is no increase in the quantity taken, violent symptoms are suddenly developed, as if the whole amount, the consumption of which may have extended over a considerable period, had been given in one dose. Other agents, poisonous in their nature, tend to deteriorate some of the important organs and. interfering with their natural functions, are productive of conditions of ill health which, although not necessarily fatal, are important. Such a class might properly be called chronic ]ioisons. Poisons of themselves dangerous when administered in large doses are used medicinally for curative purposes, and a very large percent- age of the pharmaceutical preparations used in the practice of medi- cine if given in excessive quantities might produce serious results. In the administration of medicines, therefore, care should be exer- cised not only that the animal is not poisoned by the administration of an excessive dose, but that injury is not done by continued treat- ment with medicines the administration of which is not called for. MINERAL POISONS. ARSKNIC POISONING. Of the common irritant and corrosive poisons, arsenic, especially one of its compounds (Paris green, Scheel's green, or cobalt) . is likely to be the most dangerous to our class of patients. The common prac- tice of using Paris green as an insecticide for the destruction of potato beetle and other insect enemies of the farmer and fruit grower has had the effect of introducing it into almost all farming establish- ments. White arsenic is also a principal ingredient in many of the popular sheep-dipping preparations, and poisoning from this source 58 DISEASES OF CATTLE. occasionally takes place when, after dipping, the flock are allowed to run in a yard in which there is loose fodder. The drippings from the wool of the sheep falling on the fodder render it poisonous, and dangerous to animal life if eaten. Familiarity with its use has in many instances tended to breed contempt for its potency as a poison. Rat poisons often contain arsenic. The excessive use of arsenic as a tonic, or of " condition powders " containing arsenic, has been the means of poisoning many animals. This is the common poison used by malicious persons with criminal intent. The poison may also be absorbed through wounds or through the skin if used as a dip or bath. If a large dose is given, at once acute poisoning is produced; if repeated small doses are given, chronic poisoning may result. The poisonous dose for an ox is from 3 drams to 1 ounce. Symptoms. — The symptoms of acute poisoning first appear as those of colic; the animal is restless, stamping with the feet, lying down and getting up. There is tenderness on pressure over the abdomen. The acute symptoms increase; in a few hours violent diarrhea is developed ; in many cases blood and shreds of detached mucous mem- brane are mixed with the evacuations. There is irregular and feeble pulse and respiration, and death is likely to supervene between the eighteenth hour and the third day. If the latter period is passed, there is a reasonable hope of recovery. In chronic poisoning the symptoms are similar to those of chronic gastro-intestinal catarrh, with indigestion, diarrhea, and general weakness and loss of condition. TreatTnent. — The antidote for arsenic is a solution of hydrated oxid of iron in water. It should be prepared fresh by mixing a solu- tion of sulphate of iron, made by dissolving 4 ounces of sulphate of iron in one-half pint water with a suspension of 1 ounce of magnesia in one-half pint water. This quantity is sufficient for one dose for a cow and may be repeated in an hour, if much arsenic was taken. A solution of calcined magnesia or powdered iron or iron filings or iron scale from a blacksmith's forge may be given in the absence of -other remedies. Powdered sulphur is of some value as an antidote. One must also administer protectives, such as linseed tea, barley water, whites of eggs, etc. LEAD POISONING, Lead poisoning of cattle usually comes from their having licked freshly painted surfaces, and thus swallowing compounds containing white lead. In several instances cattle have been poisoned by silage from a silo painted inside with lead paint shortly before filling. Sugar of lead has been administered by mistake for Glauber's salt. Lead poisoning may be acute or chronic. The fatal dose of sugar of lead is from 1 to 4 ounces. Water drawn from lead pipes or held in a lead-lined tank may cause poisoning. POISONS AND POISONING. 59 Symptoms. — Symptoms are generally dullness, lying down with the head turned toward the flank, colic, rumbling in the abdomen, loss of control of the limbs when walking, twitching, champing of the jaws, moving in a circle, convulsions, delirium, violent bellowing, fol- lowed by stupor and death. The symptoms generally extend over considerable time, but may end in death after 24 hours. Treatment. — The treatment should first be directed toward remov- ing the cause. A large dose of purgative medicine should be given, and the brain symptoms be relieved by giving bromid of potassium in half-ounce doses every 4 or 5 hours and the application of cold water to the head. Dilute sulphuric acid in half-ounce doses should be given with the purgative medicine. In this case sulphate of mag- nesia (Epsom salt) is the best purgative, and it may be given in doses of from 1 to 2 pounds dissolved in warm water. After the acute symptoms have abated, iodid of potassium may be given, in doses of 2 drams each, three times a day for a week. Chronic lead 'poisoning occasionally occurs in districts where lead mining is the principal industry. The waste products of the mine thrown into streams contaminate the water supply, so that the min- eral is taken into the system gradually, and a very small per cent of any of the salts taken into the system in this way is pernicious. Water which contains any salt of lead to the extent of more than one-tenth of a grain to the gallon is unfit to drink. Such water when Uvsed continually is likely to produce colic from the resulting intesti- nal irritation, and in aggravated cases paralysis more or less severe is likely to be developed. A blue line on the margin of the gums, the last symptom, is regarded as diagnostic and its presence as con- clusive evidence of the nature of the disorder. The free use of pur- gatives is indicated with iodid of potassium. Treatment. — No treatment is likely to be of avail until the cause is removed. COPPER POISONING. The soluble salts of copper, though used as a tonic in the medicinal treatment of cattle, are poisonous when taken in large quantities. Like lead and arsenic, they have an irritant effect upon the mucous membrane with which they come in contact in a concentrated form. Cattle are not very likely to be poisoned from this cause unless through carelessness. The salts of copper — the most common of which is the sulphate of copper, commonly called blue vitriol — is occasionally used for disinfecting and cleansing stables, where it might inadvertently be mixed with the food. It is also used largely for making the Bordeaux mixture used in spraying fruit trees. The general symptoms produced are those of intestinal irritation, short breathing, stamping, and tender abdomen. 60 DISEASES OF CATTLE. Treatment. — Give powdered iron, or iron reduced by hydrogen, or calcined magnesia. Sulphur may be used. This should be followed by a liberal supply of demulcents, linseed infusion, boiled starch, whites of eggs, etc. ZINC POISONING. Several of the soluble salts of zinc are irritant poisons. The chlorid and sulphate are those in most common use. In animals which have power to vomit they are emetic in their action. In others, when retained in the stomach, they set up more or less irri- tation of the mucous membrane and abdominal pain, producing symptoms already described in the action of other poisons which produce the same result. Treatment. — The treatment should be the same as for copper poi- soning. PHOSPHORUS POISONING. Only one of the forms of phosphorus in common use — the ordinary yellow — is poisonous. Phosphorus in this form is used for the destruction of rats and mice and other vermin, and is largely used in the manufacture of matches. Symptoms. — The symptoms are loss of appetite, colic, diarrhea, irritation of the mouth and throat, and paralysis of the throat. There is also weakness, difficult breathing, and rapid pulse. The course of the poisoning is usually rapid, terminating in either re- covery or death within three days. The toxic dose for cattle is from 5 to 30 grains. If taken in large quantities the excreta are occa- sionally noticed to be luminous when examined in the dark. Treatment. — Turpentine given in an emulsion with flaxseed tea in a single dose of from 2 to 8 ounces. Permanganate of potash may be given in a one-fourth of 1 per cent solution. Stimulants, such as alcohol and ether, should be administered. Oils and milk must not be given. MERCURY POISONINC. Mercury poisoning is not rare in cattle from the fact that these animals have a special susceptibility to the action of this substance. Antiseptic washes or injections containing the bichlorid of mercury (corrosive sublimate) must be used on cattle with great care. Mer- curial disinfecting solutions or salves must be used cautiously. Calomel can not be given freely to cattle. Symptoms.— The symptoms are salivation, sore mouth, indiges- tion, diarrhea, skin eruption, paralysis of local groups of muscles, and nephritis. Treatment.— The treatment consists in administering sulphur in large doses (2 to 4 ounces) or iron powder. Both make insoluble compounds with mercury. Follow with the whites of eggs mixed POISONS AND POISONING. 61 with water and with linseed tea. If the ease does not terminate promjDtly, give iodid of potash in 1-dram doses twice daily. POISONING BY ACIDS. Mineral acids. — The mineral acids — nitric, sulphuric, hydrochlo- ric, etc. — when used in a concentrated form destroy the animal tissues with which they come in contact, and in this respect differ from most of the poisons previously described. '\^lien taken into the stomach the mucous membrane of the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, and stomach is apt to be more or less completely destroyed. If taken in large quantities death is likely to result so speedily that nothing can be done to relieve the patient, and even if time is allowed and the action of the acid can be arrested it can not be done until consider- able and, perhaps, irreparable damage has been done. The mucous membrane with which the acid has come in contact in the esophagus may be destroyed by its corrosive action and carried away, leaving the muscidar tissues exposed. The raw surface heals irregularly, the cicatrice coi^acting causes stricture, and an animal so injured is likely to die of starvation. In the stomach even greater damage is likely to be done. The peristaltic action of the esophagus carries the irritant along quickly, but here it remains quiet in contact with one surface, destroying it. It is likely to perforate the organ and, coming in contact with the abdominal lining or other organ of di- gestion, soon sets up a condition that is beyond repair. In a less concentrated form, when this is not sufficiently strong to be corrosive, it exerts an irritant effect. In this form it may not do much harm unless taken in considerable quantity'. When thus the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines becomes inflamed, pain and diarrhea are likely to result. Treatment. — Any of the alkalies may be used as an antidote. Most convenient of these are chalk, baking soda, marble dust, mag- nesia, lime, soap, or plaster from a wall. Mucilaginous drinks should be given in large quantities. Vegetable acids. — Oxalic acid in particular is corrosive in its action when taken in concentrated solution, losing its corrosive effect and becoming irritant when more dilute. It also exerts a specific effect on the heart, frequently causing death from syncope. Taken in the form either of the crystals or solution it is likely to cause death in a very short time. Failure of heart action and the attendant small pulse, weakness, staggering, and convulsions are the more noticeable symptoms. Treatment. — Limewater or lime or plaster should be given promptly. Acetic acid is irritant to the gastro-intestinal tract, and may cause sudden paralysis of the heart. It should be counteracted by the use of alkalies, as advised above, by protectives to the diges- tive tract, and by stimulants. 62 DISEASES OF CATTLE. POISONING BY ALKALIES. The carbonates of potash and soda and the alkalies themselves in concentrated form cause symptoms of intestinal irritation similar to those produced by mineral acids. Ammonia, caustic soda, and caus- tic potash (l.ye) are those to which animals are most exposed. The degree of their caustic irritant effects depends on their degree of concentration. When they reach the stomach the symptoms are nearly as well marked as in the case of the acids. The irritation is even more noticeable, and purgation is likely to be a more prominent symptom. If death is not caused soon, the irritation of the gastro- intestinal tract and malnutrition will last for a long time. Treatment consists in neutralizing the alkali by an acid, such as dilute sulphuric acid (1 per cent) or strong vinegar. The administration of such an antidote and its action must be carefully watched during adminis- tration. In the chemical change which takes place when the acid and alkali are combined, carbonic-acid gas is liberated, which may be to an extent sufficient to cause considerable diste^ion of the abdo- men, even to asphyxia from pressure forward on the diaphragm. Should this danger present itself, it may be averted by opening the left flank, permitting the gas to escape. (See "Acute tympanites, or Bloating," p. 24.) Treatment. — Flaxseed or slippery-elm decoction must be given to soothe the inflamed mucous surface. Opium may be used to allay pain. COAL-OIL POISONING. Coal oil is sometimes administered empirically as a treatment for intestinal parasites. If given in large doses it produces poisonous effects, which are likely to be manifest some time after the adminis- tration. It acts as an irritant to the digestive tract, causing drib- bling of ropy saliva from the mouth, diarrhea, tenesmus, and loss of appetite, with increased temperature and cold extremities. Visible mucous membranes are injected, pupils of the eyes contracted, watery discharge from the eyes and nostrils. Remotely it exerts a depress- ing influence on the functions of the brain and slight coma, and occa- sionally convulsions, from which the animal is easily aroused. The kidneys also suffer. The urine is dark colored and has the charac- teristic odor of coal oil. Death may result from gastro-enteritis or convulsions. Treatment. — The patient's strength should be fostered by the fre- quent administration of mild stimulants, of which aromatic spirits of ammonia is perhaps the best. The animal should be encouraged to eat soft food and given mucilaginous drinks. POISONS AND POISONING. 63 Crude coal oil is sometimes applied to the skin to kill parasites. If too much is used, especially in hot weather, great weakness and depression may be caused and in some cases death may result. CARBOLIC-ACID POISONING. Although one of the most valuable antiseptic remedies, carbolic acid in a concentrated form, when taken internally or used over a large surface externally, is likely to produce poisonous effects. It causes whitening, shrinking, and numbness of the structures with which it comes in contact, and, besides its irritant effect, exerts a powerful influence on the nervous system. Being readily absorbed, it produces its effect whether swallowed, injected into the rectum, inhaled, or applied to wounds, or even to a large tract of unbroken skin. Used extensively as a dressing, it may produce nausea, dizzi- ness, and smoky or blackish colored urine. The last symptom is nearly always noticeable where the poisonous effect is produced. In more concentrated form, or used in larger quantities, convulsions, followed by fatal coma, are likely to take place. Even in smaller quantities, dullness, trembling, and disinclination for food often continues for several days. In a tolerably concentrated solution it coagulates albumen and acts as an astringent. Treatment. — As an antidote internally, a solution of sulphate of soda or sulphate of magnesia (Glauber'sor Epsom salts) may be given. The white of Qgg is also useful. Stimulants may be given if needed. When the poisoning occurs through too extensive applications to wounds or the skin, as in treatment of mange, cold water should be freely applied so as to wash off any of the acid that may still remain unabsorbed. As a surgical dressing a 3 per cent solution is strong enough for ordinary purposes. Water will not hold more than 5 per cent in permanent solution. No preparation stronger than the satu- rated solution should be used medicinally under any circumstances. SALTPETER POISONING. Both nitrate of soda and nitrate of potash are poisonous to cattle. These substances are used for manure and for preserving meats. They may be administered in a drench by error in place of Glauber's salt, or they may be exposed within reach of cattle and thus be eaten. The toxic dose depends upon the condition of fullness of the stomach. If in solution and given on an empty stomach, as little as 3 ounces of saltpeter (nitrate of potash) may be fatal to a cow. More of the Chile saltpeter (nitrate of soda) is required to cause serious trouble. Si/mptom^. — Severe gastro-enteritis, colic, tympanites, diarrhea, excessive urination, weakness, trembling, convulsions, collapse. Treatment. — Same as for poisoning by common salt. 64 DISEASES OF CATTLE. POISONING BY COMMON SALT. A few pounds (3 to 5) of common salt will produce well-marked signs of poisoning in cattle. So much salt as this will not be taken by cattle except under unusual conditions. If the food is poor in salt, and if none has been given for a long time, an intense " salt hun- ger " may occur that may lead an animal to eat a poisonous quantity if it is not restricted ; or an overdose of salt may be given by error as a drench. Herring and mackerel brine and pork pickle are also poisonous, and are especially dangerous for hogs. In these substances there are, in addition to salt, certain products extracted from the fish or meat which undergo change and add to the toxicity of the solution. Some- times saltpeter is present in such brines. Symptoms. — The symptoms are great thirst, abdominal pain, diar- rhea, poor appetite, redness and dryness of the mouth, increased uri- nation, paralysis of the hind legs, weak pulse, general paralysis, coma, and death in from six to eight hours. Treatment. — Allow as much warm water as the animal will drink, give protectives, such as linseed tea, etc. Linseed or olive oil may be given. To keep up the heart action give ether, alcohol, camphor, digitalis, or coffee. To allay pain, give opium. VEGETABLE POISONS. These may be divided into two classes — those that are likely to be administered to the animal as medicine or such as may be taken in the food, either in the shape of poisonous plants, or as plants or foods of vegetable origin that have been damaged by fungi or by bacterial action, producing fermentation or putrefaction. VEGETABLE POISONS USED AS MEDICINE. OPIUM POISONING. Opium and its alkaloid, morphia, are so commonly used in the practice of medicine that the poisonous result of an overdose is not uncommon. The common preparations are gimi opium, the inspis- sated juice of the poppy; powdered opium, made from the gum; tincture of opium, commonly called laudanum ; and the alkaloid or active principle, morphia. Laudanum has about one-eighth the strength of the gum or powder. Morphia is present in good opium to the extent of about 10 per cent. In medicine it is a most useful agent in allaying pain. It has an effect of first producing a stimulat- ing action, which is followed by drowsiness, a disposition to sleep or complete anesthesia, depending on the quantity of the drug used. In poisonous* doses a state of exhilaration is well marked at first. This is particularly noticeable in cattle and in horses. The animal becomes much excited, and this stage does not pass into insensibility POISONS AND POISONING. 