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6000327741
I
COMPENDIUM
THE VETERINARY ART:
contahono
plain and concrsb observations on thb construction
and management of the stable i
A BBI^ AND mPDLAB OOTUNB Or
THE STRIICTITRE AND ECONOMY OF THE HORSE;
TKI HATuaB, ■TMrTOHB, AKD TBEATMKNT OF THE HISEABBS AND
ACCIDBim TO WHICH THF HOBSE IB LIABLB ;
TUB UR MBTHODe OF PBRFOHUrNO VARIOVS IMPORTANT OPIRATtOmi
WITH „,-T~
ADYICE TO THE PURCHA8EB8 OF HOHSES ; ;^''
,^'
AND .^■
m <^fous iVtaUiiB iCUtttta antr $tiannatop(cia.\;;.
%,
BY JAMES WHITE,
LA-n TBTBMHABT SDBdEOK OF TBI FUST OB BOTAL DBAOOOKB.
ENTinKLT RtCONnRUCTED. WITH CONSIDERABLE ADDITIONS AND ALTERATIONS.
■BiHaimi ruK wobe Vt to ihi fuuiht >iati or tetfiinakt icieho,
BY W. C. SPOONER,
VKTKBIHABT SUBOBON,
■(lin»ABT AKOCIAT* or IHt TETKAIBAAT MEDICAL AMOCIATIOH,
AtrraoB or teeaiiiis on the lyrLUiKiA, and thi (teuctuhc, ruHciroiri, and
DIIEABEI or TBE EOOT AND LEO Or THE HOH1E,
AKD nmoB or wbite'i coxrEMniiiii or the diseaies or cattii,
iBur, awiKR, ikHD i>aa>.
LONDON:
LONOHAN, BBOWN, OREEN, AND LONOMANB ;
T. TBOa; WHITTAKXn AND CO.; BIMPKtN, MARSHALL, AKD CO.;
HOULBTOM AND STOHEHAK ; AND C. DOLMAN.
1842.
/ni
LoHnoH I
Priuwd lijr A. SporriiwooD^
Ncw-Sinii'i-Sqiuirc.
PREFACE.
SiXT£ZK editions of this work have, it is hoped, sufficiently
stamped it as a favourite of the public. In undertaking the
seventeenth, with which he has been entrusted by the proprietors,
the Editor feels that he can best carry out the wishes of the
late respected Author by endeavouring to effect what improve-
ments in it he is capable of doing, and such as the advanced
and advancing state of the science on which it treats appears
to demand.
It will be seen that the work, which has hitherto been pub-
lished in three volumes, is now embodied in one. In accom-
plishing this, consider^le alterations were necessarily required.
Much superfluous matter has been removed ; and in arranging
the work more systematically, it has been in many instances
found necessary to re-write subjects entirely, as the more con-
venient method of incorporaling the Author's ideas with the
desired improvements. Besides this, many articles altogetJier
new have been supplied, which it is hoped will add both to the
interest and value of the work.
The engravings, fifty-six in number, by Mr. Branston, are
entirely new, and most of them are on new subjects.
In eflecting these alterations and intended improvements, the
original plan has yet been preserved ; for although the work has
been much extended, it still gives a general and popular outline
of the structure of the horse, and a compendium of the diseases
to which be is liable.
In former Prefaces the Author has reviewed in some measure
the productions of our Euithors in this country, as well as on
the Continent. Veterinary works being now however too
numerous to permit us to follow out this plan to the same ex-
tent, a glance at them must suffice.
France has furnished a considerable addition to our veterinary
A 2
IV
PBETACC.
lilcraturc. Messrs. Girnrd, boUi fatliei- and son, li»ve pro-
duced works ol" con*id(Tal>l« i-mlin?ncc. ProfcMont Uigol and
Delafond liave aUi) by tin.-lr wriiings f?stabU«li(.-d their claims as
men of considerable BcientiBc and vt-tfrinary acquirement*. Tito
Dictionary of Htirin-l d'Arboviil, extending to four volumea,
posKwei great merit, and lias reached a second edition ; and
Profeasor Gvlk has lately produced a valuable work on Oaltlo
Patliology.
To llieae we may add the writings of Vatc!, Renault, Orognier,
Moirond, Dopoy, Bernard, and Bouti-y, bi-sidea two veterinary
periodical^:, which arc carried on with »0")e spirit. Professor
Gurit, of Berlin, lti» |nibti»hed some excellent plates of tlie
anatomy of llie hone and otlier animals, which, with those of
Miiller, evince much accuriicy and rt^earcli ; and Professor
Delwari, of Brusiels, lias presented the public with a useful
pathological work.
In this country, although our authors have not been quite so
prolific, ihey have not been less woriJiy »i' upprt^tion. Fint
and foremost we must notice the works of Mr. Percivall, who
some years since presented ua with three volumes of lectures^
cmbruring llie greater ]>art of ihc anatomy and physiology, and
extending itself to much of l)ie palholog)- of the horw;: and
more recently they have been followed by a work on the anatomy
of tile liorse, which for correcincss and comprehensiveness has not
been surpaesedL This work has been succeeded by two vi^umes
styled Hip|M>p<(thnl(yy, hoili of which justly hold a foremost
rank in our veterinary literature.
Mr. Bracy Clark has from time lo time presented us with
elaborate treaiisea on various Kubjects, such as the I-'oot, SItoeinp,
Worms, &c. i mill, lately, on the \'ic«s of Horses. They all
display much talent, and develo[>e cotitidprabl« learning and
ingenuity.
Mr. liiaine's work, botit on tlte Horse and th« Dog. have
gone through several editions, each of which evinrvs coiiMtlei*-
ab)e and progrMsive improvement. This f^enileman lia« re-
cently coniplelcd a work, entillttl "An Kncyclopivdia of Sport-
ing," which for its amplitude of detail and depth of rctoarcli b
well worthy the latter days of this veteran in literature.
Mr. Yountt has, under the HnixTintt'iidenoc of the Society for
the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge, presented tlie public wiih
VKBTkCt,
I three elalwrate worka, entilled Rercrally i)i« Horse, Caitir,
Sheep. These works evince an exiraordinary degree of laljour
and rccenrch. A great portion of each is devoicd [o llic iiatiinil
I hiriory of th(f aniinal on which it treats ; and the ope on shwp
contains some intereMing discoveiiei on th<- naiur<> and structure
of the different wook. Mr. Youati hoa also written an esaay on
I Ilumanitv to Animaltf whicli has been rcry generally and de-
tscrvedlj iinit«o<l. It» «rguntent« are not I>ascd oti any crude and
Utopian theories, but on sound practical ){roinid«.
Mr. Youalt is abo the ahle editor of a monthly periodica], called
"The Veterinarian," which first appeared in 18*28 under ibe
limpicesor Mr, PtTcivall. Thi* work i» k"'"*'." "'pported by
. tltc contrihiition* of veterinary surgeons in difTerent parU of the
counter' ; and ii i* not raying too much in its favour in aiserting
I that by thus collecting from so many sources, it has acquired a
I mine of valuable facts, which by diftribitting amoitgst tho pro-
rfession lioa greatly aiwittoil the progress of veterinary knowledge.
For tcvcral years pa*t a large i>pace of ihig [teriodieal has been
d«votcd to re()orting tliu proceedings of the ^^eterinary Medical
, Association, an inaiiiution arising out of the ashes of a former
isodety, and consisting of practitioners and students wlio hold
[weekly meetings at the Veterinary College during the session,
at n hich meetings many escellent essays have been read, and
followed by valuable discussions. Tl»e association is composed
1 of four classes, viz., members, fellows, honorary fellows, and hn-
jiornry iu-'!ocinte«. Mr. Sewell is the patron, Mr. C Spiioner
jtltc pre«idcn1t and Mr. Morton tlie secretary of this institution ;
[irhich it is Iwped will continue to flourish, as it is calculated to
greatly the acquisition and communicatign of scicntilic and
[practical knowledge. The council have lately revived to pub-
I Iish their own proceedings quarterly.
Mr. James Turner has coltecled together and published his
valuable papers on tlic Navicular Disease, the merits belonging
to the discovery of which is justly due to him. He has also
Linore recently published a Register of Kx]KTimenla on the
TJalurc of llie Blood-vessels, which evinces much originality, and
in some degree militates against the opinions of physiologi«ls.
Mr. Morton, ProfcsiorofCliemislry at the Veterinary College,
has published a Mantial of niarniacy and a Toxicological Chart.
[Each exhibits great excellency, and places the accomplished
A 3
*
writer high amongtt our lint of iuiihon, nnd an n d'lliKoiu inciiiircr
afier irulli. To the former work iliis vultinie stundtt indebted.
Mr. Stuart, of Glasgow, lias publislied a iiseful work on tla-
SoimdiMS)! of Horsc«; and more lately a larger one on Slubl<^
Economy. 'V\w hitter has oblniiied a Inrge share of public
fnrour, and conlaiiu much useful mid practical inlormation.
Tfw Editor of this work has wriiieii two othere ; one on th<'
InlluensAi <in(l the other on the Structure, FunclioiiK, and
llinraiHr* of tli« Fool and I-cg of tlie Horse. With rt-gard to
their claiini he hegs to refer to the opinions of the various ve-
lerinarj", medical, and sporting reviewers by whom the works
have bi-en notice<l.
Mr. Vineti ttaa written a irMlise on the subject of Olanden, in
whicli he diEplaye some novel ideas, and in which tie strongly
advocates the exhibition of ciuitharidvs.
Mr. Darvill hua published a w<frk on llie Itaco Hor»s which
exhibits much practical knowledge, and eumniuntcaics useful
information.
There arc a few other minor authors, some of whom are
justly entitled to merit; and there aiv otlicrt whose works we
could not notice without cxpresiing censure.
It remains but to add iliat Kince llie la«l edition of this work
was publisbc^l, the ruthless <i<^lroyer. Death, hath summoned away
Mr. Coleman, who for nearly half n century had held the ofGoe
of Bcnior Professor at llie Veterinary ColN-ge. In hi» earlier career
be was a diligent inquirer after truth, and a nealoiis friend of
veterinary science. His manlte has fallen on Prrtfesscr Scwell,
so uiany years ossocialed with him, whilst the »ul>-profesK>rship
is deservedly bestowed on Mr. C Spooncr, and Mr. Morton hu
more recently been appointed Profwsor of Chemistry. From the
fcxleitsivo experience and intuitive knowkilj^e of the firet gen-
tleman, the talents and scientifie acquirements of tlic second,
and the active and xealous genius of the third, much tt expis;te<l
towards the future progixiM of veterinary scienoe, and much
will undoubtedly be obtained.
Hvutbamfilun, December tUh, l&tl.
PREFACE
TO THE THIRTEENTH EDITION.
About two years only have elapsed since the twelfth edition of
this small volume was published: such kind encouragement
cannot fail of increasing the author's ardour and industry in the
cultivation of his profession ; and he trusts, by continued and
zealous attention to veterinary practice, to make still further
improvements beyond those he has now to offer. In the last
edition, I gave some account of veterinary writers, especially
those of the French nation. 1 have now to pay some tribute of
respect to the memory of those of our own country, who have
written many works of great utility, though not what are consi-
dered scientific performances ; as well as a short account of the
works of living veterinary authors.
The earliest English writer on Farriery we have an account
0^ ia Mascal, who lived in the reign of Edward the Sixth. He
published a treatise on Farriery, which was greatly esteemed,
and passed through several editions. At the same time lived
Martin Clifford, who also wrote a treatise on Farriery ; but it
was not considered of any value, and passed through two
editions only. Next to him appeared Captain Burdon, of the
Dragoons, who published a very small treatise on Farriery,
which was universally read and esteemed in the reign of Queen
Elizabeth. This small work was republished, with notes, by
Dr. Bracken. Three years after appeared Gervase Markham,
the most renowned of ancient farriers. He published a work
under the name of" Markham's Masterpiece," in the year 1666 ;
it passed through twenty-five editions, the last of which appeared
in 1729. He was in practice more than sixty years. In the
year 1740, De Grey published his "Compilation on Farriery,"
which was not much esteemed. Snape, farrier to King Charles
the Second, published the 6r8t English treatise on the An.itomy
of the Horse; but it was taken in great measure from Ruini,
an old Italian author of great merit. In the year 1770, Sir
William Hope published a translation of Solleysel's work, which
was much read and esteemed. In the reign of King George
the First, Dr. Layard published an Account of a dreadful Epi-
A 4
Till
rHEFACE TO THB THIRTEESTH EDITION.
demic which raged amonc Csttle. Other piiblicaiiotn of a
rftimilar nature appeared about the same time. In ilie year
' 1750, appeared the best book on I'arriery that bad ever been
written, by William Gibson, a surgeon. It went through many
ediiiom, and is sliU considered vuhiable. Alwut the same time
Dr. Bracken publiitlit.-d two volume* on Tarriery, which n-ero
sreally etteemed, nnd are ttill reiul. DnrtletiV "Giiitletnan's
f Complete Farrier" next jippearfd. He published tiUo a Veieri-
1 nary Pharniacopt»-ia. The Ibiuier was in great meuaiin- un
abridgment of" (iil)son. It contained, however, a new metliod
of nicking, and a description of Lalbsse's supposed cure for the
glanders. Osmer next published a treatise on Lameness, con-
taining many new and useful observations ; also, a " Description
and liecommendatiou of Lafossc's Half- Moon Shoe" ^ a stioe
thtil I do not consider proper on any occasion whatever ; be-
ruiMC, with xueli ii vlicjc, [lie Ik-vIm are comlanity wearing, while
the toe is growing, wliioli muat be » gn-iit injury to tlic Hcxor
tendon, or ib appendages, and caum- the frog 10 n-ceive moro
pressure than it was designed for. He after wni-d.t wrote a book
on an epidemic disease that prevailed, which contained iminy
useful observations. In tlie year 1780, Mr. James Clark, of
Edinburgh, published a small work " on the Pnevention of
Disease by Exercise, Feeding, Bleeding, &C," This is an excel-
lent work, and may Ijc still n-ad with itdvantage by veterinary
sdident.*. I^itl Pembroke, about this lime, published a wofK
on Mursem^inihip, which contained many sensible observation*
nn tile dixentcs of horses and on shoeing. His lordship was
Colonel of the VinU or Koyal Dragoons, and had ihe horses of
liis regiment titovti according; to a plan of hi^ own. This plan
wa* continual while 1 wii» in the reginicnt, and is, I believe,
xtill in use. This shoe is ttiat which I now ri^conimeiid for good
feet About die year 1789. Mr. Taplin's "Stable Dirx-clory"
appeared : a book that was much reau, and passed tlirough many
edition* in a few yvan. A «uppler)ientary volume was afiei^
wanls published, and a small painpblel, named, not very justly,
" Multum in Parvo,"
In the year 1702, the Vtlerinary College was eslablished, and
hL Sainibe), a French veterinarian, was appointed Profe««or.
I^I« died about a year after. Saiiitbel was the person who disco-
vered that glanders may be conimuniculed thrnu}(li ttie medium
of tlie stomach. A few years after Ins iWth, a quarto volume
a|)]>esred on veterinary subjects with hU name to it, but it con-
tained nothing of importance. The Piofessorsliip of the Ojllege
was aAerwardi liUed by Mr.Coleman and Mr. Mon-crofi, jointly;
but the latter soon gave it up for a more lucrative situation, a* •
firivatc practitioner in Oxford .Stix-el, in which be acquired the
ligheet reputation. In 1807, he was Induced (o go out lo India,
rnKFACK TO TIIK TIICRTRCKTIC rOITlOK.
IX
tOnmrinieiKi lliobreerlirtfrttud of ilio Vam India Com[»iiy. Hft
pnbllshed k smitll l>ut very ujieful (mnk on Sho<>iti);. I sltoult)
nave notic^belbre a small l>ouk bv Mr. I'nuser, a surgeon, on
StratigleR uid Fever, in I78i6. Mr. Proaser conlt'iids l)iat ilie
■irangles could be. with certainty and advantage, communicated
tocoltsby inoculation. In ITOG.aquarlo volume appearedoii the
Economy of the Horse's Foot and Shoeing, by ilr. Freeman, a
gentleman much celebrated for his knowledgn of horsemanEliip,
on which hi> afterwards publislMxl a large treatise. Tlie former
work contains some good platen of tlic difTcrent parts of the
horse's foot. Abonl tlw year 1800, Mr. Colomim piiblishod hi*
splendid work on llic Siriictiiro, F-conomy, and l)iM-»«rs of the
Horse's Foot, and Slioeing. 'Ilii* work contnint-d many bcnti-
tiful and accurate plntt^ of the hoiw's foot- 'rh<:r»- afterwards
appoared otie volume of Voierinarv l'raii«acti»n», and a pnin-
phiet, dtwcribing an artificial frog, by the lame author. Aliout
this time two octavo volumes were publislted, entitled, " A Philo-
Mphical Treatise on >Iorses," by Mr. John Lawrence. The first
volume merits particular notice: it contained a forcible appeul
to the feeling of the public in support of (ho rights vf korua^
and ought to be read by all horse proprietors, "the other con-
tained much useful practical information; but, as Mr. Lawrence
was not a regular student of the veterinarv profession, it of
course contained some errors, and is vsluahte chiefly as a com-
pilation. In the year 18(li, Mr. Iticluird Lawrence publislied a
quarto volume on some of the (liwuR-s of ilic horse, with some
useful and accurate plates. This is a work of considerable
merit, and has been »inc« piiblislKtl in one octavo volume. Mr.
Blaine's work fint appeartil in IH02 atvd I6CK), in two vohinu-s
octavo. It has sino; iH-c-n publiilted, however, in one octavo
volumo. It is the only regular syMem of veterinary medicine
tliat has been attempte<l in this countrv ; and, notwithstanding
the severe remark of Frofesaor Girarcl and M. (jauze on it, 1
think the work much more valuable than that of tlie latter
author, although his large quarto contains more than a hundred
Elale« : and of <?<iual value to M. Girard's works, not excepting
is "TraitOdu ricd." About this time appeared a book by
Downing, and anoltK-r by Tophain, on ihe Diseases of Cattle.
Ciater's *' Kvery Man his own Farrier" had Ix-en published some
years before ; and about thi* jxTiod a])peare<l his vuhmic '^ on the
Disetiaos of Caltlv." A (guarto bonk on Cattle Medicine was
publi»hed soon after by Mr. Skerrvlt, which contained some
good rcpreaen tat tons of the calf in ulero, and Rome useful ob-
servations on ihesuhjeet. Itut one of the best books thai have
ever upiteared on caitle medicine was by Mr. John Lawrence.
'Itie great merit of ttii? work consists in pointing out the pro-
priety of attending to preventive measures, and iltc absurdity of
I'lttirAf.'!: to THE TIIIIITKKKIU bUlTIUK.
1
iiic-iirriiift tbu uscIvsh cx|><Mt)>i> of inert or (wiaoiiouti divticlii-s,
itnd orntU'm[>llrig lo curv inciiniblt- diM-nsr*. In lW6 u <)iiui-to
vuliiint-, b^ Mr. I'Vcoti, iipiM-urcd, wliicti cuixniiKsl iiutliiii);
vAluoblr. h liu niiKv n))|H-nr<'(l in an i[ii|in)v<'i) >inu- in oir-
lar({« Of lAvo voliiiiK'. Alwut tlit- yL>er 11^04, Mr. Hiiiiii^, ofttM
SAtii Urii;{ooiui, now of tlie Itoyiils (mbliklibd lii« " Vctvrlnsry
Pallifllo^';" and Mr. Denny, of iii<: lOth Dragoons, I liit "Trvtw
(i*« on tlic Diseuen of ilorsre ;" both iininll octavot, an<l of von-
EMlcmble merit. In 180Ji a large ({iinrio dictionary appcan-d*
by Thoma* Boardman, of tUc '.id Dra^^oons. This book con-
l«im'<l Bomp good plates reduc4>d from Stubbe, and is altogcllter
n valuable compilation. In 160!), Mr. Gntcy Clark publi&bed
Ilia "DiMcrtation on tbc Foot of lite Horae. Ttiis i» the best
work on itw inhjrct that hoit iippcart-d in any language. He
Unh vincf {iiiiiltHht'd anoilifr work, iMincd " 8tvrfo{>l*^" of great
merit; and aTrentlM! on Colts; nltto, uii Kviay on the FU(uk-nt
Colir, Hhowtng tliat it dqx'ndti on itidigc-stion. About two yean
aft», Mr. Ouodwint vilerinary aurj^eon to (be king, published an
octavo volume on Stioeiiigt and the various metltods practised
by f(irei]jn nations. He recommends an improvenieiit on the
I*n-nch mode of diooing, which, he says, has been found ex-
tri-mi'iy tist-ful. As the book will, no doubt, be gcnt-rally read,
tio furthvr description is neci-ssary.
In fuldilion lo iIm' Frvncli v<.-(erinury works noticed in the
preface In ihu iwclfth MHtion, llic following Imve »iiicc ap-
[warcd : —
I. Trailemcnl pour touic Especc do Maladii-s do Owvaux.
l*ar M. Desmari'.
•J. Kxtruit d'Abr<!'K(: dc MMieinc Vclerinain: Pratique, public
en llalicn, IrtlO. Tar .1. 1*. Volni.
•*l. Tableau Indicniirdcs MaludieK du C)ieval,et des Kem^des
iiu'oti pc>ut nppliquer selon les Mnux el Accident. '2 feuiik-s,
lolio.
4. I'alliologie Wierittaire. Par M. Dupuy.
M. .Inute'* prointied urork in live octavo volumes has not yel
iippeaRtl.
In coticUiding thin prelaee, I lliink it necessary lo observe
liial, in iIh- pn-si^nt edition, 1 have not given many nx:eipi>t (i»r
it»G4lirino« ; l»ut ihi-w have been so abundantly iiiipplini in tlw
latt edition of the second volume, or Materia Mttlica, that 1
ihouglit it brttcr lo let lliem give place in tlris volume to wluil 1
cuntldvred iiwre uiefitl matter.
PREFACE
TO THE TWELFTH EDITION.
I
RABi.v iweiily yttrt h«v<> plapttod siiipc ilii.t work was firal
iHiUttslKtl, uiirl uaritlft that time elc-veii voiy Uu'gi- iniprcMioiiv
Mve been sold. So Givourable a reception could iioi fitil of
stimulating the author to continued and increased exertions Tor
the improvetnenl of veterinary science^nnd leading Itim to con-
sider it as a duly he owes ilie public lo comntunicatCi when
opportunities ofTered, any UM-rul discoveries that may come lo
his knowledge, whether the result of his own experience or that
or ullters, 'Flic present edition is called for ut a favoiiralile
lime, as the ready intercourse we rmw have with the Continent
enables him to give a slwrt account of the state of the veterinary
art ill foreign oountnee, particularly in France, where it at-
tracted the notice of ttcienlific nwii, and where veterinary (schools
were cstabliitbrdat an earlier perioil than in any oilier country.
Bonrgelat, tlie fimt din-clor, and the principal projector of tlic
French vcltriiiary m-IhwU, iia» been jw*lly regard<-d as tilt*
founder of the veterinary art, being tlie first who placed in a
clear point of view the indiijK usable necessity of anatomical and
physiological knowledge to the veterinary pntctitioner. Several
works were published liy Bmirgclat on veterinary subjects, which
are still held in considerable c-ilim.ition : the principal are, — " A
Treatise on ihe Anatomy of Domestic Animals;" " A Itational
Materia Mcdica ; " "A Treatise on the Exterior Conformation
of ll>e Horse ; '' " Essays on the 'Hieory and Practice of Shoeing
aiidon Bandages,'' &c. " Bourgelai's .-\natomy" appeared lirel in
1760, and lias passci) through several editions. It was trans-
lated into German, Italian, and .SpiniiHti. 'I'hough Itunrgelat
wiw the first lo place the veterinnry art on a proper fi)undiiti«n,
tome attempts wen- made, at a nmch earlier |>erio<l, lo dlflii^t; a
knowledge of veterinary annlouiy, the principal of which was by
Uuini, an Italian. Thi» work was publiiihed at Venice in I59(^
and entiilcdi " Anatomiadel (.'avallo: Inlennitil, et snoi Uimedi :
dal Sigiior Carlo Ruini, Senator liulngneite." It treats of the
aiiaimnyof llie tiorsc nH well a-i of diieiues. Tbie book seenis lo
have been (he groun<lwutk of niatiy oltM>ni that were published
i
VKBFACS TO THE TWELITH EDITION,
at liilTcrrtit periocts afterwards, particularly the wiatomival part
and (lie pliiteti w hich nppear to havt' been almost liierally cupk-d
I»y hII of tbeoi. Vitel, in his " Analvsis of Veterinary Works,"
ill fipeakin^ of Sally^l's, wliicli wax ptibli^^hed in IliSS, nys,
" In tlie Ifiili century, many volcriiiary books appeared, but
Sollyst'l's n'ork lias caused ttuin to be forgotten ; nor bave wo
reason to refnvt ibcir \os», n» lliey coniHin<>fi only a very imper-
fect description of tltv Mruciiire of t)i« horx^." 1 1 appears, how-
ever, ilml Sollyxd'* cclebrali'd work is in grt-at ineiuure copiMl
from tbiit nf Kuiiii. " Sitape'i Anatomy of tl>e Hor«'," and Ute
little that Oib»»n wroie on tbai aubjt^^i, seem tu bave been
drawn from tlie miih; Hource. One dilference is observable in
the plate«; ibow of Kuini being engraved on wood, and his
imitator's on copper. La Fosse waa contemporary with I3our>,
|i(flut, and comiininicated several memoirs on veterinary subject*
to llie Uoyal Academy. Ill ITHtt I-» Fosse's son publidlii-d his
'* Farrier's Guide," which tn-nt», nlco, ofllie uiiatomy of tbe lionr ;
and in 177'i, his CnurK d'Hi|ipiatr!(iuc app<-ar»), a splendid
folio, containing Mxty-livc hii^hly fmislK-d pUtfM, illustrative of
the anatomy of the liorte. In 1775, a Dictionary of Farriery
waa published by the same author, in 4 vol^ t^vo. This work
contains much useful inlornintion. In 1771 Vitet's " Vete-
riitarj' Medieiiif" appeared, in !) vols 8vo. Tbi* work treats
of th<- sirticiurc of the ox as well aa the horse. After iIn*
revolution, the art seems to have made but little progre.-Kf. In
1797, ft useful pamphlet on the glanders appcai'cd, the joint
production of MM. Chabert and Hazard. This book was
printed and dintrtbuted by order of the government, in conse-
Xieiice of th<r gri'iit nunitier of horses that had been lost, and
V coniagioux nntuir of llie disease. It does not contain, how-
ever, any information that would be new to the English render.
AlMHt ihe same lime, M. Chabert publislKil " A Description of
the Digestive Organs of Kuininatiiig Animals," and soon afier
there appeared " A Manual of ttn- Veterinary Art," by La Fosse,
son of the author before noticr<(, in one I'imo. volume. This
practical compi-ndlum of the veterinary art «vms to luive been
much estcem<tl, as a third nliiion wii» publi*hed in 1W)3. From
this work, as well as fnmi othem of a m(»n- recent date, it
appears tluit the practice of veterinary iitedieine lum not mode
much progress in France since tl>e time of I3ourgeIat. In 181 1
nn aeoount was published of some successful exjieriments on the
.^valment of glanders and laKy. by M. Collaine, I'rufeMor of
Koyal Veterinary School of Milan. The suciressful retnedy
in tliese experimeiita was sulphur, jfiven in very large dotes,
beginning, however, with four ouim-s, and gradually increasing
the dose until it caused purging and violent colic. It was iben
discontinued until these symptoms c«-ase(l. On re)>esting il
afleiwurds il was found (hat much larger (lo»>s eould be given
I
PBRVACE TO THE TnrRl.mi EniTlOH.
Stll
without inconvenience. In some cases it'wsB given to the extent
of two pounds in the course of the <1rVi made inlo an electuary
will) honey. It is stated that a eon«idrrablc number of honet
were tlius cured. licsiiles giving the siilpUur, about two quarts
of blood were taken off every third or funrllt day during the
treatment. The following statement is annexed to ihv pam-
phlet ! —
" Tbe vclcriiiary surgeon ntiiichcd (o iIk- inii>crinl bre*-<iing
stud of Borculo in Holland hiu pructiMrd M. OiHiiine'n mode of
ireatnR-nt, and afier two months' triitl, ittirty glanderetl hone*
were perfectly cured, ten arc in a state of couvaIc»cence, and
twenty have died during the treatment." Notwilbstandiiig tlu-
sted efficacy of this mode of irealment, it appears from a
but publication on glanders, by M. DiipnVi that it has been
fairly tried at (l>e Veterinarv School at Alfori, and has not in a
single instance succeeded. M. Dupuy's work appeared in lSI7t
in one vglume Svo., and treats of glamU-nt ns n tubercular or
tuberculous aflection, Iwving for it* title, "Del" Affection Tuber-
culeusc, vulgairement appellee Morve (glanden), Fuhnonie
(consumption, orphtliists), Oourmt- (Mranglis), Fauaae Oourme
(spurious or battwxl strangles), Farcin (farcy)." Some obsen,--
uttonv oil this work will h<' found in llie Appendix, iindir the
h^'ad Olander*. The most valuable work that lias appeurcd in
France siiKe llie Revolution is A 'I'reatise on the Anatomy of
Domt^ttc Animals, by Professor Girard, IS07, two volumes 8vo,
In 1813, tliere a])peared A Treatise on the Feet, &C., by the
same author, in one volume, Bvo., with six plates illustrative of
the aniilomy of the foot, not only of the hone, but of the oiber
domestic animals, and poultry: ittis, also, \* a. work of cousidrl^
•ble tiieriL In 1K17, tlve first part of a tJieoretical and prnc*
f,^eal treatise on the horse's foot, and on shoeing, was publislied,
under the title of" CouraTJi^oriqneet Pratique de Mar^lialerie
Veterinaire, par F. Jau-te." This work was conipleled in 1818,
and forms one large 4to volume, with no less than 110 plates.
M. Jauxv announces another work us about to be published in
five volumes Hvo., with uumeron* pliiies. This work is said to
treat of ilie internal and external pathology of the larger do-
tnestjc animals, the velerinaiy Materia Mediea, and the vot^
rinary jurisprudence. " Every article in this treatise," the
author says, " will be described with particnlar order and pre-
eisioD, and nothint/ aiptrfiuoui will be found in it." If we may
judge from tlie work already publixliod, and the number of
volumes announced, it seems protmble timt iIk- readers of the
work will be of a different opinion. The iniroductiun to his
" Coure dc Marik^halerie " consists of an enumeration and sliort
devcriptinn of the works titat have nppeared from the earliest
times on the art of shoeing; and among these, the ingenious
and valuable works of Mr. Bi'uey Clark made a conspicuous
I'llKVACR TU rnit TWCLrrH UDITtOK.
1
daan, Uit appL-or lo Iw brought furwArtI im-n-ly im k lulijeet (or
rniicMit. " ^lr. Cliirk," nvs tlie author, " i«k« great pains to
prove that lie luu clUorcnHl (liui tlic hoof » elastic, a circiim-
aVutcv thai )mu tx>rn known fur iiioiv tliaii tuo liiiiidrrd vcars;
■ml iliat »horing it jiroiluctive of injury <o the fi^i, <vliich was
known even bvfori! ii wai oenerally practised. Wild horaca, as
wi-ll u tlie urixieT part of thoae employed in a^iculiure and
eomtnercp^ in I'ertia, Ethiopia, Tartary, Japan, Sec, are ntrvcr
klNinll tinw IB !l, tlivn, Ihai shot-ini; is (o gonrrully pracliM-d in
tlurofM- ? 'llto aniwiT i«, ilmt kliw-s mv nbMilutHy nvci^isari-, in
contniurncc »f tin- hi-avy himicns llit-y hnvc lo carry, th*^ hard
Htony rooda ilK-y nrv uhligiHl lo tnive) uii, and itiv ncce^ty
iht-y nn? under of exerting, widi mi iitlli- ov»Milion, \bv whole of
ilirir i»ow»T," &c. " 'l'li^«* coii«idt?riitioti3 are .lufEc-icnt to
prove that ■hoetiui i* ImiK injurious and necetiarvi and ohouM
iirn-tt tliL' ]Ntt« of iho&e niouern writers who are daily claiming
n« disooverics what Itave been known for four hundred years,
Mr, Clark hn« certninly taken pains to prove tltnt shoes, ol what-
I'YVt form thev may br, ara always injurious, ami that howi^via-
irarefully the hoof* are |>nrcd and olherwiite trcalcd, as long as
infl«-xil>le iron »liOP« arc nailed to them, (lie feet arc constantly
in a progreuive alato towards tliseaM-. If lliia be n-iillv iho
MM'. — ifuhoeing is invariably so injudicious, — Mr. Cluri: has
an indi>|iuiiiblc claim lu the discovery.
I eaiiitot (ind any |>«ssage in Mr. Clark's work to jn^lily our
atilhor'N asserlioi), that he has taken great pains {fait tout *t*
^otU) lo prove that Ik ic tlic discoverer of llie elasticity of lii«
hoof. He sa^'s, " I iiave detected some undiscovered iioria in
tlic hoof, aiifl eome circumstances in tlte plan of tta structure,
before unknown, and espcciallv pointed out (nr ubfcrvatioi) its
ein&lic properties." Thi« sun-ly ninnot Im- considered as laying
claim to iiuch a diwiivcry. One of the circinnManee« or \u\r\s
ofihe Itouf which Mr. Clark claims nit a disooven* i» ilmt which
he calU the aminari/ frotj liand. " 'ni'«," Bay* M. Jauze '* has
been ilcacribed by lionrgelat, under the name of Bourrfirt ^raif
KUJt," noiirgelat* in his Essay on Shoeing, says, " When the
fool in taken out of its horny box (tlte hool), the fird thing thai
Htrike* us is MN bourrtittt which fonns the sup4-rior part uf it."
This name !» evidently npplied by Itourgebil In llutt part which
Mr. Coleman Itos naiiK-d ivrcatary lii/ameut. In s[>eaking of tlw
li'iaf, Boargclat wyK, " the thicktiesa of this horny Iwx is not
(lie same through ita wliole extent; it is most consideriiblu in
front, and diminishes gradually towards the Ihi-U ; it it much
Uiinner at the upper pari, or coronet, ihuii h(.')ow, and iho
ititide ([uarter is weaker iIiati the outside : the thickness of tht:se,
n» well as the fore part, iucreaning toward* the liolloni. On
examining tlie iomT surface oi the Atw/J we find it extremely
ntVACK TO THR TWSI.FI'II KDtTIOK.
XV
I in iu iipjH-i' guirt, am) })ixr!cntitifr n M>rt of cireulur grfmve
writ tie buniti)." Tliin bluiitk-r liiM lH><'n nuiict^'il by tin
nniiluor of Mr. Chirk's wurk, und M. Jauu^ attempts to pass it
r fu nn iTror of tlio press ; for iii the thirtl part of iliin work,
vliich WHS pub1i!<h(!fl aoroe lime alW th« (in>t, tlterv l* » lUt of
rrors, in wliicli llie woi'd eoriU is subitituletl (or ymiatux.
Ilierc is also a reply to some observations on M. Jauze'^ book,
by M. Iliizard; but it is ei'id<>nt from ttic above quotation from
|{ourp:laI, that tbo coronary froK baixl of Mr. Clark was not
'^Doliccd by that crotncnt vrierimiriiui, nor is llicrc anv descrip-
tion of il in his olhci* works, or in the " Traits dn IVtf" of Pr»-
l«saor Giranl. " Mr. Clark,'* Ire saw, •* has trrri-d in many
aihiT passaf^ (danH une infinity." Page 2d., lino )., Iw mys,
*' In thv foot of the ox there is neillier pad nor cushion to
I'ditniniKh (he reaction of the gmund. {li tt'y n iti maleUu lu
YfKwm /xMcr paUier Us readiotu ilu tal.)" He is in error alao
when he slates tliat the camel and die elephant liave a cartila-
linous pad on llie under part of tlicir feet. Now, in Mr.
Clark's work, p. 119., the rradt-r will fnid the matter thus stated:
f— " Ind4<c<l, we diK-ovcr nuT«l th-urly, on inve^li^tion, lliat to
H'vcry animal is ^iven a stuire of elastic yit-ldin;; to llie foot, in
order to destroy all jar and rvsictaiKo, icciprocally lo the parts
of tl>c loot Rs to tlio body, an*) n clunge of form lakes place in
' iIk> loot according to tlu.^ wrigltt or c-xertion brought upon it.
ijn the tiepkanl, mrtllayinotit cutUionM, for ihU purpose, are «wt
Jttpottd tmdiT tbf foot, and in the camtl Moag pail* ; tn Ike 4ur
ihU wm-rrtitfiim-'! to llu laail i* rffeclnd hy a Alep divhitni of tltr.
\ji»>t In the felli/ci jnhtt, Ikn* makin(f of it tttfo membfrs, Ihfrtby
|.yi'eni^ a jUnhility that miM-vn the tame end. In the liorse, a
single pad is Been, for of such nature is the frog; and this yield-
ing property in the foot of him and his tribe, or family, is lose,
' ]>erliaps, than any other faintly of iiuaitrupedN, on account, it
would appear, of the difficult combination of pro|»crtit:4 found
with liini, vie, an cxtraordiniiry dcfjn-*; of »]H'ecl with a large or
iKnvy body, which, lo he inipilled with cllcct, n-qnirL-d part*
tfa&l alwuld not be loo yiclthng, by which the impulse had been
diminished, and hence it is that this property has been neurly
overlooked, and the foot treated by the amitlts as though this
■lecfssary provision and property hul in liim no existence more
ihnn in n man of wood of the same figure." It appe<ired ne-
^ccsitary to iraivMrribe the tvliokt of the i)asj-ig<- from Mi, Clark's
work, tltat the n-adi-r may form a just estiinatu of M. Juuxe's
criticism.
Mr. Clark is accused of anoltH?r error in saying that " iIk
thickness of the wall of the lioof diminislies from the front to tlte
pari." 'flvere may be some few exceptions to this rule,
:l)u truth of tlic slatcment vrilli respect to tlte fore feet ia
well knowu to those who arc acquainted wtili titc structure of
the Toot, atid ihe hoof is so cleacrilH>d by Buiirgvlat in the above
qiioiution.
The reatter will not, tt is honed, think it wliolly uninteresting,
if a brief accotinl Ik- aikled oftW pmcnt «tRte of the veterinary
schools in Frarw-e and Germiiny ; <lniwii from a re()orl made by
Mr. Sewcll,as»i»liintiiroliyaior of the Wteriiiary College, London,
lo ih« governor* of that establithineiit. Mi-. Sewell fint visited
llic Veterinary School at Lyons, which wa^ established Janunry
Isl, 1~6'J. " The museum," he says, " contains many jm'{>an^
tioni' of great utility and novellv ; particularly subjects nf ilie full
si/e, diitpluving llie n)u§cles and blood vessels and ihe wfiole of the
nervous »ysien) with the bi'ain, entirely separate from the other
part*, «nd well preserved : slioes of eveiy description and from
varions countries, arc also shown. The infirmary stables are
not extensive, but |iaved and drained in the ordinary way, and
ventilated by the windows only : there arc iippropriaie plmccs
for ihc oilier <lomti>tie animals. The ibrge i* commodious, nnd-J
well sda|)t<Hl for shoeing horses, and instnictiiig the pupils in
the arl of making and putting on shoes; all which i.-< xu|>eriit-
icnded by a director of that particular branch of the art. A
botanical garden is allached to (ho school, and lectures are given
on botany and chemistry in rooms adjoining a laboratory. The
theatre of anatomy is capable of containing about one tiundred
pupils; where lectures are delivered on veterinary aimtomy,
surgery, and diseases; and a convenient dissecting room is con-
tiguous to tl>e theatre, liehind the building are a j'ard and
paddock, into which sick or lame horse* are occasionally turned."*
The present director is M. Kre<lin, who furnisVxl Mr. Sewell
with letters of intro<luction to M. Hiixanl, intjK'ctor of tlic
French veterinnry sctiools, with which be procw-ded to Parb.
He wfw neconipanied by M, Iliiicanl's son to the Veterinary
School at Alibrt, about (our miles from Paris, which wtt« opened
in 176C, and is now the principal school in France. This is
much more complete than the school at Lyons: tlm^e largo
rooms arc occupied by the museum and an extensive colk-ction
of veterinary wurk*. There is « powerful electrical apparali
for medical pur|Mj»e8. Lectures on agriculture, rural economy,^
* AccDTilinx to a report, node to (he National Conrcnlion by Mi-Mni.
Giltirrl Dili! Iluittnl, in 1795i iheteCerimiry tchopl nt Lj'ons wni in ii >cry UiJ
(tixt«, mill so h1iu«I« (in thr/ixiciu^g 4c la GioltaiifTf), ri lo lie sometiinn in-
undated by Ibc nhnne. In coiiiD<iuciice of ihoir ropmcntation, it wan r^ i
moved to n wot oppoutc lo thu city near the rood IcadinK to Pari*. Daringi
Ihe *K^ and bombariliiicnt of tyon*, the ttudants were i)Mpen«<d b.v (ho
bombt or *IiclU iImi wcrn thcouii tnio ihc hnuw and itablp* i bul M. Bii'ijin,
the (fireclor, conuiToi to iccure llie prepmdon*. &c. lliot wctc in the iiiu*
wiim. nnJ imi UiMnoft'toahouie hejxiwtsted at smnediitanccfiyiml.yanii,
where bu culkxUil the siodenls Mid contianed hia iustraciions.
PREFACE TO THE TWELrrH EDITION. XVII
and medical juriBprudence are delivered at this school, in ad-
dition to those given at Lyons. Stallions are kept at the ex-
pense of government, and sent annually into the provinces to
improve the breed of horses ; asues are also sent far tlie purpose
of producing mules, which are much used in some of the pro-
vinces. The infirmaries for horses and the otiier domestic
animals are more extensive, and better arranged than those at
Lyons; and the forge affords more convenience for giving in-
structions in shoeing : there is also a portable forge, which may
be removed to any part of the stables where its use is required.
A 6eld of about six acres is set apart for agricultural expe-
riments. The royal stables at Paris are well constructed build-
ings — well paved, drained, and ventilated : the horses do not
stand on litter during the day. They appear capable of con-
taining about two hundred horses. An infirmary and forge are
attached to the stables. All the royal siud, as well as the
cavalry horses, are shoed upon the plan established by the veteri-
nary schools, under the superinten dance of a resident veterinary
sui^eon.
The following year Mr. Sewell visited the veterinary schools
in Germany; and, on his return, made a report of^ his ob-
servations to the governors of the London Veterinary College,
of which the following -is an extract : — Tlie Veterinary School
at Vienna is inferior to that at Alfort; but it affords a greater
scope for practice, the stables and other accommudaiiuns being
calculated for receiving a considerable number of patients; all
of them were then occupied, which afforded Mr. Sewell an op-
portunity of seeing some diseases peculiar to the season which
was very hot and dry ; the principal of these were lameness,
called fever in the feet, and lethargic attacks. The lameness
was treated as it is in this country, with the addition of turning
the patient into a paddock, where the grass was high, kept
watered, and well shaded with trees. The horses with lethar^
were also kept in the paddock under the trees, and their heads
were often placed under a shower bath. From the number of
those that were in a convalescent state, Mr. Sewell concludes that
the treatment was successful ; though he says, it does not accord
with the theory or treatment of the disease taught in this coun-
try. They consider the lethargic symptoms as dependant on
some disorder of the digestive organs and liver, and treat It
accordingly. The pupils are taught shoeing practically at the
forge. The shoes are different from our own acid those of
France.* The stables are not of the first order, but roomy and
■ According to M. Jauze, " the Oerman shoes are, of all othera, the most
injurious for horses that have sound feet. There are three lurge crninpoiia
(caulking) ; one at the toe and at each hee), which make the shoe very he.tvy.
Mid takes off the aplomb of the foot."
a
XVIM
rnRFAce to tub rwELrra editiok.
floorot] wiiii wood) a common )>racticc in Uerfuaiiv. 'I1ie oiltoS
ncconiinodutioiis are v^ry good; sucli as box slaJliii and {ilacM
fur oilier doin«stic aniinaU. Tlie stsblcs have do other means
or venlilalioii than by ihe winduwe, some of whicli oi>en abore
the horses: the plan ol' draining is very ^od, and tlio litter is
f removed during the- day iinl(->» reqiun'd Tor pinticnlnr ewes.
I The piiarmiiry (plsco wliero nH-diciiie* are prt'iMU'd and dis-
pMiKd), and oiIkt olHcoit are well arranged, 'j'lie bnildings arc
eonttrucied of wood, and are considerably <lilapidau-d ; hut it is
oxpeclvd that the whole will be soon rebuilt. An old herma-
phrodite hor^ is shown here in which the male form seems lo
predominale ; of nhichi Mr. Si-wdl considers it a malfoimation.
The im|)eriai stable is a fine spacious building, tlooied with
wood, well di-ained, and vcniiluic-d, and cupabiu of accommo-
dating several hundred horstts; an infinnary is attached (o it;
also a fargcinnd s good con tilviuico for MujH'iidiiig atui H-curing
restive hortn, for tihoeing, or oilier operations. The horses, as
woU a.t tho«e of cavalry, are shoed upon (he school plan, i'rincc
('Jiui'lfs'ti si^iblos are exceedingly good os a model ou a tmiali
•Cide ; the floor is peculiar, being nijulc of wooden piles or piecn,
cut out of a roundid figure, like large paving stones ; iliey are
well drained and ventilated.
Ai Prague and Dresden, Mr. Scwell found nothing very in-
teresting except the royal stable* at thi> latter place; in ihv
I coach horse stable, a covered stream of witter ]>asseG down the
^cejili-c, which kw]>« it alwavit clean and n^weet. 'lliey are well
vrnillaterl, lofiy, light, and npiiciuiis, and floored wiih wood.
The saddle horsest work uii«noed from spring until autumn,
when the wet season commences; their feet are in a fnw state
of pivserviition in C0MM.-<]Uv»ce : the kenm-l of boarhouiids is
word) attention.
Late in August, Mr. Sewell visited the Veterinary School ftl
Berlin ; which was foundi'd by the late king, I-'iedertc 11. 'Hie
theatif of anatomy, niuseuni, and directing roi>n>-i form one
detached building, probably the niusi handsome and commodious
Biniclure of the kind in Europe. The museum is less extensive
than that at Paris, but larger than the museum at Vientm, and
contains some novelties which the latter doe^ not possess. It
lias tt complete t\r\v% of xkelelons, fruiii the horse and ux down
to llir tmalh-st (pmdruped, mid the »kin of an African horse,
which hiiv not the sliglnext appearance of hair upon it ; iherc is
s good collection of lihoe* of dilleix-nt countries. 'Pitt forge is
well conducted, and the pupils, ntannally iiulructv*) by the pro-
fessor. The method of si-curing liorws for siioelng, or opera-
tions, is very ingenious, and worthy of imitation. 'I1ie king's
honrs are shocd at llie m-IioijI forge, and the cavalry aie shoed
nccording to the pliin nf the trhoui. The iitabtex are well con-
*
PREFACE TO THE I'WELFTH EDITION. XIX
structed, paved, atid ventilated; the box stalls, and placps for
other domestic animals, are well arranged. Litter is not tised
during the day, but sand is strewed under the horses. The
stables were full of patients of all descriptions: there were
several cases of lameness and lethargy similar to those at
Vienna, and their treatment was nearly the same. There was a
case of locked jaw that had been cured by a method diflerent
from that employed in this country.* A riding house is at-
tached to the school, for the instruction of pupils intended for
the army ; who receive pay from the time of entrance. There
is a beautifully constructed warm water and vapour bath, with a
room adjoining, to receive the patients after bathing, which is
heated occasionally by a stove ; the bath is supplied with hot or
cold, water by an ingenious hydraulic contrivance. The royal
stables are handsome buildings, and kept in excellent order.
Sand is used under the horses instead of litter in the day time.
They adjoin the river Spree, into which there is a paved slope,
which enables them to bathe or wash their horses. Mr. Sewell
brought with him some useful instruments for relieving oxen or
sheep that are hoven or bloKJt ; he has, since his return, sent them
into the country for trial ; they are said to be employed, with
great success, in Germany,
On arriving at Hanover, Mr. Sewell was introduced to Pro-
fessor Havemann by assistant Professor Houscmann, whom he
had seen in England. The infirmary stables had much dila-
pidated during the war, from being occupied by foreign cavalry.
There were no patients in them. The royal stables which will
contain between two and three hundred horses, are near the
school ; they are handsome buildings, well constructed, light,
airy and spacious; the windows have canvass shades.
In Holland there are no veterinary schools. The royal
stables at the Hague are well constructed, and in fine order.
The heads of the stalls and bottoms of the mangers are lined
with glazed Dutch tile, and are kept in the cleanest slate, with
very little trouble. Sand is used in the stalls in the day time.
At Brussels, there was nothing worthy of attention, except an
effeclual method of draining a large barrack stable, which Mr.
Sewell does not describe. He says, that by inquiries and oh-
serration, he obtained in Holland some vsefiil practical inform-
ation, which, with the new remedy for locked jaw, the German
method of treating lethargic complaints, and the various im-
• Had the governorB of the Veterinary Colkge known that locked jaw ia
very rarelj cured in this country, they would perhaps have desired Mr. Sewell
lo describe the succeurul mode of treating it to which he alludea. This com-
munication, probably, with the other larfui obtervationi he msy have made,
will be published at a more convenient time.
a 2
XX
FRCFACe TO THE TWELFTH EOITIOW.
proTcineiiu he may liavfl obsen-ed in the practice of lite veie-
rinary art, lie will, no doubt, communicate lo the public.
It is difficult, perhaps impossible, to form a correct com-
parative estimate of the state of veterinary wii'nrv in this country
and France, merely by perusing the work* of tlie I'rwich pro-
fessors and veterinary practitioners; but if one might prv--<unic
to judge from such evidence, the niiihor would feel no hesitation
in saynij^, that he ihinkn the veterinarv art liaa made greater
progren in Kiiglatid tliun in France. In ihe latter countryt it
was cultivated by men of science, at an early period ; but here,
it can scarcely be said to have existed till tlic establishment of
the Veterinarv College. Some good ])ntctical works appeared
before that lime, particularly Gibson'K and Clarke's; but tl»e
anatomy and physiology of the hoi-se had not been attended to.
Since ilutt pei-iod, however, it has l>eenasaiduouily mudied; atid
to (he acquisition of tliti t-s^ntial branch of knowledge we may
aiiribulc the great improvement (liat has been made in tlte
treatment of diseases. French practitioners appear lo be aitll
influenced by the humoral puihulogy, as it is termed, and, con-
soipii-nily, dqii-nd too mtieh on ilceoctions of plants, aiid other
vegt'iiible pr('{>ar:itionx, in aciilt! di*eit«.-s, many of which arc
nearly, if not ()uite, inert, with respect to the Iioi'ie; white
similar diseases in ttiis counti;)' are often subdued by one copious
bleeding. Much praise, however, is due to tlin veterinary prac-
titioners of France for the great attention ihey appear to pav to
morbid anatomy. The accuracy and niinuleue» with wfiich
morbid Bubjects are examined after death, and the scrupulous
attention with which every symptom of a dis<-ase is observed and
noted, i# nonhy the imitation of British practitioners.
WdU, Somenet, October, 18l«.
CONTENTS.
PART 1.
THE ECONONT OP THE STABLE.
Faga
Intkoddctidm • - . .1
Chap. I. — Od the Stable - - - 1
Chap. II. — Feeding - - - -7
Chap. IIL — On the Treatment of Horaea in Summer • II
Cbap. IV. — Exercise, Training, &c. - •IS
Dircetioiu (br nunsgiog a Hone an ■ Jomjiej IS
PART II.
THE STBUCTUHE AND ECONOMY OF THE HORSE.
Chap. V. — A general View of the Structure of the Horse - 17
Chap. VL — Od the Skeleton - - - 20
Bona of tbe Hod - - - 83
Trunk - . - 87
Fore Eitronity - -89
Hind Eitremfty . - 33
Chap. VII. — On the Joints - - - 35
Chap. VIII. — On the Muscular System - - 37
Chap. IX. — On the Brain and Nerves - - 43
Chap. X. — On the Chest, its Contents and Connections - iS
Tbe Stemum — Diaphragm — Pleura — Lungii — Wind-
pipe — Broncbiie — Laryni — Nogtril* k;^-4S
StJuMure and FuDctions of the Heut - - 49
Chap. XL — On the Circulation of the Blood - - .50
Chap. XII. — The Blood, its Nature and Composition - 54
XXIV CONTENTS.
P-g.
Cmap. XXXVU.— Diieasei of the Kidneys - - 186
Inftamnution of ( Nephritu) ■ - 1S6
HKDUturU, or Bloodjr liriiw - - 1 BT
Chap. XXXVlII. — Diseues of the Bladder • . 188
laflAinmitioi] of (Cynitii) • - IStl
Retention of Urine ■> - 189
Ctlcuti in tbe Bladder - - 191
Openlioiu for Calculi in thi Bladder (Litho-
tomy) - - - 198
Diabetei • - - I»S
Chap. XXXIX. — Diseases of the Mouth - - 195
Lunpoi, Begif Ulcen in the Mouth. Uoentted
Tongue, Quidding - - 196
ObMructioiu in the (£sop1uigu> - . 800
Crap. XL. — Acute and Chronic Rheumatiam • - 201
Chap. XLI. — Epizootic or Epidemic Diseases - • 205
Influenn ... SOG
Chap. XLII. — GlBDdera, &C. - - - 2U
Farcy - - . - aSE
Chap. XLIII. — Anasarca, &c. - - • 234
Swelled Legi ... 335
Weed — Chapped Heela . .837
Creua ... 333
Bur«autec . • - 339
Chap. XLIV. — The Structure and Diseases of the Skin - 240
Surieit
Hide-bound
Mange
Mallcnden and Sallendera
Crotrn Scab and Rat Tnili
311
243
943
245
Chap. XLV. — Warts — Wens — Encysted Tumours - 2+5
Melanoii* ... 246
Chap. XLVI. — The Structure and Functions or the Eye - 248
On VUton ... 356
Chap. XLVII. — Diseases of the Eye - - 258
Simple Ophlhalmia . . 35B
SpeciAo Ophthalmia - - S59
Cataract . .362
Amauroiis, or Gutta Serena . 364
CONTENTS. XXV
Fige
Chap. XL VIII. — On LameneiB trom Straini . - 265
Shoulder Stnin - . - S66
Stnin* of tbt Knee Joiol - - S6S
A DcKTiption of the Tendoiu, kcoflbe Leg - Sf S
Stnin of the Fleior Tendons, or Bwk Sinewi - 2TI
Strain of the Fetlock Jmnt - - 271
Breaking Down - 372
StiuD of the SiupeoHnr LiguiwDts - 378
Wlndgdli -273
Streinofthe Coffin Jmnt . • STS
Slnua of the Loliu - . - S71
Stnin oTtlie Hip Jinnt - - ST4
Stnin of the Stifle - - -SIS
DiitoeatioD of tlie PaleUe • - 975
Chap. XHX. — Exoitosig - • - 276
SpllnU - - 976
Perlaneatomy . . - 375
Ringboae ... S7b
OMiHcelion of tbe Latenl CortibgM 979
Chap. I Structure sntl Diseases of the Hock Joint - 28U
Strain of tbe Ligametili, ftc. - - SSI
Bone Sparin ... S8!
Bog SpCTin ... 383
TboTCHigh-pini * - . 5S4
Curb . - - - 885
Chap. LI. — Wounds, Bruises, Abiceis, &i'. - - 285
Wcnindsofvuiout Parts end Cavities - . £85
Ad Abaoeu ... <jgg
Serous Abiceai, C&pped flociit, Capulets . SSS
Injuries of Bones - . US9
Wouiuti of the Abdomen - . S90
Broken Knees ... 391
Opened Jtuntt . . ssn
SMidle OiUs, &o. ■ - 393
FWula of the Witbcn - • - £91
Poll Evil . 39,;
Chap. LII. — On Fractures - - - 297
Chap. LlII — On the Stiiicture and Economy of the Foot - '2BS
Chap. LIV. — On Shoeing and the Management of the Feet S0(>
Chap. LV. — Injuries connected with Shoeing, and Wounds
of the Foot - - . SIS
Punctured Wounds of the Foot - . 331
Bruise* of the Foot ... 3Ju
Cutting ... 334
Orer.reaching ... 3^3
Halter Cast . , - 32S
b
Xxn COMTBNTS.
Pig"
Chap. LVJ. — Diaeasei of the Foot > - S27
Conu - • - - S9T
Sind Cnok — Pain Qiuiter . 338
QuItlOT - ■- - 3S9
Thnuh - i - 330
Cuiket • - - 331
Lamimlu. or Founder ■ - 333
Cbronio Lunenen. — Contracted Heeli - S3G
The NanouUr Jouit Dueue - . 33*
Chap. LVIl. — Operations, &c - . - 340
Bleeding ... 340
Inflamed Vein • - - 344
Phyiio - - - - 34S
Clyrten - . - 347
Bliiten - - - 347
Rowda - . . 34S
Setoni - - - •349
Chap. LVm. — OperatioM - - - SSO
Caatiug, or Thrawiiig ... sSO
Catmaau Hobfalei - • - 350
ImproTcd Hobbles, Sk, . . 351
Firinjt - - - - 3S5
NiokiDg ... 357
Docking ... 35g
Tbe Nerve Operation - . . ass
Cutration • - - 3$5
b]r Caustic Clami - . s69
by Ligature - . 3^
by Torsion - . . 3^9
On Hamia, or Rupturi» - . 370
Chap. LIX The Structure of the Teeth, and the Me^od
of judging the Age . . 374
Chap. LX. — Hints to the Purchasen of HorseB - • S79
Warranty . . 309
Soundnew ... 990
PART IV.
MATERIA HEDICA AND PHARMACOPfEIA.
Introduction - • • . 394
Weights and Measures ... 5gg
Materia Medica and Pharmacopoeia - - . 399
XXYll
LIST OF ENGRAVINGS.
Ha. P*8«
1. A coloured EngraTmg of a perpendicular Section of the Foot
and LcfCi showing their internal Structure • Frontitpiece.
2. Improved Rack anu Maoger - - - 3
3. The Skeleton - - - - 22
i. The Stomach and Duodenum cut open • - 65
6. The Intestines - ' - - - 66
6. Read's Vapour Inhaler - - - 127
7. The healthy Larynx - - -138
Roaring produced by —
8. Curvature of the Larynx - • - 138
9l Contracted Windpipe ... I3g
lOi DiKHsed larynx • - - 139
11. Absorption of the Muscles - - 139
12. Strangulation of the imall Intestines - - 171
13. of the Rectum - - - 171
14. of the Ileum and Colon . . 171
15. Intus-susception of the small Intestines into the Cecum - 172
16. Stnutgulatioa by Means of a fatty Tumour • • 172
IT. Hg. 1. The Eye with expanded Pupil - - 253
18. Fig. 2. with contracted Pupil - - 253
19. Fig. 3. with partial Cataract -" - 254
SO. Fig. 4. with complete Cataract - • 254
!1. The Tendons, &c. of the Leg - - - 270
SS. Periosteotomy Knife ... 277
S$. fig. 1. The Foot with the Crust removed - - 300
24. Ftg.2. T^e Bottom of the sensible Foot - • 300
85. Fig. 3. Front View of the Bones of the Foot and Pastern 301
26. Fig. 4. Back ^ew of ditto - - 301
87. ^. 5. Back View of the Pastern and Fetlock, showiDg the
Fexor Sinews - - - 302
88. Fig. 6. Back View of the Postern and Fetlock, with the
Sinews removed ... 302
89. Fig. 1. The Bottom of the Foot - - 307
Sa Kg. 2. The French Shoe - - - 307
31. Fig. 3. The French Shoe on the Foot - - 307
M: Fig. 1. The English Shoe - - . - 312
S3. I^g. 2. A hinged Shoe - - - 312
H. The Bar Shoe - - - - 315
85. Fig. 1. Mr. Turner's unilateral Shoe - - 316
36. Fig. 2. Mr. Turner's unilateral Shoe modified • - 316
XXVIll LIST OF ENaRAVINOB.
No. P,^
37. Fig. 1. Side View of a Sound Foot • . 335
38. Fig. 2. Side View of a Pumice Foot - - 335
39. Fig. 3. Side View of a Foot too upright - - 335
40. Fig. ] . A healthy Foot in au unpared State • • 336
41. Fig. 2. A contracted Foot - - - 936
42. Lancets . • - - 340
43. An improved Fleam ... 340
44. A Seton Needle - - - - 349
45. Frog Seton Needle - • - 349
46. Improved Slide Seton Needle of great Extent - 349
47. Figure of a Horse, showing the >u>de of fixing the Hobbles ;
also the Seat of several Diseases, and the different Me-
thods of firing .... 350
48. Improved Hobbles - - - - 352
49. Docking Knife - - - - 358
50. The Nerve Operation, showing both the upper and lower
Section .... 359
51. Nerving Knife - . ^ , 364
52. New mrving Knife ... get
53. Clam for castrating . _ . 366
54. Clam, with R^ulating Screw . - . 356
55. Bistouri Cache - - . - 371
56. The lower Incisor Teeth, showing the Changes effected by
Age ; also the internal Structure and several Sections of
a young permanent Tooth - . . . 377
ERRATA.
Page 65., in the d««T!ptioD cf the cut, roil *■ duodenum " intUad of "KTcr."
Pag* SSS; in the dc*criptioD of the eu^ for •* ltd" read "right," and tar •• right'
A
TREATISE
VETERINARY MEDICINE.
PART I.
THE ECONOHT OF THE STABLE.
INTRODUCTION.
As the preservation of the horse's health ia an ohject of the high-
est importance, I shall begin my treatise with some observations
on that subject. The most effectual method of accomplishing this
is to keep him in a wholesome stable, work him fairly, feed him
properly, and to observe all those attentions which, taken toge-
ther, and considered generally, are named grooming. Accord-
ing to this view of the subject, the first object of consideration ia
the coiutruction and arrangement of the stable.
CHAPTER I.
OH THE STABLE.
LoFTiHEBS is very desirable in a stable. It should never be less
than twelve feet high, which will admit of its being properly
ventilated, without tne necessity of currents of cold air. The air,
by being breathed, becomes unfit for the purpose i^in, having
undergone a change in its constituent principles. This change
consists in the deprivation of a portion of its oxygen, which ia
essential for the purpose of life, and the subsUtution in its stead
of carbonic acid gas, the inhalation of which would quickly
deprive an animal of existence. Fortunately the respired air,
from being heated, quickly ascends, whilst a supply of fresh
air enters the noetrila. The foul air, from this circumstance, does
not enter the lungs again, unless the pure air of the stable be
exhausted) or so diminished as to become mixed with tliat pre-
viously expired. Thus the partial deprivation of oxygen is
B
THK EOOKOMY OF
productive of <]i»rsso, ami its total lo«s fnlul to ]\to. VrntiUlion
is necessary all the y<-u>r rotiiK): iu tlu> wiiiu-r, for cupplying
port- air for tlic purpose of liri.'viitiing lit tlie place of i)i»t which
}» impure ami unlit ; <iiid in tlie autntner, noi only for tli» pur-
yxp-t: 1)111 nUo to coo) tite stable as much as possible. Stablee
sliouid, lliercrorc, be coiistructcd to sdmit boll) lliosc purpose's—
in the summer lo admit as much cool nir as possible, and in the
winter sufficient for the purpose of purity, without rendering the
Blablc too cold, or ocaiHioiiinj; «lmught». It follown, hawrvcr, tliAt
if wu ciiti ensure our end in cold weather, we nni readily do so
in hoi H'eiither, by mcAus of the doors and uinduws. The
heated foul air may be allowed to escape by means of a chimney,
or square opening in the ceiling, communicating with the open
air, or it may be made in the form of a dome or ctijwlo, whidi
would be more ornamental. 'Ilie chimney iictftl not be ofwn at
tlie top, io lu to admit ihe iiiin, but should be roofed, ami have
lateral openings by means of weather-boards, as they are termed.
A still i>eller plan is, by having smaller ojienings over eacit
stall, any of which may be closed when the horse is absent. The
admiMiun of pure nir ih likewino lu W provided for : if allovrcd
to come in at the windows, there will be » grrat druiigltt on tlie
horse's hind ijuariers, where il is least rec|uired. The liest plan
is lo admit it towards the animal's head, by means of a pijie or
wo(Kk-n box having a number of perforations, so that ihere maj'
!»' no sudden draught in any <tircclion. Cold air should i>ol be
nlluned to enter the stable door or near the horse's tiecU, us this
it very likely to produw gn-ose, or chapped hcik — Kl>.]
A Riable, when projierly pave<l, and kept moderately rle«n, re-
quires only a sliallow wide gutter, twelve inches wide, and one
inch deep. The best floor for a stable, by fur, is bard brick ;
nnd, next to that, linicstonc, not li-ss ihnn one fool square. I
havoMX-n astabte belonging lo Mr. I.ovell of Wells, that is ihit*
pAvcd, but with wider stones, and so chipped ii« to luive numc-
i'ou§ small furrows, all of them tending towards the centre and
buck part, and I never JK-fore saw bo clean or 8o nice a stAblt%
except one txrlonglng to Mr. Atkinson, at Cheddingion, and iImU,
I think, was Miperior to any I ever met with, esiiecially in iu
interfor arrangement The floor of the stall shoiihl newr iiieliiie
more tlian one inch in a yard, und the inclinnlion thould bccon-
Itnued back to the gutter only. Some litter aJiould alwayi be
aIIowmI for a horse to sinle upon, which should l>e swept away
IU often as in ncce«s<iry. This, with a pallor two of water thrown
upon iIh* floor, wid swept off wliiie the hor»e is ai exercise, will
keep the stable perfectly elcxn, and free fi-om offensive smelb.
'lilts plan can be furlher insured, and the litter Raved, by mt-ans
of small gratings, nine iiKhes by four.nluced in tl>e middt^of thr
atiill lor IioraeV) and at lite bnck part for mares, covering a small
THR KTARI.E.
underjiTOuntl dram, which may be made lo cominuntoitc wiilt
tlw dunc-lM^ap or ccss-pool. 'itte depth of a liable ahuuld not
be IcH dian eighteen ki-ti nor l)>e liei){hl, aa I ob^rved before,
IfM ihsn Iwclvi*. 'Hh' vridtb ufm stall etioidd not be less tluin
>ix feet c\v9r. But, wtwii tln-re is iiiflicient room, it h a niiiclt
beittr |ilaii to allow each hone a tpacv of ten or iweiv*.- rrel,
wliere h<^ may looie and exercise himM>)rn liitte. This will be
an cfiectual ntettni of aroidin); awolieii heeli, aiid a grriii relief
to horses that are worked hanl. VViih resnect lo the rack and
manger, 1 have given a pUte of one which I Iwve seen employed
in a waggon-slablo wiili die liest effecl. It is iiileiided for two
borves; for horses whint a lilde accustomi-d to each other, and
working together, will ulwaj-« agree well when kept in (lie Mine
stall, e^peeully when ihcy have, an it the caitn here, wpanile niiiti-
gers, and are prevented by their halieiii from iiiicH'enng with
each others corn. The sjiace fi>r two liorses is twi-lve feel. The
mangers and rack are all on a level, and about three feel fi-om
tile ground. Tlte manger should never be less than eighteen
inclies dei-(», eighleen inches from the from to the back purl,
and two fM>l in leni^ih. 'i'he rack should \x four f<fi for one
bone ; for ihoiigh ihe cut represenu a stall for two honw^ the
CC, 'Hie nln of the cull.
DD. IW rifht-haDil Driymmlillic
rod or Ihc hallcr. with llic (ammini
ilii^ .iil;j|.i^ ilia Ivft-liwiH D ■how*
llic [.. .1! I. Jilt tii'iiin driwn
tirlY, , II l.y iiiii.il-!.: ]>ul-
Itfy* ; -iji iiu,.r J-,-: jjI.lu. by wLicli iJie
(Un^?r nf catling it HvoiclHl
line kiiKl of contrivance ia equally or better adopted for one,
ltd thai i* what I am now describing. The rack is niiresenteil
with KtavM in the front, like a common ruck, but this is not
Decenary ; indeed, it is better to have it l-Iom-<1 in front. The
biick part of the rock should be an inclined plane, made of wood ;
n 2
■mK KCOOOMT OP
nhoitltl be i^nulualty sloped towards tl>e ffx>nt, and should tenni-
nnie nbont two fe«i down. Sudi a rack will hold more hay than
ever oiif^lit to be put before one horse. The advantages of this
rack are numerous. In ihe first place, thcr hay is nisily pntinto
it) and ivnders a hay-loft ovt-r tin- stable uiini.-ccK«ary ; luid this
Diay be an indiKement (o ihi- builder to make tlii^ iitabh^ ■« loftv
tu It o(i{;ht to bo, and ri-ndcr other veniilai'ion umirce«uiry. All
t])e Imy that m put into this matiger will be eaten ; but in the
comniot) riu:k it i» well knovn that a large portion of the hay b
ofti'ii pulk-d down upon the lilter and trodden upon, whereby a
conuoerahle ciuanliiy is ofli-n woelcd. It prevents the hay-aee<b
or dtist from tnllin); upon the horse, or into his oyc«; and what
is of considerable iinporinnce, though seldom attended tOi there
will be an inducenM*iit to the f^ronm to fiiw the hone hay in
snmll quantities at n time, and frequently, from the little trouble
which aliendH putting it into the rack. The saring in hav that
may be efrectcd by the use of thia rack ia so apparent that it
need not bo dwelt upon. >Soinc mischievous horses will throw
out the hay with their noso« : but this may be pffeclually pii'vented
by one or two crusts bars — that is, crossitij; iIh- upper part of
inn crib front ih« back to l)i« front. * A great mving, also,
may Iw made in oats by so fastening the horse's h<»d during tlie
time of feeding that he cannot throw any of them out of ilie
manger. f If a horse a allowed a peck of oats a day, and haa, as
* Mr. Staccy, laldy croom 04* the *l%l>lc8 of tli« Eurl vf Derby, produced
sonic inoilcU ol' Ilia newly intciilrd anil iiDjiratnl racks mid mangM* bcdbrc
the Veterinary Mcilicul .\Modiitiun. A wooden piutition is creeled M the
liiMul ul' cucli stult. n.-Bc)iliii; rruin llie jwvuineal In niwrljr or quite ibe otiliw,
mill «illi II i-lotnl lull-mi liirision, <ir noor, a hllk- nlxivi- llio lieidu nt itbich
the top of the man^ iKiuld tic ploeo). The pnnhion id divided liy thn Aoof
inio two coiupartmonls. one sbortt the other. The upper one ia ileaigmid (o
mctivc the hny for each recilina, which a introduced bv iiicaus of a eircnltf
apettnre in lliv iiiiper part of tlie liont, nnd which ■ slidin); door iainiediMdy
doMM. Dclow ihi* is another openinj;, square or circular, or ofoajr form tliat
tbc owner ploucs. coalBinins round upright staves, nHitlitulIng a rack, and
ncDLiiBt niiicli ilii! huf iiitrouiiceil at the ugipe* opening lodge*. Btotcalile
Blidc« muy be drnwn belore this Bpsrture alio.
Unilcr tliR raft are three parallel drawer*, each of vrliich mey be putl«d out
orreluriied al plcusiirf. The cenlml one is ihe innn)^ri that on the near
■itiu inav IxiUl ii uioi-h or grurl, vliile the one on llic off' xide, by iiieann of a
nick prujccliiig from the back, nnd connniinicaiinf; bv nienn«orapl[ic aitb the
jiuijip or ri'si-rvoir, lupplles liic liorw with water.
Ill the central ilrnwer, or manger, i^t-en uii^Bt inny bv ploctxl ; and (hen tlieee
nrc lome iron lion which run acrots it, tliiia preventing ilie fur.i*:* from being
drawn out in too birve qunntilici, ood coniccjiientJj' wuiIi^J. Thii mnithiitca
u lerj- tpoA solUnick or mangtr. Tlie tpuce uiulcr the rack hu likcwWe
•lidinK itoon to it, and here (he simw nml litter maj be kept. Tho silualiod
of ihe ring* (o wbieh the halter ia «tt«eheii may be varied nt plcanirc. {I'rtf
nnirr^Aia, vol. 18. p. 193,) — Ktt.]
t This nay lie efll-ciod by a crou-faar six or eight inches IVoni (neb HUe,
THi! BTABLK.
froi
he may have, one eighth i>art thus saved, it will amouiil to nearly
peck in a week. There must not, however, he a iliminulion
the horse's allowancv on this account, if my advice with
cl to feeding be followed' This kind of rack and manj^er,
from bein;; boarded up in front, will efT^'ctiiBlly prevent ttve litier
"wm ix-ing kept eonntantJy under the horni-'s lieod and eyes, by
rhicli he u coinjtelled to brt-atlti; the vapoiin* which aricc from
it. The leiijjth of the hnltc-r xliould be only four feet from the
?ad-3lall to tlie ring through which it iMuees : this will admit of
lis lying down with ease, and that a all which is requiretl. The
tine should be placed close to that side where the manger i*,
nu not in the centre of the stall. 'Ute sides of the stall should
Ijc sufficiently hif-h awl tkep, to prevent Iwnw-s from biting and
kicking ntdi oilier. In |>o»t and waggon itUible*, where tlie stall
made for « pair of hones (he nuuiger will be placed at each
nd, as dcMTibed in tl»e plate, and the liay-crib in the centre."
The window of the stable should l>c at tlie soutlfeast end.
ad tlie door at tlie opposite end. The window should Ix^ ns
igh as the ceiling will admit of, aiHl in siee proportioned to tltat
' the stable. In one of twelve tt.'et high, it need not come down
than five feel, and will tlicn be seven feci from the ground,
ud out of the way of being broken. The frame of the window
liould be moveable upon a pivot in the centre, and opened by
ae«ns of a cord running over a pulley in iho ceiling, and fas-
tncd by means of another cord. It is a good plnn to have two
jtt, or to have the common door diviiU'^) Iranitvcrsfly, about
or five feet from the ground ; the upt«-r jwrt may then be
sionally left ojh'Ii. Where mudi light h udmttted, the walk
stable i^houUl not t>e white, but ot a stucco or lead colour,
nd better if painted; for then they may always be washed clean
with soap and water, aa well as the stalls, rack, and manger;
^Mnd this should he done once in two or three weeks, or a month
^^pt furlhesl. If the waits are boarded up to the height of about
^^fevc feet, and this, as well as the stalls, paintetl of a light wainscot
^^Bolour, it will look extremely neat, and ibu under part of tho
^Krail will be kept drier, and look moiv comfortable. A stable,
^^nay be lighted by nK<ans of an Argaiid lamp suipcndcd fnnn
tlie ceiling, and morvable. 'i1iis will give a rar better light, is
lieaper, nn<l more secure tlian any other contrivance whatever,
Kcept ga»-lighi, aiid, if properly trimmed, will burn without a
srticle of smoke. Instead of having a large corn-chest in the
sble, n handsome seat may be made at the back of die stable,
(tending as far as may be necessary : in this there may be par-
itions to sepsTste the beans, or tlie brun, ond places may be
Prrhap*. on the whole, (be bc!it nitiiBlinn for the rack, in ordjnsr}* xtsblci,
I on a kvcl with the borvc'n lioul. — Eu]
B S
tiijule to rest tlie nrms upon, so that a gentleman may git down
comforiably in his stable, and see his horses taken care or. A
stable thus oonstriicled will be round conducive to the health
and the comfort of horses, and will ulTonl uti indiictinctu to the
groom to iitlfitd to every littlu circiiimtam-e winch nwiy con-
Iribtilr lo clMUilincwi. Htf will iwt allow the sinallrMt bit of
diinf( to i-ctnnin swi-|)t up «t onv ciiil of tlie atablC) MA it com-
monly is. 'I'lio pitils »hoidd be kept outside, and not suuidiug
alwut the stable, as they cominoidy are. If it is necessary to
take olTthe chill from water, it is much better, and more easily
done, by the addition of a little hot water, than by siifTering it
to stand in the stable ; and while the lioni-s are at exercise, the
litter should be <t]l turned out tu dry, mid the tloor well washed
or swept out. A liltlv iVetli Ktriiw mny llicti lx> placed for the
borsow to stale ii[>on. Litter thuit drit^d during iIh> tlay will
serre again as well as fresh straw for the Ixnioni of ilic )>»), And
\}e ]>erfectly free from smell. The litter necessary to be kept
under a horse tliat ho may stale with comfort, and without
iplasliing liimH.-lf, ts not eonsiderahle, and may be cliangeil once
a day. A great luiving may be made in litter by turning it out,
um) drying it ait 1 have detcribed ; ami if a slieil were built ad*
joining a Hiable, it may be done at all liniot, and may mtw alto
to exercise and clean a tion« in wet weailier.
Neidier dogs, Ibwis, nor goaU fthoiild evi-r be permitted to
enter a stable * : and dung sliould be kejit iit a distance Inim it.
In speaking of thi; arrangi'menls of the stable, it may not be
amiss to notice what I conuder a good contrivaiwe in cleaning
horses ; that is, to have two straps, one uii each side the titall,
about one yard from the lirad ot it Dy these the horse may
be ^tened during the time he is cleaned, by which me«uta he
will be effectually prevented from biting the manger or tlie
groom; and being ke|>t b»ck in the Mbul, ibe groom will l>e
belter able to eleiin the front of Jii» (ore legs, chest, and neck,
and be able to move round him : thiH tit better Uinn strapping
him to the rack. When the common rack and manger arc pre-
ferred, the rock slaves should be straight, and brouglti nearly
down to the manger, and iIuk may eoaily be dune without t)ie
necessity of a hav-Ioft, and the manger may be made deep and
wide, as I have <iescribed iL
* WliMt a horw thai has been •ceuuoraed to rvmimny in Cnki-n to a litii-
nllon Klicrc only one horto ia kept, tlie Miclet}' of u gcwt nmy ccmlributc lo
his rtiaiton, and mol^c him moro chtrrl'nl ihan he would otherwise bej ooil
vbeeil'iiliietB in certainly cundiicnc |g liculih.
rztotso.
CHAP. IL
FCEOIMO.
'riE beat IVkkI for liorsos h oaM and hay ; l>iit il » oF importance
:ial audi only should be given as are of (lie treat (|iiality. OiUk
at are musty, or that nave any degree of bad smell, are not
'eaten with that relish that good sweet oats are ; therefiire tJiey
arc not so perfectly digt-stcd, nor is the chyle tliac is formed from
thvm so iiiirr; hcnci.- aircc ir](]ig<.-siion, foiilnc-s-^ of blood, loose-
neat of the bowels, and scni-ral drbihty, 'Hiis is more especially
ih<' coii»c<iiicnw,* when the hay also i» bad. I imvc known a
serious Iom sti«iaiiK-d by a proprietor of post and eoach hones,
from Iceepitig a con»denible stock of oata, and neglecting to turn
them. Many Imraes became glandered and farcied, ap])Arenily
in consequence of this circinnstance. ISean^, wl»en broken or
bruised, may be an iifcfiil article of diet, joined with oais, for
horses whose work is cotiiiaiit and bard. 1 have been assured,
however, by some experienced coach and post mnaters, that
during (ho liot summer montlis it is better to discontinue the
bv*ns. • Some horses, it is said, do not eat bruispd oata with an
appetite ; in which ca»c it is prohable ihcy do not digest them
quite m rtadily at tliose which are not bniised. Awl wlicn we
coniirler thai iIhtk i» often n ch-fwt in the grinders, which causra
a horce to mantirati- slowly and imperft-eily; that hor»es have
sometimes a voraitiou.i appetite, and swallow a oonxideratilc iwirt
of their corn witltoul chewing it; and as corn that is swallowed
unbroken is knovrn to be indigestible; the bruising of oats must
be considered as a matter of great importance, and may be the
means of saving a considerable quantity of that articlo.f Another
circumstance to be considered is, tlmt when oats arc taken into (be
BtoniHch unbroken, Ix'ing indi^ji-siihle, tlioy cause a ctchI deal of
uselcM exenion of the stomach in endeavouring to digest them.
