RA Cane \\ NY SN FLOWER-SPRECHER ata Library gh AN = WN “\ooniiiiiiiggy | 3 1924 084 931 421 DATE DUE DEMCO 38-297 MANUAL OF VETERINARY MEDICINE Cor nell Wkenioor y rere Soa B27) MANUAL OF THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE BY EDWARD COURTENAY, M.R.C.V.S. SECOND EDITION REVISED BY FREDERICK T. G. HOBDAY, F.R.C.V.S. MEMBER OF THE EXAMINING BOARD OF THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF VETERINARY SURGEONS AND LATE PROFESSOR IN THE ROYAL VETERINARY COLLEGE, LONDON TORONTO J. A. CARVETH AND CO. 1907 ats, (6G (40> PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION THE field of research amongst the diseases of animals is almost boundless, and the importance of their investigation beyond question, especially as many of them are communi- cable to man. Great strides have been made during the past few years, particularly from bacteriological and hygienic standpoints, the discoveries of the organisms of glanders, tuberculosis, swine-fever, anthrax, and black- quarter, the uses of mallein and tuberculin as diagnostic agents, and the successful employment of vaccination as a preventive against black-quarter, being practical evidences. At the present time it would be quite impossible to include in any one volume of this size complete details of all the ailments to which the domesticated animals may be subject, but there is undoubtedly a want amongst students and practitioners of a comprehensive résumé to which they may refer, and it was on this account that I acceded with pleasure to revise ‘Courtenay,’ as for the student and young practitioner it contains much which is of sound practical value. Its popularity amongst students, especially in America and Canada, has made it advisable that the original letter- vi PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION press and general arrangement should be altered as little as possible, and these have not been touched except where modern progress has rendered such alteration absolutely necessary. If only in the smallest possible degree it helps forward the progress of veterinary science, the trouble taken by both author and reviser will be amply repaid. F. Hoppay. Kensineron, Lonpon. October, 1902. PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION (ABRIDGED) In offering this volume to the consideration of members of the Veterinary Profession, as well as to students and others who are interested in the study and advancement of the Veterinary Science, I feel it will suffice to say that I have endeavoured to the best of my ability to render the matter contained in the following pages of as great practical value as possible, to present in the most plain and concise manner the nature, causes, symptoms, and treatment of each disease in the form in which it most frequently occurs. I have also endeavoured to briefly describe the various conditions requiring surgical interference, as well as to point out the surgical operations required to be performed in such cases —the proper methods of operating and the indications, favourable or otherwise, to the performance of such operations. I have closely adhered to the teachings of one of the most eminently practical veterinarians and thorough gentle- men whom it has ever been my good fortune to meet— Professor A. Smith, Principal of the Ontario Veterinary College. But in the few cases in which experience and viii PREFACE TO THE FIRST EDITION recent revelations of science have led me to conclusions different to those arrived at by my former teacher, I have not hesitated to depart from those teachings. I wish to express a hope that this work may be favour- ably received by all into whose hands it may find its way, and more particularly by my fellow-votaries of the science which I admire and love above all others. F. C. CONTENTS CHAPTER I II III. IV. s VI VII. VIII. IX. x XI XII. XTII. XIV. XV. XVI. XVII. XVIII. INTRODUCTORY : DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM RESPIRATORY DISEASES OF THE OX STRANGLES - LYMPHANGITIS AFFECTIONS OF THE SKIN DISEASES OF THE EYES DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM INFLAMMATION DISEASES AFFECTING THE BONES DISEASES AFFECTING THE BONES (continued) DISEASES AFFECTING THE BONES (continued) WOUNDS - DISEASES OF THE FEET - THE TEETH INJURIES, ETC., IN THE REGION OF THE MOUTH INJURIES, ETC,, IN THE @SOPHAGEAL REGION DISEASES OF THE STOMACH AND INTESTINES DISEASES OF THE LIVER = PAGE 49 65 75 81 108 128 165 169 175 196 224 309 347 366 382 389 432 ETC. - - 447 XXI. DISEASES OF THE URINARY SYSTEM - - 459 XXII, DISEASES OF THE MALE ORGANS OF GENERATION 478 XXIII. GLANDERS AND FARCY 485 XXIV. VARIOLA 497 XXV. CASTRATION 501 XXVI, DISEASES OF THE ORGANS OF GENERATION (FEMALE) 515 XXVII. PREGNANCY, PARTURITION, AND THEIR RESULTS 525 XXVIII. AZOTURIA 553 XXIX. CARDIAC DISEASES - - 558 XXX. BLACK-QUARTER AND SWINE FEVER 565 INDEX 569 ERRATA. - Page 524, line 22, after ‘mares’ add, as footnote, ‘ Journal of Com- parative Pathology and Therapeutise, vol. xv., p. 55; Veterinary Record, vol. xii., p. 359, and vol. xiv., p. 306.’ Page 524, line 27 for ‘Chartier’s’ read ‘ Charlier’s.’ THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE INTRODUCTORY From the earliest ages, animals as well as men have been treated for disease according to a mode more or less systematic. We are told that the Egyptians were the first to under- stand the management of the horse ; the Greeks obtained their knowledge of the horse from the Egyptians. Xeno- phon, Herodotus, Vegetius, etc., are all familiar names, Vegetius having been styled the ‘ Veterinary Hippocrates.’ The name ‘ veterinarian’ is a very old one, and isa modi- fication of the Latin word ‘ veterinarius.’ The early history of the veterinary art presents little worthy of notice ; for hundreds of years the art languished, and very little progress was made. During the sixteenth century the first decisive step in an upward direction was taken: the works of Vegetius, as well as many more which had long lain neglected and almost forgotten, were translated into the various European languages, and eagerly read by an appreciative people. In 1 2 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE the year 1616 a work was published in Venice with many plates, showing that the structure of the horse was pretty well understood. France took the initiative step in the advancement of the veterinary art, being the first nation to accord to the profession its proper status, as well as the first nation to found a veterinary school, the Lyons Veteri- nary College being founded in 1762; the present Principal being Mons. A. Chauveau, whose name is a household word familiar to, and respected by, every veterinarian throughout the world. Four years later, in the year 1766, the Veteri- nary College at Alfort was opened. Both institutions have become very famous, and justly so, on account of the excellence and thoroughness of their teachings, and the additions to scientific knowledge given to the world thereby. The veterinary art had by this time emerged from the dark- ness and disadvantages which had for centuries threatened its extinction, was recognised and supported by the Government and the people, and stepping into its proper place, became recognised as one amongst the sciences. The people became fully conscious of the fact that the health and wealth of the nation very largely depended upon the character and proper observance of the teachings and theories promulgated by the veterinary colleges. From this time onward the rise and progress of the art was assured and steady ; until at the present time it is recognised as one of the foremost and most important professions in all parts of the civilized world. In Britain, the art was longer buried in ignorance than in the other European countries ; from time to time works of more or less excellence were published, which were received with varying degrees of favour. During the reign of Queen Elizabeth, Blundeville trans- lated some foreign works into English ; these were followed by the writings of many others, the most notable of which INTRODUCTORY 3 were, perhaps, those of William Gibson, published during the last century. Among the more recent writers who deserve more than ordinary notice may be mentioned Blaine, Coleman, Youatt, Percivall, Gamgee, Williams, Fleming, Dun, Robertson, etc. As agriculture, etc., ad- vanced, the people became anxious to educate veterinarians on scientific principles. The first attempt made by St. Bel to establish a veterinary college in England was a failure ; he returned to France, but finally succeeded in founding a college in London. He died shortly afterwards, and was succeeded as Principal of the college by Blaine. There are two veterinary colleges in Edinburgh, one in Glasgow and one in Dublin. The United States census for January, 1883, gave the number of domestic animals as follows: Horses, 10,000,000 ; cattle, 40,000,000 ; sheep, 35,000,000 ; swine, 34,000,000 ; a total of 119,000,000 animals, representing a money value of about two and a quarter billions of dollars. When this vast interest is taken into consideration, and while considerable progress has been made, it remains a matter of surprise that still greater strides have not been made in the advancement of veterinary knowledge on the American continent. Comparatively speaking, it may be said that the practice of veterinary medicine and surgery is in its infancy throughout Canada and the United States. A quarter of