65 unless an enormous dose has been given. If the dose is large enough, a second stage sometimes supervenes, in which the symptoms are those of congestion of the brain. The visible membranes have a blu- ish tint (cyanotic) from interference with the air supply. The breathing is slow, labored, and later stertorous; the pupils of the eyes are very much contracted ; the skin dry and warm. Gas accumulates in the stomach, so that tympanites is a prominent symptom. The patient may be aroused by great noise or the infliction of sharp pain, Avhen the breathing becomes more natural. A relapse into the coma- tose condition takes place when the excitement ceases. Later, there is perfect coma and the patient can no longer be aroused from the insensible condition. The contraction of the pupil becomes more marked, the breathing intermittent and slower, there is perspiration, the pulse more feeble and rapid, till death takes place. Poisoning of cattle with opium or its products rarely goes beyond the stage of excitement, because the quantity of the drug required for the later effects is so great. Seventy-five grains of morphia administered sub- ( utaneously has sufficed merely to excite for 12 hours. Treatment. — Give strong coffee, 1 to 4 quarts, aromatic ^pirits of ammonia or carbonate of ammonia. Atropia is the physiological antidote. STRYCHNIN POISONING. Strychnin is a very concentrated poison and produces its effect very quickly, usually only a few minutes being necessary if given in sufficient dose and in such a way that it will be at once absorbed. The first noticeable symptom is evidence of unrest or mental excite- ment ; at the same time the muscles over the shoulder and croup may be seen to quiver or twitch, and later there occurs a more or less well- marked convulsion; the head is jerked back, the back arched and leg extended, the eyes drawn. The spasm continues for only a few minutes, when it relaxes and another occurs in a short time. The return is hastened by excitement and in a short time again disap- pears, continuing to disappear and reappear until death results. As the poisonous effect advances the intervals between the spasms be- come shorter and less marked and the spasms more severe until the animal dies in violent struggles. Treatment. — The best method is to put the patient under the influ- ence of chloral, chloroform, or ether, and keep it there continuously until the effect of the poison has passed off. Alcohol may be given in large doses. ACONITE POISONING. In recent years tincture of aconite has for some unknown reason become a popular stable remedy. In the hands of some breeders it seems to be used as a panacea for all the ills flesh is heir to. If an 16023°— 12 5 66 DISEASES OF CATTLE. animal is ailing, aconite is given whether indicated or not. Fortu- nately the dose used is generally small, and for this reason the dam- age done is much less than it would otherwise be. Aconite is one of the most deadly poisons known. It produces paralysis of motion and sensation, depresses the heart's action, and causes death by paralysis of respiration. In large doses it causes profuse salivation, champing of the jaws, and attempts at swallowing. If not sufficient to cause death, there is impaired appetite with more or less nausea for some time after. In poisonous doses it causes the animal to tremble vio- lently, to lose power to support itself, and it brings on slight con- vulsions, with perspiration. The pulse is depressed, irregular, and afterwards intermittent. Treatment. — The chemical antidote is tannic acid, which forms an insoluble compound with the aconitin. The depressing effect on the heart should be counteracted by the use of ammonia, digitalis, alcohol, camphor, or other diffusible stimulants, which have a physiological effect opposite to aconite. TURPENTINE POISONING. Many conifers, but especially some species of pines, contain tur- pentine. In winter and early spring the ends of the branches of such trees may be eaten by cattle. If a sufficient quantity is con- sumed, poisoning may result. Symptoms. — The symptoms signify more or less severe irritation of the digestive and urinary tracts. There is poor appetite, abdominal pain, emaciation, dark urine, which may contain blood, difficulty in passing urine, constrained attitude, and sensitiveness to pressure over the loins. Later there may be excitation followed by depression of the nervous system. Treatment. — Change food. Give linseed tea, barley gruel, or slip- pery-elm bark infusion. For the excitement give chloral hydrate or bromid of potash. DIETETIC POISONS. A small but important group of poisons may be classed under this head. In some cases it is poison naturally belonging to the plant; in other cases the poisonous principle is developed in what would other- wise be harmless plants as a plant disease, or as a fermentation or putrefaction due to bacterial growth and observed in forage, grain, or meal that has heated, become damaged, or " spoilt." Loco WEED POISONING. — The " loco weed " is a term applied to legu minous plants of several genera, all of which are supposed to have certain similar effects on horses and cattle. It is found on the Plains and in the natural pastures of some of our Western States. The POISONS AND POISONING. 67 plant grows on high, gravelly, or sandy soil. It has a rather attractiA'e appearance, and retains its soft, pale green color all winter. Of one of the most common species {Astragalus mollissijnus) it may be said that a mass of leaves 4 to 10 inches high grow from the very short stem. The leaves are pinnate, similar in form to those of a locust tree, with ten pairs of leaflets and an odd terminal one. The flower scape grows from the center of the plant. The flowers, shaped like pea blossoms, appear in June or July, and are yellow tinted with violet. The seeds are contained in a pod about half an inch long. It is said that a stalk-boring larva has attacked the plant and seems to be doing much toward eradicating it. Horses and cattle seem to acquire a taste for loco weeds, although it is not a plant that would be considered as a food or that would be eaten with a relish the first time. In the early spring, when herbage is scarce, its green appearance may attract the animal, and the habit of eating it be thus acquired. Its effect is not noticeable till a con- siderable quantity has been eaten. It seems to exert its influence on the nervous system. The gait is slow and measured, the step high, the eyes glassy and staring, the vision defective. Sudden excitement will frequently produce convulsions, which, if the disease is well advanced, have a temporarilj^ prostrating effect upon the animal. Although loco poisoning is a nervous affection, emaciation is one of the most noticeable symptoms. The taste for the weed becomes stronger, the victim preferring it to other food. When it is taken in large quantities delirium is produced and the animal becomes vicious. If the cause be removed before too much injury is done, recovery is likely to take place. Treatment. — Medicinal treatment seems to be of little avail. Com- fortable stabling, quiet, and a liberal supply of wholesome food tend to counteract the poisonous effect of the plant and build up the depleted forces. Laurel poisoning. — The mountain laurel, the rhododendron, and the bay tree are poisonous for cattle. The foliage of these plants is most likely to be eaten in the late winter or spring, when there is little forage available. The effect is to cause great mental excite- ment, salivation, retching, colic, diarrhea, nerve exhaustion, and paralysis. Treatm-ent. — The treatment consists in administering protectives to soothe the gastro-intestinal mucous membrane, and stimulants to keep up the action of the heart and general strength. For this purpose one may use coffee, whisky, or ammonia. Other poisonous plants. — Other poisonous plants are the box, water hemlock, equisetum, lupine (under special conditions), tobacco, green acorns (when eaten in excessive quantities by horses or cattle), 68 DISEASES OF CATTLE. green sorghum and Kafir corn forage (when stunted or frosted), lily of the valley, aconite, oleander, jimson weed, green potatoes and po- tato sprouts, and poison rye grass {Lolium temulentum) . Ergotism. — The poisonous etfects of ergot (Pis. V, YI) appear chiefly in the winter and spring of the year and among cattle. It is developed among gi'asses grown on rich soil in hot, damp seasons. Eye seems more liable to ergot than any of our other crops. Of the grasses which enter into the composition of hay, bluegrass is the most likely to become affected. Ergot may also affect redtop, oats, grasses, and grains. On the plant the fungus manifests itself on the seeds, where it is easily recognized when the hay is examined in the mow. The ergotized seeds are several times larger than the natural seeds — hard, black, and generally curved in shape. The effect of the protracted use of ergot in the food is pretty well understood to be that of producing a degeneration and obstruction of the smaller arterial branches. The result is to shut off the blood sup- ply to the distal i)arts of the body, where the circulation is weakest, and thus to produce a mummification or dry gangrene of the extrem- ities, as the ears, tail, feet, etc. Cattle seem to be more susceptible than other animals to the influence of ergot, possibly on account of the slowness of the heart's action. When the effect of the poison has become sufficient to entirely arrest the circulation in any part, the structures soon die. The disorder manifests itself as lameness in one or more limbs; swelling about the ankle which may result in only a small slough or the loss of a toe, but it may circumscribe the limb at any point below the knee or hock by an indented ring, below which the tissues become dead. The indentation soon changes to a crack, which, like it, extends completely round the limb, forming the line of separation between the dead and living structures. The crack deepens till the parts below drop off without loss of blood, and fre- quently with very little pus. Ergot may cause serious irritation of the digestive tract, or by acting upon the nervous system it may cause letharg}' or paralysis. It also operates to cause contraction of the uterus, and may thus cause abortion. Treatment. — Regarding the treatment, change of food and local antiseptics are, of course, indicated. The former may be useful as a preventive, but when the symptoms have appeared the animal is nec- essarily so completely saturated that recovery is likely to be tedious. Tannin may be given internally in doses of one-half dram tw'ice daily for a few days to neutralize the unabsorbed alkaloids of the ergot. At the same time give castor oil. To dilate the blood vessels give chloral hydrate. Bathe the affected parts with hot water. If slough- ing has gone far, amputation must be resorted to. POISONS AND POISONING. OTHER POlSOiNOUS FUNGI. Many other fungi poison lierbivora. In some instances, however, where fungi are blamed for causing disease their presence on the foodstuff or herbage is but coincidental with some other and more potent disease-producing factor. For example, if the conditions are favorable to the growth of fungi they are also favorable to the growth of bacteria, and bacteria may produce poisons in foods. In general it may be said that any food that is moldy, musty, or putrid is possibly dangerous. Silage, properly cured, does not belong to this class, because the curing of silage is not a bacterial process. But spoiled silage and silage matted with mold is dangerous and should not be fed. POISONING BY ANIMAL PRODUCTS. SNAKE BITES. The poison contained in the tooth glands of certain venomous rep- tiles, particularly some of the snakes, which is injected into or under the skin of an animal bitten by the reptile, is a very powerful agent. It is likely to produce a serious local irritation, and in the case of the more poisonous snakes serious constitutional disturbances, even to causing death, which it may do in either of two ways: First, when very strong, by exerting a narcotic influence similar to that of some of the powerful poisons, checking heart action. Second, by diffused inflammation of the areolar tissue, gangrene, and extensive- sloughing. Symptoms. — The symptoms of snake bite are a local swelling caused by an intense local inflammation, pricks showing where the fangs penetrated, depression, weakness, feeble pulse, difficult breathing, bluish discoloration of the visible mucous membranes, stupor, or con- vulsions. If the poison is not powerful or plentiful enough to pro- duce death, it is, at any rate, likely to cause severe local abscesses or sloughs. Treatment. — The treatment nuiy be divided into local and general. Locally every effort should be made to prevent absorption of the poison. If discovered at once the bitten part had better be excised. If that. is impracticable and a ligature can be applied, as in the case of a bite to one of the limbs, no time should be lost in applying it above the injury. It should be made sufficiently tight to so far as possible arrest circulation in the bitten part. The wound should be freely incised, so that it will bleed freely, and the poison should be extracted by cupping or pressed out by squeezing with the fingers. Permanganate of potash in 5 per cent solution should be applied to and injected into the wound. The depressing effect of the poison on the general system should be counteracted by liberal drenching with stimulants, such as alcohol, coffee, digitalis, or the aromatic spirits or 70 DISEASES OF CATTLE. carbonate of ammonia. In animal practice the alcoholic stimulants and local treatment above described are likely to meet with best suc- cess. A special antitoxin for use in treating snake bite is now pre- pared and may be had from the leading druggists. It is quite effective if used promptly. WASP AND BEE STINGS. Wasps and bees secrete a poisonous substance which they are able to insert through the skin of an animal by the aid of their sharp stings. This poison is a severe local irritant, and may even cause local gangrene. It also has a depressing effect upon the central nervous system, and destroys the red-blood corpuscles. To produce these general effects it must be introduced in very large quantities, as when an animal is stung by a swarm of bees or wasps. Treatment. — The treatment is to wash the parts with diluted am- monia or permanganate of potash solution and to give stimulants internally. If there is so much swelling about the head and nostrils as to interfere with breathing, tracheotomy may be necessary. POISONING BY INSECTS ON THE FORAGE. Cattle grazing on forage heavily infested with caterpillars have been known to develop acute indigestion, colic, and, in a few cases, to die as a result of this poisoning. Plant lice cause irritation of the mouth and throat if eaten in large numbers. Some insects secrete a chemical poison which, taken in this way, causes serious digestive disturbance. POISONING WITH SPANISH FLY. Spanish fly, in the form of powdered cantharides, may be given in an overdose, or when applied as a blister to too large a surface of skin enough may be absorbed to poison. If given by the mouth it causes severe irritation of the gastro-intestinal tract, shown by saliva- tion, sore throat, colic, bloody diarrhea, etc. It also produces, whether given by the mouth or absorbed through the skin, irritation of the urinary tract, as shown by frequent and painful urination. If death rasults it is due to respiratory paralysis. Treatment. — Give protectives and the white of ^gg^ with opium. Do not give oils or alcohol. DISEASES OF THE HEART, BLOOD VESSELS, AND LYMPHATICS. By W. H. Habbaugh, V. S. [Revised in 1904 by Leonard Pearson, B. S., V. M. D.] The heart, blood vessels, and lymphatics may be described as the circulatory apparatus. The heart is located in the thoracic cavity (chest). It is conical in form, with the base or large part uppermost, while the apex, or point, rests just above the sternum (breastbone). It is situated between the right and left lungs, the apex inclining to the left, and owing to this circumstance the heart beats are best felt on the left side of the chest, behind the elbow. The heart may be considered as a hollow muscle, containing four compartments, two on each side. The upper compartments are called auricles and the lower ones are called ven- tricles. The right auricle and ventricle are completely separated from the left auricle and ventricle by a thick septum or wall, so that there is no communication between the right and left sides of the heart. At the bottom of each auricle is the auriculo-ventricular opening, each provided with a valve to close it when the heart contracts to force the blood into the arteries. In the interval between the con- tractions these valves hang down into the ventricles. The muscular tissue of the