(his exertion is not only um-Icns but very injunous, gradually
■flkening that imt>orunt organ, and laying a tt>iin<ktion for
Any diseases, espet-ially tluit nanii-d llatulcnl colic, or gripes.
It is generally thought, and I hnve been of the same opinion,
at chalT, especially of clover, is an useful addition to oats, in
• Mftiiy lortji- horsu [iropriMors pivc green fooil in ihc »iiin(iiw ini-t«3(l of
hay, in which cuic beans *houhl Iw given lo counlemcl the tcnilcncy the enwi
may have lo produce icourinii. Moti honci cut )^an prmtndn with aridity :
Biid ir give^n wiih mudenlion. luid uith suuic |iurtii>n of liiijr, !t id bund
vorji twiielicial : Uiit if mvta too profuxcly, uiuJ purliriilnrly if juitt cm, it i* apt
to produce llatiitmc c>^ic. — Rd.]
f Bruiwd ob» arc apt ta produce ilianhccD, pnrticulnrlv if the Hntinat to
wwked bard I they iboulO thervforu be given with chufl'HiiJ bcniiH. — Eo.]
a 4
e
>NOKT OP THE STABLE.
(rnusin? ltii?m lo be perfectly moslicatcd. It is also titoueht, that
iCihe norae's liay were given princiitally, or even wholly in the
form of chalT, it would Im* the means of a jfrMt saTtrig uf h»y, as
well as of insuring a perfect mastication of ihr oats. IIhtv arc
circumstances to be considered, lioncver, which nmy niitlce rather
ftgitinxi this opinion. " HurM's cvrtniiily prefer rating hay from
tho rack : nTicI wlK>n it i* ff)0<l, and f^iven fonr timea a day in
aniall qunntiiieA. the horse will oat lii» allowance with avidity, or
with that appetite which will insure a perleet digestion and
assimilation of tlte food; and so will it be with oaU when ihey
rare Rood, cleanly sifted, and given in small portions at a timci
[and if spread thmly on the bottom of a wide manfrcr, tlicrc will
be no danger of his eating them too greedily. If he lias any
sharp c<lgos in his grinders which iirevcnt him from maitticKting
[propcrly, ihcy mutit Iw roipcd or filed, ns will b<' deicribcd herc-
I after. OaU tliiu given, and not in excut*, but duty proportioned
I to ihe horsc'a iiork, will be perfectly ma.Hticatcd, cfigefitt-d, and
I asiimilaied : the chyle formed from such a diet, and so dispensed^
J will be pure, and consecjuently the blood will be so also. Now
lilet us conlrasl with this simple, nholesome, and economical
fXnodc of feeding, that which is commoriiy adopted. Tlw hay, in
the first plncv, is cither of indilTerent or bad tjuiilily, jind giv<*ii
in unlimited quantity. The oats arc generally, perhaps, tolerably
good; but someiimrtt they are indifferent, or even musty und
unwholesome : thoy are dixpeiucd irregularly, and often in too
large quantities at a time, and so thrown into the manger that a
horse may easily fill Itis mouth, and in mich a way llmt he must
'9 Mr. StewDTt, in hi« work o«i Sta&te EtvHomy, after enumeniting at length
t1l« uiltaulugcs BiiJ duBtlniiitagm or chulT-ctitting, Uiusaums them llni —
" That, wImtc ihe stablemen nrc i-iixcrul, wMte of tu6tl«t is dunInishtMj,
ifaooKh not prci'ciiicd.
I " Thui. wliicf ihf ttAt art gooJ, careful atnblcmm maj prevent nearly all
'WaalA of foUiicr, wiihuiit riiltinjt it.
" Hut an uccumte itiniriliiiiioii of fodder i* iiol n vtiy im|Kirtsnt obk-i-t.
" That no horae meuis to like Uis tom the better lor bdng mioglcil with
chalK
" That, otaoae half.4tamd hontt^ ehnflk-utcing pronKXes the conaumption
vf damaged CuJiier.
** That rulL-feil hurac*. rather than ent the mixture of sound and unsound,
will reject the wliole, or cat leai than their work d«iii»ndg.
" Inat chalTia more caiil; cntcn ilinn hay : ih.ii thin it »n adtantage to oM
i_burse id uthern wurkiii); all diij' ; a diiudraiita|;c when the hortoa stand
Dug in [he stiibie.
That chnff cn«irc> complete maiticntion and deliberate Ingestion of the
[«om .- that it is of eiiuiidemliie and of ni<iit impnftnnee in this raped i thai
all the fodder iicliI not be iiiiii];l<xl with the corn, one nound of eh«fl' twii^
sitllieietil In eniure ihe innMieniion anil slow inseitioo of four nouDfU of com.
" Tliiil the co«[ o( (uttinK aU the fodder, Mpecinlly for DCavy horaca, i*
rt-fuiid only where the Iwy Is dear, and niutnl in Inritc aunnlitiM.
" That,aiiKiiigluird.«rorkii)g honea, huil lixJdcr should never be cut."— Bp.|
FEKDINO.
ft
necMuty swallow aama of them unmaalicsted or unlirolcen.
This is more espec'tally the case when two or moi'e horses am
feeding tog;ether without a separation ; each of them is eager to
finish nis allowance as quickly as poisible, in order to rob his
neighbour ; and in doing ihis, however perlV-ct his teeth may be,
' I cannol avoid swallowing «omv of his corn without chewing it.
In the usual way of f(.-i-(ling and treating hortes no atteniiun
Tk pi(i<l to the mail? of (he itoinaoh when Uicy are put to work,
but rr<-()tiiiiitly ihey are [Hit into a chaise, or coach, or ridden oH'
at a quick rate with iheir ^loinaehii loaded with food; the coiimv
quence of lhi« tias often beef) gripes, in 11 am mat ion of t)te bowel.t,
and even sudden death. In the simple and economical mode of
feeditw I recommend, the horse is alwavs ready ibr his work,
dieeMion goes on rapidly, every particle ot nutriment that is con-
tainetl in the food i« extracted by (he stomach without any in-
juriotis exerlion, and h converted into pure blood. But when
iIh? niomiii'h ix loailctl, ii* in the other csim; ('vcti with gt^ocl food,
digeniion is alwayii inqH-rfi-cl, and pcrfoniu-d with difficulty ; and
when the liay, as it often is, is bad, tlie coniteijuence is still worse.
'I1ie stomach, by audi management^ is sure to become in time
more or less diseased; and when tbia liappens, a foundation is
lid for many diseases.
Thus, besides the additional expense of this imprudent method
of feeding, many disorders are cngemlcred by it : and, 1 may
aafcly add, that a horse so fed will not do his work half so welt
as one tluit is fed properly. A )ior«c whose work consists in
travelling a ilage of twenty miles three times a week, or twelve
every day, siiould have one peck of good oats, and never more
titan from eight to twelve jwuiidt of good hay in twcnty-fuur
liout». •
^^^ Hay, as it is often given, is too drj' for mastication, and often
^H^r digestion. For hay tliat lias been suHered (o stand until the
^Hpeed becomes ripe ia very deRcienl in nutriment, and difficult of
^^igestion ; at>d however perfectly it may be maiticaled, will only
serve to oppress the stomach, wiiliout atfordiiig any thing that is
capable of being formed into good chyle. Hay that has been
kept more than one year b<-coniesdry and deficient in nutriment,
■cially when kept in finiall mows, and exposed to the wind.
K) such ttay, tbvn-fore, is given to honin, it requires to bv
lied with water, and given in moderate quantity.
Iiay, at well a* ih« corn, should, if ]MMsible, be divided
1 11^
I _r
' la lUting eight pqtinih u lli« dnity nltowuncc «f rai>J Tor n sulillc-Iiornc',
■loilMCll ia auppOMll to be in h htiilthy kImv, aiitl not ulrvlclied 1>) niiino.
lU foecSnc. In Ms hratthy ttiiic ol' ihr titoiDucli tliu unfielilc ii ulvayH
lerate, buto (or hny nnil for wMi^. Whrii tlie '(umnch lin^ bcxsn nciriLi-
~ to ■ miicli tarjjcr allowance, (he nccctaaiy r«durtioit in the qiiiuiTiI>' of
tboultl lie grsiliial.
THE ECOKOMY or THE STABI^.
(iilo fotir i^ortioDR, and eacli portion, both of oeu and imy, niav
be wettod witli water: tliU will facilitate moitJcaliun aj)ct swoT-
lowtn;;, aiid likewiw digestion ; a Itorse thus fed will ao qnicklj'
digest lliat lie will always W fit for hia labour. The largnt por^
tion, both of oats and liay, alkoiild be f^iven at night ; and the
m-xc in quantity to tliis, rarly in the mominje; the other two
portions in tin- forenoon am) thv nDprnoon, or about twelve and
four. But this mini, of counWi tlopmd u[ion the kind of work
a bonw i« etnployrd in, iLn<l niiat be rivulatc*] accordingly.
Horses that luive Ix-e-n iiccui>toini<d to an tnilimitcd allowance of
bay will oHen rat ilicir litter whoti pnt upon a proper diH, bnl
this niti.it be prevenietl by n ntuziJe. It may ri><]uire a little
time^ when a fltomiich hii!i bt^ii injured in this way, to n-sturc it
again; but, by )>ersisiing in the mode of feeding 1 have recom-
mended, it may almost always l»e aocomplislied. The injury
done to (he stomach, by the common method of feeding, and
cons«-quontly to the animal's beatib or constitution, arises from
the flisicntion of the stomach witli fooil, and the larnc bowels
with excrt-iintit, which im)K-<lcx i-eitpjivition, an<l debilitates the
stomacb, (^nxidcrcd only lut n muieitbir organ ; for digcaiion is
performed in the home, not only by a juice secreted in the
stomach, but also by iniactilar contractions. When tltc sioinach
is debilitated to a certain decree, its secretion, tite gnatric juice,
becomes unhealthy and deficient, aiid is incapable of convertbig
the food into chyme, which is essential before the diyle can bt
cjtraeteit from IL
In a state of nature, ami even in his domesticated state, under
good management, the horse iuis a moderate and a very delicate
Kf^tite, and is very nice in his clioice, both of food and water.
I have seen a large stud of horses that verv kept in tho hif^heet
condition on an allowance of eight pounds of buy in the <lny and
ni^ht, nnd five quartern* of corn. HorM's fo fed will nut drink
much wutL-r, — jH'rhnps from two to four gallons in the day niid
night: while one that has acquired a voracioux and depraved
appetite has been known to drink tbiir paiifuls at a time, tliat
is, from twelve to sixteen galloiu, and cat from thirty to forty
pounds of hay in a flay and nighl. With such a load in the
stomach and bowels, what can be expected but an abridgment
of the animal's life and services lo one third of the perioti to
which they might lutve been extended under pro])er manage-
ntent? and his labour during this sltort period is often inter-
rupted by sickness.
The manner in which liorses arc commonly f«.-d is apt to de-
prave or vitiate ibe appetite, and probably cause M>nw degree of
aridity in the stomncli and bowel*. Tfiis is the only way in
which I can account for ibe (>ro|H>ii!(ity so common in horses to
drink muddy water, and est ntrth or dirt of any kind. Mr.
TREATHSNT OF BOUSES IN SUMMER. 11
Feron, in his " Treatise on Farriery," says, " Horses at camp
are very apt to eat earth or sand ; " and tliat he has " opened
horses that have died from this cause, and found nearly two
buckets of sand in the large bowels, named colon and ceecum."
Whenever this propensi^ is observed in a horse, a small knob
of clay should be mixed with his water ; but this will only afibrd
a temporary relief: the propensity can only be cured by a mild
dose of physic, and a change of diet. Though horses are often
permitted to indulge this propensity because the groom or the
proprietor does not perceive any ill effect immediately resulting
from it; yet it is always, sooner or later, productive of ill conse-
quences. It may, indeed, neutralise some acidity in the stomach
and bowels, caused by immoderate or unwholesome feeding, and
thereby do a little good for some time; but then it is only pro-
tracting a disorder for a short time, which auch feeding is sure,
sooner or later, to bring on. Disorders of this kind may be very
slow in their accession and in their progress, and on that account
may escape notice for a considerable time, and when they do
^ipear are generally referred to some other cause The same
may be observed of disorders produced by pond water impr^-
nated with excrement.
It is a very common opinion that the water an animal prefers
must be the best for him: and were its appetite consulted when
in a state of nature, this rule might be safely followed ; but as
horses are at present mani^ed, it is generally necessary to choose
for them, with r^ard both to food and water.
CHAP. III.
ON THB TREATMENT OF HORSES IN SUMMER.
It is too much the practice in turning horses out in summer
to choose the richest pastures, as if the mtention of giving them
this indulgence were to fatten them. Many inconveniences
result from this practice, and not unfrequently much injuiy is
done to the animal, and great difficulty found in getting him
into working condition when he is taken up. The best time for
turning out a horse is the latter end of May, or b^inning of
June. Hi^ land is better than meadows, especially such as
adjoin rivers, or are otherwise wet. Short sweet pasture should
be chosen ; it is better, indeed, to have it rather bare than abun-
dant, and if there should not be sufficient, some hay and oats
should be given. If the nights are cold he should be taken up
at night, and put into a cool airy box, where he should also be
kept during the day, when the weather is very hot and dry. A
IS
THE KCONOMV OF TRE STABLE.
small field or paddock is better than a large one; and if tl»ere
ia a Gtrcam of irater or a pond in the ticld, and l)i« horse hss
been accustomed to drink immoderately, it should be fenced olT,
and a moderate ijuantiiy ^vcn twice a day with a pail. A
modi-rali' quantity of vetches may be given with advantage in
audi a Kitiiiitioi) ; taking care not to give them m>o» after they
are cut, or with the dew upon (hem. liy keeping a honic in
this manner for a moiilh or »ix weeks in the situation I havu
dettcribed, he will receive all the bene6t to be ex|>ect«d from a
run at grass, and avoid llie inconvenience which so often results
fiom the method commonly pursued. Another imporlant ad-
vantage wi}) be obtained bv il; for when tlie horse is taken up
there will he no difBcully in golting him inio good working
condition in a sltorl time. If there is no convenience for
managing the horse as I hare described, it will be better to soil
him with v<'iclie» or short sweet grass in n large airy box for
aliout u month, than to turn him out in the manner gi-nerally
praclistd. In soiling, only a nioderatt- i|Uiititity of green fix>d
should be given at a time, and a aniall quajitity of hay and oats
should also be allowed.
[The practice of soiling hunters in the stable during the
summer is strongly advocated by Nimrod, the celebrated sport-
ing writer, who forcibly argues, that tlie preservation of con-
dition, and n good slate of the feet, and other l>em-fit«, will moi-e
tlmn repay the incrcawd expt-nse. There can, indeed, be no
doubt that the condition of the litiniirr is better prcM-rvcd in the
wintt^r by not allowing it to bu lo:<t in the summer; nnd it is
easier by this nu'thod to get a fine silky coat in the former
season. Tho only objection to Nimrod's system is the increased
cxi>eusc incurred; iu adoption most, therefore, in great measure,
depend on tlie vulue of the animal. — Ed.J
*
CHAP. IV.
EXERCISE. — TKAtNINfl.
ExRticisE must be considered under two heads: first, that
which is ncci-nsary to preserve the horse in health, and make
him capable of ordinary exertions, or moderate work: secondly,
that which makes him capable of extraordinary exertions, euch
as bunting or racing, bxereise of the last kind is commonly
named (raining, which teim, however, includes also the mode of
feeding necessary to raise the muscular power to thv highesi
degree it is capable of altninmg. The horse was evidently de-
signed for exercUt-, and for the use of man. His vast muscular
EXERCISE. -- TBAIKINO.
18
[wwer. and tiie impenetrable defence atuehed to his tcti, were
certainly not ^iten for hit own use only. If kept in a stable,
witliout I'xercitCi Im mutculnr power tU'cIinea, lits di(^-stivc
orfiaiis become <li»cus»l, and so <lo tlie organs of ri'Wpiration.
The hoof» grow, and there h no ut-ni'; lur the little ihiit may
be worn off, merely by the pressure of hb own weight wlH?n
sl^ndiiig still, is prevented by the shoes. The toe being thus
elongated, the back sinews are often Birained ; the loot becomes
hot and inflamed, its homy covering contmcu ; the Irogs be-
come rotten, and incapable of performing the office for which
ihey were ditigiii-d; in xhort, llic wtiolc body becomes diseased.
Exercixe, then, it is evid^iit, i« e*«-ntii»l to liis lienllli, nnd even
existence ; and every tiart of htx siniciiiri; and economy appear
to deinonsirale that he wa« intended for the service of man.
His powers, however, are limited, and so should his exertions
be : but it is a &ct, which must be regretted by all considerate
petBons. lliat tlie immoderate work in which he is often em-
ployed, so far from being fslutary, or proportionate to his
strength, as undoubtedly it was dcsij^in-d by his Creator that it
stioiild l>e, is injurioiiis and even diTlruciive tn a very consider-
able decree. And what greatly aggravates the mischief is, the
early and premature age at which he is commonly employed.
When a horse is brougtit in for training, after liaving been
kept in the manner de>cribed in the preceding chapter, he
should be fed with hjiy and oats ; and if greedy of water or haVi
or if he appears inclined to cat his litter, he should be limited in
hay and water, and be muzzled the lost thing at night. For
the first week he should have walking and gentle trotting ex-
erciae for an hour or two every morning. 'Iiie stable should l>e
kept clean and cool, llie second week his exercise may be
increased a little, and so may hja oau. Should he appear,
however, rather dull, the membrane of his eyes radicr red or
yellow on lifting the eye-lid, and the dung bard, in small knobs,
and sliining or slimy, it will be adviiiable to bleed modcrutely,
aod give a mild dose of phyiiic, for which lie sliould be piepnrt-d
by giving two or three bran niafiltcs n day fur two days. The
fourth week he may be worked moderately, and if wanted for
hunting, he should be put into a canter or hand-gallop once a
day: and after x\m it will be necessary to increase his pace
twice or three llmt-s n wc^-k, so as to make him sweat frwly;
taking care that hi- i* walked for sonH- lime afterward, that he '
may become railH.-r cool before lie returns to the stable, when
he must be well dressed, fed, and watered, have a good bed
placed tinder him, and he lel^ to bis repose. When a horse has
jxen brought up from rich pasture he is generally loaded with >
Hbt, and n-uuin-s a great deal of walking exercise and carefulj
feeding. He may he trotted gently, however, aAcr ihv second
THK erONOMY OF THE STABLE.
w<>fk, but will n»t be for n tjtiickrr pnce for n moiitb at least.
During lltiit liiitv liv iJimiUl liavc iwu or l)irov dascs of mild
phrtic, «nd wbeii lint inkfii ii|>, iiirb lionM »oRu>tim<-s i^uire
to bo ble^. WItcn a WrM.- in iiui Iiikeii up till Ibe liittor end of
July or bt-ginning of August, li« liaa ofieii a lroubl<?M>i»e coufrh,
wliifli 8oii)eiimpe provH incurable; and sotiieiiiiiea dro|>»ic»l
swellings of iIk- liind Ifgs, wbicb arc not vasily rcmovedi Such
horu-8 give a grrat deal of troublr, and it is a considemble time
hvfoTV iIh'V rail ix got into coudition. It must bo obvious, that
whffi n liurw' ia tukeii in for training, i)h' troatmrnt to \x adopted
iiiuM depend upon the .italv of the lioru-'K condition iit the tiiaCi
and the nmnner in which he liiLii betin previouxly kejn; and,
whethi-r he ia wauled for htiiiiiiig or racing, the principle to ho
kt-]it in view diiriitg tlie procesa ia lo keep liim in a state of
health, aiid cradually raise bis muscular power and wind to that
degree which may br necessary for tlie woik he is to be em-
ployn) in. Thiit can Ih- done only by propiT exercise and
fei-diiig, giving, liowevei, « little mild pliji-ic when necessary.
[Altltougb there is little ln^'slll•ry reipiire<l in geltins horses
into good condition, considenthle eare and coiistniit alleutiuii
are necessBry. To give bulk and strength to the iiuik-W, a
good supply of nutritious food is required ; but in order that this
should not produce su|>er6uous fat as well as flesh, plenty of
exercise and occasional sweating is necessary.
A fine glossy cool is next essential, which can oidy In- ob-
ta!ne<l by heat, assintetl by plenty of grooming and hand- nibbing.
The "lalile must Im- kejn nitK^-i-ntely warm, hut it tntist be borne
in mind that though warm air Is useful. Ibid air is iiijuriotii :
venlilalioii, therefore, must not l»e neglected. The necetury
beat lo produce a fine coal must he principally obtained by an
alHindiinco of clothing. Warm coi^ials an(l stiniulanis will
assbt in jiroducing a glossy coul, though it is l>ctter, if possiUe,
to avoid (hem : iliiii is owing lo the inlimaie sympathy Ix-twecn
the skin and tlw* itotiineh.
Since the former editions of this work were published, ilie
pnictice of clipping and singeing has been introdnced. and, it
must he confessed, with considerable advantage. Where a fine
coal can be oblaJtu-d by the means before mentioned, clipping is
not required ; but many hor^-s will carry a long thick coat in
the winter, in spile of all grooming, and in others, it is impos*
sible 10 he«low the necoiidary attention and expenw required.
In ihL>se cases, by removing the coal with ihc scissors, the horae
ihat before could not travel a mile without sweating, can now
perlbnn a journey with neilher tnconvcnienee nor Iom of con-
dition ; and wIh'H becomes home be can becleimvd in ihecuurw
of an hour, instead of remaining wcl all the night. 'J'wu thing*,
houever, iniMt be borne in mind, 'i'he liorse must have iid-
HANAOIKO i HORSE OK A JOURNEY. 15
ditional clothina; to supply that which is removed, and care
must be taken that he does not stand still when without it, as,
of course, he is more likely to take cold from this cause than
before. The fact is, the horse must have a teniporory coat
instead of a permanent one, one that can be removed when at
work and supplied when at rest.
The advanti^es of clipping are unquestionable; many horses
can thereby be kept in condition throughout the winter that
cannot by any other method.
The chief difference between singeing and clipping is, that
by the former the hair is removed more completely; by the
latter, it can be done sereral times during the season. — Ed.]
niHECnONS FOR HAHAGINO A MORSE DI7R1NG A JOURNEY.
Previously to setting off on a journey the horse should be
brou^t into good condition by being worked out for two hours
every morning, and fed as I have directed in the chapters on
feeding and exercise. The feet should be carefully attended to,
and if they are dry and brittle, the soles should be stopped a few
ilays with cow-dung, then pared rather thin, and for about a
week before he h^ins bis journey the feet should be kept
stopped with tar ointment, which is then much better than clay
or cow-dung, and in the course of a week will considerably im-
prove the quality of the horn, and tend in a considerable degree
to cool the feeL This ointment is of great use, also, about the
beets of the frog and coronet, especially when they are dry and
cracky. A horse had better be new slioed about the same
time ; for when it is done just before he sets off, the shoe may
not fit exactly, or a nail may be driven too close, and the horse
be found lame in consequence during the first or second stage.
The saddle or harness should be carefully examined, as much
inconvenience sometimes arises during a journey from saddle or
harness galls. The most important thing to be attended to
dormg ft journey is the method of feeding, as, by improper
management in this respect, not only great inconvenience and
delay often arise, but sometimes the most serious diseases are
the consequence. The hay should be examined, and the beat that
can be obtained should be given. It is usual not to limit the horse
in hay ; but leave that part of his diet entirely to the discretion
of the osder, who takes care to keep the rack full. If a horse
travels every day from ten to twenty miles, one peck and a half
of com will not be too much for him, provided he has only
about 6 lbs. of hay, and the less hay he has the better; for by
distending the stomach a morbid appetite is produced, whicli
leads a horse to eat and drink much more than is proper for
him, and this often proceeds to a depraved or voracious appetite,
THE ECONOMY OF THE STABLE.
which leaiU tiim to eat even hit Itltcr. While I was in practice
at Exeter, and ntli-nded the horsra of comnH'rciul imvellert, I
met with nuineroiis csnw* of cough, hroken wind, gripe*, Mid
oihiT (liHt^isc!! nr(K)tice<l by lhi« akuik-. So common, inileed, it
tlic praclicL- of givinf^ too nitiolt hny, that inoat horseji huve
a. greater appetite than in the natural healthy state; the ca-
pacity of the stomach having been increased by frequent dis-
tention, and the capacitv of the lungs, or wind, not unirequently
proportionahly diminished. When a horse comes tn from s
Btagc. the feet sliould be picked out and cxuiiiitivd tlw first thing;
and the common pructice of tying up a hone at a stable door,
and wiuliiiif: Iuh legx, is not injurious if the hurai' i% coul imd lias
been wnlked <]uieily in ; but ho tiliould never be taken to a I'irer
to be wimlied. The home ithould never be put in a hot close
stable, however comfortable it may appear, nor is a dark stable
desirable, unless a hoi-sc is very tired, and then, perhaps, ho lies
down moiv readily. When there is no work for a horse, he
should always he Uiken out and have one hour's exercise, at least,
ffwly in the morning; Iw may iIhii have bin full feed without
injury, and be jierfecity fit for tli« work he it wanted for; but
when this cannot be done, e^jKciallv for two or three days, he
should have less eorn and some cold mashes. These few hints
will, perhaps, be acceptable lo the young traveller ; and if any
disease or acctdcni happens during tlie journey, he will find it
tioticcd in this volume.
I
17
PART II.
THE STBDCTURE AND ECONOMY OF THE HORSE.
CHAP. V.
A OCMEftAL VIKW or TIIK rTRUCTVIIE UP THE HOUSE.
[Aniual bodies difTcr ffom iboee of vegetables chiefly in ihe
pooacoaiop of sensation and voluntar)- motion. WliiUt the
vegetable is confined to the soil in which it is located, and
derives its subsistctvcc from ilie surrounding clcmenta, animals
have ihv power of moving from place to place, and of gratifying
the various »cn«ilions with which they arc endowed. The
Structure of animnlif is conu-ciuently, much more complicated
than that of vcgeUtblt-A ; but in proiwriion as an animal is low in
ibe sole of creation — at it approaches u slate of vi-gelable
ffxistencc — we lind its structure more simple^ its sensatioiu
fewer, but its vitality Kreatcr.
In the lione we have n high decree of organization, and
eonsicqiMnilly a vast variety of complex etniclure*.
The body is conipOM-d of »olitU and fluids ; the latter exceed-
ing the former in weight in the pruiwriion of »ix or eight to
one. To the solid*, however, is owin^ the organixation of the
frame; for they surround and contain the fluids. Late ana to>
miau consider that animals are composed of three forms of tissues,
which they have denominated llie Ji/irout, the lamdlar, and the
globular. The two former are exemplified in the structure of
the ttlltilar substance, which composes the greatest portion of
the animal fabric : the fibrous is clmracterisEic of the muscidar
and lisamentous structures: the fibrous, united with the granular,
is exhibited in tlie texture of the glands, and in the medullaiy
substance of the nervous system ; and the globidar is shown in
Ihe composition of the chyle, the blood, and several of the secre-
tions. Tliese several textures being combined together in dif-
ferent proportions, we have the various organs of which the body
is composed.
To give support to the animal frame, aiul afford fixed objects
for the attachment of various parts, \* the u.te of the skeleton,
which is com[)oeed in the horse of m-iirly two hundred bones of
Tarious sizes and slmpes. These bones, in order to admit of
motion, are connected one to another by ineana of strong bands,
called ligaments ; the ends of the bones being constructed in
c
STRIMrreilE AHD eCOHOMt OF THE HOUSC
vitrioii* wnvK, so as lo admit of motion : in nvany wc have ihe
form ofa hiiigei in olWrs that of a ball and socket.
Tlie motion of the limbs Is cffvctnl by mrans of the miucln
or Reah, which, altliou);h to u castial obstrvor appearing a» a
homog^iicoug mass, is n-avlily scpuntbk* into a f^n-akT number of
distinct bodies of vtirioti* forms and »i/i-». Thnv miucln lutvv
commonly two ecpnralc atlaclimc^iita, which nrv usually bono*,
and, by contracting in lcnj;th, ibcy bring Ume |winu of attach*
miritt nearer to ivtch oilier. Mtiscles are cc>tn[>osed of • vut
number of fibres which, oti being acted on hy tivrvoua iiifluenoe,
diinini")) in Imf^th and increase in bulk, aiid tliercby approxi-
mate the dilferent objects to which ihey are atlaclu'd. 'nn-y are
Uliially f(kstencd to buiit^ by means of s strong wliite subslaitce
called tendon, which, however, possesses in itself oo {Mwer of
coiitructiou, but ntei^y communicates the contractile force to
the object lo be acted on. Where the two objects of attachment
are distant from each other, the greater portion of the distance
is occupied by the ten<lons, the advantage of which is obtained
from llieir dimiiii^hed sixe in proportion to their strength : thus
wc find the legs of horses below the knee arc light and slefid«T,
from the absence of muscular and the substitution of tendinous
Eubslaiice. The greater pnrt of (lie musck-s arc voluntary, being
under ilie oonlrol of the mind; but some are involuntary, »ucb
m iho henri and the diaphragm.
Mii*des are extensively Kiipplied with vcxscls of vartoii* kiiitb)
such ns arteries fur their nourinhmenl, and veins for tlie return
of the blood after this purpose is effected. There are likewise
nerves, which not only furnish sensation, bulaUocommunicalv to
llieni the mandates of llic will.
These nerves proceed wthcr from the bruin or Npinal cord,
which, therefore, may bv considt'n-<l as the foitniuin of si 'n sal ton.
and the ixvidenco of the mind; and thus K-ntatioii h first sent
from the extremities to the brain by the nerves, and thou by
another set of nerves the will is conveyed to the muscles.
The brain is a soft pulpy sulMtanee contuine<l within the heiwl,
and the spinal cord is somewhat Kimilar in appearance, ami
extends from the brain to die tail, through a hole in the bones
which form the spinal colunm.
The body b dividixl into two principal cavities the ehvsl M>d
the abdomen; and sepamte<l by a muscular partition called i)»e
diapliragm. The former contains tlie lungs and heart, whose
uses are to purify and dttlribute ilie blood by nvenns of respiration
and the circulation; and tttc latter contains ttie stomach and
bowels, in which the functions of digestion are carried on, besides
several important glands, such as the liver, kidivey, and jMiiereas,
logelher with other supplemeniary parts.
'I'lie food having been well triltu-ated by tlic teeth, and mixed
8TRUCTDBE AND COONOirY OF THR HOUSE.
19
vitli a Bofficicnt quantity of saliva, nhtcK is cliiefljr secreted bj' l\w
parotid gU»cts at tli« root of the ear, U (lieii conTeynl into the
stonuich by means of a long muscular tube which powes tbnougli
the cavity of the chest. In tlie stomach the food is acted on
by a peculiar 6uid called the gastric juice, and is then passed
into ine small intestin<fi, where the chymo, as lite food is then
callcil, becomt^ mixed with the bile, a yellow fluid secreted by
ihc liver. Itoth ihc small and large intestines are fastened to
the n>ine by nieatis of a Kirong membrane called (he metvntPry,
which, bc«ide« veins and ariones, arc furnished with a vast
nitmb<-r of xmall vm«cU mllod Inctenls. These lactealsopcn into
the- inicRtinnt, and llK-re absorb the nutritions part of the food,
which in u white milky fluid, liw chyle, and convey it to a voxwl
rviiiiing along the course of the sjiine, which eui[nie» iiielf near
ihc In-art into the circulatory system. Thus by llw-se mwn* the
blood l><;con>es euriclKd wiih nutriment, and is thus enabled to
supply l)»e coiiMxnt waste the system tt continually underftoinj^.
'file blood being furnished with nutriment, requires to be
purified before it is fit for cireulniioit : for this purpose it pusses
into tl>e riglit side of the heart, by ihv miucular contraction of
which it is sent to the lungs, whm it become* exposed to the
nciiun of the atmosphere, hy which it is changed from a dark to
a light re<) colour, and being freed from impurities, it enter* the
left aide oftlie licwt, and from lltence is H-nt, by means of the
arteries, lo all parts of the body, supplying every part with
nourisliment, and also tlie various glsiuU of the bwly not only
with their own proper nourish motit, hut with materiel for the
secretion of their jieculiar fluid-i. 'I'lms, the salivary glands
separate tite Koliva from the blood; the pancreas a juice some-
what similar; tlie testicles the semeu ; and the kidneys the
urine. Each gland separates iu peculiar fluid and no other.
The urine, ln-itig WTreied by the kidneys, is conveyed by means
of two small hui long lube^ into the hliidder, whence it is ex-
creted from tlH> l>ody.
Tl)« liver is nourinhcd by the arteries, but separates the bile
from the dark impure blood, which is conveyed to it by a targe
Tein.
The contents of the Iniwels are pasied onwards by the influence
of their peciilinr action, and having hud the nutritious part ex-
tracted, are excreini from the body geiieriilly in a solid lorm.
'llie ctUuhir membrane is a vei'y eluiiiic sultsiance, and enters
largely into tlH> compovitiou of the body j it connects the various
glands together; funns frequently a eoverinj! for the muscles as
well as fur various vcs.selis ond exiits in the form of cells, which
have communiciiiiflu with ea';h other.
'Hie ailij'Ofe meinhr»iie is found in various parts of the body,
id, inde«l, secretes the fat, which is deposited in a liquid form
c 2
STBircrunc and xcohohv of thr hoisb.
and in xmatl circtiniM:rilH><) bag«. Ttie fat llii» contained often
perfoniiii ilio important office uf nfTonling n cuiliiou for paru
tlint would oilKTvriitc lie vxpo»e<l to injury; lliiiswe fin<t tliat tlic
tockri of tli<- eye it ikbundaiitly furniftlied with ttib matertn).
Tlteio lire two other important nienibranes which are exten-
sively Touiid in aniinid lx>dif£>; they are the serous and mucous
membranes. Wlienever aii internal part has an externa) oneo-
ing, we find thai it is rurnished wiili a miicoiu nwmbranf, which
secretes miieus for iia protection ; but when ilie cavity bos tio
external opening, that it is lined with a serous membranev
wliicli secretes a thin watery fluid to lubricate the parts, and
pn-serre (hem from injury by friction. Thus from the entrance
of the mouth and nostrils to the anus, throuftbout the whole in-
tcritnl surface of the bowett, a mucous membrane exists, by which
the fluid i« secreted, the nature of which gives a name lo Uk
membrnne, and which protects it from injury ^tbcr by t]>c
exteniul uir, or by the contents of the boweU. Jii like manner,
we find the bladder and urinarj' organs Mmilurly Hn<-d.
On the other hand, the cavity of the elH'»t and tlie MbtlonioD,
witli their contcntt, (Ui well as the intcnud unrface of bloutl>
vessels, arc furnislied with a trraiu inembmne, which secretes *
watery vapour.
These difrerviit membranes are very fn-qnemiy the seat of
disease, and are siiibject lo Mvere and dangeront inllnmriiatioRS.
The adniimhie inunner in which the various orgiUH arc pocked
away in ilieir proper cavities is worthy uf ]Mkr(icular noticv.
'Itic lungs and tho lieurt are so adapted to the shape of tbcr
cltc»t, that there is iit no time iiuy vacant spot; and the more
numerous contenis of the bowels are so disposed, Uuti while each
has sufficient freedom for ihc proi)er perforutance of its functions,
yet tlK' whole arc jimked away wiili the inoM economical care : —
theiv is no void to be found.
From this cursory view of the matter, it will be aeen how
numerous and compjientcd are the structures which compose
tile frame of an animnj, and yet how admirably they are com-
bined together and Imrmoiiiously agree. — Ed.]
CHAP. VI.
ON THE SKELETOIf.
[The skeleton of antrnal bodies is fomieil of bone, a subatatice
possessing flrmncss and stability for tlie aitaehinent of muscles,
ttlio protection of the vital organs, and the supjmrt of the soAer
parts. It is composed of animal matter and earthy salts ; the
Till SKZLETOS. 31
former comisiing of rariiln^. gclntrnp, and f&t or marrow, and
the Inttcr of pJionpliaii- ol' linio in considcrablo proportion, a lesaer
qunnlity of cnrboiiair of lime, and a small portion of otl>crr salts.
The cwlitage of Uonw w formcti before tlio cartliy matter, and
eonctitutes i» bet the nidun in which tl)i> latK^r ii dppmitcd.
Bonn can be freed from their earthy [wrtion by immrrGion in
an acid, by which process tl>e gt-litiine i-t alio diiuolr<-d, aiid piiro
cartilage a M\, which is elastic, but reuln^ the ori}{inal ligurv of
the bone. On the otbei' hand, bones by exposure to a great
beat are deprived of the animal substances, and the earthy part
remains.
The use of the marrow is more particularly to prevent the too
great dryness and brittleness of bones. To the animal portion
of llieir composition arc they, tliereforr, indebted for their shape
and wliat ilegix-r of elasticity they possctt, and from (he earthy
portion they derive the important purposes of *trmglh and sta-
bility. Thiw arc thi-sc different demciitK combined tog^ther^
atul by an union of their different principU-it form n *ub*tance
admirably adapted for afiitrding full scope for the piny of the
various offfans of life, protecting at the same time the vital ports
ffx>m external injurv, admitting and assisting the |mwcrH of
locomotion, and, in fine, forming a secure fabric for the beiiuiiful
building of animal frames. Every bone is covered by a mem-
brane called the peri<»teum, which also lines the internal ca-
rities, and secretes the marrow : its use is to circumscribe (be
(brm of bones, and protect them by ite tenseness, as well as to
affiird the medium whereby they arc furnished with their vessels.
The sitapc of particular bones intimately corresponds to ibe
purpose for wliicb they are Jntenihti : where for the office of pro-
tection, we lind ihein flat, and where for the purpose of motion,
lontj and cylindrical, lu in theexireinitio^ in the construct ion of
tlicnlcull tliernost perfect mccliani^m i« displayed. The fu'sl object
to be obtained it lite protection of the brain from the accidents
to which, from the peculiarities of animals, it is mostly exposed.
For this purpose the skull consists of two tables or plates; the
outer thick and tough, the inner hard and brittle : the former, by
yielding in a measure to resistance, diminishes concussion, wbikt
the latter by its hardness prevents sharp bodies from )H'netrating
to the brain. Now, if these (wo plates were reverwd, (Ih- Itriltie
would not only be tn great danger of fracture, but would also
vibrate considerably; and the injurious effect of this vibration
may well be conceived when we are told that, even with the pre-
sent wUc precaution, it orieii occasions greater mJachief than the
most aerious fractures. * Itetween the skull and the brain are
inteqMted several membranes, which also assist materially in
preventing vibration, just as a piece of parchment would inside «
rummer glass. The skull is composed in animals of upwards of
c a
HTRUCrrRE ASO ECONOMY OF THE BORSE.
thirty bones, whicli are coniK'Cied toaeil>er by a dovctailwl
HiUiro. It used lo bv coniiden-tl lliat ilte object of ihis exteti-
4 *
a The fVantal boon.
i The pnricUl boDOh
< Thv oorlpiul iKino.
d Tlie (cmporal bollM.
t The mulftt boQM.
/ Tlio »ipi<rl<ir mftdUuy bonM-
p Tlio niMal lioiiw.
A The inferior tnaiilUry licnM.
i The p>Hlciio7 msiiJIar; liona.
1 Tlie atliu, or 6m icrlelin.
I Tho ilciiuis, or fceond ledebta.
m 'Vho other Bv« rerltbr^
• an Tlio donol rcrltbrji.
a llii) lumbar Turtcbne.
p TliB luenil boil*.
f Tli« MU otwoj^^ih or bu'ira of iht
uii.
p r Tlic haunch bones, or boata of
■lie polvih
J ( Th* rib*.
t Tlw ilORiuin, or brcwt bann.
■ Th« KMfiul*. nr blaiU bone
* Tlio bumenis. or (bmilder bone.
■I The radiuv or (ore mna.
X Th* (iliM, fonnlng tbe dbiiw.
f The bono of Ihc nrpui, or knaa.
> The mcUnriiiit. or ninnon bona.
1 T)w*n]«lliTi«(warp«lor)ipliiitbaiMwl
t The umniDid bonci at (hg ba«k i ^
Ihc fi'duck Jtiint
3 Tlic oa inll^iiginli, or \aTgt paMMS.
4 Tiur iM enroll*, or amall |inl«fn.
5 'I'ln ox iMtdis or coffin bomk
The navicular bone m UMam,
G tlio fiemur, or (high bona.
T Tlio paUlla, or kaer-puw alluated in
rtoiil of Ihc (UHa Jolul.
8 'llw tibia, or left bunv^
9 Tilt oa ralris forming th« l>aiDl of
Iho hock.
10 Tbcaitralagui, the priuvipal bone ol
the buck joint.
11 Tlio uniall Ihium of ihc book, th«
Mvit of vparin.
19 Thv ineUtanu*. or fsniiuii lione,
14 The (moll mctalarut or "iiliiil bono,
Tlio other bonet of (lie hind leg
eormfKnid wilh ihosc at iIm fet*
*xtr«Dilly.
Bive division of the bones was (he convenience of otwfiication,
which alvrav* COiiiiiiertces M the eenlre, but a nioi^ extfiided
view lias discovcroJ other witv ptirposcE; for not only ia ttio
' dovvtaiieil sutorc the Rtruiijft^t nioile of union, but it U also tbe
best adupled lor M-curing the bntiii from injury, as it yields con-
THE 8KELETOK.
23
€
tAdfjMy to lti« iinprcssion receiwd, and lliiw wards off" hoih
concitMioii bikI vibration. There is an rxoeiition, liouevcr, to
lltix UHijil conncctioi) in ihc temporal bones wliicli form the aides
of tliu cruiijLl cavity, and wliicli are connected to lite other bones
by what it termed ihvsfjiuiniotis suture — one bone, in fact, simply
orerlapa anolhrr. Thi* union is inferior in strength to llie
formi^r; but nature hiu here anotlK-r office to perrorm, and the
rmson of ihi* vxcejition will at once bo comprehi-niled on
examining the »kiill. If a contiderablc blow bo reet-ived on the
upix^r [Mirtion of the arcli, iw (iflin are tin- parts nw^t likely to
give way ; and to guard n^aioHt this conseqiK-nce, tht-KHf/rrbono
overlaps tlte up[>er, and ihu» act» like the tit^b<-am of an arch in
keeping the pariit together. Tliis dovetailed suture doo> tiot
connect the bones ot tlie inner table; for though a carpenter
might find thU mode of union serviceable in joining the sltte^i of
a wooden box, a workman would by no means find it auplicablu
in connecting together brittle siibiiances, Bs it would be ex>
emely liable to chip off at tlie edge*.
'Flic Crania/ cavity, or that part which contains the br»iit, is
lOt more tlian a fourth the size of the other parts of the »kutl,
iIk- remaining portions being dwoted to mafticalion and smelling.
Thcro arc no leas than nine bones which enter into the conijio-
■ilioii of the cranium. The (hvj t'rontai bones form the anterior
part, usually called the rorcliead ; but the internal plate of these
bone* separates and recedes from the extcrtial plate so as to form
a cuviiy between them, which is cnlled the frontal sinus, and \b
divided by n u'ptum or ridge of bone bclwi-en lliem : the inter-
nal itlatc fonns a coverini; for the anterior lobe of the cerebrum.
'File two I'arirtal bones are iiitimted at the iip|>er and middle
IrlB of the cranium, and cover the middle lobes of the cere-
iruin, to wliich their internal part closely corresponds. These
lies become closelv united after the second or ttiird year.
'Ilie OeripitaJ, a smgle bone of great strength, ts found at the
,ck and base of the cranium. Its internal eurlace covers the
cerebellum, and on a strong process at the hose the medulla
oblongata rests. The external surface of this bone is extremely
irregular. At its upper part wc find a crest or iidge of Iwim-,
to which the cervical ligament w altacheil, iii« well a:* Kevcral
muscles of the iKck. Ueluw this is llic occipiul bote, through
which the spinal cord, ns well as some nerves and oii artery,
make their exit from the brain. On each side of this hole the
Ixnie it smooth and rounded, for the purpose of articulating wiili
tl»e atlas, the (irat bone of the neck; besides which there are
several curious processes for the attachment of nuiscles. In the
foal this bone may be separated into ibur pieces.
The Temporal bones, forming the sides of the cranium, are
composed of two parts, the squamous and iheiwlrouK. Though in
L' 4
STRUCTtniE .INn ECONOHT Of THE RORSC.
man these pieces are united, yet in the hone ihey ore dUtinct
from each other. Tlic ttiuamoiu portion in extentnllv a convex
plate, with a Itooked pi-ojection nrising from it; Uits proocM
OBsiste in forming the zvfjomatic arch. 'Hie Mjtiamous portion
aflbnls at the posterior part A thallow eav'»y tor tht- articulation
of the lower jaw bono. 'r]ii» g1en«i<l cavity, as it is termed, ii
mueh dcqier in canuvorona nniinid^ who require to open their
jaws more extensively; and an inttpection of this portion of the
skeleton alone will enable the comparative anatomist to decide
to what order tlie aninml mi^ht have belonged. In herbivorous
nice* a grinding luieral motion of rhe jnws onlv is required, and,
necordiiigly, the nriiculation is wide and shallow. The lyco-
mutir arch, too, is much more arched in ilie carnivora, in order
to nfibrd nwre room for tlie development of tlic temporal muscle
which governs the jaws, than ia required for the more moderate
exertions of herbivorous animaU.
ThejMlTOTM portion of (lie temporal bone, so called rrocn ita
rocky nature, if apparently a solid convex figure. It contain^
however, the organ of hearing, and has on )t» internal mrboe
orifices for tlie passage of the auditory nprvo, ami on theexlertwil
part we fin<i a larger orifice for the pniuage of Mund. The
internal struciure of this lione is n* bi-aniiful as it is curious;
poasm.iing vt^lihult's and canals for tlie ramification of the nerve,
and u singular cavity having a communication with the mouth,
in which are discovered four diminutive bones, with their corre-
sponding muscles, which serve the purpose of projiagating and
modifying the sound.
The inferior and middle parts of the cnuiium are formed
principally by the Sphrtwiil, a hone which somewhat resembles a
bird in flight, having a body and four prooeeaee, two of which
are called tlic wings, and two the legs. This bone support* the
middle lobe* of iti« cerebrum, and presents several Iwles and
denretsioiu for the passage of nervc».
I'he cranial cavity is separated from the nonal by (he Ethmoid
bone, which also somewhat resembles a bird in flight, but with-
out legs, and is situated in front of tlie Itone la^t described. It
supports the anterior lobes of the cerebrum, and has holes for
the exit of the olfactory nerves: and on its internal and inferior
surface it funus cavities, called the ethmoidal sinuses, which are
Bcparaii-4) by a bony septum from each other, and are perforated
by A va»t nimiber of small holes for the passage of the olfactory
nerves to the na-tal cavities.
Such is a very brief, and cuiwcqucntly imperfect di-scriplion, of
tlic boni-s comiKtsing the l>«iin-ea»e, whicli are arrangi-d in a
form at once the moM compact and moAt durable; sn that the
noblest bridge which Bpnns our rivi*i-s^ or the finest dome tlwi
jturmountB our cathedrals, is inferior to the inechanisin displayed
iu the simple construction of the skull.
THE SKSLETOS.
25
Tho Fncf- occMpic* in horse* muclt tlic largest portion of ilie
skull, which is m-cetsnrv more ]innicul«rly lo tiffbrd sufficient
room for llw di-vrlopment of iIm- molar tovth. The superior and
anterior part of the focu is occupied hy tlw nasal bonn, which
thus form the roof of lite mouO), and the cvr'ixy of tho nose.
These Iwn^'s are somewhat conical in sha[>e, the base being
abovf, front whence the)' taper irr^ularly to a point below.
'Hie Suptvior MiirUliin/ bonea form iht- greater pciriinn of the
&ice, exieiHling the whole length of the molar teeth, for which
iliese bones form saiiable sockets, and tnterallv, from the molar
leelh to the nasal bones. Within ihe cavity of the mouth iliese
bonea form (he roof of the palate, being united together in the
middle bv a suture. They also form (he greater portion of the
nasal cavny, thus having three surfaces, the facial, the nasal, and
thepalaiine.
TIm! Antrrior or Inferior Maxiihr^ bones arc singular, inas-
much as ilM-y are wanting in the human subject. They com-
mence in tlw angle foritH'<l by tlic separation of the nasal from
the maxillary bones, wlience they «xtefHl downwiirds, connected
lo the Inner Irancs, hut reaching much beyonil them ; they then
become larger an<l «tronK«r, so as lo ailbni deep and swure
sockets for the upper incisor teeth.
The Mular boneit are situa(e<] on llie sides of the face, above
t)>e large maxillary bones ; they arc somewliat singular, and very
irregular in shape, a pan being situated within ilw orbit of lh«
eye. They form n<vii'ly half ihe border of ihe orbit; ainl ihcir
upper part assists in lorniiiig the zygomaiic arch, from whence a
ridge of bone, called the xy^omaiic ^pine, is continued downwards,
not only to the extent of thi^e bones, but also to that of two
inches of iIk superior maxillary bones.
The Laejir^mal bones, so called because llie lachrymal duct
for the conveyance of the snpei-fluous tears to the nostrils passes
through ihem. is situated about half within and half witltout the
orbit, the latter portion being between the malar and the nasal
bone*.
The Palate bones are situated al ihe biue of the cranium, and
at tlic upjjer part of the palaline surface of the superior maxillary
bonn. rhey jointly fonn the concave or semi-oval bord<T,
which si^paratrs the cavity of ihe nostrlU from ihnt of the month,
A simill [Kirtion of the bones as.iisia in forming ihe hack pari of
the orbit.
The four TttrhinaUd hones are situated within the cavity of
the nMtrils, ihe two superior being attached to the nasal, and
the two inferior to the maxillary bones. They arc oblong,
porous, and extremely tjiin, and rolled up somewhat like a
turltan. By this conlbrmation their surfaces are greatly ex-
tended for the spreading out of the olfactory nerves.
STRVcrvnr. ahd econout op the rorbe.
TUe Vom^ U a long llitn bone, situated at the 6oor of ilie
noMrils, and ruDning througlioul thfir Icnsth; iu upper or
aiiU'rior (Hirt t'ornis a deeg) groove, into wiiicli the cartita^inous
•epiuiii of llie iioalrili is closely imbedded, by which these arc
separated into two distinct cavities.
Tht" Itjirior ^LtyiHar^, or lower jaw bone, is formed of two
symmetrical halves, united at the inferior part bv cartilage in
the young subject, but by bone in tho adult. This united por- |
tion forms deep and strons sockets for the inferior inci»or tccih, '
and posterior to tliU for tl»c titsks; abovi- ihU, each half sepa-
rate^ and forms the bars of the mouth, a« the Kjxice bctweeti the
incii^or and the molar teeth is termed ; the honv then bi-cnme«
gniduaUy wider and deeper, so as to lorm iIk" socket* for the
inferior molar tec-tli ; iiflvr which it dimintslKA in siw, and ter-
minates in rounded extreniities wliieh correspond to ll>e glenoid
cavity in the temporal bone before di-scribed, thus forming the
maxillary joint.
The bone^ which we have nu^ntioned a.i composing the face
are none of them solid in their structure: but in oi-der iliat the
requisite amount of surface nhould exist witlioul too great weight,
ihey are moat of tlieia hollow; and tliua various sinuses are
formed, which are called after the bones in which they are found.
First we have t\w frontal timtitx, which are situated between llie
orbits; they are triangular in shape, tlieir flat surface beinc
above, and two irregular ones below: ihey itave inferiorly blittd
terminations, which are called the nasal sinuses, being in tira
nasal bones; and ihey comniutiieiile with the maxillary sinuses,
which are situated sotnenhal below and in front oftliem.
The MatiUary are the Urgest of the sinuses of the liead, ex-
tremely irregular in shape, and are formed principally by the
superior ma>ullBry bones : their upper part is separated from the
orbit by tlic lachrymal and malar bones, which form their supe-
rior partu; their lower extremity is blind, Inil above this there
is an o[)Ciiing into ihe chamber of the noKlrils, besides the com-
munication before K|)oken of with the frontal sinus.
'lliere are oilier ntnaJI sinuse*, culled the SphmoidaU i)>e EUi-
utoidalt and the Pataliue, being found within tlie iKme^t after
which tltey are callei). The fnst of these ik a single siniiv, and
llie last is situated between the palatine and the maxillary bonen.
These singular cavities are not found in the young subject,
but are gradually formed as the sise of the head increases : one
important purpose which ihev therefore serve is, to increase the
size of the head, without adding to iu gravity. 'I~hese sinuses
are often the seat of disease in f^anders, when they often contain
matter, and are iti an ulceraleil state.
'J'he manner in which the heati is connieied to the body is
ver^ reinarkable, and dcniaii(l» particular coutidcrutioii. In
I
THE SKELETON.
87
' man it rests upon ihr spine, nicely balanced, as on a pivot ; but
th« larger beads of nuadrupeds are suspended from llie body.
Now if wc consider the immense welgbi of the head of the horsef
which is much increwKnl from being placed at the exiremity of a
lever, we cannot fail to be convinced of the prodigious power
necessary to support tt. If this weight were supported by n)U»-
I cuJar power, there would be a very considerable consumption of
vital energy; but to save the cxhamlion this would produce^
there is a large iiuaimrtit mitig from the occiput, attached to tlio
booes of the nrck and tlw sjiineH of the )>ack, which, being
rielaslie, admits the motions of the lictul, aiul supports it at atl
timcA. eveii when the mii*clp» are ui a dormntit slate. 'I'his
ligament U known at llie liganieutum colli, or, commonly, on the
[ pack wax.
We must now proceed to deaeribe the >pine and chent. 'llie
epiiud column Itaa three important oflici-s to [lerfonn: it h the
great Iwnd of union tH^itvccn all |iaris of the body ; it forms a lul>e
for the |>assage of tlie spinal marrow, a part a.i iniportant as the
brain itself; and, lastly, it is in animals the fixed object from
whence the bead is suspended. If the protection of ilie spinal
marrow were the only object to be effected, it would have oeeti
simply a strong Imny tube: but whilst it potaesses great strength
for this purpc»e, eoniiderable flexibility is also required, and
accordingly it is composed of a multitude of bones, more or less
in different animals, according to their wants and habits. The
feline races rctjuirc tlte utmost degree of elasticity, in order to
climb up and spring from eminences, and seixe their prey with
facility ; but if these animals eould be tamed sufficiently to make
iliem Dear burdens or go in bArness, they could render us but
little st-rvicc in tliis new capacity, from the want of *lrength and
stability in the xpiiinl cohinu). Rut in herbivuroux animaU,
which are required to dmw or «ii»iiiin ln-avy weights, strength is
the princi|>al object, and accordingly we find they have much
It^ flexibility than carnivorou.i aiiinialf: this liability it the
diittinguiibing feature of the whole skeleton, but niorv [larticu-
larly of the spinal column of the horse.
The A'«A of the horse is composed of seven bones, the two
first of which will more parlicuiarly demand our attention, as
they essentially differ from the others in their aspect and their
tMC. The 6r»l is called the a/ias, from the circumstance of tts
sustaining ll)c bead, as it dw-s in man, although in the horse the
bead is rather sunjjended fritm it. 'I'he second i« allied the
dtntatot from having a tooth-like practtw on its front pan.
The alias has concavities on its anterior part, which ariiculale
with two smooih condyles or prominences on the occipital, the
Intkt bone of tlie skull; this joint is called into requisition in
bending ilie bead backwards and forwards, and particularly in
STRUCmilK AKD ECOKOMT or THE liniise.
tlie act or nodding; but it scarcely ndmits of any Uterel motion,
OS n double movement^ and loo great flexibililv, would luivp en-
dangered the s«tety of the spinal marrow, which noMn from ilio
occipiist hole tliroiijih lliia bone. However, to admit lite nccee-
aary horixoninl motion reotiired by the animal, die secomi vcr>
tebra is called into requiBilion, and ilf odontoid proct^ii fits into
a cavity in the under and posterior surface of the nilil*, And
forms a siifGcieni resemblance to a ball and socket jatnt to allow
confidvrable laternl motion. We cannot sufficiently admire tlie
beautiful mechanism by which ih<-»c important movements arc
safely secured ; the second joint would have been as inapplicublo
for the uses of llie first a* tbe first would Iw for that of the
second; for if the second juint ;i(lmitte(l vertical motion, tbe
consequence would be ihiil the looth-liki- proccm would be forced
against the spinal marrow every time the head was bent for-
wards; but by the actual airaciure, the joint beinj; undemcntb the
spiiml cord, either a rotatory or a vertical motion eim be safely
enjoyed.
The remaining bones of tlie neck are very similar to each
other, their ehape being very singular and irregular. They
have each a large hole running through them, for the passage of
the spinal marrow ; a ridge on tbe upper part for the attachment
of the cervical ligament; processes on the side for the inser-
tion of tbe powerful muscles that move tbe bead and neck; antall
foi^mina or holes, for the pti^sa^c of ncrrrs and blood-vessels;
and on the anterior part a round head, which is received into a
cavity in the back part of the bone in front of it ; also processes
or legs which proceed from the front part of each bone, and
meet and correspond with similar processes on the back part of
each bone. These bones, however, never actually touch eacli
other, fur if they did there wotild be too much concussion ; but
between every two bones, and exieniling throughout the whole
Sine, there is interposed a gristly substance, enclosetl in aa
istic body, which yields and recoils like an air cu»liinn. In
the human subject this power of dilatation exiits in a very con>
sidemble degree, owing to which men will often measure mora
in the morning tlian in the evening after their daily toil is com*
pi I- led.
Though in horses this power of dilatation is not possessed in
an equivalent ticgree, yet ilie elastic intervertebral substance
greatfy contributes to the elasticity of titc frame. Witli tlie
seven bones of lite neck the spine is composed of no less titan
tliirty separate piMOs, which are dislinguishe<l a« iIh* dorsal, or
vertcbrso of iIk- back, and tbe lumbar, or those of the toins, AH
these bones Itave a hole through their bodies for the passage of
the spinal cord. 'I1»e thrtal vertcbrie, eiglileen in numberi
are connected witli eocli cMher in a manner similar lo those of
I
The 8KELF.TOK.
29
Itbe neclc. They haw on ihe upper sur&ce long processes, whicb
[proceed upwsrds and Iwckwaraa, furming the witlters ; tliese
FprtxYsees graduallv increase in length from ihe first to the fifth*,
[vbcn the)- gradually decrease to Uie twelfth or thirleenUi, and
[then continue t)>e same. Kacli dorsal vertebra is connected,
[bv means of a joint, with two ribe, of which there are unually
leigbteen pairs in the hor»!.
The lumbar vcrtehnr arc five, and someiimes six, in number,
Itnti diflbr from th«- otiier vertebnc from having much longer
rlaleral proccfses ; bnt iheir spinous processes are somewhat
Drter than tlmsc of the back. The latiTal processes serve* in
[some measure, to siipplv ilic absence of tliv riM, giving support
Ton their tipfM'r Kiirfuce« fur ibc strong muscles of the loins, and
[below forming a roof fur the protection of the abdominal vitccra.
|W')»en we scv a horse witli a very light carcass these transverse
processe* Rre ustully very short.
These bones compose the spine, but ttte spinal cord is con-
iniied through the tacntm or rump-bone, which, in the young
abject, is coit)po%od of five separate pieces, like the lun)bar ver-
ttebrsc^ but in the ndult is consolidated into one bone, and
[fcrms a roof for the pelvt*, and a protection for iu conlenu. At
[the extremity of the t»crum tltc bones of the tail, about inghleea
I in nuntber, called tli« otsa cocc^gis, begin. 'I1tc sucrum is
^•lightly arched, fo n* to iifi'ord greater room below, and iti
l>inou* processes (lifiVr from tltose of the loins in sloping in on
pposite direciion.
The Pehit, *o called from iu resemblance to a basin, is ait
rgular cavity which contains the urinary and genital organs,
is formed by the sacrum and Uie tma eocciftjit a)>ove, and the
[two ana innaminata, or lutunch bones, on eaeti side and l)elow.
In tlie (betut this bone ii com|>o»ed of three separate pieces, the
Hm, llie itehium, and the pubn. The ileum is the largest
jvision, forming tltc upjHT and anterior part of the bone, and
vbiblc projections in the horse, the liipa, at tlie sides, and
I'tiie pan above dose to tlie sacrum, which projects so much in
-rumped horses, as they are called ; the i^ichium is the part
I vhich projects backwards, and the pubes the portion whicb joins
~ riorly the corresponding part on the odier side, the union
ling the s^-mphysis pubis. All these separate pieces unite in
[ibrTning the socket into whicb the fii-st bone of the hind cx-
[tremily fits, thus composing the hip joint.
The Bow* rfthe Fore listrfmity.
A superficial observer would be apt to imagine that animals
[difler from each olber, and from man, and from birds, in
* TliNe booe* ore often dUeasccI in lUluIout withers.
30
STRUCTUHR AND FCOKOMV OP THE BORBR.
no respect to niiieK a> in tlib >ha[)<>, the •Iructurp, and bony
conformiitioii nf the fore cxirHmiiy; and certainly when we
abGcrv4' llie great leiif^h of it in »omc Htiiniale. and iu ex-
trenio fthortiiesii in other*, scarcel)' projpciinp from ihc body, in
M>nie o)i|Kind(-d out liim the fonn ot tho human hand, in others
cou*oli(hiti-d and protected t>y a horny ca^e, we cannot wonder
at inch an idea being entertained. 11»e aiiatomist, however,
lind.t tiiat this diversity ia much greater in appearance than in
reality ; indeed, in all warm-blooded animals uicre is a general
resemblance, all Itaving Tour puis in common, vis. the shoulder,
the arm, the foi'earm, and the metacarpus, or s)uink. The most
striking variety obtains in the mode of connection with tt>e body.
Whenevvr the fore extremity is not used for tho |iHr]K>*c- of s\a-
laining the body or for locomotion, but tor holding and retaining
objectH) as in man and in monkeys, or for that of flying, as jn
birds — where, in short, a degree of rotnlory motion is required,
the connection is bony, by means of the clavicle, or collar>bonc.
But in animals in whom the weight of the bodv is to be au^
tained by the fore extremities, such a connection would be inad-
missible, and would expose the body continually to concussions
and fraciurce. In moBt cinadrniKxI^, therefore, the connection is
by means of muscle or flesh ; the body is in fact suspended, like
a carriage on springs, between the two sJioulder- blades. This
it ia which in great tncnsure gives that springine&s to the motions
of the horse so delightful to iIh^ rider, wbich enables him to alight
from the higlu-sc leaps with safety to himself, and to l)ear his
mai>ter barmlesi over a brook or ditcit nine yards wide. To
uccomplt^h this desirable lacully of sustaining great burdens
without concussion, free motion is admitted in a backward and
forwar<l, but scarcely any in a lateral direction. In dog* and
cau a much greater degree of lulenil motion is possessed, but
the connection with the body k considerably weaker, and llie
power of sustaining much weight ix not possessed.
All animals have a Scnpitla, or shoulder-blade, which in the
horse is a flat triangular bone, having its exttrrnal surface divided
vertically by a ridge, which ik-rve« as u protection and an ob_^t
of attachment fur muoelcs. This bone is flat, in order to aflbrd
greater space for connection with (be body, but its breadth
diminishes towards the lower piirt, for the purpose of forming the
shoulder joint.
The JiumfTus, tlic next bone, is rounded at its upper part*
and is received into a cavity at the end of the scapula, wbich is
extremely shallow in most animnli^, ns there is but little danger
ofdislocaiion when the motion of the limb» iit limited to two direc-
tions. In man the motion uf the joint i« much more extensive;
and although the cavity is considerably <1iHi>er in htm, ret dis*
location freqiicnlly takes place. The humerus is a cybndrical
*
TnC 9CCLKT0N.
31
[iwno, poBKwnf; great Rtrrn|zt)i ; mict we sliall alvray* Rnd that
[ttltrn KinMiglli is cUii-fly r4-c|(iir«d, » cylinder U tlio fvvoiiritc form.
In addition t» lliit, in common with moat of ilic b<mc« of ihe
lex(tx.'mitic«, lli« middle Lh hollow, and c-ontaiiiH tite marrow, a
[■Very light fatly mibsiaiic*', deposiled in cancelli or bony cells.
[Th« reason of ttii* conformation U, that a certain bulk u itrccs-
[sary for tliv Aliachinciii of muscles, and the utmott degree of
trcnjfth ia required with the least quantity of mittter and a
)iniini»Ued wei$;ht, which piiritoses are eflected by rcniovinf; the
[mairrijil lu it were from the centre, and accumuliiting it on tliu
Icircumrt-rence. The exireniiiks of t)ie humerus, as well m all
lc>'lindrtealbom>9, aremucli larger than the middle portion, which
» for the purpose of aiTorthnff a greater surface for the articula>
Ition of the joinli, and the msertion of muscles (o mechanical
[arlvitniage. I'his exteiuioi) of surface, however, is procured
, wiihdutuny ineresBed weight; for there being but liltle danger
[of fracture at the ends of bonrs, great strength is not iliere ce-
IquireiL The bony case is therefore much thinner than in the
, middle of the bone, and the internal part is filled with the can-
^celli, or bony cells, which contain the marrow. The lower portion
fOf tlte humerus forms a very important joint, viz. that of the
eilmw, which in man admits of considerable rotatory motion : hut
I in the horse, as Uterat movement is not required, the action of
' the joint is limited to one direction, backwards and forwardi,
tftnd thus dislocation never takes place.
1'he Forenrtn is composed of two bones, the radius and the
)itlna. In man, botlk hones offer separate surfaces for articulation
(*iih both tlie elbow and the wrist, or carpal joint, by which
|li>eans the arm possesses a rotatory motion; but, in ilic lioi-se,
this not being required, die strength of tlic limb is concentrated
I in the radius, anci the ulna serves merely as a powerful lever for
Itlie attachment of muscles, and tti« security of the elbow joint.
[Hie radius is liicrefore a strong cylindrical bone, whilst the ulna
large at the upper part, which rises above iho radius, and is
[attached to it, and gradually tapers downwards, but does twt
reach tl>e knee.
The Carputy or, as it is commonly termed in the horse, the
I linee, corresponds with the human wrist, although apparently so
idifTerenl. It is composed of seven bones in the horse (one less
than in man), which arc arranged in two rows, thus forming
three distinct joints — firstly, ihjit Ix-iwecn the radius and the first
row; secondly, between the fir»t row and the second; and,
thirdly, beiween the last and the mcltiairpnl bones.
Eacli of lltesc joints possesses contitlerable action, moving as
it were like w many hinges, the fulcra of which are placed at
the back ports of the knee; the lowest joint, however, does not
enjoy so much latitude of motion as the others. One of the
98 BTBUCTL'RE AND EOOKOafY or THE llonSE.
«nr)vil ixmn is ptnced nl llio back of tlie knee, wltrr*.' it suftaim
no wri^lii, but neu u u U-ver for ilit' nttachniftit of iiiu>clc», and
forms tiiat imimincncc so pcrcvptible »t the back of (ho kitec in
liofsc*. Altlmiigb the km-e dw^ not possess so much motion as
t))c writt in mati, yet tite itorae requires a certain nuinbor of
buiies and joini.4, in order to obviate the coDcimioii lo which he
would be otherwise liable; for ilia neceesarjr that he should move
with great celerilv, and, at the same lime, that the vital organs
^wtild be secui'ed iVom the shock that would be experienced, if
the same concussion that tl>e feet received were communicated
to the internal organs. To accomplish this purpose, the joioU
greatly contribute; and none more so than titat of the knei'y
which is placed at an equal distance between the body and the
ground.
To neiitmlise the jar, no two bones arc pormitled to touch
each other, fur each is tipped with cartilage at the place of
junction, and is covered with a &ne delicate membrane, by which
an albuminous 6uid, called synovia, it secreted. This fluid, being
confined by what is called the capsular ligament, lubricates the
joint, lakes away the jar, and prevents llie bones from coming
inld contact with each other. The im|)ortancc of this fluid is
Itrikingly shown in coses where the- joint is opened by some
Kvi<rc injury, and tlie synovia <-scaping, tlm atmosphere i*
admitted ; the Bj*oovial membruncs come in contact, and tIte
most severe inflammation is sot up, attended with excoftivc jiain ;
ami the result frequently it, iinle«« the cavity cnn be quickly
closed, the horse either dies from irritation, or the motion of the
joint is destroyed by the secretion uf bony tubslunce in and
around it.
The lower row of the knee bones rest upon the metacarpus ;
which ill man and many animals is composcfl of four bones,
nearly eouat in sixe, but in the liorsc consists of ont? liirge and
two small molacai'pal bones. The large one is coniinoiily termed
the cannon, and forms the principal bulk of llie sli/uik, being u
strong cj'lindricat bone, oflen a fool in length, neacliing IVum the
knee to tlic fetlock joint. Like other cyliiidri<.'al bonet, the
cannon is smaller in tl>c middle and larger towards tl>e extre-
mities. The xmail ntttacarptd, or splint bono, although tliey
form a portion of tlie knei> joint, yet do not reach more than
three fourths of tlw length of the shank. Tliey are attached to
the cannon by elastic ligamentous sulmance, and gradually tiiper
tbwnwai-ds, and end in bulbous exEremiiica. With age they
become consolidated with the cannon, and in many horses a
boiiy- subalance, called a splint, unites them even in youth.
The length of the metacarpus corresponds inversely with that
of the humerus, and in proportion m (lie former is long and the
latter is short, and vice vcr$ix. 1'\wa in man tl»e humerus ia
I
THE SKELETON. 3S
long and the metacarpus s>iort, whilst in the horse we find the
latter bones long, and the former comparatively short.
The bones below the tetiock, the Phalange*, which in carni-
vorous animals are in four divisions, in the horse are consolidated
into one. Thus we have the firsi, second, and third phalange,
with a supplementary bone, called the navicular, or shuttle bone.
The first phalange is called the 0$ Siiffraginh, or large pastern,
which receives the lower extremity of the cannon on its upper
surface, having depressions corresponding to the convexities of
the cannon, thus forming the^//ocA joint. Immediately behind
the fetlock joint, and indeed entering into its composition, are
two small triangular bones, called the gesaiiwidg. They are sus-
pended from above by a very strong ligament, and thus, besides
protecting the fetlock joint, are the means of affording an im-
portant spring to the animal. The large pastern rests entirely
on the small pattern, a shorter but stronger and thicker bone
than the former; thus forming the pastern joint, the frequent
seat of those bony tumours called ringbones.
The small pastern bones rest upon two bones, the coffin, or
09 pedis, and the navicular, or nut-bone, thereby forming the
coffin joint. The coffin bone is the last phalange, and by means
of its connection comes in contact with the graund. It is a very
singular bone, both in its shape and construction, and will aflcr-
waras demand our more particular consideration. It corres-
ponds in great measure to the horny hoof to which it is attached.
The navicular is a considerably smaller bone lying behind the
former, supporting a portion of the superincumbent weight, but
affording likewise an important pulley for the flexor tendon.
This part is the frequent seal of disease.
The hind extremity of quadrupeds varies much from the fore
in the manner oNits connection to the body. There is less
weight to support, and consequently there is less danger of con-
cussion ; but as more motion is required, the connection is
'formed by means of a joint.
The upper bone, called thejemar, has a large globular head,
which is received into a deep socket formed by the bones of the
pelvis, and this joint is secured from dislocation not only by
means of the capsular ligament, but likewise by one of immense
strength situated within the joint. Tlie motion of this joint is
greater and the cavity deeper in the human subject ; but in the
horse the motion is chiefly limited to a backward and forward
course, there being but little in a lateral direction. Thus
the horse cannot, like the human subject, stretch his legs very
wide apart : but, however, nearly all the lateral motion that the
horse possesses in the hind extremities is possessed by means of
this joint, there being scarcely any aflbrded by any other. The
ftmvT is the largest bone in the body, and is extremely irregular
D
dd
STRUcrUHE AVD ECOKOUV OF THB UOR8E.
in sliape, liaving a niinibcr of pro[ul>erancps for the attachme^|
of muscles. Its loner rn<l articulates with the tibia, forminH
what is commonly termed the stifle joitit, and which corresponoi
anatomically vrith the human knee. As an additional security,
and to wanl off concussion, there are two elastic substanco,
called from their ?hape tlie semilunar cartilage^ interposed he*
twecn the hones whicn form this joint. In Ironi we find a small
bone called the pstelln. or knee-pan, which perfornia the office
of a pulley, receiving from above tlte tendons of lite airuiig ex-
Itensor muscles of the thigh, and firmly fastened by equally
^ strong ligHments to the ijp|>er attd front part of tlie tibia. In
all animals the length of the femur depeniis on that of the meta-
tarsus: in horses and cattle the latter is verj- long, and the
former short ; whilst in man and in many anintals we diKOver
an opposite arrangement. In man the lee is formed by tiro
bonn, the tibia and tUcjUiitla, both of which enter into the com-
position of the joint, and thus afford a considenihle extent of
L motion in every direction. In horses, however, the fibuU ii
l-altogethcr small and unimportant, the leg being almost entirely
I formed by the libia, which in the horse is much longer than the
r femur, and its loivcr end communicates with tiie tarsal joint, or,
as it is commonly termed, tlie hock. The tibia extends ob-
liquely backwards from the stifle joint, whilst the femur extend*
from above in a contrary direction, thus forming an angle which
' is more or less acute in diflV-rent nnimak, being in speedy animalB
} much more acute than in slower ones.
The hoeA is compo.'>ed of no less than six bones, but the
motion of the joint is almost entirely confined to Uic upper bonci
ihe attraffaliir, which articulates wiili the tibi& In the human
•ubjecl, llie lariiin rests on the ground, and the various bone*
whicli compose it, constructed in the form «f an arcli, form a
t-very irnj)»rtatit spring, to which very much of the elasticity of
rthe foot ii owing. Man is the only animal whose heel rc$i» on
the ground ; bui there arc many who tread on the various nlia-
langn, wliilst the hor»e treads eiuirely on the last toe. 'I hus,
with the long metatarsal bone, which closely resembles the meta-
carpus in the fore extremity, the hock is elevated considerably
from llie ground in a similar manner to the knee, but, unlike
I this joint, it forniji an angle from the metatarsus extending for-
Iwards under the body of the hoi-se. Tiie upper joint of tlic
fbock pos>c«»c« very considerable extent of motion in a forward
'direction, but none laterally; and the joint is accordingly con-
uructed on tlic principle of the hinge, and secured from di«lo>
cation by means of two condyles, or rounded prominences, on
lb*- U])p>-r ]iiiirt of the astragalus, which fit into corresponding
dcpr^^wioiiH in the libia, and receive between them also a ridg«
ill Uic middle of the tibia.
THE J01HT8. 35
The next bone of importance belongins to the hock is the oi
calcis, which corresponds to the human neel. In the horse it
does not bear any weight, but receives the insertions of some
important tendons, and thus acts as a considerable lever.
The other bones of the hock are placed below the astragalus
in two rows, the lower of which rests on the metatarsus. These
comparatively small bones contribute very much in taking off
the jar, and are closely bound together by ligaments, by which
all motion is prevented.
The bones below the hock being similar to those below the
knee, will need no further description. They are, however,
somewhat longer and slighter in their construction. — Ed.
CHAP. VII.
THE JOINTS.
Tbe chief peculiarity in the construction of joints in the horse
is that motion is almost entirely limited to one direction, and
every security afforded ogainst lateral movement; the result of
which is that we scarcely ever hear of dislocation in the horse.
Strength and speed are the chief objects required, and accord-
in|^y we find that the joints admit of a great extent of motion,
but in one direction only. We have before observed that the
ends of bones forming a joint are tipped with cartilage, which,
being elastic, takes on* the jar from the bones. This cartilage
is lined by a fine membrane, which secretes a fluid, somewhat
resembling the white of an egg, by which means, however rapid
or violent may be the motion of the animal, the part b yet
eifectually secured from friction. This fluid is prevented from
escaping by a capsular ligament, which is strongly attached to the
oeignbounng bones, and thus surrounds and encloses the joint,
being however sufficiently loose as to admit the requisite motion.
The capsular ligament is also lined internally by the synovial
membrane, and is thus secured from injury.
Many of the joints of the horse are constructed on the prin-
ciple of the hinge motion, being admitted extensively at one part
and limited at another.
The Shoulder joint is formed by the round head of the hu-
merus fitting into a socket in the lower part of the scapula.
This socket, however, is much shallower than in the human
Bobject, there being no lateral motion required. Tlie joint has
DO ligaments to protect it with the exception of the capsular ;
but this office ia efiectually performed by the tendons of the
strong muscles of the shoulder.
Toe E&ow joint is constructed on the principle of the hinge,
D 2
RTRUCrrORB AND BCOHOBIT Of THE HOSE
and is forimHl by tlie ro(iii<lfd [irominences of tlte huinenu,
iDoviiig in corre?iiioniiing detirciisioiis in the radius atid ulna, tlie
bon<>s of tlic nnn; and diHWaiioii ia etlectiially secured by a
itroDp ligament on eacli side, beaidfR tlie capsular.
Tlio A'ni-c joint i» compoMH) of no less timn three articulations,
bni(lt-!i a niiialler one iicliiiKl the knee.
Tlie moiioti, liowcvi-r, i* [>rinci[)allyconlined to lUe two upper
•rticulaliona, the botiea i>r which separate cnnRiderably in front,
but are confined behind. Theite joints are each invested by a
loose cninular liganunil, which permits the necessary extensive
tnoiion »f ihe joint, and are secured on each side by strong
lateral lij^iunenis; bi-i>ides which there are two annular bands,
out' behind and iliu iitht-r in front, which serve to lie down and
confine tin- fli-xur ti'iidoni.
The /W/ocjt Joint is formed by the rounded esitreniily of tbti
caiiiton approximating with the concave surface aflbrded by tlte
Iftrge pattern below, and (he two sesamoid b»ni>s behind. It
has, in addition to the capsular, no Ivna than nine ligaments,
seven of which are connected wilh (he sesamoid bones, and thus
serve to keep ihcm in iheir situation, in somewhat the same man-
ner as the masts of a vessel ace secured by means of ttie rigging
ov stays. I'hc other two ligaments secure the joint finiity on
either side.
The I'aslfnt joint possesses very little motion. It is formed
by ihe convex extremity of the Inrjie fitting into corresponding
concAviiies in the Amnll piisiern, and io sectired by tlte capsuUr
and two liganicnts on each side, and protected by tendons both
in front and In-hind.
'i'hi> Coffin joint poMcacn a s''''''"*''' '''"Rfee of motion iban the
pastern. It i» formed by ihi- upper concave »urfncc« of the
coffin and navicular Xynw* receiving the convex exlrcniity of
tlie small pastern. It is secured by a capsular and three pairs
of ligaments, connecting the coffin bone wilh lltcnnall pnstem
and the side cartilages ; and four other ligaments, two ol which
peas from the navicular to the small pastem, one joining the
navicular to the coBin bone, and another to the flexor smew.
These lijtaments, however, although nunu^rous, are not strong,
as the joint is within tlk- cavity of the hoof, and is thereby wal
securco from injurjr. "^
Joiutt tftke Hind Extremibf.
The Hip or T%igh joint is situated so deep-jeated, and so well
iirou-cted by large muscles and tendons, that it rwpiires but very
i-w ligaments. It is as before observed, a ball and »ocket joint,
the ball being formed by the upiwr part of the femur or rhigh
bone, uiid the socket (which is considerably deeper tlian tlutt of
THE HDBCULAR SYSTEM. 37
the shoulder) by the bones of the pelvis. The socket is stilt
furtber deepened by ligamentous aubsiauce attached to its rim.
The capsular ligament is thin, protection being afforded by the
muscles ; but within the capsular there are (unlike other joints)
two ligaments, one of which is called the ligamenium teres, and
is of great strength. It passes from a notch in the ball to a
similar notch in the socket, whilst another portion of it is attached
to the pubes. This ligament greatly assists in maintaining the
weight of the limb during progression.