a century ago there was scarcely a city or town on the American continent that would give adequate support to a veterinary surgeon. Such a state of things cannot now be said to exist, as the people have been gradually learning to understand and appreciate the necessity for qualified practitioners, of whom, while not so numerous as in the older countries, there is at least no scarcity. Several veterinary schools and colleges have at various 1—2 4 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE times been founded in the United States and Canada; of these the American Veterinary College, New York City, Professor Liautard, Principal; the Montreal Veterinary College, Professor M’Eachran, Principal; and the Ontario Veterinary College, Toronto, of which Professor Smith is Principal, have been the most successful; the course of study, subjects taught, etc., being almost the same as in the English, Scotch and Irish colleges, but the course is not in all cases so long. In the United States no protective measures have as yet been taken by the Government as regards the passage of laws favourable to the veterinary profession ; in Canada the profession, being protected by proper legislation, stands upon a firm foundation, and is safe from quackish opposition, a recent law of Ontario making it an unlawful act for any person to assume the title of veterinary surgeon, or any abbreviation thereof, unless possessing a diploma of some recognised veterinary college, certifying that the holder thereof has passed the required examinations satisfactorily, and is competent to practise as a veterinary surgeon. In Great Britain it is only during the last few years that a similar Act has been in force. SIMPLE CATARRH 5 CHAPTER I Diseases of the Respiratory System SIMPLE CATARRH Tur horse is more liable to, and suffers oftener from, catarrh of the nasal passages than any other class of animal. I believe he is even more susceptible to respiratory troubles than man himself. The question may be asked, Why is this so? The answer is as follows: The horse, owing to the extraordinary development of the velum pendulum palati, breathes only through the nostrils, the in- spired air subsequently passing through the nasal chambers, which are of large size and lined throughout their extent by the Schneiderian or pituitary membrane, consequently a very large surface of mucous membrane is exposed to the various atmospheric influences which tend to produce disease. One of the most common diseases of this system is catarrh (simple) or coryza, ete. Definition.—Simple nasal catarrh may be defined to be a discharge due to some irritation of the mucous membrane lining the nostrils. Cause.—Probably a specific organism aided by predis- posing causes such as exposure to cold and dampness (and more especially if the system be debilitated), badly venti- lated stables, impure air, ctc. Foreign bodies such as dust, chaff, etc., may cause catarrh, and if the animal is neglected, the irritation is likely to extend to the throat, setting up laryngitis, or to the bronchial tubes, causing bronchitis, etc., or the whole of the mucous membrane of the respira- tory system may become involved in a general inflam- 6 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE mation. The disease is most frequently observed in young horses. Symptoms.—Probably the first symptom noticed is that the animal is duller than usual, coat slightly staring, dry, and dusty-looking. Anorexia is usually observable, as is redness and dryness of the Schneiderian membrane. The circulation is affected considerably in some cases, very slightly in others. Usually about this stage the animal has a slight cough, which is easily excited by pressure over the region of the larynx ; but we may have a well-marked case of simple catarrh without a cough. The discharge is from both nostrils in a large majority of cases ; it is at first of a serous character, thin and watery; soon, however, becoming thicker and more abundant, and yellowish-white in appearance. There is often a discharge of tears, which may or may not be abundant. Respiration is not interfered with except in certain rare cases. Simple catarrh undoubtedly constitutes a far more serious affection in the horse than it does in man. If an animal suffering with catarrh be put to work, the probabilities are that he will come in suffering from congestion of the lungs, and death may even ensue in a few hours. Simple catarrh usually runs a favourable course in from six to ten days. Treatment is very simple, and usually satisfactory if adopted in time. Pure air is absolutely indispensable in the treatment of all affections of the respiratory system. The animal should be placed in a dry and well-venti- lated loose-box ; the body should be clothed judiciously, according to the season, flannel bandages should be placed npon the legs, and the diet should be tempting to the appe- tite, of a moderate quantity, and of an easily digestible and nourishing character. Mild diffusible stimulants and febri- fuges are the medicinal agents indicated in the treatment SIMPLE CATARRH 7 of simple catarrh. An excellent draught is as follows: Spts. Atth. Nitrosi, 3i—zii.; Potasse Nitr., 3ii—3iii. ; Aquz, ad O.i., to be given once or twice a day; if necessary, continue its administration for three or four days. Some- times the required effect will be produced by the administra- tion of one or two doses. The use of the Ath. Nit. should cease when the pulse becomes fuller, but the Potasse Nitr. may be persevered with. It is said that a pretty powerful opiate, as Opii Tr., 3i.—3ii., combined with Potas- sium Nitrate 3i., Aque q.s., will often succeed in arresting the course of the disease, if administered at an early stage ; but the above should never be given in any case where the disease is well developed. Inhalations of steam are highly beneficial, relaxing the mucous membrane and relieving the nasal irritation. A close nose-bag should never be used, as the horse breathing only through his nostrils would have his life endangered, unless able to get a certain amount of pure air with the steam. If the cough be troublesome, or shows a tendency to become chronic, a stimulating liniment, as the am- monical liniment, or a mild blister, may be applied; and a bolus, composed of equal parts of Belladonna Ext., Cam- phore, and Ipecacuanha, may be given once a day until relieved. In this, as in all other respiratory affections, purgatives are totally inadmissible. Should constipation be present, as it usually is to a greater or less degree, order food of a laxative nature, as soft mashes, containing linseed meal ; or the condition may be relieved by a mild oleaginous draught, as Ol. Lini., 3viii—3xii.; or enemas of warm water, with a little Sodium Chloride, may be given. If the nasal discharge becomes chronic, Potassium Iodide should be given night and mornnig in drachm doses, or Ferri Sulph., 3ii.—3iii, may be given twice or three times daily; the iron being also a valuable tonic. A favourite prescription 8 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE in England is as follows: Ferri Sulph., 3ii.—3iii. ; Gentian, 3li.—3iv. ; twice or three times a day. The nostrils should be sponged several times daily, the eyes should also be sponged gently if much inflamed or if discharging. A change of food often hastens recovery—green food is highly bene- ficial. If the animal has been fed on food of a stimulating character, it is good practice to give food of an opposite character for a few days, as bran mashes, etc., then gradu- ally revert to the original method of feeding. Should recovery not progress in a satisfactory manner, or the debility be well marked after the acute symptoms have ceased, tonics, as iron, gentian, etc., should be given, and the animal should have the best of food, and pure water in liberal quantities. fesults.—A great many diseases may follow simple catarrh as a result of injudicious treatment, or treatment too long delayed; or may exist as complications. Some of the complications and results of this affection are as follows: pneumonia, pleurisy, pleuro-pneumonia, nasal gleet, Jaryn- gitis, pharyngitis, laryngo-pharyngitis, bronchitis, etc., each of which will meet with due consideration. LARYNGITIS Definition. Laryngitis may be defined as an inflamma- tory disease of the larynx, the inflammation involving the mucous membrane only, in the greatest number of cases, but sometimes involving the soft tissues as well, the latter form being the most serious. Catarrhal laryngitis is that form in which the mucous membrane alone is inflamed. Laryngitis is a very serious affection, and often termi- nates fatally, sometimes within a remarkably short space of time. In some cases a thickened condition of the mucous LARYNGITIS 9 membrane is caused by a copious and rapid effusion into the submucous tissue, swelling is great, the laryngeal muscles are greatly interfered with, or cease to act alto- gether, the glottal opening becomes partially or wholly closed, and death takes place by suffocation. Causes.—The various conditions causing laryngitis are about the same as those causing simple catarrh, i.¢., ex- posure to contagion, changes of temperature, and more particularly if sudden, draughts of cold air, balling with a stick, administration of irritant medicines, as ammonia, etc., not sufficiently diluted. The discase sometimes appears in an epizéutic form, most commonly occurring as an epiziotic during the spring or autumn months, this form very probably being due to organisms aided by atmospheric influences. Symptoms.