heart belongs to that clas3 known as involuntary, because its action is not controlled by the will. The cavities of the heart are lined by serous membrane, called the endocardium. The endocardium may be considered as continued into the veins and the arteries, forming their internal lining. The walls of the ventricles are thicker than those of the auricles, and the walls of the left ventricle are much thicker than those of the right. The heart is enveloped by a fibrous sac (or bag), called the pericar- dium, which assumes much of the general shape of the outer surface of the heart. The action of the heart is similar to that of a pump and its function is to keep the blood in circulation. The auricles may be considered as the reservoirs or receivers of the blood and the ventricles as the pump chambers. During the interval between contractions, the heart being in momentary repose, the blood pours into the auricles from the veins; the auriculo-ventricular orifices being widely open, the ven- tricles also receive blood ; the auricles contract and the ventricles are 71 72 DISEASES OF CATTLE. filled; contraction of the ventricles follows; the aiiriculo-ventricular valves are forced up by the pressure of the blood and close the aiiric- ulo-ventricular openings and prevent the return of blood into the auricles; the contraction of the ventricles forces the blood from the right ventricle into the lungs through the pulmonary artery and its branches, and from the left ventricle into the aorta and all parts of the body through the arteries. After the contraction of the ven- tricles the heart is again in momentary repose and being filled with blood, while the valves in the aorta and pulmonary aitery close to prevent the return of blood into the ventricles. (See PL VII.) The average weight of the heart of an ox is said to be from 3| to 5 pounds; but, of course, the weight must be very variable in different animals, owing to the many breeds and sizes of cattle. The vessels that convey the blood from the heart to all parts of the body are called arteries ; the vessels which return the blood to the heart are called veins. Between the ultimate ramifications of the arteries and the beginning of the veins there is an intermediate sys- tem of very minute vessels called capillaries, which connect the arterial wuth the venous system of the circulation. The walls of the arteries are possessed of a certain amount of rigidity, sufficient to keep the tubes open wdien they are empty. The blood leaves the left ventricle through a single vessel, the com- mon aorta, which divides into the anterior and posterior aortas, which in turn give off the large arteries. The arteries divide and subdivide (like the branches of a tree), become smaller and smaller, and ultimately ramify into every part of the body, terminating in a network of very small tubes called capil- laries, which can only be recognized by the aid of a microscope. The capillaries terminate in veins. The Aeins take the blood from the capillaries in all parts of the body. They begin in very small tubes, which unite to become larger in size and less in number as they approach the heart. In its course an artery is usually accompanied by a vein and in many situations by a nerve. The more important arteries are placed deep within the body; but in those cases where they are superficial they are generally found where least exposed to injury, as, for exam- ple, on the inner side of the legs. Arteries are less numerous than veins, and the total capacity of the arteries is much less than that of the veins. A great number of veins are in the tissue immediately beneath the skin, and these are not generally accompanied by arteries. The blood throughout its course, in the heart, arteries, capillaries, and veins, is inclosed within these vessels. There is no opening into the course of the blood, except where the large lymphatics empty into the venous blood. DISEASES OF HEAET, BLOOD VESSELS, AND LYMPHATICS. 73 All the arteries, except the pulmonary artery and its branches, carry bright-red blood, and all the veins, except the pulmonary veins, carry dark-red blood. The impure dark-red blood is collected from the capillary vessels and carried to the right auricle by the veins: it passes down into the right ventricle and thence into the pulmonary artery, and through its branches to the capillaries of the lungs, where the carbonic-acid gas and other impurities are given up to the air in the air cells of the lungs (through the thin walls between the capilla- ries and the air cells), and where it also absorbs from the air the oxygen gas necessary to sustain life, which changes it to the bright- red, pure blood. It passes from the capillaries to the branches of the pulmonary veins, which convey it to the left auricle of the heart ; it then passes through the auriculo-ventricular opening into the left ventricle, the contraction of which forces it through the common aorta into the posterior and anterior aortas, and through all the arteries of the body into the capillaries, where it parts with its oxygen and nutritive elements and where it absorbs carbonic-acid gas and becomes dark colored. (See theoretical diagram of the circulation, PI. VII.) The branches of certain arteries in different parts unite again after subdividing. This reuniting is called anastomosing, and assures a quota of blood to a part if one of the anastomosing arteries should be tied in case of hemorrhage, or should be destroyed by accident or operation. The various kinds of food, after being digested in the alimentary canal, are absorbed and carried into the blood by the lymphatics, and by the blood to the places where nutrition is required. The blood takes from all parts of the body all that is useless and no longer required, and carries it to the different organs where it is eliminated from the body. It contains within itself all the elements which nourish the body. The blood may be considered a fluid holding in solution certain inorganic elements and having certain bodies suspended in it. To facilitate description, the blood may be considered as being made up of the corpuscles and the liquor sanguinis. The corpuscles are of two kinds, the red and the white, the red being the most numerous. The color of the blood is due to the coloring matter in the red cor- puscles. The red corpuscles are the oxygen carriers. Both kinds are very minute bodies, which require the aid of the microscope to recognize them. The liquor sanguinis is composed of water contain- ing in solution salts, albumen, and the elements of fibrin. The lymphatics, or absorbents, are the vessels which carry the lymph and chyle in the blood. They begin as capillaries in all parts 74 DISEASES OF CATTLE. of the body, gradually uniting to form larger trunks. Placed along the course of the lymphatic vessels are glands, and in some situations these glands are collected into groups ; for example, in the groin, etc. These glands are often involved in inflammation arising from the absorption of deleterious matter. Absorption is the function of the lymphatics. The liquor san- guinis passes from the blood capillaries to supply nutrition to the tissues. All excess of the liquor sanguinis that is not required is absorbed by the lymphatic vessels and conveyed back to the blood by the lymphatic ducts. The lymphatics which proceed from the intes- tines convey the chyle into the blood during digestion. As a rule, the lymphatic vessels follow the course of the veins. All of the ab- sorbent vessels convey their contents to the thoracic duct and right great lymphatic vein, which empty into the anterior vena cava, where the lymph and chyle mix with the venous blood, and thus maintain the supply of nutritive elements in the blood. As fully explained, the heart pumps the blood throughout the arte- rial system. The arteries are always full and each contraction of the ventricle pumps more blood into them, which distends their elastic walls and sends a wave along them which gradually becomes less per- ceptible as it nears the very small arteries, and is lost before the capillaries are reached. This wave constitutes the pulse. The sen- sation or impression given to the finger when placed upon the artery shoAvs the force exerted by the heart and some important facts con- cerning the condition of the circulation. In cattle the average num- ber of pulsations in a minute (in adults) is from 50 to 60. The pulse is faster than normal after exercise, excitement, on hot days, from pain, and as a result of fullness of the stomach. In old animals it is sloAver than in the young and in males slightly slower than in females. In fevers and inflammations and in local diseases of the heart the pulse rate is increased. If the rate is greater than 100 or 110 to the minute the outlook for recovery is not good. Other variations of the pulse are known as infrequent pulse, which means that the number of pulsations in a given time is less than nor- mal. The irregular or the intermittent pulse is when the pulsations do not follow in regular order. The large pulse and the small pulse refer to the volume of the pulse, which may be larger or smaller than usual. The strong pulse and the feeble pulse refer to the strength or weakness of the pulsation. The pulse is said to be hard when the vessel feels hard and incompressible. The soft pulse is the reverse of the hard one. By dicrotic pulse is meant that kind of pulsation which makes each beat seem double, and therefore it is generally called the double pulse. DISEASES OF HEART, BLOOD VESSELS, AND LYMPHATICS, 75 The venous or " jugular pulse " is the pulsation so frequently observed in the jugular vein of cattle. It is particularly noticeable while they are ruminating — " chewing the cud." It is not always associated with disease, but may be a symptom of some disease of the heart; in such cases the jugular pulse is continuous. The location selected for feeling the pulse in cattle is where the submaxillary artery winds around the lower jaw bones, just at the lower edge of the flat muscle on the side of the cheek ; or, if the cow is lying down, the metacarpal artery on the back part of the fore fetlock is very convenient for the purpose. THE EXAMINATION OF THE HEART. Corresponding with the beats of the heart two sounds are emitted, which are of a definite type in healthy animals. The first is pro- duced by the contraction of the heart and the flow of blood out of it ; the second is caused by the rebound of blood in the aorta and the closure of the valves that prevent it from flowing backward into the heart, whence it came. The first sound is the longer and louder of the two, though of low pitch. The second sound is sharper and shorter, and it not always easy to hear in cattle. There is a brief interval between them. To appreciate these sounds, the ear is placed against the left side of the chest, a little above the point where the elbow rests when the animal is standing in a natural position and about opposite the sixth rib. The heart sounds are both reduced in intensity when the animal is weak or when the heart is forced away from the chest wall by col- lections of fluid or by tubercular or other growths. Nonrhythmical heart sound is often caused by pericarditis or by disease of the valves. It may also be due to overfilling of the heart upon the right side, as occurs in severe congestion of the lungs and in some febrile diseases. In pericarditis scraping, rubbing, or splashing sounds may be heard, entirely apart from the two normal sounds above described. The impulse of the heart, as felt by placing the hand against the chest, is of some consequence in arriving at a conclusion in respect to disease of the heart; but it must be remembered that the impulse may be very much increased by diseases other than those of the heart, as, for example, inflammation of various organs, severe pains, etc. The impulse may also be increased (when disease does not exist) by work, exercise, fright, or any cause of excitement, or, in general, by anything that causes acceleration of the pulse. The impulse of the heart may be felt and the sounds may be heard fairly well in lean cattle, but in fat ones it is difficult and often impossible to detect either impulse or sound with any degree of satis- faction. 76 DISEASES OF CATTLE. PALPITATION. When the impulse of the heart is excessive — that is, when it beats more or less tumultiiously — the familiar expression "palpitation of the heart " is applied ; and by many it is called " thumps."' The hand or ear placed against the chest easily detects the unnatural beating. In some cases it is so violent that the motion may be seen at a distance. Palpitation is but a symptom, and in many instances not connected with disease of the stmcture of the heart or its membranes. An animal badly frightened may have palpitation. Wlien it comes on suddenly and soon passes away, it depends on some cause other than disease of the heart ; but when it is gradually manifested, and becomes constant, although more pronounced at one time than another, heart disease may be suspected, especially if other symptoms of heart dis- ease are present. INJURY TO THE HEART BY FOREIGN BODIES. Cattle are addicted to the habit of chewing and swallowing many objects not intended as articles of food. Every veterinarian of expe- rience has met with instances to remind him of this, and it is well known to butchers. Among the great variety of things that have thus found their way into the stomachs of cattle the following have been noticed : Finger rings, knitting needles, old shoes, table knives, wood, pieces of leather, pieces of wire, buttons, hairpins, brushes, nails, coins, etc. The more shai^ly pointed objects sometimes pene- trate the wall of the stomach, during which they may or may not cause enough irritation of the stomach to produce indigestion, gradu- ally work their way through the diaphragm toward the heart, pierce the pericardium (bag inclosing the heart), wound the heart, and prove fatal to the animal. Cases are recorded in which the foreign body has actually worked its way into one of the cavities of the heart. However, instances are known in which the object took a different course, and finally worked its way toward the surface and was extracted from the wall of the chest. While it is possible that the object may pierce the wall at different parts of the alimentary canal, as it frequently does that of the rumen (paunch), it is thought that in the great majority of cases it passes through the wall of the reticu- lum (smaller honeycombed compartment, or second stomach) and is drawn toward the heart by the suction-like action of the chest. Post- mortem examinations have demonstrated the course it pursued, as adhesions and other results of the inflammation it caused were plainly to be seen. All manner of symptoms may precede those showing involvement of the heart, depending upon the location of the foreign body and the extent of inflammation caused by it. Severe indigestion may occur; stiffness and difficulty in moving about, due to the prods DISEASES OF HEAET, BLOOD VESSELS, AND LYMPHATICS. 77 of the sharp body following muscular contraction; pain on pressure over the front, lower, and right sides of the abdomen ; coughing and difficult, quick breathing. In most cases the foreign body does not penetrate to the heart, nor even to the pericardium. Symptoms. — The symptoms are as follows: The animal is disin- clined to move actively, the step is restricted and cautious, sudden motion causes grunting, the attitude is constrained, the feet are drawn somewhat together, the back is arched, the face has an anxious expression. If the disease is of some days' standing, there is likely to be soft swelling (edema) beneath the neck, in the dewlap, and under the chest, between the fore legs. Breathing is short and difficult; it may clearly be painful. The pulse is rapid, 80 to 120 per minute. The muscles quiver as though the animal were cold. Rumination and appetite are depressed or checked. The dung is hard, and to void it appears to cause pain. These symptoms usually develop gradually, and, of course, they vary considerably in different animals, depending upon the size and location of the foreign body and the irritation caused by it. As a matter of course, treatment in such cases is useless, but when it is possible to diagnose the case correctly the animal could be turned over to the butcher before the flesh becomes unfit for use; that is, before there is more than a little suppuration and before there is fever. Knowing that cattle are prone to swallow such objects, ordi- nary care may be exercised in keeping their surroundings as free of them as possible. PERICARDITIS. Inflammation of the pericardium (heart bag) is often associated with pneumonia and pleurisy, rheumatism, and other constitutional diseases, or with an injury. It also occurs as an independent affec- tion, due to causes similar to those of other chest affections, as expos- ure to cold or dampness and changes of the weather. Symptoms. — It may be ushered in with a chill, followed by fever, of more or less severity ; the animal stands still and dull, with head hanging Ioav, and anxiety expressed in its countenance. The pulse may be large, perhaps hard ; there is also a venous pulse. The hand against the chest will feel the beating of the heart, which is often irregular, sometimes violent, and in other instances weak, depending in part upon the amount of fluid that has transuded into the peri- cardial sac. Legs are cold, the breathing quickened and usually abdominal; if the left side of the chest be pressed on or struck, the animal evinces pain. There may be spasms of the muscles in the region of the breast, neck, or hind legs. After a time, which varies in length, the legs may become swollen, and swelling may also appear under the chest and brisket. 