The Stxfie joint, which corresponds anatomically to the human
boee, is formedi like it, by the apposition of the femur, the
tibia, and the patella. Within the joint we find two moveable
cartilages, which are confined to the tibia by several ligaments,
but which enable them to slide about, and thus increase the
motion of the joint without rendering it insecure. The patella
is a small bone situated in front of the joint, which it protecis,
being bound by strong ligamenu to the tibia, and receiving the
attachments of the tendons of the strong extensor muscles of the
leg, thus acting as a pulley.
Besides those mentioned, there is a strong lateral ligament on
each side of the joint, attached to the femur and the tibia ; and
within the cavity of the joint, ligamentous slips, crossing each
otber, are attached to the middle of these two bones.
The i/bcA joint, like the stifle, is well furnished with liga-
ments; and it has no less than six separate articulations, the
principal of which, however, is that between the tibia and astra-
galus, to which bones the whole motion of the joint is confined.
There are two strong ligaments on each side, both of which pro-
oeed from the tibia, and pass, one to the astragalus, and the
other to the os calcis, and expand on the other bones. There
are other ligaments attaching the astragalus to the metatarsal
bones. The os calcis is bound by ligaments to the astragalus, the
tibia, and metacarpal bones; and each articulation possesses sepa-
rately its capsular ligament.
The joints below the hock in the hind leg correspond with
those in the fore extremity. Having much less weight to sustain,
tbey are less exposed to concussion, and more rarely become dis-
eased. — Ed.
CHAP. vin.
ON THE HtJUClILAR SYSTEM.
It is computed that there are no less than 3!2 separate muscles
in the body of the horse, of which only ten are single, the
D ."J
dff
GTBUCri'ttE AMD ECONOMY OF THE HORSE.
rest being arranj^ in pain, so that botb sides of ihe body cor-
respond, whereby svinmetrical 8|ipearance is preserved.
Tliese muscli^ have been arruiiged by aiiatomUu into various
cUsse&i according to their relative situation. 1'huii, we bave llie
muscles of the head, the trttnk, and the extremitia, and thescv
tgain* are divided into various regions.
Under that of the head we have nine muscleSt whose office u
to more the ears ; two altaclied (o llie eyebrow-s, eight to the eyes,
and no less than seventeen connected with the jaws, twelve of
which belong to tlie anterior and five to the posterior jaw.
And between llie jaws, die sulnnaxillary »pacc as it b cailed,
there *re twenty-four small muscles, sis of which are connected
with the OB hyoideus, the curious bone at the root of ttw tongue:
four belong to the tongue, five to the pharynx, seven to tlie
larynx, and two to the palate.
i'he muscles ol'tlte jf'runA, one hundred and thirteen in number,
arc divided into thoito of the neff<, llie thorax, and the abdonttn.
The nitiEclcs of ihc neck arc forty in number, and arc divided
into five regions.
The muMilcs of the 'J^orax are thirty-seven jn number, and
■re divided into seven recions, of which we have tliree muscles
connectiil with the shoulder and the back, three with the chett,
ihn-e with the rihs ihifc with tho breast bone, and three with
the back and ribs; besides which, we Imve three large tnusclo
on the back, one of which, the luiigissinius dorsi, is of great
size and length, extending on each side of the dorsal spine
almost the whole length of the back, of which it forms the prin-
cipal strength; it is particularly observable in stout neaby
horses.
The seventh region of the thorax is composed of one muscle^
tltc iiiaphra(/m, which separates the thorax from the abdomeo,
and is tlie principal agent in respiration, acting inde])endentljr
of the will.
The muscles of ihe Abdomen are thirty-six in number in tbt
male, ond three lesa in the female, and are dividud into five
regions. There are six musclex belonging lo the loins, four to
tiie abdomen itself, their ofRcv tx-ing to Nupiiort its contents aud
to iBsiat in respiration ; two muscles l)clong to the anus ; four to
the Genital region in the male, and two in ihe female; and four
muscles arc connected with the tail.
The muscles of the Anterior Krtrfmiti/ are forly-eight El)
number, and are divided into eight regions,
There arc twelve muicles connected with the shoulder, two on
the outside of the blade, one Ix'ing in from, and the other behind
its spine. One muscle connects thv shoulder blade to the ribs,
and two oihert are attached to the back part of the scapula and
to the hunH'ru*. Two niu»cles arc attached to the lower and
TnS MUSCULAR 8YVTEM. 89
irt of tW wnpula, one of wtncd ti nttached to ilie humOTMifj
oiImt to i\%e mcliuK. At)oi)H.T muscle ti aiiacht<l (o tbn
Immerm juit bt'low ilieitlioulclerjoitit, niidio tlie upper utul outer
jMirt of the rndiiu. Keliind the tthouMer joitil, nii<l lilliii^ up jii
greiit moMure itie sjnice formed Ity ih« scnpiihi mid hiinicriDi,
there w a very hirgt miiHCular IkkIj', which i« exoeediiif^ly pro-
minent in many lioi->eft. piiriiculnrly in thoroitf^hbred on»i. It
is thin mutcle which foriiu a piiiicipnl |kiM of n khotilder of
mutton. It is called the irKrjts rjctejuor bmehii ; nnd, if we
regard it as one, has three •efxiratc origins and one inMTiion,
namely, the uliia. Oive head rines from tlie posterior ri<Ig<T of
the scapula; aitoiher from the outer pari of the hinnertii; and
the third hi-ad from the inner part of thb bom>. Thus situated^ J
it principally extendi the ami. \
n»ere is alsuajioiher muscle in this situation attarhed iibuve
to tl>e humerus, an<l l>elow to t)ie point of tlie ulna an<l the
capsular ligament of the ellmw joint
The muscles of the Arm and Fore-l/y consist of tlte extcnsort
and the flexors, so dettoniinaied fiom tlieir use being either to
extend or to bend the leg. I'he extensors are four in number,
wid occupy Ilie from of the arm, being very prominent in some
honn, parttculariy thoM.! who stand firm on their legs. One
of these muscles i* nttactwd lo the lower |>art of tlK> humerus,
and to the upper and front of ttie cannon bone. Another is
j^Mg^ed to both the hiiinenis and ulna iihove, and below by
iPmpof a loni^ loiidoii which commences above ihekttee, to the
two imstern and the coffin Imiies. J
A tbifd miiKle is uiiachcd above to the radius and the ulna,1
and below to the large pnsiern.
The fourth, smaller than the otliers, is aiiached above to the
body of the nulius, and below to the internal splint bone.
KThe flexor muscln of the arm are eight in number, and are di-
led into two regions, four being deei>seated, and four su]>er-
flcial. Of llie former, one is attached to the humerus above,
and below to tlie bone which projects behind the knee and to the
outer splint bone. Another rises from the humerus, and also
from the ulna, and is inserted, like the former, into the trape-
zium. Tbus, there are two muscles which arc inserted into
this email bone behind tlte knee, which thus formii an important
lever, and should therefore l»e prominent and well developed.
A third muscle in this region is ullaclied above to the hu-
merus, and below to the internal splint bone, and the fourth is
attached to the ulna above, and joins the pcrforaiis tendon below.
The four muscles belonging to the dei-p-scnlcd region arc, of
course, siinnled in front of those just described.
Two of them, calk-d the_/?'jor prrjhratus anil fierfurana, so
^»ll(il because the tendon of the lormer is pei'loruted by the
40
STRDcrCttE ASa CCOKOMY OP THR HORSE.
latter, have a common origin from lltr inner and infirrior part of
tl>c tiumorus, bpcoino iwo «(-|>Bi<ito tondonK nbovr ilir Icik-c and
aro inscru-il, t)iv ptTroraliit into lliv Nnmll |m!<it'rii, and tliv pcr-
foran« into tlic culfin bonr.
A third miiscir is altaelic<) abnvc to llw back part of the
nuliiN) anil below joins tlic ixTforaiiit tendoni vrbiHi it ajui»t«.
Betidea tlicBc, ihcrc arc eonic dimiiiultvi* nnd in«tgiiificaiit mu»<
eular slips below the Uncv.
Tlic muscles of ilic Hinii Eztremifif arc more num<'r()UK ihtn
tliosc of ibc fore limb, and iiru divi(l«<l into tbo*e bc-lynpinji; to
I llic tiniincli, and tUom: of tlit- tlii(;li and Iilnd li^; of tli« former
there arc twenty, and of the latter nine.
There aro lliree very large Bn<] powi-ifiil nuitcloji, e.illed tlie
ffliitial, whicli are attached above to the haund) bone*, and
below to the upper part of the feinnr or thigh bone. The»e
muscle* (ire of f^reai imporlunce in pr«greM4on, a* by tWir
Action ihcy advanw the boily after the limb has bit-n brought
forward: ihcy also act in lioih kicking und rearing. In man,
tliey are still largn- !n projwrlion than in <)Uiidru|Ktb; and they
mainly auiijit in preserving lliv erect position of the body. In
&t horses lhe«o nm^tcies apiH*ar externally mingled t<^ether,
bill in well-bittl aiiinialH, [mrlicnliu'ly if they have been trained,
the line.4, or railicr the furrnuK, of deniarcution are readily per-
ceptible. It i.i nt?edle«u to observe, that tht-^e nitucles form the
erealer part of a haunch of veniHiii, and in deer are .more
Jnrgi'ly developed than in slieep.
There are four smaller mnsclev, atiachi-d below to tlie upper
Earl of lite thigh bune, and above to the under {mris of the
Atmch bone, their office being to ii«i)it in the extension of the
haunch, and, in some measure, lo rotate it: some of them are
■ilnated within the ]M*lvit^ and arc connected niih tlie peri-
toneum.
There are Uirec miacles whtch form the front p«rt of tlie
haunch. One rises from the spine of the ilium, die hip boiiey
and i» inserted into the membranous covering of the muscles of
the thigh, whence it in ailled the teiuor vvtgina, and ia very
perceptible in poor horaes.
Another larj^e muscle is attached to the ilitiin above and
patella below, and 19 called the retfuM.
The third muscle is of great size, and has tliree divisions,
which are often considei-ed as separate muscles. Each of these
heads are inserted into the patella below, but abot-e, two are
attactwd lo ihc femur, and one to tlie bones of the pelvis.
Tlu'se powerful niiisctes although not attached to the tibia
itself, are yet connected with it by na-ans of t)»p patella, and
thus become powerful exlcnwrs of the thigh, raising and ad-
vancing i)h- limb, nnd ntfiming in llie progression of tlw liaunch.
THE MUSCULAA SYSTEM. 41
On tbe inside of the iliigh, forminf; that fleshy prominence so
perceptible in muscular norses, and which often causes the
thighs to touch each other, we find four muscles. The first is
a long slender muscle, attached above to the lumbar vertebree
and the bones of the pelvis, and below to the lower part of the
femur and upper and inner part of the tibia. It assists in bend-
ing the leg inwards, and is called the sartorius, which signifies a
tailor, being supposed to be greatly employed by tailors when
sitting cross-l^^ed on a board. A thin broad muscle, super-
ficially placed, is attached above to the pubes, and below to the
former muscle.
A third muscle, short and thick, is attached to the pubes above,
and the femur below ; and the fourth is a double muscle, attached
also above to (he pubes and below to the femur.
The fifth is a powerful muscle, attached above to the bones of
the sacrum, and the ischium, and below to the lower and inner
part of the femur, and upper and inner part of the tibia.
The outer part of the haunch is formed by two double muscles;
one is denominated the biceps, and is attached above to the
sacrum, the bones of the tail, and the ischium ; and below, one
portion to the patella, and the other to the upper part of the
tibia. This large muscle is particularly conspicuous in thorough-
bred horses, and forms the outermost part of the quarter. Its
large development is deservedly admired, and is justly considered
a sisD of breed.
Tne other muscle is situated behind the former, forming the
most posterior part of the quarter ; it is well developed, and ex-
ternally perceptible ; and tne space between it and the former
muscle is denominated the poor mark, being, of course, well
marked in lean horses, and imperceptible in fat ones : it is
attached above to the same bones as the former muscle, and
below to the upper, anterior, and inner part of the tibia. These
muscles raise Uie limb and abduct it.
The muscles of the thigb and leg are divided into three regions,
one in fix>nt, and two behind. The anterior is occupied by three
muscles, two of which extend the foot, and at the same time Ilex
the hock. The first is attached above to the femur, becomes
tendinous above the hock, where it passes through a sheath, and
takes its course in front of the shank and the pasterns, and is in-
serted into the front part of the coffin bone. The second muscle
lises from the fibula, and joins the former below the hock. The
third is attached above to both the femur and the tibia, and
below, after passing through a sheath in front of the hock, to
both the cannon and the inner splint bone.
The two regions behind the tibia are distinguished as the
snperficial and the deep-seated : ihe former is occupied by three
jniucles, the first of which is attached above to the lower part of
4S
STRUCTURE AttD ECONOHV OP THE HOUSE.
tlic fvmur, nnd below lo theoscalcis, or point of the Itock. Tlie
Mcond ia ntloclKtl above to tho fcinur, become trndinous above
ihc bock, pam(» ovor ibe point of t)i« bock down tbc leg, and »
tlicrv csllcd tbe prrforatus, and is inserted inlo tlte small pastern
bono.
Tlw tliird, n vcrv slender muscif, is attached above to tbe
fibiilii, jiik) irif<.-riorly to t)>c os calcis.
Th** iltiyt-frated rrgion is also composnl of three muscles. Tbe
first it short mid thick, and is atlachcd above to tbe outer and
bnck ptm of the Ivtnur and tbe cnpsiilar ligament, and lakine an
obli(|nf direction to the upper and inner part of tbe tibia. 1 bus
tituatcd, it rotates in some measure the stifle-joint.
Tbe next muscle, the flexor p<-difi, is attached above to tbe
outer and back part of the tibia and tbe fibula ; becomes tendinous
just above tbe bock, wheru it passes through a sbeaili, in a
groove on tbe inn<T side of tbe os calcis, and below tbe bock i«
denomiiintcd tltc flexor perforans, having a similar destination to
the »aaw tendon in tin* fore extremity.
The third miMcIc rises front tbe outer and back pan of the
tibia, becomes tcn<liiious somewhat above the hock, on the inside
of which it paMW tlirougb a shcatb, an<) joins tbe former tendon
below.
For a more [xirtictilur account of tbe mu»cle«, the student is
referred to Mr. IVrcivall's excellent work " Oti the Anatomy of
the Horse;" and also to Mr. Blaine's " Outlines of tbe Veteri-
nary Art."
'i'lie muscles are abundantly supplied with blood by the blood-
TOMels, which renders titoir colour dark. Tlie depth of their bue
b norc or les» in proportion as they are exercised, and thus in
the horse ihcj' are darker than in the ox or sbeep. Tliey are
idsQ placed to greater mechanical advaniage, the joints admitting
more extent of motion tlian in these weaker animals. Besides
wliieb they arc m««' abundantly >iupplic<l with nervous energy
by incaiu of tlie nervi"!!, t« which, more than to any thing else, is
owing tbe untiring energy which a well-bred horse so often dis-
play*.
The muscles are susccpttble of ureat alteration by me«ns of
training, tbe object of which is to obuiin ibe gr<.«test possible
strength in the smallest possible compass. 'lo effect this pur*
pose, a large supply of ntitrilious food i* given, and tbe super*
Hudu* fat is removed by sever<' sweating. Tbe inuteW are thus
rendertnl hard and linn, niul well dcvctiipi-d, und tbe wind grcnily
iinprovt-<l by exercise, until the Jininial reiii-lu-* a degree ot excel-
lence, lo attain and ascertain whiclt, demands die utmost skill and
judgment in the trainer.
Tlie opposite effect to this takes place when a limb is thrown
out of work by laincnes* ; the miucles shrink in a sliort time to
THE BRAIN AND NERV£S. 43
an incredible d^ee ; and thus in horses that have been lame for
a iong time in their feet, we find the muscles of the chest greatly
diminished, from went of the same degree of exercise. From this
circumstance, farriers, mistaking the cause for the effect, have
given the name of cheat- founder to the disease. — En.
CHAP. IX.
ON THE BRAIN AND NERVES.
The brain, the seat of the mind, and the fountain of sensation,
19 a soft body, situated in a cavity of the skuU called the cranium.
In man it occupies by far the greater portion of the skull ; but,
in the horse, from its much smaller size, and from the large space
devoted to the face, the cranium is much the smaller part. It
mually weighs about one pound and a few ounces in the horse.
It is closely invested by a membrane, called the pia mattr, whilst
the cranium is lined by a firm, strong membrane, called the dura
mater. Between these there is another delicate membrane, called
the tvmea arachnoides.
The dura mater, by its duplications, fornis several processes and
sinuses, the former, by descending between its divisions, serve to
secure the brain in its position, and the latter act as reservoirs
for the venous blood, thus preventing ihe brain from being
injured by any temporary impediment to its passage.
The pia mater closely embraces the brain, and dips into its
conTolutions. The brain consists of three parts, the Cerebrum^
the CenAeUmttt and the Medulla oblongata.
The Cerdfrtcm is considerably the largest, and is divided into
two hemispheres, each of which closely corresponds with its fellow.
On cutting into the cerebrum, we find that it consists of two
portions, — the medullary, or white ; and the grey, or cortical part.
The latter is mostly situated towards the surface, and the former
towards the centre; but both appear to run into each other.
Within the hemispheres there appear to be various cavities,
canals, and membranes, which, in this work, it is unnecessary to
describe.
The CerAellttm, or little brain, is situated behind the cerebrum,
than which it is considerably smaller. It appears to consist of
medullary and cortical substance mingled together.
The Meduila oblongata, the smallest division, is situated at the
base of the brain. It is medullary in its structure, and gives
origin to the greater part of the cranial nerves. It is by far tha
most sensible part of the brain, for whilst portions of the cerebrum
have been cut away, in some animals, without giving any apparent
«4
STBUCTITne AXD KCONOAEY OP THE HORSE.
pain, tlie lout pr««siire on the mcdtilla U productive of Injurj-,
or denlli. Tlie braiii i.t lurf^Hy £>up|)iic<l with blood hy t)t4;ans of
ihe enroiid iirtcrit^x, which iii returned to the heart h_v tlie jugular
veinti.
I'he spinal marrow nixv be conjtidered ai the continuation
of die brain, running from the nuHliillii oblongata, throiiglmut
the spinal catial, to the lAil. It ia enveloped hy the tuime mrtn-
branea ta ibe hrain, and oonliniie» to the sacrum, wliei-e it rndg
in several nervoti» cords. Its form in cylindrical, and it hufi bv«n
found to consist of six bands, in the eenii-e of wliidi iliere ta s
sort of canal.
Tlie Sfrvet, arising from the brain and spinal con), are forty
six pair, ten of which proceed from tite bruin, and the remainder
from the cord, and are therefore called the »pinal nerves.
On examining a nerve, we find i)iiit it consiits of a vast number
of white fiUimentt, each having iis particular covering, and yet
conipactly bound togeiliei-, and inveited by iiienibraiie.
Of the Cranial nerves, the first pair is ilie Olfnctory, the nerve
of smelling, pulpy in its structure, and the largest in the bo<)y.
It rises from llic cerebrum, passes ottt of tlie cranium, and a
spread out on the membrane lining the nostrils.
The second pair is the Outic, which rises frum tlte cerebrum,
but before they pass out of the skull join together, and decuiisate,
the right nerve going to the left eye, and vift vmd. It laket ait
oblicjuc course, pierces the outer coals of the eye, and is sprrad
out in the form of the retina, and thu« conveys tIte impressions
of objects to the brain. The sense of hearing is supplied by n
soft tierce, tlie auditory, which enters nn orifice in the temporal
bone, where the scat of hearing is contained. The sente of taste
is supplied by the fifth, which is a compound nerve, conveying
both sensation and motion. The other cranial nerves cunvc}'
sensation and motion to the various parts of tlie head; but tliere
18 one nerve which demands more particular notice. This is the
par voffvm, or pnrumo-fftutrie, of the French, It rises from the
brain, posses down the neck close to the carotid artery, and
distributes branches to Uie pharynx, larynx and (r^ophagus, lieart,
lungs, stomach, and liver. If divided oa both sides in the living
animal, death immediately rnsuee. Its importance may thus bo
readily conceived; it is intimately connected with life itself,
giving to the heart and stomach its power of motion, indepetidwt
of the will.
'Pic Spinal arc compound nerves, having a double function,
and a twofold origin, cnnvrying l)olh sensation and motion.
They wise by nnineroiis rilnnionts frum both the upper and
under snriiice oF the «)>inal oord. The filaments coftle«;e, and,
Ix'forc Ihey immcrge from the dura mater, join togcllier, prct'ioiu
to which, the upi>er nerve form* a «ort of knot, cnihTd a ganglion.
TBE CHEST, ITS CONTENTS AND CONNECTIONS. 45
This latter is the nerve of sensation, the other the nerve of
motion ; and thus, though united together, the filaments are yet
distinct, and a part is endowed mostly with sensation, or with
motion, accordine as the filaments of the former or the latter
predominate. There is one other nerve that remains to be
noticed; it has heen called the Gangliai, and also the Sympa-
Oietie. " It belongs," observes Mr. Youatt, in his admirable lec-
tures, " neither to the cerebral nor the spinal system, and seems,
in its liinction, to be independent of both. At the base of the
cranium, and in front of the atlas, I find a pyriform reddish body,
which gradually contracts, and terminates in a nerve. I inquire
not now into the origin of this ganglion, but a superficial glance
at the nerve tells me that it is peiforming some important office.
It is connecting itself with the cerebro^spinal, and with every
cervical nerve; but, more particularly, it is forming complicated
f>lexuses on every neighbouring blood-vessel. I trace it particu-
arly on both the external and the internal carotid, and I follow
it in the subdivisions of these vessels, until, from the minuteness
of the vessel, and the pulpiness of the nerve, it eludes my sight.
Hereafter I shall have to trace the course of the nerve in the
thorax, forming, with the cerebro-viscei-al, a plexus, or rather,
an investing membrane, around every vessel of the heart and
lungs; and then, having reached the abdomen, and combining
in the semilunar ganglion its own influence with that of the
cerebro- visceral and the phrenic, it becomes the seat or centre
of organic nervous power, diffusing its radiations over every ar-
tery and absorbent, and gland, and ganglion ; every thing con-
nected with secretion, nutrition, and life ; itself the very principle
of life and action — the soul of the organic system. It was
termed, before its character and power were suspected, the sym-
pathetic nerve, because it seemed to connect the whole system
t<^ether: it is denominated by others the gangliai nerve, from
its supposed origin, either in the superior cervical or the semi-
lunar ganglion ; but it would more properly be designated the
ffreat organic nerm, — the secretory, nutritive, chemical, — while
the cerebro- visceral is the motor organic nerve. It is the power
which presides over, and effects the changes in that fluid which
the motor nerve keeps in circulation." — Ed.
CHAP. X.
THE CHEST, ITS CONTENTS AND CONNECTIONS.
The chest of the horse is unlike that of the human body, be-
coming narrow towards the lower part, and terminating like the
flmVCTURR AKO BCONOMT OF THE HORSS.
keel of a Hhip, a ronn more fitvourable to tlie flexion niid cn-
tMiMon of the forc^li'^i lu well ns of the »houl(l«r-blades tbma
any oilier. The ii[>]>er piirt of (be chesl is formed l>v tlie ffMno
or ImcIc bone, ilie Hides by (lie rihn, and the lower and front ptrt
by tlie Bierniini or breast boac. The number of ril>a varie« in
different anlnialB; in ninn there are twelve, in tlie eloithant
eighteen, but in the ltor*e tiiere are sixteen pair. Kach rib
possesses (wo lieads or protuberances, each of w'lii<:h ii conncctnl
oy a joint with two vertebnr or bones of tlie back, aitd to tlio
breast bone by meMis of cariilii^e. TIte .S'trraiiiit, or breast botto,
in young animals is chiefly cnriihiginoiin, aiid may lie !ie|>amte(l
into eight jiieces ; it aflerwnnls becomes divinible into fonr only,
and, wiih ii^-, iw consolidated into one. The ribs are extemiilly
convex, niul nre divided into the true and the false ; tlie former
being sittiated anterior to the others, and iinmedintely coiincctocl
with tlie sternum; whilst the latter are implanted into esich other
at tlieir cartiluginoiis exiremilii^, and are only connected with iho
breast bone by means of the true ribs. 'I'lwir connection witli
the spine, by menus of a dciiible joint, affords to llie ribs a motion
backwards and forwards, by which means the cavity of the cliest
is enlarged or diminisiiL'd. This moiion, Il0we^•er, it consi*
derably less in C[uadriipeds than in man, for in the laUer the
rising and falling of (he clK^)lt is tccn in common respiration,
whiUt in Uu- former it is not pi-rceived, iial<-ss the brothing be
embarrassed. The ribs are connected topelher by fleshy siib>
stance, Irrmed the intercostal muscles, which are disputed in an
oblique coui-w, by which means their length considerably exceeds
(bat of the space between one rib and another, so that a con-
traction of one third their length will bring the ribs togeilter,
which could not be the case if tlie muscles took the shortest
cotii'te from one rib to another.
The chest is Bepnrated from the abdomen or belly by a very
singular and important mu^clci called i\K Dinphrat/m, or midriff,
which is convex towards the chest when in n state of rest. This
miitcle is sitapcd somewhat like a fan, and is attach«'d to iha
inferior extremities of the ribs and to the spine, by which meaiis
its position is rendered oblique, and its development more ex-
tended, and its action greater than it would otlierwiM' have been.
'I'iie diaphragm, unlike every other muscle, is fleshy at its circum-
fen-nce and tendinous at its centre. The reason of (his peculiar
construction may be thus explaineiL The ccntml part of the dio*
pbraginis pierced witli two holes for (lie|>atsageof ihecesophngos,
tlie tube which conveys food to (he slomach, and the vein
which conveys the blood to the liver for the secretion of bile.
Now, if these important vessels were Burrounded with muscular
suUstance, they would be forcibly coinprc'B«-d eviTy time the
diaphragm contracted, and would, in consequence, be liable to
I
I
THB CHEST, ITS COMTEKT8 AND CONNECTIONB. 47
considerable injury; but being eurrounded with tendinous sub-
stance which possesses no such power of contraction, all danger of
compreasioQ is at once removed, without any sacrifice of strength
or power in the muscle. The diaphragm, when in a quiescent
state, is convex towards the chest ; and when in action, it becomes
flat, thus enlarging the cavity of the chest.
The thorax is everywhere lined internally by a thin serous
membrane, which secretes a fluid, by which the surface of the
cavity is lubricated, and its contents are enabled to glide upon
each other without occasioning any friction or inconvenience.
This membrane is called the pUura, and the portion which
lines tlie chest itself is designated the pleura costalis, while that
which covers the lungs is distinguished as the pleura pulmonalis.
This membrane divides the chest into three cavities, one on the
right side, containing tlie right lung, and the other two on the
]en side, the smaller of which contains the heart, and the larger
the left lung.
The rigM lung is thus the largest, and consists of three lobes
or divisions, whilst the left lung only contains two. These
divisions of the chest do not communicate with each other, so
that if one cavity is injured, or air is admitted into it, respir-
aljoD can be carried on in the other.
The windpipe, or trunk of the lungs, is composed of cartilages
or cartilaginous rings, joined together by a slrong and elastic
membrane. The cartilaginous rings are strong and thiclt in the
front part of the windpipe, but gradually become thinner, and
terminate in thin slips, or mere membranes, which pass over
each other, instead of meeting end to end. By this contrivance
the windpipe will admit of being compressed considerably, by the
ends passing over each other; but such is the elasticity of the
cartilage, that the moment the pressure is removed, the windpipe
returns to its original form. 1'he use of the elastic membranes
which unite the cartilaginous rings, is to admit of the variou*
motions of the windpipe, especially that of its being elongated ;
and so great is their strength, that we never in any accident find
it torn, or the cartilaginous rings separated from each other.
Tbe windpipe, on entering the chest between the 6rst pair of
ribs separates into two parts, one going to tlie right, and the other
to the left lung ; from these divisions numerous branches, called
the bronchi, proceed to every pan of the lungs, dividing and sub-
dividing, and diminishing in their course. These ramifications
graduuly lose their cartilaginous cliaracter, and at length ter-
minate in an immense number of diminutive air cells.
The lungs themselves, therefore, are composed of the air cells,
the bronchi connected with iliem, and an iiifiuite number of
arteries, veins, and absorbent vessels, the whole being connected
together by cellular membrane, thus forming these light spongy,
46
STnUCTURB AKD XOOKOUY OF THE IIORSE.
yft imjmrtant bodice, nliicli are closely psckctl away in the
raviiy of ilic clic'I, nnd tltcrcforc exactly accord to it in its shape.
Tlir tipper part uf tlic> windpipe is connected with the muuth
by means ofn strong cartilaginous box, teriiiM] the Larynjr, which
is conipo«ed of firi; cartilages, tltv thyroid, ihc cricoid, tlie two
arytcn<)i<l, and tht- c-pislolti^.' The ntyroid n the largest of the
five, iind is m> culled from ils rivcnibling, and acting as, a shield.
It forntx iIh> front part of the larynx and great portion of iu
•idi-s, and cnti^iii* of two parts, the upper of which is continuoiis,
but the m\v» of ihe lower recede to as to form a triangular spacr,
which is occupi<-(i by a ligament.
The Cricoid, or ring-like cartilage, is placed {>elow ih« thyroid.
lits anterior portion resembles a ring of tlie wind-pipe, but its
' back part is considerably broader, so that it overIa|io tlui lint
ring of the trachea, somewhat in the form of a helmet.
'I'hc two Ariftenoid, or ewer-shaped cartilage», are much smaller
fthan tlw other, and arc placed at the upper part of the larynx,
itnmodiiiiely adjoining the back part of the cricoid ; thus platted,
thexv tri.iiigiilitr bodies leave an aperture between them, which
form!! thi- entrance to the windpipe, and their margins are
covt'red by a membrane, which forms what is called the Ilimti-
ffloltit.
, 'Ilic fifth cartilage is called the Kpii/iottis, so termed from !ii
L«fficc, which consists of shutting down upon the glottis like liii^
' lid of a lea-pot, to which, from its heart-iike shape, it i* nd*
mirably adapted. Viewing this cartilage in ils usual position,
jrWe lintl that its surface nearest the larynx h smooth atid toin^-
'what convex, whilst that portion nearest the muuth presents a
concave surface.
The larynx is lined throughout ils internal sur^ce hy a fiiio
delicate incinhrane, which secretes a mucus for iiit protection.
It is also abundantly supplied with nerves, by which it is rcn*
dered [x-culiarly sensible, and in this resjiect greatly differs from
the membrane lining the windpi[>e; for whiUt the latter may be
ecralclied with impunity after the operation of tracheotomy, the
slightest intrusion of a foreign body on the former prwluccs the
most innnediate and violent coughing, thus cx|>elling tlic in-
truding body.
The glottis, thus constituted, is admirably n<lapivd forguairding
the eniiance to the windpipe, and, generally vpeaking, a cougn
arises from some irritation of this port.
7'Ap Notlritf. The cavity of the nostrtli is very extensive in
the hone, affording a targe entrance fur tlieair in breathing, and
a considerable surface for the development of the organ of smell.
* A rut rtf rmcnting; the roriou* oritlagc* of the niniJpipa will be found
b the chapter on Koira^,
THE CHEST, ITS CONTENTS AND CONNECTIONS. 49
It is lined throughout by a mucous membrane called the Schneid-
erian or pituitary membrane, on which is spread out the nerve of
emell as well as one of feeling. The cavity is divided by a thick
cartilage, called the septem nasi, which is fixed in front to the
nasal, and behind to the maxillary bones. This cartilage is also
covered by the membrane before apokeu of; which, when inflamed,
as in coltu, becomes very red, and in glanders, is often the seat
of ulcers.
The nostrils communicate with the sinuses of the head, and
above with the larynx.
The entrance to the nostrils is formed by what is called the
&lse nostrils, which is formed by the skin, and possesses consider-
able flexibility, particularly in well bred horses, in whom the
opening to the nostrils is much larger than in coarse^bred animals.
The false nostrils form a sort of cavity, which has no opening at
the upper part, and this circumstance gives them their name.
The Heart
Is a strong hollow muscle, of a conical shape, with its base
towards the spine) and its apex towards the lefl side, against
which it is thrown at every contraction. It is double, hav-
ing a right and a left side, the former containing black, and
the latter red, blood; the right side is the thinnest and
weakest, being devoted to the lesser office of the circulation of
the hmgs ; tlie left, the stoutest, having to govern the general
circulation of the system. Each of these halves consists of two
cavities, an auricle and a verOricIe ; the former, which derives its
name from its resemblance to a dog's ear, is considerably thinner
tban the latter, and is situated towards the base. The heart is
formed principally of fleshy fibres, connected together by cellular
tissue, whence it obtains its elasticity; and its surfaces, both in-
ternal and external, are lined by a fine transparent membrane.
The blood is prevented from moving in a retrograde course by
means of a number of valves : there are three in the left
ventricle, the edges of which are connected by tendinous cords
(cords tendines) to small fleshy eminences on the inside of the'
ventricle, called cameffi columnee or fleshy columns. These
tendinous cords are more numerous in the valves of the left ven-
tricle than in the other parts, and being supposed with the valves
to resemble a mitre, are named mitral valves. Tliere are valves
also in the right ventricle for a similar purpose, which are named
tricuspid, or three-pointed ; also in the great artery, or aorta,
and in the pulmonary artery, where, having no cords, and
resembling, or supposed to do so, a half moon, they are named
semilunar.
The heart is enclosed in a strong membranous bag, which is
E
so
CTnucTirnE ASH kconomv of tre iiorsc.
named pericartlium, and tliiv riiclotes nl*» tlic trun)c« of lUe
veins and arterios, as vrcli a« the a]>peti(iaf^>« or auriclvs.
Thv heart is a n)ti«clc, but, iiniikv olht-r muiclfv, it is involun-
tary, bein^; allogcthcr independent «r thv will, and is for thit
purpose supplied by a peculiar wt of nerves. It is also furiiishwl
abundantly with blood for its support, by means of arteries which
are the tirst that arc given off, ntid these arteries are a£compuiiii-d
by veins, for the return of the blood to its proper receptacle. — Ed.]
CHAP. XI.
ON THE anCCLATION OF THE BLOOD.
[Tiir right side of the heart, we liave said, is devoled to the pu
inoniiry circitlalion ; its auricle receives from a large rein, calM
thu vena cava, the blood which liiu travelled thi'onghout the
syftetn, whence it pat^ses, liy the action of the licnrl into the
right ventricle, which, by its conlrac[ion> forces it iiilo a lar^
Tenel, called the pulmonary artery.
'Iliciice (he blood is sent into the lunf^ and ramifies ihrouj^h-
out its minute veiiseU. where it is expoaetl to the action of the
inspired air, and becomes, by means we nliaJl afterwards speak
of", reddened ami pmilied. This process bcin^; accomplished, the
blood pn«ses into niinuie veins, which, coalt-Minif, b<.-<;ume the
pulmonary veins (in the hor»e eight in number), anil through them
the blood again returiiK to the lieArt. So much for the pul*
monary circulation.
The left auricle, receiving the purified hloo<l from the puU
monar)' veins, forces it into llic left ventricle, which, contracting,
Bends the vital fluid into a large strong vessel, called the aorta,
whence it possn into smaller arteries, to he distributed through-
out the whole system. The remote divisions of the arteries arc
called the nipillury vessels, and in them the blood, afler having
Hccomplislieil its purposes and conveyed nouri^hmeiil to all
parts, becomi'« black and impure, and in this state enters the
capillaiy veitu: which, conjoining and increasing in siie, and
diminishing in number, convey the blood again to the right
auricle of the heart. Just before il enters the heart, it receives
a supply of a milky Huid, chilled chv!e, wliich is extracted from
the Ibod, absorbed by certain ^niall vessels, called lacteals, and
conveyed by a specific cliannel into the vena cava. Sucli. llten,
is the circle, or rather the double circle, which the blood takes,
and by which so many important purposes are beautifully and
correctly accomplished.
The circulation of the blood is accoiDfJished by the joint
THE CIIICULATtOK OF THE ULOOD.
M
lite ho«rt and nrtcrk'!, but principally by tbat of ibe
ExiHTiii>cnW bavf b«H'u institnled, with a vitw of
titiniiig ibv ikiiioiint of powiT powcsicil by tbp bcsrt, and it
ItM betii coinpdfd by Dr. Uaivi, ilmi (he forw exercised by the
I'lcfi vrntricle alone it equal to 110 lbs. in the bone> and it ii
Ibcliirvt-d that tliv blood U projecli'd into the aorta, with a velocity
[«qual to twcnly-onc fwl per minute.
The coiiimction of the venlrick-s and the auricles immedialely
Lsucceed each ullter; as one expands to receive the blood, the
I Other coiiiracls to Ibrce it fortvard, and thus the unequal double
action or tlic heart that we feel. Tlicse actions, however, of the
I tlifTerent cavities, could not be correctly performedi unless some
provision were made for preventing llie blood, when the ventricles
conlraci, from retroprading into the auricles. This, however, is
I clfecti-d bv means of a valve, situated between these cavities,
rhich is formed by a duplication of the inner membrane of the
*art, thickened by fibrous substance. The floating edges of
btliis valve in the right ventricle presents three points, and in the
^left two ; whence the former is called the tricuspid, and the latter
the mitral. The edges of each valve is joined by numerous short
tendons to the fleshy columnii of the heart ; ami whilnt the blood
is flowing into the ventricles, the fleshy colunins are passive:
[but wlien itte veniriciei act, iheie columns also contract and
]raw tlie edges of the valve together, and thus closex the cavity
I that direction, and prevents the blood re-entering the auricle.
There are also valves that guard the enlrnnce of the »aria, and
pulmonaiy arteries ; but they arcof a difTereut dtscription, being
>r less strenpfth, because they are nut called upon to opi>oae the
awerful action of the ventricles. Accordingly, we find they
nsist of three foUls of membrane, aiid are called from their
ttmilututr. 'Iliey are so situated, that when the blood
cs into the arlerlen they are thrown against their sides, and
flten the blood liaM posM-d, they are thrown up, so that their
meet, and thus prevent the bluud ivturning to the heart.
Iq fialies, llie heart is single, and only serves the ot^ce of the
pulmonary circulation, tlutt of the system being accomplished by
iie arteries alone; in the hone, tliough the heart is the principal
awer, yet the arterirt greatly oiMux, The Aurla, which receives
blood from the left ventricle, divides into two branches, called
Antrrior and Pailtrior Aorta ; the former conveying llie
u<l to the lieiiil and iM-ck, and the latter to the lower )karts of
body. Tlii-M.' arteries are strong and thick, and consist of
Jiree coats ; the outer, the strongest and tliickest, gives to
vtriael the remarkable elasticity which it po?.4es4es; the middle
Dat in the fihroux, which xeems to Ih- a modification of muscular
power, and enable» the arteries to contract on their contents; the
lliird .coat is the serous which lubricates the interior of the
E 2
^
srnucTUriE akd economy or tue horse.
venel, and taoililntcs the paseaffe of t\w blood. Thus, to (hew
BeveraJ coata, bm pariiculaHy lo the two former ont«, do the
arterieBOwc the remarkabli? properly thej- pos&ess, of coniractiiig
when dUlended with blood, and almost inimediaiely arterwards
expandinf; lo receive a fresh snpply ; and nhtch> assisiled by tite
action of die lieai-t, constitutes the pulse, and may be felt in every
part of the body, where an artery is sufficiently near the surfiuie of
the skin to l>e perceptible.
The arterie*, however, do not all possess an equal thickness
and power; for instance, the pulmonary artery, lhouf{h quite as
]arge as the aorta, is neither so iliick nor so strong : and the reason
is, that the «ame power is not required to send tlie blood over
the unnller circuit itf the lungs as over the larger one of the
whole tyttcm, and for the lame reason, tlie right udff of the heart
U weaker than the left.
The arteries, ii* iltey divide and subdivide in (heir counxs
become weaker to their coals in proportion lo the diminution of
their sixe, (ill at length tlii-y terniinnle in the intuute branche*
called the capillary veKtels, which do not [msse^ any pultaiiiu;
power, and many of which do not contain mi blood. Dimi*
nutive, however, n* these branclit-M may W, yet il is by them that
the most important offices are jH'rtoi-med; hy ihem the dilfereul
parts of the l>ody are nouriKheil, wlieihi-r Imne, flesh, nerve, or
skin; by them the \nriou* fluids an- secreted, however diflV<retit
in their ajipeiii-aiice they may be; by them the most ghostly
woiiudii are hcttled, and often in n remarkably short s|>aee of
time ; and all these various offices are perrorm<-<i not only by the
same class of vessels, but by the same fluid, the blooil.
Having secoiiiplislii'd llicse iiuporlant purpoies, the capillary
itrieries terminate in equaily minute vewns, called the capillary
veins, and so abundant are these diminutive vessels, that the
finest point of the finest needle cannot be plunged into the body
without iiem-irnting jconie of them. By the time the blood
reaches the veins, it become* dark and tmpui-e, and loaded with
carbon; the ofRet- of the veins, therefore, is to return it to the
heart to Ite ag^iin purified. 'I'lie circulation, howevei', becomes
much slower, m it is further removed from the impulsive power
of the Itearl ; nm! the veins, which are supposed to contain
two thirds of ihe whole blno<l circulating in the system, are
consequently much more numerous than the arteries. They do
not, however, pojsess the same strength in their coats ax the
arteries, nor hiive they any ptdsaiing power, 'Hiey have, how-
ever, the imistancr of oilier agents in propelling (he blood
to it* detiti nation. The greater number ol ihem possess valves,
which admit llie blood lo pass in one direelton. but eflectually
prevent ib ptLiKing in any other. It was, indeed, from reflecting
on tile stracliKO and necessary office of these valves, tliat led the
4
i
THE CIHCULAT10N O? THE BLOOD. 53
immortal Harvey to discover the circulation of the blood.
Another circumstance peculiar to the veins is their situation,
being mostly near the surface of the body, whilst the arteries
are generally deep seated. The wisdom of this provision ia
evident: it is well known ihat in wounds it is readily ascer-
tained if an artery be wounded by the jet of blood that ensues,
and which, even from an artery of small size, is very consider-
able, and the danger of death from bleeding is often great in
consequence of the force wirh which the biood is thrown into
these vessels. Now such being the danger attending the divi-
sion of arteries, it was necessary to remove them as much as
possible from the risk of injuir, and accordingly they are almost
invariably deep seated, and when they do approach the surface
it is in parts least likely to be injured. Thus round these
important vessels nature throws a thick muscular covering, and
protects the whole by a mantle so sensitive as to give warning to
the least attack. The veins, however, do not cequire this care;
in them tlie circulation is languid, and their wounds are com-
paratively unimportant and unattended with danger, for the
blood generally stops, without assistance, from its coagulating
quali^. It is also of importance that the greater portion of the
veins should be situated near the surface, in order to receive the
influence of the atmospheric pressure, which greatly assists the
motion of the blood; and it has also been found that veins
possess a power of absorption in common with a particular order
of vessels called the absorbents ; thus these various purposes are
effected by the relative position of the veins and arteries.
The structure of the veins is very dif&rent from that of the
arteries ; for whilst the latter are thick, elastic, and composed
of three coats, the former are thin, inelastic, and composed only
of two coverings. But although thin, they are yet capable of
a£Fbrding great resistance to pressure; for Dr. Hales found that
the jugular vein of a mare required a force equal to a column of
water 144 feet high to burst it.
We have seen that the blood is sent to all parts of the body
by the action of the heart and arteries, but what is the cause of
its return? First in importance is the \av/ of Itt/drostatics, " that
kll fluids support their level." Thus the same law by which
springs arise, and streams are produced, and rivers (low towards
the sea, is brought to bear in the living system, and enables the
blood in the arteries to support that in the veins. This effect
ia ^freatly assisted by the action of the valves in supporting the
column of blood. The blood, thus supported and propelled by
thearteries, assisted by atmospheric pressure, must go somewhere,
as the valves prevent return : it goes, therefore, where a vacancy
is afibrded, and that is in the right auricle of the heart, which
has just propelled its contents into the ventricle. To these
E 3
94
STKUCTUne AKD economy op the tlORSfi.
•ei-eml forces may be added a power ornucttvn tlte heart posMnn
wlwiipvor the clieat is etilargecl in respiration.
'Vhv iiuini)cr in tvliicli the chyle is inixnl up with the t>loocli
■O tluit its colour quickly disappears, itt worthy of [uirlioiil.ir
noli<!e. It is owingt indeed, to the great agitalton \\\v blowl
receive*, and to the irregularity of the heart's iiilenial sitrhoe.
WIhmi tlte auricles contract, iheir contents are in a great me«>
•ure discharged into the ventricles, but a jwrtion a thrown back
into tlte veins, which eonaiittiles what is called the veootis pul»C,
and niny eomctimea be seen in the jugular veins. In like tnan«
ner, w)icn (he ventricles contract, a portion of tlirir contents is
thruwit back into the auricles, at any rale lliat part of it situated
behind the valves. By titese moRns an agitation is pi'oducvtl,
which effectually inixe« these different fluids togcUier.
It has been ascertained that the veins possess • power of
nbttorption in common with a numerous cla&s of Tcssels caII<4
ihe ahorhmts, or lym/ituities. These vessels are very minute,
and lire distributed throughout the whole body; ilx'y gene-
rally accompany ilie veins, and, like them, are furni^lK-d with
nlves; sometimes, as in fitny, they become inflamed, itiid
gmlly enlarged. In the course of these ali«or^-nl vessels
tnere nn' a great number of glands, in which they appear to
terminate, and oiliera to begin, and thus th«-ir coiitoriti* or«
piloted onwards into the circulation. These glands are subject
to disi^so occasionally, as in strangles, and it is the hardni^ss and
swelling of these glnndt nnder the jaw that gives its name to the
disease called glanders. Ily rubbing varioui medieiiH-s on the
skin, tliey ore taken up by the ab^rbenl vessels, and carried
into the circiilalion ; and uuy iniorruptioo in tlie action of these
veueitt produci't dropical swellings — Ed.]
CHAP. XII.
TUK lltOOO — ITS NATUHK ANO C0MPO8ITI0M.
^itE Jiliiod is by far the most important fluid in the animsl
machine; it stimulates the heart to contract; secretes and nou-
rishes the various orpins of the I>ody ; and supplies it with beat:
and altliuugh it i» the *ouree whence other lluida are obtained,
it is yet a fluid »ui ymrrif, differing from all others. Soot) after
it is drawn from tlic body it coagtdates, and then separates into
two parts,— tlie Sffttm, a watery colourless fluid which floats on
tlu' top, and tlte CVojuviini^mm, which appears of a Arm consist-
ency and a rc<l colour. The serum is a peculiar fluid, and may
be s«-parated into its contlitueul principles. If subjected to a
THE BLOOD) ITS MATUHE AND COMPOSITION. 55
temperature of 150" a portion is converted into a substance
resembling albumen, or the white of an egg ; the other portion
remains fluid, and is termed the serosity of the blood, and is that
which constitutes the gravy in meat. The serum contains seve-
ral salts in solution, the most abundant of which is soda.
The Crauameatum is likewise divisible into two portions, the
Cruor, which gives to the blood its purple hue ; and the Lymph,
which is more solid in its nature, and is considered the basis of
the coagulum. The latter can be separated from the former by
washing, and likewise separates when the blood is a long time
coagulating, in which case the red portion of the blood, being
the heaviest, falls to the bottom of the vessel, leaving the lympn
on the top. The cruor, or red portion of the blood, has been
fouDd, on submitting it to a microscope, to be composed of
globules, which are supposed to be each about the three or four
thousandth part of an inch in diameter. It is therefore to these
globules that the blood owes its redness ; but the intensity of the
colour is subject to great variation, being darker in animals that
are poorly fed ; or when exposed to carbonic acid ; and becom-
ing more florid in others that are well fed ; and also when
exposed to oxygen, or to atmospheric air.
The other part of the crcutamentum, the lymph, which, from
its nature, is also called the Fibrin, is, in fact, the most important
of all ; for it is that which mainly supplies the different parts of
the body, particularly the muscles, with nutriment, and repairs
wounds and fractures in an extraordinary manner. Unlike the
cntor, it exists in the blood of all animals, and in every part of
the system. Some animals have entirely white blood, tne cruor
being absent; and in red-blooded animals there are some por-
tions of the body, such as the white of the eye, where the vessels
are so small that they do not admit the red globules.
The specific gravity of the blood rather exceeds that of water ;
but venous blood is somewhat heavier than arterial.
The temperature of the blood varies in different animals; in
man it is 90°, but in the horse upwards of 100°. It is rather
warmer tn the arteries than in the veins, and is liable to variation
from disease, it having been found in severe inflammations to be
raised 7° in man, and in the cold fit of agues 4° lower than in a
state of health: it is, however, but slighdy raised or depressed
by external temperature. It was not till comparatively a recent
date, that the blood has been considered to possess vitality, which,
however, is now generally acknowledged. The vitality and
fluidity of the blood is intimately associated ; in fact, its co-
agulation, when removed from the body, constitutes its death,
Tiie time in which this is taking place is different in different
animals, and is influenced by various circumstances. In strong
animals^ such as the horse, it is longer than in sucli weak animals
E 4
56
STKUCnrBE AWB ICOSOMY OP THE BOIISC.
ta tlio slioep : in tin- fonwr, il is often us long ax fifteen minutes ;
and, ir till' body be in u *i»te of pleiliora, itw vital power being
too biglily d<-vplop<'il, tlw death of llic blood i» nincli lunger
mi»led. In llii-«c ckm's congulatioo is drlamt, nml, in conie-
Sncnc*-, tin* rwl {lorlion of ihe blood, bdnf; the hcjivirst, £ilU to
w Uiiiom ol" ibc vcMcl, and the fibrin rcmaiiu iit ilic loji, con-
xtitiiliiij; iIh^ buIFy cont of inlUnimation. Tins ecpjirniion, when
ftrisinj; from tbe «borv cause, lakea place long bcfori; llie M-ruin
is develo]>ed.
The conciliation of the blood has been orolenvourtKl to be
accounted lor williout tuccets: it wiia held by romp, that it wm
prodiiccil by the cessation of tu motion; but it ha« h^x-n fotind
ihnt, if fltrrctl in n vnsv), >t will coagulate quicker than bi-fure.
It WOK tliuiight lh«l expo»iicc lo iW atmosphere was the cause;
but it tins bcH-n known to coagulate in a vacuum, ami likewise in
the hiKly wIkii a vein ha* been lifd.» It was next concictvcd ihai
it wns fiiiiM-d by tin? low tempernture lo which it is expose<l ; bul
il lia^ Ix-en jisceiuiiifil, that il will congulate quicker, if the tem-
jieraiurc K either higher or lower than natural; but ifsu low as
to freeze the blood, it will not coagulate when sfterwartls lliaw-e<L
These experiments Hhow, that the blood ts analogous to no oilier
fluid, and dint coagulation cannot be owing to ph,^-sicnl cautei,
but can Ik* expliiined only by refeix-nce to its vitalitv.
Altliough the lilood will eoa;;ulate in the body it obstnieled,
yet there i« a eonsiderabtv diflerenee b« tween this stale, and its
coagulation out of the body. In llie former instance oomguUtion
is longer occurring) oevi vessels nre thrown into its substance,
and it becomes organised. So, likewise, if a part be wounded,
the divided vessels throw out clots of blood, which adhere to the
surface of the wound; the red particles become absorbed, the
glutinous fibrin orgRuised, and the breach is thus grnduotly
restored. 'I1ius we N?e how important it is that tbe blood should
p«»»e>s it* peculiar properties, its state of fluidity, and its dispo-
sition lo cuiigniate: if the former did not exist, the blood would
be ol»>inicled in the capillary vessels, and the vital functions
could not he ejirriml ijn ; and, if deprived of its coagulating pro-
perty, no wuiukIs could heal, or loss of substance be restored ;
bui the UKXit ti'ining cut would be the precursor of death.
The i)iiai)tity of blood contained In the bodv it is very difficult
to aseerlnin ; for if irn tininial be bled to deain, a good deal will
Ktlll remain In the blood vessels. It has, however, been estimated
* Mr. Jontci Turner hiu inilitiilcil nml [nibtislied some vingnlar Dxperiinenta
on the liloiid vi^ssi-l.i. lie invciitcrl nn bitrtiincnt, b^ mvam oX which Mvcral
Inclic* I'f llic ciiroiid artery in u living; hur^c hai iciicij inilnntJincoiuJy, luiil
tlio bl»o I it coiilninril tiiililviily iiiiprtioiivil. Il won then Ikki-n frO'ii the liuitj-,
itntl t«ciii}-fi>ur hoiin nt'icr it vim fuuiiil lliiit llie blootl ous iii a tiuriit antt
|ii|uiil itnte.
&E8PIBATION, AND ITS EFFECTTS. 57
to be about one fifth the weight of the bodj ; Bnd of this, about
three fourtba is contained in the veins, and one fourth in the
arteries. Id young animals there is more than in old ones ; as
in them the body must act only be sustained, but increased in
size. It is likewise more abundant in wild animals than in
tame ones; and in proportion to the vigour of the animal.
— Ed.]
CHAP. XIII.
ON RESPIRATION, ANO ITS EFFECTS.
^The phenomenon of respiration, which is carried on from the
first minute afler birth to the last of existence, consists of two
acts, expiration and inspiration. The former, that of inhaling
the atmosphere, is accomplished mostly by the diaphragm, which,
in its relaxed state, is convex towards the chesL As its fibres
contract, the muscle flattens, and thus enlarges in a considerable
degree the cavity of the thorax. A vacuum is thus produced,
or rather a tendency towards it ; for the air rushes into the lungs,
and the blood into the heart ; and, as the lungs are elastic and
spongy in their nature, they become closely adapted to the
enlargement of the chest, and prevent any vacuum from taking
place between them and the sides of the thorax.
The diaphragm is thus the chief agent in the act of inspiration,
although in some degree assisted by the intercostal muscles, which
raise the chest ; and, also, when the breathing is violently excited
by those muscles that in quadrupeds attacn the fore extremi-
ties to the body. This may be witnessed in horses after severe
galloping, and also when labouring under infiammalion of the
lungs, in which disease the animal seldom- or never lies down,
but makes use of the fore legs as fixed points to assist in enlarg-
ing the chest. The air thus drawn into the lungs traverses
throughout its internal surface, and, having fulfilled its office, is
forced out by the act of expiration. This part of the process is
effected chiefly by means of the elasticity of the lungs, which acts
as soon as the diaphragm becomes passive, assisted, however, in
some degree, by the elastic cartilages of the chest, and occasion-
ally by the abdominal muscles. In a healthy horse, in a. state of
rest, there are from four to eight respirations in a minute,
jvhich, however, is increased by the slightest exercise.
^teui^«rtcai> consists of unequal parts of two aeriform fluids;
viz. 79 of nitrogen or azote, and 21 of oxygen in each 100 parts;
besides which it contains other heterogeneous matters, such as
odorous effluvia, aqueous exhalations, electric matter, and car<
smDCTi'BE Attn rcowowv OF rat ooksr.
bonic acid gas, II every where Eurrouiuls and emt)race3 |M
gtol>e, extendiiifc, in lite opinion of some, a distance of fony-lnP
miles, ajtd in others a much greater height. Its gravity diffcn
very much at different times and in different ulaoes, being
heavier on a clear iliaii on a close day. and also m low (tlaeM
than in loflv ones. The smalt portion of caritomc acitlyat which
the atmoaiihere contains, is not chemically, hut mi-cltanicollyi
mixed with it This gas is evolreil by the Mermen latioit of beer,
and the decomposition of vegetables, and is often f(>un<l in vrelli
and deep places. It is much heavier than ihe atmosphere, hikI
thus remains in these low places by its gravity. A lighlinl candle
placed in (his gas is immediately exiiiigtiished ; so iJiat it is tiwd
as a safeguard in descending into these low and fotd places, for
whatever will not support combustion will not support life. It
is not a simple gas like oxygen, but is formed by the union of
caHton and oxygen.
iViVroi/m or mnte ia ti simple gas. but its use in ibe atmosphere
Beems to be of a passive nature, being for the puqmse of diluting
tlie oxygen, and rendering it less slimuhiting. It will not
alone support life or combustion, but is chemically mixed wttli
the oxygen.
Oxygen is essential for tlie support of hfe and combitslion ; for
if air be deprived of it no animal can live, nor will a candle
remain lighted. It is abundantly furnished by plants ai>d shrubs,
which thus supply the diminution of it created by animals.
When a Hame is exposed to this ga.t it greatly increasr« in bril-
liancy; and when venous blood is submitted (o it, it quickly
becomes florid.
We Imvc before tlwwn, that all the blood in itie body was in
its tuni carrierl from the h<iir[ to the lungs by moan* of the pul-
monary artery, which dividi-s and subdIvi(U*s into the tmatlnt
l)ranch<>«, and terminates in smalt capiltitry veins, which, coales-
cing, h«om« birger, and convey ilii^ bloo<l ixgain to ilie Jieart by
the pulmonary veins, before it reaches thoM- veimi, however, an
imporlnni change takes plnee : ihf blood proci-ed* from llie heart
Un a black and impui-e »mv ; it ii'tunii redden<-d and purified : It
is submitted in its course to the action of the air in the nirKM.'!!*,
not by actual couluct, but ihniugh the membrane which forma
tlie«e cells; and by (his means the important change is elTecled.
There is, we well know, a conxidcrubU^ difii?rencc between (lie
expired and the in^^pired air ; the former is hot, the latter cohl ;
this is healthy, that injurious; one will support combuKliou ami
life, the other is unfit for breathing and will extinguish a tlame^
1*beiv is but little difTcrence in quantity between the air in its
diUcrent states; but the oxygen in expired air has nearly d it-
appeared, and carbonic acid gas is found in its stead; it also
oonlaiiis much aqueous vapour, which is condensed in a visible
KEBPIRATIOK, AND ITS EFFECTS. 50
form, at a temperature of 60°. Thus, although the carbonic acid
gas is much heavier than common air, yet, partly from the
aqueous vapour which the expired air contains being much
lighter, but principally from its increased temperature, the ex-
fiired air, notwithstanding its carbonic acid, is yet specifically
ighter than the atmosphere, and consequently rises upwards, and
thus, in great measure, is prevented from being respired a second
time.
It has been found by experiment, with a portion of atmospheric
air, containing 80 parts of nitrogen, 18 of oxygen, and 2 of car-
bonicacid, thaton being respired,tlie nitrogen continued the same,
but the carbonic acid was increased to 13 parts, and the oxygen
reduced to 5; whence it appeared, that 11 parts of carbonic acid
were substituted for 13 of oxygen, 2 parts having entirely disap-
peared. Thus, the disappearance of the greater portion of the
oxygen, was accounted for by its being converted into carbonic
acid; but there remained a small portion, whose absence could
not be thus explained, more particularly as Sir H. Davy caI-
culated, that about 32 ounces of oxygen were necessary for 24
hours' expenditure in a man ; but only 26( ounces are requisite
for the formation of even 37 ounces of carbonic acid gas, giving
us an unexplained surplus of 5J ounces of oxygen during the
above period. By some it was supposed, that this surplus oxy-
een unites with the hydrogen thrown off by the blood, and is
uiUB converted into watery vapour : by others it is held, that this
oxygen b absorbed by the blood, and enters the circulation.
Oirbonic acid gas is exhaled from the lungs in different quan-
tities during different periods of the day, being generated in the
greatest quantity about noon, decreasing in the afternoon and
night, and again increasing in the morning. It also increases in
man by taking animal food-
Sir H. Davy contended, that a small portion of nitrogen is
absorbed by uie blood; but this has b^n denied by others.
The chief use of nitrogen, however, is to dilute the oxygen; for
if the latter is inspired pare, a sense of warmth is felt in the
chest, the heat of the skin is raised, the pulse quickened, and
other symptoms of excitement are produced; but if the oxygen
is diminished, a sense of languor, and disposition to sleep, is pro-
duced. A given quantity of oxygen will, however, support life
longer than the same quantity of atmospheric air. It has been
computed that, in the course of twenty-four hours,about 2 lb. 8oz.
of oxygen is consumed by a man.
Aner an ordinary respiration, a considerable quantity of air
•tUI remains, perhaps live-fourths more than has been expired.
Having mentioned the changes that take place in the atmo-
•phere, we must next consider in wliat manner the blood becomes
•o altered by its passage through the lungs.
M
STRUCTVnC ASn eCOMOMT OF THE ROKSE.
Tlie blood, as it travonmhroiigli the body, grtultinlly Wconm
darker ; ic U loaded with carbon, and is rcnd<>rwl utiht for the
circulalion, and in this state it is t-alU-d venous blood : if venous
blood taken out of ilic body bi- exposed to uxygpn. it quickly
iK-coniea red ; and so il does it vxp09«] to tlic atmosphere, but not
so rapidly. So, likewise, ifarterml blood be exposi?d to carbonic
acid, it quickly acquires the colour and clisivcter of venoui
blood. ID the same manner is ttw colour of the bluod changed
in tlie lungs: thus the principal use of n-spiration appears to
be, to free the blood from its impurities ; and this is eSected.
although the air and the blood do not actually come in coniacc.
It was found, that if blood in a common bliidder were exposed
to tlie atmosphere for some time, it acquired a coaling of florid
r blood ; and tliuH as the membrane lining tlie air cells is by no
I means so thick as that of the bladder, tliere is no longer any dif-
ficultv in accounting for the ch<inge taking place.
It lias been tliv subject of some dispute, as to nlu-re the change,
or rather exchange, takes place, some contending iliat the carbon
unites with the oxygen in the air cells, whilst olliers maintain
that the oxygen enters (he bloorl, and there unites with the
carbon, forming carbonic acid gas, which is then exhaled into
the air cells. It van found, however, that if venous blood was
put within ilie exhaui!te<i receiver of an air pump, a quantity of
curbonic acid escaped, llins proving the presence of thia gas in
Ltlie blood, and supporting the second theory. And as there
'appours to be a greater quantity of oxygen abstracted from the
atmosphere than can be accounted for by the formation of car-
bouic acid, we must conclude that a portion mingles with the
blood and enten the circulation ; which theory agrees with tlie
fact, that it has retenlly l>eeu discovered bycorivct analysis, that
both venous and arterial blood contains carbonic acid, nitrogen,
and oxy)n.-n, but that the latter gas is most abtuidant in arterial,
and the lormer in venous blood.
Although the action of the heart is much more frequent than
that of the chest in respiration, yet there is a most intimate c<«i-
ncction between the one and the other; for besides llie changes
which we have spoken of in the blood, it rushes into me
heart when the chest is expanded, and when from any cauw re-
upiratioii is delayed, the pulse becomes lets frequent and more
Hanguid, in consequence of the obstruction in the current of lite
blood. Thus in violent fits of coughing, the chest colla[ii<-ji, the
air is expelled, and ilic blood not being purified, i* unfit fur cir>
cuktion, and the consetguence is, the veins of the head U'rome
distended, and in man the person becomes red or black in the
face, and sometimes a bhiod vessel has ruptured, and death
Bii]>ervened.
'llie ProduetuM of Animat t-bai, — Tim important opi-ralion is
HESPIRATION, AND ITS EFFECTS. 61
effected by means of respiration, — the chemical process carried
on in the luncs.
The sensation of heat is derived from the presence of an ex-
tremely subtle fluid, called caloric, the particles of which have a
tendency to repel each other, and unite with other substances.
Thus if we touch a body whose temperature is lower than that
of our band, caloric passes from the hand to this substance, and
the sensation of cold is experienced ; and if, on the other hand, the
temperature of the substance is higher, we feel a degree of heat
from the passofje of caloric into the hand. It is a singular fact,
that this caloric may exist in two different states, the one in a
free or sensible form, the other in a latent or combined form.
Thus two substances may appear to be of the same temperature,
and yet one may contain a much greater degree of caloric than
the other, but so combined with the substance, that it is not
sensible to the touch. If, however, the object be exposed to
the influence of some chemical agent, its latent caloric may be
set free or rendered sensible. For instance, if sulphuric acid
and water be mixed together, although each fluid were before
cold, the mixture is raised to a high temperature, and caloric is
evolved. In the fermentation of malt liquors the temperature of
the liquid is raised with the process, and carbonic acid is pro-
duced. And it is found that whenever this gas is evolved, that
caloric is produced and rendered sensible: thus in the lungs,
the oxygen of the atmosphere combines with the carbon of the
blood, and carbonic acid is produced as in fermentation. What
becomes then of this caloric? One portion is expired in a sensible
form with the breath, which is thus rendered hotter and conse-
quently lighter, and thereby ascends : another portion becomes
sensible in the blood, and raises its temperature two degrees, but
by far the greater portion of caloric is acquired by the arterial
blood, and there remains in a latent form. Some substances
have a much greater capacity for caloric than others ; thus arterial
blood has more than venous blood : this being the case, as the
blood loses its arterial character in the course of circulation,
it loses also its capacity for retaining caloric, and as the blood
acquires carbon, it gives out caloric in a sensible form, and thereby
every portion of the body is supplied with heat, with the regu-
larity and precision of the most beautiful machinery. And thus
every animal bears about with him, safely packed away in the
cavity of the chest, a chemical apparatus, superior to any which
the laboratory of the chemist can supply, an apparatus adapted to
all climates and all temperatures, which in one moment can
convert the frozen element of the northern pole into the very
material of physical heat. — Ed.]
STRCCTCRE A!rO ECOKOMV OF TBE nORSC.
CHAP. XIV.
THK MOUTH AND THROAT, KTC.
[The moutli of the horse is of great extent, which is necessary in
order to contain a large qu&niiiy of food, and, also, to afford
AockeU for the large molar teeth. It is wider aiid dce{)er at tlie
upper part towards the throat than U the lower. It is bounded
in front priiicii>ally by the anteiior maxillary bone) by whicli it
jiB separated from ihe noBtrih, and posteriorly by ilie numerous
' muscles situated between tlic brandies of the posterior jaw bonb
Jl is lined at every part by a mucous membrane, wliich, however,
lis not immediately placed on the bone, there being a tJiick 6m
substance interposed.
These membranes are corrugated at the upper jaw, and be-
tween the incisor and maxillary tcelh, forming what are com-
monly called the bars, and where horses are sometimes bled:
these bars are also the seat of lanipas. The gums of the nMUtJi
are also composed of these membranes, which thus alFord security
to the teeili,
The ai<Ies of the mouth ai-e formed by the cheeks, which arc
composed of skin and membrane, sufficiently loose to admit the
limited motion of the jaws ; they are connected with tlic powerful
niasscter muscles, which form ihc greater part of tlic bulk of ll>e
face, and princiiially axsiHi in the grinding motion of the jaws.
In the skull we find the lower jaw considerably narrower thao
the upper, but in the living animal this docs not appear, tlie
.jvpnce being occupied by the masseter muscles.
'Ilie li|i-i groiily asuixi in gaiheriii]^ together the food, and are
largely fmnithed with ihe nerve^t of feeling; they are con)|xMed
of skin, muscle, and inenibiane, and possess the powers of motion
and sensation in a high degree.
The mouth is abundantly supplied with a watery fluid called
saliva, pnrticnlarlv during mastication, when it is secreted and
poured in in considerable quantities. This thiid is secrcred by
lliree pairs of glands, the largest ofwliicli an: tlie |))irotid, »•
tnnierl at ihe rout uf the ear, and rrotn which ducts convey the
fluid to the mouili, Icnninnting opposite the second molar
leetli. The sulimaxillarii- glands are )>iiuaied under ihvjaws, aiid
their ducLH termlnaiv in tubular eminence near the fni'tnim
or bridle of ilie tongue. The other siilivary glundH are the sub*
lingual, situaied under the tongue, and its ducts terminate
rather higher up than ihow last described.
The mouth is principally filled with the tongue, which u
tnnsculnr in its structure, and very flexible, being iiidei-d a prin*
THE HOUTB AND THROAT, £TC. 68
cipal agent in mastication and swallowing. It is larger at
the upper part tlian towards its tip, and is confined poste-
riorly to the muscles between the branches of the lower jaw,
by a sort of fleshy bridle, and above to a singularly shaped
bone, called the os hyoides. It possesses both the power of
feeling and tasting, and for this purpose is well supplied with
two Ascriptions of nerves, and is covered by both cutis and
cuticle.
The cavity of the mouth is separated from that of the nostrils
by the soft palate, a muscular membranous substance fastened
to the semicircular border of the palate bones, and hanging
down on the back of the tongue, so that in the ordinary state
there is no open communication between the mouth and the
throat, and thus all breathing is carried on by the nostrils, and
fluids coming either from the lungs or the stomach pass into
the nostrils. When, however, food is passing to the stomach, it
raises this membrane, and then enters the pharynx, the mem-
brane immediately afterwards falling down into its old situation.
The Pharynx, or food bag, is a muscular cavity, situated at the
root of the tongue, and immediately above and adjoining the
larynx. It receives the food from the mouth, and by its mus-
cumr power forces it into the oesophagus. It is this part that is
afiected in catarrh when there is a difficulty in swallowing.
The (Esophoffus is a long tube, commencing at the pharynx,
and ending in the Btomach. It passes down the neck rather
above the windpipe, and towards the left side enters the chest;
it traverses ite upper part, pierces the diaphragm, and ends by
a sort of curvature in the cardiac orifice of the stomach. It is
lined in common with the mouth and alimentary canal by a
mucous membrane; but it is principally composed of two orders
of muscular fibres, one circular, the other longitudinal, by which
it is enabled to propel the food forward, into the stomach. In
addition to this there is a white cuticular coat between the
muscular and the mucous, and which also lines half the stomach.
The larynx, the pharynx, and tlie tongue, are connected
together, and to the upper jaw bone, or rather lo the bones of
the head, by means of the os hyoides, so called from its resem-
blance to a spur. The semicircular part of the spur embraces
ID a manner the larynx; whilst the shaft is intimately con-
nected with the root of the tongue: this part in the horse is
much longer than in the ox, and thus confines the motion of the
tongue in a great degree. The os hyoides has two long appen-
dages, which articulate with the temporal bone. Thus situated
cuid constituted, this bone gives great support to the soft parts
connected with it, whilst, at the same time, it freely admits their
extensive mobility. In the act of swallowing, therefore, this
bone is greatly called into action.
STBUCTl'BK AWn ECONOMY OP THE HORSE.
Adjoining lire pharj-nx are Iwo large spaces, called tlie Eu-
Rtacliian cavities, situated one on encli side, nnd cammunicating
by mrant of a lulw with the internal ear. Tlieir use it not
known, but they urr supposed to assist in neighing; ocosionaliy
they arc full of matter m Btranglce and oiln'r diteuses of tlw
tltroaL — Ed.] ^
CII.\P. XV.
THE VISCEIIA OP THE ABOUHEK, OR BELLY.
[The nbdoinen of llie horae is of large size, compared with man
or with carnivorous animals; the nature ofhi* food rcquiresconsi-
derable vohimc in the intestines, and thcM", of coiir«', demand a
eorrcii|>onding cnvitv for their reception. Wo Riul it ulmosl an
invariable rtile, tliut homes with very amnll hcUim are incapable
of much ur lung continued exertion. The iibdonien iit bounded,
anteriorly, by the diaphragm, which si-|iarnu-s it from the chest i
posteriorly, by the bones ol' the pelvis; siiperiorlyi by the ribs and
back bone, and their muscular coverings; latfrally, byihi; nb«in
front, and the alMJominal muwhi; and, inreriorly, by tlic abdo-
minal muscles, which form their mosi extensive covering.
On cutting into the cavity, wl- perceive a smooth shining
membmne, nilled the peritoneum, which every where lim« tlw
interior of iIh' nbdonten, and i« lilno reflocterl on the viscera, go
that no two organs touch «neli other, this membrane being
interposed between them. [t« iiw", then, i« priiicipully to prevent
friction, Hiid to cn^ihle the »hiioi>i continual motion of the bowels
to be executed willimil injury. For ihi* purpo»c it secretes a
watery fluid, which, in the living iiniinal, exists in a vaporaut
form, and perfectly lubricates every part it anproache*.
The peritoneum is composed of dense ciOlular im-inbnme, is
very strong, and yet extremely elastic, whi-reby it can accum-
modaie itself to the e\-er-varying sine nnd disposition of the abdo-
minal conteni-s particularly during gestation in the female.
When the animal i* in a slauding postnrc, the lower ]>urt of
the abdomen U wcupied by the large inie:^iini-« ; the ajwx of the
CKCiim being abutit the centi-e, and the colon around it : abow
them arc the »mnll ini«'Stines, which, however, sometimes in-
sinuate betwwn the largi*.
The moKt important of the abdominal viscera is the stitmafh,
which in tin- hor«* is of a )>eculiar sirueluri', and considerably
smtillcr ihun in any other animal of similar bulk and power. It
is a strung muscular envily, capable of conti<lerable distention,
OS hfts becfi found on opening lior»es that have dietl of stomach
I
TiiK viscsha or the audomkh, or bkllv. 65
tttggm, ill wliich (lUordor it tinx bcrn «ircici)(H) to a iiii»t
MUtmoas cxlrnt. In one imiancc I tiuvt- known the xtoniacli,
with tho hnrdviMxl undi^-ttvct food it c-oiitnim-d, weigli more
tluiti tiixty poumU. SoairtimM it » cliMriKlrd witi) air lo n
coi).iicl4Tai>lc tlcj^rct-, as in mdigt-siion or flaiulc-tit colic ; but in
the lienltll]* >t«tr it is compnrntivcly «n>iilU and of frrrat Mrenglh.
'llie tiomacii i* *iiuati.-d on l)>i- l^'ft Kid<-. wiili in. convex |>art
sgitiniit tliL- tliiiplir.ij^ni ; it liaK (Ik- >![iKtti iitlnrlHil lo its left ex-
iretnity, and iis luwrr part i* covcn-d witli the omentum or
caul. When Uie tioinavh i« full, its utustion so close to the
diaphragm uill itiifEcifntlv itncouni for itie fact tha% after being
loaded, ilie home u InQi[iable »f great exertion, and reipirntion
becoHK-s dliiurlieil : (be action of the dia^tJiragm becomes indi-i-d
mechanically imitedrd.
Thlt cut NpTMraU Ibc Slorruuih ntn) I im r ml cixn, fi an In thow Ihrir inlenut
.ijiIlh:^ .
I, Tb> mophapii. <i. Tin pitarif otiOcc opening into
S. "nicaHiluc arillct nf (he Mcuuulii ihc iluudciuiin.
to If tii>K«l u lu Jirsnuit lOtnlt- T. Tliv ml uiiciiui inunibniui of tli4
iDjt- ritiuclvntMii.
'J 9, Tilt wtiids mlipMlur, tn>e»niubli> ft 9, Orilicp ufthv iluc^ iM^ing ftom
portion of the itomcch. Iho IjtcT^
4 4, Ths line wptmiing fmIi |iortioD. 10^ Oiincv vt llit' duct Uiiilinj; tiom
St 1^ vinuim, (ir it'iikililc, i^iprrioii- tlw p^ricritik
Tlie sioii)iu-li |}Of««'»M'» four coals. 'I'Ik* fiint i» formi-d by the
peritoneum; tlie M-Cond, »ituated next l» the Jirvl, in, like the
roniier, white, and is conipoie<i of two M^t* of niii*0(il»i' fibrt-n ;
one set running in a longitudinal direction, and the other in a
circular courite ; llie latter are stronger (lini) lliu former, and tire
tituated widiin ihi-m.
'I'lie third and fourth coat* lint.- tho interior of the aluniach.
F
OB
STRVcrvnz amd rcokojct of the horse.
On lurninf; lh!a vUcus inside oiitf vc find one halT occupied by
• while culicular and almost insensible membrane, separated
from iIm* fourtli coat by a waving line. It extends over the left
estremitv, and its elasticity enables it to accommodate itself to
the varying size of tbe stomach. Tlie Tourth coal, called tlie
vtllouB or mucous, lines the larger Imlf of tttu stomacb. It it
8omcwl>at red or yellow in iu colour, Is very rasctdar and sen-
sible, and exhitMls numerous processes, having; ihe appearance
of velvet, which arc indeeil the minute raniiRcaltons of blood
vctsels, by which a most important fluid is G«Tri-ti.il, called tlie
gastric juice.
Hie stomach han two extrrmili***, the right and iIh> left ; tlie
latter of which is the larger, and terminates in a wrt of pouch.
It ha^ also two curvnlui'e«, n larf^ and a small one: (o the
former the omentutn and *pleen are atlaclted. It posw«Mt two
opening, one communicjitin)? with tli« a'sophiiniH, Ine other wiUi
the Biiiall intestines. 'I'ho lormer is callra Ine canliac orifice,
and is situated about tlie middie of the snml) curvature. It lias
a sort of valve formed by the duplication of its membranes, and
is kept constantly closed, except when food is jiassing.
The other orifice, called the pyloric, is situated at the riglit or
small end of the stomach, and Is usually open, but has tlie power
of closing. Thus situated, these openings are not far distant from
each other, and in tbe usual pDsition of the animal ibey are
situated superiorly. Thecc^oplmgus, just previous to its entering
llie stomach, makes an acute angle, by which means, m great
measure, vomiting in the horse isaVmost entirely forWddeii. The
stomach is kept in its situation princijuilly by the te&ophagiis
and the duodenum : but it is also attached by means of perito-
neum to the spleen, liver, colon, and diaphragm.
The stomach of the horse will usually contain about three
gallons.
The inti'Stincs an^ usually distinguished into tbe small and
tlie large. Tliey are more ^ulky and longer than in ibc haman
subject, Iwing nine time* the length of tlic body in ibe hone,
and only six times in man, a» demonttrated by Mr. IVrcivall.
Of iheae ninety feel of inteKtines the grx^^atcr part is formed by Oie
f>ma11 guts.
Tltey passes three conis; (he peritoneal, tlie muscular, and tlie
mucous : the fir^t, as its nnme implii,-», it fonnvd by the peri-
toneum ; the second is composed of two ordemof muscular fibres,
the external of which are nrrangerl in a longitudinal, and lite
internal iti a vertical direction, by which means the intestine can
lie shortened or contracted a* may Ix* n-rpiir<?d. Tlie internal
or muvou» roat i« of immense extent, being greater indeed than
the whole surface of tbe body. 'l'bi> com »i-creies a mucous fluid
for its prolectiWf is extremely vasmlnr, and is every where sup-
4
THE VtSCEHA OP TMR ABOOMSK, OR BELLT.
67
Hi* |iUtc reprctrali tlie InlmllaB*.
S, lUapcl.
9 9. tbt Mla\ar portion oT liia c Am.
4 4, ll* •uptriui )>iinian
5, !(■ infrrior md nnttnor curalurv.
A, It! ■upmioT unlcTioi cunalutc
7, Its pMrriui «ur<«IUTt.
R, 'nie nKMcalon.
10 ll> 10 ICk, Tlic jcguaum,
11 II. The ileum.
IS V2. TtK votaaUat J.
lit, llic rccluin.
pltptl with a net of vc«icl:t, callccl the IacIcaIs wliicli absorb the
nutritioua part of tlie fiiwl.
The small iiite^iiix-a in tlie hiiinnn Kubjerl nie ilistiiigutshed
into three, — t\ie Jiainhnitm, t\ie Jr/iinum, ami tUi- Ikum : nnd
although thes« namt-s mv tint applicuhli-, and their ilinliiictioriH hy
no means mniked, they are yel still preserved in the liorsie. The
Du-ulrnum ihcn, though twice twrelve inches in lenf;ih, is the first
part of the amall intestines; and being more closely bound bv
ptTiItHicuni, its motions arc more confined than the others, Ii
is connected by peritoneum to tlie right kidney, is larger and
more vascular than the other small guts, but shorter than cither ;
it is alto reddcT, aiid takes a siraightcr course than (lie othcrx;
and about ux inches from the stomach it receives the diiels or
tub«» of two important glands, the liver and the pancn-asi which
fact aJTordii a reason for the confinement of tliis gut.
Tlie JguHum and the Ilram float loosely about the abdo-
men, brin^ allaclivd to the spine by means of the mtventery.
Tlw latter gut is coiisidcrc'd to be longer than lln; former, but
there i* no proper distinction between the one and the other.
r i
te
STRirCTURE A>-» KCOSOMV OF THR ROtU.