—Usually the first symptoms observed are dul- ness of the animal and difficulty in swallowing. When drinking, part of the water returns through the posterior nares into the nasal chambers, and out through the nostrils. The neck and head are held in a stiff position generally, with the nose elevated and poked out in an endeavour to bring the air-passages as nearly as possible on a line. There may be a flow of saliva from the mouth, as the throat irritation will cause the animal to move his tongue about, and thus increase or stimulate the flow of saliva. In most cases of laryngitis a rise in temperature is noticed. If the increase is well marked, it indicates the case to be a severe one. A cough is usually present, which changes in character as the disease increases or decreases in severity, at one time being hoarse and dry, at another time of the variety des- cribed as moist cough. Coughing is easily excited by pressure on the larynx, or by an attempt on the part of the animal to drink. The state of the circulation varies—in some cases strong, in other cases weak ; pulsations generally 10 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE number from sixty to seventy beats per minute; tongue sticky, hot, and slightly furred ; all the visible mucous mem- branes are reddened, and there is a more or less abundant flow of tears. The breathing may or may not be difficult, but is quickened in all cases. There may be a swelling of the limbs at a certain stage of the disease, and a discharge from the nostrils, which, if profuse and coming away freely, is to be regarded as a favourable sign, the thermometer at this time showing a decrease in the animal’s temperature. In a case about to terminate fatally, the Schneiderian mem- brane assumes a livid hue, the pulse becomes rapid and weak, the extremities become deathly cold and cedematous, cold sweats bedew the body, rapid prostration of strength follows, and death soon takes place. Treatment.—It is very important that the patient should have an abundance of pure air—should be placed in a dry and comfortable loose-box, thoroughly ventilated and free from draughts. Hand-rub the legs well, apply flannel bandages, and clothe the body according to the season. An abundance of pure cold water should be supplied, which (if the animal will take it) is valuable to allay fever. All medi- cine should be given in the drinking water, if the animal can be induced to take it in that manner; if he will not take the medicine in his drinking water, it may be given in a draught, using water as the vehicle for its administration. Great care must be exercised in the administration of a draught to an animal suffering from laryngitis, a cough, or any attempt at coughing, on the part of the patient being regarded as a signal to allow the head to descend. If the pulse is hard and full, a few doses of aconite (Fleming’s tincture) may be given with beneficial results. Potassium chlorate as a gargle cools the mouth and refreshes the animal, and should be used often and freely. Potassium chlorate and nitrate may also be given dissolved in the + J LARYNGITIS—TRACHEOTOMY It drinking water. Oft-repeated and long-continued inhala- tions of steam are probably productive of greater good than any other remedial measure. The inhalations may be en- hanced in value by the addition of some antiseptic or seda- tive drug, as creasote, eucalyptus, terebene, or opium, bella- donna, etc, ; and belladonna extract, in conjunction with ipecacuanha, in doses of a drachm each, may be given with benefit. Fomentations to the affected part, if continued for an hour or two, are productive of much relief, by relax- ing and soothing the intlamed tissues. After fomenting, the parts should be rubbed gently until quite dry. The throat is now to be kept warm by the application of hot wool, retained in place by a bandage. In some cases hot poultices may be used. Bran, linseed, turnips, or bread may be used. A stimulating application, as the ammo- niacal liniment, mustard, or even a slight blister, may be applied to the throat, always taking into consideration the season of the year and the condition of the patient. Medicines may be conveyed into the system in the form of an electuary, which the animal will readily take, a useful one being as follows: Tannin, 3i.; Spts. Vini Gallici, 3ii— sili, ; Mellis, 3iii—3iv. In cases which, in spite of treat- ment, increase in severity, and death by suffocation is imminent, recourse must be had to the operation of Trache- otomy as a last resort. The incision should be made about on a level with the third and fourth tracheal rings. Some operators excise portions of two or more rings, leaving a circular opening into the trachea. There is no necessity for so doing, a simple incision completely severing two rings answering all practical purposes. The tracheotomy tube should be carefully inserted, and secured in place by a strap passing around the neck. The tube should be com- posed of some non-corrosive material, as nickel, silver, or vulcanite, and should be removed and well cleansed 12 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE twice a day. Another and a very rare form of laryngitis is characterized by the formation of false membranes. Results—As results of laryngitis, we may have a thickened condition of the mucous membrane of the part, or atrophy of the laryngeal muscles, producing roaring, ulceration of the rima glottidis, and sundry abnormal growths and conditions, proving a constant source of irrita- tion to the highly sensitive parts, and offering an explana- tion for the troublesome cough which in so many cases fre- quently exists for months after the acute symptoms of laryngitis have disappeared. Thickening of the mucous membrane is to be treated by a course of potassium iodide internally, and frequent application of vesicants externally, into the composition of which it is recommended that a certain proportion of iodine, or potassium iodide, be allowed to enter. When it is suspected that the process of atrophy of the laryngeal muscles is going on, chlorate of potash should be given with the view of arresting the muscular degeneration. Nerve- stimulants may also be tried. NASAL GLEET This discase is also known as Chronic Catarrh, Ozena, etc. Definition.—A. catarrhal disease, characterized by a per- sistent discharge from the nostrils. It may result, in some cases, from a subacute inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the nasal chambers, or it may involve the various sinuses of the head. Pus is formed, which undergoes various changes, according to the length of time it has existed ; and it may be exceedingly feetid, or, on the other hand, may be absolutely devoid of odour. In an old case of nasal yleet, where the bones have become involved in the destructive process, the odour is indescribably offensive, and much worse NASAL GLEET 13 than the odour emitted by a case of glanders. (It should be borne in mind, however, that either disease may exist in a fully developed form without giving rise to any odour whatever.) In nasal gleet the turbinated bones often become affected, and may present a sarcomatous condition. Causes.—Nasal gleet frequently exists as a sequel to a neglected case of simple catarrh, It is also due, in some cases, to long-continued exposure and neglect, the animal receiving an insufficient supply of nutritive food ; a common practice among farmers being to allow an animal to run out all winter with very little, or perhaps no shelter, and no food, except that afforded by the straw-stack. Injury to the bones also is a frequent cause. It is not at all neces- sary that the bones should be fractured to produce nasal gleet ; the animal may receive a blow, in consequence of which a small bloodvessel may be ruptured ; a clot forms, acts as a foreign body, sets up an irritation which gradually spreads in all directions, until a well-marked case of nasal gleet is the result. The disease also exists in some cases as a symptom of carious teeth, wherein the caries has extended to and involved the osseous structures. Inspis- sated or dried pus, however small in quantity, by acting as an irritant foreign body, is also an occasional cause. Symptoms.—All chronic nasal discharges should be re- garded with suspicion, and should be given a careful ex- amination to ascertain their nature, as most serious results would be likely to follow a mistaken diagnosis wherein a case of glanders was pronounced to be a case of nasal gleet. A good knowledge of anatomy is of the utmost importance in making the differential diagnosis. The nasal discharge, at first white, before long becomes yellow, and adheres rather tenaciously around the nostrils, but is often flaky and not so viscid as the discharge of glanders. The Schneiderian membrane is reddened at first, but soon takes on a livid 14 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE hue, and may present an abraded surface, but no ulceration. In some cases the submaxillary glands are found to be slightly enlarged. Percussion over the region of the sinuses yields a dull, dead sound, instead of the resonant sound emitted on percussion of the parts when healthy. Slight enlargement of the affected sinuses may be observed. A large accumulation of pus will give rise to laboured respira- tion. The pus is exceedingly offensive in odour where the osseous structures are involved. Nasal gleet is not a con- tagious disease. Treatment.