78 DISEASES OF CATTLE. In those animals in which the heart sounds may be heard somewhat distinctly, the ear ajDplied against the chest will detect a to-and-fro friction sound, corresponding to the beats of the heart. This sound is produced by the rubbing of the internal surface of the heart bag against the external surface of the heart. During the first stages of the inflammation these surfaces are dry, and the rubbing of one against the other during the contraction and relaxation of the heart produces this sound. The dry stage is followed by the exudation of fluid into the heart sac, and the friction is not heard until the fluid is absorbed sufficiently to allow the surfaces to come in contact again. But during the time the friction sound is lost a sound which has been called a " churning noise " may take its place. The friction sound of pericarditis can not be mistaken for the fric- tion sound of pleurisy if the examination is a careful one, because in the heart affection the sound is made in connection with the heart beats, while in the pleuritic affection the sound is synchronous with each respiration or breath of air taken in and expelled from the lungs. Treatinent. — When pericarditis is complicated with rheumatism or other diseases the latter must l)e treated as directed in the description of them. The animal must be kept in a quiet, comfortable place, where it will be free from excitement. Warm clothing should be applied to the body and the legs should be hand-rubbed until the cir- culation in them is reestablished, and then snugly bandaged. The food should be nutritive and in moderate quantity. Bleeding should not be performed unless the case is in the hands of an expert. At the beginning give as a purgative Epsom salt — 1 pound to an averaged-size cow — dissolved in about a quart of warm water and administered as a drench. When there is much pain 2 ounces of laudanum may be given, diluted with a pint of water, every three hours until relief is given. Do not give the laudanum unless de- manded by the severity of the pain, as it tends to constipation. Give one-half ounce of nitrate of potassium (saltpeter), dissolved in drink- ing water, four or five times a day. After the attack has abated mustard mixed with water may be rubbed well over the left side of the chest to stimulate the absorption of the fluid contained within the pericardium. The other medicines may be discontinued and the following administered : Sulphate of iron, 2 ounces ; powdered gen- tian, 6 ounces; mix and make 8 powders. Give one powder every day at noon, mixed with food, if the animal will eat it, or shaken up with water in a bottle as a drench. Also the following: lodid of potassium, 2 ounces; nitrate of potassium, 8 ounces; mix and make 16 powders. Give one in drinking water or in drench every morning and evening. The last two prescriptions may be contiued for several weeks if necessary. DISEASES OP HEART, BLOOD VESSELS, AND LYMPHATICS. 79 If at any time during the attack much weakness is manifested, give the following drench every three hours : Spirits of nitrous ether, 3 ounces; rectified spirits, 4 ounces; water, 1 pint; mix and give as a drench. In extreme cases tapping the pericardium with a trocar and cannula to draw off the fluid is resorted to, but the operation requires exact anatomical knowledge. After death from pericarditis there is always more or less fluid found in the pericardium ; the surfaces are rough and covered with a yellow-colored exudate. There are also in many cases adhesions to a greater or less extent between the heart and pericardium. MYOCARDITIS. Inflammation of the muscular structure of the heart occcurs in limited, circumscribed areas, as evidenced by post-mortem examina- tion, and it is probably always somewhat involved in connection with pericarditis and endocarditis. It may readily be inferred that if the whole organ were inflamed death would ensue immediately. Usually myocarditis results from the preexistence of blood poisoning or some infectious febrile disease. Symptoms. — The chief symptoms are those of heart weakness. The heart beat is fast, weak, and often irregular. Respiration is difficult and rapid. There is great general weakness and depression. Death comes on suddenly. Treatment. — Treatment consists in supporting the animal by the use of stimulants, such as alcohol, ammonia, coffee, digitalis, cam- phor, etc. Complete quiet must be provided, and the general care should be as in pericarditis. EXDOCARDITIS. Wlien the membrane which lines the cavities of the heart — the endocardium — suffers inflammation, the disease is called endocarditis. The cause is another disease, during which there is produced and admitted into the circulation substiinces that irritate the lining of the heart. These substances are usually livdng organisms, or it is pos- sible that in some cases they are chemical irritants. Endocarditis occurs as a complication or sequel to pneumonia, blood poisoning, inflammation of the womb, rheumatism, or severe wounds or ab- scesses. The symptoms are much the same as those of pericarditis, and it is difficult to discriminate between the two affections. There is a jugular pulse, the legs may become dropsical, and there is a tendency to faint if the head is elevated suddenly. The bellows-like sound is more distinct than it is in pericarditis. It is the most fatal of heart diseases, because of the liability of the formation of clots, which may adhere to the valves, change in the structure of the valves. 80 DISEASES OF CATTLE. and often a complication with an abnormal condition of the blood. Clots may be formed in the heart, and, being carried to other parts, prove fatal by interrupting the circulation in some vital organ. Similar treatment to that advised for myocarditis may be followed in this disease. VAL^'ES OF THE HEART. The valves are subject to abnormal growths and structural changes in chronic endocarditis or as a result of acute endocarditis. Some- times valves are torn by sudden extreme muscular effort, or an abnor- mality may be congenital. Cases are also reported in which thej'^ have been found ruptured. Symptom's. — The general symptoms are those of heart weakness, accompanied by congestion of the lungs and edema. Treatment. — Relief is sometimes afforded, but usually temporarily, by the use of stimulants, especially digitalis. RUPTURE OF THE HEART. Sudden effort, blows, or disease ma}' lead to nipture of the heart of the ox. The firet cause does not operate so often in cattle as in horses. Tuberculosis or ulceration from other causes, such as a foreign body, is the most common source of this accident. Rupture is shown by sudden fainting, followed very shortly by death. HYPERTROPHY AND DILATATION OF THE HEART. This is an enlargement of the heart, and may consist of the thicken- ing of the walls alone, or at the same time the cavities may be either enlarged or diminished in size. Dilatation of the cavities has been noticed as existing independently of thickened walls. In hypertrophy the sounds of the heart are loud and pronounced, and may be heard on both sides of the chest distinctly, and palpitation occurs to a greater or le&s extent. Luckily both conditions are very rare in cattle. Atrophy is the technical term for wasting of the muscular tissue. Atrophy of the heart is very rare among cattle, and is usually a result of other diseases. FATTY DEGENERATION OF THE HEART. This condition of the heart is met with in some cattle that are very fat, but it must be understood that the accumulation of fat around the heart is not referred to by this designation. In fatty degenera- tion the elements of the muscular tissue are replaced by fatty or oily granules. The muscle becomes weak, the heart contractions are insufficient, and heart weakness is shown by general weakness, short- ness of breath, and weak, rapid pulse. DISEASES OF HEART, BLOOD VESSELS, AND LYMPHATICS. 81 CYANOSIS. Owing to the most prominent symptom, this condition is also called " blue disease." It is seen occasionally in new-born calves. It is recognized by the blue color of the mucous membrane (easily seen by looking within the mouth and nostrils) , the coldne.ss of the surface of the body, and rapid, labored breathing. It is due to nonclosure of the foramen ovale, connecting the right with the left side of the heart, and the consequent mixing of the venous with the arterial blood. Calves so affected live but a short time. MISPLACEMENT OF THE HEART. Cases are recorded in which the heart has been found out of its natural position, sometimes located outside of the chest. This is a congenital condition, for which there is no remedy. A heifer calf with the heart entirely outside of the thoracic cavity and contained beneath the skin in the lower part of the neck was kept at the veteri- nary hospital of the University of Pennsylvania for two years, during which time it matured into a well-developed cow. W^OUNDS OF ARTERIES AND VEINS. When a blood vessel is opened it may be told at a glance whether it is an artery or a vein by simply bearing in mind that bright-red blood comes from arteries and dark-red from ^eins. When a vein or a very small artery is severed the blood flows from the vessel in a con- tinuous and even stream, but when one of the larger arteries is severed the blood comes from it in intermitting jets, or spurts, corresponding to the beats of the heart. It is well to call attention to the fact that the dark-red blood which flows or oozes from a wound soon becomes bright-redj because it gives up its carbonic-acid gas to the air, and absorbs oxygen gas from the air, which is exactly the change it under- goes in the capillaries of the lungs. The general treatment of wounds will be found in another section; here it is only necessary to refer briefly to some of the most practical methods used to arrest hemorrhages, as instances occur where an animal may lose much strength from the loss of blood, or even bleed to death unless action is prompt. BLEEDING ( HEMORRHAGE) . The severity of a hemorrhage depends upon the size of the vessel from which the blood escapes, though it may be stated that it is more serious when arteries are severed. If the wound in an artery is in the direction of its length, the blood escapes more freely than if the vessel is completely severed, because in the latter instance the severed ends retract, curl in, and may aid very much in arresting the flow. AATien 16923°— 12 6 82 DISEASES OF CATTLE. the blood merely oozes from the wound, and even in cases where it flows in a small stream, the forming of the clot arrests the hemorrhage in a comparatively short time. Slight hemorrhages may be checked by the continuous application to the wound of cold water, ice, or snow, as cold causes contraction of the small vessels. The water may be thrown on a wound from a hose, or dashed on it from the hand or a cup, or folds of cotton cloths may be held on the wound and kept wet. Ice or snow may be held against the wound, or they may be put in a bag and conveniently secured in position. Hot water of an average temperature of 115° to 120° F. injected into the vagina or womb is often efficient in arresting hemorrhages from those organs. Tow, raw cotton, lint, or sponges may be forced into a wound and held or bound there with bandages. This is an excellent method for checking the flow of blood until the arrival of an expert. If the flow persists, these articles may be saturated with tincture of iron, but it is not advisable to use the tincture of iron if it can be avoided, as it is a caustic, and retards healing by causing a slough. The articles may be saturated with vinegar in cases of neces- sity, or tannic acid or alum dissolved in water may be used instead. The article (whichever is used) should be. left in the wound suffi- ciently long to make sure that its removal will not be followed by a renewal of the hemorrhage. It must remain there one or two days in some instances. An iron heated until it is white and then pressed on the bleeding vessel for three or four seconds is occasionally used. It should be at white heat and applied for a moment only, or else the charred tissue will come away with the iron and thus defeat the purpose of its application. Compression may be applied in different ways, but only the most convenient will be mentioned. To many wounds bandages may easily be applied. The bandages may be made of linen, muslin, etc., suffi- cently wide and long, according to the nature of the wound and the region to be bandaged. Bed sheets torn in strips the full length make excellent bandages for this purpose. Cotton batting, tow, or a piece of sponge may be placed on the wound and firmly bound there with the bandages. In many instances ligating the vessel is necessary. A ligature is a piece of thread or string tied around the vessel. Ligating is almost entirely confined to arteries. Veins are not ligated unless very large (and even then only when other means are not available) on account of the danger of phlebitis, or inflammation of a vein. The ligature is tied around the end of the artery, but in some instances this is difficult, and it is necessary to include some of the adjacent tissue, although care should be taken that a nerve is not included. To apply a liga- DISEASES OF HEART, BLOOD VESSELS, AND LYMPHATICS. 83 ture, it is necessary to have artery forceps (tweezers or small pincers may suffice) by which to draw out the artery in order to tie the string around it. To grasp the vessel it may be necessary to sponge the blood from the wound so that the end will be exposed. In case the end of the bleeding artery has retracted, a sharp-pointed hook, called a tenaculum, is used to draw it out far enough to tie. The ligature should be drawn tightly, so that the middle and internal coats will be cut through. Another method of checking hemorrhage is called torsion. It con- sists in catching the end of the bleeding vessel, drawing it out a little, and then twisting it around a few times with the forceps, which lacer- ates the internal coats so that a check is effected. This is very effect- ual in small vessels, and is to be preferred to ligatures, because it leaves no foreign body in the wound. A needle or pin may be stuck through the edges of a wound, and a string passed around between the free ends and the skin (PI. XXVIII, fig. 10), or it may be passed around in the form of a figure 8, as is often done in the operation of bleeding from the jugular vein. ANEURISM. A circumscribed dilation of an artery, constituting a tumor which pulsates synchronously with the beats of the heart, is called aneurism. It is due to disease and rupture of one or two of the arterial coats. The true aneurism communicates with the interior of the artery and contains coagulated blood. They are so deeply seated in cattle that treatment is out of the question. These abnormalities are due to severe exertion, to old age, to fatty or calcareous degeneration, or to parasites in the blood vessels. Death is sudden when due to the rup- ture of an aneurism of a large artery, owing to internal hemorrhage. Sometimes spontaneous recovery occurs. As a rule no symptoms are caused in cattle by the presence of deep-seated aneurisms, and their presence is not suspected until after death. A false aneurism results from blood escaping from a wounded artery into the adjacent tissue, where it clots, and the wound, remain- ing open in the artery, causes pulsation in the tumor. THROMBOSIS (OBSTRUCTION) OF THE ARTERIES. Arteries become obstructed as a result of wounds and other injuries to them, as those resulting from the formation of an abscess or the extension of inflanunation from surrounding structures to the coats of an artery. Arteries are also obstructed by the breaking off of particles of a plug or clot, partly obstructing the aorta or other large artery. These small pieces (emboli) are floated to an artery that is too small to permit them to pass and are there securely held, pro- 84 DISEASES OF CATTLE. diicirig obstniction. Such obstructions are shown by loss of power in the muscles supplied by the obstructed artery and by excitation of the heart and respiration after exercise. The loss of power may not come into evidence until after exercise. Symptoms. — ^liile standing still or when walking slowly the ani- mal may appear to be normal, but after more active exercise a group of muscles, a leg, or both hind legs, may be handled with difficulty, causing lameness, and later there is practically a local paralysis. These symptoms disappear with rest. In some cases the collateral circulation develops in time, so that the parts receive sufficient blood and the symptoms disappear. INFLAMMATION OF VEINS (PHLEBITIS), When bleeding is performed without proper care or with unclean fleam or lancet, inflammation of the vein may result, or it may be caused by the animal rubbing the wound against some object. When inflammation follows the operation, the coats of the vein become enlarged ; so much so that the vessel may be felt hard and knotted beneath the skin, and when pressed on pain is evinced. A thin, watery discharge, tinged with blood, issues from the wound. When the pin is taken out it is found that the wound has not healed. The blood becomes coagulated in the vessel. In inflammation of the jugular the coagulation extends from the wound upward to the first large branch. Abscesses may form along the course of the vein. The inflanunation is followed by obliteration of that part in which coagulation exists. This is of small import, as cattle have an acces- sory jugidar vein which gi'adually enlarges and accommodates itself to the increased quantity of blood it must carry. Treatment. — The treatment for inflammation of the vein is to clip the hair from along the course of the affected vessel and apply a blister, the cerate of cantharides. Abscesses should be opened as soon as they form, because there is a possibility of the pus getting into the circulation. In the operation of bleeding the instruments should be clean and free from rust. If the skin is not sufficiently opened, or when closing the wound the skin is drawn out too much, blood may accumulate in the tissue, and if it does it should be removed by pressing absorbent cotton or a sponge on the part. Care should also be used in opening the vein, so that the instrument does not jjass entirely through both sides of the vein and open the artery beneath it. (See " Bleeding, p. 300.) Diseases of Cattle. Plate VII DISEASES OF THE HEART, BLOOD VESSELS, AND LYMPHATICS. DESCRIPTION OF PLATE. Plate VII: Diagrpji illustrating the circulation of the blood. The arrows indicate the direction in which the blood flows. The valves of the heart, situ- ated between the right auricle and ventricle, and left auricle and ventricle, and between the ventricles and large arteries, are represented by curveil lines. These valves are intended to prevent the flow of blood in a direction contrary to that indicated by the arrows. 