Thvy are botli piilcr and Irn vowrulnr than llie diiodminn ; and
the jejunum, vfliicli joiim lh« dtiockmim, i* »oim>wlint ixrdtlcr titan
tlie ileum. Tlic i>iiinll intetuni'v togvtiu-r contain about eleven
pllons or fluid, and from iliem tin? chyle i« [)rinci{)a)lj- iibsorlied
by llie Inctfitl*.
The largi* itiit'Stttiet arc oonsidiTably more ra|)n<!mi» tlutn tlie
>n)idl, ih»uj:;h U-m hi length, and altogether nil) contain nineteen
gallon* of fluid. They are, with much more justice than the
oltiers, dintiuj^nlshed into three divisoiu ; the Cacum, the Colm,
and the itertam. Tlie small inteitines terminate in a wculiar
manner, by ]ircijectinff at right angles into a cavity, called tlic
blind head of tlic colon, at which place there is a valve which
prevents the food reiurninff. From this blind head the cawum,
wliich will contain about four ^llons, extends don-nwards and
forvrnrda into a blind extremitv, it tiaving, indeed, but one
npentnff. This gut may be considered as the principal receptacle
for fluids ; Tor it hn> been Ibuud that shortlv aftLT a lionte haa had
water, it has jmusi.-*) tlie whole length of the small guts, nitd
entered the ctucuin, whilst tlie solid food has bc«n loll bi'hind.
The internal surface of this gut is formed into cells, by- which
it is coniti<lerably extended.
On examining the inxide of the cu-cum, the part where the
ileum enii-r« will be found closed up by the internal coat,
being loou> and in fohU, *oinelhiiig like tlw i»art where tlte
cnoplitu^us euters the stomach. Tins kind of structure 'serves
M ft vnlve, and prevents tli* return of the excrt-ment into the
alimentary canal. It is necessary that the reader should bear
iu his memory ihc structure of tlii* part; for in fljitulenl colic,
in iiddition to the n-sistance nmde by this valvular structure to
the escape of the air which is geiterati.'d iu the stomach and
atimeiitary canal, the cfccnm is often so loaded with excrement
as to render the escape of air impn»sible without the assistance
of clysters, winch, W proptrlu mhniHwtrrfit, will completely empty
itie eiocuni and large bowels iu general.
The Coffm is the largest gm, containing as much as twelve
gallons, being more than the whole of the small intestine*. This
gill commences at the blind head in which ilie ilewm terminates ;
it quickly assumes a ffTeat siite, l)eing larger than the stomach;
it takes B course round the necuni, becomes coiisidembly smaller,
then makes a sudden turn, after which it again enlarges. It &^>n
diminishes, makes another turn, and endti in the rectum. The
first part of this intestine is formed into a number of folds by
means of three longitudinal hands, which, In-ing shorter than ilu-
inle*iiiie. causes it to [iiicker up. and form internally a number of
cells, bv which the food is retarded iu its nroaress. The second
prog
I
I
iwrt of the gut has only two of these bands, and the folds are
mtacti fewer in consequence.
THK VISCEHA OF TUB AUDOUEK, OU BELLV. 69
'I'be Jiectitm U a straight gut, holding about ihtvo gallons.
It haa no evils, and is only partially covered by pcritoneiimt
but ita niuwular coal is considerably (Stronger than the oihtra,
and enables it, with the assistance of ilie aiidomiiial muscles, to
expel the r^ceo. This gut terminates in tl)e anus, which is kept
closed by means of a circular muscle, called the sphincter ani,
which is alwaj'B in action, except when the dung is being
exptilled. The small intestines are about twenty-two yards in
lengtli, and tlie large about eight.
The LIVER, whose of&co it u to Bvcreto the btlc, is a gland,
and the largest onv m the body. It is conHiiod to tlir diaphragm,
and kept in its situation by strong portions of pM-itoneum, culled
its ligaments. It is divt<U-d pnrlially into thrt« lubei'; the right,
ihv left, an<l the midilk^ of which the former i» the largest, and
the lalier the smulli-st; hi-sidw iIkih? there are two tmiidl lobes.
Its figure, tlH'refore, is very invguliir, and it« colour bciwtvn
ntl nnd brown. It is supplied with nrteries for H* iiourishmcni,
with ilieir com4{(otuhng vein*, lo^^eilMT with nervu and ab-
sorbents; bfil, in addition to theM>, there are tome large veins
which convey to the liver bliu^, impure blood, from which it
secrete* or M-parales [i>e bile. The biie being thus secreted, is
conveyed by means of tlie hrputic <hict to the iluodenum, which
it enters about six inches from the stomach. Man and most
animals possess a gall bladder lor the reception of, and as a
reM*rToir for, the bile ; but the horse due« not possess any, so that
the bile is almovt continually being poiire<l into the bowels.
Hie reason of this peculiarity is, iliat the hone in n slate of
nature » continuiilly tecding ; having a small xiomaelt, it recpiin-s
frequent rei)leni.ihiiig, and, con!te(|uenlly, there is a continiiHt
deniiind for bile, 'llie ox, on the other hand, lilU his paunch,
and then cesses to eat lor some lime ; conset^itenily, Ite refpiires
a large supply of bile at particular periods, and tliU is allbnled
by nieaiuof • reservoir — the gall bladder. The bile Ik a yelliiw
bitter fluid, and its chief usci appear to be those of a ehcinic'd
agent, |>rontoiing the decomposition of the eliyme. and, aUo,
siimulaling t)»e secretion of mucus, and the peristaltic motion of
the intestiikes.
The Ptmawu, oi- Sicertbreofi, is also a gland which secretes a
thin watery fluid, similar to saliviL It lies close to the spine, is
connected with the diaphragm and the left kidney. It ia of a
pale red colour, and, like oilier glands is furnished with arteries,
veins, nerves, and absorbents, lie fluid is scparate<l from arterial
blood, and is conveyed into the intestines by means of a lube,
winch empties itself close to that of tlic liver.
The SpU«fi is a peculiar organ, loosely attached to the convex
|)onion of the stomach. Il >h about three poun<ls in weight,
»■ a
70
STRUCTURE AND KCONOMY Of THE IIORSi:.
long, and Inrp-r ftt one end than the oilier. lift colour is cxlor-
nally blue; but, witen cut into, is ih« saine as v4-noii* blooci, of
which it scctiiit niWL In iu siructiire, it ap[K>ars to comiat of
nutm'niuHcc-IU. ](*uie has long been a subject or difficulty ami
dit{>ulc with phyaiologUts ; but it is now suppciM'd to net as a
reservoir for superlliious fluid. It has bct-n n-movod from living
snimid-i, nhhout subjecting tliem afterwards to apparent incon-
Tenienci'; consequently, its purpose cannot b<' of vital imi»r-
lance. — Eik]
CHAP. XVI.
OS DIOBSTtOX.
[Tmf. horse is a vegetable feeder; in a stale of nature his food ii
confined to the gra<N« of the lieid ; and although in a domesticated
stale lie largely subsiets on nouiishmenl in a more concentrated
form, such as grain, yet it is impossible to make him lite on
animal food ; his teeth, bis stomach and inu-etincs, arc all adapted
for the comminution and digestion of vo;;elablcs: the former
are broad, tor the purpose of grinding the food as in a mill; and
the interlines are bulky, so Wi to contain a large quantity of
food.
Till* horse at grass is almost constantly feeding; be doos not,
like the ox, gather toffeiher large tufu of grass, but he takes a
short bite, and delignu in a sweet herbage. The manner in
which he gathers bis fuod is worthy of notice: be does not biu
it olf witli hiii loelb, but having closely embraced a short bile
between the incisor teeth or nippers, he pulls it oif by making a
alight motion of the hciid ; this is the only duly of these teeth,
for tlie Longuv ininicdialcly passes on the food to the molar leetll,
between which it is (ground a« in a mill. Tlie under molar teeth do
notextMid so wide us the upper, but by the lateral motion of tin-
jaws a Erinding process i* etfeeied. During the time the food
is thus Being ma&licat<.><], nn abundant supply of saliva is fiimished
by the various wdivtory gliuid.*, and the mft bolus is then passed
into the gidlel by iIk- tongue. IJy the muscles of the gullet or
pharynx the fuod is pit»e^l into tbir (iMnplioguR, by tJie miiecular
coat of which it is iinrced iniu the xtomiich.
In swallowing liquids » vacuum U tiirnu'd in the moiitl), and
the water is thus iiuckcd in, the tougiit.- forming a srirlof cliunnel
for its passage. In tliis ojH-raiion the lipn are tiurruundetl with
water, and the air cai-efully ixduded.
When grain forms the diet of the aniimd, the nippers have very
iitllc to do; they merely collect the food, which is tmiuierrcd to
t
I
DIORSTIOM.
71
I »
the molar tmli to Ik^ rfTcclualty grounrl. Mastication is, of
une, miKh slower wiili ihis food ihan witli gnus, otticrwiae
:■ ptirlioTi of iIk- fooil uoutd be swallowed w]iolp, and pasBcd
tliroujjli Ou- bwly without Imvln;; its niKnlious |)rii)cipic cx-
tmctMl; a circuiiMUitK.'e uhicli often liappeiis with v«ry greedy
AM-dt-n, and liki-wiiw in old liorsen, from the Iwlh Iw-ing im-
rfecU We have before remarked, ihaC the stoniAch of the
U very small in [iro{>»r[ion lo llit- mzh of the animal, for
fa<-t a reason innltorded hy the hiibits and pecniiaritiesof
le animal. 'I'Ik- ox. we find, lios no l(-«x thnn four stomachs : in
him the process of digestioit is coni[mrativcly tedious and slow,
for having filled bin paunch, he l>ecome» moi-e aUi^LCiiib and di*ii)-
clined lor motion : lieliei down, and his food undergoes a second
process, that of rumination.
Carnivorous animals have a capacious stomach, which ihev
nvenons)y fill with a large quantity of animal food, after which
ley become sluggish and lie down and sleep.
lite horse, however, in a natural state, is almost constantly in
loliun. He eats when he can, and as often as he can, and is
almost immediately afterwards prepared for flight. Having a stnall
stomach, it does not, even when filled, press so heavily against the
diaphragm as to impede respiration, as with other aiiinials we
Iwve mentioned ; and although the practice of working him on
a full stomach is by no mc^ns to be recommended, yet it is eur-
prising what exertions he is capable of even in this state.
^litts B horse, from being liirnished with a small stomach, is
rendered n)ore useful for purposes of speed, or draught, and
con»e<jiienily more Bcrviceable to man.
'Ilw food having entered the stomach, is there su)>miitc<l to
ihc action of a fluid secreted by the villons coat of the stomach,
and tcrmetl the gattrir juiet. This fluid i.* very [leculiar in its
nature, and lia« the power of separating the whey from milk. It
operated chemically on thi? food, and converts it into a noft pulpy
mus, called eliynie, in which slate it is piisMtl into the small
inteMines. To i-flV-ct this purp«is<-, the food is detained in ihe
stomach a eonxidcnihle lime, during which time it i^ pressed
upon by tlie mnieitliir coat of the stomach, and moved iitmut so
as to submit every [tortion of it to the action of the gastric juice,
l^iesioraach of tlie horse difreri> from tliut of earnivorous animals,
not only in the poise&sian of its cntieiilar coat, but likewise
in the fact of having a fundus or blind end, which serves the
purpose of detaining the tinod, making it necessary for it to
return almost to the same place where it entered the stomach
before it can pass into the duodenum.
Food is detained in the stomach different periods, according
to the lime required for its conversion; and it is found that if
both corn and grass be given a iiorse, that tlie latter will i)asa
F 4
Doin ci
72
STRUCTURE AND ECONOHT OF THE HORSE.
into llic du(Kl4>inim first, althoiifih pnipii some lime aft^r the
fonner. It has been sBccrtainca by Mr. I'ercivall thai corn
given to a coiidiiiiiifd borse, destroyed six tioiira arierwardi. still
remained in liie stomac)).
The pecuhar properties of the gastric juice are that of being
a powcrftd Bolvcnt, and an aniitcptic, and liaving a pon-er of
cooi;idalion. It is cauable of (bssolving the har(li>st malerialt,
mkIi as bones; and wiieii meat in a Matcof putrefaction tiasbeen
given, it has qutckly roinoveil all appearance of piitrescenc<e. Id
priipcrty of cmtgulntin;; milk and albuminous lliiids is useful in
converting a fluid into a colid Btiile, imd thus detaining it in Uic
Dtoniiich iinieli longer ttuut would otherwise be the case.
It is found, in ihi; hoDte, tiiat if a ([uantily of water be given
even just after lliv fund, it qui<:kly paii»e« through the stomacht
ami i* couvej-ed to the ctfcum, the priiici|Mil office of which
appi'iirii to lie thai of a n-ecpTacle fur lltjuid.i. Tlu-rv n little or
nodilliculty in iiapnd>aing thmii){h theMtomaeb, at ib«tivooriBcM
are not very distant from racli other ; iluia we diwiover another
use of the fundus in atfoixting a reservoir for ibe sc^idn withoirt
obsirncting the passage of liquids, besidefl the purpose of de-
taining the food longer in the siomach. li has been (bund hr
actual experiment (hat vegetables are longer digesting than
animal food.
In the human suhject, it has appeared that tlie too great use
of soups, abhoiigh containing a very large proportion of nutri-
ment, was yet productive of injury, from being passed too quickly
through the stomach.
I have found likewise, that when bniised oats have been girto
to liorM-N without luiy counteractive agent, it has l>een productive
of diarrlicL-ii, in all probability from the circumstance of being
^Kissed loo quickly through the stomach. And ihe vulgar vrny
of explaining the looseness in waslty horses is not altC^ethcT
destitute of foundation, " tlut the food does not remain long
enough in tht-m to do them good." During the active proem
ofchymiRciliun, a-i it is called, going on in the stomach, its Qj^H
ficcs arc in gnttt meuttirc rtused : but after it is effected tin M^^|
is gradually forced tlimugli the pyloric opening into the doo-
deninit, where it has to undergo llial further process of digestioti,
called ehylificatioi). The pyloric orifice is furnii^hud with a
circular band of fibres, covered by a fold of ihc villoitv or iicrvou*
coat, which appears to have, by its extreme sensibility, a power
of selecting tiial portion of the food which bns In-cn stifficiently
chymifi«tl. Not but what fo(id frcqui-mly pii»eK through with-
out living acted on by the gn-nric juice ; tor we find in binis that
•ecdM are frequently droppcil with the dung t» a |H-rfect state,
and in the ra.s:es of horses we may freqiKiitly detect grain in a
whole state.
j^Aus •toniach ia largely etipplied with nervous cnerj^-, hy ^
jpHJMvof wi important nerve, calle<l tlie par vncuini or piieumo- ^H
MJWric; and it has been found that on dividing tlii^ n^ve, ^|
jfm process of difteition lias cea^d, sliowinfi; how essential ihix ^H
A^v4 vt d^'it *tf^ 1^ m r^aticdtf^n Iri^i £i>i^niD#«1i a lift ( n/k liv-ain 1 1 liqa ltj^hv_ ■
connection ia between the iilomach and llie hrain. It lias, how-
ever, been found, that wlane galvanism has been applied to the
mutilated nerves, digestion has again coinnien<«l, and been
earried on for some time.
It kltould not be forgotten that the process of chymilication
iii very much assisted by tlie high leniperatiire of the Blomach,
which during the process is very much iiicrcasi-d.
TIte process of chymificiilion may lie disliirbed, and tlic fimc-
tions ol the stomach deranged, hy various causes, ^'c wp||
know that in ourselves fear and anxiety will both <Icslroy tlie
appetite and product.- dyspepsia, and in irritable liorMs the same
eftbct will be pro<luce<l. Cold appheil to llie skin wilt also
derange ll>c sloniitcli, ami mill more fn-qiiontly will disordered
Stomach (k-ninge the skin; so iniiniute is the sympathy bt^'twccn
theee parts. — Ki>.J
It ma born renuirked that cavalry horse*, stationed near the
sea. have rough staring coats, »rv hith^bound, and often other-
wise diseas4^<l : this prultably depends upon The bad quality of the
water in such situations. M. Colliiine, Proft-ssor of the VVte-
rinary .School at Milan, Myt, " 1 have n-markcd that in Italy
many corjw of cavalry, after being wUtioiKrd a few months near
the sea, have been strongly aflected with the larcy." I have seen
a largo (lose of infusion of tobacco cause violent shivering; and
in aomc experintcnts I once mode oit a glaiidcred horM-, thv
same efTfcl was tiniforiiily produced by a lat^i: dose of a solution
ofanMrnie. Many other ctriMiinstanceft might t>e adduced toshow
the coitiii'ction or nyinpalliy lliat exists between the digestive
organs and iIh- skin, or, in otlier words, tlic orgim of pcrspir-
Btion. Many of the disL-n!«es of cattle may be traoed to this
sotiive ; and the common term lAiti is by no means an unfit one
for many of ilw diseaseH of aiitle, especially when consideix.>d in
CO 1 1 !>!'«; t ion with the digestive orgatts, for on these the mischief
gvtH'rally fall:^ Soiuetinifj, however, the organs of respiiaiion
or breatliing sufler. or, in other words, the lungs; and so it is in
horaes, as will be shown in a future citapier.
Ftx>m the alx>ve eircunittances it will be seen how neeeasarj' a
lt«altl)y state of tlie skin is to the digestive process ; nnd wo
cannot ex]>ect a sinooili gloisy coat on a hoi-se uiileso he is kept
on wholesome food anu water. Thiii sympathy, or consent
between the stomach and skin, must de]iend upon their commu-
nioating with each other th)X>iigh the medium or intervcuiion of
tl»e nerves. It is obvious that the sensorium or brain must be a
iiit-ans of communication between all the nerves or organs of the
I
74
RTRUCTtTBt: AND ECOKOlfT OF THK RORSi:.
Imdy ; tliis is sltowii b^ making; n wotm<I in rite slciit, or by
wliipping the aniinal. '11)» {Mtitifiil imprt.'ssion on tl»c skin,
whicli is the oi^an of fwliiig. is comniiinioated wiili inconceir-
B,h\c rapidity to the Bcnsoriiim or mind ol" the animal ; and a
coiisiikTabli- degree of muscular motion takes place in cons^
quviicc. Bui, besides this common medium of nervous commu-
nication between tho skin and the ditfeslive organs, tliere U
R»otl)cr, through vrh'ich slight impressions are communicated
from one to the othtrr, that is, tlirough tlie great sympathetic
ntrve. Tlici-i; ts acircuiii»lancc to be kept in view with regard
In tlw conni*ction V-twit-n the digestive on^ns and the skin
whicii i* of » Ktrictly priiclicnl nature, and will be found of grrai
uac< If the horev't *kiii huf Ihxii brought to a higher dogrfie of
Kntibility than '» ■.■on«iiit>*nt with ihv purposes he is wanted for
by hoi stabkit, warm ctothitig, and rogidar grooming, it may
well he ex|>ectwl that t'xpo»nix; to cold and wet, ciprcinlly if Ik
has been healed .iiid fiiti|rii(-il by exercit^, will mnki- Mitch a pain*
ful or chilling impre^ioii u|ion the ^kin »« will Ixr communicated
to ihe stomach ; in cons<X|Ueui.-e of which tltciv will l>e a drpre»-
sion of appetite, if there U no food in the iitoinach ; and if ihat
organ has food in it, there will be ait interruption to, or a tu*-
Eeusion of, the digestive process. The bowels may be affectrd
y the same cause; and when the ehilline impression is strong,
even the heart mav be depressed. When this hanpens, the
blood accumulates in the lungs, ilie heart, and the urain, and
internal intlanimation or ferer may be the eonsetjuence. Another
evil arising from chills is asuppref»ion of the perapirable dit<
charge. eilTior wholly or in part. The excremeiititious parts of
the blood which would have pasted off ihrouf^h this outlet are
then thrown back upon the circulation, and cause some degree
of disturbance in the body, or fever, until thrown otfby the older
cmunctorles, In horses aiid calile the kidneys are considerable
emunctories, and are ctuiW excited to action j tliese readily carry
olf tho excromeittiliouB mutter as well as the superfluous serum
of the blood: but in chills ii often falls upon the mucous mem-
brane which lines lliv respiratory or air passages, causing cotigh,
sore throat, and running from the nostril^ often attended with
fever. The iiitpoitaiicc of the nervous system has not been
euRicipntly attended to in the Ireaiinent of horses and cattle.
It is only necessary at present to sliow how materially diges-
tion is inflitpncfd by it, not only in regard to the slate of the
skin, or to imprci.-Mons made upon its nerves whether painful or
otlHTwiitC) hut likewitie us it regards the animal's tnind and
temper. To obtain a perfect digestion, it is not sufficient to
Mujiply iIk> )ior«e liberally with good food and water; it isnecc^
Hury also that he slwuld be made comfortable by being kept in a
Muiiubic stable, and being properly groomcti, and in every
DIGESTION.
75
respect treated wjiS kindn^s. He should nerer be worked
beyond hia sirengili or condiiion. A liorse'a capacity for exer-
lioii or work depends not only upon liia general strengtli. but
upon hia habits, and upon the state of his healtli at the time he
is employed. Thus a i»oworful liorse, I'rom living welt, ajid in a
stAte of idleness, may, though looking fat and sleek, be unRt for
a moderate journey : or if by Urine in this manner hia stomach
has been cnlanjed and weakened, his hou-eh loaded with excre-
ment, and conscquonrly stretched and weakened, his liver, and
all the venous system, surcharged wiib blood, a moderate journev
may, under such circumatunce^ hrinf{ on n InUd disorder, ft
requires but liilh* rcfl«ction to perceive ihnt whatever comri-
batcs to easy digestion in ourselves will do the Haine in bontn ;
and ev»'ry one knows that calmness and chperruhies* of mind or
tempt-r arc conducive, if nol absolulrly ncceHtary, lo n pi-rfi-ct
digmion. Tht>« it is thiil liorsex which hiivr lict-ti iicciiMlnined
to com[Miny iuid kind treatmcnl pine and full off in condition
under dilTvrent nutnajji-nieni. Uld horiti'S thnt have been iiccui-
tomed lo warm xtabU^ oftcii fall off in appetite and condition
when placed in such at are cold. A damp stable, or letting a
current of air come tipon a hone's head, ea[i<-eially if he is
brought in vweatin;; from exerciM.', will m> f;n' chill llie iikin, and
inierriipt its fimclionx, w to ciiu.fr thnt excreitieniition.'' matter
which slioiild have bei*n <li!tcharged by the iikiii to fall upon the
inucouK membran<-M. Thone of tht^ Um^ or air pa-iKa^cx, are
freiierally iifli-cted, or rather most visibly atTected ; a* isi deauitetl
by couf^h, dulties* or wat(*ritig of the eyea, and discharge from
the noitriU: but the nmcous nierahrane of the aioniacli and
IxiwfU seldom e»cape9 uninjured, as is seen by the diminished
appetite, imperfi-ct digestion, and the looseness or alteration in
the state of the dung which follow.
[Shortly after the food enierj the duodenum it ia submitted to
the action of two fluids ; one furnished by the pancreas, and the
otlier by the liver. The pancreatic juice is ven,' aimilar to that
of saliva : its principal use, therefore, api)ear3 to be to dilute ihe
food ; hut it also contains much albumen, vrhich forms an import-
ant constituent in chyle. VVe can readily understand how csscn-
tial it is that a watery fluid should liere be supplied. In the
Uomach it would be unnecessary, indeed hurtful, as it would
liasten the expulsion of Its contents too rapidly ; but in the
intestines, in order that the chyle should be extracted, it is essen-
tial that the foo<l should be liquelied.
Tlie formation of chyle is the immediate result of the admix-
ture of ttte bile, which thus has a chemical action on it.
Tlic properties oflHlc ha%'e before been noticed, and its prin-
eipol vise is that above stated.
Chi/le is a thick while fluid, resembling cream when recently
STKUCTUItE AND BCDKOMT OF THB HOUSB.
extracUKl, but it soon scparalos iiKu a coa^ulum uikI a vau^p
fluid : it U found lo be nunpWL'd of minute globules, sinalleF
than those of the blood : iu la»tc is botli boui* and twi-pt.
The chTnic, when it vnicrs the duodcuum, itM a axisJdrrablc
auantity of acid in its composition; but as it itdvniicrs it it
eprived of tlii» acid, mid nikiili isfoniid to prepoiKJorato. This
cbaiioc is effected by thv bile, winch conlnini u large quantity of
blkalt, tlxr alkali combtniii]; with tbc muriatic acid of tlic cltynM-.
By this combiiuilioit carbonic »cid it »ct fret-, which ttcoounu lor
the prtwiice of tbiit giis in (be itiU-»ltiiv«. Tlivrc an- oilier gntci
tbund in the iiuc^timd eniiid, vrbieli in tlw ttoinacb pHncijially
consist of oxygen »ti<l iiiirofrcn, und, iii the large inle»titH.-s, of
hydrogen in several eoniliiuMlion:*.
Tbc greater part of (he chyle it extracted in the tmall intn-
tinvs by meant of the lnctenU ; but in the iufgfi inimiitrt aim
this proct-H go<>R on: for it bus been found that life )um been
iiiipported for !H»me time by nutritious itij(irlion«.
The food liaving entered (tie large iniextintt, it prevented fn3m
reluming by the valve at Itic place orenirance. The eolon urul
tlw necuni commence from the auine place, fto that a portion of
the food cnten each intestine. On examining the eawum uftrr
death, we find that iia contents are more watery than tlie otttortt
and it lian been found that vhen a liorse take* a large qiMntity
ol' water, it passes in the coiir^ of ten minutes into the c«cuni|
whose principal oBice may iherefora be conaidered a.s a re-
ceptacle for water. The inii>ortanceof such a reservoir iti the
horse i* very evi<leni, when we consider, on the oiiie haixl, ihc
imall titc of tile stomach, and on the other the large (juantily of
water, three or four gallons, taken at a time. A great (wrtion of
the coiiteiits of the e%cum h taken up by ttie absorbent vessel*,
and till' reniniiuler a returned to the place of entrance, and
pastes into the colon and mixes witli its contents. '1 'he structure
of the colon we have before noticed : its interior is tbrnied into
cells, it lias several convolulioiis, and il» diameter varies at
different parts.
This peculiar structure eminently qualifies it for detaining iu
contents, BO as to perfect the process of digi-ilioii ; lor it apfx-ars
tliat the large inlestinci in the horse serve a more important
service than in man or carnivorous animals, a much greater
portion of nutriment being absorlied in iheni. From the colon
tlie ffeces pass into the rectum in the form of balls of a tri-
angular sliape, having been so modified by the latter part of ^te
colon.
llic rectum, as its name implies ts a slrnighl gut acting as a
rcM-rvoir for the ftece^ and is furnished with a powerful mus-
cular coal, by ibe contractions of which it is, from lime to time,
*
DIGESTION. 77
expelled ; with the assistance, however, of the diaphragm and the
abdominal muscles.
The intestines, both large and small, are fastened to the spine
by means of a strong membrane, which is spread out in a radiated
direction, like a fan, the foci of which are of course towards the
spine. That part of the membrane which is attached to the
small intestines is termed the mesentery ; and the other portions
are termed the mesocolon and the mesorectum, according to the
gut to which it is connected. This membrane, which we may as well
designate as the mesentery throughout, not only serves to sustain
the bowels, but also to afford a vehicle for their important vessels.
TTius we have numerous arteries for the nourishment of the coats
of the bowels, and to furnish their internal secretions. We have
likewise the mesenteric veins, which have been found not only
to return the venous blood, but also to have a power of absorbing
the more fluid contents of the bowels, as well as some chemical
agents which have been administered for experiment, and which
the lacteals have refused. There are also a numerous supply of
nerves passing to the bowels, supplyinp^ them with nervous
energy, and keeping up their connection with the sensorium.
These are not only nerves of sensation, but also of involun-
tary motion: the former are at all times the medium of com-
mon feeling, and sometimes, as in spasms or inflammation, the
source of ^e most intense pain ; the latter endow the muscular
coat of the bowels with the peculiar peristaltic or vermicular
action it possesses, and by which the contents are passed onwards.
Lastly, the mesentery abounds with minute vessels, called the
lacteals, which open into the intestines, and absorb the chyle,
and convey it through a number of glands, called mesenteric
glands*, to a canal denominated the receptaculum chyli, which
takes its course along the spine, and terminates in a large vein,
just before it reaches the heart. The lacteals are so small as to
be ordinarily imperceptible to the naked eye ; and they seem to
possess a peculiar sensibility for the absorption of chyle, which,
however, is urged onwards by means of capillary attraction.
Thus the beautiful process of digestion is carried on, whereby
the grass of the field is gradually converted into the various and
complicated structure of animal frames. In this process it is
easy to believe how the imperfection of one part may neutralise
the operation of another, and thereby materially impair the eifect
of the whole. Thus, loss of condition, so often met with in the
horse, may arise either from deranged stomach or intestines,
from dise^ed secretions of the glands, or from obstruction or
disease of the absorbent vessels. — Ed.]
* Theiie glands BODietinie!! become hardened and enlarged ; and interrupting
the conTBe of thf ct^le the tmiinal losei fleih.
mttrcTroitc and ecomouv or TnB Mouse.
CHAP. XVII,
^
OK THE L'RINARY OIIOAMS.
QTiie urine is separated from the bl<x>d by means of (he kidncyti
two glaiHls of well-known ^lape, lying one on cacli side of tJie
n>ine, imniediately under the Uimliar rericbrw. Unlike tbe
liver, their ]ower eur&cea only are covered by peritoneum; aixl
ihvy arc kept in their siitmiion partly by cellular n>cinbra>ie
which altactics them to the p^as mtiscles almve, and to ilte
neighbour] 11(1 parts ; partly l>v llic fat in wliich thoy arc intbcdded;
but still more by \avjiv and niipartaiit blood vcsscIei winch enter
ihe gland at the notch in its centre.
On cuttinjf into the kidney, tve find that the outer part ie a
rlark Tvd, ni»d tlir inner a lighter colour: tlie rormer is Ii-rmMl
ibe conicnl, and tln^ luller thv medullary part; ami tbe lub-
tcance of tite former niTi)i into llitr latter. Tlw kidney* aix- covrrwl
by a menilii-iine pi-ciiliur to it«-lf The blood cnit-r* the kidney
at ita notch by im-iins of the eniulgeiit artery, wliieli dividi-s into
four or five branches, taking their eour»o towards ibc cortical
part, where they end in minute vessels 'Hieite vesselk, wlticb are
exceedingly numerous, terminate in little globular bodies, by
which the urine is separated. TiiesuiK-rnuous blood is retunied
by the veins; but the urine is conveyed by a particular act ot
vessels into a reservoir, called the pelviK, sitiiaii-d in the mo-
duUary pari of the kidney. l''r»m tbo |>elvi» of tbe kidney arise*
a long wliite tulxr, called the ureter, whidi leaves the kidney at
its notch, and runs along the lumbar vertebrte to the pelvis of the
body, where it is attached to the upper and lateral part of tlie
bladder, on which ii continues its course towards the neck of tbe
bladder. Before it reaches tlic neck it disappears, by penetrating
the external coats of the bladder, passes a short distance, ana
then teriniiiulcs by piercing the inienial coat in au oblique
direction.
The kidneys are well supplied with nerves, wblcli enter tbem
with the blood vessels.
Near the kidneys are two small bodies, called the capsula-
renales, whose vsq is unknown.
I1)c BLADDEli is situated entirely within the cavity of llie
pelvis, when in an undisiended slate ; but when full, s portion of it
projects into the abdomen. It is attached to the |>elvis by Cellular
membrane, but is chiefly kept in it» situation by means of peri-
toneum, by wbieli it i» purlially covered. It is placed at the
lower )>ni't of ttie {kelvis, Itiiving iinniediiitely above it tbe rectum
ill tlie male, and the vagina in Uic female. TIk bladder ifl
THE UltlNART OHOAX8.
79
usually distinguished into three {nrts : the Tundus, the body, and
die cervix, or neck. Tlie fundus is the round extremity, wliicb
often projecia into ibe abdomen ; the body forniB ilie principal
bulk of tne bladder; and the cervix is the posterior narron- part,
which, however, a thicker than the rest, and is united to tlie
urethra.
The bladder is composed of three coats: the external, tlie
internal, and the muEcular. Tho former is formed by peritoneum^
and covers the anterior part of the bladder only. The internal,
or mucous cost, foriiu the principal thickness of the bladder, and
secretes a mucus for iu interiml lubrication, and to prevent
tl>c irritating vfTccI* of lltr urine. Tlii* eoAt pOMCssva much sen-
sibility, aiul is largely supplied nitl) nerves. The muscular oont
is compoK-d of two orders of fibres, longitiidiiiiil and circular;
tlic former of which will diminish the icnf^tli, and tlie latter the
breadth, and lite united contriwiion of both will lessen die cavity
M M to ex|Mrl the conientK.
The m-ck of iht^ bladder a more abundantly furnislicd with
circular fibres iliati tlie other jHirts, and their omce in thta sltiui-
tion is to prevent the urine from escaping by closing the cavity.
Tlieae fibres, when contracted from spasm, occasion a retention
of tliM uriiK>.
The urine i> discharged from the body through a membranous
canni, called the uretlmi, which, in tlie male, is of coiuiderable
length, extending from iht- bluddi-r to the extremity of the penis.
It first lakes a course from tlie neck of the bladder backwards,
and becomes increased in size, and approaches vcn' near the skin,
being, indeed, just under tlie anus; it then Kirms an acute
angle, tuniiug downwards and forwards, and is here surrounded
by a muscle, called the accelerator urinae, and continues to tlic
extremity of the penis.
In the female the pa&^age is considerably shorter, being about
two iiKhes backward) and slightly upward, when it opens into the
pudendum, and is connected with tfie organs of generation.
The UriHe is a fluid secreted or scjiarated by the kidneys,
and poured by dicm through specific cliannels, the nrefm, into
the bladder. Iu a state of licHlth it is of an ninber colour, and
its peculiar odour is well known. It U composed chiefly of
water, which contains some salts, and a p<-culiar substance,
called nreo, to which its properties arc more ]i»rticular1y owing.
The colour of the urine is much lighter after a large quantity of
water hn» been drunk; ami darker, and more ncrid, after xolid
fijod. There is a great sym[M>lhy between the kidneys and the
skin ; an tlw Mecretioii of the one increiu'es, that of the other
diminishes: when hones sweat much, they nriiie little, and inee
tvrtd. 'Hic urine is separated from the blood, which is convej'ed
to titc kidneys bj die emulgent aru-ries; these orgatui, therefore,
STKUCTttnC AMD WOVtUtt OF TtlK HOItaE.
Berre Htv puqxirp nf st^uirntln^ ihv t-xcrcni^iit from the sy&tcm,
and convcjirif; il awiiv: nnd it t« u1m> ihuuf^it they serve an
office subonliiiHlc to llirKkiiii — lliat ofmnoving the stiperfluout
fluk] titat is iiot nctiiiilly n-qiiin.'H by the skiiif or cooling l)ie
body by hh-hii* of (MTKpirntioii.
'l'h<- H/a</rf(vi», of cown«-,ji ri-w-n-«ir for the iiritH', prcvcniing
tlw gn-M iiiconv«iiipncr that would ivsult from disc))ar;;iiig die
urine as liut as it is itecreled. It received iho urine by meanB of
tl»e uretera, and sufTers it to ac4!uniulate to a rertAiii di<give,
differing in different iiKlividunb: it ttiiMi prnduco* nn uneaty
feeling, which inditi^eH ihe animal to di»clinrge it. The act of
staling K (lierc-lVire a voluntary ael, but t)»e incliiiatinn urj^ing
It is much afTeeied by nervous influence; e. if. lear, and anxiety
of mind, will repeatedly cause a dieposition lo urinate, boUi in
tite Iwrsc and innian.
The act of staling is more simple in the mare than in the
horse; and in the fonner a retention of urine is much rarer,
and is moif easily removed, which is owing to tlve striii^titniw
and shovliiess of llie canal in iiMres, and the great lengtli ui)<l
obliquity of (he external passage in horses.
In the urinary act th« horse stretches out his legs, and after
■ few tn<nn(i)i*' preparation, in witicit he inspires a greater quan-
tum of nir ihun common, he expels the urine by the cnnjoini
I'Uaisianrv of ilie diaphragm, the abdominal mueclos, and ninvniliir
.coat of the bladder. Tflwnrds the conclusion of the act. the
txpiibion of the urine from ihc urethra is assisted by a small
muscle, called the aceelerator urintc, wiiich clears tite pasMge
from tlie last drop. The marc has, likewise, the power of ejectinjT
llic last portion of the urine, by inverting repeatedly the nyniplis
aiKl clitoris. — £».]
CHAP, xviir.
TIIK OROANS or OKMSRATION.
[TuE Organt of Ofurntit'H are iniinialely eontu-ctcd with
parts last meuiioned; itiey are in both »exe« very complicated j
but in this place a general descripliuii niuit MiSc<'.
In the male we Jind glands to »ecri>t(; ihe prolific fluid, and an
instrument to convev it to the neccuary rt.-oe])tacl« in the femalei
tlw tirst arc called the testes, the oilier h the penis.
The Teiirs or Tttiieten arc two glandular lHi<li(>s, tus|>end<-d
lietwecii the lhigb#, and contained nithin a bug calltxl tlic scro-
Tliey are uf an oval shai>e, tlatienwl at tIte »idie%, and
THE ORGANB OF OENERATlON. 81
lomewhat about the size of a hen's egg when full grown. To
iie upper and posterior part of the testicle is attached the vas
iefi^rens; and to the upper and anterior end is joined the sper-
matic cord, by which the gland is suspended, and retained in its
dtuation.
The substance of the testicle is soft, and of a light brown
iolonr. At the upper part of the testicle is found what is called
[be Epididymis, which is composed principally of a white tube
xmtaining semen, coiled up so much that when unwound it
Ims been found several yards in length. The epididymis is
laiger at each extremity than in the middle. These extremities
ire called the globus major and minor. The former, and larger,
'm situated towards the front; and the smaller globe is found
Eowards the back part of the testicle: from the larger globe,
prhich is commonly termed the nut, and is indeed about the size
if a small walnut, the vas deferens arises.
The Spermatic Cord, by which the testicle is suspended, is
Minposed of numerous parts, although not by any means bulky.
in their structure. There are, in the iirst place, no less than
Four distinct coverings; one of which, called the cremaaler, is
muscular, and has the power by its contraction of drawing ilp
ibe testicle. The other parts of the cord consist of arteries, veins,
ogives, and the vas deferens.
The arteries are two in number; a small one, belonging to
[he cord; and a larger one, the spermatic, supplying the testicle
itself, and from which the semen is secreted : from the latter the
principal bleeding takes place in the operation of castration. The
reins are large and numerous, and accompany the arteries in
[heir course, together with the nerves, which are also numerous,
ilthough small, and the absorbent vessels, which are likewise
lumerous.
The Vas Deferens, as the duct which conveys the seminal fluid
is termed, forms a part of the cord, which can readily be distin-
niished from the other parts, being stout, and firm to the touch.
It springs from the small end of the epididymis, at the anterior
MTt of the testicle, and consequently does not at first join the
)ther parts ; it, however, gradually approaches them, and enters
,he abdomen with them, when it ascends to the pelvis, and
msaes by the side of the bladder, about an inch posterior to
vfaich it terminates in another duct not yet described.
The Scrotum, or bag in which the testes are found, is com-
MMed of several coverings. We have externally the skin, which
■ soft and thin, and usually dark. It is equally divided by a
ongitudinal crease, called the raphe. On cutting through the
kin, we find a layer or coat, supposed to be nmscular, called in
luman anatomy the dartos. It is loosely connected by mem-
irane with the skin and other parts ; and a portion of it passing
o
BTIIWCTOM AVO ECOMOMT Or THS HORSE.
iipwartU from the rapli«, divi<lt>s (tie scrotum into iwo njual parn.
aiid thus separates tfi« teaticlvs from cbcIi otlM.'r.
The tliira covering of lh« scrotum is formed by cciliilnr mom-
brane. The usiiclos tbemsplvcs Imvv two coats ; oiic intiniatdy
connected with lUv gland itself, and thv otbcr cxtrrnnl to lliii,
end common to both iho tt-ctick- and llif cord. I'he luttcr s
CsIImI tunica vuginulis, or vagituil tunic, an<l is foritic-<l of peri-
toiivtim, and nccom|)antos the- testicle in its dvsocnL AfliT vnvo*
loping lliv cord und llic testicle, it is reflected, » as to invest
them (I second time, and is ihcncv calli.>d itie tunica refleu-
B<-lwwn these two nu'iidiratic* ii fluid is wecretcil lor ilie lubri-
aition of tlie parts, wliich .spurts out in tlie operation of autm-
tiun.
In performing this ogieratioii, wc tlicreforc lir«t cut ihrou^b
tlH> skin, next tbe librous coat, llien tbc oellulur covering ; these
nienibranes belonging to tbc scrotum. Tim kiiilc next <lividH
the tunica vngiiialis, on which the fluid before wjiokeii of spurlf
out, and tlie testicle springH from the Itog throiiLfh the inciaion.
Thua, by one stroke of the knifo, we sever no Icis tluiii three
coverings, besides the skin; but there is no occasion to cut
ilirotigh the reflected coat or tunica albugineo, as tt>e white coat
immediately enveloping the testicle is termed.
'I'he testicles at birth are, like those of man, contained within
the scrotum; but, after five or six months, ihcy arc drawn up
between tbc externa) and internal alKloniiiial rings, where tiii'y
remain six or seven months, and then again uesccnd to tbe
scrotum.
The abdominal rings are two on egwh sidej the external and
the iiitenial ; the former is the opening in the transrerw muscin
the laller in the fascia, or strong monmrane, which irometlialcly
contains the intc^tinos. Tliey are not placed opposite each other,
but about three Inches apart, tlie external rin^ being situated at
the posterior inferior part of the abdomen. The testicle t
loo, hiis n coat of ]N-ritonvnm ; and, when it leaves tlx.- abdoi
it itirecM that portion of the peritoneum which closes iIh- opci
with it| and carries It down to the scrotum, thus aceoinitiiig for two
things, — the double nieinbrane of the testicle, «imI tiwcirctiift-
Ktance of the open conuiinnlcAtion existing betwivn the ticrotillD
and the abdomen, which, indeeil, is the principiit source of the
dangerou.i symptoms which sometimes supervene after tlie opM>
atioii of caitrution.
The Prnit, which gcrve* tlic double office of aflbrding a pas-
sage for the urine, and ejecting the lemcn, is « long flwhy body,
attached to the pelvis by ligiuneiits and muscles. It Li composed
of several dislitici jiarts, besides its muscles, which are, first, a
pair called iIk ertdon, situated at the root of tlie |>eiiis, and at*
tached to the bones of the pelvis^ which iwist in the erection of
ctiai
THE OBOAH8 OF GENERATION. SS'
the OT^n, by promoting the influx of blood. Then we have a
small triangular muscle, situated at the root of the organ, besides
the Accelerator, which envelopes the urethra, and ejects with
force both the urine and the semen.
The body of the penis is formed principally of two tavemous
bodies, which, by the power they possess of containing a large
quantity of blood, increase almost suddenly in size, and thus
cause the erection of the penis.
The extremity of the penis is called the glans, which, in its
distended state, is large and rounded, and is the counterpart to
the mouth of the uterus in the female, to whicli it is applied in
the act of copulation. At the extremity of the glans is the mem-
brane to the urethra, which, in some measure, projects beyond
the glans.
At the commencement of the urethra, near the neck of the
bladder, are found three small bodies, called the prostate glands,
one of which is much larger than the others. These glands
secrete a white fluid, or mucus, which mixes with the semen pre-
vious to its ejection.
The penis of the horse, in its flaccid state, is not usually seen,
being aitc^ther situated within its sheath, which is formed by
loose folds of skin, reflected on the body of the penis, so as to
permit the ready prcyection or retraction of the organ.
Within the sheath are situated a number of small glands,
which secrete a white odorous substance, which often collects,
and becomes offensive ; and sometimes insinuates within the ure-
thra, and obstructs the passage.
The teminal Jiuid, from the place of its secretion to that of its
departure from the body, traverses a considerable length of
passage; that of the urethra alone being nearly two feet
It is secreted by the minute branches of the spermatic artery,
whence it passes into small tubes which convey it to larger ones,
which from being assembled in the form of network are called
the rete : thence a still larger set of tubes, the vasa eflerentia,
eonvey it from the testicle itself to the epididymis. The
epididymis, which we have before observed lies on the upper
part of the testicle, receives the semen from the vas eflerentia,
which unite at the anterior part of the epididymis, and terminate
io a single duct several yards in length when unwound, hut coiled
up in the small compass of the large head or nut of the epidi-
dymis. From this part the vas deferens proceeds, which, joining
the cord, enters the abdomen through the ring, and traversing
the pelvis, conveys the semen to about one inch posterior to the
neck of the bladder.
The Vencvia Seminalis, oblong membranous bags, are supposed
to act as reservoirs for the semen ; they are situated in the space
between the bladder and the rectum, and open by means of
o 2
smocroiiE ako kcokomt or tbe rorsc.
(Iiicis into ilie (irca)ira, very unu* tlie lermitution of the vas
detttvau
Tlit> rvimilc organs of getwration are uaually cl&sse^I by ana-
UtinUu into lliv <-xtenml niid the intenial. Ifie o[>eiiing juit
under i)>c auu», »o miidi litr^-r in lirood mnre*, is Urnii-d tlii;
jiudoiidum or vtiira, ami h runiir'i by the labia or liju oit eodi
side, the jilaceii of junction of vrhicli above and below are lermed
the commiiaiire.i.
Tile iMbia Pudentli are covered exiernally willi 6ne soft ikin,
penemlly of a dark colour, under nliicli itiere ii a Tatty and
fibrous aubstanctf, nbich Torms their principal bulk. Within the
vulva, the labia are covered by a mucous ntembraiie, aod
ppiMcat lonte degree of muscular power, which is exemplified in
mares afier staling.
On separating the lips of the pudendum, we ftnd at tlie lower
tiart, (he clitoris, a fleshy body, somewhat analogous to the peuii,
laving like it a power of ei-ection, and funiishcd with muscles
for the pur|)Ose.
Anicrior to the cUlorU and about four inches from the vulrn,
we fnid the commencement of the passage to tbe bladder, ibe
meatus ui'inarius. It is large enough lo admit the finger, it
about two inches in length, and passes downwanls and forwanU
to the bladder; it« cntmiicc is guarded by a m<MnhrMnr, which
lie* upon it, and thus nets n¥ a valve.
'ilie Inlrrnal Ort/<ms of <;eneralion are the vagina, the uterm,
liwfitUojnaH lubes, and ovarii.
Till' Vagina U B cylindrical canal of great dimensions, being
eighteen inches in length, extending from the vulva lo t)»e uterus-
It is situated between the rectum above, and the bladder below;
is partly membranous, and partly nHiscuhu' in its composition;
aiiu is lined internally by u mucous mcmbnme, which is col-
lected in loose fold*.
'I'he Uteru*, or womb, in the mart>, in very singular in shape,
baring a body, a neck, and two horns; the body is tltc cjlin-
drical part, having tbe neck Wbind and the horns in front; llie
neck is the posterior contracted part, which projectn into the
vagina; it presents a wrinkied Itower-like uppeamicie, and hiu
in its middle an opening into the vagtiui, mlleu the oa uteri, llie
hornfi which are each almost as large as the body, proceed
backwards from it, diverging from each other. 'riM?^- proceed
upwards, into tlie abdomen, and end in round extremities, to
which are connected the lallopian tubes.
The uterus poesesses considerable slrength, which is chiefly
owing to its thi^ fibrous coat, which, during gestation, ponesses
great contractile power.
The Falhpian Ttdia are two vei-y small lubes, about an inch
FUNCTIONS OF THE GENERATIVE OROANS, ETC. 85
and a half in length, leading from the horns of the uterus to the
ovaria.
The Charia or female testicles are considerably smaller tliati
the male organs, which in shape they resemble, being about the
size of walnuts; they are situated in the abdomen, a little ante-
rior to the kidneys, and are loosely connected to the spine by
membrane. They are well supplied with blood vessels and
nerves, and snpply small ova or vesicles, one of which, during
copulation, is conveyed through the fallopian tubes to the uterus,
and being impregnated by the aeminal fluid of the male, becomes
the germ of a new animal.
The operation of spaying, so often performed in the pig, and
sometimes on the cow and mare, consists in making an opening
at the flank into the abdomen, and introducing the finger, with
which the ovaria are brought out and cut oflp.
The Udder of the mare is situated at the lower and back part
of the abdomen between the thighs; in the virgin state it is
exceedingly small, but towards the latter period of gestation en-
larges considerably, and a few days before parturition milk is
secreted.
The udder is a glandular structure, well furnished wiih blood
vessels, by which the milk is secreted, which is then poured into
specific canals, which convey it to the teats or dags, the ex-
tremities of which arc pierced with three small holes, for the
exit of the milk. Both udder and teals are covered by soft
skin, generally of a dark colour. — £o.]
CHAP. XIX.
OH THE FUNCTIONS OF THE GENERATIVE GROANS, AND THE
GROWTH OF THE FffiTUS.
[The purpose of the complicated structures which we have de-
scribed, both in the male and the female, is the preservation of
the species. For this purpose, it is not only essential that the
seminal fluid should be ejected into the uterus, but that tbe mare
should be in a state fit to receive it. The human female is in
a state fit for breeding all the year round; hut in the mare this
state only exists at the period of horsing, which is generally
confined to the summer, and the early part of it. Mares go
eleven months with foal ; but they usually exhibit the disposition
to copulate, which is well known by the increased heat and
swelling of the parts of generation, and the emission of a while
fluid, about nine or ten days after gestation, and at intervals
afterwards of a few days at first, and then about three weeks
from this time ; the brood mare is consequently enabled to hreed
o 3
ee
SMtPOtm AXD ECOKOKT OF THE BnXBE.
a colt per nniium, for several sucoeesive ye&rs. Tfie Blaltion
beiiif; higlilj- TimI, altlwiigh he impr^natcs n great many mares
ill tlie course of the Beaton* is yet very soon excited to tlie act
by ilie presciKe of ilie salacious female. 'Hie testicles are drawn
up anil the penis is quickly ereclcd by llic sudtlen acciimulalion
ot blood in its cavernous subsunce and glans, which by tlie
angle formed at the root of tlic penis is prevctiicd returning.
In llm state, the leap having been taken, the penis enters llie
female parts, and tW glans, by succes^vc cHbrts, ia pushed
against the oe uteri, to which it exactly corresponils. The fric-
tion of tlir parts produces exquisite pIcaiHirc to both sexes, at the
climax of which the semen is ejected into (lie utfrus with con-
siderable force. This done, the act ts conipletecl on the part of
the male, the penis becomes llacctd, and is withdrawn, and the
feeling of lassitudv succeeds the inten«ily of pleasure.
The female often rejects the temeii shortly afterwards, lo pr^
renl which, it is sometimes custaitiar>' to throw cold water over
the loin* to diminish the excitement of the parts, and thus caiue
llicm to rctnin tho prolific fluid. Bleeding Ims been somcttmn
practised with (he snine view, and, it is staled, witii success.
When ttie mare is impregnated, the os uteri is closed, and
tlH're is no longer a dispooition for (he Itorse; this rule, howevtri
is not without exceptions.
Tlif phenomena which supervene in the female uterus after a
SlicccBHful impregnation have been the subject of much dispute,
and are siill mun-ouiidod with mystery. 'I'lie Otaria arc found
to be composed of vesicles, or sacs, which contain a fluid, within
wlitcli arc small bodies called ovula, and which un', indeed, die
germs of vonng animals. Whether the seminal fluid is conveyed
by the fallopian lubes to the ovario, and there impregnates aii
ovulum, as is siip|>ose(l, or whether the vesicle bursts indepen-
dently of the copulative act, and is then conveyed to tli« uterus
theru to be impref^naied, or not, we cannot determine.
Tlie ovulum, being impregnated, is ternteil (lie ovum, aitd on
de])arting from the ovarium leaves a scar behind, which ia called
a airpnx luleum.
The impregnated ovum, «oon after its arrival in th« ulen»,
becouK^ firmly attaclicd to this body, prior to which n quantity
of blood is determined to the uterus, by which a tubitancc re-
tenibliiig lymph is secreted, which furnishes not only a lining
membrane for the uterus, but also fur the ovum itself. Tlie
former is termed llie decichious, iind ihc lalUT the rellecti^ coat;
and each of them soon becoming abtiixlanily fiirni»lic*l with blood
vcKM-ls, they toj;etl»-r are c.illed the I'lncrnta, and the ftcius is
thereby »upplied witli noui'inhincnt. The vessi-ls of tlie mother,
and (liose nf the fcetus, do tvot communicate with each otlier by
any direct clianiiel ; but it is sup[>osed that the fietnl ves»ela
FUNCnONB OF THE OEMERATtVE OROANa, ETC 87
derive nourishment and purification by a sort of imbibition from
the mother's blood.
The ovum, on leaving the ovaries, is furnished with a mem-
brane, called the Amnios, which afterwards increases in size, and
furnishes a liquid in which the fcetus floats, comparativety free
from danger, and in all the ease and luxury of an hydraulic bed.
It is supported in its situation by the umbilical cord, or navel
string, which is nearly three feet in length, and is composed of
the blood vessels, and a canal communicating with the bladder,
and proceeding from the navel of the fcetus, and passing to the
deciduous membranes of the mare, litis canal is called the
urachus, and serves to convey away the superfluous water that
the Ibetal bladder would be incapable of containing.
The circulation of the blood in the fcelus, it is evident, must
be very different from that after birth. Nourishment is not
afibrdM by the stomach, bile is not secreted by the liver, nor is
the blood purifled by the Itmgs : these organs are only supplied
with nourishment sufficient for their own support and increase.
The arteries belonging to the maternal portion of the placenta
terminate partly in veins, and partly in exhalent surfaces : from
these exhalent surfaces, the minute branches of the umbilical
veins of the fcetus absorb blood in a comparatively red and
purified state: they convey this blood into the fecial circulation
through the vein, which, in the animal after birth, is wholly en-
g^ed in supplying the liver. It will thus be seen that the
umbilical veins convey red blood, and the umbilical arteries black
blood, contrary to the usual custom. The blood from the um-
bilical veins, as well as the lower part of the body, enters both
sides of the heart at once, and a small portion is thence sent into
the lungs from the right ventricle, whilst the largest portion is
distributed to the system from the left ventricle.
There is a communication, too, between the aorta and the
pulmonary artery, by which the blood not required by the lungs
IS sent into the system through the aorta. It will thus be seen that
the heart of the fcetus, though double in its construction, is single
in its office; and, in this respect, is very analogous to the single
heart of some cold-blooded animals. No sooner, however, does
the animal breathe, than the right side of the heart has an inde-
pendent office to perform, and the communications before spoken
of are closed up. — Ed.]
G 4
STRUCTURE AND ECONOMY OF THE HOnaZ.
CHAP. XX.
ON THE PRtNCtPt.T.S AND PRACTICK OY RKEKDINU.
[TuE comparative inlluence of the male and femalo in llir ibrmi-
tion of t)>e ofFspriiif; lias been the subject of mucli dispute umoDgtt
[>1)}'siolD}{isU. and isanialter on vrhich there is slill much difref
cnce of opinion. Sotno conlentl, that tl>e influeiiee ofltH; malcU
every thing, and that ilic female only allbi-ds tlie soil fur llie
nourishment of lliefcctus. Oihcrsaigue, that llie seed in ailordMl
by the female, who iias therefore the greatest influence over tlw
future offspring, and that the male only ei^ciles this seed into tiw
action necessary for the production of the youiij;; animal, llie
question, hovrever, is not to be decided by anatomy, or physioloni
but only by the evidence of a number of practical results. 'iTie
germ of the future offspring is certainly supplied by the female;
but still the form and qualities may he the eflect of tJte male,
just as the dticlilc wax receives vvhalevcr impression tlie stamp
may be calcuhtcd lo produce, wla-dicrthc head of a prince or that
of a ]>easant. We must therefore look only to facts, lo decide
the point. It is a matter of i>ome impurlaneein thebreeding of
animals to have as correct views as possible on this subject, for
it is too frc(|iieully the ciim- thut either one parent or the otlwr
b entirely disri'garded iti ilie choice, and the result is a weakly,
Ifiiongrel, or bad-shaped animal. In crossing the breed of
' animals I think it will he found that tlic oflBpring turns mwlly
after the sire twlh in shape and in size. The common mule
begotten by the male ass out of the marc certainly discovers a
much Mroiiger affinity in shape and size, and in disposition toO|
10 his plebeian sire, than to liis more arisloeralic dam. The
lengthv ears, the narrow foot, the coarse head, tlie light and
wiry limbs, the comparatively insensible skin, arc all derived
from tike aM,and even lii» sixc is more accordant to the sire ilian
to llie dam. It must be borne in mind, that the large Spuiisli
mules that we oceasioiially see are begotten by asses of great
silt!. In the breeding of sheep, it is found tliat (he qualities of
the ram preponderate over tlmse of the ewe, a tact which is well
illiislraled hy the crois between tlie South Down ewe and Uie
|.CotMwold or Leicester ram, in which the progeny very neariy
iipprnactM» the Cotswold both in size, length of wool, and seneru
apiK-anince. In hordes it is surprising wliat large animals pony
marcs Mill breed when covered by horses much laigt^r than ihcm-
selvof, and it is rarely the case that a large roomy inai-c will
produce n colt that will reach her own size, if put toasmallatidlion.
There are of course exceptions, but such is the general rule.
TBE PHINCIPLES AND PRACTICE OF BREEDING. 89
From these facts, I think we are justified in concluding that
the influence of the mare is superior to that of the horse, and that
the ofispring, in shape, size, and general qualities, turn more after
the father than the mother.
This fact, however, will bj' no means justify that total indif-
ference as to the qualities of the mare, so generally pursued,
particularly by farmers. When a mare is unfit for every other
purpose, she is generally considered worth something for breeding,
whereas, in many cases, it would be more prudent and economical
to destroy the poor brute, than suffer her faults and misfortunes
to become hereditary. For, although the influence of the horse
may be greater than that of the mare, yet the bad qualities of
the latter are just as likely to be hereditary as those of the sire ;
and indeed any constitutional defects, such as a scrofulous dis-
position, are more likely to be derived from the mare than the
horse, inasmuch as the intimate connection between the maternal
and fcetal system is considerable before birth, and is kept up after-
wards by means of the milk. It must not be forgotten, too, that
amongst mares and horses kept for breeding the proportion of
bad mares is greater than of bad horses. A horse is rarely
preserred entire, and used generally as a stallion, unless he has
some excellences ; whilst, as before observed, it is very frequently
the case that the only claims a mare has to the embraces of a
horse are her unfitness for every other purpose.*
A bad mare will scarcely ever produce a good colt, however
excellent the horse may be ; and although a very superior stallion
maybe introduced in a country where the qualities of the horses
are bad, and the benefit may be immediately perceptible, yet it
takes some years and several generations before the character
of the stock is materially changed.
The Arabs of the desert, we are told, prize their mares in-
finitely beyond their horses, and while they part from the latter
freely, yet nothing can induce them to give up their favourite
mares. To this scrupulous attention to the female is doubtless
chiefly owing the fact of their preserving their race of horses free
from degeneracy, and in such great perfection for so many years.
While tney preserve good mares they cannot have bad horses,
whereas had they allowed degeneracy to creep in amongst their
mares, the qualities of their horses could not have supplied the
deficiency.
It is a question, however, whether they would not have im-
proved their race of horses still more, if they had bestowed more
of that scrupulous attention on the sire which they pay so ex-
clusively to the dam. And although, from the impossibility of
* Straage reuoDs are Bometimes given for breeding. On asking a fnend
why he put a little plain, though Fast marc, to the horse, he replied she was
very poor, and he thought it would do her good.
80 ETRUCTURE AND ECONOHY OF THE BOBSB.
getting the choicest Arab mares, we cannot reduce their powen
to a fair comparison with our own, yet, from the great ease with
wliich our second-rate liorscs have beat the Arabs, some of them
perhaps the own brothers of their favourite mares, I am in-
clined to think that if even their choicest mares were entered for
tliosc of our stakes confined to the feminine sex alone, we should
find that the pride of the desert would be unable to wrest the
laurels from our Crucilixes or Black Besses, and tbat the winner
of the Oaks would still remain of English blood.
Breeding horses is generally considered an unprofitable branch
of a farmer's business, bnt this, I take it, is in great measure
owing to the want of judgment displayed; for, certainly, keep-
ing an animal till he is four or five years old, taking all the
risks to which young stock are exposed, and then realising a
price ranging between 201. and 30/., will most assuredly leave a
balance on the unfavourable side of the profit Mid loss account
1 am here not alluding to those large breeders who make it their
principal business, having eictensive pastures applicable for no
other purpose, hut to those agriculturalists who cannot keep their
colts for less than three or four shillings per week. To this de-
scription of farmers breeding cart horses is more profitable tfaaa
luicks, as the colts come into work at two and three years c^d,
and thus earn their keep at this early age, and if tbey are large
and promising often realise high prices by the time they are five
years old. Although more judgment has been displayed in this
stock than in that of a better breed, yet there is still much room
for judicious improvement. By using a horse as a stallion better
bred than those generally used, many advantages are secured,
without any proportionate drawbacks.
The advanta^fes arc, by slightly reducing the weight we gain
an improvement hi the action, so much so that a pace of four
miles an hour will be easier executed than three miles an honr
by the heavier horse. By getting more breed a greater d^^ree
of nervous energy is obtained, and the horse is less likely to tire,
and will consequently do more work.
For common agricultural purposes, there is no horse so handy
as one about 15 hands or a little more; and where the land is
not particularly heavy, and the principal object of the &rmer is
to get useful horses for his own use, he cannot do better than
breed these little active animals, which, by a judicious attention
to the qualities of the sire, and the dam, lie may obtain with
such a degree of speed in the walk as to do half as much work
again as the heavy, hairy-legged sort.
When, however, the farmer intends selling off his stock after
working them two years, so as to realise large prices for the
London market, it is then essential that a much greater me
should be attained, viz. from 16 to 17 hands, together with a
THE PBINCIPLEE AND PRACTICE OF BBEEDINO. 91
disposition to carry plenty of flesh, for the Londoners will not
buy unless a horse is fat.
These purposes, however, may still be eSected without losing
sight of the principle we have advocated, that of improving the
breed ; for, by selecting large, active, good-shaped cart mares,
and by putting them to a powerful half-bred Btallion (better bred
than he looks), we may secure size and shape, at the same time
have substance and flesh enough to please the metropolitan eye,
and to obtain as high prices as any that are sent to the London
markets. I have myself seen many of this breed whom no one
would condemn as too light for any purposes of draught. I do
not like the plan, however, of putting a cart mare to a thorough-
bred horse, as, generally speaking, these extremes are not equally
mixed in the oflspring, but are harshly conjoined ; for we often
see them with the Iq^ of the sire, and the carcass of the dam,
the two extremes meeting, but not mingUtig, in the young animal.
In breeding half-bred horses, so as to realise a profit, the
principle to be kept in view is to produce an animal that will at
four or five years old realise 50/. or 60/, j to do which no greater
Xnse is incurred than in breeding an animal of one half this
in the first place, then, we have to inquire what sort of animal
it is that realises thb high price. They are principally of two
kinds, hunters and carriage horses. By hunters, however, we
do not mean any animal that can gallop fast over a light country ;
but one that can carry a heavy weight in deep ground, well up
to bounds when the scent is good, and the pace proportionate.
For this purpose we require breed and substance in the highest
degree the two qualities can be combined together. The horse
should be as nearly as possible 16 hands, with a deep chest
and barrel ; not too short in the back, but with strong loins and
quarters; good fore-arm and legs; light head and neck, but the
latter not too short. These qualities are more easily obtained
in a smaller horse, but this will not do if a good price is expected ;
there must be a large frame to carry weight, and this can be ob-
tained if the breeder will get the right sort of mare, which can
be done by not sparing a few pounds.
The mare then should behalf-bred, and as near as possible 16
hands; not under 15^ nor over 16^, unless, in the latter case,
the other qualities are very excellent. She must not be blind or
half blind, unless from an accident, as the diseases of the eye are
very hereditary. If she is lame, we must assure ourselves that
it has not been produced by natural defect. We must take care
that she is not too long and oblique, or too short and upright, in
tbe pasterns ; or knuckling at the knees or fetlocks, or small
under the knee.
If she be washy or light carcassed, although as fleet as the
M
STRDcn/RK AND ECONOMY OF THE IIORSE.
ivin<], «vc lind bolter stioot Iht ihnii brcct] rrom Ixr. H^r paces
sliotitil be good, at 8IU' rntc, not bad; and ifiht' hat been a good
liiiiitcr, so much tbi- bt-tier.
And now- «)ial sort of A horw shnnlci iiicb n inarc be put to?
A ilioioiiKb-bix^i, by nil nimnK, but not any one that niay offer.
He sboiiUi Imvc pood foix^-le^ am] a large Iraine, and lii* pef-
fbrmarieeM »lioul() iiavu been Ktifficient to ftltow tbat bU lur|^
frame vias no bindrnnec to bim. It in \n no tneans rwcntiaJ
that he tboiild have won lh« Derby or St.Leger; belter ftr that
tie should have bei-n in the tail at these j^reot races, and have
run honest and well afterwards, (ban ibat lie should bavc come
in first, and newr raced again. It it euenital tbat hit consti*
tiitioii !)hotil<) be good, lux) there is no better jiroof of thb
llmn hi* caitability of matidiiig iraininfc, without being ever and
anon amin*, and his Jrttjumt appearance at the starting post and
Jair position at the wiiniing post. If he has won a few Queen's
plates, and particularly if he lias raced for tbeni too (not tneivly
walked over), he is the sort of horse for getting taluablc liuntenu
By selecting such a sire and dam as these just mentioned,
tliere is every probability of breeding animals of value; but 1 am
not averting tliat such a niare as 1 have stated, and no otlier,
shovild be used for breeding. The breeder may possess a mare
nearly, or quite thorouph-bred, and such a one may prove
valuable for breeding. In this case the danger is in getting ibe
slock too small or too light: and, gcncrallv speaking, it will not
be prudent to use a thorough- bred stallion for such a mare.
He may he. three parts bred, out with great substance; and if be
has been signalised in the annaU of hunting or sleeple^cluuii^
so much ibo b<>ller. If the mare be small and tbo rough-bred, tbe
hone -ibould be of still greater size and substance, and may be
only hnlf-bri-d, providing his action is good.
I liave known some very clever animals bred in ibis way;
whereas if a tliorough-bred horse had been used, the chancn
would have been that tbe offspring would be small, weedy, and
valueless.
In breeding carriage horses an equal degree of care must be
employed, as in breeding hunters. .-Vnd indeed more scrupulous
attenuon must be paid, so as to avoid ihoio defccis that offend
tile eye, which in butilers may be looked over or atoned for by
ttie possession of other first-rate qualities: for instance, if a
carriage horse has a short neck, however excellent his ottier
QualilKS may bo, be will not realise a high price. Some years
since, tail leggy Cleveland Ixiy horses, 17 bands high, were all
tbe ra^; but at the present day the public taste is improved,
and preference is now given to an animal of les* lieight, but of
f;rcater strength and symmetry, ranging between 15^ to 10}
lands. Such an animal must be lengthy without being light
THE PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE OF BREEDINO. 93
carcassed ; the shoulders oblique, and not loaded, but with high
withers; the neck must be long and arched, and the head
carried high. He should be well ribbed up, without being short,
and he must not be gooee-rumped, or ragged-hipped. His
action must be good, neither too high nor too low, but rather
tending towards the former than the latter extreme.
There must be little or no white about the legs, and the best
colour is bay ; next to this brown, unless a grey can be obtained,
which is as good, or better than either.
To obtain such an animal, we must take care that neither the
sire nor the dam possess any of those defects that we would
avoid in the oSspring, The mare should he a good carriage
mare, and if rather heavy, the horse may be thorough-bred, but
not the one we would select for getting hunters, but one more
lengthy. If the mare is well bred, the horse must not be
thorough-bred, but as near as may be consistent with plenty of
substance.
The two descriptions of horses which I have mentioned are
those to which the attention of the breeder should be principally
directed with a view to realising good prices, but there are other
sorts of mares that may be bred from with great advantage, such
OS clever hacks and cobs, and handsome ponies. Indeed when-
ever a mare has superior qualities without striking defects, she
may be advantageously used for breeding, providing the right
sort of horse is selected as sire. A little three-pa rt&-b red mare,
however, should not be put to a thorough-bred horse, as the
produce would probably be weedy, and of little value, whereas a
BtalUoD of more substance and less breed would probably get a
clever hack. Superior cobs are very saleable; and if quick,
strong, and handsome, will often realise large prices, being in
demand for elderly gentlemen. It is necessary that they should
be good walkers and trotters; unless, therefore, the mare is
good in these paces, we should not breed from her ; nor should
we if she shies, as this vice is generally incurable and heredilary.
If the mare be a very strong cob, we may put her to a ihorough*
bred horse, but as compact a one as can he found ; but if the marc
is light, we must select a cock-tail for a stallion, but one well
bred, and compact. Some of these cobs are remarkable trotters ;
and this quality may be readily produced in the offspring, by
taking care that both sire and dam excel in this pace. Pontes
are susceptible of considerable improvement ; in the forests where
they run wild for several years, a thorough-bred horse would
greatly improve the race by infusing more blood into the stock;
taking care not to allow very faulty mares to breed.
In endeavouring to breed superior stock, the chance of realising
large prices is such as to compensate for every attention jiaid to
the colt, which should be welt fed for several years, and indeed
STRVCTURE AHO ECOVom OP THE BORSE.
sliotild liave u little corn daily, which will iiivrease Uic utv, and
prcxliice a jj^miKT tlcveloppmcnt ol' muscle, and lend to pn-vi-ni
tlw dtipoMtion to tl>e eroirtli of the head, which a conlinemeni
to scanty junHiiirn^e i»auc4?e. This coarseness about the tu'ed b
particularly i)l>M-rvable in horses and ponit-s Uiai are bred in the
forest, where, from the poorness oftltc pasturage, ihey are obliged
to be continually rt'eding, and the head is con»e<]nently kept in
a (Iei>cndina position ; the immediate effect of which U a deUr-
minnlion ot a greater quantity of blood to the bead, producinga
grt^itcr amount of bone and Hesh at that part.
The great superiority of our race horses, and tbe perfrction
wliicl), in niajiy ivspecis, they have reached, is owing to several
circumstances, but to none more than to t)te outritiouv diM
whicli they get from their earliest years, lite effect of tbii
nuirilious feeding is to produce a considerable de^'elo{>enient of
muKclr, and it must be apparent to every observer how early
tilt* lltoroiigli-bred horse becomes furnished; as much so, indtvd,
at two years old, as a grass-feil hoi-se at four. It is, in my
opinion, owing to being thus com-fcd so early, that they are
etinbK'd lo surpass in s|)eed and bottom the descendants of their
|wrent bri'vd.
In breeding horsca for the turf, the principle kept in view is
to put the fastest mare to the faitte»t Uonc ; Uitic it is only the
winnerit of the untti stakes that arc afterwards used for gelliiu
racing stock, lliis principle is no doubt pretty correct ; only it
>nuM be obscrred, tlmt in selecting the particular horse for
a favourite mare, there are other circumstances to be bome
in mind, iliat sliould often induce t»s to give tlic preference to
OIK' horse, that might have proved himself flighlly inferior in
•peed to lirs rival. The circumstance* to be chiefly regarded
•re, first, the poiisession of qualities in the hurs<- of whicb iho
nwire may be deficient : secondly, the iid>nni«;re of a good con-
stitution; and tbii'diy, t)ic posscKtion of good fore legs. The 6r*t
is M> apjiareiu as tciircely to need any remark ; for us it must be
the case that a marc that has proved lier excellence for racing will
be sure to be employed for bieethng, whatever other de^ts she
may possess, die only wav to alleviate or remove iIh-m- dofectt
in the offspring is to sefect a horse that may excel in tbove
points in which the marc is deficienu Wc are not mm of suc-
ceeding by lluK plan, but sluill in uuny cases.
Qitdly. The attention to the constitution in the liorsc is a
matter of great importance, not only because it is the surest
means of imparting a good constitution to the offspring, but also
became the possession of tins smindne^^ of ronxtiiutioi) enablrs
the horw; tite belter to impart bis spti^I and bottom to ttu; foal.
How often do we find iliat tlie progeny of a firsi-ratc liorse
have pi«ved altogether inferior, though produced by superior
i
i
I
<
The principles and practice of breeding. 95
mares ! In these cases, it is generally found that the horses have
only appeared on the turf one, or at most two years, and their
running has generally been very uncertain ; whilst the sires of
numerous winners have, generally speaking, proved not only
their superior speed, but also the strength of their constitution,
by the truth and honesty of their running, and the number of
their races.
3rdly. The possession of good legs in the sire is a matter to
which less attention is generally fiaid, than to either of the other
points mentioned, and yet it is one of great importance, even in
a pecuniary point of view ; for although the speed of the animal
does not depend on the goodness of the fore legs, yet the power
of enduring training does, for in nine cases out of ten, when a
colt becomes lame in training, it is from disease of the fore legs.
We cannot wonder at this, when we consider that the fore legs
have to sustain the whole weight of the animal increased by the
momentum derived by speed, and connect this fact with the early
age at which these exertions are demanded, and the consequently
weak and unfit state of the parts. How essential it is, then,
that these parts should be as strong as nature can make them,
and yet how common it is for them to be altogether disregarded !
If greater attention were paid to the state of the fore l^s, it is
reasonable to expect that there would not be so many horses
fail, either in training or in their early races, as there are at
present, and consequently there would be a great saving of that
h*nitles3 expense which is now frequently incurred in training
horses that break down before they become winners. — Ed.]
PART III.
DISEASES OF THE MORSE.
CHAP. XX r.
OM INFLAMMATION.
[Inflammation is usually considered as a disorder of the blood-
vessels, but we can best understand its nature by considering the
phenomena with which it is connected. If, then, any extern^
part of the body present the symptoms of nodling, redaeu, and
paht, we may justly consider it iu a state of inflammation. The
swelling is to be attributed in the first place to the fulness of the
vessels of the parts, but after a while an effusion takes place front
the surfaces of these vessels, and thus keeps up or increases the
enlargemenL The redness is owing partly to the greater quan-
tity of blood in the arteries of an inflamed part; but priocipally
(o the fact that the small capillary vessels, which in a state of
health may not contain red blood, are now enlarged, so as to
admit the red particles. The pain of an inflamed part is owing
to the pressure of the enlarged vessels on the nerves of sensation,
but this symptom is not always present — only indeed where the
distention is sufficient to produce severe pressure, or where the
part is more largely furnished witli nervous flbres.
A part in a state of inflammation is therefore more abundantly
supplied with blood than in a state of health, and afler a time
the vessels themselves become enlarged, and in many cases nev
vessels are formed in a short space of time ; as was proved by the
celebrated Mr. Hunter, who froze the ear of a rabbit, and then
suddenly thawed it, so as to produce great inflammation, when
it was found that the ordinary vessels were enlarged, new ones
formed, and the substance of the ear thickened.
The capillary vessels in an inflamed part become distended
oflen beyond the power of contraction, and are partially ob-
structed, which may be noticed when the conjunctiva of the ^e
is inflamed ; vessels which were not perceptible become visibly
and are loaded with red blood, which they did not contun
before. And after the inflammatory action has subsided, many
of the small vessels continue for some time full of red blood,
from being in a state of debiiily, and unable to contract on their
contents, which they are assisted in doing by the use of external
stimulants.
laflunDmtion nuy be eiiti«r external or internal, local or
difTuicd. 'Hm.- flcii^ or llie nui^clt^, or sinews, may be aflt-'Ctcd
unnitet»de<l will) danger; or Ihe important internal viscera, such
as the lungs, the bowels, or the brain, may become the seat of
inflammation, and ma; threaten the destruction of (he«e parta,
and itie liCe of ilie animal itself.
The infiammation may be confined to a Email locality, sucli as
a tinew or a joint, or it may extend to varioiu parts, and iiule«d
involve llic whole nyslem. Strictly xpi-aking, nowerer, inflam-
mation is niwiiyi! looil. Oni- or more |>jirut bear the princijuil
brunt of tli<- di»t.-aac, iiltltpilgli frotn tbe local inll»mmatii>n
general irritation is produced, and the circulation is disturbed
and hucried. 'ITiese Uiler symptoms are denominated Fever,
and may exist eitlter widi local inflammation, or without it ; but
this we must consider preaently.
Inflammation may thus be confined to a particular part, and
produce no const itutioual ditlurbance^ or it taaj produce n
gcnoral fewer dirotigh tin' Jtystem.
These efleeli d«|)end partly on tho degree of inflammation
exi«tiog, and |wrtlv on the irritability of tlie part aflected. A
sinew or joint moderately intlamed, produces no constitutional
irriiiit ion, but when severely afTcttwllbe symptoms of general firvcr
are excited. This effect takes place more easdy in hui-ses of an
irritable temperament than in others, and is produced through
the medium of the nervous system. Tbc nerves of the inflamed
part are painfully alTcelwl ; this irritjilion is conveyed to the
Drain, whence it in diffiiscd througltont tlw tiyKtem, af&cting some
parts, however, more dian others, and producing different effects
in different animals. The heart is quickly afTecied by this
nervotia irritation, and it becomes excited to quicker and nrare
forcible action, and thus wc have the quick, hard, inflammatory
£ulse. The stomach is generally (not always) affcciod, and we
Bve eoncpqiiently nausea or want of appetite, one of ihe most
important symptom* we liave to asiist us in the treatment of
disrosc in the liorse. When the action of the heart is tliu* in-
juriously exciied, the circulation becomes disturbed, aiid we luive
» n^undancy of blood in some parts, and a diuiinution in others,
and thus wc frMiuetitly lind the i-xti'vniitirs cold, and tlie mouth
hot.
In this way local inflammation may, and ff«quenUy does,
produce geru>ral fever, and it is also the Aict tliat general fever
Eonietiretes excites local inflammation.
Infliimmation, although generally regarded as a disease, and
correctly too, is yet an eflorl of nature to n-lii-ve herself from
some irritating sub^luncc, and i* a much greater bencfli than
bane (o tlie animal »y»tem. For instance, a severe wound is
inflicted in t)»e fk-sli of an animal, to repair which a qtiantiiy of
M
96
IE HORSE.
matcrinl is requires), whicli cannot be produced vrUbout inflam-
instion, <u wi* shall prv^ciilly «.h.-.
Tltc Caiucji of itiflnmniution arc vurioufi, and yet they all act
bj: violently vxciling i»vrticn!itr pnrts. 'riiiis nil external blov
or a Kti(l(U?n »l(iM'nulioii ol' tfm{HTiitiirv idav produce inflammatiou
ill dinVrent juiiu, but, in both cue*, dm iinnodialc effevt u
grent excilcmeiit of tlie injured part: in on« instniici.-, vie may
nave an external abscest, and in the other inflammation of the
tbtoat or lungs.
Inflammations near the surbce of the body arc generally
produced either by violence from without, as in wounds, bruiio,
ami falls, or from over-exertion, as in strains.
Jnlenial inflammations may proceed fix^m various eaiisn.
Over-exertton of luiy or>{iin, lu of the lungit, in bn-nlliiii';, or th>
Iwnirlt from physic The exposure (o oold, ptiritcularly^
mtae time, or the alternation from cold to heat, trniy procA
inflammation of the throat and windpipe, or the lung». The
circulation of the exposed part is 6rst lessened, then by re-aetion
greatly tncraoa^ m a« to prodiiec tiifiammation ; great exertion
may produce inflittnmnlioii vilher of the lungs or the boweb
(both iHiriH b<-iii<r tlitit-by greatly excited), according lo the «ii*-
ceplibility of the [Kiri. Tniaaueceplibility is called prt^i^tontim.