—Isolation as a precautionary measure should be adopted ; endeavour to find and remove the cause. The patient should be kept in well-ventilated quarters, and the diet should be of a highly nutritive character, and sup- plied in liberal quantities. The animal should be allowed to rest, or, at the most, do only light work. The bowels and kidneys are to be kept in as nearly a normal condition as possible, and good grooming is a matter of some import- auce. The nostrils should be kept clean by sponging. The medicinal agents indicated are those which tend to restrain undue activity of the mucous membrane, and at the same time exert a general tonic and alterative action. Ferri Sulphate is often productive of good results, as are the following : potassium iodide, copper sulphate, cantharides, the latter being given in doses of grs. v.—x. Frequent changes of medicines should be made; a combination of iodine and iron, forming iodide of iron, is probably the best agent known in the treatment of nasal gleet, to be given in doses of 3i.—3ii. twice a day ; Ferri Sulph. 3i.—2ii., Acid. Arsen., grs. ii.—v. twice a day, is another prescription highly thought of. Strychnia or nux vomica may be sub- stituted for the arsenious acid in the usual doses. In some cases counter-irritation (as a blister applied over the part) is attended with marked benefit; the nasal chambers may NASAL GLEET—TREPHINING 15 be injected with a weak solution of carbolic acid. There is also a very good instrument known as an insufflator now in use, by which the parts may be dusted with various agents in the form of an exceedingly fine powder. There is also a spray diffuser, by means of which various solutions may be beneficially employed. Various medicinal agents may also be employed in the form of vapour; the chief difficulty in the treatment of nasal gleet is the situation of the diseased structures, and their almost total inaccessi- bility. When the sinuses are filled with the accumulated pus, and the bones are involved, medicinal agents are use- less, and the operation of Trephining must be performed to allow the escape of the pus. As a rule it is not difficult tv trephine ; in some cases the diseased bones are soft enough to admit of being cut with a knife. After trephining, the cavities should be syringed with a solution of carbolic acid in tepid water; give alteratives and tonics with a liberal diet, and generally a cure can be effected. In cases where the turbinated bones are affected, as a rule a cure cannot be accomplished. If the trouble is due to the presence of a carious tooth, it should be removed at once. There is a case on record where a carious tooth made its way into the frontal sinus. Hydrastis canadensis is very useful in some cases. Mallein may be used as a deter- mining test as to whether the case is glanders ; nasal gleet, if neglected, becomes in many cases an incurable disease. Abscess of the Turbinated Bones.—This disease may cause nasal gleet. : Causes.—Abscess of the turbinated bones may be caused by injuries, presence of foreign bodies, etc. Symptoms.—There will be a discharge of pus from the nostrils, which may be increased in quantity by elevating the head of the animal for a few moments, then suddenly depressing it. 16 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE Treatment.—Trephine, and allow what pus is present to escape, then remove all diseased bone* or touch with dilute hydrochloric acid; after-treatment should consist of anti- septic or astringent injections, varying the drugs from time to time at discretion. Acidum Hydrochlor. (one part to fifty of water) is an excellent application to diseased bone. Thickening of Mucous Membrane lining the Nose.— Causes.—This condition sometimes occurs during debility, in advancing age, and after irritant or too powerful injec- tions. Symptoms.—A snuffling sound is heard during respiration, and there is usually some nasal discharge. Treatment.—Difficult ; give tonics internally, and astrin- gent injections gradually increasing in strength, Nasal Tumours, or Polypii—These growths are usually of a fibrous character, and are characterized by a small pedicle or neck, with a free expanded extremity. Nasal polypi are of far more common occurrence in man than in our patients. These growths may exist high up or low down, and according to their situation they are visible or invisible. A polypus may exist, being invisible for a con- siderable Jength of time, and finally by increase in size become plainly visible to the examiner. Causes.—These growths are often a sequel to irritation of the mucous membrane lining the parts, and frequently occur without any apparent cause for their presence. Symptoms.—There is generally a discharge from the nostril on the affected side, the discharge sometimes being tinged with blood; a snuffling sound may be heard during respiration, the breathing being seriously interfered with at times, even to such an extent as to cause the animal to fall down. * The hemorrhage which follows removal of the turbinated bones is often very difficult to stop and may even cause a fatal result. OSSEOUS TUMOURS 17 Treatment.—If possible, seize the polypus close to the neck with the forceps and twist it off, or a fine ecraseur may be passed up the nostril, and the offending body removed this way. Osseous Tumours. —Osseous tumours sometimes occur in the nasal cavities, Symptoms.—Are those presented by the presence of any obstruction in the nasal cavities, as difficult breath- ing, ete. Treatment.—Prompt removal of the offending growth, when accessible, is in all instances to be effected by means of the bone-saw and forceps. Cysts.—In connection with the false nostrils, enlarge- ments—erroneously described by some as tumours—are met with: they are rather small in size, and, if true, cysts usually contain sebaceous material. Treatment.—The removal of these enlargements may be accomplished in a few cases by various applications; but the best ways are either to make an opening with a lancet, and allow the contents to escape, or to carefully dissect out the cyst wall and afterwards treat antiseptically, Pharyngeal Polypi.—Polypi are occasionally met with in the pharynx, and usually have a constricted base. Symptoms.—The irritation of the parts may possibly give rise to a slight discharge from the nostrils ; the breathing is at times very difficult, and the animal will show symptoms of suffocation, will pull back on the halter, and perhaps fall, after which he may rise, breathe heavily, and be all right in a short time. Treatment,—Examine the throat: the mouth speculum may advantageously be used in the examination. If the polypus has a broad base, it had better not be interfered with. If the base is constricted, you may cast the animal and remove it with the ecraseur. The hemorrhage is often 2 18 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE very excessive, and there is always danger of the blood escaping into the larynx, and thus finding its way into the lungs and causing death. It is very difficult to get at the part, and unless all the conditions, as age of the animal, etc., are favourable, an operation should only be attempted as a last resort. Epistaxis: Bleeding from the Nose.—Bleeding from the nose may occur as a symptom of various diseases, as glanders, purpura hwmorrhagica, etc. ; or it may occur as the result of an injury, as a blow, kick, etc., causing rupture of a bloodvessel in the nose. Nasal bloodvessels are also ruptured sometimes in consequence of severe exertion, and bleeding occurs now and then without any apparent cause. It is often difficult to arrest. Symptoms.—A flow of blood, generally from one nostril only, but occasionally from both nostrils. Treatment.—Astringent solutions may be forced into the nasal chambers. The various preparations of iron are useful ; solutions of lead acetate, alum, etc., are also useful. In some persistent cases, plugging one nostril may have to be resorted to; cold water or ice may also be applied externally. A string should be attached to the plug, for the purpose of removing it when necessary. HAMOPTYSIS : HEMORRHAGE FROM THE LUNGS Hemorrhage of the lung usually occurs in connection with, and as a symptom of, some diseased condition of the lung structure, as pulmonary congestion, etc. The primary cause in a great many cases is the performance of some severe exertion by the animal when not in suitable con- dition ; most commonly met with in horses accustomed to HEMOPTYSIS 19 * fast work, as trotting and running horses; and a plethoric animal], on being put to a little extra exertion, will some- times suffer from pulmonary hemorrhage. Symptoms.—The blood issues from both nostrils ; cough- ing is present, showing laryngeal or tracheal irritation ; respiration becomes quickened, and on auscultation over the region of the trachea, a peculiar rattling or gurgling sound is heard. This sound is caused by the air rushing through the obstructing blood and mucus; if the hemor- rhage is very considerable, there will be blanching of the visible mucous membranes and coldness of the extremities, whilst considerable weakness and dulness will be exhibited by the patient. Heemorrhages may also take place from the trachea, bronchial tubes, ete. Treatment.