85 NONCONTAGIOUS DISEASES OF THE OEGANS OF RESPIRATION. By William Hebbert Lowe, D. V. S. [Revised in 1904 by the author.] In the determination of disease in the human being the physician is aided by both subjective and objective symptoms in making his diag- nosis; but the veterinary physician, in a very large majority of cases, is obliged to rely almost solely upon objective symptoms, and perhaps in no class of diseases is this more true than in the exploration of those under consideration. This condition of affairs has a strong tendency to develop observation and discernment in the veterinarian, and not infrequently do we find that the successful veterinary prac- titioner is a very accurate diagnostician. But in order to make a differential diagnosis it is not only necessary to have a knowledge of the structure and functions of the organs in health, but to adojit a rigid system of details of examination, without which successful re- sults can not be reached. History. — The history of a case should always be ascertained so far as possible. The information obtained is sometimes unsatisfactory and not to be depended upon, but even when such is the case it is advisable to weigh the evidence from every point of view. In connection with the history of every case it is always of primary importance to ascertain the cause of illness. A knowledge of the origin and development of a disease is important, both in making a diagnosis and in formulating the treatment. Exposure to cold and dampness is frequently the exciting cause of affections of the organs of respiration. The experienced practitioner is always sure to ascertain whether the particular animal he is called on to attend is the only one in the stable or on the premises that is similarly affected. If several ani- mals are similarly affected, the disease may have a common cause, which may or may not be of an infectious nature. Another thing that the experienced practitioner ascertains is what previous treatment, if any, the animal has had. Medicine given in excessive doses sometimes produces symptoms resembling those of disease. NONCONTAGIOUS DISEASES OF RESPIRATION ORGANS. 87 The hygienic and sanitary conditions have always to be considered in connection with the cause as well as the treatment of disease. Much of the disease which occurs in large dairies, as well as else- where, could be prevented if owners and those in charge of animals had proper regard for the fundamental laws of animal hygiene and modern sanitation. Disregard for these laws is the cause of most of the diseases under consideration in this chapter. Attitude and general condition. — The feeling of pain in animals suffering from serious affections of the organs of respiration is expressed to the close observer in no uncertain language — by their flinching when the painful part is touched; by the care with which they move or lie down; by wallcing or standing to " favor " the part; by the general attitude and expression of the eye ; by the distress and suffering apparent in the face of the sick animal; and by other evidences. The general physical condition and attitude of the sick animal tell much to the careful observer that aids him in making a diagnosis and prognosis. Cows suffering from affections of the organs of respira- tion usually assume a position or attitude that is characteristic, well known to experienced stockmen as well as to veterinarians. AVhen an animal has a fever or is suffering from an inflammation, the skin is one of the first parts of the body to undergo a change that is apparent to the average observer. The skin soon loses its elasticity and tone, and the hair becomes dry and staring. From the general condition or state of nutrition one is able to judge the effect that the disease has already had upon the animal and to estimate the amount of strength remaining available for its restora- tion to health ; from the amount of emaciation one can approximate as to the length of time the animal has been ill. The age and breed of the animal, as well as its constitution and temperament, are among the things that have to be taken into account in making a diagnosis and in overcoming the disease. The rrmcous membraroe. — The mucous membrane should in all cases be examined. It can be readily seen by everting the eyelids or by an inspection of the lining membrane of the nostrils. Paleness of the mucous membrane indicates weak circulation or poor blood. It may result from inappropriate food, from disease, or from hemorrhage. In healthy animals increased redness of the mucous membrane occurs from pain, excitement^ severe exertion, and in such instances is always transitoi-y. In certain pathological conditions, such as fevers and inflammation, this condition of the mucous membrane will also be found. The increased redness of the mucous membrane lasts during the duration of the fever or inflammation. 88 DISEASES OF CATTLE. A bluish or blue mucous membrane indicates that the blood is imperfectly oxidized and contains an excess of carbon dioxid, and is seen in serious diseases of the respiratory tract, such as pneumonia and in heart failure. The secretions. — The secretions may be either diminished, in- creased; or perverted. In the early stage of an inflammation of a secretory organ its secretion is diminished. In the early stage of pleurisy the serous membrane is diy, and as the disease advances the membrane becomes unnaturally moist. The products of secretion are sometimes gi-eatly changed in character from the secretion in health, becoming excessively irritant and yielding evidence of chemi- cal and other alterations in the character of the secretion. Cough. — Cough depends upon a reflex nervous action, and may be primai"y Avhen the irritation exists in the lungs or air passages, or secondary when due to irritation of the stomachy intestines, or other parts having nei-^ous communications with the respiratoi-y apparatus. A cough is said to be dry, moist, hai-sh, hollow, difficult, paroxysmal, suppressed, sympathetic, etc., according to its character. Cough is a very important symptom, often being diagnostic in diseases of the respiratory organs ; but this is a subject which can be more satisfac- torily treated in connection with the special diseases of the organs in question. Respiration. — In making an examination of an animal observe the depth, frequency, quickness, facility, and the nature of the respira- tory movements. They may be quick or slow, frequent or infrequent, deep or imperfect, labored, unequal, irregular, etc., each of which has its significance to the educated and experienced A^eterinarian. Sleep, rumination, pregnancy in cows, etc., modify the respiratory movements even in health. Respiration consists of two acts — inspira- tion and expiration. The function of respiration is to take in oxygen from the atmospheric air, which is essential for the mainte- nance of life, and to exhale the deleterious gas known as "carbon dioxid." The frequency of the respiratory movements is determined by observ'ing the motions of the nostrils or of the flanks. The normal rate of respiration for a healthy animal of the bovine species is from 15 to 18 times per minute. The extent of the respiratory sys- tem renders it liable to become affected by contiguity to many parts, and its nervous connections are very important. Rapid, irregular, or difficult breathing is known as dyspnea, and the animal in all such cases has difficulty in obtaining the amount of oxygen that it requires. Among the conditions that give rise to dyspnea may be mentioned restricted area of active lung tissue, due to filling of portions of the lungs with inflammatory exudate, as in pneumonia; painful movements of the chest, as in rheumatism or NONCONTAGIOUS DISEASES OF EESPIRATION ORGANS. 89 pleurisy ; fluid in the chest cavity, as in hydrothorax ; adhesions be- tween the kings and chest walls ; compression of the lungs or loss of elasticity; excess of carbon dioxid in the blood; weakness of the respiratory passages; tumors of the nose and paralysis of the throat; swellings of the throat; foreign bodies and constriction of the air passages leading to the lungs; fevers, etc. As already alluded to it is only the careful and constant examina- tion of animals in health that will enable one properly to appreciate abnormal conditions. One must become familiar with the frequency and character of the pulse and of the respirations, must know the temperature of the animal in health, before changes in abnormal con- ditions can be properly appreciated. Temper attire. — The temperature should l)e taken in all cases of sickness. Experienced practitioners can approximate the patient's temperature with remarkable accuracy, but I would strongly recom- mend the use of the self -registering clinical thermometer, which is a most valuable instrument in diagnosing diseases. (See PI. Ill, fig. 1.) It is advisable that a tested instrument be procured, as some thermometers in the market are inaccurate and misleading. The proper place to insert the thermometer is in the rectum. The instru- ment should be rested against the walls of the cavity for about three minutes. The normal temperature of the bovine is 101° to 102° F., which is higher than that of the horse. A cow breathes faster, her heart beats faster, and her internal temperature is higher than that of the horse. Ordinary physiological influences — such as exercise, digestion, etc. — give rise to slight variations of intenial temperature; but if the temperature rises two or three degrees above the standard some diseased condition is indicated. Pulse. — The pulse in a grown animal of the bovine species in a state of good health beats from 45 to 55 times per minute. Exercise, fright, fear, excitement, overfeeding, pregnancy, and other phys- iological conditions, as well as disease, may affect the frequency and character of the pulse. It assumes various character according to its rapidity of beat, frequency of occurrence, resistance to pressure, regularity, and perceptibility. Thus we have the quick and slow, frequent and infrequent, hard and soft, full and imperceptible, large and small pulses, the characters of which may be determined from their names; also that form known as the intermittent, either regular or irregular. We may have a dicrotic, or double pulse; a thready pulse, which is extremely small and scarcely perceptible ; the venous, or jugular, pulse; the '' running down '' pulse, and so on. (See p. 74.) In cattle the pulse is conveniently felt over the submaxillary artery where it winds around the lower jawbone, just at the lower edge of the flat muscle on the side of the cheek. If the cow- is lying down the pulse may be taken from the metacarpal artery on the back part of 90 DISEASES OF CATTLE. the fore fetlock. The pulsations can be felt from any superficial artery, but in order to ascertain the peculiarities it is necessary to select an artery that may be pressed against a bone. There is a marked difference in the normal or physiological pulse of the horse and that of the cow, that of the horse being full and rather tense, while in the cow it is soft and rolling. The pulse is faster in young and in old cattle than it is in those of middle age. Auscultation. — Auscultation and percussion are the chief methods employed to determine the various pathological changes that occur in the respiratory organs. Auscultation is the act of listening, and may be either mediate or immediate. Mediate auscultation is accom- plished by aid of an instnmient known as the stethoscope, one ex- tremity of which is applied to the ear and the other to the chest of the animal. In immediate auscultation the ear is applied directly to the part. Immediate auscultation will answer in a large majority of cases. Auscultation is resorted to in cardiac and certain abdominal diseases, but it is mainly employed for determining the condition of the lungs and air passages. Animals can not give the various phases of respiration on demand, as can the patients of the human practi- tioner. The organs themselves are less accessible than in man, owing to the greater bulk of tissue surrounding them and the pectoral posi- tion of the fore extremities, all of which render it more difficult in determining pathological conditions. (See PI. VIII.) The air going in and out of the lungs makes a certain soft, rustling sound, known as the vesicular murmur, which can be heard distinctly in a healthy state of the animal, especially upon inspiration. Exer- cise accelerates the rate of respiration and intensifies this sound. The vesicular murmur is heard only where the lung contains air and its function is active. The vesicular murmur is weakened as inflam- matory infiltration takes place and when the lungs are compressed by fluids in the thoracic cavity, and disappears when the lung becomes solidified in pneumonia or the chest cavity filled with fluid as in hydrothorax. The bronchial murmur is a harsh, blowing sound, heard in normal conditions by applying the ear over the lower part of the trachea, and may be heard to a limited extent in the anterior portions of the lungs after severe exercise. The bronchial murmur when heard over other portions of the lungs generally signifies that the lung tissue has become more or less solidified or that fluid has collected in the chest cavity. Other sounds, known as mucous rales, are heard in the lungs in pneumonia after the solidified parts begin to break down at the end of the disease and in bronchitis where there is an excess of secretion, as well as in other conditions. Mucous rales are of a gurgling or bubbling nature. They are caused by air rushing through tubes con- taining secretions or pus. They are said to be large or small as they Diseases of Cattle NONCONTAGIOUS DISEASES OF RESPIRATION ORGANS. 91 are distinct or indistinct, depending upon tiie quantity of fluid that is present and the size of the tubes in which the sound is produced. According to their character they are divided into dry and moist. The friction sound is produced by the rubbing together of roughened surfaces and is characteristic of pleurisy. Percussion. — Percussion is that mode of examination by which we elicit sounds by striking or tapping over the part. It may be direct or indirect. If the middle finger of the left hand is placed firmly on the chest and smartly tapped or struck with the ends of the first three fingers of the right hand, the sound will be noticed to be more reso- nant and clear than when the same procedure is practiced on a solid part of the body. This is because the lungs are not solid, but are always, in health, well expanded with air. But in certain pulmonary diseases, as in pneumonia, they fill up and become solid, when the sound given out by percussing theni is dull, like that on any other solid part of the animal. When fluid has collected in the lower part of the chest cavity the sound will also be dull on percussion. Wliere there is an excess of air in the chest cavity, as in emphysema or in pneumothorax, the percussion sound becomes abnormally loud and clear. By practice on healthy animals the character and boundaries of the sounds can be so well determined that any variations from them will be readily detected, and will sometimes disclose the pres- ence of a diseased condition when nothing else will. Percussion is sometimes practiced with the aid of a special percus- sion hammer and an object to strike upon known as a pleximeter. A percussion hammer is made of rubber or has a rubl>er tip, so that when the pleximeter, which is placed against the side of the animal, is struck the impact will not be accompanied by a noise. A percus- sion hammer and pleximeter can be purchased from any veterinary instrument maker. CATARRH (cold IN THE HEAd). Nasal catarrh is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nostrils and upper air passages. Simple catarrh is not a serious disease in itself, but if neglected is liable to be complicated with laryngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, pleurisy, and other diseases of the respirator}'' organs, which are of a serious nature and sometimes fatal. Catarrh is a common disease among cattle. It is often due to sudden exposure to wet and cold after they have been accustomed to shelter. It may arise from inhalation of irritating gases. It is sometimes due to certain specific atmospheric conditions, and may assume an enzootic form. It is very debilitating, and requires prompt and judicious treatment. Siym-ptoms. — Redness of the mucous membranes of the nose, redness and watering of the eyes. The mucous membrane first becomes dry ; 92 DISEASES OF CATTLE. afterwards a watery discharge appears, and later on in severe cases the discharge becomes mucopurulent. In mild cases there is little or no fever, but in severe cases the fever may run high. The animal becomes dull, languid, and is not inclined to move about, and the ap- petite may become impaired; there is variable temperature of the horns and ears. If in a cow giving milk, the secretion diminishes; the mucus from the eyes and nose becomes thicker and yellower. Afterwards, as the symptoms increase in severity, the discharge be- comes mucopurulent. Treatment. — The animal should be housed in a well-ventilated place, with good hygenic surroundings. In cold and damp weather it should be kept warm with blanketing. Give hot, medicated inha- lations in severe cases. If the fever is high this may be reduced by giving nitrate of potassium, from 1 to 2 ounces, in the drinking water, three times daily. Diffusible stimulants are beneficial in most cases. Too much importance can not be attached to good nursing. There is no necessity to resort to the old system of bleeding, purging, or the use of powerful sedatives. EPISTAXIS (bleeding FROM THE NOSe). Bleeding from the nostrils is rather rare in cattle. It may arise from any one of a variety of causes, but usually results from disease or injury to the mucous membranes, or to violent exertions in cough- ing and sneezing. It is seldom serious. The bleeding generally oc- curs in drops from one nostril only, accompanied by sneezing, and without frothing. Bleeding from the lungs comes from both nostrils, is bright red, frothy, and accompanied by a cough. Treatment. — In many cases the bleeding will cease spontaneously and all that is necessary is to keep the animal quiet and bathe the head and nostrils with cold water. Ascertain the cause of the bleed- ing and be governed accordingly in the treatment. In severe and exceptional cases, where the hemorrhage is persistent and long con- tinued, tie the animal's head to a high rack or beam and apply cold water, ice, or have recourse to styptic injections. If the hemorrhage is profuse and persistent, give either a drench composed of 1| drams of acetate of lead dissolved in a pint of water or 1| drams of gallic acid dissolved in a pint of water. LARYNGITIS (sORE THROAt). Laryngitis consists of an inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the larynx. It may be either a primary or a secondary disease, complicated or uncomplicated. In the majority of cases it is due to some form of exposure, a sudden change from warm to cold surround- NOXCONTAGIOUS DISEASES OF EESPIEATIOX OEGANS. 