All organs are rarely equally |)erfecl ; one part b generally weaker
than another, and therefore more predisposed to disease : and
thus the same cause may produce diflerent diseotes in diflerent
liorses, verifying the old proverb^ "'Htc w<-ake»l goes to the
wall." One fertile cause of inflammation is n redundancy of
blood in the system; but this e.ause may pro<ltice in one none
inflammation of the lutigx, in another inflammation of iho liver,
ill a thini that of tlie braiii, according to the susceptibility of (he
particular vise us in each horse. Intlammaiion of the lungs is,
however, moie likely to occur from lhi& cause, inasmuch iw all
the blood in the bo<]y pluses tluough these organe, and only >
porlioti of it through olliir parti.
'Hiu tat»m of the iftar, too, has much in do in llie proditctioa
ofdiflerent inflammatory complaints: thus, dist-tktes o1 t lie liver,
and the bowels, are more frequent in hot weaibi-r ; and iliow of
the air passages, when tlic atinospltcrc is damp, cold, or cbanoe^
able. This IS owing to tlie prc^'alence, at tliese seasons of Uic
{'ear, of tlte parliculur causes of thc»v different diseases. In llic
luman subjoet, inflammation is considered of two kinds, ibe
phlegmonous, and the erysipelatous. In the hoi^e, our atteiilioB
la pnadpally confined to tlie former; we can scarcely sny that
he is liable to erj'sipelas, at any rate only to that eruptive
atTection of the skin, denominate<I Erythema. Inflammatiou
hiu various terminations, such as HetfJutitm, Ad/iftimi, SMppun-
lion, and Ulcrrnlitm, nil of which are often the miiunil prooesm
of nature to reiwr tlte efTecU of an injury. The three U*l
IHFLAMMATIOK.
eta eoRtetimes eoceeecl cacli otlier in the <ame ctae, and often
ill the order in which they arc licre nicnlioiicd.
lirsiflutioK is when, cither with (reatmeiil or without it, inllain-
malion subsitlcs or tortninaics iu licalth, without the sopervention
of tl>e othrr soqudKi Biid it is that termination which we are
gcncraUjr d*-sirouB of cTi-cting \ty our Ircatrnciit.
ytdhtnon %% tli£ d«.-[KMtitioii ol' tltc fibiinc or u(lhi'«iTc principle
of thf hl(Hit) on tilt' flurtWe ol'u (lit^astHl part) an<l may b<> (■xcni-
!>liried by i)i<- healing of a wound by the firni iiittiition, untl tl)u
bnnatioi) of new subfitaiioe, or the union of old sub»taiici'4, in Uie
chcbt or abdonieiit after uilliuuinaUon in those parts.
CvKtaucrUitd eaeitia, vuch ae the cltest and abdomen, have a
disposition to adhtsioa in preference to ttip/mratioH ; but when
both iIh^c »c<{uela- occur in dtc Muttc |>arl, udlRvion UKually
prece(h-s suppuration.
An cfliuioii of AerouA fluid is also a frequent termination of
ittflammation of the membrane of the cbeal or abdomen.
Stmirathn, or die secretion of pus or matter, is a termination
of ionammation to which internal canals, such as die boweli*
urethra, or windpipe, are particularly disposed. In these parts,
wlii-n both suppuration and adbi.>*ion takes place, the former
always precede* the latter, conir>iry to the course which takes
place in circumscribed caritics, and likewise iu extcninl wounds,
11)0 best illntlration of suppuration is ilic fonnnlion of an
fthsocM. An injury is received, inflamnmtton follows, and blood
•nd serum is elTused^ and is suceeded by the deponition of
matter under the skin, or an>onf(at die muscles ; tlie absoeaa
bunts, or b opened, the matter ts evacuated, and the vacant
epeux is healed by the adhesive process.
The adi]>of nienibranc is panicubu:Iy dispo««d to take on the
suppurative process, whiUt tlie ctUuiar ntembrane baa a greater
di«{)osition to adtivnion.
Uiermlion is a sequel of inflammation tliat may occur with
suppuration, or independenUy of it. It consists in iJie absorption
or removal of substance. Ulceration always occurs in abscotses
before they burst ; tlte substance between the matter and the
surface is gradually removed by iilciiiition, at the place wh<-rc
Cm abtceM points- 11nu it is a u*i.-rul process of nature, tlntiigli
oTteti A iroublesonw diMrose. An ulcer is a ninning sore, which
mav be healthy, and have a disposition to heal; or unhealthy,
and be disposed to cidaige and extend.
The cavities of joints, when exccedinf;ly inflamn), liaveu tend-
ency to bodi ulceration and adhesion, cither together or se]>ni*
ratcly. an illustration of which i« often ulI'ordiKl by the navicular
joiiii diH'ase.
IW'^tides the terminations we have mentioned, inflammation
nmy end in gangrene, or the deatli of the part.
u 2
100
DISEASES or raz iionsE.
Parta in which the circulation if inactive, tacli as bone
Bn<l cartilage, aro mon.- <ti«po«Mtl to tliU proc^w than other parts.
A Bcrprc injury i» n-cciwtl oil » bone, and in the course of tiine
A portion ol' \iiv bone i(1utif;)u off, or exrolialea, &■ it is callcdi
that in, di'privi-d of iioiirt)ihineiii, dies and separates. Gangrentv
lut a leriiiination of intt-rnal intlaniniatory diseases, is less frequent
in tlie horac than in man. Inltammations in the farmer are
usually more violent, run their course quicker, and are oflcn
Huccccded by deaths before gangrene has tiine to aupcrvene.
TTie PhIm affbnls \\% the b«>»l criterion of the pre»ence and
di-iirc<> of inlt-nial iiifliinntiation, and its eharacier i« ibc «tirt«t
Si}d4> we can fuUow «.« tu irealmeni. It denotes ihc action of
e heart, and may l>e felt in any superficial artery as n-ell as at
the region of ihe heart. The most convetiient vessel for examin-
aiion, however, is the sub-maxillary artery, which panee over
the nrxler jaw-bone.
The oniiniiiT |nil»Pition in the hor^e is abont 39 to 36 in n
minute. ]n intlainmatory <)isi,.a-->f«, it i.i often grently incredcwd,
Momeiimoexci'ttliiig 100. He>idt-i the increase in its frcqniriicyi
ihorc is an alteration in its character, which is of still greater im-
portance. Some horses have naturally a much stronger pulse
than others, which it would bo useful toascertain, if possible; but
lhi» i« ran-ly the rase.
The pi'incipnl varieties in the kind of pulse are a soft, hard,
aironff, weak, liill, opprc^ncd, and intermittent puW. A hone
may have naturally citlier a »lrong or weak pulse, according, in
a great measure, to the vigour of hts constitution. Under
diKMC we may have the above varieties in the pulse dilTerently
combined. A full puUc denotes an abundance of blood in ilic
system, a strong pulse a vigorous action of the hcarf, and if wiili
these stales we nave aUoa quickened action, copious blood-letting
in demanded. A hard pulse is considered diaracierisiic of in-
flainnintion : we then bleed, in onler to produce a soft puUr.
When the veueU are exceedingly full there is sometimes an op-
pressed pulse, which demands copious bleeding. A weak state
of the pulse Ibrbids bleeding, and often requires stimulanu; this
slate ol the pulse is often present in influenza, being, at the same
time, greatly quickened. It is also the case towni-ds the faul
termination of iiiflumninlory disrase*. An intermittent pulse
it, in a few comj*, natural to some horses; it sNo attends some
disenset of llw heart, and is by no means a desirable symptom,
for it is oflen attended by a fatal result. We can oucn pro-
duce an intermittent pulKc, by the administratioit of digitalis
in inHammation of the lungs. In this case it ii rather a favour-
able symptom, ni* it exhibits a diminution in the action of Ihe Imrt.
^rs (he intermission is ivgular, being at every fourth.
I
IMPLAHMATION.
101
sixth, or t«ntli pulsalton, at othera rory irri?gitlar, tho iniertninion
varying cunliiiualiy. Ad inicrmiUcnt pulse ntrely calls for
Uwxl-lvttiiig.
'l')*e eBecI of bleeding on tl>c pulse iis «t first, to ijuickci] its
action as well as to diministi ils forces »n<l, if carried to some
extent, lo render it im]>crc<,'ptible, und to <'uuKr syncope or
fainting, wliicli is teniponiry cnsatioii of tlie flow of blood to tlie
head.
The TVta/mmt of JnJIammalioH will mainly depend on the
object wc have in view, whether to seek for reioluiion, or any of
the other icrminations we have mentioned. In inflammatory
anections of vital part£, our treatment should be such as to bring
about the restoration of the organs to their normal slate : in fact,
resolution. For this purpose Inrj-v blood-lettings are generallj
liad recourse to, and with great advnnU^e. Ity general bli-eding
we subtract blood from the system, und consequently there is lesa
blood wnt to the tnflaiiH-d part, the capillary viiM-la of which
may thus have iiiT»e to relieve themselves.
The beneht of general bleeding \% much agisted by abstract-
ing blood rapidly, mid from a large orifice; a sudden check »
thus put upon tiK- circulation, whiclii thongh of short duration, is
vei m great service in ucule inflammalion. In esses of active
inflammation, the best guide oh to the qtiantity of blood to be
abstracted is obtaiiKtl by observing its effect on the pulse, and on
tlw mouth. We ihould bleed until ihe liiiier feels considerably
cooler, mid the former becomes altered in its character, becoming
softer and weaker, though generally quicker.
The state of the blood \a a very uncertain criterion, and should
have but little influence over our treatment. This, however,
may be observed, tttat when it presents a buffy coat, there is
ustially a capability for bearing bleeding, and the contrary when
tl»c blood is very black, supposing it is drawn from a large ori-
fice. Local bleeding for internal inflammations can seldom be
practised in the horse.
Although bleeding is the sheet-anchor in acute inflammation,
oilier remedies are of importance.
Purffiaff, though useful in some inflammations, is lo be con-
demned when the chest is nlTected ; a*, by sympathy betwi-cn ihc
lungs and the bowels, the irritation of the latter by purgation
has a very injuriotis cHect on the Kings, boidei lowering tlw
system to a grem extent. It ia, however, desirable to obtain a
iDodcrately relaxi-d »tate of the bowel*.
IXtirfsiM is of much greater benefit : by determining a greater
qnantity of blood to the kidneyn, a portion is diveried from an
inflamed pan, and tlie system is also uniuaded by iho increfwed
secretion of urinv. Medicines are often adminiKteied having n
teodeucy to jiroduce nausea on the sloinacli, the eili?et of which
lOS
tttSEASCS or THE BOBSE.
H to lenen tlie action of tite heart, and otben are given to have
a direct cITect in lowerinf:; the heart's action.
It is desirable to kcru up the circulation in the pxtremitiH
and the stir&ce of t)iv bodjr by clothin); and bitiidiiping, as wc
thereby draw to th« surface a portion of the Mood which li«> u
tendency to conccnlrulo within, 'llii* principle ii ntlil funlier
carried out hy counter-irritation — by cn-ating artificially an in-
(lanimntion, and) consequently, a deterniiiiation of blood to an
external porL
Tliese are ihc leading principleo by which we are to treat in-
lenial inf lain mat ions, regulated, of course, by tlie peculiar fea-
tures of each individtul case.
In external inflammalkmt wc have a fjrealer number of mennt
for our employment: for imlanns local btiWin;;, wartii and
fo men tat ion, bc«id<.-K exlenuil stiuiulnnlt. The K-nefit to be
tained from the firxt nimtioiutl \% very considcriihle ; we tii
abstract hlooil either ftum tlie iuDamcd paii \\i*A\', or its i __
diiite vicinity, ami tliiiR deprive it of the very food whereby
inllnaimalion la kept up. >vhere, however, ilte case is se\'ere^ as
in fever in the feet, or the pari of much importance, as in
ophthalmia, local venesection will have much greater efleet if
jireceded or assisted hy general bleeding.
IVarm fomrn/iitions are of much importance in the early Btagm
of local inflammation ; they act by relieving; the inBanvetl vcHcl*
by mians of perspiration, or tlic e«cape of fluid externally through
thej)ore« of tlic skin.
The Imman siirccon has a great advantage over ue, in beinj!
enabled to determine blouil to the skin by means of the wanii
bath, which is of great utility in many internal inflammatory
diseaso. BhI, from the targe :(ixe of our jialientH, and their
bailor covered with hair, it in next to impo^-sible to make u»e of
it: iIh; warm vapour bath haji, however, bet'-n lued witli beiiefiE.
nlthough attended with uitich trouble and iitconvenieitce. In
itiflamntalory alfections of Uie bowels, we nuiy employ a local
warm hath with great advantage.
Ill employing warm water as a topical remedy, it ia necessary
to continue ils use for a long time, otherwise the ratction by
which it is succeeded will produce more inconveniettcc titan
otherwise. Poultices arc extremely useful in aflbrding a meaiu
of employing fomentations for a long timi'^: it ik tliervRire
ctueiitial to saturate them frequently with warm water. Wlien
iitflammation has a tendency to &up])urntion, die praoe«s is greatly
assisted by warm ajjjilicutiont^
(■"/(/ nppHealion* n'li('ve local innnmmnlioii, by cncotiraging
cvA]>oratiun. Calorie, iIh' principle of hwit, i» thereby abstracled
from the part aU'ecti'd.
Vf we wisli to prevent tlie fonuntion of matter in on external
rEVEB. 103
part, we apply cold lotions ; but, if our object be to encourage
suppuration, we have recourse to warm poultices and foment-
ations.
In severe strains, warm fomentations are often employed first
with advantage, and are succeeded by cold applications; we
thereby relieve the inflamed part, first by means of perspiration,
and afterwards by evaporation.
Cbunter-trrttenff, such as blisters and setons, are employed
after the infiammation has abated ; their beneficial effect is pro-
duced by withdrawing the blood from the inflamed part to
another and a healthy locality. If employed, however, in too
early a stage, they often increase the inflammation they are in-
tended to abate. — Ed.]
CHAP. XXII.
ON FSVEB.
[HAVitia largely noticed the subject of Inflammation, we sliall
have but little to say on that of Fever. It is, however, usually
considered of two kinds — Symptomatic, or Inflammatory Fever ;
and Sinqiie continued Fever, or Synochue.
The former we have already alluded to, under the head of
.Inflammation. In an inflammatory disease, when the pulse is
full and ft^uent, the mouth hot, and the membrane of the nos-
tril injected, we say, there Is much fever ; and the presence of
these symptoms usually guides us in the abstraction of blood.
In such cases, generally, though by no means invariably, the
Mood presenu a bu% coat, which is usually considered, and
often with justice, an evidence of the propriety of blood-letting.
Where there is much general fever, accompanied by local
inflammation, such as from an open joint, or externa) injury,
there is a greater proportion of fibrine In the blood than in a
state of health ; and so, likewise, in acute rheumatic affections.
■ Simple continued fever is a welt recognised disease in man ;
bat, in the horse, its existence has been often denied. It is,
however, the fact, that we have occasional cases of fever in the
horse, without any symptoms of local inflammation, and, in such
cases, we rarely find a bufly coat presented by the blood, and
tbere is, genendly, an inability for bearing large venesections.
Sucb cases are often ushered in by shivering fits, and which
sometimes recur during the progress of the complaint. In some
epidemic diseases, particularly in the influenza, so prevalent in
1836 and 1840, ^e symptoms of fever were strongly marked,
and often without any local inflammation. In other cases, local
H 4
in
bllUIBS Of THE HORSE.
inflamtnatian would aflrrwards sopcrveoe ; in which cases, ihr
partial flaitic vtu tight<.-<l tip, as it were, by grneral &vcr. The
imporiaiicv of tlii« ilisra^o, Wwcvcr, will (JcmniKl • •epante ooo-
sUk-roiiuii ; but, iiiider the head of fever, we may consider on
afTi'viioii which ia by no pieaiia unfrt^tiieni, particularly during
the aiiliimnal season, when the ay stem ia debilitated by
inoulling.
A horse will a))(>par dull on his joarney, particularly towards
the latter part, ami, on reaching his stable, is much fatigued.
Ho refuses hix food — hangs his head in tlto manger — brraki
out in a co!(l xwent — his month is tiol, iind pul^ nuiclc, bat
wesk : but his brralliini;, after a while, i« in its ■latiitiil Mote.
In such cii>t-«, bl(i,-<H"K '" p'lHTally forbidden; and we find
llw best trcuttiK-iil eoiiiiits in tlte adminiBtration of febrifuge,
sudorific, and tonic medicine, such as tlie following, which will
oflcn prove tueceMfiil in immediately diecking ilie disease: —
Spirit of Nitrous Eihef 1^ qz,
Cnniphor »*•(.•*•••.••••••*••••.« 1 dr.
Nitre 4 dr.
Gvntian 2 dr.
In a pint of warm water. — EdJ
CHAP. XXIII.
DISEASES OF TIIE »RAI» AND KERVBS.
Jnflammatioti of Ihr Brain (Phrenitit or Mad Staggtrt), Epilf/Wf,
Mfifrimi, Habits, Paliy, Kwnrrf, Trtanus or LocAed Jatc, Strinff-
hatt.
l*MRP.NiTt8, or inflaininalioti of the brain, is generally occasioned
by overfeeding and too little exercise.
The tirst symptoms^ and ilieae often escape notice, arc —
hearincsi, redness of the inembraneM under i)te eyelids, waul
of appetite, and disinclination to motion ; but thesymptom must
commonly first observed is delirium, or madness. Tlie twrse
becomes tiolent, plungi"^ about the sull, endeavours lo bite those
who approach him, or the horsra that happen to be near him. A
horse nas been known to leap out of a small window when af-
fected with tliis disorder ; and he is sometimes so violent as to
drive every one out of the stable. Sometimes he falls down
exhausted, and afler lying for a time, gets up suddenly and
heeomes as violent as ever.
TIk' treatmfnt is immediate and copious ble<'<liiif; ; that is bli-«l-
'aiil tlic animal is perfectly free from dcliriuuii and this scltiom
m
DISEASES OF THE BRAIN AS'D NERVES. 103
ppena uolU from two to thre« gallons of blood are taken off.
I tiave kiiowii lour gsllons taken ofF al one time, and tlie hoi'ae
reoorered in consequence. If the fit sbould return, he must be
bled again, until tnc disorder ceagee. As soon as tlie hor««
bwomcs quiet, a dose of phj-sic and clysters &liould be girc-n.
After tha norec ts recovered, he should be kept to a vpare diet
fin* some tinw; gnus» it the best. Tliv juf^ufnr veint ure ihv
vewala firoot which blood »lioulJ l>c drawn in ihiN <tiM>rd<T, and
if both are opened it will be better. After the veins lukw In-rn
opened it 19 unual (o tie a eord round tlie neck, by wliich ilie
bleeding will be kept up witlioui tlie iieee<dii_v of ataiidin;; near
the horse. Tltere is no occasion for measuring the blood.
Bleeding from both of the temporal arteries at once has been
practised in preference to (be jugular or neck veins, and I have
ommendfO the practice.
Stomach stajigcrs, though not a primarr affection of the brain,
like phreiiiti«, or mad staggers, and apoplexy, not only requires
kicking, but copious bleeding, and that too as early as posaible.
Stilt, irawevcr, m stomach tiaj^rs, tlie stomach m»tt be a
principal object of attention ; for, unless the hanlenc<l utidi-
geitml foo<l l>e removed from it, it will low Ju viialiiy, .iiid the
imal will die.
I have «it'n cases where the at»traetion of arterial blood has
afrortlc<l relief, (ifter bleeding from the jugular vein had fnile<l;
and it ti [irobuhle, ttuil when there is comiderabic delirium,
artrriatomy, as blectling from arteries i» termed, would be foimd
the tnoat effectual practice. 11)e tein[)onil arteries may be felt
about two inches from the outer corner of the eye: by placing,
or rather preying, the fingers upon this part, tlicy mav be dis-
tinguished by their pul^tion or tlirobbing. Into this part a
lancet is to he plunged freely and without fesr.
Frcniy generally happens to young vigorous horses, whilst
old hones arc generally the subjects of apoplexy and stomach
Stagxen. The early age, Iwwever, al which horses are often
woriccd, and the immoderate degree in which ihey are worketl,
often mnkea tliem old in oou»iitntion ulien young in yenn, to
tb»t even young hontes may IjecouM: itie subjects of »[>oplexy.
Mtffrinu, l^ertiffo, EpiUpttf, Canvuhimis, Ifylroffj>/ialta, Dmpst/
of the lirmn.
Tlww rartous name* nriw from the vnrious nppenranees pro-
duceil either by fulni-ss of tJie blond -vessel"' of the bniin, |i<tI](i[>!i
witli weakueNn of that important orgiiii, or by water in it:i ventri-
cles or cavities. Water in the ventricle of the brain may produce
a rariety of effecli, from iliat of giddineHu or vertigo, to that of
1M
niSEASO OP TffR HORBE.
rearing up suddenly ntid lltllinff Iwckwards, itanging back sad-
dcnljr iipuii Utu linltcr, And lalliiig bock with violence agaimt
Uie wall, or dro|>|iing siiddetily while at work, aa it' shot with a
f>i»Iol, lying mocionleis aome time, (hen getling uit again and
up|)earing quite well. Sometimes when ridden Imra, iho animal
tries to stop suddenly, rambles or etaggers, appcsn confused and
lost, and ollen falls down. Blindneas in one vyc ta a common
Hymplom of (his diiorder, and always in tlte ere opposite to the
aHMted ventricle." Horses with tliis complaint, when ibrit
Htonuictii are load<'d, ami itivir IwweU full of excn-ment, bv
rating imiiKxIemti-ty of liay. have the «ympioms much increased,
and nut utifri-tjiumily are aihu-ked witli i»ad aUiggere from this
I cause, or, what it> not lens frequent, (be stomach staggers; for
when tlic momach luu been much dialenttcd with hay, and dw
S>niciice is continued, the organ itself at length becomes ^un-
y«etl, which is what may properly bo named Btomnc)) staggcn.
I>ropsy of tlte brain sonictinies assumes a violent form, prudactog
. epilejitic fits. The honic falls down, and fuinelimm reoiatM
motionlet*, at others he struggles violonily, and after n time gels
up ngain and becomes violently dclirioti*. Copious bleeding
otten uflbrds relief for a time, but ttie disorder sooner or later
lerminaK-H fatally.
When a horse i* attacked with symptom* which come under
the name of me^riniH, giddiness, or vertigo, it indicates either
tlic existence of water in the venlricle of the brain, or an acco-
Uegiinw ji n Hidden deteriiiiimtioti of blood to ilic hcsd, proiliidiw giit
dineas. and often inwuiitiilily. Uld horae* arc more nibjcct (o tliii ^loae
Lthiiii yuimg oiji.>»; niiil after «(:i'ernl «l tack* then: ia iwuiul; a pnnJitipoKitioa
foriiiril to recc^ivc oihrr nllucks.
The horse ii ncnrly ulway* sflteMd la hi* work, and mom frwiuenlly in
liurnvM tlmn uthccwiHO. tl« first sbakcs his hv*d, and tuddenly mops; snd
I toiiictiinct, if utlowcxl to remain ijuiei, the iinnfiloin* go vtl', biH if not, ht
i-tlat:;ierii. and fulls duwn, nnd ciniiiuurs struggling fur tome tiroo in n stale of
k BncoimduuniHtM i (liccjci roll, thr iii^htrili lire dilsted, nnd the whole frame
I ■|ipcari> convulicd. The fil tiiny liut From five to fiflecn minulei,
lie etnati are b rvduiidaney of bbod in the aipileni. IndaCml hy good
feeding and Uttlg cxerctM i tbua it usuaUf occurs in Est luliieicu, thoiiKli
sonietitnss in the convene There is therefore in the itnimiil aprcdispuiition
fbr the Uood to Ay to the baut. nnd ncrhnp* a wcaknn* ot tbv ceplisUi:
vesscd*. It occurs moat imiucntlj in ine ipring or mrly manner months,
iben ihtrs Is ■ plethoric Btsteofthesjsieni. It mny be imncdiDtcly excited
y gmt axettion, the beat of the sun, or the prcMure of a ti^t collar pi«>
' TenliiijC the lice return of blood from the hend. It has been connci'tcil
with, d' [lut .'tiiueil by, worms.
The In-almnt limit ci>n«i4t in UleeiHng frwly, and if the horse ia in good
condiiion a dose of phyiic will he useful.
Sometin»es a tnuill hlood-vcucl in tlic head ia ruptured in ibis iliseascb
lnhlch. If at (bo hate of the liroiii, (■encrally jiroducei dcutll.
In cases of very n-t^uciii ri'tiirroncc, where the »ligh(c*t enavc will produce
a fit. there is probably snnic ofRnnic dueatc of the brnin, probably, as obMrved
hf we author, water in the ventricle*.— Ed.
0ISEASC8 OF THE HHAIK AHD HtRVKS.
107
ulation of blood in ibc vetseU of the brain, A slight dei^ree
of bydrom-pliAliu, or ratlier a sinall quantity of water in the
Tentriclf, may exiiit vrilhoul producing niiy visiblf cHcci upon the
liorsf ; but if he is riddt-u bard, if his stoinacb nnd bowels ai-o
loaded, or if by high fco<bng find want of rt-Kular cxt-rciso bo
becomes plethoric or too full of blood, the disordrr will tlnii be
aggravated, and i))c sy tnpionis 1 have dncribM) will be produced.
From this view of lh« subjoct, it will nppear that liydrocephaJiu
may be relieved bv avoiding thoso circunutanccs by wliidi it
nwy be aggravated and heightened inio a visible disorder: and
if tlutt disordirr does lake titace in any degree whatever, bleed
according to tltc urgency ol the case, and unload the stomach
and bowelii by physic and clysters. Green food is the bust diet
for such horM«, and if tliat cannot be had, bran tnsalics. Vury
little hay sboiild bu allowed. Hanging down tltc bead at grats
may fiivonr ttw Accumulation of blood it> the ve«£cU of the brain ;
wben tliis seems to be the case, the horw? xhould he kepi looif in
a cool box. I have known di^itoiiHion of th<: stoniacli njid lioweU
alone produce a serioux utiack of vertigo or megrims ; iti tiuch a
degree, indeed, that a Itorae rambled and fell down while tlie
owner was riding liim. This tiorse, from being fed nioderately
and having his bowels <>mptieil with a doae of phviiic, never had
a return of the disorder, and lived many yeiLTt aiierwurdj.
k
Rabiei, or HydropTiobia,
ff«tl
[I^ibicH, or Hydrophobia, is a disease of the nervous «y>tem,
mcwhnt resembling phrcnitis in iu symptom*, hut differing
m it in HvK great disposition lo miscliief evinced in rabies:
* there h nteiliod in ihv madnoss." It it invariably produced
in ttie liorse by ihe bite of a mbid animal, geneTslly a dog, and
it tnay manifest itself at vnrioits periods, from one month to
several after the bite. Mr. Youait observes in bis lectures. Vet.
vol. X., '* Tlw earliest, and perliapa the moat decisive, symptom of
the near approach of rabies in the horse, is a spasmodic move-
ment of tlie upper lips, pariicularly of the angles of the lip."
Close following on tbis, or conlcmporancoua with it, is the
ttepressed and anxious countenance, and enquiring gaze, sud-
denly however lighted up and becoming fierce and menacing,
m some unknown cause, or at the approach of a stntngci'.
tiinti to time dilTcrent parts of ilic frame, the eyi^s, the
particular limbs, will be convulsed; the eye will occn-
wander after some imaginary object, and iho hor*e will
un<l nguin al lh«i which has no n-a! existence. Then
the irrepu-xsiblc desiie to bite the attendants and thu
animals within its ri'ach ; to this will succeed the tlvmolition of
I
108
DISKASES or TITE ROHSE.
llie rack, tlte manger, the vrliole furniture of tlio siaUe, accom-
pani^ by ihe peculiar dread of water. Towards the close of
the alfair litere is generally paralysis, principally of, or generally
confined to, tlie loins and iIm- hinder exIrviDitiof, or involving
tlioao organs which derive tiiirtr m-n'out inflitnicc from ihU
portion of tin- Kpinul cont ; Itrncc llic dii«ircMing tenesmus which
is occasionally ici^n." 'lliia disease invariably proves fatal tn the
course of thre« to six days.
Treatment, when once tl>e complaint has manifested itself, if
perfectly useless : tlie aninial should tlierefore be shot.
Preventive treatmenl. however, may be employed wilh success,
if we can find out the bitieii part. It eliould as soon as possible
be excised completely witli the knife, or the luitar caustic freely
applied to the wound and repealed. I have operated with the
caustic on various horses bitten by rabid dogs, and ttotic of tiiem
hare become nia<l. The last case was a |xiny bitten rather
ex ten si VI -ly. A child bitten by ll»es«mcd«g, but in whom proper
ln-»tT)ient was neglected by tlie surgeon, died in about two
iMonilt^ alter tlte bite.
" The posi-morltm ap|>earance!»," says Mr. Youatt, " of rabiet
in tl>e horse are, to a considerable degree, uncertain. Nothing
unusual may be found in the membranes or substance of the
brain ; the stomach may be slightly or doubtfully inflamed, the
tun^ and the heart iitay be sound, but at least in en?ry case that
1 have seen, the pharynx, the fauces, and the epiglottis have been
considerably affected." — Ei>,3
[This difeaite is, as iu name implies, a loss of power of the
nervous syiien). It is never found complete in the noi-se, tliough
partial paralysis frequendy occui's. There are two descriptions
of this affection, hemiplegia and paraplegia. The former is a
tiarnlysisof one side of the body, the latter of the bind extremities,
rile former is extremely rare in the horse, and there are not
above one oi' two cases on record. One ease is rehitcd by
Mr. Hull in vol. v. of the Veterinarian. Thcsymplom* comeon
without any visible cause; and, though very severe, diHipi>e«red
in a few day*. 'Ilic tr<Miiiit-nt employed wit*, friciinu on the
aifected side, laxative and fi-hrifuge medicine, followed by Ionics.
Paraplegia, or loss of power of the hind extremities, is much
more frequent, and generally arises from some sudden injury of
ihe spinal cord, produced by keeping luck a loaded waggon,
or slipping up, or a severe strain in leaping. It may also be
produced by some tumour pressing on the nerves which suuply
tlie hind extremities, and is then gradual in its approach. When
ibia ii^uiy is produced by an accident, the vertcbriE of the luins
U)SeASE8 op THK ORAIM AKD KCltVCS.
are Mmetimcs completHy frftclured, and a ponion of bone
pmung on tlu; »|)iikal corti not only (U>»lroj-R (he poivcr of
motion, btit product-i lite most aculi.' sufiii-ing, under whicli ihc
animal dies in a lew diiys. lu otltcr cues of tomcwhat let*
severity, il)ere ia a parttal dUlotation of the vertebriv, so that ilic
cord ispressedon, or quite aflfrec[iiently some veMeisarftiiplviri'd,
and the blood presses on tlie cord. It' ilio iijiper roots of the
nerves arc materisllv injured, tlierc is loss of feeling, as well as
of moltofi ; but thi> ti rare. Allien there is much pressure on (he
*pina1 cord, the Itome L* rarely of much service afterwards,
alllioufi;)) Iw may get conitidi-nilily hcUcr; thi-r« i« Krnenilly ft
weakne^H leftt nhich iimiiiiu-i tales him lor bearing biirdi-nx or for
heavy draught : lie may afnTwar<b, huwtver, work li);htly. Tluim
accidents are comparatively frequent in the army, where they
arise from bringing young horses suddenly on their haundies:
horses in this state are said to be chinked in the back.
TIm> treatmonl in wverc cases should consist of copious vene-
section, laxative and febrifuge medicine, and the npplieiilinn of
warm sheep akin* at first to the loins, and succeeded by H'Eons,
blisters, or a blistering ebargt'.
There is a debase in livdia very iilmilar to tliia, called Kmnrte.
It is described by Mr. Huglies in the Veterimirian, who says, " 1
am of opinion, that i)>e kumree b a weakness in the hind ex-
tremities, produced by pressure on the nerves going to these
pans; or it is asymptom.or rather a termination, of inllammation
of the bruin, or it* membranes, wliicli, in ibo human subject,
would produce hydrocephalus ; but probably from ibe utruclureof
tlie lior^, (be anruniulntion of tlie elluM-d fluids i.i prevented, and
they pass down within the tliecoe of (he medulla spinalis. This
inflammation of t)ie brain is of a mild or subdued form ; were it
greater, it would induce phrenitis. TIic causes of it arc (K-al,
nidilen dianges from heat to cold, and from cold to hint, and
plethora. Severe blows on the head nmyid^o occasion it."
Mr. Twining, in a paper prenenU'd lo the Culcutta Mi-dicid
Society, and copied inio the Veterimirian, attributes the kuniree
to animalcuhe, either about the vertebra; or the cellular leMure
connected with tliem : and Captain Wyatt says, that he hasoOen
been pre«ent during the ilisscction of liorsc» that bad dtii] of
fciimree, and ituit hi- htia mh-u the«c worms. The stnlemiiii of
Mr. Gill, however, doi-* not (wnfirin ibesi* statement*. " I have,"
he observes, " almost invariably Ibund in the stomach and in-
testines, worms similar to those in the eye, and also in tumours in
]ic stomach, but never in any other part of the body, or tlic cel-
nicinbnuio of any part, or in the ipinal canal. In moil of
pMt-aiarttm examinaiionsi wlncli I have xeen made, there has
pn either efltLtion of blood between the membranes covering
lumbar region of the spinal cord, or anchylosis of the lumbar
niSBAflES or THB HORSB.
1
vtnol)rn.<, or rxoobMis in llw griM. forntnen. In other casoi I
coul<l MX- notliiii^ to cAUMu itf rxcc[>l tliat lltu ipituU ourrow
appuared soincwliot softer llian usiwl,
*' In i>cfu-ly ull tlie infltanoea tlut have come under my obscrv*-
tion, I could (race ilie origin of die diarase to wrvncl^'H, falb, or
blows; iind I Itave little doubt iliat the hardncsa of Uie ground,
and ihc manner in w1im.'1i the horses are picketled, togei)»er witii
tlic I'titU ihey ({rt, owin); to ibc carelrasiicss of ihe native groooa
in lorcii)); tlictn in itnd out of tltc lerry-boats, in tliuir way (rtm
ona italioii to niwtJieri are fiTtilc sources of tlie disease. Tbe
frequent occurn>noc of fntcluml ilia, in tliat counliy, can only
be iii(ribute<l to ihi^ tame cait»e*.
" I oinnot, bowwcr, contiidi-r (lie dil!i(-uUy "f ffoioK op and
down hillH any proof of fluid in tlie 9>|)iiuii Mit^tli ; but I attri*
bute it to the viani of eiier^' in the bind quartern — the pro[>clliii*
influence being mainly in tlie hind quarters when going up bnit
and there bvinf; a necessity for extending them more under tlu
body ill f^oing down hill.
" With Inspect to tile remedial niennit had n.-cour»e to, I believe
them to be nothing worUi, not even m pitlliatircs. I have teen
coimter-irriiflnis in ihe form of deep firing, blisters, teloRSi
klim-p fikins, &.C., employed ; but tltey nave b^ of no avail, t
caiincri, therefore, advocate any of ihcm." — Ei*.
Tetania.
This dangerous, and often Ihial, disorder, may be either
SyiHi'lomatir, or ItthfMilhic ; the foniwr wlien it pro<:ec<U from
an external injury, the latter wtivn otherwise occosioni-d.
I'he forn>er, also cailc<i Traumatic, ix niott eomnnnly caused
by |Mmciured wounds of the fool, audi as pricks iu sboein^ or
stepping on a nail in tbe streets. Sometimes it happens ulieT
docking, nicking, or ^kling ; but seldom till t^o or three weeks
after tlw operation. So likewise when it is caused by punctured
woundii, wliich are generally in a healing stale, or nearly well,
before the locked jnw uiki-^ place. I<liupiithic letanu« maybe
produced by exposure to wet and cold, and h often coinplicalcd
with inflammalion of the liver, tiie lungs, stomach, and bowels;
whict>, indeed, is one cause of its great l&tality. According to
Gibson, it is sometimes caused by bolts in the stomaeb. I have
B*^n two cases which appeared to be caused by tin- irritation of
wornu in the bowel*. It may l>c produced by violent exi-rtton;
and I have seen a ca^ where it took place in coniHX)uencc of se-
wn punishment in the riding-school. In tlie latter stage of
■lomacli staggers the jaws are sometimes locked, and tlie disease
'■oRtetimn comes ou when no cause can be assigned for Ju
1'h« rtfmptomt arc spasm or cramp of tlic miiKlei of itiv jaw,
DISEASES or THE BRAIN AND NERVES.
which prevents the horse from opening his mouth, or if he is
able to opi-n it a little, it is not sufficient to enable him to feed
or masticate, though ho sometimes appears to have a good appe-
tite. Occasionally (here U a considerable flow of saliva from the
moutlt, and tlie tongue has )>ccn found diseased. The dispsse
gradually incrcues, and the cpasm or cramp extends to the
muscle* of tin; neck, back,' and limbs so that when ilic antmal is
made to walk, iie ap{>enrs as if all his joinu were stilfenvd ; hi«
note b poked out, his ears and tail erect, and sometimes his
evM are distorted. Ttie noetrila are generally expanded, and
ihc breathing often disturbed. On tlie first appearance of the
disorder tite hors« often seems to ait little, but neighs upon any
^ne entering the stable, and seems eager for his food ; in the
lUer Btogn, Iwwever, the cramp is so gent-ral and m painful,
it is uid(r««tiiig to look at the HnimaK 'Hte alTectt-d inti»c)e«
el exceedingly hard, and tlie animal moves as if lie was a single
the least motion is painful, and agitation produces the
itest distress. Sometimes the disease is entirely confined to
head ami neek, and then it is more likely to be enrable than
the s|iiifm bwonies general. Thi» local alfection ik c.iiied
irgeon* TrUmui, whilst ll»c other is ftcsignalwl Trtantu.
im mid camphor are generally contiden'd t)iv most effectual
nedi<it for locked jaw, and whcii tlic mouth » so close, or the
Qwer of swallowing so diminished, tliat medicine cannot be in-
troduced into tl>e stomncli, it h ihruwn up an a clyster.
A lale "Titer, Mr. Wilkinson, lias published an account of
„ »eiity-cight cases of locked jaw, twenty-four of «'hieh he
cured ; but in all die successful cases, the jaws were sufficiently
to admit of medicine being given, iltongh widi dilficulty,
Idle, in the four fatal cases, llicy were *o close as to prevent any
oedicinv from being introduced. Mr. Wilkinson first gives a
jrgative and an emollient eh'sler ; he does not bleed unlcia tlie
ilae points out the proprioty of that e^'acuation. He directs
be jawa, and all oilier parts affected with spasm or cramp, to he
well embroealed with a mixture of oil of turpentine, olive oil,
liquid ammonia and mustard, and afterwards covered with fre*h
lieep skins, tltc flesh side inwards; whidi must be continued
ind changed a* oOcn as is necessary, so as to keep up a constant
uer:(pirntion from die gnru. After the operation of the purgative
^^Be gives a drench, composed of opium, camphor, and assafa-tidai
^^Bne drachm of each or moit), according to the occasion, and
^Hlirow^ up a clyster composed of the same ingredients, with a dc-
P^oction of rue. If the disease continue, and the horse become
costive, lite puT]gativc and emollient clyster are repeated, and the
^^jiium. Sec. dLtcontinui^ until tlu; eiIi^ct of the purgative has
^fpeased. )fr. Wilkinson appears to have been very diligent and
^patient in the treatment of lliis disorder, and not discouraged, as
|£
3
113
DIBBASK8 Of THE HOI
we too often are, by the dilliculltcs thai occun<c(i. It wiu gene>
rally found necessary to curitiniiv lliv trcatiiieiit ilirt^i-, four, or
even five weeks, before l)ie ilw^iue was subdued. As a further
encour«^emeiU to fiilure palkiHrc and p«raevenuice in the ireat-
tiient of tliiK dflii^-rout divorder, I sludl notice a case related by
LCibton, from wliicli it appears tlmt not only medicine, bat
llBoiirishmetit also, niay i>e administered in the form of clysten.
[ " The liorse was seized rather suddenly with this kind of coa-
' vulsion (locked jaw), vrhieli w*a? first oluervtsl a* he Wat Iradrilg
out to water in the afternoon. He mine »-cling alonj; with lii*
now; lunii-d otii, hiseyrs fixed and iunimvable, witli nil ilteotI)«r
■igiis that usually attend this disorder ; and when he came to tlie
trough could not reach the water liecause of the cramp and stiffs
neas in his neck, and tvlien it nas l>eld to him in a pad he could
not drink, though he showed an eagerness fur it ; his mouth
heiag shut up so close (hat it was scarce possible to put a knife
between his leeth. Wc found it impracltcablu to ndminisUT any
kind ofmnlictne, till, by nibbing bis cheeks, jaws, temple*, and
his whole neek for a considerable time, wt? made a shift, with
great diUlcuhy, to thrust down pan ofa calomel ball on the end
of a small slick, and then to pour into hi§ ito^irils a very small
portion of a strong cephalic drink ; thinking hy itiat means to
convt^ the ball ilowiiwurd into his stomach, which, however, had
but little elTeci, any fui-tlier than this, that he had not sach sud-
den fits and agitations as 1 have (cen in oiliers in the like
circumstances, but continued more quiet; neither did hi» fever
increase, an ununlly hap[K-ns when the disorder is gaining ground.
But all tills while his mouili continued so much shut that he
could neiilirr rat nor drink for tliree weeks, only by continually
rubbing his Jaws and neck, he would sometimes make a shifi to
suck about a handful of scalded bran, or sometimes a little oat-
meal moistened with warm n-aler, but in so small a quantity that
it is [KiKsihIe lie might have starved, had not other methods been
I taken to ki-ep liim alive. I have often observed thai the forcing
^tlie jaws open by violent mCAns puts a horse into such agunies
that it rather increiL«i-s than abates the symptoms, and theretiire
1 contriTed to give him bulb hie food and physic bv the funda-
ment, through a pipe fourteen inches long ; by which he seemed
1 [o receive great benefit, for we could pei'ceive the tymptomi
nbate daily. His Hanks grew more quiet, he stood tnorv still,
and free from sudden fits and stnitingK, all which symptoms are
usual in (he incnfiLxe iiM\ continuitme of iliis disorder.
■* The clvster was repeated once a day for a fortniffht; and,
by way of diet, three or four quarts of milk boiled with oatmeal
und water was given every day, a bag with a long pipe being left
'In the stable for that purpose only, lie retained every lliiutf
that WH adminiitvrcd tlial way, which the guls appeari'd to suck
UISEASEH OF THE BR41K AND NERVES. 118
up, their natural molian tieing inverted for tliejiurpoHe: and as
lie scarcely ate more in tlii-ee vreeks than was siiffieient to support
him one day, ttiere caii be iio doubt that lie derived mucb nou-
ri&liment from these clysters. lie had two men coiintauitly lo
look after him, who Itaid orders to rub liis whole body often,
which greatly helped to relax bis skin and remove the crampitics.'i
of his muscles: and although he had not for the Rr^t fuicni^fiit
recovered llie use of his jaws, yet we observfd liim daily to move
with lees stilTiieaJ, and often to lick the matiger as if lie craved
for food. He also breathed with less difficidly, and liad several
other good signs. I now determined to try the effect of an
opium clyster ; therefore I di^olved half an ounce of crude opium
in one of his clysters, which was followed with these circum-
stances— that tlie horse soon lay down, he began to point his
ears backwai'ds and forwards, and could move his neck pretty
freely, and his mouth wa; so fur at liberty lliat he took bis drinks
with liKltf or no difficulty, and could eat bay and bran sufficient
to sitslain him, lie likewise moved hb whole body so readily
that we could walk him an hour every day. That I might follow
up this good elfect of the opium clyster, I gave him some davs
after 1 oi. of Matthew's pill, which contains about two druclima
of opium, and the same quantity of assalVelida. This was given
by the itioutli, in a ball, and repeated the following day. lie
now recovered daily, and took his drinks only twice a week ; and
as soon as he recovered his flesh was gently purged, after which
he got |>erfectly well,"
Gibson attribviles tliis disorder to ihc irritation of bolt*, or
other worms in tlie stomach. He disapproves of mirgativcs
(t^iilier as drenches or as clysters) and bleeding. Mo<Wii prac-
titioners do not reckon bolts among the causes of locked jaw,
which is most commonly brought on by the causes before? noticed.
1'he great benefit derived from the opium clyster should be
carefully recollected. Mr, Wilkinson examined four horses llmt
died under his care, and found the nia niaicr of the spinal
marrow inflamed, and the marrow it»ell of a dark colour. Tlig
uia mater of tlie brain was likewise inflamed in a slight degree.
When locked jaw comes on after docking or nicking, he applies
fomentations lo the uil, and afierwanU dresses the wuuntl with
digestive ointment. I cured one case of locked jaw by blistering
the back from the withers to the tail, and giving opium ami
camphor — which we found great difficulty ni giving. Every
now and tl»en a little gruel was given. By persevering in ibi«
treatment the jaws gradually relaxed, and in twenty-four bourn
the horse was able to eat hay.
fMr. W, Percivall relates a successful case of rrnnina(JcW«»««,
treated by bleeding, physic, opium injections, hik) blisters.
Mr. Saundei-s relates two successful casus of JdhjKitittc Manus,
I
k
DISEASES OT TUE ItOltSC.
Trostmeiil : — large blood-lcltingi, purgatives, digitalis, campliur.
Slid l))Uientig tlie loins.
Mr. W. Hei)dereon relates in the 5l)i vol. of the Veterinarian
two lucceskful caaea of tetanus, one idioputliic, tlie ntlier sycnp-
tomatic. The treatment conBi»(ed of purgative*, injcctiom, and
opiate*, and blisters and selons to the spine.
Mr. Youatt relates a successful case, which he Imtietl with
copious atKl repeated blecdii^, croton seed, and digiialis.
Air. KarkecB, in a valuable communication to the Velfrinarias
vol. viii., consitlei's the brain and spinal marrow to be princijulk
the Beat of the disease; but he has found in idiufMlhic icianin
that the stomach and bowels, and Bvmpuihelie nerve it) tbe
Deighhourliood, have been considerably diseased — a fact which
cni) be- l)orne out by the present writer. Mr. Karkeek, therefore^
rccomineiKU blistering ihe abdomen extensively, to produce i
counter-action in the system. He goes 6o far as to consider tlial
a diseased slate of the digestive organs is invariably the primary
cause in idiopRthic tetanus.
Mr. Karltifk relates four sueces&ful case* treated by large and
rcjK-Htpd bleeding, purgatives, opium and camphor injections, aiid
blisters in eoriie casefl to the spine, in others to the abdomen.
Mr. Karkcck considers the disease to be very frequent in the
west of Cornwall, owing to its being almost surrounded by thr
sea; and believes idiopalliic much more curable than irauiaslic
tetanus. — Ed.]
String Halt.
Thin disnise is characterised by the sudden and ■piiBlfilft
mmnicr in which the hock is bent, the leg at the Minte tHofr
being carried very high. It is not ii liinicno$K, for ihcre h ntf
dropping on the other leg, and it cannot be felt by the rklrr ltk«
hocK lameness; but it is an unecjunl action of tlie mnsdes,
arising, most probably, from some alFectioti of the nervm. In
some cases it is said the Etiflf joint lia-i been found diitrosnl, and
in others the spine itself has been affected. Hut a few years ago
I had the pleasure of spending a day with the late Dr. .lenner at
Dcrkley, when he informed me that string halt depended upon
u disease of tbe spine, and showed me several vertebra?, wnidi
afforded a proof of it.
[Mr. t". Spooner, the talented assistant nrofessor at (he Veteri-
■ nary College, has clearly shown that in the majority of cases U
'is owing to disease of the ;frpat sciatic nerve, which supplies tlic
muscles of the hind extremity. Nen-ous energy is thus inipor>
frctly sup[^ied, and, consequently, tlie most powerful muscle*
act the most. It is often connected with disease of llie liock,
and is sometimes preceded by it. Treatment is useless. — En.]
DISKASES OF THE CHEST AND AIB-FASSAGES. 115
CHAP. XXIV.
DISEASES OF THE CHEST AND AIR-PASSAGES.
Inflammation of the Lungt. — Pneumonia,
[Some years since, when the earlier editioos of this vork were
printed, it was customary to class all ihe diseases of the chest
under one head — inflamed lungs; and the same treatment was
prescribed for alL Later research, however, has considerably
altered this opinion ; and although it is an undeniable fact that
inflammatory afl^tions of the different contents of the chest are
ofien extremely complicated with each other, yet in numerous
instances the symptoms of the different affections are so dis-
tinctly marked, that it would be absurd to deny their separate
and distinct existence. Thus, without making any distinctions
but what are warranted by observation and experience, and are
necessary for the judicious employment of remedial measures,
we shall have to consider—
Pneumonia, or inflammation of the substance of the lungs.
Pteuritis, or inflammation of the membrane covering the lungs
and lining the chest.
Bronchitit and Trachitis, or inflammation of the mucous mem-
brane lining the bronchial tubes and the trachea; besides
Catarrh^ or inflammation of the membrane lining the nostrils and
the throat. — Ed.]
Pneumonia, or PeripTteumony.
[Even this disease often presents itself in different forms ; some-
times running its course and ending fatally in less than twenty-
four hours, and in others extending to four or five days. In the
former variety the lungs after death appear black, in fact gorged
with blood ; and this used to be considei'ed as a state of mortifi-
cation, and it was common to say of such a horse, that " his
lights were rotten as a pear;" and if the horse had recently been
purchased of a dealer, and an action were brought for the reco-
very of the value of the horse, the black appearance of the lungs
was generally considered as a sufficient proof that the animal
was rotten and unsound, and the dealer was cast in consequence;
whereas the congested appearance of the lungs ought to have
been considered, in the absence of any appearance to the con-
traiy, as a proof of the recent production and rapid nature of the
disease.
Sucb appearance of the lungs is generally afforded when a
borse dies after over-exertion in the chase, or from being vio-
lently driven when not in proper condition.
1 2
119
OISBASes OP THR HORSE.
llic Stfinptt'iru of this form of itiflnitinialioii of the lungs are
strongly niurkcil, and ut once point out the EuiTcririg organ.
The bn-athiiig i* gn^illy nRV-ctcu ; quick, sltorti dwlrcssed. and
oflfn ax many tts sixty or scwtity ri-spi rations in a minute, llic
pulM', too, i» very (iiijcit ; »cvi-nty, t-ighty, or ninety a minute,
itiid «fl«-n kuihII uixi atniiKd iiupfrci'iniblo. Tlir legs and can are,
ur soon W-coinv, icy cold ; thtr moulli u«unlly liul ; thv tncmbrane
of the lujKtrilx intci)»fly red, or of s livid colour. The hone
|>i-efen n Mtanding poilurv, with the lore leg* strelchcti apart, so
that the niuKcles external 10 the chest may assist in respira-
tion; tin* appetite i* altogether lost, mid !«• eagerly thrusts his
Iiend toward* the door, oi- tlie codIckI piaw in the »lablc. If
n^lii'f l>e not very soon ohtaint^d, the wverity of tlw symptoms
tiicFcuse; tJii* air cells bccoim' choked with bloo<l; and the horse
(lies, as it were, from suiTocaiion, in tlie course of twelve to
twenty-four hours. Mr. Percivall dislingiilshe* this disease from
pnoutnonia, and designates it coiuftttwn oflht lumji,.
When blood is abstracted, it is almost iiivaiiiibly finmd of a
very dark colour, which is owing to the gorged >lale of the lungi
preventing the purification of the blood from Liking place.
Trutr Itt/lammaeiun of the Limat, wht-n its symptoms arc un<
subdued, usually terminates fatally in the course of four or five
days; though sometimes it gets into a sub-acute state, and lingen
on for several weeks.
Its first symptom is usually a diminution or Iocs of appetite,
hut in some cases n troublesome cough may precede tbis want uf
ap]H-lilv for several ilays.
'I'lie pulse and respiration are soon affected, both becoming
exceedingly quick; tlie pulse from iiixiy to one hundred in a
minute, and the hreailiing either almost as fast, or otherwise
laborious nnd difficult.
The pulse may Ix- either full, and strong or hai-d, or olbcrwixc
weak and almost imuori-'eptible ; in ilie latter ease our prognosis
is more unfavourable than in the former. 'I'tie legs and ears
are usually cold and tlie mouth hot, and tlie membrane of tJie
nostrils and eyelids intensely red. In some cases ihore is a
cough, in others none whatever; and often when there lia* been
a congh before, it ceases as tlie inflammation becomes more in-
tense.
Ttie l>owels are generally inclined to be costiv^ and after the
disease ban existed for some time^ the dung is coated with
mucus.
Some insight into the nature and extent of the disease may be
obtained by what is called atnetiflalion.
On applying the car to the sides of the cheat, when the animal
!s in a nealtby state, we nutici' a murmuring sound, difficult to
be described, Imt readily beard. 'Hiis souod is produced by the
DISEASES OF THE CHEST AND AIR-PASSAGES. 117
air rushing into the air cells, and is much greater in the young
than in the old subject. When the lungs are partially indurated,
the cells being filled up, there is at that part an absence of the
usual munnur, and an increase of it elsewhere. This result
sometimes attends the presence of fluid in the chest. Afler exer-
cise the murmur is increased ; and if in a state of rest the sound
at one part is increased, and not at another, the latter part is
probably in a state of disease.
The principal indication of a diseased state of the lungs is de-
rived from a sound called bronchial respiration, and somewhat
resembles the sound made in sawing wood. It is occasioned by
the air rushing in and out of the large hronciual tubes, there
being some impediment to its passage. This sound is heard in
peripneumony and in acute pleurisy, and more particularly when
both diseases are combined.
There are various other alterations of sound noticed, but they
are of minor importance, and less readily detected ; they may,
however, be found described in Mr. Percivall's work on the Dis-
eases of the Chest, &c., where the essay of M. Deiafond on the
subject b translated.
The employment of auscultation is much assisted by percussion.
Od tapping the chest sharply with the knuckles, the sound
dicited, if the lungs are indurated, or there is water in the
chest, will be much more dead than in a healthy state ; whilst, on
the other hand, when the lungs are emphysematous, as in broken
wind, the sound will be augmented.
The Treatment of this disease must depend on the particular
stage in which we may And it, and must be modified by the
peculiar symptoms that may be present. In the first place, let
us suppose a horse is blown in hunting ; ridden till nature is ex-
hausted, and the animal can go no further. In such case the
lungs are in a congested state, and the proper changes in the
blood cannot take place ; the breathing is of course accelemied
to the greatest d^ree, and the pulse quick and weak, and pro-
bably imperceptible. If the vein be opened, the blood flows
with difficulty, and is exceedingly dark and thick. In such case
it is of litde use to abstract blood until the pulse becomes per-
ceptible, and our best plan is at once to administer a stimulant.
A botde of wine, administered in the hunting iield, has in many
a case proved of essential service, and in some instances saved
tbe animal. Two ounces of spirit of nitrous ether, administered
in a pint of warm ale or water, is still better : its efiect will be
to equalize in some degree the circulation, and to rouse the nerv-
ous system; and soon after its administration wc shall pro-
bably And the pulse becoming fuller and more perceptible. In
this state we should abstract blood — as much as we can obtain
without producing fitinting. The same method of treatment
I 3
in
DISEASES oT ntE noitss.
may be pursued wlipne%-er the tungs are in tliU cotigMted stnU^
llioti^)) arising IVoni other causes Ihan ovei^exertion ; if, indeed,
ill tiifliimif] Itihgi, lite pulse is at the onset |>arti(:ulikrly wcdk or
inipcnrcptihie, a sliniulaut may be cniployetl with aclvsiiia^
(linu^ti it ii not dettintbte to continue it.
iiioodlciting is, Itowever, our shect-utclior in t)>e trentmeniof
inilnnifd lungs; and un lest we are enabled to alMirftcl a Imgc
(jtinniily, our chance or recovery b but sli);bL It i», liowvver,
uwleu to prescribe tlie abstraction of any (Miritriilftr qustiliiy of
' blood; its i-IIocl on tlie pulse sliuuld be our guide. A larf{«
orillce ilioiild be made in tbc juj^uliir, and titt^ blcedinf^ continued
until ihe moiilli becomes considerably cooler, tind tin- pulie
alterc<l in its cliarucler; if lielbre bard or full, till it i* lort
and scarcely to be felt. 'Die quantity of blood «bsti-ac<«d
before llil» efTcci is ob{»ined uiiiy vary fi'om eiglit [mxiikU to
xixii-en, (iccordino: to tbe stuie of i)h- pulse and tlte jH-euliaritie*
(if tlie nnima). I'lie bict-diiijr may, if iits^eMary, be iv[>e;kted in
diininislied qiiantiiiis unce \tT twice, vriib intervals «f nix or
twelve buuii; but it is tbe firti bluodletiiitg oti wbicb we must
principally depend. The appearance of the blood tnu»t not be
ailovri'd to have raucb influence over our irealnveiit. Il is not,
liowt-rrr, to be aliogetlier despised, luit is chiefly useful iti asj-ist-
. ing our pro;;no»is m to the terminatinn of the case. If ibe blood
t flows tardily, h very black, and luring a vt^ry weak c<M^;ulu^l,
] the cliHn<:e* are nltogeilier unfavourable : if, however, it presenis
a thick huffy coat, and very linn coaf^ulum, wc niay con-
clude that ihe horse is in a ttale not only to diiiianil but to
boar extensive bleedius, Kn<l we shall literally lin<t iM-neficinI
effects succeed its employment. Indeed, in ciiM'S of iii(bimnm>
tion, il is better to find the blood preseniinj; a bulTy eojit than
otherwise; unK«^ it should be likewise of a thick muddy aspect,
which is a bB<l sign.
AMieim:*. — AUbough bleeding most be our prinei|«il remedy,
yi-i w<> must not despise other assistance. Ahliuugb it is dnir-
rable in some degn-e lo unload the bowels we must take care
not 10 purge, for if wc do so, deatli will probably follow ; and from
HytnpBihv between the bowels and other iwris, a much smaller
do»e will act on them than in a state of hi'«lih. If, therrforoi
the iMweU are not coslive, no aperient will be requln-d; but if
ollierwise, we should administer an inji-clion, after backraking,
and give from one to two diaclims of aWs or, what is still belter,
about a pini of linseed oil ; lo liiis mild n[H-ri<-nt, which should
not be repealed, we may add a drachm of lartanxed antimony,
lhM« drachms of nitre, and one of digitalis. It is a dangerous
praelio' to administer small doM-s of aloes until the bowels are
acted on, as by this lime a sufficient quantity may accumutatc in
the system to do iri-e])arab]e mischief. The nitre, digitalis, and
DISEASES OF THE CHEST AND A I R- PASSAGES. 119
antimony may be repeated three times the first day, and twice
the second.
Mr. Percivall recommenda half a drachm of white hellebore
twice a day instead of the digitalis. It is a powerful medicine,
and lowers the pulse by producing nausea. It requires to be
given with caution, under the eye of the practitioner, and its
effecte carefully watched. Mr. Mavor advises two drachms of
extract of belladonna as a sedative. I have employed both these
medicines, and can speak to their good effects.
CoutUer-irritatum. — After the urgency of the symptoms have
been in some measure relieved by bloodletting, counter-irritation
may be very serviceable in preventing change of structure from
taking place. A blister is to be preferred, and should be applied,
as recommended by Mr. Percivatl, to the breast, in preference to
the sides, as it is much more likely to act in the former muscular
situation than in the latter. In Mtal cases, a blister will scarcely
ever produce any effect ; and this symptom is therefore justly
regarded as one of the most unfavourable that can possibly occur.
If the case be protracted, or takes on a sub-acute form, rowels
aod setons may be useful, as well as blisters.
The diet in inflammation of the lungs should consist of bran
mashes, hay, carrots, or green food ; and care should be taken
that the horse is not restored to his usual diet until the inflam-
matory symptoms have entirely ceased.
The body should be kept tolerably warm by clothing, and the
legs encased in flannel bandages ; their warmth having been pre-
viously restored by hand-rubbing, assisted by the application of a
liniment, composed of four parts of oil, one of spirits of turpen-
tine, and one of hartshorn, which should be rubbed in as often
as they become cold.
I( is of great importance that the horse should be allowed to
breathe tlie purest and the coolest air; for which purpose he
should be turned into a loose box, well ventilated, and in the
summer he may be turned into a paddock with advantage. — Ed.]
Svb-acute Pneumonia.
[When inflammation of the lungs takes on a sub-acute form,
either from the beginning or after an acute attack, our treat-
ment, though conducted on the same principles as that before
mentioned, must be less active in its nature. The symptoms are
more obscure, and demand more tact and discrimination : the
breathing is less disturbed, the pulse not so quick, the appetite
not so much impaired; and yet fatal mischief may be going on
under this insidious form, and, if not checked, may end in
death.
The bleeding should be less extensive, but more frequent than
I 4
DISEASES or me rorsi:.
slill more luvo rccourH? lo
being calk-d for, as wt-U ta
in Uk' acute attack ; and w mn«l
couiiter-initation, scluns or rowels
blisters.
The Tirmin/iHimt of iiifliimcd limgs nre various: in llie first
iluc« we iiuiy iiuve resoliiliun, in w))i<.'}i tlio iiiflnminatory action
quickly rlieckrd, aiid ilte luiig« are rcMtoml to a normal state;
, more frequcinly we Imvc souk; alteration of gtrticturc. This,
ever, after n wliilf, may bv mton-d to a liedttiy state ; bat
oRrii i» portiim of iln^ hiiipt becomes indurated or hepaiiu-d ; the
lirccil* an: tilled u|>, and snnuMinies the broucliial iiib«^^, io that
ttie (Miri frccjiifiiily becoiiu-* w ln-avy that it would iiiiik if placed in
water, ami it iKiiu longer abletu perform its function; tlie animal
Ih-conm tiiick-winded, lieinjf obliged (o brentlir, w to spcvk,
witit diminithfti lungK. In aoiiie cases absceMCK may form in
various luirts of lli« lungs; and the caKc, Utoiigti Jlalterinj; for
a vrhile> will Iieeome falul at la»l. — Eo.^
Plesrili*. — l^cvriry.
[It was formerly the cui.tom to class ihi* diu^nxe with ittnt
liefore deseril)ed ; but allliougli, in inanj complical<<d ciue*, tlu-y
may both exist at tbe same time in the »unie subject) yet tliere
tare others in wliicli the symptoms of pleuriiis are distinctly
narked, and in which the pott viorlem apjiearances have pro*ea
the nature «f the disease.
For Arse |H>inlingout ibedistinctionofthesc diseases, as wellu
for some valuable knowledj^e on tbe treatment of pleiiriiif^ we
are indebted lo the lale Mr. John Field, who thus de«cribn tlie
symptoms : —
" A deprcwed appeiirnnce ; hard, full, strong pul«', from 42 to
&4 ; )>ainful and iliniled re.spirntion ; in.ipirniioii (]uiek and in-
lerrnpteil ; expiration slow and piolon^jifl ; ^rv-iwurc «« /Ac ridfi
;>rj())/W, occasioning a peculiar grunt; twitcliings of the skin;
faint suppressed cough or sneeze ; the mrmhnme of the tuutrib vf
n natural colour, and the tongue moisl and clean.
" As the disease proceeds, ll)c pulse becomes more frequent,
imsti, and wiry ; respiration acceleratetl ; full impiration; diffi*
euh aitd painful expiration ; longno furred ; [laiches of sweat ;
reslletaneKs, delirium, and death.
" The symptoms of the first siagt continue from llirec to seven
days, when llie disease terminates fatiiliy, ur symptoms of tlio
^second ilnge eommencc.
" In fiivoomblc cases the quickness of pulse gradually dimi-
nishes, die appetite returns, the horw lies down; and in thrt-c
or four weeks may be cotitideri'd well, ihongli unfit for work."
M)-. Field thus distinguishes the symptoms of pneumonia from
lliose of pleurisy: — The o[)pr«»ed puUc of tbe former, tlie hard
I
febrile pdK of dwbner; iltr (Efinah nwrahn* expiration of
tbe one, tbe prcnfiu- re^tnoon of ifae otiMr; tkr iniMiarlT red
bne of tlir CTrfidi and Donrib in pneoBoni^ ibr abtraiv o^ dui
in pknritis ; the fmduni fron pnin on pmsar^ in ilir formn-,
and its ezhibitiaa in the luur ; tbe mhfaiess of tbr e:cirHntu««
in tbe onC) the nriafale tenperware in the other ; die olKtinue
standii^ in tbe on^ and Uw ftvqoent \yiaf down and getting up
in tbe other.
Tbe poti mmitim appearances are aometimes merely infiku-
mation of tbe pleura, witb paicbesof timpk. but more frequently
a coDsidoable ooUcction of fluid, pale or rellow, or reddish or
bloodj, in all three carities, with adhesion of the tunes to tbe
sides (^ tbe diest, and other morbid changes; sotnetinies the
pleura appears in a state of gangrme.
TrtatwiemL — Mr. Field reconunends the immediate abstraction
of blood, to tbe quantity of from ten to twenty pounds, to be re-
peated as tbe case seems to require. TTie bowels to be niotlo-
rately relaxed by a small dose of aloes, assisted by injections ;
and be was thai in the habit of giving white hellebore, in doses
from one scruple to half a drschm, combined with spirit of nitrous
ether, nitre, and tartarized aniimony.
A bluter on tbe thorax and sides, and a rowel in the brisket.
When tbe inflammatory symptoms evidently abated, vt<geubl»
tonics, as gentian and ginger, were advised ; and to which, when
the possibOi^ of bydrothorax was suspected, mild diuretics wero
added.
When eS'usion had evidently taken place, he recommended the
operation of paracentesis, or tapping. — Ed.]
[_Hi/(trothorax,
As tlie deposition of water in the chest is termed, although an
effort of nature to relieve inflammation, is yet generally attcniled
with a fatal termination.
Tbe only chance of relief is afforded by an operation called
paracentesis, or tapping, which consists in plunging an instru-
ment called a trochar between the ribs into tlic cavity of tlio
chest, and leaving the canula, or tube which encases the trochar,
and withdrawing the latter, by which an exit is afforded to the
fluid contained within the chest through the canula.
Tbe best situation for the operation is between the eighth and
ninth ribs, and near the cartilages; and the skin should bo pre-
viously drawn liRhtly forwards, by which means the opening will
be closed after the operation. It should be performed on bolh
sides of the chest, and may be repeated several timcN, and diu-
retic and tonic medicine should be given at the same time.
Although the majority of cases in which this operation has
123 DISEASES OF THE BORSE.
been practised have ended fatally, yet there are KTeral Buccns-
ful cases on record, — sufficient to justify its adoption when there
is a reasonable presumption of the presence erf" water in the chest.
This is denoted by the sudden cessation of the violence of the
symptoms at first, and an amendment of the appetite; but as the
water increases, the respiration becomes still more embarrasied,
and very frequently a spontaneous purging ensues. On applying
the ear to the chest the natural respiratory sound is lost; and oo
striking the chest it no longer sounds hollow, but dead.
The Symptoms of hydrotliorax, however, are by no means
always the same — they principally depend on the cause. It
may succeed intense inflammation of the lungs and the pleun,
or sub<acute or chronic inflammation of these parte. The symp-
toms may either nearly subside as the water is secreted, and the
cose present altogether a flattering appearance, or otherwise un-
favourable appearances, though modified, may still exist-— £d.]
[^Complicated Ciues. Although we have spoken of pnenmonia
and pleurisy aa two distinct diseases, and although the symptoms
of each are distinctly marked, yet it is still the fact that they are
very frequently combined togeUier; and then the symptoms may
cither denote the preponderance of the one disease over the
other, or otherwise tliey may be so nearly balanced as to render
the symptoms altogether obscure.
The Treatment of these complicated coses must be conducted
on the same principles as before detailed ; modified, however, by
the leading symptoms.
It may, however, be observed that these complicated cases are
more frequently fatal than simple affections either of the pleura
or the substance of the lungs. They rarely present the same
activity in the symptoms, but are usually more protracted in
their progress, and more deceitful in their character. — En.J
CHAP. XXV.
BRONCHITIS.— TRACHITIS. — INFLAMMATION OF THE DRONCHIAL
PASSAGES AM> WINDPIPE.
[The membrane which lines the bronchial tubes, as the air pass-
ages of tlie lungs are termed, as well as that which aflbrt^ on
internal covering for the larynx and trachea, is termed a mucous
membrane, and ia very liable to inflammation. When thus in-
flamed, the disease is termed Bronchitis, Trachitis, and Laryn-
gitis, according aa the hroncliia-, the trachea, or the larynx bears
the brunt of the attack. Theic parts are sometimes separately
BROMCHITI8, TRACHITI8, ETC. 123
diseased; but more frequently they are affected simultaneously,
though not perhaps in the aame degree, or to the same extent.
There are two forms of this disease, each distinctly marked,
the acute and the sub^ocute ; the latter being perhaps the more
frequent.
The former is an extremely dangerous disease, and very fre-
quently proves fata!. This is owing partly to the great extent
of membrane diseased, and the difficulty of affecting it by our
treatment, siid partly to the obscurity of its symptoms, and the
insidious nature of its approach, whereby it has often existed to
B great extent before attention has been called to iL
It may be produced by exposure to cold or sudden changes of
temperature, there being a predisposition in the part to become
af^ted.
It more frequently occurs in the autumnal and winter seasons,
but particularly in the former, and during the prevalence of
wet weather.
The Symptotm are at first ver}' obscure : a cough, a staring coat,
and slight impairment of the appetite, and a discharge of mucus
from the nostrils. The case perhaps is regarded as a common
cold ; suddenly the appetite is lost, the pulse is remarkably quick
and weak, and the membrane of the nostrils intensely reddened.
In very severe cases there is a suppression of all nasal discharge,
and often a disappearance of the cough. In fatal cases the
symptoms increase in intensity for several days.
There is a total loathing of all food ; the nasal membranes
change from a red to a purple hue; the extremities are cold;
the pulse becomes quicker, weaker, and more imperceptible; the
respiration is for some time not quickened, but deeper than na-
tural ; at length it becomes quicker, and the horse obstinately
prefers a standing posture.
Thus the symptoms continue getting gradually more aggra-
vated, until death closes the scene in the course of a week, more
or less.
An inspection after death shows the mucous membrane of the
broncbiee and trachea. Instead of being white, its natural colour,
absolutely purple or dark green, from inflammation and gangrene.
This, however, is bronchitis in its most severe and dan'gerous
form ; but it is fortunately not so frequent as when it assumes
a milder appearance. In severe cases, there is often a consider-
able discharge from the nostrils, and a distressing cough ; the
pulse is quick, from 50 to 70 ; the respiration is disturbed, but
not much quickened; the extremities preserve their temperature;
and the appetite, though considerably diminished, is not totally
lost.
This form of bronchitis is more frequent than the former ; and
though severe, and attended with danger, is yet not so fatal as
124
DISEASKS or THE nOflSE.
tlint before described. In the latter kind ttie inflummitory
BCtion in grent measure expends it^etf in the increased »ecn>tion
of mtictM ; whilst in the former description the inletmitv of die
infltimmniion suppresses all secretion, and quickly [ussea on to a
Riort- miiligiiant and fatal termination.
nesi<teii the ti>'o forms of bronchitis jutl described, we have
often a milder description, termed sub-acute, in n-hicli Uic
symptoms of tlie latter kind arc present, but altogether in a
milder form; the pulse ia less frequent, the cough lees sev<-re, th<!
appetite not so im])aired; and yet these symptoms may insidi-
ously creep on, until many of the bronchial tubes and air cfWt
an: destixtyed by a change of structure, the ca|>acity of the luiign
impaired, and the animal becomes thick- u-inded.
Thit alteration of structure may result fixxm bronchitis* eithrr
in it^ neuie or sub-acute form.
, Occasionally bronchitis degenerates into what is called aMrom'c
'itaie; tliat i^, the inllammalion lu-arlv or ^utte ceases, but Ui<^
discharge and cough continue, particularly the former.
Bronchitis is very apt to be mistaken for inHaminatioti of the
lungs ; atul although the part attacked isaportion of iliese organs,
and the diseases arc oiten present at the same time, yel the
distinction is iinpoi-tant, inasmuch as in one case a mucous mem-
brane is diseased, in the other tlie cellular structure of the lungs:
tliL' symptoms of these aifections nrc not oiilv dilTi-renti but
tlie treatment too requires mod ificu lion. Dronchitis very fre-
quently assumes the form of an epixoolic, attacking a number
of hoi-se» at the same time. When this is the case the discluuvc
from tiic nodtiilit is exceedingly profuse, and is often of a yw-
lowifih and sonu'times of a greenish hue.
Thi* discn«; is generally longer running its course than pm'u-
moniu; and when its progrei^i is unfavourable, it lerniinutci in
dcnlh in the course of from five to ten days,
^riie 'I'reatmeni of bronchitis must depend on the form which it
uiumes. We must have recourse to bleeding in tite acute diMiue,
but not to the same extent as in pneumonia. Fiom thi-ev to five
quarts of hlood wilt generally he a sufficient abstraction, but tiiii
must be regulated by the state of the pulse during the o{M>rution ;
M soon as it Ciils under the finger the bleeding sliould ceaac. It
it sometimes, tlioiigli rarely, requisite to bleed again lite same
day, but more frequently on the following day; and sometimes
three or four venesections are n^uitx^, whicli of course muit }ye
n-gulaiiJ by the symptoms. 'ITie later bloodlettings, ln>wevi'r,
miul be in diminixhi-d quantities. When bronchitis asnuniet aii
4f>idcmic form, we nnist be still more moderate in our \'ene-
scclions, and likewise when it appears in a sub-acute state.
The Imwels are rery frequenlly in a costive stale, and shouhl
be itnloaded by raking and injections; but the greatest caution
CATABBai COLD, SORE THROAT, ETC 125
must be observed in the administration of aperients, for pur^n^
which is so dangerous in pneumonia, is still more injurious in
bronchitis. It is found that when one mucous membrane is dis-
eased, other membranes of the same nature are from sympathy
in a very irritable state. Thus, though it is desirable in this
disease to unload the bowels, it is injurious to do ao by irritating
their internal coats.
We may, however, venture on giving from one to two drachms
of aloes, or five drops of croton oil ; or, what is still better, a pint
or nearly so of linseed oil. This aperient, however, should rarely
be repeated. It will be desirable to give likewise, in the form
of a ball, digitalis half a drachm, tartarized antimony one drachm,
nitre tliree drachms ; to be repeated twice a day.
Mr. Percivall recommends white hellebore instead of the digi-
talis, in the same doses : this medicine, however, requires cautious
watching. Extract of belladonna is also employed with ad-
vantage.
Cotmter-irritation is of great importance in this disease. In
the course of six or twelve hours after the first bleeding, the
course of the windpipe should be blistered as well as the breast ;
or setons should be inserted in the course of the windpipe, and
a rowel in the brisket. Blisters have the advantage of exciting
a quicker action, and rowels and setons a more lengthened
eroct. In the sub-acute or chronic forms of the disease, the tatter
may be preferable, but in the more severe cases the speedier
action of the blister b demanded ; and it is often desirable to
employ both methods of counter-irritation.
The proper action of the blister or the seton leads us to
form a favourable prognosis, but not to the same extent as in
pneumonia ; for in the latter disease the case scarcely ever becomes
httal after the blisters or setons have produced a proper effect,
whilst in bronchitis it occasionally does. This is owing to the
circumstance that in pneumonia the circulation is more languid
on the surface of the body, and the blood more inwardly deter-
mined than in the other disease. — Ed.]
CHAP. XXVI.
CATARRH, COLD, SORE THROAT, ETC
[Catarrh, or cold, as it is commonly called, is an inflammation
of the membrane lining the nostrils and the throat, and neigh-
bouring parts. It may attack the whole of tliese parts, or be
confined to one only. It may be so slight as to pass away with-
out treatment, or so severe as to threaten sufFocatinn and en-
ISO
DIIRASEB OF THE BORU.
danger life. I'lio jtymplaina depend very mudi on the piirtlcultr
part altacktHl: if (Ih; iiillammation be conlinctl to tlic nosirili^
there is sm-cxiiig, rvdtiesii of llic membrane, and an incrMttd
secivtion, al first often wiilcry, and afterwards of a mucous ch»-
niclcr: iflhcplinryiix U aOecled, lliereisa difficulty of swnllow-ing;
■nd if llitf larynx is involv<?d, there b a con^li. In «oiite owt
'abKMan form about these parts; in others the throat iiuiy be-
come ulcvratKl. In very slight cases there is no con*titiiiiona]
dwturbNtwe; in others ilieic nrv fevcrisli symptoms — a bgt
mouih, an impaired appetite, and a pulse quickeited to from
40 to 50. Very freauviitly ihc attack commence* in the
clmnibers of the nostrils, and afterwards extends iuclf to the
throat.
Hits diecwe has been termed a cold, from iHe iuppo«ition thai
it was prodiic«-() by cold; but it is more frequently oceuiioncd by
tlie alternation from cold to heal, for few horses vet cold from
being turned to grass from a warm stable; whiTiit nothing is
more oominon than for horees to be affected with catarrh oii
I being taken from grass into a warm stable, ExiMtaun; to cold
will, however, produce tl»c disean-; but it is then rather owii^
to lite n-itction which follows ihan lo tlw cold itself.
Calnrrlu are much more frequent during the moulting KUon
limn ai aiiy oilier period ; and particularly in the aulumji, ■ml
during the prevalence of wet weather.
Ilii* disease freaiiently apjicars ns an epizootic, when the
symptoms are usually more uigciit, the discharge more profutc,
and the d«biliiy greater. In this form it is wry common
amongst the young stock in racing stables, wliere it is lermwl
the di'>lcm[)er ; and sometimes ll>e qrmptoma of caturrii af ipear
in other discnses, as in influonm, an account of which will be
separately givi*n.
The duration of an attack of catarrh is reiy uitc<-rinin; it
may lust only a few days, or as niaiiy weeks. ThiK in mring
partly to the violence of the iittack, and porily to the tilioKyncnuy
of the animal. Sonic hordes arc so susceptible as to take cold
Ironi itie sligiitest caUKo, and arc frequently suflVring IVom tlie
dlM-nM.> ; others are rarely, if ever, so affected, however niudi
cxnoM-d.
The Termination of calarrh may be, us it gcnemliy is,
nfolttlian or restoration lo hi'alth ; or Hlcrratimt of tin- ihronl, or
roaring, or glanders; bcsidi-s which, iho inflammation may
extend itself down the wiiKlpi[H', and the lungs may become
aHivteil, and death may titsue.
'llic 7V«i/mot/ nniBt depend on the sCT'crity of the attadc.
In M>i»e slight ease* a lew bran niaRhes, and h tittle nitre, six
driichms, perhaps, two diiys su <■!>■«< ivcly, may be all th^it is
iH'cessary. In other cases, iu which there are tbc symptoms of
CATARRH, COLD, SORE-THROAT, ETC. 127
fever, together with a cough, it will be prudent to abstract from
5 to 10 lbs. of blood, and to administer from 2 to 3 drachms of
aloes, so as tuildly to relax the bowels ; and to follow this with
the following ball, given several days successively : —
Nitre 3 dr.
Camphor 1 dr.
Tartarized Antimony 1 dr.
Digitalis ^ dr.
Made into a ball with treacle.
When there is a difficulty in swallowing, or a cough, it will be
advisable to stimulate the throat externally by rubbing on a mild
liquid blister, or in severe cases inserting a seton.
When there is a considerable discharge from the nostrils, it is
a good plan to steam them, by suspending a nose>bag containing
bran infused in boiling water. *
When the inflammation appears to be extending down the
windpipe, it is necessary to apply a blister, or insert setons in its
course.
The diet during a severe catarrh should consist principally of
mashes, and of succulent food, such as carrots in the winter,
and grass in the summer.
If the case becomes chronic, the nasal gleet continuing, and
the animal becoming poor, it will be desirable to administer
tonics, such as the following: —
Sulphate of Iron Q dr.
Ginger 1 dr.
Gentian 2 dr.
To be made into a ball with treacle, and administered once a
day for several days. — Eo.]
* Bj meanfl orRead's patent medicated Vapour Inhaler (repreaentrd below),
the nostrils con be convenienllj steamed, either wilh hot water or a medi-
cated fiitni^ion. The water ma; be kept heated by a small lamp, or an iron
heater umilar to those used for tea-urns, Sic.