—The animal should be placed in a well-venti- lated loose-box, any undue weakness should be combated by administration of stimulants—alcoholic stimulants being the best of all—the patient should be kept as quiet as possible and well clothed, the limbs should be well hand- rubbed, and then bandaged with flannel ; refrigerant appli- cations, as cold water or ice, may be applied to the sides of the chest. Medicinal remedies are those which tend to support the animal strength and combat the hemorrhage ; the latter are Ol. Terebinth, Plumbi Acetas, Opium, Acidum Gallic, Tinct. Ferri Perchloridi, etc, to be given in the usual doses as the exigencies of the case demand. An animal, after having suffered from hemoptysis, should be used very carefully, and not put to any great exertion for a long time afterwards. 20 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE ABNORMAL SOUNDS High Blowing consists of a peculiarly loud, rushing noise caused in some horses during a gallop. It is due to some interference with the free ingress and egress of air. It may be very objectionable, but is not usually classed as an unsoundness. Roaring may be defined as breathing with a loud and unnatural sound, the sound being emitted more particularly during the inspiratory act, and upon the animal being put to violent exertion. Wheezing and whistling are modifications of the same disorder, and both finally terminate in roaring. Snuffing is a frequent accompaniment of catarrhal diseases, or where there is a nasal discharge, as in influenza, glanders, etc. Snoring is symptomatic of some nasal obstruction, as a polypus, etc.; this sound also occurs as a symptom of brain disease. Sneezing is indicative of an irritable condition of the nasal mucous membrane. Grunting.—This sound is referable to the larynx, and may or may not be connected with disease; it usually accompanies roaring, and is always to be regarded with suspicion. Any painful disease may cause an animal to grunt, and some animals have an ugly habit of grunting without the presence of disease. Cough may be defined to be a laryngeal sound, pro- duced by the violent expulsion of air from the lungs. Suppressed cough is the sound emitted by the animal when suffering from a disease in which the effort of cough- ing is accompanied by pain; this form of cough is pretty characteristic of pleurisy. Chronic cough frequently exists without any apparent cause ; it also occurs as a sequel of laryngitis, and is some- ABNORMAL SOUNDS 21 times associated with chest diseases, indigestion, derange- ment of the pneumogastric nerve, etc. Chronic cough is easily detected by a slight pressure of the larynx, and is usually of a hollow, dry sound. Treatment.—Bad hay and oats, dusty food, etc., should be carefully avoided, and the following very simple, but never- theless very good, remedy in some cases is worthy of a trial: Antimon. Tart. 3i. twice a day for nine or ten days. Another old and powerful remedy, which was highly thought of by Professor Dick, is as follows: Hydrarg. Subchlor., Digitalis, Camphore, Opii Pulv. 4a. Zss.; to be given in a bolus every other morning before feeding. Bronchocele.—Close to, and behind the larynx, is situated the thyroid gland. This gland frequently becomes hyper- trophied, constituting an affection known as bronchocele. It seldom does any harm. The disease is said to be most common in limestone districts. Treatment. — Applications frequently renewed of Un- guentum Jodi, or Unguentum Iodi Comp., as follows, Potassium Iodid. 3i., Iodum 5i., Adeps Jiv., are the most successful. The gland may be removed by excision, but the operation should not be resorted to in any but ex- ceptional cases, and the two lobes should never be removed except as a last resort, because marasmus, ending in death, is the usual sequel.* ROARING This condition, which is a most serious one, may be defined as breathing with a loud and unnatural sound. * According to Chauveau (‘Comparative Anatomy,’ Fleming's trans- lation), ‘the successive or simultaneous excision of the two lobes in the horse does not appear to cause any derangement of the animal’s health.’ In the dog, however, the usual, if not certain, sequel is lassitude, rapid wasting, and death. 22 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE Properly speaking, roaring in itself is not a disease, but is a symptom of disease. The condition is due to paralysis of the vocal cords and atrophy of the dilator muscles of the larynx, the muscles affected being the crico-arytenoideus, posticus, and lateralis, the arytenoideus, and the thyro- arytenoideus. A variety of causes have been assigned for roaring. Mal- formation of any of the air-passages, obstruction of the nasal cavities, occlusion of one of the nostrils, etc., will produce the sound; but in a pure case of advanced roaring the muscles above-mentioned are paralyzed, or atrophied, in consequence of which the laryngeal opening is not properly dilated, and the air rushing in during inspiration comes in contact with the loosely-flapping parts of the larynx, and produces the sound known as roaring. Roaring, from any cause whatever, constitutes an unsoundness. Causes.—Any immediate irritation, as laryngitis, etc., by interfering with the nervous supply of the part, has a ten- dency to bring about the disease, by causing degeneration of the muscular fibre. Strangles involving the larynx is also sometimes followed by roaring. In many cases the disease may be traced to an hereditary predisposition on the part of the animal, certain strains of all breeds of horses being peculiarly liable to this disease. Conformation undoubtedly exerts a powerful influence in this direction. Animals having a long neck and narrow in the submaxillary space should always be regarded with suspicion; for although’ such an animal is not by any means necessarily a roarer, he is undoubtedly predisposed to the disease. Tight-reining may also be regarded as a fruitful cause of roaring. Another theory propounded recently is that the recurrent branch of the pneumogastric nerve, being influenced by the lymphatic glands, which lie in close proximity to its course, becomes irritated ; irregular nervous action is the result, and the ROARING 23 laryngeal muscles, on account of perverted nutrition, undergo fatty degeneration, or become wholly or partially paralyzed, in consequence of which the disorder known as roaring becomes established. When caused by strangles, it is generally due to the form known as ‘irregular’ or ‘bastard.’ Symptoms.—It is chiefly when the animal is excited or sharply exercised that the sound is produced. In ordinary cases it is only during inspiration that the sound is made, but in bad cases the sound is emitted also during the per- formance of the expiratory act. A moderate canter is not always sufficient to expose the roarer. The proper way to examine for and discover roaring is as follows : The animal should be made to attain as high a degree of excitement as possible, then should be galloped past the examiner at full speed, and preferably on an ascending grade. The animal, after one or two runs, may be pulled up short, close to the examiner, who, by immediately placing his ear to the nostrils and larynx of the animal, will be able to detect any abnormal sound. The above method of examination is to be recommended in all cases, as some cases of roaring are so slight as to be barely dis- coverable by the most severe tests. Another way to test an animal for roaring is as follows: Have the animal gently trotted, after which he is to be coughed, due observation being made of the character of the cough ; after which the animal is to be placed by a wall, his head firmly held by the attendant. The examiner now makes a feint, as though going to strike the animal, which latter naturally starts for- ward very suddenly, and, if affected, will usually take a deep inspiration, and emit the grunt peculiar to roarers. But such a test cannot be regarded as an entirely satisfactory one. A case may occasionally be met with wherein the animal whistles slightly, the sound being due to a slightly 24 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE thickened condition of the mucous membrane of the larynx, caused by an attack of laryngitis a month or so previously. This sound is evidence of unsoundness at the time it is present, but the animal may entirely recover in course of time; but in cases where the anatomical conformation of neck mentioned above is present, it is safe to say that the whistler will finally become a roarer. Paralysis of the vocal cords, giving rise to roaring well marked, is generally incurable. Treatment.—Careful attention should be paid to the diet. The food should be of the best, and given in moderate quantities. Moderate exercise is beneficial. Counter-irri- tation, as a pretty strong vesicant to the throat, may be followed by a remission of the symptoms. Potassium iodide in doses of one drachm twice a day will sometimes effect a cure in recent cases, if slight. Another mode of treatment highly thought of and especially recommended by Mr. George Fleming, is the use of the galvanic battery, perse- vered in day after day until some improvement is perceived or the case is decided to be hopeless. At the same time nerve stimulants may be given internally, as in many cases the trouble is undoubtedly due to lack of proper nervous influence. Where such is suspected to be the case, nux vomica in drachm doses, or the alkaloid strychnia in doses of two grains, may be given a couple of times daily. A peculiarity of this disease is that it is nearly always the muscles of the left side which undergo the degenerative process ; but disease causing roaring is essentially a disease of a progressive character, and sometimes it exists to such a degree in old cases, where probably the muscles of both sides are atrophied, that a trot of a hundred yards will cause the animal to stop and show symptoms of suffocation, as staggering and roaring, to an alarming degree. It is an act of mercy to destroy such an animal. However, the animal TRACHITIS 25 may be relieved by tracheotomy, and used for slow work, or arytenoidectomy may be performed. TRACHITIS Definition —Inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the trachea. Inflammation of the trachea is generally due to the presence of some foreign body, or exists as a complication of laryngitis, etc. Symptoms.