93 ings, or exposure to cold stomis. It may also arise from inhaling irritating gases. It may be the result of external violence. In an acute attack of laryngitis there is an elevation of temperature, pain on pressure over the region of the larynx, violent paroxysms of cough- ing, difficult and noisy respiration. The nostrils are dilated, the nose extended, and the animal has a frightened expression. There is marked difficulty in swallowing. Treatment. — This consists of fomentations and hot applications over the throat. Stimulating liniments, mustard mixed with cold water and well rubbed in with a stiff brush, or other forms of counter- irritation may be applied in severe cases. Hot inhalations should be frequently resorted to, and often afford much relief to the suffering animal. In this disease medicines should be given so far as possible in the form of electuaries {soft solid) on account of the difficulty of deglutition. Large drafts of medicines have a tendency to produce violent spells of coughing, and in this way retard recovery. The subjoined formula for an electuary will be found to answer the pur- pose in ordinary cases : Chlorate of potassium, pulverized, 8 ounces ; fluid extract of belladonna, 2 ounces; powdered opium. 1 ounce; pow- dered licorice root, 8 ounces; sirup, sufficient quantity; mix. At frequent intervals place a small tablespoonful of the mixture on the tongue or back teeth. Or the following may be used instead: Aloes, powdered opium, and gum camphor in equal parts; mix. Rub an ounce on the molar teeth every four or five ho\irs. The bowels should be kept open and the diet should be such as the patient can easily swallow. "Warm, sloppy mashes, boiled oatmeal gruel, linseed tea, and the like are the most suitable substances. If suffocation be threatened during the course of the disease tracheotomy should be performed without delay. The details of the operation are fully described under the head of " Surgical operations." (See. p. 302.) TSIien the disease assumes a chronic form strong counterirritation is indicated. A cantharides blister may be applied, or the following ointment may be used: Biniodid of mercury 1 part, lard 6 parts; mix. In some cases it will be found necessary to repeat the above application. BRONCHITIS. Bronchitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bronchial tubes. When a primary disease it is generally the result of what is commonly known as " catching cold." It may be sec- ondary to or complicated with many of the diseases of the respiratory system. It may also be caused by breathing irritating gases; or by the introduction of foreign bodies into the bronchial tubes, which sometimes results from injudicious and careless drenching when the 94 DISEASES OF CATTLE. larynx is in a temporarily relaxed state. It may be acute or chronic, and is divided, according to the seat of the irLflammation, into bron- chitis proper where the large tubes are affected, or capillary bron- chitis where the smaller tubes are affected. SymptotJis. — Loss of appetite, elevation of temperature, generally 104° or 105° F. The inspiration is incomplete, short, and painful, and the expiration is prolonged. Tlie pulse is increased in fre- quency and is hard. A characteristic and painful cough is present, but it is paroxysmal and incomplete. Auscultation and percussion greatly aid us in a diagnosis. A normal sound is observed on per- cussion. On auscultation, in the early stages, rhonchus rales are detected if the larger tubes are affected, and sibilant rales if the smaller tubes are affected. Later on mucous rales are noted, and sometimes all sounds in certain parts are absent, which is due to the plugging up of the tubes. This plugging of the tubes, if extensive enough, is sometimes the cause of death, or death may result from extension of the disease to the lungs or pleura. Treatment. — Tlie animal should be placed in a light well-venti- lated box, and the bowels kept in a soft condition by enemas, etc. Avoid violent purgatives. The body should be kept warm by blank- eting. In the early stages give three times daily a draft composed as follows: Extract of belladonna, 2 drams; solution of acetate of ammonium, 4 fluid ounces; water, one-half pint. In the later stage of the disease substitute the following fonnula, which may be given twice daily : Carbonate of ammonium, 3 drams ; liquor hydrochlorate of strychnin, 2 fluid drams; spirits of nitrous ether, 1 fluid ounce; water, one-half pint. In some cases the following is preferable to either of the above, and may be given in a pint of linseed tea every four hours : Spirits of nitrous ether, 1^ ounces; aromatic spirits of ammonia, 2 ounces; powdered camphor, 2 drams. The food should be light and nutri- tious. Bronchitis is liable to assume a chronic form if not properly treated in the earliest stage. Kemedial treatment is of little value when the disease becomes chronic. Pleurisy is an inflammation of the serous membrane lining the chest cavity and enveloping the lungs. It is somewhat rare as an independent disease, but it often complicates pneumonia; indeed, it is often due to the same germ that causes pneumonia — pneumococcus. It may arise from exposure to cold or wet or from external violence, and is usually present in some degree in cases where the ribs have been fractured with or without a penetrated wound. NONCONTAGIOUS DISEASES OF RESPIRATION ORGANS, 95 Symptoms. — In the first stage there is great pain aggi'avated by- movement, and the animal is usually stiff as though foimdered, the pulse is quick and hard, the breathing abdominal, the chest being fixed so far as possible, the inspiration short and jerky, the expiration longer. The pain is due to the friction of the dry inflamed pleural surfaces of the lung and chest on each other. At this stage the ear detects a dry friction murmur, resembling somewhat the sound made by rubbing two pieces of sole leather together. Pressure between th€ ribs gives pain and usually causes the animal to flinch and grunt. The muzzle is hot and dry, the mouth slimy, and the secretions scanty. After a day or two the severity of the symptoms is much lessened, the temperature, which during the first days ma}'' have been as high as 106° F., falls to 103° or 10-4°, the pain decreases, the stiffness disappears, and the patient eats a little. The pulse softens, but remains quicker than normal. Now, day by day the jjatient loses a little strength, the friction sound disappears as the exudation mois- tens the pleural surfaces; percussion now shows a horizontal line of dullness, which day by day rises higher in the chest, the respiration grows more frequent and labored, the countenance is anxious and haggard, the eyes sink somewhat in their sockets, and in unfavorable cases death occurs during the second or third week, either from asphyxia or heart failure. In i:)leurisy, as in pneumonia, the elbows are usually turned out- ward. Care must be taken to differentiate pleurisy from traumatic pericarditis (which see). In the latter condition the area of dulhiess of the heart is much increased, and usually a splashing sound is heard at each beat of the heart. Another diagnostic symptom of value is that in traumatic pericarditis respiration is painful, not difficult, and the respiratory rate is very much increased on movement. In both conditions a considerable swelling of the dewlap may be noticed in the later stages. Treatment. — Give the same general care as recommended in bron- chitis or pneumonia. In the early stages give a febrifuge to reduce the fever, as directed for pneumonia. For relief of the cough give electuary formula, which will be found in the treatment of laryngitis. The bowels must be kept relaxed and the kidneys secreting freely. In the stage of effusion give the following three times daily: Digi- talis tincture, 1 ounce; iodid of potassium, 30 to 60 grains; mix. Apply strong counterirritant to chest and put seton in dewlap. (See "Setoning," p. 301.) If collapse of the lung is threatened, a surgical operation is sometimes performed, termed paracentesis tlwracis^ which consists in puncturing the chest cavity and drawing off a part of the fluid. The instruments used are a small trocar and cannula, which are introduced between the eighth and ninth ribs. 96 DISEASES OF CATTLE. Draw the skin forward so that the external wound may not corre- spond with the puncture of the chest, to prevent the entrance of air. Only a portion of the fluid should be removed. The animal gets immediate relief, but it is generally only temporary, as there is a tendency for the fluid to accumulate again. PNEUMONIA. This is an inflammation of the lung substance. It is divided into three different forms, viz: First, croupous pneumonia; second, catarrhal pneumonia; and third; intei-stitial pneumonia. But these various forms can only be differentiated by the expert, and I there- fore deem it necessary for the purposes of the present work to treat the subject under the general head of pneumonia. The causes of pneumonia in general are the same as those of the various other inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract. The germ is called the pneumococcus. It mostly follows congestion of the lungs, but may in rare cases have a parasitic origin. Symptom's. — In the first stage, that of congestion, the disease is usually ushered in by a chill, although this may not always be observed by the attendant. This is followed by an elevation of tem- perature, usually 105° to 106° F., or it may be even higher. The respirations are quick and shallow ; the nostrils are dilated ; the pulse is full and hard. Cough may or may not appear in this stage. The nose is hot and dry; the tongue sometimCvS protrudes and is slimy; the coat is staring, and the skin dry and harsh. The urine is usually diminished in quantity, high colored, and the bowels constipated. The animal stands with the forelegs wide apart to facilitate respira- tion. On auscultation crepitation will be observed over the portion of the limg affected. The sounds elicited on percussion are practi- cally normal in this stage. In the second stage the temperature generally drops one or two degrees, and respiration is performed with much difficulty. The cough is frequent and painful. The animal still stands with the fore- legs wide apart and the elbows turned outward. If it assumes the recumbent position it rests on the sternum. All secretions are more or less suspended, particularly the milk in cows. The animal has a haggard appearance, and the pulse becomes small and wiry at this period. The extremities are hot and cold alternately ; the crepitation which was present in the first stage is now absent, and no sound on auscultation will be heard, except it be a slight wheezing or whistling noise. On percussion dullness over the diseased lung is manifested, indicating consolidation. The Imig has now assumed a characteristic liver-like appearance. XONCOXTAGIOUS DISEASES OF EESPIEATIOX OBGANS. 97 In the third stage, if the disease is going to terminate favorably, the cough becomes loose, the animal improves, the appetite returns, and the symptoms above detailed rapidly subside; but if. on the other hand, resolution is not progressing, the lung substance is broken down, is heavy, and will sink in water. In fatal cases the breath has a peculiar fetid, cadaverous odor, and is taken in short gasps; the horns, ears, and extremities become cold and clammy, and the pulse is imperceptible. On auscultation, when suppuration is taking place and the lung structure is breaking down, a bubbling or gurgling crepitation, caused by the passage of air through pus, will be heard. Treatment. — Good hygienic surroundings and good nursing are essential in connection with the medical treatment. The probability of recovery depends largely on the extent of the lung tissue involved, as well as on the intensity of the inflanunatory process. In the early stage, when the fever is high, give febrifuges. If the pulse be strong and full, aconite (Fleming's tincture, 1 to 2 drams, every four or five hours) may be given for a short time, but should be discontinued as soon as the fever begins to abate. Aconite is a valuable drug in the hands of the intelligent practitioner, but my experience leads me to believe that not infrequently animals are lost by its injudicious use, for in many febrile conditions it is positively contraindicated, owing to its action upon the heart. In a plethoric animal, with a strong, bounding pulse, bleeding may be resorted to instead of administering aconite. If the bowels are constipated, give calomel. 1 to 8 drams, which acts as a cathartic and a febrifuge. In the second stage diffus- ible stimulants are required, viz: Spirits of nitrous ether, 2 ounces; aromatic spirits of ammonia, 1 ounce; mix, and give in gruel three times daily. If the above is not at hand, give an alcoholic stimulant. Half a pint of brand}^ or Avhisky may be given in a quart of gruel three times daily. In some cases carbonate of ammonia, 2 to 5 drams, has been found beneficial. Most practitioners apply counterirritants externally, such as mustard plasters, turpentine, and ammonia lini- ment, or cantharides. EMPHYSEMA ( HEAVES ) . Emphysema consists of a rupture of the minute air vesicles of the lung substance, and may be either interlobular or vesicular. There is an extreme interference with respiration, inspiration being short and expiration prolonged. It is a nonfebrile condition, in which the appetite is not decreased and the milk secretion is kept up. It may be caused by an attack of asthma or may result from chronic bron- chitis. The disease can be diagnosed by the marked interference with respiration. The animal, as a rule, is emaciated, has a staring coat, and is hidebound. If percussion is resorted to, the animal's 16923°— 12 7 98 DISEASES OF CATTLE. chest will give a tympanic, drum-like sound. The normal resonant sound is exaggerated. TreatTnent. — The disease is incurable, and only a palliative form of treatment can be carried out. The destruction of the animal is often advisable, from a humane as well as from a financial point of view. PULMONARY CONGESTIOX. Cattle that are overdriven or overworked are liable to pulmonary congestion in an acnate form, and sometimes pulmonary apoplexy. In such cases the animal should be allowed to rest; and if the weather be hot, put in a shady place. Give stimnlants internally, unload the venous side of the heart by bleeding, and apply stimulating applica- tions to the legs, and bandage. HEMOPTYSIS. This is a term used to signify bleeding from the lungs. The trouble may result from a previous congestion of the lungs or from a break- ing down of the lung substance, or from specific disorders. Bleeding from the lungs comes from both nostrils and from the mouth. The blood is bright red, frothy, and accompanied by a cough, the flow being somewhat profuse and intermingled with mucus. It may cease of its own accord. Internally hemostatics are indicated, and locally over the sides cold applications have a tendency to check the hemorrhage. Give the animal a drench composed of 1^ drams of gallic acid dissolved in a pint of water. ABSCESS OF THE LUNG. Abscesses of the lung sometimes form during the course of or sub- sequent to tuberculosis or other diseases. An animal affected with abscess of the lung usually has a protracted, feeble cough and a gen- eral appearance of emaciation and anemia. The pulse is feeble and the breath foul. An offensive discharge from the lungs frequently occurs. Percussion and auscultation will aid in making a diagnosis in this condition. The appetite is poor. Such animals go from bad to worse, and their prompt destruction would, as a rule, be to the interest of the owner. HYDROTHORAX. Hydrothorax, or dropsy of the chest, is not a disease in itself, but is simply a condition where an effusion takes place in the chest cavity, and is the result or effect of some disease, mostly pleurisy. This con- dition can be easily diagnosed by physical signs. A loss of the res- piratory murmur will be noticed on auscultation, and on percussion dullness or flatness on a line as high as the effusion has taken place. NONCONTAGIOUS DISEASES OF RESPIRATION ORGANS. 99 WTien there is a large amount of effusion present, tapping with the trocar and cannula is generally resorted to. The proper method of per- forming this operation will be found under the head of " Pleurisy." PNEUMOTHORAX. An accumulation of gas in the pleural sac is known as pneumo- thorax. The presence of air may either result from an injury of the lung or a wound communicating from the exterior. The indications for treatment are to remove any foreign body that may have pene- trated, to exclude the further entrance of the air into the ca\'ity by the closure of the external opening, and to employ antiseptics and adhesive dressings. The air already in the cavity will in most cases be absorbed. VERMINOUS BRONCHITIS. This is a disease that sometimes attacks young cattle when pas- tured in low-lying meadows near rivers subject to flood. It is caused bv a small worm, StrongyliiH rmci^rus^ which lodges in large num- bers in the trachea and bronchial tubes, giving rise to considerable irritation of the air passages and inflammation. Sometimes the strongyles lodge in large numlx'i's in the windpipe, forming them- selves into a ball, and thus choke the animal to death. Symptoms. — It is liable to attack a number of animals at once, and the weakest are the first to give way. The animal has a remarkably forcible cough, distressing, and of a special hacking and paroxysmal character. A stringy mucus is sometimes expelled during the spells of coughing. This mucus contains the Strongylus micrurus., which can be detected, or their ova observed, under a low power of the microscope. The attack has a subacute character and proves very exhausting. The parasites, by becoming entwined in balls, seriously impede respiration, which is always remarkably labored in this dis- ease. Treatment. — The affected calves should be placed in a dr}^ stable, protected from dampness, and subjected to fumigations of sulphurous anhydrid or chlorin gas. The literation of chlorin gas is brought about by the action of sulphuric acid, either on a mixture of chlorid of sodium and black oxid of manganese or on bleaching powder. Sulphurous anhydrid may be procured by burning sulphur. Some practitioners prescribe small doses of spirits of turpentine in linseed oil. The system requires good support, and the diet should therefore be liberal and nutritious. Equal parts of sulphate of iron, gentian, and ginger make an excellent tonic. Prevention. — Avoid pastures notorious for generating verminous bronchitis. 