128 SI8EASFS OF THE HORSE.
Scarlatina.
[This disease is very rare in the horse, there being but a few
cases on record.
Mr. Percivall treats of it in his late work, and thus deBcriba
its nature, symptoms, and treatment: —
" Febrile catarrh, speedily succeeded by the appearance of
scarlet spots upon the Schneiderian membrane and sortace of the
skin, attended with anasarca, and in some cases dyspnoea.
" Symptoms. — For two or three days at tlie commencement it
will probably be mistaken for catarrh ; about this time, however,
its veritable nature becomes manifested by the appearance of
numerous scarlet spots or blotches npon the membrane lining
the nose, possessing the hue of arterial blood, insular in sixe
and figure, and visible as high up as the membrane can bs
inspected. These appearances mostly assume the character ai
petecblie, though I have seen them running in streaks. Th^
look like so many patches of extravasated blood; but if one of
them is wounded, blood instantly trickles down the nose, aad
assures us that, partially and singularly distributed as it is, it is
still fluid, and still contained within its vessels.
" In passing our finger over the red spots, nothing like pimple
or pustular elevation of surface is discoverable. The skin is
every where similarly bespotted ; at least, I inter so from the re-
sults of my examination of the body of one horse that died of the
disorder. A mucous defluxion proceeds from the nose. Aiw>
sarca is a common attendant ; the 1^^, sheath, and belly being
on occasions considerably tumefied. The respiration is quickene<^
hut in such a manner as rather to indicate pain than embarrass
ment. The pulse is likewise accelerated, and beats with force.
There exists great disinclination to move about. The appedte
is either quite lost, or very much impaired.
" Treatment. — In two cases, early venesection, closely followed
up by the exhibition of purgative and diuretic medicine, irith
walking exercise, proved completely successful. Another case^
however, had a fatal termination : it was not altogether in my
own hands, and I attributed the unfortunate issue in some mea-
sure to excess of walking exercise, practised for the purpose of
keeping down the anasarca which supervened upon the primaiy
attack.**— Ed.]
STRANGLES. IS9
CHAP. XXVII.
BTRAMOLES.
CThis disease probably derives its name from a symptom which
is occasionally present, in wbtcli the animal is threatened with
Bufibcation.
It is a disorder peculiar to young liorsea, and attacks them
most frequently between the third and fifth year, though not un-
(requently before this period, and sometimes after it, and now
and then we even meet witb it in old horses.
It used to be supposed that every horse becomes affected with
it at some period of his life, and tbat it was necessary for the
constitution, and a means of carrying off impurities. From the
number of hands into which horses usually pass, it is difficult to
ascertain whether they invariably become subject to this disease
or not; and therefore this antiquated assertion is rather dif-
ficult to disprove. My own opinion is, (hat not only is the
complunt not invariable, but that a moiety of horses altogether
escape, which I tfaink will be borne out by observation amongst
agricultural boises, that are both bred and worked on the same
nrm.
The disease sometimes occurs at grass, when the animal is
under two or three years of age, and sometimes the symptoms
are so mild that no treatment is required, at others s(v severe
as almost to threaten suffocation ; and it then becomes imperative
to take up the colt, and have recourse to the most judicious
treatment.
The sympbmu of strangles are a swelling and abscess between
the lower jaw bones, accompanied frequently by sore throat, and
other catarrhal symptoms. There is often a considerable degree
of fever present, together with an indisposition for food, as well
as BD inability to swallow it; liquids being swallowed with greater
difficult than solids.
The swelling upder the jaw, slight at first, gradually in-
creases, the other symptoms increasing in severity at the same
time. When matter has formed, it usually points, as it is termed,
externally ; and if not opened, the abscess bursts, and the symp-
tcmiB are afterwards much relieved.
Sometimes an abscess hursts internally, and the matter is dis-
charged through the nostrils.* Occasionally the neighbourhood
of the parotid glands is affected, and the swelling is so consider-
able as to threaten suffocation, and demand the performance of
the operation of trachaeotomy.
Sometimes the enlargement of the gland becomes hard and
* In a few instances the Buatachian CBTities have been Blled nith matui.
130
SiSBMSS OF THE HORSE.
slu^iah ; and th« syniptoms, though mildt are obsliriato. The
diseasi! ia then termed (he bastard strangles.
When the glands thus become iiidiiraiedr acHne ointmeDi of
liydriodate of potash should be rubbed in every day.
TVra/wim/. — The objecl to be kept in view is to bring tlieab*
Bcess lo Kiippiiralion as quickly as possible, and to moderate lln'
fever at the same lime.
UnlcM the syniptoiiut of fever arc tnrticularly s<-vctv, and in*
flannnution of ilw wiiidpipR and lli« luiin ure thi-t-atened, it is
txrlter lo avoid hloodli-liiiig; but if emp)o>-edr it .ihouid l>e with
modi- rut tun. Tin- bowvia should he modemiely relaxed, for
which j>ur[K)Mr two or three drachms of aloes may l>e f^tven in a
ImII, but rarely, if ever, repeated. Two drachms of nitre and
one of tartarized antimony may be given (vrice a day, in a mash.
We should avoid drencliing as much as passible, in consequence
of (be soreness of the throat. A slimnUiing liniment sliould be
nibbed on the swelling, and a wann linstx-d meal poultice applied,
and changed twice a ilay.
If (hia caiiiitit lie conveniently done, the hair should be cut oiT
and the part blistered. When matter can be readily lelt, a large
opening sliould Ixi made with a lancet, and the matter preiaed
out. Adcr thisa poultice may be applied for one nighu Some-
times tlH-re are several smaller abecefsee, whidi, however, must
be treated in the same maimer.
The. diet shoidd consist of bran maslics, green food, and car>
rotSi with a Htllc liavi nnd thin grud mtiy be given to drink.
If the colt is mticl) reduced, a little tonic medicine may be af-
terwards given, but thin i» rarely ncce»«ary.
In our treatment of strangle!), it is neceisaiy lo be on our
guard, as other diiwuvi-s may su^tervene, pariiculnrlj' inflammii'
tiona of the windpipe and the chest. It is desirable, therefore,
uidess the case be slight, to rub a blistering liniment in the
course of the windpipe.
The symptoms of »ln»igle* sometimes occur even in very old
liontes; and wlien the i>ai-fjiid gland* arc alone attacked, the
disease used lo be called tlie vivfn, or iors, and is sonietin>«
very troublesome, but should be treated as vre liave rtvommettdcd
for strangles.
If ihc swelling continues hard, some ointment of hydriodate at
potash may be rubbed in daily.
'l*he consequences of strangli's are sometimes very severe, and
even (iitat. lit «oine caMit large ubacesses liave been (bund to
art»c in difl'en-nt pnriK of the body, sometini<-s on the surface^ at
others internally, and so oc4-astoning deiiih. Thi-»c cases are
suppoaed to arise from the absoq)lion of pus, and are tiiore likely
lo occur wlien ibe sub-maxillary at>K.i'B!i has been impiTfrctiy
developed.
CHRONIC DIBEABEB OF THE Altt-PASSAOEB. 131
In some cases of disease somewhat similar to strangles,
Mr. Carlisle found the Eustachian cavities full of nus, and he
bad recouTBe to an operation, by which he evacuated them with
success; and be relates the cases in tike Veterinarian for Sep-
tember, 1841.— Ed.]
CHAP. XXVIII.
CHRONIC DISEASES OF THE Altl-PABSAOES.
Chronic Cough.
[We have spoken of cough as a symptom of catarrh, or rather
of inflammation of the larynx ; and although we have now to
consider it under a distinct designation, it is yet in all cases a
symptom of diseased action, radier than a disease itself.
Tnere are various descriptions of cough, such as hard, soft,
dry, short, strong, weak, and convulsive cough. These nume-
rous distinctions will, however, answer no useful purpose. It
will be sufficient for us to distinguish the aliort dry cougk of
broken wind, which is familiar to dl practised ears ; the dry, or
cough leithout disdiarge ; and the coi^h attended by an increased
tecretian ofmuau.
Cough, indeed, denotes the presence of some irritation, and is in
&ct the noise made by the forcible endeavour to expel this cause
of irritation ; for instance, in catarrh there may be a great
increase in the secretion of mucus, so much so that if not
removed it will threaten suffocation. The entrance to the wind-
pipe is lined by a membrane endowed by means of nerves with
the most delicate aensibtlity. The presence of mucus on this
part produces irritation. The sensation is instantaneously sent
to the brain, and thence, by means of the nerves of motion, an
impression is conveyed to the diaphragm and abdominal muscles,
by which these parts are thrown into violent action ; air is rapidly
expelled Irom tne lungs through the windpipe, carrying with it
most probably the offending object ; and thus a cough is produced.
The same effect is occasioned when any foreign body enters or
endeavours to enter the larynx, and likewise from simple irri-
tation of the part without any increased secretion of mucus, as
well as from too great dryness of the jpart, and probably also from
sympathy with another part. Cough is, indeed, but an effort of
nature to ward off mischief, and in endeavouring to cure it we
should strive to remove the cause by which it is produced. Too
much regard should not be paid to the sort of cough that may
be present ; for we may have in catarrh, and even in the same
K 2
DISEASES or THE HOUE.
case, various coiigliit, according lo the slafre of tite dioeasc, and
the Kvertty of ilie symptoms. Many protcsa lo distinguish hx
ibe sound of tJie cough M'ht-iher it is chronic or otherwise ; such
pnftfleion, however, is attogethor wiihoul foundation. Vi'e nujr
indeed easily lell the cough of broken niiid ; hut we cannot m-
linpiinh that of catanli, or sore throaty from a chronic cotiglw
By chronic cough, then, we undcrsUind n cough either trifling or
MTcrr, tlmt hui exiKted for a long time without bring attended
by any active inflammstory (ip[H-nnince«. Sucli a cough may
eitliorhoKotxceittiveas toU^ excnnltngly annoying to theotroor,
or so thghi ai >c«rceljr to engage attention.
Sometimes a day or two may elapse without its being lieai
at other titnoii the paroxj-sins may be fi-equeni and severe. Some
horses cough in the stable) and never out of it : others are only
heard in iheir work and never in the stable. Generally speaking,
however, a horse with a chronic cough is heard chiefly during
ihc first mile of his working, and more when ridden than tn
hnrnoK*. In many cases the disoa^e c»n be inccd Kick lo an
attack of sore throat, which most prolmbiy bus bi^en proiraci«d,
and has left behind some alteration »f xtruciure, either a tliidt-
ening or an irritated state of the membrane lining the laiyo
Horses with chronic cough are generally (not always) subject
fivquent attacks of sore tliroat, each attack probaUy making th»
cough worse.
It is considerol that the nffi-ction is sometimes prwUiccd by
the presence of worms in the stomach or inlesliiieiti ur by a di»-
ortlnvd state of the digestive organs.
Trni/mrn/. — We may often materiaDy bem^l a chronic
Although we can rarely achieve a [HTfeet cure; and a$ in
awes we cannot Ik- sure llial the ciwe hii* become chronic, it «
tlHTelbrc desirahlu to attempt relief whenever the animal is
valuable.
It will be proper to lake a few quarts of blood to relieve the
local inftammittion: to administer (if the horse can be spnred) ■
mild laxittive, »o ns to get the digcKiive organs into n hc«lthy
state; to slinnilale ihe throat exiernally by means of a mitil
■ liquid blister fretjuently repented, and to ndmimster the following
I ball several nighu SHCceasively : —
nly"
m
ui
i
y adii^ N
icoughS
n manrH
Camphor 1 dr.
Tartariztsl antimony I dr.
Digitalis ^ dr.
Powdered squill 1 dr.
'i'o be made into a IhiII with treacle.
The diet during this lime should princlpnily consist of mashes
and Kueciileut food, and the hny and com ftliodid Ite free frao
dust. Olid weltwl Iiefcirt- giviij. — Ko.J
CHKONIC DItlEABEli Of TH£ AIR-PASSAGES. 133
Broken Wind.
HHorses vith broken wind are usually called pipert by horse
dealers.
The symptoms of a badly broken-winded horse are readily
perceptible; the peculiar catching of the flanks is seen by the
common observer. There is in fact a double expiration to a
single inspiration ; the horse readily draws in liis brtath, but has
a difficulty in forcing it out, and the abdominal muscles are called
on to assist the operation in a much greater degree than in a
state of health.
The respiration is also quicker than natural, and there is ge-
nerally a peculiar short cough. This cough in mild cases may
be slight, but in bad cases it is extremely distressing, continuing
perh^ts almost incessantly for half an hour together.
The symptoms may rapidly get worse, until a horse is un-
fitted for any thing but slow work ; or they may continue in the
same state for years, during which the animal is capable of doing
a good deal of work.
It is very common for the symptoms in draught horses to ap-
pear suddenly, particularly if the animal is worked severely on a
full stomach.
We find this affection more frequently in cart horses than in
any othen.
On the dissection of broken-winded liorses, we notice the
lungs to be considerably larger than in a healthy state, and much
whiter on the surface. On cutting into them, we 6nd that their
increased volume is owing to air extravasated under the mem-
brane which covers them. The air cells are supposed to have
been ruptured, so as to have admitted the escape of the inspired
air, which is thus easily drawn into the lungs, but has much
greater difficulty in escaping.
The membrane lining the bronchial passages is also generally
Ibund in an unnatural state, being much thicker than in a state
of health, and this circumstance is considered to account for the
cough that attends the disease.
The symptoms of broken wind have l>een suddenly manifested
by some horses, and on dying soon afterwards, it has appeared
that the' diaphragm has been ruptured. Any thing, therefore,
that will materially embarrass the action of this muscle is likely
to occasion these symptoms.
Broken-winded horses rarely carry much flesh, which is owing
to the disordered state of the stomach and bowels ; a greater
quantity of wind is formed in the bowels than common, which is
frequMitly expelled from the anua. There is no way of account-
K 3
m
niSEAsKB or THE horse.
ing fur this disordered *tatc of the digestive orgatis, except from
llip Hympatli;.
TliK iiittnediate eaiue of broken wind is obviously the circum-
Btance of sudden exertion on a full atonmch. In proponion In
the indifjcsiible nalure uf food is the dtaease likely to occur.
Thus, fusty and damaged hay is a very frequent cause ; and lHu
hay being frequently given to agrietiltural horses, accounts in
crent men«ure for the disean- being more frequent with then
than with any others. Nimrod, the celebrated »i>oniiig wnier,
say* the di»e«»c is extremely rare in France, «herc he now
reside*; and this he attributes to the fact of wvel sirnw tx-iiig
gtMierally used instead of hay, particularly amongst lurm<
horsey.
Tmifmmt, — Although a perfect cure for lliw di«easr mnnol
be attained, yet we can do very much lowanls nlirviniing ir, and
rendering the iiniuvd useful. Nothing, iiidei-d, i.i more i-onimon
than for broken.winded lioi-sn-s to get cun»id(-rabiy heiu-r after
being worked for some lime in a coach. Thi* improvement is
owing to the alteration in their diet: instead of hay forming the
principal part of the food, it is given only in small quantities, but
m its place plenty of sweet com is allowed. Tliis then, is the
plan to he adopted ; viz. to give the greatest quantity of nourisli-
nient in the smallest hulk, by which two objects are aceonipliiihi'd:
the condition and strength of the animal arc improved, and he in
capable of making greater exertion with the same amount of
breathing as before; and, in the second place, (he stomach never
being so distended as before, no longer presses so mueh against
the dinphriijtn), and respiration is thus rendered less difficult.
Little or no Imy shotiM therefore be allowed, except in the form
of chaR': but in the winter carrots may he given, and in t)ic sum-
mer vetches; but holh in moderate quantities.
The digeJiive organ* should be kept in as healthy a state as
postible, and cure should be taken lliai the horse is fed some
liours before he is worked.— Kn.]
I have several times so far sueceeiled ns to cure the disease fur
a time; and in one case, a horse of my own, the disi«.<)i- was so
completely reinove<J, tliat I kept the animal in constant work for
more than a year afterwards.
This horse was as hadly broken winded as a horse could be>
He was kept on bran and oats and a moderate quantity of good
hay. In (he s]>ring lie had some velches and grass in ilw stable,
which was c\>ol. and well ventilated. lie was ridden at first very
moderately ; but after two or three months he was ridden aia full
trot, and somclimes galloped without inconvenience. I hare
seen another case of complete broken wind apparently cured by
turning the animal, in dry summer weather, into a field where
there was no water. This mare had been purchased as a subject
CHKONIC UISKA9E6 Ul' THE AIK-FASSAUCS. 195
for some rxpcrimeiiU rdaitrc to glanders, being so bad as (o
be tlmuKht fit for iiollitng e\se. After the experiments were
itnistutl I thought it right to kill Ikt, when I found the lungs,
kihI all t)>c parts coniiecKrd with them, perfectly sounil, and at
the time »!»(.• wa» killed not n nymplom of broken wind could bo
discovered. I haiv seen othi-r hroki'n-wiii(k'<) horses tremed in
a similar manner, nrid with tbir Mtme rc«ult ; and I have eciii
brokeu-wiiide<i home* apparently cured bv being kept at gross
A diort time, but gel at bad lu ever n liiue time after they had
been taken biLck into tlie stable.
If the cough be iroubleaome, the ball advised for chronic
eough may be administered occasionally.
■ T-AteA m>til.
[Tliii disease is very diflTcrent from broken wind, ahhougli ihey
arc oftiii confoinidi-^I log<'ther. It is chariicteriseil, not by a
double, but a quickened respiration, it Iwinjj f«'(jiieiitly treble
or mi»dni]>ie its natural »Uiie, It is, indeed, more Kenous than
brolceii win<l, inatnmch iix it has tisually been preceded by an
infLinimatory attack, which may again recur.
'Die lungs of thick-winded horses have their cApacily for air
diminislM.'d — the structure of the lungs is clumged — a piirt be-
comes heavy, indurated— tiie air cells and brnnchial passages
become filled up, so that the lungs no longer ailord the same room
for tlte reception of the aimoripiierii: air. and, in consequence, the
liorse is obUged to breathe double or treble as quick as in a slate
of health.
This disease is usually the effect of aii inftammatioit of the
lungs; but sometimes thick wind comes on without tuiy aoiitc
inflammatory attack. In «uch cnse<< there has usuiilly been
chronic bronchitis which luw probably been mltlaken for a cold,
and has not left the horse until it has sadly altered the structure
of lite lungs.
Tli« symptoms of thick wind are more obscure lliaii those of
broken wind ; as the qiiiekneKs of respiration after exercise is so
much ulfc^ied by the condition of t)ic animal, a horse weak and
out of wn«iilion will often, under severe exertion, breathe quicker
tlian a thick-winded horse in good condition. This fact must be
borne in mind and allowed for, when passing an opinion oa
iIm- cnse.
It is astonishing what great alteration of the structure of tbc
lun;^ may exist, and the horse be still able to perform his aeeus-
lumed work. I remember a horse that for some months woiketl
in • fast coach, doing a sltt^e of twelve rnilc^ daily in about one
hour and a quarter. He wai< Sei/ed with iiiflamnialion of the
lungs, anddied in thecourseof sixteen hours. On examining the
K 4
3
DISEASEil or THE UORM.
body nfwr di-ntli, it appeared that one half the Imigs Tor n long
tmit- pjuit mii»l linve been perfectly useless for \\k [>urpow of
re«pii-ntk)i), l>eiug so complelelj- hepatized as to bv bravier tluo
, water.
Little can be done by way of rctnwly for ihick wind ; but we
may alleviate the sjrmptoms by iiltt-iiiion to ttie general hcallli,
auu by tlie ireatmeDt recomnicmlcd for broken wind. — Ed.}
CUAP. XXIX.
ROAR I NO.
[This ditteaAe receives its denomination from tlie nature of tbe
noiite made by tbe horte ofiected nlieii hie i-esni ration is quick-
ened by exercise. It arises in &ct from a diminution of llic
calibre of the windpipe, or ihc larynx, or Eomc portion of the
air fKUagcK Therr arc various names used in liorec phrase-
ology to I'sprcsii lliiis <Iis(-iue. or rallior different d<-f;rw)i of it, Stich
as ^"""'■'''t wlii"lifr, wlici-WT, higbblowcr, iruiiiiKHiT, &c. 'the
tint denotes Uit? iwim- made by a roarer when xtiddenly fright-
ened. All roarer* do nut nmke tliis noise, but wlien it is proent
the roarinj; is generally severe and confumetl.
A lehiitier is a very bud roarer, inasmucli as tlie shrill noise of
witistlin)! is a %\^n of there beinj^ a smaller passage tlian wbcn
the |;(raver sound uf r(Minn<f U heard. This was pni tu ilie proof
by Mr, IVrcivall, who tit^l a ligaitire round the nindpipe of n
hoi-se moderately tight, and then, trotting the animal, foaixl
that tio roared; but on drawing the ligaiurc tighter, so as to lessen
the calibre of the windpipe one half, a whistling noise was heard.
A wlieaer makes a noise somewhat like its di?»ignAlton, bruig
lest loud than that nf roaring. It arises of course from ob-
structed rt^iratioM, either in the larynx or windpipes or the
bronchial passages ; such obitruction, however, tiol beiugto great
as in roaring.
Wheezing is frequently present in thick wind, and indeed is
generally owing to olt^tructinn in the lungit tlH-mselves.
A Irumpeler is merely a fancied diniinL-tion ; but a highMimtr
it usually no roarer at all, the noise he niakeii being a sort of
snort, arising from the peculiar action of the false nostrils which
many horses possess. 'I'his sound is frequently mistaken for
roaring, but may be readily distinguished by galloping the bones
when it will be found ihat the noise is grraiest at lirsi, lessens at
he proei^edx, and goes olT as the speed increases; an effect prv
cisely cuiiliury to that attending roaring. A case of this kind
lately CHine under my notic', in which the noise made by the
ROARINO. 137
horse somewlint resembled a steam eufii;ine at work, so coiivldfr-
able was iL litis noise commenceil immediatc^l^' tlie horse mm
excited; but after several trials 1 found, by causing tlie hoi'u- tn
gallop wiifaoui exciting him, tio noise was produced. Various
jiartics learned in horse matters pronounced him a roareri but I
gave a contrary opinion; the truili of which was proved by his
carrying; n lieavy weight in capital style through the following
season, the noi»o going off as the pace improved. It is, 1 think,
wry probable that the case of the celebrated Eclipse was one of
this description.
The noiie of roaring, and iu modification*, is produced by
various diieaiied structure* which morbid anatomy lia« brought
to light. Thickening of the mi'mbrune uf the larynx is a
very frequent cause of roaring, and is generally produeed by
eore throat or bronchitis. Sometimes bunds are thrown across
tlie windpipe, which is the effect likewise of inflammation. It is
impossible to ascertain when they exist, or where, otherwise
it would be no difGcutt task (o open the windpipe and divide
them. This was once done with success, but attempted linndreds
of timcv and fiiik-d. Ossification of the cartilages of the larynx
u another cause of roaring, and is produced by previous inHam-
mation. Ulceration of the membrane of the glottis is likewise
another cause of roaring; and It is supposed by Mr. Field that
when this is the ease, the Irritation experienced in breothing
induces the animal to partially shut the glottis, and thus occasion
ifae noUe of roaring. — El).]
I found two cmo-t of vcn,' b;id roaring occasioned by ulceration
within tlw larynx ; in one of them the ulcer was very small, and
close to the chink. One of these horses had been aHected for
Boine time with the mild or chronic glanders, and belonged lo
Mr. Ruasel's glandered team. He was in good condition, and
breathed freely until put into motion. It rendered him, how-
ever, so useleis that he was destroyed. The other horse was
attacked in the stable with violent eooghing, and soon after with
roaring, probably from an oat or sonte of his food getting into
■he larynx. He was turned to grass, and soon became so dis-
tressed, his breathing being heard at a considerable distance,
that it was thought right to destroy him. llie only morbid
appearance, found upon a careful examination, wok a Kuudl ulcer
on one side of the chink of the glottis.
[R(xu-ing is frequent with carriage horses, in whom it is gene-
rally profhiced by light reining, so as to make the neck more
arclu-<l ; by this unnatural position the wimlpipe is distorted so as
to cause un impediment lo respiriiiion, and thus produce roaring.
In some can-*, alihougli they nre not nunierou*, the cause of roar-
ing luis iipjHfintI to lie in the lungs; but when this is the case
thick wind is also pn-Hcnt.
ise
DISEASES CF THE HOHSE.
Fig. 1< niimcnis ilic lioalUijr larfni
•nd inubco.
n thv thjrruld caidligcti
ft tlM uyUnaid.
«e tbocrieoM.
< Ilia Iiarha* or trlnd^po.
•Fig. S. rciinatnu • tiirvtiutv of A*
■iiidpipo [iroilucing roaring, cauxd
lif light ixioin^
Mr. James Turner has found that roaring has been produc
by ttnlariteineiit of ihe turbinated bones of the noslrik, but we
ima^jine it is not a frenuent cause.
It )ia£ b(-en fuiitid uUo tliiit rourmji; has bet-ii produced bv *
dtftOflMKl utTi-ction of the rcciirrcnt ntfrvog; and wc not unfrc-
quenlly find, on dissecting tlie windi>ti)« of roarers, tlint ll»e
inuKl«fl Out assist in opening the glottis prevent \hc. appearand
repi-esenied in one of the plai('!<, the niuidn on one aide being
|>o«*erle»s, nnd nlmost alworbed. It is, Wtrever, a matter a(
dispute whether in these caset litis appearance of ttie inu»cle«
is a cause or a consequence of roaring. Some contend tliut the
roaring arises from an aflecliou of the nervet, before alluded txt,
by which the muscles are thrown out of action) and theretbre
become al^orbed. To this opinion 1 am disposed to incline.
Such are the various diseases which prodtice roai'in;; in the
liorse; and to them may be added tumours pre^in^on the wind*
pipe, polypi in the nostrils, and indeed any thing either tempo-
rary or not that becomes an impcdiuicnt to respiration.
HOAItlNO.
139
wu
7-
I
N, _ . _-
Tli>-ir ri)[ur» Bte ukcn rnnn ttirc«
taw al touting, Tlic up|>ri aod
ritnioriurlof thahr^iit Uiitioiiii
OKk.
In tf.3. lUe roaring i* protliiccd by
soatiaellHi of Ibc vinilpipiv which
w*y bt wn bj «i>inp«Tta| It with
Iha othm-. thii i* not a frtquvnt
eauK of raarinc-
a ihc rrirai^ Fit(iUg«.
& tlw ui1cnoi<L
c Iha ef-iKlollin.
4I 111* «tiiil)iip<<.
V\g. 4. A MM of tnirinic frDm influn-
DMlion *D(t ulfpralion of tlir (ilallii
Mul epigloKu. Tliu c«K it not
unft«i]B*nt. tliouKh It ttliloni ciJiti
IB «Wih ■ fonHiiLililu vilviit : it |ini-
M«di iTom rrpeaWd torn Itiroat*,
onil it guntnllj uiendod *iih a
tough.
Fig. S. tliot™ a c«e of tantiag ftoni
sWifplion and want of iiuwit In lliu
mUHl« wliicli (iiivn Uic kIuIIi* uu
one iliii; (liiTw Ih* left), m that then
b ail uhnlnirlion to tlie paioagc of
Ihv nit. Initanrn of Ihii dcwrip.
tjon »Tv nol unfrvqiicnt ; they arc
uaualljr nol yrif ac»er*. aud often
manifoitcd nnly whra the liaru
makca f^r«at vimion ; thvrv ia ni>
viiiij<!i.
]l i» now iuppo«cd tUat the aitcnu-
nlion of the muiwlct li an cflvcl and
nial a eauae, bfiiiK Ihrowii out of u*a
ttom an aBution of the norm
whicb nippl/ the paiu
The iwiial meiliod pui-sned by dealen lo tklcct roaring it to
elrikc tlte twirR- in the flatilc with a slick, or pnt^'iul to do «o ;
whi'ii, if 11 roart-r, lie )^iierally miikes a i^ruiiting iioiRC. 'Vim
iix^hoi], howrever, will vi-rv fi«quently fail, ami Koniriimvs a
hone will ^ui)t wiveu he is not a roarer : the better pUn is to
ride tlie horse, if fit for the Miildlo, or if » drnug)it hor»r put
liiin in harness. On ^^Hopinp; ilie horse, so a% to accelerate the
respiration considerably, he will nol fail, if a i-oarer, to exhibit its
»yniptoms. Some horses will roiir in the irot, some not till ihcy
canter, and others only when ihey gallop, depi-nding of courso
Diseases op the horsC.
on tiie decree of impediment rxUlinj;, and on itio cxIisoitiaB
of the animal.
In t)>c trttUmenl of tl)i- tnajurity of caxn we cuii render no
service whatcrt-r. It \* only \\\\vn ihvix' i* sore iliront or actwJ
inflamniution exiitin^r, ttiai wv ciin bestow bent^t by extern&t
countrr-irritatioti, iiml other trentni«nt befni-e advised.
It U iin object of much importance to bring iJie horse to the
liigheM possible condition, so tliai bis wind shall be in a good
state, as lie will then be much less likely to roar than if out of
condition. For the same reason the rules recommended for
broken wind should also be oh»ervcd in roaring: for ahhouvh
the wind is not usually impaired, yet the noise will be great m
proportion to the demand made on the lungs. Thus wc often
lind that a ihoroiigh-brcd horM.- will roar in raeinjj, but not in
hunting! a hunter will do so in huntin-^, but not in liamen;
K harnt^M liumo may roar in fast work, and not in slow ; and y«t
nil tlxHe liones mny linve tlie defect in the same degree, tlie
liifTiTenoe arising iVom their different capaeities.
Uouring is decidedlv hereditary, at least the disposition to
become to is, for the oflsprins; of roarers have in a gn-at nuniber
of inelances become roarers tnemsekes.
When tile roaring is so se^'erc as to r«nder the horse quite
useless the operation of tracheotomy is to l>e recommended, a
tube made for the purpose being kq)i in t)>c opening made in
the windpijie, out of wliicli the horse will brnithe. Ily taking
gn-iit care that the tube remuitis in its place, the animal may be
able to do moderate work. — En.]
I once saved a horse's life that appeared to have an oat or
some of hit food in the larynx, by the operation named bron-
chvtomy. I found ihe lionte in the most distressing sitoation.
He was scarcely able to breathe, and \i\* hrcathinz wm >o loud
as to t)e heard at a distance of many yartln ; and there was a
discharge of bloody mucus from the nostril. Attenipi* had been
made to wash down what appeared to be slicking in his throat,
and to force it down wiih a prohang. I made aji opening in the
front of the windpipe about 6 incliea Iwlow tlie throat, and llien
thrust a probang upwards through the larynx, and immediatelv
withdrew It again. The horse was relieved, and got quite well-
He woi'ked as a post-horse for scvei'al yearsal\er, and was named
by the post-hoys Ciil-throat.
[If tlw? roaring ts recent, and produced by tight reining, we may
eJTvci considerable benelit by leaving off the bearing rem, nnd
elevating the head and muzilc for some hours daily in the stable,
in a contrary position to that produced by light reining. — Eo.]
DISEASES OF THE DIAPHRAOM AND THE HEART. 141
CHAP. XXX.
DISEASES or THE DIAFHRAOM AND THE HEART.
[The diaphragm or muscle which separates the chest from the
abdomen is liable to two diseases, spasm and rupture.
Spasm of the diaphragm, of which there are several cases on
record, is denoted hy a Toud thumping, sometimee perceptible
Bereral yards off, and felt at various parts of the body, but parti-
cularly at the region of the diaphragm ; the heart, at the same
time, being, though quick, yet very weak in its action, and the
pulse at the jaws almost imperceptible. The respiration is usually
quick and laborious, and ia sometimes attended by shivering.
The cause of these symptoms is over-exertion, particularly
on a full stomach.
The treatmmi which is generally successful consists of bleed-
iog, followed by aperient medicine, and opiates.
Rupture of the diaphragm is to be attributed to the same
causes as the forgoing disease, — any thing, indeed, which aud-
deoly demands a powerful respiration; and in several instances
it has been known to occur to oroken-winded horses.
The exertions used in parturition have sometimes ruptured
the diaphragm, and so likewise have the struggles of colic.
This disease, although always attended eventually with a fatal
termination, has yet been known to exhibit for some time the
symptoms of broken wind. In such cases the diaphragm has
been only moderately ruptured, and a portion of the intestine
insinuated through the fissure. — Ed.]
Diseases of the Heart.
[Amongst all the diseases to which the horse is liable, there
are none more obscure in their symptoms, or more fatal in their
terminations, than affections of the heart.
They rarely, however, occur, but as connected with other dis-
eases, the obscurity and danger of which they greatly increase.
Dropsy of the heart, or water in the pericardium, often ac-
companies hydrothorax, and sometimes occurs in inflammation
of the lungs and pleura ; the water being occasionally so great in
quantity as absolutely to choke the action of the heart. We
sometimes find lymph floating in the water, or streaks of lymph
adhering to the pericardium.
This disease often accompanies enlargement of the heart itself,
which sometimes weighs double what it ought to weigh.
Ha
DrSBASU Of TME HORSS.
Ifypertrophi/. — \VUli an increased siic wc may liave citlirr
a dilatation or a diminution of the cavitirs of (lie heart.
The lieart is sometimes Ibund not only gn-atly incrctuvd in
size, but quite altered in its appearance, presenting an irregular
Tungoufi inas«. In a ease ol* this sort tttai I met vriili a few ypars
since, the birnting of the heart was particularly lottd, hollow, and
tliuinpliig, though not greatly tncrcftM-tl in number. The seat
of disease was iwintcd ant by the apparently laborious actwa of
the hearL
" Mr. Pritchard, who luu communicated several interesting
cases of disease of the heart, observes, in the 6th vol, of ilw
I'eteriMnr'uw, on (he subjett of hvpertrophv, or cnlargeateni of
the heart: — "It lia* always struck me forcibly that over-exertion
is tile principal exciting ciiiiBi- of hypertrophy, and of dilnUilion ;
and I may add, the possibility that the original structure of the
heart may, in some subjects, be tinvtiual in power to tlie olEoe
it is d«.-signed to perform.
'* This opinion is strongly tupported. Horses, particularly
those empluved in quick draught, arc commonly called on to
perform arduous tasks with full s^tomachs, by which tJic free
action of the lungs is considerably impeded; thus, obstruction
being given lo ihc circulation through the pulmonary' vessels,
eorre»poniiing increase of force in the action of llic Itcsrt u Ow
const'ijuenct-.
" The first inconvenience felt by the animal durinff exertion is
in tlie respiratory organs, and this more i-»|)eciiilly wnen the »i»-
mjich \n distended, as tlien iho cavity of the chest i* dimini*lK'd :
tlic lungs are not inflated with ease to the extent rwiuirt<l for
the blood to flow uninlcnuptedly through iheui,
" Hypertrophy of the right tide of the heari is liable 10 be con-
founded with pneumonia, as tlie lunga are readily oiTecied in lliit
case ; but there is ihisobvious difference, — the breathing, althougli
qaickcnod and laborious, is less frequent than in pneumonia;
the piilxe, notwithtinnding it is quick and intermittent, is not *n
much opprc'^Ked ; the sub-maxiliary artery is more dilated, lite
flow of blood through (he jugular is more current; the ni«m>
branes of the eye anil nostnln an.- less injected ; tlic surface of llie
body and extremities ia of a moderate warmth, aiKl these lut
symptoms are present when the respiration is exceedingly
diflicuU and laborious. Copious bleeding does not cause inut
clwihge in the character of the pulse, nor afford comparative
relief to the rvspirstion."
There arc one or two cases on record of ossification of the
substance of the heart. OMificaiion of the vulve« is still more
fivfiuent, though by no means so common as in the huRuin
DISEASES or THE STOMACH AMD BOWELS. 143
Carditis, or iDflammation oF the hearl, is exceedingly rare in
the horse, and is always connected with other disease.
The heart, in a few instances, has been ruptured ; in one case
from severe exertion, and in another from previous ulceration.
ADeurism of the aorta and other arteries has been discovered
in the borse, but is by no means so frequent as in the human
subject.
Little can be stated by the way of treatment for the foregoing
diseases. They have K^nerally existed some time previous to
tlie requisition for medical assistance, and there is generally an
inability for bearing extensive bloodletting. The treatment,
however, must be altogether adapted to the symptoms that may
present themselves, and r^ulated by the principles before men-
tioned.— Ed.]
CHAP. XXXI.
DISEASES OF THE STOUACH AND BOWELS.
Inflammation of the Stomach, Gastritis.
AcDTE inflammatiou seldom takes place in the stomach but from
swallowing poisons, or some powerful stimulant, at a time when
this important organ is already in a morbid or irritable state-
Mr. James Clarke relates a case where a horse was destroyed by
inflammation of the stomach, in consequence of being drenched
with a pint of vinegar; and another in which the same fatal*
effect was produced by a drench which contained half an ounce
of spirit of hartshorn. It is probable that neither of these
drenches would Iiave had any injurious effect had the stomach
been in a healthy state. I have known a horse quickly destroyed
by being drenched with a quart of beer in which one or two
ounces of tobacco had been infused, and have seen other horses
take much larger doses without any ill effect. I have also known
a drench which contained two ounces of ether destroy a horse by
inflaming his stomach ; and in one instance four ounces of oil of
turpentine produced a similar effect, but this horse was under
tbe effect of a moderate purgative at the time the turpentine was
S'ven. Whenever a medicine produces an injurious effect upon
e stomach, I think it is generally indicated by the shivenng,
•baking, or trembling which immediately follows. I have seen
a strong infusion of tobacco produce this effect; also a solution
of arsenic. I gave several doses of arsenical solution to a glan-
dered horse, and it was. Invariably followed by shivering; it
was a large dose, from two to four ounces of Fowler's solution.
DtSEASBR OF THE nOBsr.
Tlic shivering went oflT in Bbout an )»our. At first I gsve the
liorse a litilo warm beer, n-iih some ginj^r in it, lo stop the
fihivpring, but Rflcrwarcls I suifpred it lo go offof iuown aceoni.
It IB worthy of remark, that altltotigh this horse did not apjKvr
to be injurcii hy the arsenic, bul continued in good eonditiou,
and in good spirit*, yot «om<; lime nflcr, when it was neeeMlH
to df«truy hill), upon cMimining the body after death ihestomMP
a|)pcan-d in a morbid Kiaie, an<l the trpleen contiderably enlarved
From tlie»e and many other ciromn.'itaiHX'H of a timifar kino, il
iip[K-ar* thai aliliough acute inllani million does not of\en take
place in the sloinach. yet a ihronic kind of inflanimalion, or
«ome other morbid state, is bv no means an iiiirr^i|iient oc-
ciirren<%. I am inclined to thinlc that holts disonter t))c slomacli
in this way more freouently than is generally siupecitx). The
symptoms of acute innammation of the stomach are, a vf ry quick
and weak ptilsc, great depression of spirits, quick breathing, nod
coldness of tliv ears an<) legs. I have seen all these aymptotiu
brought on by giving four ounces of nitre at oik- dose. I Imvc
seen It produced alxo by Urge dotoa of subliinnk-, arsenic, and
1)1 no vitriol.
[Acute inflammation of the stomach, i%, u the author obaervn.
extremely rare, unless produced by poison ; bul in a wvll-marked
fatal case that occurred to the editor a few years sinci*, the symgv
loms presented were, an exceedingly dull and stupiRed appear-
ance— eyes siidueed with tears — eyelids swollen, and nearly
closed — mouth hot — farces hard, and coated with tnucus — a,b-
dometi enlarged — pulse 65, and oppressed. The mare luul been
. ill several days hetorc I saw her. On the second day the doll
and heavy appearance was entirely gone, bul the pulse 66.
The third day the mare appeared in the same dull state as on
the 6m day, the iHilsc 60. On l\w fourth day »be appeared
worse, the pulse il4 ; but the heavy appearance of the head )»d
again diKnppeared. The mare died during the night; and oil
examining ber the stomach was found excessively inflajned, and
a thick deposit of coagiilaied blood between its coats, aiTectiog
more particularly the ciilicular portioD. The bowels were in-
flamed in a minor decree, as well as the lungs and liver. TIk
mare had been taken from grass and fed with dry and stimulttiii),'
food, without any phytic or other p repaint ion.
Tlie trrahnrnt in such ca»e«, whi-n- we have i-enion to believe
that the stomach is the xeal of active inflnmuialion, »hniild con*
sist in extentive bloodletting; relaxing the bowels bv tnedtcine
least likely to iniure the coats of the stomach, such as linneed wl,
■asiated by the Irequent administration of injections, and blister-
ing the side oppofiite the fitomnch. An infusion of linseed should
lie given voluntarily, if the liorse will take it; if not, by occa*
stonally drenching him.
DUBASC8 or THE STOMACH AND BaWCU. 143
Tlie moat frequent caune of inflamnmlion of the stomndi is
lite ad ni mist ratio II of jwbon, ciilirr wilfully or by mistake ; but
as the effecli of |>oi!toit am dificrc-iil, not alwayit acting by tiiflam-
inff the stomach, wc »l)nll bcHt do jutlicv to the aubjLX^t by cnn-
siucrin^ it under tlie limd of Poi«on», ill tliat part of tlie work
devoted to the Maieriii Medicn.
Caneer of the Stomach is n dtseMte of cxtwmely rare occtirrencc
in the horse. I have, however, met with one or two cwea, tlie
chicfsympiomof which, in oiie instance, wai an emaciated appear-
ance which resisted all medical treatment, as well as th«: richest
food. The animal was >n con»e()uence, deBtroyc<l; and the
coals of the stomach were found considerably tliickeni-d, aiid in a
schirroiH and cancerous sute. — Ed.j
IjOU of Appetite.
Want of appetite b more frequently complained of in horacs
than an excessive or ctavint; iii>|H'liic; this, indeed, so far from
bving comntaincd ol", U jfi-neniliy coiwidercd a desirable (jnalifi-
calton in tlio animal ; but, as I have before observed, more dia.
Tfl£e« arisv from this caioe than from want of appotite. A
distinction, Iwwever, mii« be made, between im excessive or
Toracioiu appetite, and a hcAity and healthy appetite. The hit-
ler is denoted by the horM.- being ready for, or desirous of food,
as soon as he conies in from a journey, and eatins his alluwaivce
witli an evident relish. The former, by an almosl constant
craving ior food and waier, without any regard to the quality of
cither. lu weakness of appetite, a horse is rattu>r indillerent
ftboiil food when be comes in from a journey, and will only eat
such as ia of f;oud quality. He feeds slowly, and languidly,
ewocially if he has been ridden at all hard. In this case, he
oncn reiuae* his food for some time; and if any cold water is
given him is atuicked with shivering, and sometimes with
looseness and colic. Delicacy, or wenkncss of appetite, ia often
constitutional, imd the elTecl of being kept hard when a colt, or
of being kept in cold wet situations; it may be also hereditary.
Sometimes it is brought on by too early and immoderate work,
and inattention in reganl to fct^ding. In all (hose cases, the
liorse's work, eA]H-ciuliy with n-Rard to the pace he is riilden at,
the quality of his food, the u-mperaturc of his water, and all those
attentions which constitute good grooming, must be constantly
observed. WIten such a horse happens to be worked harder
than usual, the extra labour must be compensated for by extra
attention: his water should have titc chill taken off; luid if a
handful of fine wheat floor were stirred into it, it would be still
bi-tliT, especially if the bowels are rather loose. A cordial ball
may bo useful on stich occauons, or a moderate dose of warm ale.
L
T46
ItlSEASCi OF TOT. HORSE.
Yoanff horse*, Iwwever, seldoni derive that heiwlit fmin cordlds
nnd ule llmt older boraes do, ami particularly thoxc which an
neciutoiiKHl to audi treaiineiii. 'I'lic mott elTcctUfll, iind the most
innocent restoralitv, is rest; for which, in Mimnn'r, n f)fl<l i»^M
best situation : but if, during the time of r»t, tliv IwrM- he iH
ia a stable, his diet must be carefully aliendetl (o. Thit should
be rather opening, and such as the horse apjieani to reliiit:
vetches, or other grecii food, arc perhaps the best. Oood SMeet
bran is an excellent ihing lo keep the bowels cool and open,
and may ite rendered nutritious in almost any degree by the
addition of good fre<li bruise*! ottts, or mall. A small quantity af
good sweet and clciui oah^, thrown into the manger now and dies,
will often induce n horse to Htxl, wlten there is want of appetite;
and a very fimall <{uaiitity of (he Hwcctoiil hay, given occasionally,
is j^nerolly tsklen uiih great relish.
Young hor*cs often fall off in iht-ir apiK-tite* during (he time
of culling teeth. At this period chere h often a Korenoc« of the
mouth, in which the mucous membrane of the ntomach and
boweU secmii to j>ai'ticipHle. In such cases the wiuit ofappcliir
U generally attributed Id the lampns, or a s<velling or fuhina iu
the roof of the mouth, adjoining the front teeth; because ibc
honte is sometimes observed to mangle his hay. as it ia termed,
that is, he pulls it out of the rack, and after chewing it a hide
while throws it out again. The common remedy, if such it may
be called, is the application of a n-d>hot iron to the part, aiw
burniitg out tl>e prominent part, or lamuaB ; but this is never
necessary. Alt young horses Itavc that fulne^ in the roof of the
monlh which is named lampas, and it never interferes with
their npixrtite, or the chewing or gullieriug of their food. There
may, however, be &ome (legrL-e of tenderness about the gums SI
the lime of teething, when soA Ibod, such as brnn mashes, should
be given for a few lUy*; mid as the stomach anil bowels am
sometime*! afTeettKl alsii, a little nitre may be (pwn in the mashes,
•nd an emollient clyster tlimwn up. When there is costivcnca,
or slimy dtuig, a laxative drench may be given also, compoMd
of 4 03t. Rjuom salt; 2 drechms of carbotuiie of soda; 1 pint of
warm water : ami 4 oz. of castor oil.
If the mouth appears very tender, or sore, it may be washed
or syrin^d with a luiiuti, composed of alum, honey, und water.
Keeping a horse on new oats, or new hay, is often loUowed by
•ome derang^-meni of the stomach and bowels, indicated 1^
looseness and want of appetite; and sometimes by excessive
sbding abo. with considerable thirst, and a staring coac A
elHUtge of diet is, in such cases, tlie most essenlial thutg ; but i(
is often necessary, also, to give some tonic medicine, or a warm
laxative, such as three or four dmchnis of aloes, three drachms of
•wp, juid a drachm or two of ginger, with a few drops of oil of
uiseASEs or the «tomjicii and bowels. 147
caraway. Horu« wHiietitnes fnll off in apjxMite merely from
loading Utcir bowdK, ur froin »tayiitg idle in tliit »lubl<; loo loiig.
la this cut<^ (iti obMlvmiouK difl, itrindpatly of l(i'»ii ma»1ie«, or
graMi and tt cJysU-r, arc iKCCMary ; «j)d if that lail) a mild dose
of piiyeic tliould he givtii.
VoradoK* and Dtpravttt Aj^ttlite.
Tljpie arc different decrees of tho eamc morbid condition,
and ilie origin of many ducosvs. Tlie distinction {lointLxl out in
the forcfToinj^ urticb', bt-lvrivn a strong hcniHby apiiclitc and an
inordin^b! or cniritijr «p[x:(ite, mutt b« ntill kej>t in view. 1
bavi' tbere itiatvd, tliat a stronj; licaltliy a(>j>i;iitc ia donotiKl by a
boDc b<.'iii|4 always r<«dy ibr bis food as toon ai be conitfs in
froni bi> work, even if it he raibi-r liarder than uiual. l)ul tbere
are otbtT circiimttaitcea connccifd wlib »ucli an appetite, wliidi
Duut now be considered. A good t'cecler, as &ucii hones are
termed, does \\a work well, and with spirit. He a seldom
craving for water, if properly supplied with corn; he eats only
moderately of hay; he carries a good carcass, as it is termed,
and is not drawn up towards the flanks, or let down in the belty
like a cow; bis dung is solid, siid not slimy, soft, and stinking;
be does not break wind much, or stale very largely, an<l his
urine is not foul and stinking. But a horie witii a voracious
and depraved appetite has, frequently, all these defects: lie
doee his uork languidly, and unwillingly ; and is eager for water
whenever be sees a pond, however filthy it may be.
This disease, for such it really is, is not always curable ; yd the
state of tl>c stomach, and coiUH-r|Ucnt)y of the whole body, may
always be greatly improved, and the hone's lite and sei'vice* con-
siderably prolongtxl. Tlierc ta niorc difKculty in accomplishing
tliis when the diacaM is of long standing, or acquired by bard keep
wlien a colt, or derived from (he sire or dam. Bran is tin excellent
diet for such liorites, witli .*! mo<I<-rate tiunntity of ffoiitl liny. A
small <)iiHntity of outs niiiy U' given now and then, according to
iW tu>r.ie'« work. Whvn only a small tguantily of oaU is thitiwii
inU» tlic manger, tln-y are eaten wJili grfat^-r relish, and are more
perfectly digested. A tniUl dow^ of physic is often useful, and
afterwords a few ionic balls. In *uinincr, i\ run nt grass will do
good; but the boim- inu*i not be tunuHl at first into gooil pii»-
ture, where lie would bo able to fill bis stomach quickly ; short
•W«M gnu* should be clioten. ^Vhen u considerable reduction
ia audiMnly made in a hoi'Ai:'^ diet, he may feel at (list dispirited
Olid W4,-ak ; tlwreforv it should lie done gradually.
Professor Coli^niun is of opinion timt a mail-coach horse, wliicb
is allowed (wo |>ecks of corn it day, requires only five pounds of
~ ty. I once was employed to examine some mail>coach boraes,
1. 'i
146
disbasks ov the borse.
and found ilml niiK- horses were consuming nine Iiimdred of liay
a week, witli an allowance of two pecks of corn a day each ; that
b, nearljr sixteen pounds a day for each liorse. In anoUier coach
concern, wtwec horses 1 irxaniincd, (he allowance was eeven
liuiidrcd of hay u week for fight liorset, and the same quantity
ofroni. In thi.i e^tabhvhnK-tit a very usdul rule was uniformly
actoptvd, which WBi', to kt^cp the hoivcx wiihout food two hourt
before they started. This tin- owner* Itad been taught by tlie
loos of three or four horses, in comequeiioe of working tJu-m
witli too much food in their stoniaehs, aiid loo much dung in the
larji^e bowolfl. 1 do not lliink, however, that a horse in regular
mail work, which eala two pecks of oata a day, is capable of rat-
ing sixteen pounds of hay, and that there mu&t have been a great
deal wiuted. I remarked, when four of them were taken out to
put to the coach, tlml there were some oats led in the manger,
perhaps from a quarter lo half a peck; so that it was eriwDt
(hat the allowance both of hay and oats was more (Iian they
could make nsc of: and if wc snppoM- that six pounds of hay per
day might have been laken from each horse, fur the benefit
of hi» ht-alth, it would have f^uv<'d the proprietor three hundred
of hay a week, or nearly eight lon» a year.
A* coach propriecorti purchase horses of all ages, and. conse-
quently, of various habits an<l appetiti.-*, al«o with slomaclis and
boweU of various ea[»aciiies, and greatly divenifxHl «ith regard
to condition, or nervous uud muscular power, they would find
great advantage fi-om altending to a hor»e'.t feeding, until tlicy
are jxTfecily acquainted with the state of his ap]>clitc, and, coi>-
sequently, of his stomach and digestive urgtms generally. Thii
would enable them to keep their horses in tlie be*l condition, u
they would soon discover an inordinate or depraved a[i{H-tite, and
l)e enabled to correct it. Thia, however, is scarcely ever done.
'Ilie general opinion anioiig persona concerned with horMs is,
(liat they eannot eat loo much. Bad feedei's, or horse* with
weak appetites, are sure to be found out, lieeause ll>ey soon be-
come unable to perform the work ilwt is expected of them ; but
tlic cflH-cts of over-feeding are almost always attributed to other
caitu's; and physic, cordials, bleeding, diui-etics, in short, every
thing, except the most simple, economical, and effectual remedy,
is employed for their removal. When a horse tJierefore is
observed to eat a great deal of hay, and to devour his litter if
tltere bo no hay before him, and especially when he is found to
be dull and sluggiith, or thick-winded, he should be prevented
from eating so much hay. This can be doiK- ut first by w«tglt-
ing out a certain quantity daily, and dividing it into three por-
tions. If aHer eating his allowance he is found to eat his litter,
he should be siiU further K-«traiiie<l by a muxxle. A hoi-sc bc>
longing to the Oak-bill Brewery being found languid and weak
8T0HACR STAGOLKS.
u»
in hU work, was left in the stables for two or three days' rett.
On the second day )>e was aitaeked with violent colic, which
terniinaied fatally in a few hours. On oi>ening the body, the
slomacli was found loaded with undigested food, and the bowels
distended with excrement and air, and highly inflamed. It was
evident, then, that what wa« intended for ilie horse's bcnelit was
the cause of his death ; tliat is, leaving him in the stable to eat
and drink a% much as he liked. This horse laboured under
another disadvantarre biJsi'U-s that of an immwleralc appetite;
there were nlmr]) edge* on his grinding tcfth, which rendered
nia.>(lication rather painful, and cau.M^I him lu swidlow tonie of
his com and beans uiichewi-d.
1 once examined a horse that died of the fret or colic, and
found his bowelsBO enormously loaded (and hia stomach also pretty
full) that I was induced to inquire how the horse had been fed.
Tlie man who had the care of him informed me that the night
before the tmrse was taken ill he put, as near as tie could judge,
thrcf quarters of a hiiiidred of bay in tlie rack for two cart
horsirt, and that he had given thi» horse, in mldition to a shar«
of thin allowance, about halfa peck of barley : ihit ap[K-ared to bo
the usual allowance lor the two horses. Horses that eat to much
ae()uir« a permanent enlargement of tilomach and boweli, and a
constant craving fur water as well as food, generally preferring
dirty or muddy water, and seldom refusing the most GItliy. I
know now a team of earl horses, at Wells, that 01*6 allowed to eat
as much hay and drink as much water as thev like. The pond at
which (In-y drink is formed by Uio rain which Hows from the
roof of llie stable, and from the court, where there is a htrge
<lung-)>cap constantly kept, the drain of which flows into the
{tond. The water is always of a dark or dung colour, like an in>
fusion of horse dung, and would Ik- found, I should think, excel-
lent manure. Mr. Oarrod, the proprietor, assured me that his
waggoner had repeatedly tried to make them drink at a running
stream about a mile from Wells, when they were returning from
a journey and thirsty, but they always refused; yet as soon at
they got )u>me, and were p<-rmitted to go lo this fililty pond, thvy
drank witli the grvatc«t avidity.
CHAP. XXXII.
ffTOSIACII STAUOEnS. — PAtatY Vf I'lllv STOMACH.
This dit«ase apiwars to consist til « iwlsy of the stomach)
generally arising from over-distention, oy taking too large a
190 nisKAScit OF THE ttoiisr. ^H
quantity of food of an indigcalible nature. It iB&eldom observed
until ilie symptoms are fully establislied, for the animal is induced
to continue feeding as long as tlie stomach is capable of holding
its food, ami t'ermcniaiion is ilHn'et>y prc\-cntpd. What VH
pceuliHr condition !», nobo<lv can tell ; it (tor* exift, and |^H
i|u<-i-s the cfTc^t 1 liavf desenbcd, and that t« all tlini appears to
be known of it. It hap))cns at gnxit as wvll n# in the >tablp, but
geiiendly occur* in low *<■! xitiMttionis wlwr* tlie ffnum b coarK
and abundant, and mo«t frequently in the fall of tlie year, or
October. 'Hterc i» mrely any symptom of acute pain wi ni
flatulent colic, or of violent delirium a> in indammatton of the
brain ; aint, what i^ ivniarkable, the pulse is seldom aliert-d in out
degree whatever, nor is respiration or breathing much slfected,
But when the disorder has proceeded to some len«h, botli the
pulse and the breathing become affected, and I hare knovm it trr*
minale, rn one case, in inflammntion of lite hmg«. Sometimn
it inflanH'f the stomach and boweh; b»l nio»t conin«>nty llw
fatal termiiintion di-pends ui>on the torpor of the atoniiKli iurill
or upon apoplexy.
The Symptomf of this disorder are. great heaviness and drow-
siness, resting ihe nose in the manger, or iitclining the head, and
resting the cheek, or bearing against the wall. The head k
forced against the manger, or rack, or the no«c between ihr
rack stavfs. In this way tltc eyes an<l face are often much
bniiM-d and swollen. 'Hie horse staniU with ht* fore teg much
tinder him, auix-urin"; to give way eveo' now and then, m if Iw
would fall. There m an appearance of conrulsive twitching of
tlio muscles of the neck and chc«t. There it, too, a great degivo
of yellowness, approaching to ortnge-colour, of the ntembrann
of the ej'es, and often a yellowness of the mouth also. Urine
•cnrcx-ly any. and liif^h-citlonred; Kometimex none is voided, and
oceasiutiiitly it is distharged by a convulsive effort. Sotnetimn
the disorder is ntteniled with locked jaw, ending in paralysis and
death. In the early stage of the disorder the horse is often
suddenly roused by opening the stable door : Ite lifm op his head,
and sometimes neighs ; but this is only n momentnrv effort.
When the disease liappena iit ^rajtSg the animal is generally finind
lorcing his head ogninst the la-dge, or a gate, or moving about
in a state of stupor and apparent insensibility. Some(ime» be
is found struggling in a ditch, and in that situation he often
di«-s. In tl)c low country, in the neigliboiirliood of Glastonbury
and Wediooor, the dismrder wait very prevalent before the en*
closures were made, and the land drained, it generally, or
always, ended fatally ; but the horses lived sometimes a month or
two under the symptoms of the disorder, but in a less degree.
It is pi-obahle ihe disease was thus slow in its progress, from ttic
tioniacli not being so loaded as in the ca«es which commonly
liTOMACU STAOOERS.
151
occur. Tlic bor»es generally at lengtli fell into a ditdi, and
diet). The disorder was attributed by tbe proprietors of the
country lo the plant namctl ragwort, which cattle iveie observed
to mU fre«-lv, and were ta'id to die in con»e(juence, in a Bimilor
maniwr lo liunies. 'Flic truth, however, appears to bC) that the
dbordcr wait brought on by Ok coldness or the situation, and the
poor k«p or rery bad Imy tltai it goiiernlly gircn to homes and
cattle in tliat country; for it wa« ob»cr%-ed that sliwp ale
greedily of ragwort, and never aufFored from it : but tliey would
eat iliu plant during itie Uni year only of it* growth, when il
t tender and succulent, while cattle and horsea were observed to
t it in ilie second year of its growth, when the stalks become
large, and of course diflicult ol digestion. II' Iwrscs liad but
UtiW else to eat, and were thus compelled lo eat such indigestible
fond, tin- di«ca<c inigbt have been so produced; but the buy in
tliat country is generally bad, and tlie country low, open, cold,
and damp, and llie honc-^ and cntlU- ofcourw unbenlthy.
Since the liind luvt been drained tbe grawi anil hay Iwve bci-n
improved, and the siaggen veldoni occur. Some time Hince I
received a letter from a gentleman of Swansea, in which lie >nj
that a disease has many tinies occurred among the horses thn
work in the mines, resembling stomach staggers, but in a more
violent form. It has bpen so destructive at times, that one pnn
prictor lost more than a hundred horses by it. It unt
proved fnia! ; and though it was carefully investigated, no satis
factory account could be given of it.*
^M The rotlowiog U aropy afihc letter Btluilcd lo: —
" Sip, — I'rnnii IDC thoi^ n Hnngvr, lo nildKni Kimc ohnynratioiM loyoti
on a iliMiHH) wirirh yvu Iiht« dMcribud uiitlui' iIki iijudf ot' Stomach ^loj^gcra
in youf fir»t volume, o* Coropcndium of tho Vijlcrinnrj' Art. I have nrrvt
•eeii »ny nieMion of it in any olhcr trcatiar bi-rorc. (liouRh I have tccn ii n>i;<i
with the most Jcttniclive vli>iciii.*i- in Ilic- iirighl)ourliooij of Swunscn. in <>!■■•
iBornnthlrr, wIkvw il is enllctl thu iliikt[<in[ii-r. Fur a luii^ vtrivi of ycnri it
ha* lic«n ihc object ot inquiry ; liui ii hn* nertTf been iiivixitgMeit on ilii- spot .
t
t any on« liumi^ ^ Bi-it-titiiif kimwltitlge of ihe (liicaic* of linrjic", exccpff]
rtivkuxioil. of nrivhloii. wlio wiiH neiit iluirii some 3-eara nan. xhcn ihtf I
iliiiciuie raj[eil tao*l violunllj. by a ucntli'iiinii who owned « wrj hage nuiiibo' I
oThorMs) but lie wua not nucccurul. I'rrniil mc iiuw lo my, lliiit I do iiot j
thbik you have >veii (he discaM n^ns with ihc vlohnicc. or io th<- cxeiit. It !
has freqiMtitl; done iic;ir S«Ami«n. Its coiiiiiitnttiiipiil is ilri-ailcii like itiifj
placiie. The oyMiKonM yoa meiiiioit nru oxnctlj' well im oreiiF 1 and iha'l
uisraction yw% (loinl out betitcen llie lirain RlnKitrrii mid nlonini-h ■lii^eri ia
conacl I fwT ihmigh the yi<lluwne,H of (he eye* mid inouili hiti jtciienilty
wemcd otncmtioD, I hiivc n inemorHiitluiii purliciilnrly nolii'injt llint n iiinii,
m 0*l«i|| n b>U to a horie in ihiK ditonlcr, Intil liia linnll Ii>ig«d ijuiic .vi-ltow,
anil I hure no dmibl it cciicmlly occur*. Hut liO'iilm the xviiijituu'ia you
incnlion, Ihe nnlnisl is Niit;|«cted to a ovneml cuniultive iilKftinn; rrei|[)i>i'ttiy
Btlenipi* Ici Aale, anJ tUidMveea a little urine at b time, liy xhooti, iih if rui»-
vuUcd, nnJ iikkE coitimonly tlic aniinal'it jftw l« luckvd some tirnc previous tO'
his death
statuil iho imoieiliBte sfmptomik, I
L 4
t59
DISEASES OF THS BORSB.
AftiT considcrtiifi can-fully all t!tc circtitnMancot connected
wiili this disorilor, I ^lill led at a loas to uceoiiDL Tor it. A* tlic
rifcadhonlcrH il apprtrtd. or rnlhcr niscrf, tvtat $ir»tMoa. The mHIoi
eowtTlwve of sny luiniculHni bq^m nbout (lie yctg I7W, but Ilwovit
■ at tinic* *t*iled iKc ni-ighlwurhouiJ overtince tliv}-c»r ITtMi. I(](eftBnl^
ffnt ta rage between July iiod the cnil or 8«pt<iiiU-r : the cuU weatticr b
l-WMtcr hiM gcnornlly atujiped itj but tlie iMtnuI il nude lu U cuiitinunl two
iaitin: mrt. In one ynta a neighbour of ours lost luore (ban n htiodrcJ
Ihonabj'il, anJ lh<>ncxt u-jir wo Iimi nbout tbiri}', It altncXa batk bcm*,
1 ami evtrjr age inilini-tiuiiniitvt}' ; liui luiininhi at gfa«>, IB bigh romitloo, and tt
I ca*v or no trurk, up^iciir to bt most su1>jcct to it, and ta have it wiili man
lialrncc Till the lime it vitili.-il u>'. Kiiini&li ki-pt in h Mubic wvrc rooiUcrcd
' U prolccled from il. Ilona k<'{it in (liv niiticx undrr grauiKi tisil netv hai
k. I mode n ttntilc in unc uf «ur uiitk-r-ground uorti, to fctiMHr* al oat
, korwa, but belurc I ciirrieil lliu plnn into uttcct llic liiioute bcpan to dcclioc
At ihc hriiihi of (he tUtordrr bi>r*ra Midoni or avrtr, recover. When m
I aiiiiiiul (loc!i rccoTcr it i« cowidtrud ai a lavoiiivblc propioUic, nnil «« tMk
pfor a ddlrery rmni lliis [ilugiie. Tlic uniinaki ut gnsa ore mo»I Bablc t» it[
t«t nidi as lu^- kciii in a ■tiiblc. iinikr (he bi-M naiiagefneM, ar« also m1^
l.to the diiordcr. In ihu vcor IHOI, whvnil Init racrd viih iix, lloat a valaaHn
J horw that iian i<erfiM:tly well {{ruoiued i tHi( 1 shall huiv to mke temt
I'ObMrntioni on hit ca*e whrn 1 riicntioii llic disM-'ctians, and the apft-
I iMnttoila I have of the disorder being «oningiciu», whieh I shall now pfocMJ
7 to do. Tlic appeurani-'e ami stntc of ihc nlnmnch arc, f^encrAlly, *uch a* yot
have deurribcd; but in the viilimble hur«e bciure nienliomd, and a Tew ottol
which died ofthisiliwrilcr, (hit WM not (he inse. I litg hrre to oboerro, litf
I I had been very B((ict in my Ktnlilc rqiinicn, and nnrlicnUrt}' in the quantky,
i quality, luid time of giving food and uiucr; and I allribulc the cnip(incu«f
nie atomach to thii (vuhc. Thuiigh I did not preTent tiie ili»eiu« b; thk
preckution, it mode all (lie ivnipIon» mihJrr. I nui not a Riirgooii, or a tr\im
tific roan ; but in cinmining thr liodin of hor»e) tfttr death, I harr bcM
fsiritttd by a surgeon, unci liuio generally found, with the excc|Mioa of the
tloadod iilonini.li, und u «lii;hl iiidumuiutiun for a unall IcnKlh. bdow ifae [lylo-
lnM,Bnd nomeliiiiet ii little ri^plciion ufihc vet»oU ofthe brain, every |»rl (nt
I ftam diaouc. 1 could not, for a long (iii>c. bctieic: ihnt the diaraw waa eoata-
iRiou), but now ftar it it highly toi jet do nut think (hi* cimunatnncc baa
been proved. When the disorder lutt Ix'gHn.ii neighbour who had lost a p^aal
many honu by it mhii a pnrt^l of their tkin* to n neighbouring town to be
I Bold. The liorsoB that drvw the uuj:goa in whi<h tliey were conveyed wew
thencit — HitLtlhrnin iinhoic Hjuce ofdmc — whieh fell vidliiiB lu the diaordc*.
I llunn thut had been in the stahin where the dinordcr ragod <acre MAt to
t-wrk under ground : tborv, uku, the diiiordn won aAcr made hta nppiBninc^
tlbr (lie nr»t time. Our iieighbuuni (iniily believe it iH coiitagioiM. They look
tti'cry pTeeaulion lu prtvont (onlaicion, and (be di»cii«o left ihcui. I ww in-
[eredulouH, and at ttinl lime we hoJ nol minerol. A hurtc from [h<'ir nelgh-
I'bourbooil eaiae (u gmw in Bonie ficlda throUKh which wine of o<ir Imrxa
iWd; he died of thi* disorder, and was left unbitiicd. From thin nMoicat
: diaU:iii(H.-r begun with lu ; but not knowing the (-irciuimiance of tbv Iwia
nalninji tinbuiicd, I loak do prccinilion to jireveut contagion. Tbc valuable
''tlorae Li-lurc iiientioned h-u (uken ill tbe next ihiy, and *oon died. He bad
been iit n tieicbbouiitig liiif. ami wub Itft with n man to hold ahtle I did mj
hiiiincM. I do nol liiiuw ih»( ho bod any eouiinunivation with other bunel.
■ but iU[ijii>3c bo luunl. The eomnion l«rnici''i> horio in ihif nciglkbutirliuoa
I've nil litidl^ nniruigeil ; yvl I have known itioic «ha lake piu|ier cm ofllNk
Iiorji^R. who do not overwork ihcin, and even ihoic who keep iheiii at graaii,
tuse u!l their honH», when their teu carufid nelgltbour* \mv none, I lute
STOUACH STAGflEllS.
Btomacti was Jii nlinost every inetanco found loadotl wiih dry iin-
Uigcstctl foocl, I tiavc considered tliat as I lie Jmniediuti; c<iu»e of
known B man lone hia «ho4c *tock t>icc in one j'mr. When 1 bconn to (taif
eaBIagtoa. even hofsc ihat ilivd of ilic distemper uu biiricil withDiit being
skinaed. We buvc liotl no reluni tlicsc five jean."
Acconli")! to ihu obMrrMions ofn »ui^ton,Hhu liad nuuij o|iporttnil^e» of
Htiag the iliicsdi; nt 8wanKs^ and examining the bodin of tiornu thnt ([inl
of t1, (he ii)mpl(iini of -iloiniwh RlBiOieni tu that pluce uv, huivincii, itiinor,
laaani'iB al wurk, swinging tin; bead froni aide to tiiiJc. or piiehing it Icrw :irJ, ur
retting it in llic timn^i.-r, hm never turning it rouiiil, or ilRiwind: it liuckwurds i
often ■tHJiJing f»r liotin muiiuntcs:!. then alight ivrilchc* of the limbi nnd
other jKuti of'th« liody i (hey m-tii wenk too, and nfnuilorblling. There is
a hcwrm^ of thu flnnkn, ilie enf« ato eM, the tya gtoMf i Home ^ruw liiiiiift.
di*toty •tilT. anil the jaw is rri>]u(-iitty lockcil ) lotnc beat their hcnils about,
and kick out at ever}- tliiiiR, hut arc licrcr obscrrcd to kick their bcllici, ni in
^{■o. The first sjnijituiiiii, bealinji; llie heail ajpiintt the ground, or manger,
nxreaM : the; olUn lorec llic noac through tlie liora of ine hnj-rarka ; the
jaw become* doM-'ljr locked i tbc^ fall j the tvilchinp incrcniica : violent per-
■pdration breuki out in Mine ; in others the skin ii dry and tiglit, uiid tlie
nrn ofwa and (taring jet the hurac iippeHn to tw UinJ. lie mnkM water
(nBoatnlly, which i* lorcol out a* if li/ ft gcocral *pBuii.
f'atal Symplaini. — The coltlncM and itilTocai of the whole body incren*e ;
the loiat beoomo extremely ninchcd la | the cyca vetj gl(w«y ; llie jaw* closely
locked ; nnd tbe ibng i-ery nard and ity.
SymptomM 1^ Betovrr^. — Very Tew recovered : In ihciic ihccoldncM of tha
cars Bod body IcucncJ : the jaws IiccHme rcluxe<l ; conviiUioni nbntcd -. the
eye afipeared mure tirct/j slulmg less freijueni, and witliout upjiearanvc of
tpaam. Tboy nttcinntcit to rnt and drink i mid the duug becamf muiater and
M • I%Im colonr. ( mt of founcorc unly four were niippotcil to linve rcco-
vered i anil one of iIksc, on being turned out, ran ruund the litld aeveral
tinea, then fell and died. Aiiollier aeoined to have licen relieved by /ir^iiM
The diacaie ia not diicoTcrcd till tbc cH>e i* become dcipcmte, and then it
iBOaBy kills in twoily or thirty liours. Almost every reiuoily lias been tried ;
vii. btrediaf! (<|uvi]>. to whnt eilvnC ? vas it riipion* or otherwise ?), hot Iwiha,
calunel, pur^ng medicine, 'nits, opium, riimphor, Jaincn's powder, anil nuo-
(ordds I Done ol' tlicm cppcured to lie uf service.
8ix horse« iIihi died <if lliiu diiitcniper wire exHiuined by l)iia eeiitleman.
" In four of ihcm the Ktomiich wni lonilcil And much ilitlcniled. In one iha
itonmcfa wni nearly empty : but the large bowrU were much biulcd. In lli«
lixcli the \Ktff: intettioes were loiiJed. iniil tlic rectum wu-i fidl of hurd dung i
but the stomach hm not much distenileil wliji I'uod. In ull of clicin the lower
port of the ilomach wna more or leu intlnmcd : ami in aome the intcitinea
obo, M well u thr uieuibmiie which covers them, and by which Ilicy are con*
nect«<I towiber."
Prom the foK^ing obacrvncioiiii, it i* evident that the Swnnim diitcm|icr
ii the Btonwcfa itnggers in a luurv severe form than 1 have generally seen it i
and lhi« prcdMbly licpended on the honct bdoc kept in good condition nnd ftill
of blood. It aeema to hare occnrr«d mo«t commonly ul grns*, when the pot*
lure wa* abundant and verj' nutritious i fur thouuli in one year, 1800, the
Minimer das remarkably ilry, yet in nicndowa thnt iiad bt'cn well waleicil tha
little firsis there waa, of crcn the root*, were cirecdiniily nutritious, which ia
evident from liorvta gelling so faC us lliey are Tound to do in such puslurea,
oimI at Bii'.-t) K«*ona.
In ITho, the lird time nny accurate nccotint liiu been kept of thia occur*
rencc. thouch the diienie bad been traced back to the j-eur 1700, lh« auromer
DisE.tsE9 OP TnE noase.
the diwrtuo ; but tlie cliGBcuIty lies in accounting for ihr appctiir
wbieb Indt Ok animal to cram bj» stoniacb in Buch a imiuuf.
waa woi , Kid it iIk^ began in June, nnd continnDil dnrinc Jsly, Attfoat, tad
thiploinbcr. In ITH? it begun in Jiity, nnd caotiMieiil dnring Aupnt, Stp-
tcinlM!r, nod gr«i
•umtiwr WMin, and
t nan of October. In Ihii pxr ibe •pri(i| ww wet, but IM
nil lliwe mniii a very hixuriant crop of alhr-gniss. Id I6QP
tile miflimfr wa* unuMinltjrdry and hot; great cropa of hav. but no *'tffl^|
It ihauld bcobaoved, that "animoliial cntM, m AiX'l cvthUlin, amj td j^H
w no uvnt, appear ia Ar motr ntyrtl to H, ani /d Aoar it trith merp *Mlra(ir?^
that " li SMimllj ia|^ bFtii««n July and the nd of Saptonbcr ;" and tbit
" iho cold weatim haa gcncrnlljr aiorocil it." The aaniie writer aajra aboh m
another letter, " I hare mentiiHied our none* bcio|t atiadied tbc fair felbiriiv
our neighltour^ grmt loaa, and vhen xhey -mm fm from tt : now ino« of our
horara were purpoidjr kept in the Hiabli.-, and I h^vc tnnir bl«n they wrrt fnl
niwii hay a( ihe aame ^tnr that our nci^bour'a hone* were fed upon the \m-
codtnfl ycnr : could ihu be aacenvned, it inght lead to a i&Kar«t^ of the r«l
cause of tbc diiunnper.'' I pwfeetly asruc with my ift«tl%ent correapondMt
ill tliix aiiiiiioii ; nnd if lh« nuy «*> niailo in the fin« itry MiimiKf of 1MM,
when the rropo nrc Dialed ta Iinrc liccn lo luxurinnl, the CMiac appnn W
ine very eridcnl. With retard to tbc opinion of its beine ronlagiou*, it b n«l
no an*y to ilnrrniinv ; but it I* alwaya aiiviuble on »ucn onaailoiw to ad u
if it really were so. The (vncliiiion of the gmilcmnn'i letter ii nuffidaii 10
ahow the propriety of ihi« aJiirr. " When I beg»n to fear contigioa,* Iw
tay*. "rtrry hone tlinldieil of the distemper oaaburinl without b«ii^BklBBsd,
nnd "e hnve hiid no return theao five year*,"
Whether the poitoii which ntodueea ihb dJacMc be contocioiH eOins, or
Bfiaaa flwn luatiriom foodtng, rt b eridcnt Inim direction tnat ibe atoaatfc
waa the b^nrvd organ ; and that if, by ilie unutuol Htronetli of the Moaiarfa.er
by the medieinc which wnn eiren, the loii4 wns n-iiiove>1 from ihil nrf^an, tU
Croat kwwel* were found loaded ; " and toincliino there wa> n liiile repJctiaa
III the vewfli of ihc brain." One wai relieved (recorered) by prnfutr itni-
iN^. Now, ihoujih bleeding is mentioned m one of the reinetlica employvl.
it i< not said in what ntonner they wcrr bled — probiriily it wan in the comtiMii
way i thnt i*. nbniic two or three miart-i were taken off: whereas by profiue
hiecitins, [ ihoiild suppoie two ^tlloiiit at IraM. 1 have known more iliw
four ealtonit of hlooJ tidien Irom a horac In abiiut nn hour, wiih ■iiree*.
Mr. Itogon, of Rxrirr, informeil me lltnt he took (Ire cnllnr» lioni a horie in
bndn ItaKtira or phreniy in ihe course of Iiro or thret* lionrs, unci the horie
mcwrrredr Mr. OoU-niun tlutc«, in hin LetlnfM, th*l H l!w. hnrc l)em taken
nt one lime. It apjieiin to me thnt the ijwunarii diitemner dcpeoilcd upuri
repletion of the l<lo(Hl,miels, ai well ta of the mooinch anii bo«cU, nail
«hoiilii hnrpbi'eii ircatcd with rvjnnni bleeding, si inmlaling djirtrniof will and
water, nnil ■ I iian latins purjjalirc drcnehet. A diaonlcr rcry ttniihir to llif
Swan'iea disteinper hoa occurred amiHiK cattle at tirata in tome ricli meodow
funiM in iStimcrvctshiru; ubout wliicli I hare been con«ulteil. TTie propri-
clora have ihc aame opinion with r^un) to ila origin and nnture n* the Swan-
tea people hure ; llnit if, ihcj- thinlt it contnjtkiui, and imuioc it orjjpoatet
In tome poinononi h^rb* ^-rowing in ihe pattures, wbieh Rouritfa at aoine
anuoni unil in lonie titiiutioni in n ctvnier degree than M othcra,
Tlie firtt occtifrmce of ihiii diaorJer, nt more probnWy the firat time it a*-
tractcd notice, waa in Itie n-mnrkably hoc and dry Mimmer of 1619, (n the Iv-
ipnninf; of wliirh a row ilini on one of the farmii, an>l woa thrown into an
ai^joining river. The nniiiiul wiu washed n lit lie nnyduwn the urnun, and
wa* left on the opcKwiie lide, which belonged to another farm. Here it beCMie
C'd and very offtnaive: ontj from thit period the iliattoiper bcgain, and hai
occiirrin; nt diflbrent pcrioilt cner ainev. The oecupier of the ' ~ '
trOXACU ETAGOKBS. I6S
Id one caw lliat occurred near ExcEcr, I had nii o^iponnnity of
wcigliin^ llw ittomaeh wiilt its oontciits ntul it amntmtixl to rather
where the patrid carcau wm wailici] lo*t ■ cantidernble number of cattle ;
and, coiuuileHig the putrid nrcnm ox the cuiuc, brought an action B(pnmt the
funocT who threw the itm(\ cov intu (he ririT. A vcnilci, hinmrr. wm bund
br the defendant : name cniineni nhyMcinni nnd snrgconii who mere ratifies
nMd oa the oceuion, w veil m Air. Uurrcir, vcicrinnn' nirjttnn, nnd mjHH|
bdug of opielon thM the low dd not ori^nBtu Troni tTie putrid carctua. At
pttMM, bowcvor. I bare tome iloidtt ttpao tiiis point ; and at all mate wtmld
advMC every one to hotj niumnli immciiintclv, (kin mid all, wlictt A<y die of
hi^lj inflaimnaior}' diBordiTs, m thwe errlainlif mere, cipecialhr in ninmier.
Onlv one of tbe anIsiiU attacked wiih thin di«tem|}cr recottrvtl, and he waa
H«l MofiucI)-, that i», to ftinlncw. It is worthy of remnrk, thnt in every
animal that haa died of thii disorder (for thctf. nnd pi^ and one hanc, hnve
died of it, bedilesa great nnmberof <:iiitlc:\ nnd tb«y .appear to hare ex-
amined a freat number if not aTl that hnvi.- ifird. the aplcon or milt ha* been
fuund matl; eiilarKcd and dlalciitTcd, or even tninting with dnrk fluid blood.