—The respiration is somewhat laboured, and on auscultation of the tracheal region a rattling sound may be plainly heard, except in the early stages; there is a nasal discharge which relieves the trouble consider- ably. Treatment.—Clip the hair over the course of the trachea, and apply the am noniacal liniment, or mustard ; the latter being the best, as well as being a very safe application—in an hour or two it may be sponged off, especially if the horse becomes excited and irritable. Medicinal agents are Tr. Aconite, Potassium Chlorate, Potassium Nitrate, etc. Clothe the patient and keep out of draughts, and do not allow the animal to breathe very cold air. Tracheotomy.—Sometimes, as a result of tracheotomy, there is noticed a growth of a cartilaginous nature around the opening. Treatment.—Excise with scalpel and forceps, and if too far advanced, insert the tube lower down the trachea. Emphysema.—I recollect Professor Smith, in one of his lectures, making mention of a case coming under his observation, in which a slight opening existed at the upper part of the trachea, or lower part of the larynx, in conse- quence of which, during expiration, the air escaped through the opening into the areolar tissue and caused great dis- 25 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE tension of the part, which, however, did not persist for any great length of time, the swelling subsiding in consequence of absorption of the air taking place, when the presence of the opening into the trachea could by means of the fingers be plainly distinguished through the intervening soft tissues.* Treatment.—An incision should be made, cutting well down through the soft tissues until the abnormal opening lies fully exposed, after which a counter-irritant should be applied, and of a strength great enough to cause the exudation of material sufficient in quantity to close the opening. Enlargements over the course of the trachea are some- times met with, occurring with greatest frequency amongst colts. Treatment consists in the free application of counter-irri- tants, preferably such as contain iodine, or surgical removal. Thickening of the mucous membrane lining the trachea, constituting a chronic or simple inflammation of the trachea, sometimes occurs, giving rise to more or less difficult respiration, and perhaps aslight discharge from the nostrils. Treatment consists in the application of counter-irritants over the course of the trachea, the Ungt. Hydrarg. Biniod. and the ordinary Ungt. Iodi being useful, in conjunction with the administration internally of potassium iodide, nitrates, ete. * A similar case came to the London College Clinique in 1899. The patient, a mare, had a history of having fallen with her neck on the edge of the pavement. The skin of the neck was very emphysema- tous, and a small hole in the trachea could be distinctly felt. THE LUNGS 27 THE LUNGS are those two spongy organs, one on either side, situated in the thoracic cavity, which are the essential organs of respiration, and are composed of: first, the pleura, the bronchial tubes and the parenchyma, or lung substance proper. The lungs serve for the purpose of purifying the blood. In examining as to the state of the lungs, there are various methods by which the presence of disease may be detected, the chief ones being auscultation, percussion and palpation. Auscultation.—In health, on applying the ear to the sides of the thorax there may be heard a soft breezy sound, which is increased by excitement or exertion, and decreased by quietude ; this may be called the vesicular murmur. Percussion.—By percussion is understood striking upon tue surface; the fingers, or an instrument known as a pleximeter, being used for the purpose. The healthy part will yield a resonant sound upon being struck, and the diseased part yields sounds of various kinds. Palpation, or touching with the fingers. In some diseases (as pleurisy) pressure in the intercostal spaces causes pain. We have bronchitis, pneumonia, pleurisy, etc., occurring in connection with the lungs. In very many diseases affecting the chest, the lungs, pleuri, bronchi, etc., become all more or less affected—po.t-mortem examinations prove this. In connection with the larger bronchial tubes we have a snoring sound in disease ; this sound is known as the rhonchus rile. Sibilus.—This sound may be described as a whistling sound, and, when present, indicates more or less irritation in connection with the smaller bronchial tubes ; the sounds change more or less according to the nature and severity of the disease, and different sounds are produced during 28 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE different stages of the same disease, as, for instance, during the first stage of bronchitis the sound may be dry, while during the latter stages, when the mucous membranes are actively discharging, the sound becomes moist. CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS The lungs are supplied with blood by two sets of blood- vessels, known as the nutritive and functional bloodvessels ; the bronchial arteries and veins constitute the former, while the latter consists of the pulmonary arteries and veins, and is the system involved in congestion of the lungs. Definition.—Congestion of the lungs may be defined as partial or complete arrest of the pulmonary circulation ; a largely increased amount of blood is detained in the parts, causing an enlarged condition and functional derangement of the lungs. Congestion of the lungs is a forerunner of pneumonia and other pulmonary affections, or it may occur as an independent disease. Causes.—Congestion of the lungs is very common at certain seasons of the year; in Canada the disease being of most frequent occurrence during the spring; the ex- planation being that on account of the length and severity of the winter season many horses are kept standing in the stable, fed well, and get no exercise; on the appearance of fine weather they are taken out, put to hard work, and congestion of the lungs is a frequent result. In England the disease is of frequent occurrence amongst hunting horses at the beginning of the hunting season, the horses being put to rapid work and severe exertion when not in fit condition. Driving an animal while suffering from an attack of simple catarrh, influenza, etc., quartering in damp, badly ventilated stables, impure air, draughts, etc., are all causes of congestion of the lungs. The condition occurs CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS 29 occasionally as a symptom of cardiac derangement, ete. The disease may, or may not, run a favourable course in a very short period ; a horse may die in twenty-four hours from the time the first symptom was manifested. A very slight congestion is sufficient to cause death, providing a large portion of lung tissue is involved. The disease runs its course to a termination, favourable or otherwise, within a period varying from eight or ten hours to several days. Symptoms.—Symptoms vary to a greater or less extent, but I will describe a case as it occurs in the usual form as a result of ordinary causes. A horse suffering from catarrh has been driven, is rubbed over and put in the stable ; he is observed to shiver, the body becomes very cold, in some cases the extremities also become deathly cold ; all food is refused ; on auscultation rhonchus rale is discovered ; the mouth is hot, more or less constipation is observed, pulse sixty, seventy, or eighty beats per minute; as a rule the patient persists in retaining a standing position; in some exceptional cases, where tympanites occurs, the animal may lie down to relieve the intestinal pain; the breathing is quickened, and somewhat difficult in most cases. A horse, after being driven a few miles, more especially if at a sharp pace, and the animal not in fit condition, will begin to lag, appears sluggish, the Schneiderian membrane is reddened, breathing becomes very difficult, the nostrils flap during respiration. This flapping of the nostrils is very characteristic, and is a valuable diagnostic symptom. Cold sweats bedew the body, and the body, ears, and extremities become deathly cold (in warm weather the coldness of the body, ears, and extremities is not so well marked as during cold weather) ; the ears flap, or droop ; in some cases the pulse is indistinct, in other cases not so much so; the temperature gradually rises, there is trembling of the 30 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE flanks, and on auscultation the characteristic sounds of congestion of the lungs are heard. Allow the animal to stand quietly in plenty of cool, fresh air, and he will often recover ; but drive him in this condition and death will result. Treatment.