100 DISEASES OF CATTLE. PLEURODYNIA. This is a term applied to rheninatism of the intercostal muscles. The apparent symptoms are quite similar to those of pleurisy. The animal is stitf and not inclined to turn around, and the ribs are kept in a fixed state as much as possible. Pleurodynia may be distin- guished from pleurisy by the coexistence of rheumatism in other parts and by the comparative absence of fever, cough, the friction sound, and the effusion into the chest. The treatment for this affec- tion is the same as that for rheumatism affecting other parts. DISEASES OF THE XEEVOUS SYSTEM. By W. H. Habbaugh, V. S. [Revised in 1904 by Leonard Pearson. B. S., V. M. D.] The nervous system is the distinguishing feature of animal life. Without it there can be no intelligence, no instinct, no sensibility, no perception; in fact, existence would be nothing more than vegetable life. The senses — touch, taste, sight, hearing, smell — all depend on the nervous system. Motion depends on it. A muscle can not contract without receiving the stimulus from the nervous system. For ex- ample, if a nerve passing from a nerve center to a muscle is severed, the particular muscle that is supplied by the cut nerve is paralyzed. The nervous system is often studied in two divisions — the cei'ebro- spinal division and the sympathetic division. The cerebrospinal divuion consists of the brain and spinal cord, nerves, and ganglia. The nerves of this division convey the impulses of motion and sensation and supply all parts which are under the control of the will. F'or example, the voluntary muscular tissue includes all the muscles which act as the will directs. Another ex- ample : If anything comes in contact with any part of the skin, the impression is immediately perceived. All the special senses belong to this division. The sympathetic division consists of nerves and ganglia. The muscular tissue, which acts independently of the will — as, for exam- ple, the stomach, intestines, womb, blood vessels, ducts, etc. — is called involuntary muscular tissue, and re<;€ives nervous stimulus from the sympathetic division. The brain, spinal cord, and the ganglia are the central organs of the nervous system. The nei'ves conduct the nervous influence. The nerves terminate differently according to their function. The termi- nations are called end organs. The terminal end organs in the skin and other parts endowed with sensation receive the impressions, which are conveyed to the brain, where they are appreciated. They are so sensitive that the most gentle zephyr is perceived. They are so abundant that the point of the finest needle can not pierce the skin without coming in contact with them, and e in a fair state of health usually, but at any time, in the stable or in the field, it may have a convulsion in which it will fall and lose consciousness. Epilepsy must not be confounded with vertigo— the fainting which is an effect of heart troubles. The exact cause of epilepsy in the majority of cases is unknown. Post-mortem examinations in many instances have failed to discover any lesion in connection with the brain or nervous system; while in other instances disease of the brain has been found in the form of thickening of the membranes, abscesses, and tumors, and in some cases the affection has been manifested in connection with a diseased condition of the blood. The cause has also been traced to reflex irri- tation, due to teething, wonns, and chronic indigestion. Treatment. — When the affection is due to the last-named causes treatment may be successful if the cause is removed. If there are symptoms of w^orms or of indigestion, follow the general treatment advised for those troubles under their proper heads. If due to irrita- tion caused by teething, the inflamed gimis must be lanced. Exami- nation of the mouth often develops the fact that one of the temporary teeth causes much irritation by remaining unshed, and thereby inter- fering with the growth of a permanent tooth. The offending tooth should be extracted. When the cause of epilepsy can not be dis- covered, it must be confessed that there is no prospect of a cure. However, some benefit may be expected from the occasional admin- istration of a purgative dose of medicine. A pound of Epsom salt 108 DISEASES OF CATTLE. dissolved in a quart of warm water, for a cow of average size, may be given as a drench once or twice a month. In addition to the purga- tive, 4 drams of bromid of potassium, dissolved in the drinking water, three times a day, has j^roved ver}^ beneficial in some cases. SL^ STROKE (PROSTRATION FROM HEAT). Owing to the fact that cattle are seldom put to work at which they would have to undergo severe exertion. esj->ecially in collars, they are not frequently prostrated by the extreme heat of the summer months. When at pasture they select the coolest places in the shade of trees, in water, etc., when the heat becomes oppressive, and thereby avoid, as much as possible, the effects of it. It does happen, however, that cattle that have been kept up for the purpose of fattening, when driven some distance in very hot weather, are sometimes prostrated, but it must be remembered that it is not really necessary for the animal to be exposed to the rays of the sun, as those confined in hot, close places may suffer. This often happens in shipping, when they are crowded together in cars. Symptoms. — The premonitory signs are those of exhaustion — dull- ness, panting, frothing at the mouth, tongue hanging out, irregular gait, uneasiness, palpitation — when, if the circumstances which tend to the prostration are not mitigated, the animal staggers or sways from side to side, falls, struggles for a while, and then gradually becomes quiet, or the struggles may continue, with repeated but inef- fectual efforts to regain a standing position. In serious cases the attack may be very sudden, unconsciousness occurring without con- tinued or distressing premonitory symptoms. Treatment. — At first, when not very serious, removal to a quiet, sheltered place, with a few days on a reduced diet, is all that need be done. AMien the animal has fallen, apply cold water or ice to the head ; rub the body and limbs with cloths or wisps of straw, and con- tinue the rubbing for a considerable time. If the power of swallow- ing is not lost (which may be ascertained by pouring a little cold water into the mouth), give 3 drams of stronger liquor ammonia, diluted with a quart of cold water. Be very careful in drenching the animal Avhen lying down. Kepeat the drench in a half hour and an hour after the first one has been given. Instead of the ammonia, a drench composed of 3 ounces of spirits of nitrous ether in a pint of water may be given, if more convenient, but the ammonia drench is preferable. If unconsciousness continues, so that a drench can not be administered, the same quantity of ammonia and water may be injected with a syringe into the rectum. The popular aqua ammonia, commonly called '' hartshorn," will do as well as the stronger liquor ammonia, but as it is weaker than the latter the dose for a cow is DISEASES OF THE NEEVOUS SYSTEM. 109 about H ounces, which should be diluted with a quart of water before it is given to the animal, either as a drench or an enema. When am- monia can not be obtained, a pint of whisky in a quart of water or an ounce of tincture of digitalis may be given. As soon as the animal is able to rise it should be assisted and moved to the nearest shelter. All the cold water it will drink should be allowed. The ammonia or spirits of nitrous ether drench should be administered every three hours so long as there is much failure of strength. The diet should be limited for several days — bran slops and a little grass. A^^len signs of returning strength are presented, 12 ounces of Epsom salt dissolved in a quart of warm water may be given in those cases which have been down and unconscious, but clo not give it while much weakness remains, which may be for several days after the attack. The flesh of an animal that is suffering from heat stroke should not be prepared for use as food. On account of the fever with which the animal suffers, the flesh contains toxins that may render it poisonous to the consumer. INJURIES TO THE SPINAL CORD. The spinal cord is liable to concussion from blows and falls, and paralysis, to a greater or less extent, may be the result. Fracture, with displacement of the bones (vertebrae) which form the spinal column, by compressing the spinal cord, produces paralysis, which varies in its effect according to the part of the cord that is compressed. If the fracture is above the middle of the neck, death soon follows, as communication between the brain and diaphragm (the essential muscle of inspiration) is stopped. Allien the fracture is farther down in the neck, posterior to the origin of the phrenic nerve, the breath- ing continues, but there is paralysis in all parts posterior to the fracture, including the fore and hind legs. AAlien the fracture is in the region of the loins the hind legs are paralyzed, but the fore legs are not. If the fracture is in the sacrum (the division of the spinal column between the loins and the tail), the tail alone is paralyzed. As a matter of course, when the back is broken there is no remedy ; the animal should be killed at once. PARALYSIS. Paralysis, or loss of motion in a part, may be due to a lesion of the brain, of the spinal cord, or of a nerve. It may also be caused by reflex iiTitation. When the paralysis affects both sides of the body, posterior to a point, it is further designated by the name paraplegia. When one side of the body (a lateral half) is paralyzed, the term hemiplegia is applied to the affection. \Mien paralysis is caused by a lesion of a nerve, the paralysis is confined to the particular part supplied by the affected nerve. 110 DISEASES OF CATTLE. As already pointed out, paralysis may be due to concussion of the spine, fracture of a bone of the spinal column with consequent com- pression of the spinal cord, concussion of the brain, or compression of the brain. An injury to one side of the brain may produce paralysis of the same side of the head, and of the opposite side of the body hemiplegia. Paralysis may occur in connection with parturient apoplexy, lead poisoning, ergotism, etc. CONGESTIOX OF THE SPINAL CORD. Paraplegia., or paralysis of the rear part of the body, is the domi- nant symptom in congestion or inflammation of the spinal cord. The cause is not known, but the disease is probably due to chilling. It is thought by some that some toxic influence (poison) may be responsi- ble for its development. Symptoms. — The symptoms usually appear suddenly, and consist in inability to stand. Sometimes this is preceded by a period of excitement. The animal usually lies quietly, but sometimes it groans and tosses its head about in a way that indicates pain. Cows heavy with calf are sometimes affected with a form of paraplegia, which usually attacks them from about a month to a few days before calving. Apparently they are in good health in every respect except the inability to stand up on account of the paralysis of the hind quarters. This form is generally attributed to feeding on foods con- taining insufficient protein and ash. It is most likely to occur in cows that are weak and thin. With good care and food recovery usually occurs. Treatment. — The animal must be given a soft, dry bed under shel- ter and in a quiet, airy place. It is well to apply mustard along the spine. The action of the mustard may be intensified by rubbing the skin with ammonia or turpentine. Internally give a purge of Glauber's salt. Nux vomica or strychnia (1 to 2 grain doses) may be given. Turn the cow two to four timas daily and rub the legs well each time. There are instances when cows will persist in lying down (in spite of all efforts that are made to compel them to stand up), when it can not really be said that they are paralyzed. They have sensation in all parts; they can move all their feet ; they can change their position; and in fact every function seems to be normally performed, but they obstinately refuse to rise, or even make an effort to do so. Cases of this kind have been killed, as it was an utter impossibility to get the animal on its feet. However, there are instances when a cow, after refusing to rise when all other means had been tried, quickly jumped to her feet and showed fright upon the appearance of a dog or other terrifying object. DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. Ill RABIES (hydrophobia). [See discussion of this disease in cliapter ozi " Infectious diseases," p. 410.] LIGHTNING STROKE (ASPHYXIA ELECTRICa). When an animal is struck by lightning the shock is instantaneously expended on the nervous system, and as a rule death occurs immedi- ately, but when the shock is not fatal animation is suspended to a greater or less extent, as evidenced by prostration, unconsciousness, and paralysis. Symptom's. — When not fatal, the symptoms vary much, according to the severity of the shock. The animal usually falls, as from an apoplectic attack, and, as a matter of course, the symptoms are such as are generally manifested in connection with concussion of the brain. The muscular system may be completely relaxed; the legs limber; the muscles flabby and soft, to the touch ; or there may be con- vulsions, spasms, and twitching of the muscles. The breathing is generally labored, irregular, or interrupted, and slower than normal. In most instances the electrical fluid leaves its mark by singeing the hair, or by inflicting wounds, burns, or blisters. " Sir B. Brodie tells a curious story of two bullocks, pied white and red, which were struck in different storms. In both cases the white hairs were con- sumed, while the red ones escaped." Treatiment. — So long as the boating of the heart is perceptible the endeavor to resuscitate the animal should be continued. Dash cold water over the head and body; rub the body and legs; smartly whip the body with wet towels or switches. ^lustard, mixed with water, should be well rubbed over the legs and back of the head on each side of the neck. Inject into the rectum 4 drams of stronger liquor ammonia, or \\ ounces of hartshorn diluted with a quart of warm water. Cautiously hold an uncorked bottle of hartshorn to the nos- trils, so that some of it is inhaled, but care should be taken that too much is not suddenly inhaled. In desperate cases artificial respiration should be tried, as follows: With both hands spread out to cover a large surface, press on the abdomen (behind the ribs) and then on the chest (behind the shoul- ders), and continue in this manner, first on the abdomen and then on the chest in regular order, so that the chest and abdomen are each pressed on alternately about 20 times a minute. The pressure should be slow and steady, so that the movement given by it to the walls of the chest and abdomen will resemble their motion in bi-eathing. A hand bellows may be used as an aid to the foregoing method, as fol- lows: Each time after the chest is pressed on, the nozzle is inserted in the nostril and air slowly and gently forced in by the bellows. 112 DISEASES OF CATTLE. ^A'hen the animal revives sufficiently to be able to swallow, 4 drams of the stronger liquor ammonia, diluted with a quart of cold water, .should be given as a drench, and the dose should be repeated in an hour. One and one-half ounces of ordinary hartshorn may be used instead of the stronger liquor ammonia, but, like the latter, it should be diluted with a quart or more of water, and even then care should be exercised in drenching. In cases where the shock has not caused complete insensibility recovery may be hastened by the ammonia and water drench, or 4 ounces of brandy diluted with a quart of water, or 8 ounces of whisky diluted with a quart of water. These doses may be given every three or four hours if necessary. After recovery from the more serious symptoms 2 drams of sulphate of quinine should be given twice a da}^ until health is restored. If any paralysis remains 1^ drams of pulverized nux vomica should be given t^\ice a day with the quinine. The foregoing treatment is also applicable when the electrical shock is given by telephone, electric car, or electric-light wires, etc. The wounds, burns, or l>listers should be treated according to the antiseptic method of treating wounds. ^^TM()KS IX THE BRAIN, ETC. Tumors of diflerent kinds have been found within the cranial cav- ity, and in many cases there have been no well-marked symptoms exhibited during the life of the animal to lead one to suspect their existence. Cases are recorded where bony tumors have l>een found in the brain of cattle that died suddenly, but during life no signs of disease were manifested. Post-mortem examinations have discovered tubercles in the membranes of the brain. (See "Tuberculosis." p. 414.) Abscesses, usually the result of inflammation of the brain, have been found post-mortem. For the description of hydrocephalus, or dropsy of the brain, of calves, the reader is referred to the section on parturition. (See " Water in the head," p. 181.) Chorea, constant twitching and irregular spasmodic movements of the muscles, has been noticed in connection with, or as a sequel to other atfections, as, for example, parturient apoplexy. Various diseases, the description of which will be found in other sections of this work, affect the nervous system to a greater or less extent — for example, ergotism, lead poisoning, uremia, parturient apoplexy, colic, and other affections associated with cramps, or spasms, etc. Disease of the ovaries or of the spinal cord, by reflex irritation, may cause estromania (see "Excess of venereal desire," p. 148), constant desire for the bull. DISEASES OF THE UEmAEY OKGAXS. By James Law, F. R. C. V. S., Professor of Veterinary Science, etc., in Carnell rnirersity. Of the materials that have served their purpose in building up the animal body or in sustaining the bodily temperature, and that are now to be thrown out as waste, the greater part are expelled from the system through the lungs and the kidneys, but the agents that pass out by either of these two channels differ in the main from those passing by the other. Thus from the lungs in the form of dioxid of carbon — the same gas that comes from burning of coal or oil — there escapes most of the waste material resulting from the destruc- tion in the sj^stem of fats, sugars, starch, and such other foods as are wanting in the element nitrogen, and do not form fibrous tissues, but go mainly to support animal heat or maintain functional activity. From the kidneys, on the other hand, are thrown out the waste prod- ucts resulting from the destruction of the foods and tissues contain- ing nitrogen — of, for instance, albumin, fibrin, gluten, casein, gela- tin, woody tissue, etc. AVhile much of the waste material containing nitrogen leaves the body by the l)owels, this is virtually such only of the albuminoid food as has failed to be fully digest^nl and absorbed, and this has never formed a true constituent part of the body itself or of the blood, but is so much waste food, like that which has come to the table and been carried away again unused. "WTiere the albu- minoid food element has entered the blood, whether or not it has been built up into a constituent part of the structure of the body, its waste products, which contain nitrogen, are in the main expelled through the kidneys, so that these organs become the principal channels for the expulsion of all nitrogen-containing waste. It would be an error, however, to infer that all nitrogenous food, when once digested and absorbed into the blood, must necessarily leave the system in the urine. On the contrarv% in the young and growing animal all increase of the fibrous structures of the body is gained through the building up of those flesh-forming constituents into their substance; in the pregnant animal the growth of the off- spring and its envelopes has a similar origin, and in the dairy cow the casein or curd of the milk is a means of constant elimination of these nitrogen-containing agents. Thus, in the breeding cow and, above all, in the milking cow, the womb or udder carries on a work in one sense equivalent to that otherwise performed by the kidneys. 