Accuranff to the account of thoK |ieo|ilc, thin wai tlie only morbid nppenr-
once. Tliit, himeter, I liitre reason to be'lievu Is an errur, untng to their in-
compaleacy to cx.iminc or judge of the itntc of the internal naru ; for lince
that tine, I bare been aent for to examine three cow* that lar dead of the
diaorder. In atl ot ihoiu I found the Hpleen m they deaeribeu i that is, eiH
lamed to about four timet ilt natoral siie, and ntw^y burviine with dnrh-
nlourcd fluid blood ; a great deal npncnred to have doixS llirouKh it*
invcaling mcntbrone into the abdomen, and to hare tinged nnd even penelratcd
tnlo the tc»tare of some of the ncishbouring psrta. But thii wn» not the
only loortild Bp[>eamuec; there was n (-untUtcrahIo areninulnilun of blood in
Ibe brain, npccinllj in two of tlicni. anil inme of the imnll vtaicU had burat.
Unc of iheiu. bi-tng rsiher du, woa stuck n liiort time before the fatal sytnptaon
came oa, and in tni* iln- aplven and the bniin were the oreaua chiefly nfleeted i
but in the others the heart and tH02s »«rr much nflteted, or rather distended
wiih blood ; and in one of these the heart and the Kver were Tery tender, and
euily broken with the fiiii;cr. Whether ihit enlargement of the spteeu 'u a
ain^Iar or peculiar oi'ciiiTence or not, is at present unecriRin; for it ia an
onpu) to which *o little imporlnncc hn* l<ecn etlachcd in leleriiiary examin-
ation, that I can eatily cociccite tfani a eonsidemble erilargeiiient of it may
ha*e eacaped notice; or, not b»iig thuiiglit worthy of nutic« or recollection,
may hate been entirely lotgoltcn. I cannot And Biimilardiseaacof theaplocn
dcacribed in any English or French veterinary book. It appeun to me that
oea UnporiaiM utte of ilt« spleen is pointed out by ihcte eatea, especially when
wecOMider ho* (potigious and dilniable it is, and how little •cnsibiliivit pi>»-
aeaiiea. It seems to serre ai a rcoeptaele for suncrfluoui blood, nlicn the
aanauiferous syawn la In a state of repletion, and tfii-te happens to he a retro
ccaaton of blood from the aiirfnce of Uio body in ronseqiiL-iiee of the chilling
impremona ofacold foggy aliDMpherei for I t-hould hnre obsrrvcd, ihnt the
stomacha of the cattle rcinmined were loaded with food, and that a river ran
through die l»cndow> in which Ihty were kejil ; in wbicli Mliiutiun the night
(be* are often very cutd,and pnnicnlurly apt to chill animaln when ihcitouineh
i> loodeil with food, and the wiuguiferous nyttem with btood. An nniuial dying
In thi*titnle, or ■■iiilhe blood," as it ii commonly tcniicd, noon bccomea {mtriiT,
and may he n lourei* oFcontngion.
I acn indcblc'd to thtr lute Mr. Poole, uu intetli);cut furrier, who prncijteil
vatendvcly at Piin«tiorr..ii(:h, ncnr Wt-lln. in the Moors or Moor tViinir;', iii
It U termed, for some toIiuiMc info roint ion on thi« Hil'jcet. Me mj'. " Hint
before the muori In ihu di>i<Hct uhcre he renidctl were vncloBeJ iinJ driiincd,
aO^gera or lethargy frequently hnpfivucd, and dcttroj'ed more horses than uny
4
ntgcAseg op thb horsil
more ihaii 64 \\k. Tltc ilisorcW which appcaml at Swnnwa
was generally supposed to be coiitngious ; and from so many
liorsffi being seited with it abnut tlie same time, it »eema ratlier
oihtn- ilisonlcr i but that siuvo ihej liare ticcn enclowJ It »t»rtely ncr hsfipcflK,
The following are iht Ryiii|icai>M ; — ttnniling in one place three or lour bollr*
vhilc ollicra were fciilinR ; S*|)in|[ •ci'erBt lime* wIiImuI intcrmiiwon i rcxiaf
tlii: diin on n gnti-, lUlc, or iiiungcr,or {luihing th« bead uguinit ■ irte or
piMt I llifi urine iiiid duiif,' in h'iiuII ijiiuittily, (ne lutMr uftrn witb iltmc or
' nacitt OD kU ttirface ; ol Icnglli nimliliiiK liboiit, enuhine here «in| di«re ■
^inoitthfiilarKnuia, till ot Inst tlin- terminate tlicjr life in ■ ditch, notid, or rtrtf,*
Bleeding in (Im tinuid qunnlily, lie tMjti, wkt tnirv io jirme Eital. Ilie diKMt
[ VMgcnenilly cunaliti-rcii incurnlilci hut lie cum) one borMstth becv aixt gmaer.
Mil ■notht-T with uiiokc'rool, muiturd, ■nflrmi, eompoond «pirit of laTtnder,
' »nd ginger. They attributed llie disurdv to the uninwt*! ntioK (h« pltM
ragwort (Senctio jueobarj) or stnggcrwort. In tlic imt pnrUt moor, whcrc
tliw licrti idMuiidciX. and where mnnj entile were kept. co«* were tuauA wJA
thU diiorder, and died in lite loinc munner. tic acrci heard of one bttag
cureil. The dlinuewuiauch sbwer in itaprogrew than uiiy otcs ofRti^jeri
I lini-e met with. In »ume inttnncoi it continiioj nearly two nootlii.
BIr. Ponlcdid HOC cxuminc the body of any aninut that died M thix iliaorder.
From the ibrr^uing itceouoTB, it ia evident thnt thert are dillcrcnt degttti
or»tomaeli *(<i^un, both in hi>r*M und mttlo, and that all of them are iocuraU^
tinlcM (eoionably attended to. En ifacliril,aracutcd(;fcroc,c>rljr aodcopMU
! Weeding aetiaiB to he nn eBientiul remcdr. Ai\erwnnl> mkin; the hiIsoL
I that i*. drawinj; uut tht hurd dung with the bund, and ufterwards throwin|
up n cl}'»ter of loli and wnlcr every two or three honrt ; then f:it Ing tlie IW-
lowing drcni:h »r Inll, and oflcj'wnrdji three or four drochmi of conipouoil
tjiirit ul' uinoiouid in k pint of wurtn wuicr crcry two honn, and n quart of
Wumi watttf' ever) hour, in unlcr tuaollen the eonteniK of the Htoiuacli and
' bowel*. In ihc Mcond nufc thnt io, in the cafci I hare ^nerulJv nns
with, eopiou-t blooding i> not no eiienlial u in ihc first ilage : attU blMuiu il
' gcocmlty neceasory. Ai to the exlvnt of the hlci-Jiii^', >c mint be anideirby
VciKumatances. I liuvu teen the I71orI uupious bleeding avail nothiiuii but
rtlwn probably the vital power of the slomnch wn* trreeoFcrably loM bnoretbe
idiusao wan obacrveil. In the iini kind, there is a repletioB of the hlood-
I teaacia m well as of the atuinut'li, nnd the rdlvf of tlie Ibmer la often thc|iri-
' JCmy object i but in the second kind, wliieh occurii gencrallr aooong sa^
, brnier)' lionci. which arc bndly or indilfrrcntlv fed, and worKcil hard, pro-
bably kept out in tome cold hcI nituution. the horse* are generally nuffoinj
I bom povcrtv of hlood nnd n drfieiency of vitid nower. Here trilliout rarly
puintancc tlic Btoniaeh aoon beeomci pmalracil, and the relief o( tit'n im-
portuut organ It generally the primary indication. In the lliird Lind. or
Bioor*Ingger*,lil'n:din|t " wa* *ure to prove fulul ;" and the rerneilie)i einplnj^d
I for the two honei which Mr. I'onlc cured were powerful slimuliinta and
I rurdialB. In Ihc Kccoiid kind. I have souivliines succeeded by giving wana
Btimiilatinj: purgative*, and cly*lcrinj[ the horae frcaucntly, untU a diacliarge
[wM obtained from the howcli. I have bled acconung to dreumataocc*, —
•onietinics from the ttnipural iirteriea ; but am inctioed to believe that bltjediei
I jhiiti (bp jugular veiii» itprefernble^aait iaihe vrinioflhebratn that «fe loodM
in inch cnica, and theac empty thcmselvea into the ji^pilar vetna. A hor*e
■llecli'd uith tlomoeh ataggers rcquirec conatant attention, The content* of
I the Rtoniuuh and boweU arc geiiernlly in a dry iinlc ; tbercfore lie should be
[frrqucnlly drenched nilh wunn iiutcr, wiili tuo or three ten-tpoonfiiU o(
■ compound tpirtl of uinnioiiiu mixed with It. luin inclined lo think the caN
bonale of KOila would grently ataivl the warni wnier in aoflening the content*
of tliG itomach, nnd tltcrcby facilitate lllcir diM-harge.
BTOKACH 8TAOOKBS. I $7
till
i
cit
ca
i
probablr that it was either contagious, or caused, like oth«r epi-
tk-mic dl^ajK-s by some peculiar state of the air with which we
arc unacquaiiXccl.
Gil)«on rdatcs a case of Ktomadi »tnggcrs which occurred At
grass. " Oh opening tlic botly," he wiys " 1 was greatly sur-
priM<<I to find \m ^tonindi und all hi» gut*, both larf;e and uniull,
fillH ami craiuDwd to utich u deirrtv thai ii would have hccii impo»-
»ibl<^ by any mewiit in the worlil, tohavo prociiixsl the Iwfl vent;
for all tlio alinicni iluii woa in ilw »iotnaclii and (h<- dung in the
bowelii, from one end to the other, wa.4 entirely dry and witliout
■noiaturc, and, before ihcy were ojicnedt appeared as hanl and as
full crammed as a Bologna sausage, without the least softness or
S'ielding in any part. The matter contained in ihcm was no
ess extraordinary, the stomach being filled with acorns, sloes,
oak-lcavc8, and such otlier things as lie could pick up about tlic
liedges ; some green and some withered. The contents of the
guts were chiefly leaves, ncitlier well-eliewcd nor digested, with a
mixture of grass. But tlierc was little or no grass in his stomacht
but chiefly acorn cups and loaves. This horse had been turned
into a very rank afler-ninnsh, nnd had probably acquired a de-
praved apjietite, which ledhini to eat indigestible and astringent
food."
The horses which I have seen in this complaint have generally
been larmers' horses that have been kept hard, and worked hard,
and in whom the stomach has been gradually weakened, and at
length brought to that ultimate degree of weakness which is named
pftlay. In K-vcral that 1 examined, the vi-ssels of the brain were
not lofldol inn remarkable degree; tbe»lomach only was affceled,
and evidently paralyst-d. The disense is scarcely ever iiotice<l in
this clasaofhor«e», until iiiitabifolulely incurable. Many of those
ne» were attacked at grat^ and almost always in low wd
ituattoits, where the grau was rank and abundant. It is not
ilikely tital in such i<iiuatiun$ the cold night air and fogs con-
ibnie something to tl»e increase, if not to tlio production of the
disorder. In the neighbourhood of Kxeter tht- disease hiis at
limes been very common, especially in low, open, wet siiuationn,
^ in the parish of Stoke, Kxiuinsler, and Dawliih. I liave
cured several cases; but in these the disorder was taken rather
early, and the horses were in tolerable condition, and had been
,ept in a stable on ffood food. In none has a cure been eliected
ithout a cousideraulo diiicharge from the bowels of excivment
iiet appeared to have been pent up in them for some time.
In establisltracnts where horses are worked &irly and pro-
perly fed, I liavc scarcely ever known this disorder happen. Not
a single case occurtx-d in the Itoyal Dragoons during the lime
I was veterinary- surgeon to the regiment ; nor in >Ii'. Ituisell's
establishment in Exeter, whose horses I attended for many years.
IM
DISSUES or TSE HOBftE.
I atn inclined to think tite disease is not so prc^-alont as it wti
Lweiity years sinc« ; and this may Ik on ing to an iini>roveuieoi
iu ihtf method of keeping and feeding horses. Probablj, too,
tlie great progress that has Ix-en tnaoe in tlic cultivation and
draining oflow marshy land may haw contributed to thedecrcsM
of the disorder.
As Mion as stomacli ilafEgrrs aro oh»crred, the horse should he
bl«d in ordw to rHtero the head in some degree; but the prin-
cipal object is to enable the stomach to get rid ol' the losil
vrliidi op|>rcss» it. Varioux rcim-die* liave br«n propowd far
this purpose. 'Ilto beat, 1 bvliew, are piii^tivc* joined silk
cordials and stimulanUi and small quantities o( wann water rce>
ijncutly, in order to torien the ronicnts of iIm; stomach. Clysun
of aall aiid water are tiierul idiKt, and should Ik- thrown up
MTonl time* a day. Tlie disease is often iucurabltt, probohly
firom a want of early attention.
When incdicinn cannot be readily procured, two or three
tablespoon fu la of flour of mustard, and diree or four ounces el
comnmii salt may be tried. On whatever eame stomach alaggen
may depend, I think it a useru) precaution, ai; soon as thv dbeofC
has made ils up|>earatice, to remove other lioises from the situ-
ation ; and if there is the slightest ground lor supposing that the
manner of feeding the horses has contributed to it, that likesrise
should be dianged, I would advise, also, a dose of warm or
Btonwchic physic being given to the other borsrs, to iinoron
lb« Mate or condition of ilie digesiirc system. Some relief may
be afforded In stomach staggers by nlacing a cask with a link
stnw ufton it, lor tlie Itorse to rest his liead upon.
Drtnth for du Stagyen,
No. I.
Darbadoes aloes 0 dr. to I oi-
Calomel '1 dr.
()d of pe^iprrmint * * SO drop*.
Warm water ..,,,. 1 pint.
Tincture of cardiimonw » 2 ox.
Mix Tor one doae^
No. 2.
Common salt 4 oz.
Oinger 2 dr. or Q (ea-spoonTnls.
C-arl>onate of soda _... I oz.
Water I quart.
Mix for otic dose.
About a quart of water may be given evei^ nov and then villi
a horn; ami if a tea-spoonful or tno of compound spirit of am-
monia (sal volatile) be a<lded to il, the eflect will be promoted.
H
STOMACH STAaaEEK. 159^
A table-spoonfut or two of common salt may also be added
three or four times a day. The horse should be drenched and
clyatered during the night as well as the day ; in short, without
unremitting attention success must not be expected.
[This disease has become considerably less frequent than when
the previous account was written by the author, although then
he states it was not bo common as formerly. The cause of
this must be attributed to the better system adopted in feeding
borses at the present day. Formerly it was customary for agri-
cultural horses to go from six in the morning till four in the aner-
-noon without either food or water, and then to be allowed a large
Quantity of food without water. Now their daily work is either
irided into two periods, or otherwise they are allowed a little
food in the middle of the day. Thus their stomachs never being
so empty, ihey no longer gorge themselves to the same extent,
and the disease is therefore much lees frequent. When the dis-
ease occurs at grass, and particularly if a number are attacked
together, it is owing, in my opinion, to some poisonous vegetable.
In a form in Hiunpshire, about two years since, in the course
of some months, three or four horses died of a disease, somewhat
■imilar to that described in the account from Swansea.
There was great drowsiness and lethargy manifested, the horses
were weak and sta^ered in their walk, and the membrane of
the nostrils and eyelids was pale.
T^e next case that occurred was sent to me, and it slowly
recovered after a fortni^t's treatment, consisting chiefly of tonics
and stimulants in order to rouse the system into greater action.
This horse had for some time past been feeding on spring
vetches, which contained an immense quantity of weeds.
Whetlier this was the cause, I cannot say ; but at any rate it
appeared highly probable that the disease was owing to some
poisonous substance calculated to depress the vital powers.
With regard to the Treatmmt of stomach staggers when pro-
ceeding from distention with food, in addition to that recom-
mended by Mr. White, it would be advisable to pour liquids into
the stomach by means of Read's patent syringe, so as to dilute
its contents, and if possible to evacuate a portion of it by these
means. Instead of aloes, it would be advisable to administer
croton oil in doses of from twenty to forty drops, not only be-
cause this medicine is so much smaller in bulk, but alao because
its action is quicker and more immediate on the stomach and small
intestinea. — Ed.]
160
DISEASES OF THE HOHSK.
CHAP. XXXIII.
DISEASES or THE UOWELS.
Infiammatiott oftht B»KtU, Erderiti*, PeritonitU, jr.
[THEitR arc thrcv varieties of. iiifUinimation of the bovelt:
enteritis, or iiifltunmution of ihe muscular coat; periionitu, «r
iiiflnmniatioii of the peritonea] coat; and dyaeaiery, or iitflam-
niati<>ii of (he niiicoiis or internal ooat.
'I1ic two Rnt lire gciu'i-nlly connected together, at Iea«t one
coal ii rarely aflvcteu witliout in some measure involving tbe
oUier.
Cases of Entcritit, Itowerer, are far more IVequent tban those
oi Ptritonila. The inalancea in which the latter exists as n ])i>
niarv disease are cases, rollowing castration, when t)te inflsm-
mstion spreads alone the course of the cord to the peritonesl
memhraitc in the abifomen.
Tile si/mpioma of peritoiutis are somewhat similar, iliou;;li
by no means so acute as in enteritis, and the treatment should
be pretty much the same.
Enteritia may come on suddenly, and may at once exhibit ilir
most violent and intense character; or It muy Ik* [>rec«^ded bv
milder symptoms, which may exist either for several hours or for
Several daj's. lA'heii it is stow in coming on, the &n\ symptotits
are dulnees, want of appetite, and uneasiness ; the pulse some-
what quickened, and the horse occo&ionally pawing his litter.
When relief is not obtained tn this stage of tt>e disease, tlir
symptoms become aggravated, the pain greater; the Iwrse lying
rluwn, siretchinfT himself out, and struggling violently, rho
pulse usually at fintt distinct, altliunijh (juick, lK-coni» qutckei'
and weaker, nnd almost impercopliblo. The bowel* are con*
atipated, and the dung coated with n)ucu#. The legs and ears
are cohl, tlie mouth hot, the membrane of the evelids highly
injected, and the lii-eathiiig greatly aceelei-ated. This Htoge of
the disease rarely laxt* long: unless relief be obtained, deaili
usually cIw(,-« the se4.*nc in the course of six lo eighli^n hours.
When such in the cam; the sympionis beeome more disire^inj;.
ibe horse lying dowiii and rniely rising, but struggling almost
in a frantic sute, though with diminished strength ; at length
cold sweats break out, and the mouth feels cold, and death soon
follows. In some instances I have known ilie animal contlimu
his stniggles till within a few minutes of bis death, and in otliers
the violence of the f>ymploms has disappt-aied for some hours
before the liulal termination. In these latter cases tbeaitendanU
INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS. 161
usually imagine the horse to be considerably better, and expect
his recovery; but the practitioner finds that the pulse is imper-
ceptible, the extremities obstinately cold, and anticipates what
he surely finds, dissolution in the course of a few hours.
The tymptamt of enteritis somewhat resemble colic, and indeed
the disease is termed by farriers the red colic.
It is, however, of great importance to distinguish the two di&-
eases, fer the treatment of colic would be highly injurious in
a case of enteritis. It has been stated that a horse will not roll
on his back in inflammation of the bowels ; hut this is erroneous.
The chief distinctions are these, — in enteritis the pain is con-
stant, though not at all times equally severe ; whilst in colic the
pain, thougn more violent than in enteritis during the paroxysms,
yet disappears, or nearly so, between them. There is, too, an
important difference in the pulse, which in enteritis is constantly
quick ; whilst in colic it is but little increased, except during a
paroxysm, after which it subsides.
The causes of enteritis are (in addition to natural weakness of
the part aifected which induces one horse to receive the disease
more readily than another, though exposed to the same exciting
cause), over- exertion, exposure to cold, particularly standing
in water, or passing tlirough streams in a state of perspiration,
and standing still atterwards. To which may be added drinking
largely of cold water when heated, and sul»isting on unwhole-
some food.
TVeatment. — Having properly examined the case, we should
immediately have recourse to bleeding, and that as extensively as
possible : for this purpose a large opening should be made in the
jugular vein, or one on each side, and trom six to eight quarts
taken as quickly as possible, continuing the bleeding till the
pulse becomes almost imperceptible. The bowels Ijeing costive,
the dung should be removed by back-raking, and a copious in-
jection thrown up. A pint and a half of linseed oil and one
drachm of powdered opium may next be given, and a half pint
of the oil, with half a drachm of opium, may be repeated every
six hours, till the bowels are relaxed ; the injections being also
frequently repeated.
The abdomen should he fomented with very hot water, which
should be continued tor some time ; and it will afterwards be very
useful to apply hot sheep>skins, just removed from the dead
animal, to the abdomen, the woolly side outermost. If these
cannot be procured, the fomentations should be repeated, or the
abdomen may be stimulated by a blistering application. * The
* Mr. HavoT has introduced some apparatus, whereby the steam from hot
water may be applied to the abdomen for en hour together, and which is
likely to prove of greet service in cases of enteritis in particular, aa well as
in inBammation of the chest. — Felerinarian, vol. xii. p. 198. ; Fel. Med. An.
M
163
DISEASES OF TUB BORSE.
legs must he Icrpt w-arm by flannel hnndaf^ usisted, if nnn-
BBiy, by rubbing in a stimulaiing linimenl. composed of oil iU)(i
Bpiriis of turpentine. During tiie continuance of pain the home
will, of couree, take no food, nor is any desirable, lie will mou,
probably be disposed to drink, of which circunutance advanu^
shouki be taken, by ofTering him oatmeal gruel, or linseed Xat,
OS often as lie will take il.
If relief be not obtained in tiie course of six hours, our pro-
gnosis will bo unfavourable, particularly if, on again reoortiiiu
to bleeding, we find the blood very dark and thick, and witu
difficulty obtained.
A second, and even a third bleeding, should be tried, thougli
in less quantity tluin nt first. If the pain ceases, or greatly dimi-
nislies, the pulse becoming more distinct and moderate, we may
then augur s favourable result, which opinion will be greatly
strengthened by the bowels becoming gradually relaxed. Jf a
favourable result should attend, great caution is neceasarj' for
some little time n« to the diet, and wit food should bo given hr
•evvral dayn.
Wlii-n d«ilh occur*, wc find on cxnmi nation the mu'cular coal,
particularly of the large intestines, (juile blurk from infli-immaliaai
and tli« other coaiit likewise involved in n «tond«ry degree.^
E0.3
I^arrhaa.— DysttUery, Mollm Greaif,
[Inflammalion of tho niucou« coat of the intestines has been
eon*idered as of two kinds, which have been clistiiiguisbed as
Dinrr/uta and DysfnU-ri/ ; the former »up|m»c<l to affect morepir-
liciilarly tlie snuill, the latter the large intestine*.
This distinction, however, can rarely be applied to the horso;
for we find that when a Iiorsc dies from snperinirg.^lion, the large
inte«lini-« are inflamed a» much a* the small. Hie two discsHi,
however, arc ofu-n confounded together. — Ed.]
Ditirrhaia.
['Ilic principol symptom of liiarrhera is ftvquent evacuation
of the fwces in a liquid state. This may simply arise from irri-
laliim of the mucous and muscular coata ; tltcre may be no actual
inflammation, and but little constitutional disturbance ; but if Oh
hoi-Hi; is worked in this state, or improperly treated. inllanimatMa
will quickly supervene, and llic 6ytnptoni& become greatly aggn-
vated.
Inilammation of the mucous membrane may, however, occur
from the beginning, and then (he pulse is exceedingly quick
anil weak, the extremities cold, and lumps of slimy mucw
mingled with ihc faxee, which are somelimct dark, uflett»iM
and tinged with blood. fl
DISEASES OF THE BOWELB. 163
The causes of diarrhoea are, over-exertion, exposure to cold,
drinking very freely of cold water, and, still more frequently, an
over-dose of physic. Horses with short ribs and light carcasses,
usually called washy horses, are predisposed to this disease, and
ID them anything which disturbs the system generally is almost
sore to affect the bowels. Some years since, when it was the
custom to administer eight and ten drachms of aloes as a common
porgative, superpurgation was extremely frequent, and hundreds
of horses died in physic, as it was termed.
T^taimaU. — If purgation is the only symptom, and ther« is
no active inflammation present, the mischief is readily stopped
by the administration of the following medicine, in thick gruel
made from wheat flour : —
Powdered opium 1 dr.
Powdered catechu -2 dr.
Prepared chalk 1 oz.
Even if inflammation is present, we had better administer the
same medicine, either in gruel or in boiled starch, and repeat it
every four hours until the purging ceases; half an ounce of pow-
dered gum arabic may be added to the medicine, or after a while
substituted for the catechu. The body should be kept warm
by plenty of clothing, and the legs encased in flannel bandages.
The abdomen should be fomented with warm water, or sheep-
skins applied, as in enteritis. Gruel, starch, or arrow-root should
be administered frequently ; and if there is any Rppetite, a little
sweet hay should be given, but bran avoided. Bleeding in this
disease is rarely prudenL — Ed.]
Dtfientery, Molten Grease.
[The mucous coat of the bowels is liable to another disease,
which, though more frequently existing as a symptom of other
inflammations, such as that of the lungs and the liver, or of in-
fluenza, yet sometimes appears as an independent disease.
The Symptoms are, — costiveness, the fseces being small and
buttony, and encased in mucus, with large flakes and lumps of
this diseased secretion amongst the dung. There is no active
pain present, but a dull heavy appearance, quick pulse, very hot
mouth, and other febrile symptoms ; and when the hand is passed
up the rectum, it is found much hotter than common.
The mucous membrane of the alimentary canal is evidently
affected. In diarrhcea the muscular coat of the intestines is af.
lected, as well aa the mucous, and there is consequently increased
peristaltic action. In dysentery, the mucous coat only is affected,
though not in the same manner as in diarrhoea. It is in a highly
febrile, rather than in an inflammatory stage ; but its action is
M 2
1«4
IBRA8E8 OP
not increased, aliliough greatly deranged. Tl>e appetite is
greatly diminUhed, if not totallygone, and tliedtseaae is attended
with much danger.
The TreatMrnt must consist in bleeding largely, if the pulse
ht strong and full, and moderately if weak: back-raking and
lltcfre^jiicnt ailmiiiiuration of copious injections ; oilv purgativn
itwderiiu-ly ri<iH\-ited, till ailciided vriih a proper eHect, taking
care thilt thv linsec^l oil does not nl together exceed three or four
pint* : two or three drachms of nilrc may be given with the oil.
taking care not to exceed two ounee« allozcthor; and four
dmchmt of cream of UrUir ituiy hI«o be added. Plenty of
liiULfil li-A, or thin griic), should Ik> given, and bran nuishesand
carrots in llie winter, or (arc* nod clover in the »uminer, should
be allowed; but when the home eats pretty fr^-lyof gri-eji food,
considerably lew <A\ will be rr<]uired. — En.]
CHAP. XXXIV.
COUt. — nilPTtIRE or the stomach AKD IKTrjiTIKF.8. — CAt-
CULI IN THE UUWELS. — STUASGULATION OF THG INTESTINES.
— CKIB-UITIMO.
Colic, Fret, or Gripes.
[Tberk lias been much difPerettce of opinion as to the nature and
euiM of (he alfeciioiw re<-ogn)sed under the above nsntes ; some
Cuniiidi-riiig them ax one disease, otherd »e|Mralii)g them into nu-
merous diviiioiiH. Hut without eutei-jti^ into (Ik-sc diapuiN, or
making more distinctions than are absolutely necessary, 1 con-
sider tiiere are three varieties of ihe disease, which it is import-
ant to distinguish, — spasmodic colic, llatuleni colic, and colic
ariting from the ohsiruciion of the food.
The Sywt/rfnwi* of the first and second variety arc very similar.
The horsi- is very uneasy, paws his litter, looks round to his
(tank*, sometimes endeavours to kick his belly, gathers up Im
hind legs, and tails down railicr suddenly, rolls upon his hack,
xiiddenty gets up again, and appears in extreme [win. The pulse
is in its natural stale, and the inner surface of lh<^ eyelids is not
unusuallvrcd. 'Die disorder comes on suddenly, t)>eatiimal being
prcvio»i»[y in good health. The liorsc is sometimes costive, bin
not often, and in Komc caj*es the dung is rather loose.
In flatulent colic there is a considerable distention of the ab-
domen, from the proiluclion of gas in the intestines, whicli, in
spasmodic colic, is not found to exist. In the former the large in-
tpsiines and ll>e stonmcli * are tmtalty the erat of disease ; in the
latter, its situniion is more frequently confined to llie aniall intes-
tines.
The symptoms of tliese cUseases arc subject to great variety as
to tlicir severity, l»eing sometimes so ^iglil as to dtjappcar
witliout any trraiment, and at other times so violent as to render
the )>orse almost frantic. I was called to a horse some time
since, that had been taken with the fret during the night; and
before I reached itie stable he had, in the violence of hia sirugf^lM,
knockt-d out several of his front teeth, and disfigured hiiiu>t-lf
dreadfully, his eyes being neatly closed from the clioct of the
brtiiscs.
Flatulent colic is produced by the distention of (he intestines
from ga*; it is accordingly very frequent in the sammer season
Willi Fiorecs that are fed on green food, and it may also be pro-
duced by the indigestion of any description of food. It is pro-
bably the most frequent varietv.
Ttte pnin of spasmodic colic is immediately caused by tlw
vtoleiU contraction of llie muscular coat of the intestines, just as
the i[)a«mo<)ic contraction of an external muscle produces cramp.
It is frequently occasioned by a draii)>ht of cold water, parti-
cularly if it be of a hard quality, having sulphate of lime in il.
It may alto be produced by univhulcsomo food, and any thing
that disorders the stomach or inlcslines.
Some Imrses are particularly liable to colic; and in tliem it is
often produced by causes that would have no elTect with other
Imi-kii. 'l'h\» predisposition generally increase* as the animals
^t older, and in them the disease usually proves fatal at last.
'lliat vtiriety of colic produced by the obrtniction of food is
chamcterited by symptoms more moderate than the other
viirietie*, though they are longer conliiuied and usually nioicob*
ktinate. The horse lii.'« down, but does not rise again quickly,
nor struggle 90 violently ; and the pain is more continued than
iti the varietii^ Ix^orc mcntionait.
The symptoms are more like inflummatlon of the lioweK but
dit*rc ia little or no increase of puW. There may or may not
be cosliveiiess, according to the previous nature of ihv food.
'I'realmait. — Our beat plan, in the fmt pliu;e, ia to administer
a powerful antispasmodic A great number of medicinea are re-
commended for this disease, and most of tliem are elTecCual in
most cases. It is, however, desirable to give the preference to
those not only most effectual, but leiui likely to prove injurious
sbould inflammation aupervene. If no medicines are at hand,
* Id oac fbtuJ ohk In wliicli I triui rci[ucaIeJ to CKiiminf llic bixlj', I found
■he ■tomuch ilittuiJvil witli pii lo two or llirec tlinoi its onllnnry hizc. Tlic
bbrae ImiI licei) taken ill ou a Joumvy, and Jicil shortly niter rtnching the
•t^ile.— En.
>l 3
d
WS DISEASES OF TBE HOtUE. V
or cat! be quickly procured, the rollowhig will frcqiictttlv be
found effectual ; — a quarter of a pint of gin, a lea-spoonful of
powdered ginger, ancf a pint of n-arm beer. 'IIiih doiueBtlc
remedy is, ttowever, by no means ao BUecessful u many others.
f^pirit of turpentine, in doses of four ounces, ts recommended
at the Veterinary College. It is a povrerful remedy, boi liable
to produce inflammation : il should always be given with linfcvd
or olive oil, otherwise it is likely to make dtc mouth and itiro&l
sore.
Some practitioners administer an ounce of hart&boni, and
the same quantity of tlneture of myrrh, with a pint of warm
water. This is very i-ffectniil, but I have found the hartshorn
inflame l)>c nioutli uiul throat very much; and il ii the more
apt to do BO in conteqiiencc of the <lts inclination lo swallow m
fre<iitently evinced in the complaint. Tlte mttdiciiic is thus 4e-
taine<l in the throat, and the spirituous )>oriion of it sc|)aratiiig
from the wiiii^r, sadly excori;it« the part-* ; and some of it nerbtpi
niny even enter the windpipe, and produce dreadful and intal iii-
flninmation.
0|Mum, in some form or other, aflords us t)ie most eilecloiJ
'and tlie tuifott n-nu-tly in this di*ea.«e. In tlie former editions of
this work the fuliowitig formula is given, aJid will lie found ge*
iterally sucoeuful : —
I AniniifHe Ctirminatitx TVitcfvnr.
No. I.
Tuilwjr opium 1 01.
I Clove*) bruised .» 2 ox.
Ginger, ditto i) ox.
^^ Brandy, rum, or gin I quarL
^^ No. a.
Turkeyopium, cloves, and ginger,ofcftcli ... I oz.
{ Tlic best old brandy, rum, or gin 1 quart.
Lei them \k digested together in a well-oorked bottle, em!
shaken several times a dav for three or four weeks. Il is then
lo be strained through blotting paper, and is flt for use. The
medium dooe is two ounces, which may be given in a little m'M
ale, or an infusion of some aromatic herb, such as peppermint,
{lennyroyal, camomile, Sic. Mr. Brac«-y Clark recommends a
linctui-e made with allspice, bruised, half a pound; brandy, giD,
or rum, two quarts.
WIkii there is much flatulency exhibited, and tlio abdomen
appears dimended with gas, nothing will prove of greater eflicacy
. thaii A full dose of sulphuric cilier, which, if conjoined with
COLIC* FRET, on OBIFES.
167
lure of opium, aii<l aii <>qiia] quanttt)* of tincture of \'a!erian,
or ginger, or allspice, and given with alKiiit (liree Tourths of
a piol of warrD or boiled water, will be found lo aiford often
iiamediale relief wben oilier remediea ba^e been exiiibited
tinsuccesafull)', and more particutarlv if it be a cane of Balulenl
colic Thus, it appears, we liave a great variety of medicines for
this disease^ and it b much better to conjoin several togcllier
llian to ndminiaier one alone : because not only is the compound
dose likely to prove more succesiful, but if it becomes necessary
lo repeat it several limes, it is less likely to produce inflammaiion
than one kind of medicine given in the powerful dose required.
If the borae be not relieved in the course of ten minutes after
tlie exhibition of tlie medicine, it will be desirable to bleed, not
only in order to guard against inflammation, but because blood-
letting is itself a powerful antispasmodic, and often oftbrds itii-
medlate relief.
In tile course of half an hour lo an hour, if relief be not o))-
Liined, it will be desirable to rqicat the medicine; nnd again in
tbe ccMirsc of one or (wo hours afterwards, should tlie symptoms
continue or return ; and unless the bowels nro relaxed it will be
desirable to administer apcricnl medicine with the second or
■bird antispasmodic draui;hl. Throe ounces of Uarbadoes
aloes powdered may be dissolved in hot water, and given with a
[Hnl ot linseed oil ; adding to or subtracting from this dose, ac-
cording to tiK strength and condition of (he animal. If relief
be not obtained after the third dose, tbe cose becomes very dan-
gerous, and we must be cautious as lo the further ndminislratioii
of stimulants. The pulse must be watched, and the bleeding re-
[lealed ; and with regard to medicine, it will ho belter lo trust to
opium alone, a drschin of which may bo infused in wnter, and
giTen every two hours. By pursuing this phin of treatnu-nt wc
may often accomplish a cure in the most ibuig^TOUS and pro-
tracted cases. I met with a cnMc some lime since, in which I
found it ncccstiry lo administer ihne ilimfs of llie stimulating
aotis)jasmodic before ndvi»i.-d, to bli-eii largely twice, to give re-
peate«l injections, to foment the abdomen, and aflerwiini* lo ad-
minister (he above dose of opium every iwo hours. By which
peiwcring, yet cautious method, the Mymptoiiu were eventually
removed, and the horse ri-covered.
Unless the horit»^ recover from llie first dose, injections of
warm water bimI mIi shonlil be fr»-qiifnily and copiously admi-
nistered; and if inllammutioii be threatened, tlie iibdonien should
be fomented and mimulnti-d, and indeed tho same means used
s$ for inflammation of the bowels.
When a horse i* attacked with the colic, many persons obati-
nately prevent him from lying down, under an ich-a thai rolling
Eibout is likely to causv a twiiting of (lie inleitines. This, how*
~ M 4
168
DISEASKS OF THK HOME.
cvrr, is not tlte &ct, and ii is conirftry to nnttirot and ihcrrrurr
iiijiirioiu H> prevail a horse frtmi K'iiijr clnu-n ; for lie ilnTcbv ob*
luitm M>iitR rcl'K-r, aikI oI' counti.* tk-livts iIh- ptnilioii t-astnt U
liiiiiMrir.
Ill the tliird npecin ofctriic^ via. llmt arising rrom obstniciion
of lite food, ihe irealment must be dUTerenl rroiti itiat liHurv rv
comii)endtil. Iniiead of giving vrry iwwerrul stimtiliiiiia nl first,
we ^Itould administer a purgative, with a inoderale imttjtpiumodic.
Six dracliniH of Tlartutdoc-s aloes in a waier^' infiiMon, with tn
ounce of liiiclure of o|iiiini and four dnu-hms of stngcr, Khwid
l>e given at once. I'he tiorse should be bled, ana in about w
hours afWrward* from hatf an ounce to an ounce of tincture of
ojiiutn and one dnichm of ginger Bhould be given, with a lulT
pint of linseed oil| which may be repeated every two or ihnx
liour», untit the bourels arc relaxed or the pain is removed
Copious injections should be ad ministered every two hours, and
other measures employed toward off inllammaiion. Relief b
seldom obtained in these cases in le«s than twelve bours.
At the pain crates, the horse usually evinces a disposition ftr
food; but the only kind that should be allowctt, lor the first
Wvlvi- or tvrontv-four hours, is bran maf^hes, to as to injure a
relaxed sinte ot the bowels and to prevent the irritation lliat
would he likely to follow the giving liani dry food in the eorc
slate in whicli the bowels arc after an atlacK of colic Plenty
of warm water should bo given tlie animal to drink, both during
the attack and aftei'wards.
When a hoi-se dies from the colic, which ta rarely ilie case
■ when judicious titaiment is employed, we generally find tlie ap-
pearance of intense inflainmalion, but confined to some particular
portion of the inti-stines, and not generally dilfu$e<l, Al this
spot tliere is usually an effusion of blood from the surface of the
mucous coat, an well as betwiM-n the coots; and often spots of
ecehymonis in different places.* SometiuK-s there is considerable
stricture of the InliKtines, so as to obstruct thv passage, 'llie
diseMc is generally found confined to llie small intestines. — Ed.]
Intimately connected with the colic are the following discosei.
[RupbtrtM oflh< Stomach and Botc^
Are sometime* the effect of colic, or more frequently lIic can
symptoms. A rupture of the coats of
ihat ■nduci.'s its
• Wc rarclv hav* an op|Kimiaity of wiiacmiiig the morbid «fr«ct of c^c
until InHaminiilinn hu cxijiioI lullirittnlly to ilcttrnt' life ; biii, in ■ case llut
Gftinc uniicr my uUviiiiuti numu lime xiiice, a honw wiui ottsckcii with oolk
aiid ntovtmi, but ilio>t in u Juj or too of another diamiv. Thtrc wiw no
Intlnmination of ili« liniiirU, hut n ran number of smalt ii|>(ii> of Fci'liymoMS
boiwoen ibo inusculof and |>criionc«l coat*.
STOttKK IN TUE IKTESTINEE.
169
W-:
slomtich u more frcfiticnt ihati that of th« intestines. It ia nro-
ducfc) by overlowlinjT ihi« vitcus wiili indigestible food, sucli nx
dry biaii, or tlir inilU of wbcjit and liarley. In two cams tliat
occurre<l to niywlf not timg ninco one was a millci-'s borse. and
biid fed ravi-nounly in ihi- niorriltig from dry bran, was taken iU
on a jotiriH'y witb tb<- fru-i, jw »as »up|Kisi'd, came home, and
died an Iwiir or two aficrwur(l». When 1 saw him he vrea
aiiting on bin Imuiicltes, and vomiting profusely from his tioi^triU
a tliiiu, the sour smt^ll of whirb lUsiirtKl me at once that it pro-
cei^led from tW stomach. There was found a riipturp exicnuin^;
tbroijjfliout a j^rcat portion of the largL- cinvuture of thi- stomach,
and tbroiigh wliieb an tmmenae qiiiintity of undigc«tc<l bran hnd
escaped into the cavity of iho altdomen. In the •lomncli of tbt;
jther bor»e, there was found a rupture, though not so exiensive
as the otlier, throagh which a portion of the food bml escaped ;
but the greater part still remained in tlie stomacti, and con*
sisted of a prodigious mass of bay. corn, and wheat hulls.
Tbere are beveral cases on record of rupture of the inteMliiCK,
particularly of the colon. The last case thai occurred under my
own obiervslioQ was a rent of the ileum, at that portion to wliicrb
the mesentery is attached. The rupture extended about nine
inches !n length, and the mesentery was split with it for a, cnn-
etderable extent into two membranes, ko as to prevent ibc fijod
m getting inlo the abdominal cavity,
A symptom that usually attends the rupture of ttie bowels, or
the stomach, is the spasmodic action of tlie muscles of the tuil.^
3
r
IStoitfS in the Intestintf
Are not unfi'e()ucnily foimd in homes: they are usually dis-
covered in iIm; large guts; but somctimcii, though rarely, in
the stomach. Tliey are generally found to consist of stony and
earthy particles mixed with the fowl, and having some bard
object, such as a jiebble or nail licad, in its centre. These
calculous concretions arc more fifqueiii wlih millers' horses
than with otlters, which ia owing to the fact of their being fed
extensively on bran. Numerous uitnule {larliclcx of milUldne
adltcre to tlie bran, and having, perhaps, some accidental
nucleus, as before stated, thcv gradually collect around it, the
food assisting in the formation. The shape of these calculi
de[>ende ven,' much on the seat of their aliode ; one in my pos-
session, taken from the stomach, is extremely irregular, and
consists of stony substance within, and a softer spongj' surface
externally, formed chiefly by the food. 'I'he snrfiice, thotigb
irregular, like a mulberry, is covertxl by a black coat tiuoolhly
poliabcd.
i
170
DTSEABEB OF THE HORSE.
Another calculus in my posseeuon is as rmind as a crickft
' bnll* and weiglis upw-ards of six pounds. It wss found in tlw
rvolon, nnd had acquired its globular form from rollinif about in
thit liirge intestine. The Itoi-so Itad belonged to n miller, and
li»d beti) accustomed to live niosllj' on bran ; he had fur se^-cnl
years l>eeii subject to tlie fret, but had generally relieved himwlf
by rollins about. TIicsl' symptoms were no doubt produced bv
tl»e calculus becoming wcdf{«l in the smaller ports of the coloiii
and which, bv ilio slru;;;!;les of the animal, a^in became dis>
i>laced, and then relief wu« iifforded. At lenjflh it was so firmlr
impacted tlint it could not l>e moved. A lota! stoppage took
place, and nothing pushed by the rectum for«cveral days, during
uhicli the animal vvinn**) much pain, lying down nnd rolling;
but the position in which )h> up|M'ared most reltevi'd wok tliat of
sitting on his Iwuncltc*. From tliese vanoiu symptomsi I fell
conrineed that a stone wiu tlw cauw ; and the animal being dc
fitroye<l, llic large cntcuhis was found firmly impacted in (lii;
wcond cnrralure of the colon, whence it could g«-t nrillxT biwk-
wards nor fbrwayd«. On dividing it with n saw, a pebble ww
found to be its nucleuA, and it consisted of a vast number of
rongli and smooth layers alternately arranged, the external uiie
l>eing rougli.
In 9ome instances, a vant number of stony substances have
been found loose in tlie intestines, their weight, though not tlieir
sixe, preventing thetr poastiig onwards.
Some tiortes haw a depraved appetite, and take great (juan-
tilies of earth when they have llic opporlunity, which cvrtniiily
must conduce greatly to the formation of these Goncretiotu.^£t>.J
Slranfftilntioti of the Itoirrh.
[On the ititpeclion of tlie bodies of horses that are supposed to
die from colic, we sometimes find tlie small intealiiies strau-
gulaled by being formed into a knot, so as to produce the inost
intense pain, and a complete interruption to alt passage. Some-
times a most perfect knot is formed liv one portion of the intcs-
tine l>eiiig insinuated between a sort of nooee formed by anotlier
[kortion. Another time we find that a noose is formed by a
slip of the mesentery; n-bich, by some means, lias got separated
from the rest.
Another variety is called intro-susception. and consists of one
portion of the intestine insinuating itself within die cavity of
another. Sometimes the stricture is caused by a Guty tumour
attached to tlie mesentery, or an enlargement of the mesenteric
gjand ; as related by Mr, W. Pereivall m the I'tteriitarum, vol. u
p..-)96.
Anotlier variety is a strangulation from simple twisting of the
gut; as sliown by Mr. C. I'crciral, feterinariaH, vol. i. p.i)3&
STRAKCULATtOK OP THE BOWEt^
171
Besid>» these, there may be a stricture without any iwining
or eiitangletnent : thU generally occurs in the duodeiiiiin.
No. 1. represents llie first variety of siranf;ulaiion of one or
two portJMU of llie ileum, being insinuated into a noose formal
l>y another |>ortion. It occurred to the Editor of this work,
aiKl is takeii from tlie Veterinarian, vol. vi. p. 1*2.
[<K«k !• l»*mfmtatitm nflAr untf Iml'tl'fut. Na'J. Stna^tUitim iff flu Httttn.
No. 2. n-prownB iIk* M>cond variety. It is a tintngulntion of
rectum; aiid wa* relaltrd by Mr. Fuller in the leterinaritm,
>I.Ti. p. 256.
No. 3. in a atae, related by Mr. Rull, of strangulation of both
N«b 9. Stn^pttintnit tffUt tlrum oid CiAiii,
n, Tha ilnim.
h PralnniiHi oT lh« itcnm.
e, Ligamcntiiut batiil.
d, 'tliir cxciim.
*, Commcncviiicnl orihe mIoii.
173
DISEASES OF THE HOBS&
ilic ilcuiii fitid tlic ciEcum hy a Iigantenious haiid. Mr. Bull
ElBiM tliaC l)p had relieved the mare frum abdominal paint
several tiiiK-s before llie ca»e proved fatal. ( l^elerrinarian, vol, ix.
f. 42.) This, 1 think, is the most frequent kind of strangulation:
luivv nl^-((■lf met with Ec\'eriil instances.
No. 4. til a singular case related bv Mr. Cupias. — Ftttrinariaii,
vol ix. p. 5(i2.
No. 1> Miit-(iii«t)i</aii in Ms Jtartt.
'lliii fig. icprvM'Kt* Ihii cnciiin cut open, aiiil the lnlu*-*u«ecpllun ljiii|[ vilhin IL
A A. Tliu liiiui-tiiici'|>llcin.
B. A potlioii of the ileum.
C, 'llie ohuU coll.
D D, Small portiont of i1i» mmMitRf
nnil hnf of (he tncona.
E> Til* •)!« t of ilii' cHum.
P P, The iiiirriar of llic cmim.
I, Tli« iiimour.
U S. Tlie niiMiiurjr.
S. The nincntwrie rard
No. a. is a case related by Mr. W. Pcreivall. — Vi^erinarian,
vol. i. p. .12(i.
We cannot tell with certainly that
strangulation has Inkcn place; but wc
may expect *uch w be tlic ease, when
we find thai sympiimis of colic conti-
nue without rculi*-^i^l[l til iipitc of all Ko^j,
our trctttincnt. TIr- pul»e in tlK-sc
/cases ts nut quick at firtt, nor for
8c^i?ral flours aftvruartU; but the pain continues to increase,
and at length inflammation supervenes, and llio horse continues
in the greatest ngoiiy for ten or twelve hours, when the inten-
sity of the pnin beems to disappear, but iht; animal dies a few
boars afterwards.
It is a disputed subjecL whether intervaj^nation is more fre-
quently llir consetiucncr of the spasmodic acdon and comnvotion
of the bowels in eulic, or otherwise the twisting of the intestttws
occurs previously, nnd i« ii*elf liie cause of even tlte esrlievt
^'mptotns tliat arc iuanifi>nie<l. Wc have no means of demon-
CRIB-BITINO. 173
strating whtcti theory is correct; but I am inclined to consider
that although inter vaginat ion may be sometimes the effect of
colic, it more frequently arises from one gut getting accidentally
entangled in the other when in an empty state, and producing
for some time no inconvenience, until food enters and distends
it, and is prevented passing onwards by the knot. This, at any
rate, must be the case whenever the noose is formed by adven-
titious substance, or by a portion of the mesentery ; which often
exhibits the appearance of having been formed for a length of
time.
Intro-susception is more likely to be of recent origin, pro-
duced probably by the spasmodic action of the bowels in colic ;
and so likewise when it is simply a case of twisting of the
mtestines. It appears that in the greater number of instances
on record, the ileum is the gut most frequently entangled;
which may be accounted for by the &ct of this intestine being
less confined than any other. Next to tlie ileum is the rectum ;
and the duodenum is most liable to stricture.
The^TVeatmmt. — It is impossible to ascertain positively the
existence of entanglement of the bowels ; and if we could do so,
in the majority of cases our treatment would be useless. Where,
however, we have reason to expect the existence of such morbid
formation, the treatment indicated would be copious venesec-
tion, freqiieot injections of warm water or tobacco smoke, and
strong doses of opium, so as to quiet the system as much as pos-
sible; and to avoid all food and purgative medicines. By
adopting this plan, nature may perhaps right herself, and the
spasms being quieted the gut may be released ; which, in a case
of simple twisting, is indeed very likely to occur. — Ed.}
Crib-bitiTiff.
This, though only a trick or habit which a liorse gets, and
which he may teach another that stands next him, especially
B young horse, may be considered as a disorder, because it
renders him very liable to indigestion and flatulent colic. There
a no doubt that in crib-biting a horse swallows air ; and I have
seen a horse distend his stomach and bowels with it in an enor-
wous degree, and he would theieby often get the flatulent colic,
and sometimes swell himself so that he could scarcely move.
The only convenient method of preventing crib-biting is to put
a leather strap round the neck close to the jaws, which prevents
him from laying hold of the manger : it may impede his feeding,
however, and this must be attended to. A muzzle sometimes
answers the purpose. £There are now muzzles invented that ad-
mit of feeding, and yet prevent the horse opening his mouth
sufficiently to seize the manger with his teeth. In many cases
they prove very useful, thougn in some they altogether fail. — Ed.]
174
niSCASES OF THE HOUI
CHAl*. XXXV.
WORMS.
Worms are most coinmonlv fotnid in the \nvfeh and Rtoniach:
but iheyare somctimea met with also iii almost every part of tlie
body. I have found them in the windpipe, in thp mesenteric
arter}') in an nbBCcss, in ihc eubsuinceof the abdominal muBclea;
and, according to LafoMO, ihev have- been found al«) in the pan-
crealic and snhvcirv duel*. The worms commonly found in the
stomach arc namiil bolU. They are f^nerally attached to the
cuticular or inseimble coal of the stomach; but sometimet
clusters of them are found at lite pylorus, and even io tbe
beginning of the fintt inlMtine, named duodenum. In one cnse
they were w mnntrous in this last xilnalion »s to ob«lruct tlir
puM)!!^ completely, aJid cause the animar* dearh. Botts are
H)M>ri, thick, recldish wonu», surrounded witli short {>ricklc«,
which are arranged in circular bands all over the body. 'I1iey
attach themselves firmly by two hooks, which they appear to
have the power of straightening and retracting, of projecting; and
curvating. Tbey are extremely teiincioua ot life, and difficult
to be expelled from the stomach, except almut the month of Sep-
tember, or when a horse is tirst taken up from grass. At tliis
period they may generally Iw got rid of by brine, or a solution
of common mU and water, in a dose of from four to five ounce
of salt 10 11 quart of water. Tlie horse should \k kqU (iistlng
the night l)efoiv it b given; and alwut five minutes before die
drench widi salt is given, let the horse lie drenched with al>out
a pint of warm milk, sweetened with honey or treacle.
It has been siip]>ooed lliat botls arc not only innoceni, but
even beneficial, from their being so frequently found in the
liorsc's stomach aflcr death, when during tlic annnal's life no in-
convenience was observed to arise from them. That diey axe
sometimes tiijuriousi however, and fatidly so, has been clearly
demons trati-d by several case! diat liave come under my obaerv-
atton. Tliey have been known to ulc^'rate and make boles in
the stomach. Gibson, a most respi-clabic velcrinary autbor,
considen; ihem as sometimes the cause of locked jaw ; and
Mr. Jnmcs Clarke, of Edinburgh, has recorded one case in
which they had made an opening tlirougl) the hone's stomach
into the undo men.
Mr. Urncey Clark, in his Treatise on the Botts of Horse*,
considers lluil there are four species; and lie says, "thatllie
piirenl fly of the (vslrus equi deposits its ova on tlie hairs of
such parts of the lionte as are wiihin the n-ach of his mouth
WOBHS.
l7iS
[note, M xhe shoulders, wUliin the fore le/^ &c; to do
tlic fly H seen lo hold ht-r body upright when preparing
tga : >be reste for a moment on thi> horse, niul fixes it lo
Uuiir hy means of a viscid (;1u(en ; aficr which «hc again
Wt (utd prepares another, until some hundreds arc to de-
Ited. The«e ova, or cgR bottt, form the little j-ellow
Dulea «o commonly observed adhering to ihe hairs of
•n at gmas in the summer." The twtrus hemorrhoidal is,
Informs ui, deposits h«r e^s on the no»e of the horse;
[le die iiKtIiods of the velennus and salutifi'ruK arc not at
It underilood. lliese ova having become halctted are,
rtout accidents, as by the hor^ lieking himself, or nabbing
, carried into the stomoeh, where they instinctively aita(ji
eires to the cultcular portion, very few ever reaching the
or sensible part, — to vrhich we must, in a greAt me«-
ii attribute their innocuous charRcter, To enable thetv
mats to resist the effects of aliini-ntary friction, titey are fur-
bed with two tentaculw, or hooks of exiraordinarj' tenacity,
reen which is aitualcd their mouth, bv which they tuck up
■astric secretions. KnterinjT their abdominal habitation in
umroer, tlie botu soon gain thetr full size, nnd continue
a the horse until the following epring, when, in a tine lively
lening ilieir hold, they arc pa^ed along the inteitcinni cunni
I ejected with the dung, preparator)- to iheir change from
ne into chrysalid^, and from thence into parent Jlies.
||r. Keron obaervet, that "common oil. given in large (luan-
L has sometimes succeeded in d«tachiug botts from the
bch ; and, indeed, it is the onlv remedy that seems to have
^flect in inoking them loose their hold Irom the stomach, on
ount of its having, as may reasonably be suppoM-d, a poisonous
Uty to that insect."
Hie next kind of worm to be described is that named teres
ricus, or round worm. It is found in the small intestines,
ictimes, though seldom, in the stomach. In the loat case
lich I ftiund these worms in the stomach, the horse had been
' subject to flatulent colic, or gripes, of which at last he died,
ncrally tiad an attack of tliiK disorder two or three limes a
I once saw tlci horse labouring under an attack of gripes.
bod taken a dose of the anodyneearminalirc tincture without
relieved. I prescribed four ounces of oil of turpentine,
EcTi cured him tn a short time. I had no suspicion of the
ve being troubled with wormx: hud (hnl circumstnnco been
tvns, and another dose of turpentine givoi), after keeping the
Kb chiefly on bran ma«hes for one dity, niul fasting him one
pi, it is probable, I think, that nil of them would have t>een
ipt ofF. Thvsc worms are while, and from »\\ to ten inches
I7«
7Wre!>«M«ferkiMlor<
no lOMctinia n tfae Bf^^
dw tig^ ofn iaeh io width, aad tnm mat it thne
lenctb. Thef l»ve tmmcne riba or Smet, "—— Vrg Ijikc ik
IwA-wono, md Bdhere lo ibebonreli W one of thnr exmnubt*.
A fitorth kiad of •onn m fitaflrd both in the somD umJ hrgc
ifrtBtiBM : tkcy ue rmtod, Ske tfar tcm, bot titaAr, and dboot
'Ooe or two iodiM to Itoijlii. Tbey hitra been nmed, ban
iMir HTO| the why wmiiii
The fiftb ind Ia« Und of wofWH an mmed aMaride*. TIm;
are fiMmd in the Urgr istntinn: are veiy •Wnder, or like
nerdlesi and about one inch in length. Woni» »inilar to ihoe
Ittfe bem (bund in th« mncntenc artery, and io the windptpb
The 5jB»yflMM of wonns are, a rottgb ttmriag bank ooat; tr-
re|ipilitr,arMaK<itneiacraTii^u|ietite; aDdoAmtbea]ipearaiKe
ofawliite ■hinin;; f ubitancc at incanos; and when ascarWle* are
pnvcnt there la oftcaan itching of thoanui, and a Hhtpmilion (o
rnb the uiL
TImt latter description is. I think, noec iajaiiooa tban anr
other* ; ibi'jr art; oflvn found in iminrRsr numbers, firmly ad-
, bering to the mtieou* coat of the large inlittine^ where ibej
. produce coDMderablc irritation ; and wuru iIk-jt are known to be
I pretent It i* neonnry to be cautioua in the admintatralioii of
r powerful mimulanu or atroiig phytic with a view to their removd,
■a Giul iiiflaniroaiion lia^ in many ca«e«, been thereby prodneed.
Tlie Trtahnmi moat comnionly adoptml lor (he reaioral of
worntB IB to cive one or two dnichtm of calomel, wiih a doee of
physic, or ti>c calomi-l at niglit and a do«c of phytic in ihc
morning. Oilicn preier giving a dracbm of calumol for tlirve
successive nights previous to (lie physic Oil of turpentine hat.
within a few yi-urs, been much used as a remedy fur worms, and
•ppean to b« the most powerful vcmiifagc we art- acqu»in(cd
wiih. I liavc- known it, however, in one instance cause (lie
dealli of the horse, by briiigiiif; on intlamniiiiion of the stonwcli.
'lliis Iwrso, however, had taken a doae of phj-^ic the diiy licfurc,
which was operating at the lime the oil of turpettiine wa« gircn.
In two other horses oil of turpentine caused alnrraing aymptonut
but they soon gat well again. Mr. B. Clark save four ounces
of oil of turpentine to a horse titai was intended for the doj^
and which appeared to have worms. He ssvs it caused con-
siderable uneasiness, the horse appearing as if he were gripeiL
The next morning only two or three worms were voided ; and n»
no other effect was observed at tltc end of forty-eight Itours, he
was destroyed. Living worms, he says, were found both iu
the large and small intestines, and the mucous surface of tlie
slonuich waa found inflamed, and iu some parts blistered; an
VURMtl.
177
ap[>eiirattce lie never Ix-foro met with. Tliwf are tlu" only cases
ihat haw come within my knowloljje in wliicrh oil uf tiit'))<-ntiite
hftn (lotie mi^hief; but, on the other Uiind, I hitve »t:cn, and
have lieen int<>riiK-<l uf a prent numlter of cit»cM, in whicli il liiis
proved an efficacioiii nrtnedy for vrorm*. It luia been rrccjiu-ntly
given in a Aom of 4 07. rU a reniwiy for Ow flatulent colic, or
jrripea; and I have knowti il given even in a dote of H ox. without
doing any injury. Itt efficacy, a* a vermiftijje, wa» firit com-
municated lo me by n metlkal ^■ntleman of llridport, who had
S;iven it him^tir, and ha<l known il employed by Homo furriert in
m neigliboiiilxxKl with the moitl Mrikin]^ effect. Hii method
was to give the home l)ie day before about ^ dracUnis of aloe«,
in order to relax the bowels a tittle. He waa kept fasting during
tli« night, and early in the morning look 4 oz. of oil of turpen-
tine in a pint of gruel. Ho was kept faaiing for two or three
hours afterwards, and then fed sparingly with bran mashea and
warm water during the day. This previous fasting appears to
tne necessarv lo the success of the medicines; for, in tnia case,
il seems probable that some part of the turpentine is absorbed
from the empty stomach and bowels, eo llist the worms are
attacked both in the bowels and through the medium of the
blood. The celebrated rcmody of M. Chabert for worms is
said lo consist principally of empyreumatic animal oil. A mix-
ture of olive oil. tar, and oil of turpentine has been found ad-
vania^^us in the rot in sheep; a tiiseasc occasioned by worms
in the liver, nAtaedJitikes.
From iIm? experiments of Profi^ssors Tlcdcmann and Gmelin,
lately published, it apjiears probable that thi* mixture, whicJi is
to be given after a niiiht's fasting, is absorbed from the emply
stomach and bowels, and conveyed innnediately to the ducts of
the liver, where il quickly destroys the fluk<'s. It is not un-
likely. I think, that a similar mixture would be found a good
TCfmifuge in horses.
[Thv great error in the exhibition of vermifuge medicine is
in not continuing its use fur a suflicient length of lime. When
we consider the vast amount of surface affbnUii by th*^ intestines,
and thnt worms may be attacliod to a groat portion uf it. It may
readily be conci-ived that a few doses of medicine must com-
pletely fail in eradicating the greater portion of them. Another
error consists in not sufEciently attending to the reKtorntion of
the coaU of the inte»tin<-s and the system generally to u healthy
■talc; and thus, though some worms may he removed, yet the
■ysieni is lefl in a favoumblc state for the production of more.
The following mediciiH-it have been foun<l by the Kditor ex-
ceedingly useful, not only in dcittroying the worms, but in re-
storing the condition of the iinimn) : — '
s
178
DISEASU OP THE HOHSE.
White ancnie 5 to Sgr.
Cantlianttcs, finelj powderad .» 6 to 10 gr.
Sulphate of iron, ditto I to 2 dr.
Pimcoto or ^iii^-r. |>owd«T«d 1 fir.
IVtariMd aiitiiiiotiy I dr.
Thia powder should be mixed togetltcr, and then carefuilv
mingled with a Imiidrul of bran, to which it will adhere, whicli
should be then mixed with a feed of com. and given every
evening Ibr the space o( a rorinighi or tlire«> weeks. A dose of
ph^rsic mav be given after two thirds of the medicine baa be«n
administered ; which, as soon as It acts, slwuld be Toltowed b^ (lie
remainder. Linseed oil le, perhaps, the best purgative in such
esses. — Ei>.]
CHAP. XXXVL
DISEASES OF TBC LtVER.
I
Tbu omn is not so often diseased in the hors« as in the hntnan
body. I have, however, in examining Itorscs after death, »ee«
it diseased in a considerable degree. From ihc contparativc
simplicity of its structure, and lire abscwc of a gall-bladder, It i»
seldom affected with jaundice. The Uvcr itself| Iwwever, is
Boraelime« found condensed, thickened, or liardcned ; but more
fretjuently distended, ten<lcr, and easily broken. So Irnder,
or rotten, as it is commonly termed, does it become, that it
sometimes hursts, or » niplnrc^l, and the horse dies by an
efTuftion of blood into the cavity of the abdomen.
[Diseaseft of the liver are much more frequent in tlie summer
than in the winter, and particularly in very Itot weather. At
thia season, inflammation of the liver has oflen been connected
will) the epidemic inl1ii>.-n/.a, which it lias rendered far mort
obttinate and daii^iTixis.
The <yuiM.-a of ilii-»f diieaxe* are, i:i addition to the predis-
pmiiion of the itnimal to have the liver aiTccted in preference to
other parui, a ri^un<)aiicy of blood in tlie system, by which loo
much bluocl is ient to the liver ; too nutritious feeding ; want of
cxcrcito ; over-4>xeriiun when tin- horse is in this unfit state ; and
long eonliiuiance of un unhealthy slate of tlic excretions, and
want of pro|>er physic'.
Tlie di.ieascH of ilie liver in tlio liorw are, perhaps, more
obaeure than those of any other {Niru It is here tliat we requin;
in u peculiar manner the asHistanee of tlie patient to tell tia the
nature atHl precise seat of pain, logetlicr with other feelings
BOUSBi OP THK Lirn.
anri syiiiploint, fur want o( knowing wliicli tlie dtMMUC is sur-
rounded witli difficulty nnd ubscurity. Diseases uC tlie livvr not
oiilv exikt M primnrv nnd iiide[)eiident atTcctiotiK, hut ihvy orv
atill raore frequeiilly connected with other CQinplniiits, tlic
symptoms of whieli are thereby rendered more obscure, and lliu
cases far more dangerous. The liter is subject to inflanininiion
of two kinds, acute and chronic.
The M^mpttimt of the former, at first, are mild, us well as
obscure, and some days usually transpire before any tr<^t*
ment is put in practice. The symptoms, however, toon
afterwards become iiilcnBo, the mouth feels hot, the extn-mitiea
cold, the mtmbranc of the eyelids is higlily injected, and
often appears of a deep orange colour. At first the pube
is not so rapid as the other symptoms are severe; but it gra-
dually increases, becoming scvtiiiy or eighty in a minute^ and
is often soft and vacillating. TIh- tiorsc refuses his food, looks
round at his sides, lii« down and gets up frequently. The
n-KpifHiion is somewhat di»turbc<l; but this symptom cannot
be ik-peiided on, for somelinim it is tranquil, at others greatly
•eccJerBtcd; there is usuully a tenderne» evinced on pressing
tboside*, panicularly the right side, but can* must be taken to
distinguish tliis from tin; usual flinching evinced when the skin
is pre»«'d agatntt die Ijorders of the rilw. The fieees are tiard,
evaeuaicd in small quantities, frequently of a diirk colour, and
sometime* covered with mucus. Occusioiuilly they ar<: fa-tid,
and sometimes there is diarrhcea. In son>e cases tliere is a
stilTnesft in moving, particularly of lite liind quarters.
The Treatment must not be so active as that in pneumonia,
and bleeding, in particular, must be cautious and moderate; for
very severe blooclleltings are prejudicial in this disease. From
three to five quarts of blood may be taken, according to the
sixe and condition of the animal, and again when the pulse
apjiean to indicate its repel it ion. Mr. Cupiss, who has written
a very ui«eful es^y on lite diseases of the liver *, recommends
the tullowing medicine: — Aloes 1 lo 2 drs., and carbonate
of poiash sJrs., dissolved in hot water, and then well agitated
with 1*2 ounces of castor or linsLvd oil; to be repeiited every
twelve lioiirs until the bowels arc moderiUeiy relieved, bock-
raking nnd clyslering Ix-iug likewise practiced. This efK-ct ob-
tained, he advises the following to be adminixlered t.-very twenty-
four hours ; — carbuimte of potash S drs., powdered resin G drs.,
with linircd nH-al sufficient to suspend the resin in wunn
water. 'I1ie xmIcs and atidoinen should be extensively bli»tei^-d,
and frrvhitheepMkin.i npplied over the body. Although the plan
pursued by Mr. Cupids is, in many rcsjK-cls, very judicious, it
Abilr^ei rfl/ie- )VI, Mnl- jUtocialian, page 31. let. vol. xn.
V 2
180 DISEASES or tBE HOIUE.
mav, I (liink, be improved bv the use of olotiiel aiid opium,
whicii medicines will be fou»(f particularly xtaeUii in Pie tblW-
itig disease-. TItc di»es niay be one dracbm lo oite and a half
of ttvc former, and one lo two scrupli'« of ibc latter. Mr.
S. Brown, in an excellent essay on tlw subject, reconimendi,
wlien there arc ^vmptonisof pain, linclurc of opium in moderaic
doM'M, wiili an alkali and linseed oil, in order to allay the irri-
tation of (he mucous coat of the bowel*; after winch he »i-
niiiii«ter< calomel and opium, two thirds of the former, and
one of the latter ; the latter to retain llic former in tlie system.
When pwrgins is prew-nt, a pn-aler quantity of opium shoaldbe
given. In the Inlter stage*, wlwn jjreat tieliilily exi^ta, he giv«
tonics and stimulants, with small doses of uitre and tartarual
anliniony.
Chrvnie infiamwatiott of the Kvar may either follow or pre-
cede an acute attack, or it may exist independent of it. The
sytiiptoms tat; — pnlse ioiinrwhat nuickened, loss of appetili%
hid»-bound, nnd siaring coat, and dult and dispirited appearance.
The fieces haid, and of a pale colour. The treatment luiul
be similar in its nature to that recommended for the «^
attack, the dose, however, being more moderate. Bleeding ■
be avoided in the majority of cases, unless, indeed, the symptoms
urgently demand it.
Mr. Cupiss observes, " In post-mortem examinations, the
liver is sometimes found lo l>e atlaclH-d 10 the stirmtinding
parts, and is generally inierg|)erse<l more or less thickly wila
white scirrhous patches. After actiie lie|>atitis, 1 have (bund
the liver quite yellow, and weak in its tiodurc."
Mr. Cupiss (k'scribes three other aflcciioiis of the liver,
which lie tern)s tmnithtral enliiry^mrnt, <}i-caifnl structure, and («-
liriiltlii/ trcreliiiii; and, without iU-kiiowlt.'dj;ing the entirecorrect-
■lexs of his ilivixionii, believing that decayed structure U very fre-
fjuenlly tlie consequence of an inflammatory action, yet, as hts
observations are full of nraciical utility, we cannot do better
tlian quote them at length ; —
" Unnatural enlargement of the liver sometimes take* place.
It is Hwullcn to two or ihi-ee limes its natural siice. It prenentt
an apjK'snince of general congestion ; it becomes gradually filled
witll a black bloody fluiil. The progress of this variety of liver
disMM is uncertain, generally slow, and almost invariably tatol."
Tlic symptoms arc, an enlarged and tense abdomen; the
bowels Homct!m<.-s constipated, at other times relaxed ; there is
■omMimeM coii:U(U^rable thint; the pulse is accclvrati'd to 100 or
more, loud and thumping, and easily mistaken for a primary
afR-ctiou of tlie hearl.
The most efrcclual treatment will consist in a cautious
administration of laxatives, accompauicd by diuretics and
DISEASES 01- THE LIVEK.
181
coDtilcr-irnlaiits. To llm tonics mav fiuccMr«(L In myopinion,
th4.- iodtiret of iron, in doses of half a drachm, two or three
timea every day, would be preferable to anj' other medicine-
One posl-iiiortcm examination prcficiiled the liver about three
timrs its iiaturul size, ami consisting of a moss of coagulated
bbod.
Drettytd Strueture is a variety of dt»eiiscd liver particularly
dettcrving attention, nut on account of its immediate destructive-
new to the animal tTOivonij', but hy rc.isoii of its f/^-qucnt oc-
rurrcncp. It is too often the forcrunnor of dangerous com-
[ilaiitta of otlicr organ*, and it i* a xiid otntacle to their cure. In
inflammalion of the lung* it often clierks the pr:ictiiioncr in the
decisive treatment which that di»eaue re(|Utres; for aftur the
animal baa been copiously bled, and there is reason to liope
that he is doing well, the pulse becomes quickened, and feeble
and fluttering, the breathing is hurried, general and extivme
exiiaustiou ensues^ and the patient dies. In the same disease^
also, a previous altered state of tlu- \'m-r produees violent
purging from the admin iMratioti of the smallest doses of nau-
seating cathartics, and which speedily terminates in the death of
the animal.* 1 have attributed som« obstinate cases of oph-
tikalmta, and particularly some cuticiilar diseases, to this alTeclion
of tlic liver ; for after having failed in the more useful methods
of cure, I haw succeeded on turning my attention to tliis
retcui.
Thi* form of the disease, like the di»ordi-ri-d liver of tlie
drimketi man, h occflsiuned by a continuance of highly xiiniu-
tating fi>od (only it i« a solid instead of a fluid which is here tlie
deleterious agent) ; by irregular exercise, and a sudden irnn^iiion
front a coo) and healtliy stable to one tluit is hot, clo^e, and
foDlid ; hence it is that hunters and carriage horses, and almost
every where waggon horses, are so subject to It.
At first ihei-e are few or very obscure indications of internal
* Some time iriii«« n utrikiitji Droof of thui occurred uniler the obscrvntioa
of the editor. A borsc rcceivcil some ilisht injury, for whicli be liad n mijil
■lose of pfajalc 1 no attenlioii wns called <ir difcclfd to tny intcTiiiil iliseoM.
Til* fi>lto«ing day Uio plij'iic opmitcii sfivcivlv. The thinl dny thi? nnlmnl
appcMrcdvctritlitiulM ninety, Kiiinll nnd wcuL 1 vxtrt-miticii cold ; ihe mcm-
tatuae o( (lie ejtSm and the noitrili of m dc^ep jvHuw colour i piirsiiiji, but in
DO acute pain. The Iburlli day thu horse dicil ; nnd on a|>caiiiu tlic binly tlie
liver *a«raunil or nycllow lirown colour, and Italcxturc rendit^r broken dowii |
the wuid|>i{>c nnil Itingk ^hnnrd nppninuicei ortlixeiue, but of u more recent
cbdRKltr ; tlic bowvln (lifilitly iailamed. In lliSs ease, clioiit,-h tlie I'vcr miiat
have bMn dkeaanl Tor loiiid tiinir. yri the tiorse fcil well nn<l curried plenty
oTflorii. Tha doae of ohjrsit, thoiish mild, yrt acrvcd in li^hl itii <ti«ea>iFd
BCtiofi, aad aatUl In prodiicing ■ ttui re«ult. The cniie wnta to kIiow under
what deceptive appcamncca tnudistOMi or the liver inujexibt, andhuw oaen-
tial It is, mhca discoiorcd or su^ctcd, to avoiil purgniiun m well s* blood*
letting.
K 3
i«i
DISEASES OF THE HOItSE.
diseftte; btit there !s afTeclioii of the oyee, loe8 of appetitft
surfeit, hidebound, inability to maintain long and violent ex-
ertion, laintiieaa and the frequent cvaeuation of pultaceotu
fjecc*, in whicti fragments of indigested food are discoverablc-
The surest indication is a yeilou-ncs^ about tlie conjunctiva tLOd
the inner coat of the montit and the nwtrils. 'I'his is an oc-
casional attendant on tlie llim* foregoing varieties of ibr _
<liM.'a»c; but ibcrc is no insUiiico of diseased itnicturc without I
it. It is not prolmble that in the home (his yellowness shoDld
mritc from tlie iil»or|)tion of any aeeumulntcd or concrete bile,
M in (he huinnn xubjeci, ou account of the direct rommunics-
tion betu'c<.-ii tlie Ivvcr nnd the duockiiuni by mi-anii of the bile
duct; and althoit^h it in poiisiUte to Iw cauaed by the enlnr<^l I
liver [>rc«»ing upon the duct or the eontraclion of the liiict '
tlaeir, yet I am more disposed to attribute it to an inability to
■ecrete good bile or effect a wrli^t »e|>araiion of it from tbe
venous blood, or properly to di^tMHe of tliat which U M«rete(l.
A mass of iinpcrfc-ctly formed biliar\' fluid is therefore corrinl
along tti the eirculntory stream, and the discoloration ta apm^^
over every part of the svstcin. At the same time, in defau^^^|
a sufficient portion of efFcciive bite, ihc food passes along, n^^
etcape* from the inteittinal canal very impt^ectly digested. 1
1 he treatment of tlii« varil^y of di^-ased liver demands much
caution. Ill no inxtana- havi- I found a rapid cure {iracticahle.
Experience, iherefiuv, dictate* the employnn-m of rtlcviive bnl
mild nlterativos. The Iniicet it on no account to be used.
The best nllrmtive that 1 know, and which has always been,
[o a greater or IcRs degree, useful, or ] may say, effective for a
time, is composed of aloct I to 2 drachms, calomel I drachm, resin
(> <lrachins, made into a ball with treacle or syrup. 'Diis should
be given every third or fourth day: and on eiwh of tbe io-
terveiiing days, the patient should have sulphate of poMb
3 drachms, carbonate of potash ii drachms, and ginger 1 drBchm,
with liiisn'd ntral and syrup sulBcient for a boll of proper tile
and consistence.
The exercise should be regular, the food good, and not Ins
stimulating than the patient has l>ecn aecustomeil to. Ground
corn, pollard, gn-en food, am) thick gruel, wilt alVurd a pleasant
and sufficient variety. In the course of a forinighl or three
weeks, the patient usually becomes convalescentf or. at least,
lias considerably improved. Ionics may tlten be administered,
and tbe hone is apparently resiorcMl to liealth. All ihta, liow-
crer, b too ofWn delusive. From iinusiuil exertion or irregw-
larity of feeding, or some unknown cause, the horse relapses.
The former mode of treatment will again restore him ; ondi
perhaps, a third time; but ultimately he dies.
In the post-mortem examination the practitioner will at lir^I
OISKASEG or TUB LIVER.
188
be surpritcd m ihp abscttce of iInkc morbid It-sions wlitcli are
usually round at the termination of f:ital affcciionB of the ab-
dominal riiocra, (bcre bcin<; no congestion, no BUppiiration, no
inortifirntion. TiacM of diseaw are obaervablf iii ibe liver
alone, wbich lioe entirely lo§t its natuial bue, and bas acquired
a yeliow-bruwn colonr. Sumelimes it i^ diminisbcd in size, ami
tlie vv»»eU uppvar as if diejr bad lioen vmptied of tbcir oonleots,
or become impcrviouf. At otlier ttmrs tnc organisation of tlie
liver » almost (kslroyed, and (bcrc remains noilnng but a soft
pulpy mass fi-oin wbicb tbe peritoneum is easily separated.
Tlie liut viiriity of diseased liver wliieli 1 linve to mention
is an UHhftdlht/ trarlion, generally protlucrtl by cl re iim» lances
favourable to iiicreaied action in tbt* (;bu)d, lu tbe )u-ac of
summer, and alio «tiddeti cold ; by meniit uf vbicb tbe blood U
disproportionately tbrown on tlie inteniiil organ*. The drinking
of unusual cold wutcr at this Keason of the year will produce tbe
••me eflfcci. Atioilier c«uil- ii tbe venous blood circulated
through the liver Ix-ing itnprcgniiti'd with an excess of carbon,
in consequence of wbtcb the bile becomes an acid and irritating
tubstance both to ibe liver and the bowels.
This afTeclion considerably resembles tbe Englisli cbolern of
the human subjecl, and is characterised by violent purging, the
evacuations being t>oth fn^ueni and copious, of a dark colour,
and a fetid odour. Tliere ii> a continual rumbling of tbe in-
testines, tlie breathing is excessively sfiort and hurried, the dfr-
biliiy is very great, exceeding that produced by the severeat
race, ihc pulse 100 or more, and in tbe worst cases, counted
with difficulty: the nostrils expanded, the countenance anxtoiM,
and the extremities cold, and the body covered with a clammy
sweat.
With such excenive action as this going on in tbe horse, which
under no circumstances can endure excessive purgation, tbe Ri'st
indication of cure is to check the inordinate diHcItarge, and to
KUpport the constitution. 1 have been accustomed to adminiaier
Iho following drink every four or mix bourn: ttarcbjib,, port
wine I pint, laudanum '2 ounce*. In moi^t cuiteit, three of these
will be *uflicieni to n-sist ibo purging.
Having in some measure quii-U-d lliesystem, I have cautiously
given oil and aloeoi combined with un opiate, until the ex-
cretions iitHumeil a mure heiiltlty character, after which I lisve
bad recourse to tlie treatment recommended under tlie last
variety of the diw.>«se.
Iti tbv ^Nutf-morteitt api)eai-ances tliere is the same absence of
any comiderablv le«ion in the whole of the intestinal canal. Th«
liver isofa darker colour than in the la&t variety, the veswUaro
lew empty, a greater or less quantity of dark bile is found in iIm
N 4
181
DISEASES or mr. iionsc.
duct and small iiito«tine», the innvr coal of which i« Bltghllr
flushed."
Bcsidi-s llw morbid afTcciiont of llir liver meniioiu-d hv Mr.
Ciipiss, tb«Te U unottK'r which be 1in> not noticnl, and Jiai it,
krpalirrhaa, or ruplure of ttw coat* of the liver uiid htcmorrhage
from it.
It fjcm-ntUy occurs in old or middlt^-aK^ l>or*e«, and is \itt-
ceded hy siructuml <li»organtitaiioii. which (hough existing for
some lime generally csciqx-s notice.
Its *ym()iomtt, observed the late rxri.'lh>nt ntiil lamciitcd Mr.