—The treatment of congestion of the lungs is not at all difficult, and if proper, the result is usually satisfactory. The treatment should be energetic ; whatever it is intended to do, should be done without loss of time. A diffusible stimulant should be given as soon as possible, as Spts. Aith. Nit., or Auth. Sulph., in doses of 3i.—3ii., the first named being the best; repeat the dose in a couple of hours, or until the pulse shows improvement, when the administration of stimulants should cease. Ammonia, ale, whisky, etc., are all highly useful stimulants, and may be given in the usual quantities. The body of the patient should be well clothed; the legs should be well hand- rubbed and bandaged with flannel bandages, or fomenta- tions (the water being as warm as the animal can stand) to the legs, and continued for some time, are highly beneficial. Enemas containing a sufficient quantity of O]. Terebinth. may be given with the two-fold object in view of clearing out the rectum, removing any hardened feeces it may con- tain, and at the same time producing a stimulant effect of a mild diffusible character. Cloths wrung out of hot water may be placed on the sides, or, in some cases, mustard is applied. It should be borne in mind that during all this time the animal should be kept in a well-ventilated loose- box, or other place where the free access of plenty of pure air would not be interfered with. After the most violent symptoms have subsided, Ol. Lini 3vi.—3viii. may be given if constipation is present; however, it is seldom needed. Venesection may be practised, and is of benefit in certain cases ; four, five, or six quarts of blood being abstracted, to CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS 31 be followed in an hour or so by the administration of a diffusible stimulant. Arnica Tr., in doses of 3i.—3ii. is recommended by Williams. A little gentian may be added to either of the draughts above mentioned; a slightly stimulating embrocation applied to the extremities acts beneficially on account of its warmth-producing power. In cases where weakness and general debility are manifested after the acute symptoms have passed off, ale, whisky, ther, etc., with a little gentian, may be given daily until some improvement is observed ; at the same time thorough grooming, regular exervise, and proper feeding are of the utmost importance. Bran, carrots, or anything the animal will eat, may be allowed in moderate quantities. In cases where the lungs become gangrenous, as they sometimes do within a surprisingly short time, the pulse becomes very weak and quick, the whole of the body surface becomes deathly cold ; the animal persistently stands up, turns to the door, is of a listless appearance generally ; the countenance has a haggard appearance. The respiration now is not attended with as much difficulty as in the earlier stages, the breath becomes foetid, and death soon follows. Sometimes spasm of the diaphragm occurs in connection with a case of congestion of the lungs. PNEUMONIA. Definition.—Inflammation of the lung-substance. This condition is a frequent result of pulmonary congestion, and is often associated with other diseases, as pleurisy, bron- chitis, etc. When pleurisy and pneumonia co-exist, the disease is termed pleuro-pneumonia. The symptoms of the above-named diseases do not differ very much, and the treatment for all is about the same. In pneumonia one or both lungs may be affected. When both lungs are involved 32 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE in the inflammatory process, it is usually as a result of congestion, and death is a frequent termination. In most cases only one lung, or a portion of it, is involved. Pneu- monia may be croupous, catarrhal, or interstitial. Several changes take place during the progress of a case of pneumonia, which may be described as follows: First stage is that of hyperemia, characterized by an excess of blood in the part. As a usual thing exudation speedily follows, and solidification commences. The first stage may be called arterial injection, engorgement, or con- gestion, the first-named term being probably the best. If treatment can be commenced in this stage, the sequel is much more likely to be favourable. 2nd. ‘Red hepatization’ is the term applied to the second stage. At this time the lung-substance has undergone a more or less destructive process, and will readily sink on being placed in water, its weight having largely increased as the exudate became solidified. In case the patient re- covers after the disease has attained this stage, the exudate is removed by the process of absorption, and the lung gradually regains its former condition. At this stage the lung, on being cut into, presents a much redder colour than that of the healthy lung. 3rd. ‘Grey hepatization’ is the term applied to the third stage of pneumonia, in contradistinction to ‘red hepatiza- tion’; but the difference of colour is not always well marked. The change from red to grey hepatization is very gradual. The lung-tissue has no air in it, and sinks in water. When this stage is reached, death is the usual result. The diseased spot may be circumscribed, and not spread. This is parti- cularly common in pleuro-pneumonia of the ox. The various stages are uncertain as to duration, engorgement in some cases lasting for a very brief period, and terminating in hepatization. Pneumonia may justly be described as a PNEUMONIA 33 very insidious disease, frequently proceeding to a very great extent without showing many signs of its presence. Causes.—Among the predisposing causes may be enume- rated the following: exposure to cold and dampness, standing in a draught, neglected catarrh, An animal suffering from a case of simple catarrh, on being put to work, will often develop a case of pneumonia. It may occur as a result of some irritant substance, as medicine, gaining access to the lungs, inhalation of smoke, badly ventilated stables. It is now recognised that the true cause of the great majority of cases of pneumonia is an organism. Bacteriologists have on numerous occasions demonstrated a streptococcus to be present in the fluid in the lungs of horses and other animals which have died of pneumonia. Liguiéres, Schutz, and others have also found this organism. It is biologically identical with the streptococcus of strangles, and Liguieres has asserted that it is the same organism (‘Journal of Comparative Pathology and Thera- peutics,’ vol. xi, p. 328). It may occur as a result of contact with glanderous horses, and is then termed ‘glan- derous pneumonia.’ Pneumonia is also sometimes a sequel to various respiratory diseases, as bronchitis, laryngitis, ete. Syiytons.—The disease is ushered in by rigors, which are usually, but not always, well marked. Respiration is not affected to any great extent at first. Pulse quickened, varying from sixty to eighty beats per minute, and perhaps full. The mouth is hot, and has a peculiar feeling of stickiness ; temperature becomes increased ; all the visible mucous membranes are reddened, highly injected, and dry, indicating the presence of the febrile stage. Ears and legs are usually cold, but sometimes alternately hot and cold. Another characteristic of this disease is that the horse per- sistently retains the upright posture, while the ox as per- sistently remains in a recumbent position. There are 3 34 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE exceptional cases, where the congestion is very severe or the pleura is affected, when he will lie down, but will rise almost immediately, not having found the expected relief. The animal will face the door so as to get the fresh air. The respirations are normally about ten per minute, but are increased in this trouble. Auscultation and percussion are material aids in diagnosis. The vesicular murmur is in- creased, giving rise to a sort of crepitating sound, which has been compared to the sound produced by rubbing a lock of hair between the fingers in close proximity to the ear, This sound is heard during the first stage or period of arterial injection, while the lung is still struggling to perform its functions. Soon a copious exudation takes place, which after awhile solidifies. This condition is de- noted on auscultation by the absence of all sound in the diseased structure. In cases where the exudate breaks up, liquefaction beginning to take place, a sort of ringing sound may be heard on auscultation, showing that the tubes are regaining their former condition. Percussion over the region of a diseased lung yields a dull, dead sound ; a reso- nant sound being emitted if the structure is in a normal condition. The right lung is more likely to become affected, and, as a matter of fact, does more frequently become affected than the left lung. Fortunately the whole lung or both lungs are not often involved in the inflammatory process, or death would quickly ensue. Abdominal breathing may be observed ; appetite is poor or entirely absent. In certain cases, consolidation of the lung structure may occur within forty-eight hours from the appearance of the first symptom, but, as a rule, it takes longer. In cases likely to terminate fatally the pulse runs up, becoming quicker and weaker ; the respirations become increased in number, and more difficult. A very bad symptom, after a few days’ ill- ness, is flapping of the nostrils; in such cases, usually in PNEUMONIA 35 the course of four or five days, a brownish or rusty-coloured discharge may be observed flowing from the nostrils, the eyes take on an amaurotic stare, and the patient seems to be unconscious of everything going on around him. The pulse now becomes almost indistinct, body and extremities deathly cold, and the mouth somewhat cold, the patient may lie down for a few minutes, turn his head to his side, then get up, stagger, fall, and riseno more. The horse retains the standing posture in this disease because it affords greater relief than any other position. Death may ensue in from three to twenty days. In a case terminating favourably, a general remission of the symptoms is noticed, the pulse be- comes slower and increased in volume, the animal tempera- ture decreases, the appetite gradually returns, and by auscultation and percussion we are enabled to detect the various signs of improvement taking place within. Pneu- monia is always a serious disease even if taken in time and treated properly. Treatment.