16923°— 12 8 113 114 DISEASES OF CATTLE. Kot only are these organs alike channels for the excretion of albu- minous products, but they are also related to each other structurally and by nervous sympathy, so that suffering in the one is liable to induce some measure of disorder in the other. This nitrogenous waste matter is mainly present in the urine of cattle, as of other mammals, in the form of urea, but also, to some extent, as hippuric acid, a derivative of vegetable food which, in the herbivora, replaces the uric acid found in the urine of man and car- nivora. Uric acid is, however, found in the urine of sucking calves which have practically an animal diet, and it may also appear in the adult in case of absolute and prolonged starvation, and in diseases attended by complete loss of appetite and rapid wasting of the body. In such cases the animal lives on its own substance, and the product is that of the wasting flesh. The other products containing nitrogen are only present in small amount, and need not be specially referred to. The urine of cattle contains much less of carbonates than does that of the horse, and effervesces less on the addition of an acid. As the carbonates form a large proportion of the solid deposits (gravel, stone) from the horse's urine, the ox may thus be held less liable ; yet even in the ox the carbonates become abundant or scanty, according to the nature of the food, and therefore gravel, formed by carbonate of lime, is not infrequent in cattle. When fed on beets, clover hay, or bean straw, carbonates are present in large amount, these aliments being rich in organic acids and alkaline carbonates; whereas upon oat straw, barley straw, and, above all, wheat straw, they are in small amount. In calves fed on milk alone no carbonates are found in the urine. Phosphates, usually in combination with lime, are, as a rule, pres- ent only in traces in the urine of cattle; yet on a dietary of wheat, bran, or other aliment rich in phosphates, these may be present in large amount, so that they render the liquid cloudy or are deposited in solid crystals. The liquid is rendered transparent by nitric acid. The cow's urine, on a diet of hay and potatoes, contained : Parts. Urea 18. 5 Potassic hippurate 16. 5 Alkaline lactates 17.2 Potassium bicarbonate 16. 1 Magnesium carbofnate 4.7 Lime carbonate 0.6 Potassium sulphate 3.6 Common salt 1-5 Silica Trace. Phosphates 0. Water and undetermined substances 921. 3 Total 1. 000. DISEASES OF THE UEINAEY ORGANS. 115 The following table after Tereg^ gives the different conditions of the urine, and especially the amount of urea and hippuric acid under diiferent rations. The subjects were two oxen, weighing, respectively, 1,260 pounds and 1.060 pounds : Food per day (pounds). 1 1 >. d ■3 t5 i 11 III a 1 t 2 16.90 wheat straw, and 1.30 bean meal Lbs. 46.46 61.10 71.76 80.54 78.96 110. 12 101.80 119.00 54.84 55.76 36.26 Lbs. 7.40 15.26 12,36 12.46 17.62 25.86 27.04 23.20 12.60 16.34 15.14 1,036 1,039 1,043 1,044 1,043 1,038 1,037 1,038 1,043 1,036 1,042 P.ct. 8.41 6.93 8.05 8.29 8.41 7.00 7.14 7.74 7.06 5.45 7.91 p.ct. 2.66 2.09 0.95 8.07 0.74 0.31 0.20 0.21 0.40 0.11 1.30 p.ct. 1.33 0.84 1.85 2.41 3.12 2.49 2.95 4.06 2.53 1.41 1.73 p.ct. 0.83 0.55 0.93 1.19 1.45 1.19 1.91 1.21 0.67 0.91 P.ct. 0.94 0.49 0.94 1.11 1.24 1.25 1.58 1.69 1.15 0.64 0.92 Ozs. 1.63 2.2 3.83 5.8 9.17 10.9 13.3 15.4 5.3 3.83 4.37 Ozs. 3.23 14.70 oat straw, and 2.30 bean meal . . 10.4 wheat straw, 10.4 clover hay, 0.6 bean meal, and 2.6 starch .... 10.4 wheat straw, 10.4 clover hay, 2.7 bean meal, 1.4 starch, and 0.8 5.3 1.96 2.1 10.4 wheat straw, 10.4 clover hay, 5 bean meal, and 0.8 sugar 10 wheat straw, 10 clover hay, 6.4 bean meal, 1.7 starch, 4 sugar, 2.17 1.33 10 wheat straw, 10 clover hay, 9.4 bean meal, 3.1 sugar, and 0.4 rape oil 0.9 10 wheat straw, 10 clover hay, 11.7 bean meal, 2.8 starch, and 0.6 0.8 17.86 bean straw, and 1.6 bean meal. 0.83 0.3 16.90 meadow hay 3.3 The varying amount of urea (from 1.6 to 15.4 ounces) is most sug- gestive as to the action of the more or less nitrogenous food and the resulting concentration of the urine and blood. Hippuric acid, on the other hand^ is most abundant when the animal is fed on hay and straw. The specific gravity of the urine of cattle varies from 1,030 to 1,060 in health, water being 1,000. It is transparent, with a yellowish tinge, and has a characteristic musky smell. The chemical reaction is alka- line, turning red litmus paper blue. The quantity passed in twenty- four hours varies greatly, increasing not only with the amount of water drunk, but with the amount of albuminoids taken in with the food and the amount of urea produced. If a solution of urea is injected into the veins the secretion of urine is greatly augmented. Similarly the excess of salts like carbonate of potash in the food, or of sugar, increases the action of the kidneys. Only about 20 per cent of the water swallowed escapes in the urine, the remaining 80 per cent 1 Encyklop. der Thlerheilk., Vol. IV. p. 208. 116 DISEASES OF CATTLE. passing mostly from the lungs, and to a slight extent by the bowels. The skin of the ox does not perspire so readily nor so freely as that of the horse; hence the kidneys and lungs are called upon for e.\tra work. The influence of an excess of water in the food is most re- markable in swill-fed distillery cattle, which urinate profusely at frequent intervals and yet thrive and fatten rapidly. Among the other conditions that increase the flow of urine is over- filling of (internal pressure in) the blood vessels of the kidneys. Hence the contraction of the blood vessels of the skin by cold drives the blood inward, tends to dilate the blood vessels of the kidneys, and to increase the secretion of urine. Nervous disorder's, such as excitement, fear, congestions, or structural injuries to the back part of the base of the brain have a similar result. Hence, doubtless, the action of certain fungi growing in musty hay or oats in producing profuse flow of urine, whereas other forms of musty fodder cause stupor^ delirium, or paralysis. Bacteria and their products are mainly expelled by the kidneys, and become sources of local infection, irritation, and disease. The amount of urine passed daily by an ox on dry feeding averages 7 to 12 pints, but this may be increased enormously on a watery diet. The mutual influence of the kidneys and other important organs tends to explain the way in which disease in one part supervenes on preexisting disorder in another. The introduction of albuminoids in excess into the blood means the fonnation of an excess of urea, and a more profuse secretion of urine, of a higher specific gravity, and with a greater tendency to deposit its solid constituents, as gravel, in the kidneys or bladder. A torpid action of the liver, leaving the albuminoids in transition forms, less soluble than the urea into which they should have been changed^ favors the onset of rheumatism or nervous disorder, the deposit of such albuminoid products in the kid- neys, the formation of a de«p-brown or reddish urine, and congestion of the kidneys. Any abnonnal activity of the liver in the production of sugar — more than can be burned up in the circulation — over- stinralates the kidneys and produces increased flow of a heavy urine with a sweetish taste. This increased production of sugar may be primarily due to disease of the brain, which, in its turn, determines the disorder of the liver. Disease of the right side of the heart or of the lungs, by obstructing the onward flow of blood from the veins, increases the blood pressure in the kidneys and produces disorder and excessive secretion. Inactivity of the kidneys determines an increase in the blood of waste products, which become irritating to different parts, producing skin eruptions, itching^ dropsies, and nerv- ous disorders. Sprains of the loins will produce bleeding from the kidneys and disease of the spinal cord, and determine sometimes albuminous or milky-looking urine. DISEASES OF THE UEINARY OEGANS. 117 The kidney of the ox (PL IX, fig. 1) is a compound organ made up of 15 to 25 separate lobules like so many separate kidneys, but all pouring their secretion into one common pouch (pelvis) situated in an excavation in the center of the lower surface. While the ox is the only domesticated quadruped which maintains this divided condition of the kidney after birth, this condition is common to all while at an early stage of development in the womb. The cluster of lobules making up a single kidney forms an ovoid mass flattened from above downward, and extending from the last rib backward beneath the loins and to one side of the solid chain of the backbone. The right is more firmly attached to the loins and extends farther backward than the left. Deeply covered in a mass of suet, each kidney has a strong outer white, fibrous covering, and inside this two successive layers of kidney substance, of which the outer is that in which the urine is mainly separated from the blood and poured into the fine microscopic urinary ducts. (PI. X, fig. 1.) These latter, together Avith blood vessels, lymph vessels, and nerves, make up the second, or internal, layer. The outer layer is mainly composed of minute glob- ular clusters of microscopic intercommunicating blood vessels (Mal- phigian bodies), each of which is furnished with a fibrous capsule that is nothing else than the dilated commencement of a urine tube. These practically microscopic tubes follow at first a winding course through the outer layer (Ferrein's tubes), then form a long loop (doubling on itself) in the inner layer (Henle's loop), and finally pass back through the inner layer (Bellini's tubes) to open through a conical process into the common pouch (pelvis) on the lower surface of the organ. (PI. X, figs. 1, 2, 3.) The tube that conveys the urine from the kidney to the bladder is like a white, round cord, about the size of a goose quill, prolonged from the pouch on the lower surface of the kidney backward beneath the loins, then inward, supported by a fold of thin membrane, to open into the bladder just in front of its neck. The canal passes first through the middle (muscular) coat of the bladder, and then ad- vances perceptibly between that and the internal (mucous) coat, through which it finally opens. By this arrangement in overfilling of the bladder this opening is closed like a valve by the pressure of the urine, and the return of liquid to the kidney is«prevented. The blad- der (PI. IX, fig. 2) is a dilatable egg-shaped pouch, closed behind by a strong ring of muscular fibers encircling its neck, and enveloped by looped muscular fibers extending on all sides around its body and closed anterior end. Stimulated by the presence of urine, these last contract and expel the contents through the neck into the urethra. This last is the tube leading backward along the floor of the pelvic bones and downward through the penis. In the bull this canal of the urethra is remarkable for its small caliber and for the S-shaped bend 118 DISEASES OF CATTLE. which it describes in the interval between the thighs and just above the scrotum. This bend is due to the fact that the retractor muscles are attached to the penis at this point, and in withdrawing that organ within its sheath they double it upon itself. The small size of the canal and this S-shaped bend are serious obstacles to the passing of a catheter to draw off the urine, yet by extending the penis out of its sheath the bend is effaced, and a small gum-elastic catheter, not over one-fourth of an inch in diameter, may with care be passed into the bladder. In the cow the urethra is very short, opening in the median line on the floor of the vulva about 4 inches in front of its external orifice. Even in the cow, however, the passing of a catheter is a matter of no little difficulty, the opening of the urethra being very narrow and encircled by the projecting membranous and rigid mar- gins, and on each side of the opening is a blind pouch (canal of Gartner) into which the catheter will almost invariably find its way. In both male and female, therefore, the passage of a catheter is an operation which demands special skill. General syinptoms of urinainj disorders. — These are not so promi- nent in cattle as in horses, yet when pr&sent they are of a similar kind. Tliere is a stiff or straddling gait with the hind limbs and some difficulty in turning or in lying down and rising, the act drawing forth a groan. The frequent passage of urine in driblets, the con- tinuous escap>e of the urine in drops, the sudden arrest of the flow when in full stream, the rhythmic contraction of the muscles under the anus without any flow resulting, the swelling of the sheath, the collection of hard, gritty masses on the hair surrounding the orifice of the sheath, the occurrence of dropsies in the limbs under the chest or belly, or in either of these cavities, and finally the appearance of nervous stupor, may indicate serious disorder of the urinaiy organs. The condition of the urine passed may likewise lead to suspicion. It may be white, from crj^stallized carbonate of lime; brown, red, or even black, from the presence of blood or blood-coloring matter; yellow, from biliary coloring matter; it may be frothy, from con- tained albumin; cloudy, from phosphates; glairy, from pus; or it may' show gintty masses, from gravel. In many cases of urinary dis- order in the ox, however, the symptoms are by no means prominent, and unless special examination is made of the loins, the bladder, and the urine the true nature of the malady may be overlooked. DIURESIS (polyuria, DIABETES, INSIPIDUS, EXCESSIVE SECRETION OF urine) . A secretion of urine in excess of the normal amount may be looked on as disease, even if the result does not lead to immediate loss of condition. Cattle fed on distillery swill are striking examples of such DISEASES OF THE UEINARY ORGANS. 119 excess caused by the enormous consumption of a liquid food, which nourishes and fattens in spite of the diuresis; but the condition is unwholesome, and cattle that have passed four or five months in a swill stable have fatty livers and kidneys, and never again do well on ordinarj^ food. Diuresis may further occur fi-om increase of blood pressure in the kidneys (diseases of the heart or lungs which liinder the onward passage of the blood, the eating of digitalis, English broom, the contraction of the blood vessels on the surface of the body in cold weather, etc.) ; also from acrid or diuretic plants taken with the food (dandelion, burdock, colchicum, digitalis, savin, resinous shoots, etc.) ; from excess of sugar in the food (beets, turnips, ripe sorghum) ; also from the use of frozen food (frosted turnip tops and other vegetables), and from the growths of certain molds in fodder (musty hay, mow-burnt hay, moldy oats, moldy bread, etc.) . Finally, alkaline waters and alkaline incrustations on the soil may be active causes. In some of these cases the result is beneficial rather than in- jurious, ^as when cattle affected with gi'avel in the kidneys are en- tirely freed from this condition by a run at grass, or by an exclusive diet of roots or swill. In other cases, however, the health and condi- tion suffer, and even inflammation of the kidneys may occur. Treatment. — The treatment is mainly in the change of diet to a more solid aliment destitute of the special offensive ingredient. Boiled flaxseed is often the best diet or addition to the wholesome dry food, and, by way of medicine, doses of 2 drams each of sulphate of iron and iodid of potassium may be given twice daily. In obsti- nate cases, 2 drams ergot of rye or of catechu may be added. BLOODY URINE (rED WATER, MOOR-ILL, WOOD-ILL, HEMATURIA, HEMA- globinuria). This is a common affection among cattle in certain localities, above all on damp, undrained lands, and under a backward agriculture. It is simply bloody urine or hematuria when the blood is found in clots, or when under the microscoj^e the blood globules can be detected as distinctly rounded, flattened disks. It is smoky urine — ^hemaglobinu- ria — when no such distinct clots nor blood disks can be found, but merely a general browning, reddening, or blackening of the urine by the presence of dissolved blood-coloring matter. The bloody urine is the more direct result of structural disease of the kidneys or urinary passages (inflammation, stone, gravel, tumors, hydatids, kidney worms, sprains of the loins), while the stained urine (hemaglobinu- ria) is usually the result of some general or more distant disorder in which the globules are destroyed in the circulating blood and the coloring matter dissolved in and diffused through the whole mass of the blood and of the urine secreted from it. As in the two forms, 120 DISEASES OF CATTLE. blood and the elements of blood escape into the urine, albumin is always present, so that there is albuminuria with blood-('olorin