—Place the patient in a well-ventilated, dry loose-box, free from draughts. Pure air and pure cold water are essentials in the treatment of pneumonia. Blood- letting was at one time practised to a great extent, but the practitioners of to-day know better ; it is safer, as a general thing, to make a judicious use of stimulants, but in those few and exceptional cases where a sedative is required Aconite Tr. (Fleming’s), M x., may be administered occa- sionally until the desired effect is produced. Another agent useful as a febrifuge and diuretic is potassium nitrate. It may be given in a draught or in the drinking water of the patient, if he will take it—about 5vi. should be given in the course of twenty-four hours: it also exerts a beneficial action on the blood. When the circulation is weak, stimu- lants are indicated, as Liq. Ammon., Acet. with Spts. Etheris Nitrosi, etc., to be given in the usual quantities, 3—2 36 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE and as often as occasion requires. The animal should be well clothed, according to the season of the year; the legs should be well hand-rubbed and bandaged with flannel ; good nursing is indispensable and of the utmost importance ; the appetite should be tempted by tit-bits, or the offer of relishable food in small quantities, and of a kind nutritious and easily digested. Bran-mashes do not amount to much in the way of nourishment, the percentage of nutritive material being too small. A small mash containing oats, or oats alone, boiled or raw, may be given if the animal will eat ; great benefit accrues from giving roots, as carrots, etc. Very great harm is done by too frequent administration of draughts, as the stomach is very weak; and while the draughts should not be bulky, they should be composed of stimulants and nutritives in a concentrated form, as brandy, wine, milk, beef-tea, etc. All, or any combination of the above, may be placed in the drinking water, if he will take it that way, and he generally will. Counter-irritation is of the greatest benefit in pneumonia, if applied judiciously and the effect watched. Cloths wrung out of hot water, applied to the chest and covered with a dry cloth, are fre- quently of great benefit; but of course the nature of the application should depend upon the season or the state of the weather. Liuseed poultices are good applications, and mustard applications are often of benefit. Whenever signs of amendment become apparent the excessive administration of medicines should be guarded against. Sometimes a pretty powerful sedative may be given to relieve the more distressing symptoms. If constipation is present, the action of the bowels should be solicited by frequent enemas of warm water ; and during convalescence a laxative dict should be given; violent purgatives are absolutely forbidden, but magnesium sulphate is very useful on account of its laxative and febrifuge properties. Iodide of potassium may be given PLEURISY 37 during convalescence, and colchicum is also useful. The hardy Canadian horses do not succumb to pneumonia as readily as the larger breeds, and stand antiphlogistic measures better. Pneumonia sometimes occurs as a result of influenza. PLEURISY Definition.—Inflammation of the pleura. Pleurisy or pleuritis, as this disease is also sometimes termed, often exists in connection with pneumonia; uever- theless, it sometimes exists as an independent affection, as is often proved by the fact of an animal dying of effusion into the pleural cavity, and the lung-substance on examina- tion being found to have undergone no change. Inflamma- tion of a serous membrane, if extensive, constitutes a dangerous condition. There is a cavity known as the pleural cavity situated between, and formed by, the pleura pulmonalis and the pleura costalis ; here, exuded from the two membranes, is a small quantity of fluid—serum—just sufficient being secreted to lubricate the parts and enable them to move smoothly. When the pleura becomes involved in the inflammatory process, serum ceases to be secreted, and dryness of the membrane takes place, giving rise to the grating or crepitating sound heard on auscultation. This condition soon passes off, and effusion into the pleural cavity and formation of fibrinous bands take place. The fibrinous bands may be found in from two to four days after the disease appears. In pleurisy a certain amount of effusion inruriably takes place, and treatment is always directed with a view to preventing, if possible, the pouring out of a large quantity of fluid. When a copious flow takes place, it constitutes a condition known as hydro- thorax. Cuuses.—Pleurisy is caused by a specific organism, 38 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE although it may be predisposed by alternations of tempera- ture, exposure to cold and wet, and by the various conditions which cause pneumonia. During the prevalence of east winds in the old countries people and horses, as well as other animals, suffer from pleurisy. ; Symptoms.—Like other chest diseases it is usually ushered in with a chill, which soon passes off. The pulse is wiry, the animal stands with his feet out, asin laminitis, and occasion- ally lies down, but only for a very short time; the animal shows evidence of great pain: he is suffering from what are known as cutting pains. On auscultation the crepitating sounds caused by the pleural membranes moving over each other can be heard ; on coughing great pain is evinced, and the patient suppresses the cough as much as possible. This is called the suppressed cough; it is a characteristic of the disease, and is a valuable diagnostic symptom. The animal endeavours to keep the chest in a fixed position, and uses the abdominal muscles in the endeavour; this causes the formation of a well-marked ridge near the flank, easily seen in a gaunt horse. This is spoken of as the ‘ pleuritic’ line or ridge. In many cases relief is apparently afforded, usually about the third or fourth day, but sometimes as early as twenty-four hours from the commencement of the attack. The animal now stands quietly, and seems to be free from pain; this is the sign that an effusion of serum has taken place; and as dryness of the pleural membranes has ceased, the acute pain has in consequence also abated. In cases where a very copious effusion of serum has taken place, the circulation is found to be greatly affected. In pleurisy, as in pneumonia, the patient stands with the elbows turned out; percussion, palpation, etc., give rise to considerable pain ; the breathing is considerably interfered with, the respiration being short and difficult; a great amount of effusion may take place, rendering the case a hopeless PLEURISY 39 3 one, without any very well marked symptom being ob- served. Treatment.—Sedatives in a pure case of pleurisy can be pushed to a far greater extent than would be admissible in acase of pneumonia. Aconite may be given oftener, and in larger doses. If the pulse is full and bounding, febri- fuges are indicated ; and there are no better remedies than potasse nitras and colchicum. If the pulse is weak, the use of stimulants is indicated: warmth should be applied to the sides in some manner. A very good way is to apply hot water; the body should be well clothed, and an anodyne liniment may be applied to the sides. If the pain seems to be very severe, it may be relieved by Opii Pulv. 3i., or Opii Tr. 3i., to be repeated in four or five hours. If the bowels are constipated, their action may be solicited by enemas frequently repeated ; cathartics are neither good nor safe, as sometimes a quarter of an ounce of aloes will act with very great violence and cause bad results. In cases where some- thing must be given to operate on the bowels, salts or oil may be administered. Febrifuges such as ether, nitre, quinine, etc., are useful in the early stages, as are also such stimulants and tonics as cinchona, brandy, camphor, etc. Potassium iodide will aid in the removal of effusion. HYDROTHORAX Definition. —An excessive effusion of serum into the cavity of the chest. This condition is a result of pleurisy, some- times resulting from a very mild attack, and even in cases where every care is bestowed upon the animal. Hydro- thorax often exists when the practitioner is called in for the first time. Symptoms,—The symptoms are pretty plain. The respira- tions more or less difficult, short, and laboured, and of the 40 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE variety known as abdominal. Flapping of the nostrils is a well-marked symptom.