John Fielil, "van,- in decree iKcording to tlie pi-ofH»rn<-M or
rapidity of tlm hivmorrhngesi : if the periioneal iiiveitim'iit n>
jDuiii vnttn>, the etlusioti of hlood is tnoiv f;r.t(lual and in Irst
Oduntiiy ; hut should this corn l>e ruptured hy its great dititm-
tion, or liy the eoUiaion of the body against the ground, frooi
fiunting or oilier cauies, the bleeding being unrfs trained, coo-
tiniies into the cavity of the belly, uie most nrgent symptoois
E resent themselves, and tlie horse dies, in some case^ within an
our after the first manifestation of illness, previously exhibiting
tile whole or the major ])art of the following : pawing, shifting «
tl>e posttin-, frcijueiU, feeble puW-, sometimes distinct, at Others
scarcely dislingn is liable, fulness of the belly (pouting of the
note, curling of the upper lip, sighing, eometimes very fr^
quently and deej), jiartiul or general sweating) : succeedtng to
tnesc nif great anxiety, accelerated respiration, restlessucn,
towing up the head, tottering gait, extreme debility, faintinf^
flcath. On ot>ei)ini: the ab<1oii)en we observe the intestinn
31>eninf
deluged with dark venouit blood, in a fluid state, the quantity
sometimes exceeding ten gallons; the peritoneum and intcctiim
of a faint yellow colour or quite blanched. The Iivlt presents
a ttimid appearance; some |>oriiontt of the [X'ritoneiil coat appear
opaque, and fotir or five time* tlie natural ihickn<'«s ; elsewhere
one or more rents in the part of the pcritom-al co«t, which if of
the usual tenuity, are observed, through which the extntTamted
hlood has escaped from liie ramilicaiions of ihe vetta poriartim.
Beneath (he peritonea) membrane, on each side of the (Itisurrs,
there is generally some dark coagulated blood. Tlie eo)o»r of
the liver is various, being either fawit, light yellow, or hrowni
its substance is exceedingly brittle, cim easilv be torn by tlw
finger, and is in some places broken down ; the weight of the
liver and extravasated coagula in some caaes exceed* sixty
pounds. Tlw hepatic duct always contains bile.
" This increas«l si;«e of tlic liver is occasioned by the extrava-
sation of blood into the substance, and under the peritoneal coal,
not by an iticreate of the natural substance of tlie organ. If d»e
hceniorrhage be not very profuse, the synipionis are le^ marked,
and uccasioiudly dotiblful ; but in most inslaiicee one or more <^
DISBUES OP TUB LIVEK. 186
the cliaractcrislics of the complaint arc prosrnt, or iho obeciinty
ihat first cxUtL-i) is gmdiially tlissipatcd by iW aggravation of
lliv symptoms wliic-h gvin'mily assiitno the sl-vltv form iii a few
(lay«.
" Diminished appetite, swelling of (he hind leg», Inintness in
vrork, apparent fu!ne«tt uf ab(Iom<-n, slight uiu'aKinvas, Kometimea
looking tMck, or lying down, but wiiliout rolling, have been
the deviations Trom heulth first noticed. After tliis period the
!nilw may Ixr saircely altered, hut soon beeoine* frequent and
treble; (liv buccal and schneideriaii membriines appear, at fii-sl,
of their natural colour, aftcrwui'd paler, or judv yellow, lastly,
blaiich«iL There is, occasionally, sighing, lUe >hv of the abdo-
men increases, tlie mngue becoine^ furred and dimigreenbie,
lite ean> are clammy, the bulk of tlie body reduce^ uning to
lUe abMtrpiioii of the futty i>art&, the horse geU wc^er, the
pupil of one or both eyes grailually dilates, from tlte diminished
seiisibility of the I'etina to light, until the eyes become com-
pletely amaurotic. It is a remarkable fact that, notwithstanding
tlie patient may rally for a time fi-ora the disease, regain his
strength and condition, and return lo work, I have never seen
nor heard of a single instanceof the recovery of sight ; allhougb,
in one case, the Iior^c worked for twelve montlis afterwards.
Anuiurosis more commonly occurs after the second or third
attack.
" If ihe ha;ii>orrhage be beneath the iieritoneal investment, or
in the substance of the liver, or under the peritoneum, and
ceases, tlie symptoms consequent upon the loss of blood dimi-
nish; and about the third day of such improvement, the pre-
viously blanched conjunctiva and buccal membranes are tinned
with a yellow colour, which gradually deepens, and, after a few
days, red ressela arc seen ramifying on the bilc-coIoured mcm-
bnuKS, and the natural liu« is soon restored. At the same time,
corresponding improvement taktM place in the other symploma,
the pulse becomi-s fuller, and les« frequent, the sighing ceases,
the fiiz« of the belly diminishes, the horse Ix-gins to feed, and lies
down; he has, however, undergime a most extraordinary reduc-
tion in tlM? sixe of bis body : if fiit prior Lo llie nitack, the reduc-
tion is more sudden, iiml nmnifi«iry greater In this than in any
other disease with which [he horse !» nltected.
" The urine ami leces during the attack ronniin nnuUered;
but, in the aniinHr* npproiteh lo convalescence, the urine has
l>e«>n obseni-d, in suine cases, of a deep brown, or tiearly black
colour. From what lias i>een premised, it is evident tbut the
existence of this disease is only known when the whole or part
of the liver is irreiKtiubly destroyed, and, therefore, but little can
be expected from (he aid of the veterinary art, mvc the prevent-
ing tho abuse of tbohe depletive measures, particularly veneseo-
186
lion, to whicli lion -veterinary persons urc so apt to have recouise
in all kinds orailmenls, ami by which patii'nts of thn clma liare
been a little Kooner hurried off. Still, however, tboM sivptic
and astringent nti-dican>cnt« may be (Employed, which are re-
garded OS in wine di^^ree renu-dial in leu («vere forms of bf-
morrhagc; mich as the prc|Hiratioii of turjicntine, alum, sulphu-
ric ocidf and buUani of copaiba, in doses of one ounce." — Ed.]
CHAP. XXXVII.
DISE.ISRX OF THE KIDNEYS. — INrLAMMATtOK or TtlE KIDKETtt
OR NEFUUITie. — lIXUATUItlA, OH BLOODY UKINE.
Juiflammation of ihe Kidntys {NfjAritit).
M
f'^nerally eaused by riding or driving a liorae immoderaii
by straining the loinSf in making him draw heavy loacU, or carrt
heavy burdens ; by exposure to cold and wet, (Mirticularly if
apphed to the loins, and the employment of powerful diuretic
medicine.
The tymptomt of the disorder are, a conatant desire to main
water, without being able to void any, or scarcely any ; and the
little tluit is discharged is dark-coloured or bloody ; Odcaaionallv
Suite black, f^ometimes tltere is considerable [rain manifeate<^
lehoi'se lying down and getting up frcqiienllyt as in colic, and
looking rouna at his flanks. On pressing the loins lie cvincn
conj>i<lerable tenderness. I'he pulse is getkerally hard atnl fuUt
and ofien as many as 70 or 80 in a minute. Tliei'c ia gr«aC (tiff*
ness of ttie hind ports, generally more observable in one leg ihao
the other. The horse often stands straddling, or wide, as if in
want to make tvntcr, and e^'erv now and tlicn straining, or
making p;iinful and incfTectnal enbrls to stale. This appeanuMO
oftrn iMidH t)i« groom to think that it is a stoppage of water, and
that a diuretic n necessary; but iho fact is, tlut the dark-
coloured, or bloody urine, is so sliniulaling or acrimonious, tint
th« bladder coiitracl.t vioU-ntly, in order to force out the sntalint
aiianiity that grin into it. I have examini-d horMif that Imw
ied of thi* disorder, aiid founri the bladder healthy, while tlio
kidnt-yN hiivt; bi-vn highly in(hmH-d.
Q'l'lio traitrnml thould con.ftit of copious bleed in|^ until, indeed,
the pulie fthrinkk under the finger, and beconK-s almost imper-
ceptible. A stimiihtiing linimeiii, composed of luLi't«linrn and
oil, shotild be rubbed on the loin>, which shouhl then be covered
by a fresh ahoep-skin, the llesh >idi- under. 'I'lte kkin should,
if pMaible, be renewed in twelve or eij^litecn houn. ^io diurdk
DIBEASKS OW THE KIDNEY!!.
mrdKiiio sliould be sdministcrtxlt either iiilcniully or cxi^mBlly;
ilicrt-forc blister? must be avoiilotl, ns llii-y corituin caniharidos,
wliicli mcdicinv has considcrabU- diuretic propcrlics. The dlect
of the fthc«i>-skin will be to produce n nio«c proftisc pcmpiraiion,
which may occasionally be scmpcd ofT. If shccp^Kiiis cannot
be procured, itic liniment should be repealed with the addition
of half a drachm of croton oil, or n muoiard poultice may be
applied to the loins.
A draught «houlil next be givi^ composed of 4 drachma of
aloes, and a pint of Itnsecd oil.
llw Itorse shonld be allowed plenty of lliin linsee<l tcs and
vrarm bran mwilu-s, if 1h< will i-nl them.
Copious inji-etioiiH »Iiou]d la: fi-e<iuently thrown u|>, boiJt to
rentove the eoftiveni^s, an<) i« act aft a fomentation.
If tl>e urgency of tlte xymptumM are not maU-rinlly abnlrd in
the course of lix hourt, the blood-letiing ehoulil be re{K-itted,
and a scruple of white hellebore, admitiUtei'ed twice a day, witli
a few drachms of ^um arable.
When tlie )>orse geu better, the pain is conftiderably dim!-
nistied, as well as the tenderness of (be loina, and (he iirint? be-
oomeB gradually of a lighter colour.
Core must be taken that the bor»e is not workeil loo soon,
particularly with lieavy draughts or burdens. -^Ed-^
H(tiTutturia.
[Bloody urine u sometimes dischurge<l without any appearance
of inflammation or conxtitutionul atTeciion ; it is then called Ila-
muturia, and often ariaes from Muddet) exertions or strains, whea
perhaps some small blood vessel l>ccome5 ruptured.
I'lie horse should be rested, bled, and physicked ; and if the
rmptonis are very severe, the same treatment should be em-
'ploved, as in inflammation of the kidneys. — En.]
It sometimes Imppens, however, that the urine t>ecomcs foul
and stimulating from high or unwholesome feeding. In (his
case tlie bladder will contract upon a small quantity of urine,
and the urine may be rather hign-coloured like beer, or turbid
like whey, and the horse may appear to strain a little in r()i<liiig
it ; but this is very diflerent from those distressing nymptoms
which attend inflammation of the kidneys, nor is it accompanied
vith lots of appetite, or any degree of fever, which is always
present in inflammaiion of the kidneys. When the urine he-
mes thus stimulating, sonic cold mashes, with a little nitre,
«y be givcji, or what is still belter, perliaps, wrac grass, vetches,
or lucerne. If the horse is at all costive, a clyster should be
thrown up. An infusion of linseed is a good drink for a horse
when the iirinc is in this stale. There are other diseases of the
^
msKAsBs or the rorss.
I
I
kicWyii by wliich their funvtions arc interrupted, at Aral
tiiilly, ami witli coiuiderablc inlprmissionB oi- reniisawiu,
HlWr u time vrliolly iitxl [Krntiaitcntty. One of t1)c»e dieeases {
n j^dunl di^njr of llii- kidm-}'; snotJtcr is a gradual etdur
ment and oblilrtniion of it* stmcturc as a secreting organ ; i
a third ii a collection of earthy inniter or grawl. I have e«n j
stone that was liiund in u honivV kiilrtey which weighed fit
ounces. Gibson relates a CMe uf ckr»ycd kidneys in a milW
horse, caused, as hu tlwught, by carrying hi-avy burdens. "This
horse," he says, " was often subject to wipprewion of urine, and
though he was always relieved by timely nppliciilions yet these
attacks became more IVe<)uent as he grew «1il, till the last attack,
when be continued three days without »tiiliiig, or fliowing \he
least di&posilion to stale. During this time he never itoud widf
or straddling, as in inflammation of ih« kidneys, but niorcd hi*
hind legs with ease till the day before his death, when his legs
and whole body swelled, and broke out into great blotches. On
opening the body after death the left kidney was fouttd very
large, in wine places jpongj-, in others scirrhous, and so mangled
llmt nothing of its original slrucuirc appeared. Nothing ~*
mnincd of the right kidney but a small hard substance, al
iIh.' size of a pullet's egg, almost ossified, and of no regu!
shajie." In examining glandered horses that hare taken su
limalc or ealomeHor sonic time, I have generally found one or
boili kidtM-y* conaitkrnbly eidiirged; hut mslead of looking rod
and iiidaiiK-d, they were generally pale, f1abbr,and lender. Al^^
the preparations of mercury, wln-n continued for some time, s^^|
powerfully us diuretic*; from which it may be inferred tliat a^^
improper use of any diuretic medicine is likely to injure the
kidneys. CiiIchIouk concretions, or giavi-l, are Mimctimea found
in the kidneys boili »f horsea and ciiiilc. jmd iw long as they
reiniiin there iippeiir lu jnodiice but little Irril.ttion. .Clones lurc
;mich mofe fi-eqiiontJy fi)m)d in ilio kidneys limn in the bladder,
contrary to the fact in the human aubJL'ct ; this is owing to line
erect position of man favouring the descent of the calculus, a
the horiionlal posture of the horse tending to pr«Tent iL
angled
n sub^^
CHAP. XXXVIII.
DISEASES OP THE UI.ADDER.
liifiammaHon of the Blattitrr (C^j/ifu).
[1'iiis disease is rarely mci with, although it now aiid then ootstH'
aoinetiinei connected with otiivr dueaaes, and switctiinn as
DlSEAeES OF TUK ULADDLR.
independent affection. It is, I think, more frequent in tJie
jnare than the horse, and it has been produced by injecting
acrid substances into the bladder with n view to promote Uie
disposition to copulate. Some casvs of this kind were related
by tbc late ProfcESor Colemnn. It may also be produced by
irritating medicines, such as canthuridt^f gin.-n in liie usu^
way.
Dte tytnptom* of this dieejuc arc cnsily recognised. There is
considerable fever and (juickiins of pulse, and ti great deal of
pain exliibited, tlic animal looking round to bis quarters, and
lying down and getting up frrquenlly. Attention is directed to
the seat of disease by tbc unremitting attempts at stulitig evinced:
DO sooner do u tew drops of urine enter the bioddt-r than it is
forcibly ejccti'd with a spJismocHc effort. The orgiins of genera-
tion, if a niw, arv i-X('ii-ilingly red and inDamed. This die-
eusc is more dang(.-rou:4 (ban inllamination of tlie kidneys, and
^uiilew relief be ubiained, death supervenes in a few day*.
^K A i>iut-tnortem examination exhibits the mucous inciitbraiie of
ine bladder intensely Iiitlamed, and some portion of It fR-rjuently
in a aliile of ulceration.
The trralvirnl consists of copious venesection, repeated in six
or eigbl hours if required. Itackraking and the frequent ad-
miimtration of injections, imd niuciloginuuH (luIdK, such as linseed
lea or infiuiun of gum antbic, should be carefully and slowly
injected into tlie bladder; and it wuuld be serviceable if B
watery infusion of opium were injected at the snme time, A
drachm of powdered opium infused in half a pint of hot water,
and afterwards strained, wdl serve for several applications. Oily
laxatives should be given bo as to I'clax the bowels without
purging them; and half a drachm of opium, with one drachm
of lariarised antimony, may be given three times a day- I'lenty
of linseed lea should he given voluntarily, if possible; but if not,
by uK-ans of the horn. Diuretics of all sorts must be carefully
avoided. Warm >kev|>-4kiiu thould be applied to the loins. —
Eo.]
jj^ [_Ihtention vf Urine
^klore fre<)uently occurs as a troublesome attendant on other
diseases than as an independent affi-ction. In those gencnil and
complicated inflammatory diseases, understood under the term
diHl, a retention of urine is frctjucntly present. In colic^ too,
there is frequently an Inability to stale, notwithstanding frequent
cfToris to do so, but this Is owing to sympathy with the »pa)tm
of the bowels ; for when the latter arc relieved, the horse stales
wiihont difRculty. From neeing these abortive attempts at
staling, grooms almost invariably xay, in cases of colic, that
there u a stoppage i» the water. Kctculioii of urine is generally
OMKMES or TBC HOaSX.
owing to llif »|>A«iiodin notion uf the sphincter musclf, wliow
office it is to prvvtriit the urine Trom esoiping. It is (feiicrall;
prtxliKcd by driving or riding long dimanoes witJiout allowing
tlic animnl to iinnAl«>.
Ute sgrnplnnu nn' tVi-qiieiit, (IioukI) not violent, atietriplc tt
sikliiif;, wliicli lire im-ITcctual, or perhaps a few drop* oiily ma;
iuue iVoiti ilio ynrd. Tlit- lior*<- doe> not betray the scriTe pain
of colic, but u mt]ier uiiwilliitg to move, aiid rarely lies down.
He lilnrtches himitelf out iVom tinte to time, renews tlic attempt,
and then reiurna to hi* former posture. On piwiiiig the bud
up the ri-ctum we tind (he bladder very much diatvnded wtilt
urine, which iLwures us of the nature of the diseaMS which tlir
mere frequent attempts at staling would alone be insufficient to
decide
Trtalfund. — If the patient be a mare we sliould, witlioui
liesilalion, evacuate the bladder by means of a flexible tube,
culled a cBthcIer. The method of doing this, however, rcauirM
a little tact. The instrument slmuid he introduced at ihr lower
part of the vuiiea, under the fore-finger of llie right himd, wjiich
Bcrves es its guide. A few inches within the entrance t)ic fold of
membrane is fell which covers the parage to die bladtlvr ; this
membrane, being railed by the back of the foro-linger, tlio tube
is readily puslMxl onwards into the bladder.
If, however, (he patient be a male, we must first endeavour to
OAitUl nature by boeKraking and rlystcrini;, and perhaps foineot-
ing the a)KlumL-n, and occasionally pressing the Ikand on ibe
bladder. If, however, wc do not succe>ed' in the course of lialf
an hour, and the bladder is very full, we should proceed to pass
the catheter, which is a hollow flexible tube, about a yard in
length, having a whalebone stilet within, which can be with-
drawn, as we please, front its cavity.
An opportunity should be enibrnci-<l when ttx- penis ia pro-
trudi-<l from the nheuth, otherwise it muy be excvt»lingly difficult
to rciurh and retain it. It should be then firmly gra^>ed with
ihe left hand, drawn out to its full extent, and with the right
hand the tulie, well oiled, >hoitld be carefully fortx-tl up the
tireihra until it enten the hUdder. It may readily be felt
in ii» course, at the perineum, just under the anus. Having
entered the bluilder, ilie whalebone stilet aliould be withdrawn,
■lid the urine will tlien flow.
After (he operation the symnioms usually disajipear, and llu
animal feeds. If Uiere is much gei>eral irritation, it is woll to
[ bleed either before or aftei* the operation ; and if any other
syinptonts appear, tlie case must be treated accordingly.
If I'elief be not iluia obtained, the urgency of the symptoms
will increo-ie, and the bladder may burst, and death, of course,
ensue.
CALCULI IK THE ULAUDKK.
191
Soineiimei, ihough verjr rarcl)', a liolc is bund i» ihe bIwkUr
which permits the- uriiif to flow into die abdomen, and ihiis
produces riiul infliimtnittion of the peritoneum. Onf. case
of till* kind occiirri,-<) in my prnclicc some y«ars since, juid ii
n-liiU-d in tUe I'etrrinariaH, vol. iii. 'lite case vaa co«iphcMc(l
■nrith pn«unioiiia, und tite >ym[>loms were thuB rendered obtcurv.
~11ii; mnre dieil on the ninth cUy, and, on examining die body
aiid 0(>e»in^ ttie alMlamcfi, n lurge (juaiitily of fluid e^cAped, or
a brown colour nnd muddy iipjicaniiicc. 'I'lic bladder waa nnidi
dimininluHl in siite, mid ii liiri^e hulv was perceives! near itt
funduK. 'i'hi.- ail^t^ of the orilice were tinooui, and it a(H>ewred
lo have been occasiionetl by ulceration ; the coals were tliicKened,
but the Madder it«elf did not appear to be much inflamed, ex-
cept immediately round ilit' orifice. Kvcry time tlic mare staled
a jKirlion of the urine mu«t have been diKcluirged through the
ifice into the aivity of ilie abdomen.
We may ftuHpect the exiitence of such leooit when we find a
frequent diB|K)«iun lo &lale, but very little urine ap[>carinf;, aiid
this of the tiiual colour, d;e bladder at the lotiie tiiite being by
' lo means distended. — Ed.}
I
Cakitii in the BiaddeTf
Compared with the human subject, is exceedingly rare, for many
years may elapse before a case comes under the notice of a
veterifiary surgeon. From being a vegetable feeder, and luving
water as his only article of drink, there is but little dispoaitton
fco produce these urinary concretions. Then, again, when
forntM, from the horiwHital position of IJtc animal, ihcy more
frc(juently remain in the lii<hiey»i. A few year* since, on ex-
amining iIk- body of a honie timt wiw discharged on account of
being a bad roarer, a stone, weighing several ounce*, was found
in on« of l)io kidneys. 1'here had not bc«n any symptoms,
during life, to denote its pre»enoe.
'Hiere is, in the MuM-iim of the Veterituiry College, a stone,
an large a> a nuin'^ tint, found in the bladder of a horse which,
during life, fiir sotne lengtli of time, Itad been accuxtomi-d to
Male every ten minutes, and was known round the country by
i^^lte name of the Pissing Horse.
^^ On analyung vesical calculi, they have nearly always been
^Bbund to conLiin die same component jtarts. prioci[>alty carbonate
m^f linw. They are readily dissolved by acids when taken from
the body ; but, aldioiigh many attempts have been made to
^^oopnplisl) lliii etfect, in the living subject, b)- administering
^^^Kar and muriatic acid internally, and by injection, yet tlie
^^^m Itaa not been satiefaclory : recourse must generally bo had
to the operation of lithotomy, in orth^r to remove a calculus from
Llhe bladder.
tftS
There arc several auoceoful case* oit rtx^ord, boih Enf^iah ami
fbreign, otic of tlie uarlicst lukring bt-cn pcrfgrmcd and reUlnl
hv La Fosse. He tayt, "'Ilie liorsc was about fbuneeii yean
old. and wa« oflcn obtcrvcd lo have jiain and difficulty in sialiiig,
voidinjf only n small quantity, wliich was sometimes bloodr.
I Upon introducin){ tin- liHrid into ilx- gtit tlic- stone was distinctly
' felt; and al'UT n few ilnyt' pri-|iariiiioii, by bk-^lingand opening
medicine, with a miart^ diet, the Imrae was placed on liia baek,
and an opening made in ttie ureihra, tu>ar tlic anus, in tbe
tnaniier I tliall Hoon dojteribe. Tlirutif;)! t>iis opening the fore-
linger wa« introducett into the bludder, while an ussiutani liad
Ills luind in the gut (o prctfl up tlie utotie lluil it nii<^ht bt- fell
by the 0[><-ni[»r, wlio then inlroduced un iimrunieiii, guide<l by
his rin<!ei', witli nliicli two incisions were inatle in thv neck of
tlic bladder, one on cacli side. The forcepi were now intro-
duced uihI die stone laid hold of, but it broke into small pieces,
which were all extracted, and found lo weigh iive ounces. No
drc«iiiiig was applied to the wound, but some linseed infusion
was injeclcd into llic bladder. The horse got up witltout as-
sistance, was bled ihrec limes the same day, and not allowed anv
solid food. His drink was white water (bran tea) ; the boweu
were kept open by clysters. On the fourth day lie was allowed
a small bran mash and some straw. This alton-ance was gr^
dually increased. Tliere was scarcely any fever; the wound
suppurated, and lookixl hentthy. Durinc some days fiArt of
the urine |)3sscd ihrou^h die wound, and about the 2'2d day
it was perfectly healed." A short time since I received a letter
from Mr. VV, Mogford, some years n^o my pupil and assistant)
10 inform me that Iw had cxtracleu a stone from a hom't
bladder, which weighed more than five ounces. He says, aUo,
that Iw is convinced diat a stone of eifjht ounces miglit be
extracted by the nu-aiis he adopted on this occasion; tJiat i*,
without wounding ihc neck of the bladder, as I^ Fosse did, and
without tl>e aid of furc<.*]v(. Wlieit the horse was brought to
ftlr. M. iie obserri.-d a |K.-culiar xiifTni-ss in the hind parts, a fre-
quent desire to stale, and u dribbling of itrine from the peni«
for tome lime afterward. By bleirding, t^itbrocating the iuiii>,
emollient clystent, and rciit, thete syniplonis disappeared, ami
the horse was tent to grass. lie won broke out of the lidd.
and, croiaing the country, returned ti> a pasture in which he lind
some time before been kept. This exertion caused a reiurn of
ttie abore symptoms, and he was again brought to Mr. M., who
now pasted hiii hand up the fundament, in order to feci, tlii-ou|{h
the rectum or gut, what urine tliere wa* in the bladder, when
he distinctly I'elt a stone in it. He oonimiinicatc^l tite circutn-
stance to a surgeon, who could not lielicve it until he had ex-
amined the horse himself, wlieii he also felt a slooe in the bloddur
CALCULI IK TUE IILADDKU. 193
vrry clntiiMtly. Mr. M. tww proc(.>«Ocd to the operalion, aa<l
lisviiig cut ttovrn upon iliv wlinlebonc rod which had bcpii
pftMe<] up (hroti^li the p<:'ni», he coiitiiiiied llie incision, bv moans
of a. conductor nnd a probe-pointed bJKtoiiry, to the neck of the
blMJder. Tlirough ihi« opening lie introduced the first and
■eoond finj^er of his left hand into the bladder, »nd with liis
right hand in the rectum he forced the stone towardti iliem, and
bv theae means the atone waa conducted to the neck nf tlie
bladder, and by a stronger pressure forced out tlirougli tlic
opening that had been made in the urethra. The wound «oon
healed, except a small orifice throufjh which a little of tlie urine
coniintieil to pass hut tin; lwr»e hw) been working regularly
wilhoiil IccliMf; any ineoiivenivnce from it.
[Profewor Ciintrd, of the French school, htu written im able
invmuir on tlie Mubject of vnical calculi. He ndviite> the opera-
tion lo be perlbrmed with the patient, wlietlier male or female,
in a standing posture, and properly secured, and directs the
incision in the male to be made in an oblique direction. " In
the feinale," be says, " the stone may be extracted by the dila-
tion of the urethra by mechanical means, aided by relaxing
injections and fomentations; cystotomy is only to be resorted
to when these fail." In this casi-, lithotomy consiati simply in
laying open t)»e urethra itlong its median line and from behind
forwards : it te to be perfornu-d with a bistoury directed by one
of the finger* of the left Itiiiid. In ihi:t manner, M. Dufils,
V.S., at Kourdenux, in 1H21, extrncted a stone from a mare,
witicb wa* linlgud in {Mirt in the meatus urinarjui, whereby *\n;
who was before tlw subject of frequent colics, became at once
restored to easei and speedily afterwards to health. In the
oeiure of the stone was found an almond, forming its nucleus.
At il)e time it was shown to us, M. Dufits assured us that it
liad lost much of its weight and volume, proving thcrcljy that
these calculi contain a large proportion of lluld, tlic evaporation
of which evidently brings on this diminution.
Pro(c«or Sewell, a few years since, )H*rformed the ojtcration
■ucceMfuUy, and thus relates it: —
" The horse is twelve years of age, and has been huni^'d
n-ci'l'>'''y the last seven years, up to the period of admission
{February 14.). lie had for kc vera I months evacuated very high-
colunred turbid urine, often mixed with blood, expressing great
(xiin, with continui-ii attempt to expel more. Tlw symptoms
were incrrii>*tl with a lull into a ditch, by which he was Kuppord
to have injured the kidneys, sa it was followed by more frequent
evacuations, and at the conclusion by pure blood. Hy the
tr^:«tment pursued, these violent symptoms were alleviated, but
always returned alter exertion. After his admission ihc symfv
toros continiwd, but wcrv relieved by aperients or light diet.
194
matAsts or trk noiiae.
'V\w pul»c was k^it up by irritation to 38 per minute, v^
Itonlthy average bein;; 32.
** Suspocling calculus might be the eaust-f I examined tht
blachk-r, by introducing my hand and arm up iIh> rectum, aad
(liMinclly fflt a firm, roundish substance at llie neck of iti«
b)ad<k>r, which wn» cmpiy, and (irmly conlracied upon it. The
BymirioniM *vcre nithi-r iticrfOMtl ; and on a «ubM-<|iiiNit day I
i-eiiew^tl il>« I'xami nation I when the bladder ins ixsirly fuU, and
I could move llie iioih- very readily.
*'0n tbe tKtli,lh« animal appenrMJ to be in a favourable nau.-
for the operation of lithotomy, which w-a» [>orforined by scvuring
bim upon bis bock, wiib the bind lega drawn forwards lo the
shoulders. The penis being drawn out, a three foot wbalebq^
staff was introduced as far as the perineum, and tbe uret^l
opened by an incision about three mchcs in length ; a groov«l
KMiiid was llK-n passed straight Into the bladder, and the stone
WW most divlincliy felt, and lieiu-d on \King Ktruck. It wu
altempled to t>e extriciitcd without cutting o|)en the )>clvic pw-
lion of the uretlira and neck of the blailder, being n'iiiaily
grasped with the forceps, astisled by pressure made upon the
cnkulus by ibe left liana introduced mto the rectum ; but being
too large, these parts were laid open by a lateral incision ntade
with a strong, curved, and probe-puintiAt bistoury. It was then,
by the same means, but with considerable force, brought
gradually forward to the [xiriiieinn, when it wax forcibly con-
Iracte<] upon, and a further exteiiKJon of the external incision
was necessarily made to effi-et its removal. The hiemorrhagv
waa not very great or alarming, but it u-u» llwught best to Kcunr
a perineal vessel with a ligature.
*' The calculus u of tlie mulberrv kind, very rough, of a dc-
presM'd oval form, weighing nearly three ounces : ii ha* no
distinct nucleut. Dr. Hroul. having obligingly undertaken to
analyse ili found it composed principally of the carbonate of
linie, some phospliaieof lime, nnd a little phosphate uf niAgnesia,
" The hufM*, tnini(.-<l lately after the operation, became tranquil
and cliHrrful, and the pulse fell by evening to tlio healthy
»tambird, to :)*2 per minute, and so continued until noon, tlie
following day, when, being rather agitated by numerous visiters,
it rose to OH, and by night to 45. Four quarts of blood were
taken from the jugular vein, a mild putative given, iiid
frequent elystcre.
"February 28. — I'ulso 40; in tlio evening, 44; bowels
reiaxeil.
" March I . — Pulse 44 ; purgative and clysters repeutod.
" March 2. — I'uUe 4'J ; and so continued until the l^tb, when
it rirclineil to 3<^ and subsequently to Hi, at which it continued
Uiil day (tltc Idtli), three weeks since die operatiou ; tlie bowels
DISEASES or TIIR MOUTH.
196
liiiring been k<rpt o|)Cii by npcricnt dcKtcs of xloox and by cly«-
tcr». T>ic urine wiu cvacuaicd partly by ihe orifice until tlii«
time; btil (Ik wound ti now ItealtHl, nnd it flowa through tlic
vrbolt! Ivngtii oflhc urethra without the leaat impediment, lite
lion« is exerenied daily, and is fit to be discharged." — Ed.]
Diabttn
Consist* in an exec«ire discbnrge of urine, attended with
frreut thirst, nnd sometimes with n gradual Ion of flesh and
^n-ii( dt^hiliiy. The urJnu is sometimes limpid nnd transparent
like water; nt otlters higli-eotoured, and of a very ofleiisive
smell.
It is generally produced by improper provender, such us oals
that have been bleacbcd and greatly kiln dried, by new oau and
mowburnl or new hay.
'riiis disease lias frequently appeared amongst cavalry horws
wlken on foreign service, and )iiiljji,-cted to bad and rotten forage.
The following ball should be given: —
Opium from } drachm to I draebm.
Catechu 2 drachms.
Sulphate of iron 2 dnichm».
Ginger I draclnn.
Gentian 2 tlrochms.
'I'o }m: made into a hall with irt^iele, and given once a day for
three or fijur days ; tlwii leaving olT ibr a (iiy or two, and con-
tinuing as befori*, if neeessaiy.
'Ilie body should be warmly clothed, and groel made with
flour should be given to drink instead of water. A nioderi\te
portion of beans ilwuld be given, and the oats diminished in pro-
portion, whicti, together wiOi tlie hay, must be of tlie best
quality. ,
CHAP. XXXIX.
DISRASES or THE MOUTH.
[In a stale of nature, and with grass for the only diet, the
pvtft concerned in mastication and deglutition would be rnreljf
if ever diseaaecL But when the IwrsD is brought into the stable,
and forced to subsist on Itny and com, subjected lo irregularities
in feeding, and thir mniilh expoM'<l to llic prcsHiiriT of the iiitii
bit, we fiiHl it subjected to various injuries and diseases, some
wrious, others trivial, though inconvenient.— Ed.]
o 2
nissAses or the noise.
Lam/Ml, Baffif Uleert in Iht AftwM, laeerated Tonffiu, Quiddtiy,
Obttmelioiu in the (Etophoffus.
TliU dUcwtc ooti»iHi» in a iiwellin^ of ihe roof of tlic moulb,
iioar till- Croiii ui-di, niid h Kometinte^ higher than the teeth. It
hiippeiiA gi-ncrally l>i-twe«ii t)>e third and fifth year, and ia stip-
)i(>Mtl (o pivvetK a colt from gathering his fuod with case, 80 tlial
on iliat account he falU off in feeding, and consequently in flrali
or condition. The usual remedy is to scoop out tlic part next
tlw l<-ctli, with a red Itot iron formed for the ptirpost.-, or teu it
with a Hat pic«c of iron inudc hot. Th(.*sv remedies arc itiU
j{i'nera)ty practised, even in thv iirmy : nor i« it pouiblc, I
helifvo, for veterinary Nurgvon* 10 prevent its being done The
lamiKw, however, i* rioi the caiue of the coil's censing to ftcd
weir, and falling olf in ilesli, it depends upon his culling the
grinding lecth at this time ; and if, instead of burning out the
lampas, as they tenn it, they would keep him entirely on br«n
mashes for about a week, he would be able to cat his bay and
corn wilh avidity : for (he stomach, which always sympaihiMS
vritli the moulh in the painful periods of dentition, is quickly
restorvd when tin* [tower of mastication rr-mna. We oAen fuid
wlieii ibf! lainpa* U prcM-nt itiat tlie membrane of th« moutli,
just within the cornem of llie li|Nt, is an swollen, ai to get
bettt'een die grindi-nt, thus preventing ihe animal from reeling.
When tliiii in the cane, it is cuinmonly called the bt^ or ttxahrt,
and may be i-vmoved by culling off a portion witli wisaon.
'Iliis diitt-ibk) in oft«-n oocaJ>ioiied by the bearing rein being too
tiglil, and also by gngging.
The teeth may Ix-' imjierfect, and ol^en are so: lite grinden
wear in a difFcrent manner from that in which they would, were
the animals in a stale of nature ; con^equeiilly sharp edges ore
sometimes formed on ihe outside of the biglwr grindery and on
die inside of the lower grinders; and iW in«i<te of the clicekt
and the tongue, widi l)ic skin or meuihrnne eonnecied with it,
arc thereby woundcil, which prevents tlio hone: from maiiicaiing,
without considerable pain, and inducer him to swallow his food
im|M.Tfectly chewed : this is more especially the ease with bay;
and wheti hay is swallowed in this state, it docs liarni, being
difficult of digestion, as then its nutritive matter i« not easily
extracted hy tiie gastric power: Itenc*,' arise indigmiion, flatu-
lency, and numerous dl^rdrrx. 1 have fwen at die kvnnel llie
jaw of a liorsc, which died literally from starvation, in coiue-
qiicnce of a di<easc of (he grinding teeth, which appeared lo
liave been brought on hy feeding on coarse woody hay, coo-
lainiiig the stalks of lliisilei, docks, &c. 'I'his animal was what
dealers term n qaiitiUrylw the muscles of deghitiiion wer*- at hut
M) affected, that be was incapable of swallowing; and aftor
DiaCAHES or THE MOtlTII, KTC. MS
rruill(«fi attempts 10 clirw hit food, it wax thrown nut into tlic
maiiffcr in a ball or ([uicl, oiiti a grout cU-al of iinperfivi)}' clicwed
hay bad been roropd into t)i« ciivitik.**, forimtl at tbi- roots of
aome of the grindinf^ teeth, lltp remedy in these coitcs is to
die oft the diarp edges of the teeth by nieana of an instrument
called tlw luotli-ra£p, and wliith is mode for ilie purpose. The
nmc plnn itliould )k' a(lo]>ted in cases wliere one ol the molar
teeth U found much higher itiaii the others, — a case by no
mrun» very uufrvt{iK-nI, and which causes an inability to miuii-
cate tlic t^HMJ. Miulication may be impeded or prevented by
tliat state of the mouUi which generally attends teething : it
mny atso be affected by an injudicioos use of the bit, as i» well
kiiouu in regimeiils of cavalry, where it is too common.
During the time that horr<ii arc breaking, more particularly,
|])ey are ol'ien hurt in tlM.- mouth by the pn-xoure of the bit:
especially in tltat part where it liearx wln^n i)»ey are put ujwn
the bit, as it is termed ; that is, wheti their noM^ are reined in
towards the clicst. The bit iiwa bears on the under jaw between
the tush and t)>e lirst grinder. Tlie boue in Una part being
thinly covered with gum, is often bruised and inflamed ; ana
being neglected, or mther the pres'^ure being still continued, it
becomes curious, uiid a troublesome sore or situis is the conso-
quenoc. and occasionally a portion of the bone is deprived of
nourishment and exfoliates. This sore, in feeding, becomes
filled with masticated hay, which, being discovered, is supposed
(O be the eattsc of the sort'; and as common hay cannot be sup-
posed to l>e oa|>able of Mich an effect, it is attributed to what (Im
grooms term M)uirrel-tail grass, that h, wild barley. This
severe bitting, thuuj^b not always m-cessary, is llie most etlecttml
method of subduing the teinp«>r nf a xiiiliburii hone that can be
B(lopt<'d. Jl will more elVectiially cure restivene&s tlian any
punUhinent that can be devised, and if properly conducted, will
make a mouth, or rather a temper, whatever die rider wisJiea it
lo be; lor what is called softening or making the mouth is in
fact softening or making the temper. There is great danger,
however, of altumpiing to make the mouth at the time of riding,
by means of a running rein ; for if h« is a stubborn or runaway
horse, there is great danger of throwing him down, and in the
most dangerous nuinner that can be. I'or, if ho is determined
to run away, and the ri<ler endvuvotir« lo prevent him by a
rttnning rein, in drawing liis no»c: duwn to his chest, he so
restrains the muscle* of the iilioulder thnt he nin«t of neccssiiy
pull him duwn topy-turvy. Since the body being pi-opelled by
the musch'* of the hind parts, the rettiraini thus intpufed upon
the extcn*or muscles of the fore-leg, prevents their being thrown
to the extent ri'tpiired, aud he comes down with the muit dan-
gerous violeiK-r. 1 have known ihU accident happen with
o 3 a
I J
DISEASES OF TBE HOTISK.
hones that have had upriglu shoulders and very well-formed
himi parts ; I have also known ven' safe hurtes, ttutt have ron-
Iracled a habil of going wiih their noses pokwl out, become
I very unsafe, and soon ^t broken knees by rnd^vouring to im-
prove their carriage by a martingale or running; n?in. When
tills injury is observed in the mouth, the >iorsv >houI<l be k^t
on hrnn uiiuIh-*, and if the bone is not injured, tl»e sore may be
dremctl with a litth> alum, hon«y, and water. Mom commMily,
h»wev4-r, wlieii the sore is carefully examined with a probe, the
bare bone may be distinctly felt: aoine openings also mar som**
times be felt in the bone. In either case the diseased bonc^
for when bare it is alwa^'S diseased — most be exposed com-
pletely, and freely »cra|)ecl with a rougine or drawing knife. It
Iliould llKn be tlressed daily with tincture of myrrlu When
I there is re«8on to aj^irebend exfoliation, the best plan i« tQ
hasten the separation of the bone by the applicntion of cauitiev
fltieh as diUili^) muriatic acid on a little tow. After the s^iara-
lion of the itcad hone, the part will soon gel well. It may
afterwards l>e dressed with lincliire of myrrh.
If the horse is u»d during the iirogn'fdi of the cure, a niaffle
should, if [lossiblei be substituted lor the curb.
I have known a similar ulcer form under the loogne, accoi»>
panied with considerable inflammation and swelling of tlic
modili, so as to prevent feeding for several days. A portion of
iIh' lower jaw-bone exfoliated, after which the part soon got »i'1l.
Sometimes, during dentition or teething, the whole mouth
becomes inflamed and sore, and this state generally extends lo
the stomach, causing loss of appetite. In such cases the excrfr
tory ducts of the sublingual glands being rather swollen, liave
been mistaken for a disease, and cut on. 'Hk* only tiling ne-
cessary in such cases is to keep the horse on bran muslies a short
time. No me<iicine is necessary, and bleeding is Ktidered un-
necesiarj' by the iosa of appetite,
In giving balls improjierly, the under ]>art of the tongue is
of^en laeeraied, which renders feeding painful, and makes the
horse slaver and froili at the mouth. 'HiU may be cured by a
solution of nliini, which iihoutd be thrown in with a syriiigfb
We sometimes find the firsit grimier so une<pudly worn, as tO
leave one part much longer than the rest. Thb often proves^
impediment to mastication, and should l>e struck ou withv
blunt chisel, and aflerwardi liled smooth. 'Hiis was forn>eHy
termed the wolf's tooth ; but the wolf's tooth of the pre«eflt
time, which ts still foolishly supposed to be a cause of ophthalmia
or inflamed eyes, is a denticole or very small tooth, which some-
times appears close to the firal grin*ier. Tliis, of cours«, do«
no harm, and should therefore never be removed.
The practice of lying a lioric's tongue to prevent bjju from ruo-
DliCARU O? TUB MOVTH, HTC
l»9
niti{[ away may not be rrrqnrnt, but I have known it done, «n<i tlic
loss of the tongue wai tl»e con44-t{ni'tire. Three cast-i orilii* kind
I beve met with : one I was tolil of hy itve pervoii who did ti,'«iid
who cut off the iwoIImi part of l)ie tongue to relieve ll>e aniiiml
from his intolerabk >ufferinRs, the ligature being buried m the
enormout swelling that had uken place. Two otiiers I have
iKnrd of, in which the tongue was literally drawn out by the
roots. Ilio tno«t common manner in which the tongue is
Woimdcfl h, by tlie horse hanging back when he is lied up with
a coil of llic halter in hn itiouth and over ihc tongue; or, as it
h vn^nrly termed, with a rhrtc or riuiw in bb tnoutb.* The
oreans of swallowing may be injured by tlw practkv of giving
iMuh, especially when tlM-y are largtr cm- Itard. A nwrbid suite
or the pharynx a tfa<'reby iiiduceil, which renders deglutition
difficult, and soinetinx-* im[K>sMl>li-, the lower |»rt of the pharynx
act^uiring a morbid irritability, which causes it to contract upon
the approach of the food, and return it into iIk noetrils, or uito
the mouth, where it is oflen re-mast icaled, and at length thrown
out into ilie manger like a quid of tobacco.f Such horses luvo
been named qitidden by deuers, and are considered of little or
no value: such cases are often incurable, and Bometimc* >a
because not understood. Were the horse, in the curly stage
of the diwoae, kept a few wveks od gruel and bran-maslic^ and
then turned to grass, the muecles of deglutition would sometimes
gradually recover llteir lost power.
I have lately met with a case, in a man?, where bolli swallow
ing and breathing were impeded by idccrntton of the pharynx,
or upper part of tl>e ccsoplmgus or gullet, produced protiably by
her Itaving suullowed liavlily wmr hard or sliarp subelajioe,
such no a ^uib of wood, or llic uiirhowcd »ialk of a dock, thi^itle,
fern, or bramble. The pain and irritation which swallowing
occasioned caufol rnti^bing, and some of the food to be thrown
into (he noitriU, and some into tlte larynx, wtiere it produced a
grvsi deal of pain and difficulty in breathing, so much w that
llie^' were about to destroy the animal. But I afforded great
relief by making an opening in the windpipe, and passing a
surgeon's probiing into the opening, and up ihrough the larynx,
and then quickly withdrawing it. 1 then passed it up again,
and wttlidrew it a second time, in order to remove completely,
* The Editor hw met vltli muay cbsm in which the lonpic hiu been
4liriilciJ io ihit nunncr, luiil a f«>otl portion of it rut off; hut ihouKh the
bonta br soma linic w«rc unMe lo'tnkc their actuciomcd fao<l, }-p[ ttiu
raaMining jportioa ct ibo tongvc padanlly uccomiiKxIaicd iurlf to ilic mouth,
bccoaiBg naCUr bmI flexible, nnJ at lengUi viip»l>k o( gnthciing up the Tooil
u well H before.
t Sometlines there >* a pnrtisl pnlsy of the roiiiclcs ciiiiilo<[cil in il<ghit>iion,
hy whicb the Miuinl hMbocn gnidunlly stnrvctl.
1) 4
mSEABES or THE noRSK.
or as far as could be, whatrrirr might be lo(lfi;«d in the laiynib
I put two stitches in ibc skin over tlic opening in the windpipe
tad did noihinf; more The mare was greatly relieved, aw
brought up a colt she had. When the colt was fit for wcwiiiift
the mtirv Itciiig of little value, was destroyed, and tltcn IK
iilcenition iti the pharynx was discovered. 1 saw ilie animal
just bt^fore ^e waa killed, and (bund her brt.'nthing freely and
looking tolerably well (considering *\*c had been kept at ffva,
and on n common), and with a good uditer of mtlk. But tin
ovmer infonnt-d mv that ilie upiK-ared .soineiime« much (^
trtiaed, and coughed n great dcoC probably by some food sliU
getting iato the mrjnx.
Obttrmlioiu in the fEtophofftu
r produced bv pieces of carrots or turnips, or by balla nvn
as medicint-. When carrots or turnips nn* used as arlicks of
diet, ihey sliould be cut into thin *Viw*; but thry are loo fre-
quenily chopped into jiink^ one of which li sometimes bolted
mid »lickB in ilie gullet. The obstruction may also bt- produced by
ball* given as iiiediciiie. Cases of tins kind ought never to occur;
for balU, when properly niade and skilfully gifen, will pass into
tl>e stomach with certainty and ease. Balis may al»o itick to
the pjuiryiix, and tl»en tl>ey may be drawn out with the liond.
Such cases occur more frequently llinn the former; and from
not being understood, the ball gei>eraily remains untU gradually
disaoivofi, or till it is thrown into the nostrils, where it catua
considerable inflammation, and such u discharge of roatler w
has been mistaken for the glanders.
I have known ball* «tick in the ccs<^>hagus or gidlet, and so
low <luwn in the pitysage as to be out ol sight and not suspected.
] have known three hories destroyed in iliis way. In two of
them tlie lull waa wrapped in brown paper; and in one the ball
was as hard as sione, and had destroyed the internal membrane
of the (esophagus. These cases prove the necessity of giving
bail* when recently made, and not too hard or large. I'o avoid
tliin evil, in giving a ball we should never be satisfied until we
str it pass down the grester mrt of the ixsophagus.
[If the olieiruclion lie in itie throat, it may often be removed
by the hand ; but if it cannot be reached, an instrument called a
piubang, coiisisiing of a long piece of whalebone, with a handle
at oiK> end and a ball of wood at the other, should be cari>fully
passed down tite ccsouhagus so as to force itilo the stoniach ilte
obslruciing body. 'I'ltis probang has been lately improved by
Mr.Simotids, who has invented an instrumetit to extract the
object by the maiitli, which, in sonic cases, is preferable, and
indeed the only method practicable.
ACOTB AND CBROKIC KBCtTMATtSM. 201
ir tlie object caniioc be rcfnovrd by tlits iih-iIkx]) wo miHt iben
ttavv rL-cour»i.' to (hv operation of cctopliagototDy.
I'hc borav'c brad bviii^ rlcviitcd, a careful incision h made
llirough tlte *kiit niiil ibc coats of lt>e i«sopliagu», Hutfieicmly
large i» jH-miit tltc rt-iiioval of ttic ob^truciing body, 'i'lio >kin
ftlinuld aftt-rwtirda U- united by atitctics, and the wound ki-iit
clean. No food sWuld be allowed for some hours alierwanU,
and should be then given in a soft BUte. — En.]
HopMs aometimes, wfben feeding on very dry oau mixed wiili
bran, will have their throats so irritated at (o cough ; in doing
which a small poruon of the fowl, during tlie viok-nt inspiration
that is made, may get into tin- ]nn,-nx and Htick in llio nma or
cbink of llie glottis, and causv the iiwst dreadful trritution, and
in a Khort timo suflbcalion, tinles* the small portion of food —
|>crliapH a single oat, or one particle of bran — which occasions
It is removed. When this bftp]>en3, an opening is to be made
in tlie wii)dpi|}e, and a surgeon's probang pa^seil up through the
chink and <)uii:kly wittidrawn. After the operation, one stitch
-abould be put iu the skin, aiwl nothing n>ore done.
CHAP. XL.
ACtlTB AND CIIKOKIC RIIKUUATISM.
Aettte ItbeumatuM (A Cbilf).
[This diH'asc is by no means unfrpqucnt. It niJiiears to coiisii^t
principally of an inllamroalion of the muscles of ilie bhoulder, or
of tlkc loiiu and hind Quarters (the former most frequently), and
sometimes complicatea with severe inflammation of the chest
and its conlt-iils. Sometimes the joints are principally affected ;
and I liiivc met with cases in which llit: dUi-aae has gone from
one joitil to anolher, almost ihruiighoui ilie body. In a late
caae that came under my notice) severe lameness affected each
leg. one aAer the other, until the animal could not stand;
fleurisy aupen'ened, and the animal died after six weeks' illness.
found, as I expected, nilhesions of the pleura; water m llie
heart-bag; considembU- dirieaie of the muscle*, tenduns, and
joinu; besides which the liver was thickened and diseased, and
an abscess fonnwl in tlie lungs. — Ei>.]
The manrKT in which this disease somelimea appears (o be
produced is the cause of its having bwn named a chill; for ic
often liappens, when a hoiie has been violently exercised, that
he is juflenii to stand in a current of air to cool, or left there
through negligence or drunkeiuiess, and soiiieliraes until he is
■
niSCAKES or TUB BORSB.
M
acvwl/ able to move. Hut a more commoti iTM'iho<1, an<i. tin-
fortiimitely, one too of^en authorised hy tlie ion-kevper, or
coach-inauer, — for tlKin sre the Iwtws most conimotily m
treated. — is tliat of plunging th(>m into the pond; and, not
wilUfied with a thori immersion, they are generally kept there
for the purpose oF washing the corriago also. The apologj' fix
this practiev is, that the horws are ilterebv refrcslted; but tht
indtici-ment really i*, I Ix^lievot that it mvos trouble. Them-
juiy this do«s is not alway* inimetltate, nor is it alw-aya percvp-
lible ; but oik' tiling |M»t- master* may re»t assured of, it al«a}«
oocnsioiis mma degree of muscular dt-^Hliiy. It must not be
>iipposo<), however, that imnieraion in cold water will alone do
this miK'hier; on the contrary, in summer, when iliey have no
work, but ai-e merely exercised, lliey are grtaily refreshed and
benefiied by it ; the mischief arises m consequence of prtvious
exhaustion by excessive exertion.
[The a/mplmu of Utis disease usually appear somewhat lud-
denly, and are, grrat slilTness, and inability to move; severe
pain ; considerable fever ; quick, strong, and full pulse, 70 or
80 in a minole ; the respiration is very quick ; tlie dung generally
hard, anil covered with mucus ; but the skin and legs are warm,
and the horse prefers a siatidin^^ posture, unless the joints are
severely alTerted. 'Ilie blood, wlien drawn, is almost invariably
covered with a thick bufiy coat.
The disease generally is not attended with a fatal terminaiion,
howerer severe may be the s^nnptoms, unkits tlw internal viscera
are nnieh aiTfcted, and th<-n ii it usually taial.
'I'ite appetite is not diininist»e<l in proportion to the severity
of the otlier symptoms. There is in this complaint n great d»*
)>ofition to mrtattasia. The disease flies from one part to ano*
ther, and very frequently to the feel.
Trtatmettt, — The hor^ must be hied very copiously, until,
indeed, the puls« bccomi-s almost imperceptible; and iJiis ahotild
be rc|)ciiti-«l as ol\en as the pulse becomes hard and ktroiig.
Back-riikiug ami clystering must next follow, and the latter be
fV^qiHtitly repeated. 'Hie following draught shotild tlien be
given : —
Aloes, dissolved in varm water 3 dr.
Linseed oil I pinL
Tartariscd antimony 1 dr.
Nitre 3 dr.
Spirit of nitrous ether 1 <»i.
Mix.
If the lungs amwar to be inflamed, ilie aloes should be
omitted, ami also if the dung is not liard.
If the loins arc at all aflected, a warm sltcep-skin should be
ACUTZ AND CIIIIONIC RlirX'MATIliU.
203
laid on ; and ihb, indeed, in the lx«t a]>[)licntion for itio Rliotilders
too. U'ii cannot be procured, ii stimulating liniini-nt should be
iqi plied instead.
The following draught aliouUI be given every twelve lioun : —
Nitre '2 dr.
Tartarised antimonj- 1 dr.
Camphor, powdered 1 dr.
Spirit of nitrous ether 1 02.
Warm water IS 01.
If tl>e kidn«yK n])|)<>ar to be affected, the nitn; must be
omitted.
As there it gmt danger of fever in the feet taking place^
wliich may partl^' ariiw from ilie hoi-se standing so constantly in
one poaitiun, this should be guarded against by removing the
limes, and potilticing the feet.
The treatment may bt- continued for several days, modified,
liowever, according to the tympionia. If tite lungs appear to be
alTccied, the treatnient recommended for its diseases must, in
some measure, be resorted to. — Eo.}
I
k
[rftroittc Bhfumatimi
P"
€
I
Is s disease of similar nature to tliat before mentioned ; but uf
le« severity, though of greater obstinacy. It atfecu the muscular
and tendinous fibres, tTie ligaments, tn« joints, and even the
bones themselves. It often ilies from part to ])art, and exists
for weeks and months, and sometimes prove* inciimble. In
the joints it is sometimes attended wiili swelling, hcul, and
tenderness; and, in some cases of rhcumiitic kimnH-Hs, tht-re is
no swelling or other appearance to indicate its situation; and
we can only infer that it is rheumatic by its going olT uder
a little <'xcrcisc, and being somelinu-s piTinaniMitly cured by a
tlose of pliysic. Whenever lanieiieM occur*, anii, ujier a mrtful
examtJWtioa aitit inquiry, tto etaite eim bt Jhitml jhr it, and it
goes off again after a little exercise, we may conclude that it is
' leumaiic.
I luve met with cnse« of rheumatism in which a mild dose of
lysic has operated with great violence; so much so, titat it was
necessary to give some arrow-root ci-uel to resiraiti the purging.
'llie 'JVtatmfil sliould consist of bleeding, laxatives, and stimu-
lants to the parts affected. Opium may also be given with ad-
vantage.
Tliere is a disease, somewhat of the nature of rheumatism,
that occasiunally nttacks tlie sucking toal, and ts often fatal. It
tmi noticed by English writers, l>ut hu lately been described
DISIJURS OF TIIK HOBB
by foreign BullioritJos ; M. I,ocoq' haviiig wrilton an dalio-
rate paper on the clUcaiK-, util Si, IXOworl of BniKscU dc-
BcribcHl It more brivfly. I1»c lattiT Mvt, " Colu, wlitle at tlie
tMt, arc sulijrct to inflamniation of l)w tiasues concvriieO in tixt
formation of iliv joint*. It U first annonnnHi liv an unwilling-
I IMU to more^ and the indication of slight pain witen the ariicu-
' ladona are pressed upon, lite articutations that are generslly
allAcked are th« knees, the hocks, and ttie fetlocks. In propor-
tion as ttte disease gains ground, tlie colt losee his spirits ; be
seldom goes to the udder, and be bucIu witli difficulty. The
artiealattons become more tender and painful ; tl»c surrounding
ceUDlar tisane is infiltraiod with a srrous fluid, and an oedema-
tous enlargement is formed. The di<4-ii»e assumes a more ajt-
gravated form; the Utile suhjecl ran sejircelj raise liiinself from
the ground, and l>c can ctatid but a little while. He i» only
able to suck by being held up to tlie udder. As soon as Iw is
no longer able 10 rise, lie refuses every kind of food ; lio ia ge-
literally eoiiitipaied, alihougli tltere is •onietimea diarHiceO) and
deatli occurs in from six to ten days.
"The principal lesions that are observed are found in the
region of the joints. T1>e tissues are infiltrated willi a yellow
scrofiiiy; the quantity of synovia is increased, and the articula-
tions are more or less enlarged. Sontelimes there are spou of
inflammation on both the small and large intestines.
" So far as our observations have extended, wc have traced
its principal causes to the stale of the mother ; whether her
Ibod lias been of too exciting a naturC) or she has been placed
in mobt or ill-veniitated situations. ,
"The remedy consists in submitting llui marc to an antiplilo-
^stic treatment, and giving gruel and straw, or but a small
portion of hav. The littk patient should be ptace<l on fresli
litter, and frtclton with camphonted spirit.i of lur|)entine or
ammonia applied lo his limbs. If the animal cannot gel up
without much difficulty or jmin, it must be brought many lime*
in llie day to the mother, and held to the teat as long as it will
•uck. Il these measures appear to have little effect, vesication
must be applied to the diseased parts. Costiveness must be
obviated by emollient injections. If it will not suck, or luu not
learned to ^iick. the milk should be drawn from the n>other, and
he should be plentifully supplied with it." — En.]
* Vet. vol. xiti.
snzoonc or epidemic diseases. 205
CHAP. XLI.
EPIZOOTIC OR EPIDEMIC DISEASES.*
[From time to time, in all ages of the world, diseases of nn
epidemic, or rather epizootic character, have appeared, and
destroyed vast numberB of horses and cattle.
It will be unnecessary to go back to times of remote an-
tiquity, although numerous are the instances that might be
adduced from classical authors of the most severe epizootics
having extensively prevailed; and in all probability, from the
absence of draining, and the marshy and unhealthy situations
of many parts of the then civilised world, these maladies were
more virulent in their nature, and more fatal in their conse-
quences, than those which have prevailed in modern times.
" In 1714," says Mr. Youatt in his Lectures, " a malignant
epidemic was imported from the Continent, and in the course of
a few months destroyed 70,000 head of cattle. In horses, the
disease was almost uniformly ushered in by inflammation of the
mucous membrane of the respiratory passage, but soon involving
other portions; and then ensued diarrhoea, which no art could
arrest. The fever, acute at first, soon passed over, and was
succeeded by great prostration of strength. The inflammation
now spread to the cellular texture, and there was a peculiar
disposition to the formation of phlegmonous tumours; some-
times there were pustular eruptions, but oflencr deep-seated
tumours, rapidly proceeding to suppuration. Connected with
this was a strong tendency to mortification ; and unless the
animal was relieved by some critical flux or evacuation, malig-
nant ^phus was established, and the horse speedily sunk."
Our next account refers to two epidemics related by Gibson,
one in 1 732, the other two years subsequent ; the first occurring
towards the &I1 of the year, the second towards the spring or
summer. The former appears to have been precisely similar to
our epidemic catarrh, and attended with considerable nasal dis-
charge, and unaccompanied with danger ; whilst the latter dis-
ease was more fatal in its effects, was accompanied with a burning
fever, soreness of the skin, loss of appetite, costive bowels, and
followed by swelled legs. We recognise In the last nearly all the
symptoms of ittfiuenxa, particularly as it presents itself to our
notice in warm weather. Gibson treated both these diseases by
■ E;ndemic literally signiHcs b disease aCtacking numbers of men; while
cpiiootic refers to cattle, and is therefore Hiorc correct in this ploce. They
arc each derived from tnro Greek wortla.
908
DISEASSl or THK HOUX.
blf^injT at first, and the latter with aperients also ; and hr say^
hii tri-atiivent was £ucce»ri]l.
We next avail oursdvn of Mr. Youalt's admirable Lectures,
in quoting an account of an epidemic thai prevailed on the
Continent in I7t<a. Wc «carcrly know, however, whether we
' correct in styling it an epideinic) u it nrcmi rallier (o have
nJemUj having been confuted to particular localities, and
lo hare bad reierence to a poisonoua and improper diet. lu
syntptoms were low and malignant, its progress rapid, and uv-
|jnination usually fatal. In 1795, we find that a (usraae ra^cd
in Paris and its vicinity, attended, as, indeed, almost all theK
Continental epizootics appear to have been, witti low typltoid
.symptoms Treatineiii was in general nugatOfy, and blood*
IJetting decidedly injurious; the evacuations were livtid, the
debility great, and death usually closed the »;ene. In 1815,
and again in It^tiS, we appear to have l>ad a fatal epiKootic in
[this country, attended witti KwclUng* aiKl ulcerations in varioui
pirts but we regret tlut no uutlwiitic account of the** di«eases
biu l>een furnished.
We next come to tite pages of the t'rtrrinarian, and And, in
the first volume, a pai>er from Mr. Brown, de«cribiiig the ep^
detnic as it came under his uolice in the early part of llie year
1&26. In some measure it Aseinbled, in other res]>ects it crntlly
[differed from llie induenza of 1836. It hbs accompanied by
complicated inflammation, diarrlraea, and considerable debility.
Mr. Brown found that an aniiplilogislic mode of treatment ali>
gctlier failed, but a Ionic and supporting system proved gi-nerolly
euccesaful.
Mr, GloBg gives an account of an epizootic which made its
appearance in the rcginieiu of huxzars under his care, and
proved exceedingly latul. It does not appear lo have been
influenza, but a dueuse of typlwid character, presenting from
'ils outset tlte greatest debility; forbidding the slightest depiction,
but requiring a supporting systetn of treatment. Th« latter
cases proved succesitol ; but they were by no means allendcd
[ with such malignant symptoms as characterised the earlier ones-
Id diseases presenting such analogj- of typhus as this appears lo
have done, it would be proper to cotuider it inrcctious, and to
•vail ounvlrea of tlie fumigating powers of nitric acid gas, which
[lias proved to available in fevers of the human subject. — Ed.]
[For several years pastadiseasehasmost extensively prevailed
amongst horses ilirougb nearly every part of the kingdom.
1'hougli not, pcHinps, entirely a new complaint, as some have
supposed, it is yet tingiilar as regards iu attack, sparing neither
IKPLUENZA. S07
(he young nor the old, the slronf; nor th« feeble, n^gardlefls alike
of tlie BeBfion of the year or the stluation of (he sDot in which it
might ap{>car; sometimes appearing tinder a milu and hannless
nspectf at other times accompanied with the moetserere internal
indamniAtioDB, and leaving in its train the mvftges of deat)).
liy uiiivL-r»tl cotiM-nt tliis maU<ly has been recognised by the
term influenia, and, perhaps, no other word can better express
its tendency to spread; though at the same time tt mitst be
confeiwd tluit this very term is likely, from analogy, to deceive
tttc ij^ioranl, and to hdl many persons into n faUe security with
reg<>rd (o the rrefjiieiit severity nn<l danger of iIk- complaint.
For allhougit, piTliKjxs in all eases of inHiienxa tlwre are (vrtnin
uniform general symptoms, yet caseti can be eiied where tlie
most essential diHereiioe prcvuils, both wiili regard to its
^mptonis and the danger attending it, and thus it is itut we
find sitch very diHerent ideas arc entertained in (he minda of
Ibepublic with regard to this disease.
This disease prevailed most extensively in 1836, throughout
all parts of (he kingdom. NnrnerouK nccounts of it may be
found ill tile Cfirrinarian for that and the fnlluwing year, anil
llie whole is emlMxIied and annlyM-tl in a liislorical and critical
treatise on the ili.ica.-H> publislKid by the editor of (his work in
t@37, ontl whence (lie previous account of opixootic diseases is
abstracted.
In the autumn of last yrar, (he infltieiua, which for nearly
lour years had di^p^iearird, again mmle itx ap|>«-arancc, and
proved exceedingly prevalent in various parts of ttie country.
11te following comprbea tl»e greater portion of an essay written
by myself, ana reaa before iTie members of the Veterinary
Medical Aau)ciation in London, [t will serve to show ilic
symptoms, nature, and treatment of the disease.
" The inHuenin iiuide its appearance in this locality during
the month of :Sepiember, and lias continued up to ()tu pnicnt
time. My fint cases were f<.-w bikI isoIa(e<l, but (hey gnidually
become more numerous and more accumulative, 'i'lie symptoms
were very similar to those of tlie epizuoiie of 1696, at any
rate suiBcieiilJy so to justify roe in denominating it the same
disease.
" Symptom*. — The first symptom that awakened atteiit ion was
the sudden Giilurc of the appetite, which was either tuial or inr-
tial ; the Iwrsfi (K-rliaps, niiglit liave ai>|K-ared perfectly well in
the morning, and at noon he n'fujkxl his feed. If I was called
vn a( this Ktinge, I usually found the month hot, aiKt the pulse
J|uieketted, varying, however, from 4'2 to 80, lieing suinetimcs
uU and strong, but more freciueiiily soft and weak. There
was, generally, a somewhat dull ajipearaiice of the animal at first,
although nothing to what afterwards supervened ; the coat woa
i
906
VliSAKKB OF THE UORBE.
«iAaa Msrinfft and when bo. the attack nsunlly became more
wvere. This ^rin]>lom, howeter, was (ar from being )iiiivrr&»l.
The exiremilies were rarely cold. In tl)c course of six or
twelve boiirs, the symptoms became more ng^nivaied, tbe pu\st
increased in frequency, and the ai>[>i-titr more dimtni«hed, and
probably tlie legs and eyelids were contidcrably awollra. In
some casit itic mpiration becamv quickened, and in othcrt
tlieri! wan cougb iind nore ibrnat, but in the majority of my
IMtteiitit ibere wtu no broncbial nffitiioa whatever.
" In a few in*taitce«, tlie disease quickly reached its acm£, but,
generally, the aymptoniii iticreaued in severity for two or tiirrr
davi, when, lu^uxwinj^ jiidic'toiis treatment had been em|ilo}'cd,
they gradually (It^liiied, and at length totally disappeared, tlie
animal slowlv regaining his former health and spiriic.
" The bowels, generally eiH-aking, were not apparently much
deranged, but their mucous coat was particularly susceptible to
the action of aperient medicines; and the faeces were frequently
enveh^ped in lliin slimy mucus, and oft<m softer than tn a eute
uf health.
" In Mine cases the aflrciion of llie eyes was w violent u Id
oct^on lemjtorary blindness ; and in others piteuinonin was pr^
aeni, but more frcipii-nily severe bronchilii. In ntnny |Mticnti
the a>demalous swelling ol' tlu* legs was enormous, and continued
obstinate when the other symptoms hod abated; but, cominonlj>i
in propoi-tton as tite legs and eyes were Hnuch afTecicd, the ia-
icrnal viscera were free from disease, and vin txrgd. This rale,
however, was by ito means universal, for in several iiatienti
sievere cephalic and tlionicic symptoms were present in the same
subject, and at the same time.
" When an animal had been previously sufTering from Mme
chronic disease, such oa broken wind or hepaiiicd lungs, the
influenza was nearly sure to light up afresh the embers of
former fin*, and this local disease generally proved Iroubli ^
Hnd olutiiiaie. So, likewise, wln-n, fnmi the idiosyncrasy of the
niiimat, an organ was in u weak an<l susceptible state, itillamma-
tion in that jiart was <)iiickly excited by the general fever pre-
sent in the system.
*' The only cases that 1 have loai were two, with previously dis-
eased lungs. One was an extremely old broken-winded |iony
that sunk rapidly in the course of two or three (hiys, apparently
more from the weakness induced by old itge and broken wind
than from the amount of n<'W disease, which was by no nimni
great. The other case exhibited, during lift', very obtcurs
symptoms, which were in some measure explaitied by tl>e most
complicated inflammatory appearances after death, llie Inii^
the windpipe, the pleura, the pericardium, and tlie heart itselft
as well as tlie liver, exhibited the ravggea of the moat inleose
IKFLCESZA. 209
inflammatioii, appnadiiiig to gangrene. The lungs, as &r as
could be judged, iqipeared to have been antece^ntly diaor-
ganised. This aninial lived about fifteen days. In tbe earlier
stage tbe pube was strong and Aitli and be was bled largely,
more so than any of my other patients.
" Tyeatmeiit. — Whenever the pulse was fnll and slrong, I ab-
stracted blood, and always, I imagine, with tbe best effect. In
such instances I observed tbe blood slow in coagulating, and
invariably presenting a buffy coaL I took great care, however,
not to alntiact too large a quantity ; and I found I could produce
the desired influence by half the quantity which, in ordinary in-
flammatory afiectioDS, it would be necessary to take away. The
amount of blood withdrawn was always determined by its effect
on the pulse, taking care, as soon as its character was materially
altered, and becoming softer and less perceptible, to pin up the
orifice. This alteration was somelimes produced by the loss of
4 lbs. of blood, oftener by 6 lbs., occasionally by 8 lbs., and in a
few instances by 10 lbs. In two or three cases where ibere ap-
peared to be severe internal inflammation, I repeated the blood-
letting on the following day, and in one case in the same day ;
but, as a general mle, even in cases where the pulse had on the
following day r^ained its strength and fulness, I abstained
from a second bleeding, trusting to medicine and the progress
of the disease to soften the pulse, which I found to lake place
commonly on the second or third day.
" I bad recourse to local venesection still more frequently than
to general bleeding ; indeed, whenever the eyes were much in-
flamed, or the lids swollen, I scarified the latter with a lancet,
and opened the angular veins, which course of procedure 1 found
attended with the best results; for the local inflammation gene-
rally subsided in the course of twelve or twenty-four hours,
whether I had bled generally before or not.
" On re&rring to about 6fty cases, I find that in twenty-three
I employed general bleeding, in the remainder I did not ; but in
twenty-five cases I bled locally, either from the eyelids and veins,
or the bars of the mouth. The majority of these were cases in
which I had not bled previously, and the minority belonged to
those in which 1 had before employed venesection. More than
one half of the horses that were bled generally were from the
same stable, principally young carthorses that had been recently
purchased, and aflerwards worked very hard. They had also
been allowed a considerable quantity of beans, a diet to which
they had not previously been accustomed.
" Among these horses I found my severest cases often compli-
cated with pneumonia, bronchitis, and other visceral derange-
ment. In them, too, the blood presented a thick buffy coat, and
the pulse was strong and full.
r
SIO DISEASES OP THE HORSE.
((
' My uEual treatment in the way of medicineB eoDBiBted in ai-
ministering the following : ^
Crotonoil 5 drops.
Nitre 4 to 6dr.
Tartarised antimony 1 dr.
Spirit of nitrous ether 4 to 6 dr.
Spirit of mindereruB 2 to 4 ok.
Warm water sufficient to form a draught.
" Sometimes 4 drachma of bi-tartrate of potash were added to
the above ; and wlien tlic head appeared much aflected, 1 drBchm
of camphor. This draught was administered generally once,
but sometimes twice a day, the croton oil being omitted after
tlie first dose. After ilie first day, in by far the greater number
of cases, 2 drachms of centiau wore added to the draught; and
after the second or third day a ball was substituted for' the
draught, consisting of —
Nitre 3 dr.
Tartarised antimony 1 dr.
Gentian 2 dr.
Pimento 1 dr.
" In one case the above draught produced profuse perspinuioo
immediately after, and each time it was administered. Altbondi
this effect may be principally ascribed to the idiosyncrasy of a*
animal, yet it proves the diaphoretic properties of the medicine^
although tliis may not generally be distinctly perceptible.
" Counter Irritation. — In by far the greater number of caaei
there was no inflammation of the air passages; but whenever it
was denoted, I blistered the throat, the course of the windpipei
and the breast, or inserted setons or rowels, as the particuur
case appeared to demand.
" Such is a brief, but I trust a succinct account, of the t^Ga^
nient I have found successful, not only in conquering the dii-
ease, but in restoring the health and strength in a short space
of time. Although the majority of cases were not dangerous
yet many of them were so ; and it is notoriously the fact, that t
groat number of horses have died from the disease in varioui
places. Indeed, in the establishment to wliich I have referred)
Uiroc horses died from it under the care of another person, not
a member of the College ; and in several instances where honei
have been treated by the owners, although the case was not
dangerous, they recovered but slowly, and with great loss of
condition.
" General Remauks. — I have found in the present ^idemic
a greater disposition to cedematous swelling of the extremilie*
and sheath than in that of 1630 ; and so obstinate, occasionally,
wore those enlargements, that they were reduced with mndi
INFLUENZA. 211
difficulty, and only after the frequent and continued employ-
ment of diuretics, and the insertion of eetons in the thighs.
There likewise appeared to be throughout the attack a capa-
bility of taking large and repeated doses of diuretic agents with-
out exciting the kidneys in any great degree. At least double
the quantity could be given, and with no greater action than
half the quantity in a state of health.
" In one place where I attended, the prevailing epizootic was
raging amongst sheep, and at another place amongst cattle;
but the owners required no professional assistance, as they in-
formed me they readily cured the affection, both of the feet and
the mouth, by the application of salt and tar. Are these dis-
eaaes to be attribute to the same cause as that producing
iofluenza in horses ? And is it not probable that the influenza
will appear amongst mankind during the approaching winter
or spring, as it succeeded the disease in horses in the year
1836?*
" As I lind at this, the eleventh hour, that it is impossible to
be personally present when this paper is submitted to the con-
sideration of the members of the Association, I think that I can-
not do better than atone for my absence by instituting a few
qneations naturally springing out of the foregoing account; not,
however, with the expectation of being enabled satisfactorily to
■olve them, but in order to provoke profitable discussion, and
a0brd, as it were, some useful pegs which may serve the purpose
of suspending many valuable lacta and observations on. For
my part, I shall be contented to act as the humble pioneer,
leaving to you the mightier task of clearing away all impeding
doubts and difficulties.
" 1st. To what came mutt we attrilmte the iiifiuenza f
„ On this point I must refer to the theory of your esteemed
patron. I can go so far with him as to believe that, in common
with the epizootic amongst cattle, it is derived from some pecu-
liar atmospheric poison, the nature and the source of which I
do not profess to know. I am not inclined to consider that it
can be assigned to the influence or fluctuation of the weather,
although I Delieve that these changes will considerably modify
tbe symptoms ; for it is a fact worthy of especial attention, that
the disease made its appearance, and continued to prevail, in
this neighbourhood, during the prevalence of remarkably fine
and genial weather.
" 2dly. It the blood the teat of the disease ?
** In my opinion, certainly not ; for I have found it in two very
oroositc conditions, — one slow in coagulating, and presentinga
thick and firm bufiFy coat; the other dark-coloured, quick in
* This supposition vas verified by the appearance of the human inliuenzB
in the fatlowmg spring.
p 2
D1SEA9K8 or TRB HORSE.
congiilHtiiig, ami with iw buflj- eiiHticc. TIm* fonner appetr^H
I haw inviii'inblv fuuiK) coiiitwicd will) a utrong imd lull poMf
the l»tt<T aitcndi'd by n woak »ofl piilM- ; but quick in both b-
stnncf*. I'tidcr iIr- liut-mciitionifl circuin*Uirid.'«, 1 bled in Ywy
few iiuuuictrt, and t)icn only in small quuiiliticx; but 1 hsive lid
doubt ilie nppcnrimccT of ilir blood wotdd linvc bci^ii tbc MiTSQfl
every cjum in whii-li I absliiincd from gciicul bU-cdiiig. "^B
appeanutM' of tbc blood, and tl>c stale of the pul»e, sre, pro-
bwly, rniluT to be ntlribnicd to the idiosyncrMV of tbe pauienl,
and ihe diet to wlilcli lie lind bc«'n aceiiKtomed, ttinii to the efRfcI
of the (lUeiuc. I roiiici<le with your president'* opinion, dial
the »tnlo of tile bliKxl ought lo have liitle or tvo iutUience «»«
our ircAinieni of dinetise; but 1 cniuiot go m> far as lo ditcanJ
it altogether from considiM-slion. 1 mun confer that 1 alfiMSl
nlwaya examine its appearanee after veiieseclion, wliieh, however,
cat) be a»c<>rtained a* well in n few minutes as in aa many
hour*: iuid in nn itiflnnimulory dlat^ise 1 am always pleased U>
find a huffy eoat. for it axxurc:< nie thnt, a I any rate, my pAtieiil
can endure bloodlftting. In a cn.-ie in which I may be in
doubt as to the proprieiy of n-pcnting the withdrawal of blood-
being, perhaps, infliK-nciHl, pro and «<n, by equally weighty m-
eons — I should ineline to the performance of tlie aet if Hx
blood, at ihe previoii-i abstruelion, had presented a fibrous O0M<
This, however, ts n dij^ceuion for which 1 must apologise, and
return to another (jiiery.
*' 3dly. Hherf, tfirn, w (Ar itat of (ht diaeoK ? or in wkat daa
it contift f
" Surely not in the presence of any sympiomn thai, howem
frequent, are yet in sonie ca»e« wanting. And il i» a curioai
fiiet, respecting the qniek pulM>, the lumefaciiou of the exirifiK-
lies and the eyelids, the lows of appetite, the affection of tlw
llirout or tbe lnng«, that however frequent llie*e nppeni-ancev
be, yt-i iliere are some inelances in which one or more of tl
are absent. 'I lie oidy eymptonu universally present are (em
and prostration of strength. We must, ihei-efore, regard it aaa
fever xui ^fneri*, in which the mucous membranes are consider-
ably affected, and the nervous sy»ieni greatly deranged. It will
run its courM-. Tbi-re ts no knocking it down. All tliatwt
can do iw to regulate its progn-M, to u>ocleralc its fury, and to
••tsiat Nature in iier own o[K-ruiioiis. We may, indeed, conquer
by a siegi-, but not by an msnult.
" 4lhly. It bbrtlitff d/'nirabh in Ihit nrmfJainty
" On this question I do not cx[)ect your members to fight over
again the well-contesied battle* of ISJfi-? ; but il will, |>erhuji«i
l>e interekiiiig iigaiii to canvavt the opinions of many of ihoW
who then fought in the Ibniuost ranks, mid to ascerlatii whel)i«r
any, and iruny,wltatalliTatJon,liii« taken place in Uieir upiuion*
INFLUENZA. 313
from ruminating over the cud of reflection during four years.
My own opinion is iihown by my practice. I cannot say that it
faaa undergone any change, or, if there be any, it slightly leans
towards the side (without, however, entering the ranks) of the
t^ponents of venesection. I take it for granted that the chief
art in treating the diaease is to know when to bleed, and when
to absuin ; being guided in this matter chiefly by the state of
the pulse. Where, however, I have not bled generally, I have
witnessed the very best effects from local bleeding. It has, in a
few hours, relieved the tumefaction of the eyelids, and the
heaviness of the head, to a great extent- One thing is most
clear, — we can produce a very great effect on the system by
moderate bleeding.
" 5thly. /* aperient medicine judicious ?
" Tills, too, is an old disputed point. I am myself in favour
of a very moderate dose at the commencement, but against its
repetition. I have most commonly administered Ave drops of
croton oil, which has generally produced a sufficiently laxative
efiect. The addition of a few drops more I have known pro-
dace purgation. I am inclined to believe that a very moderate
action on the intestines will hasten the recovery of the patient.
" I have been required to attend several cases of superpurga-
tion from the administration of full doses of physic in this dis-
ease by empirical practitioners.
" In one instance 1 was called to see an animal which one of
these savans had previously visited, and for which he had im-
mediately put in practice the whole list of his remedies — a mild
dose of physic, a rowel in the brisket, a blister on the throat
(there was no affection of the air passages), and he was just going
to take away six quarts of blood ; but this the employer would
not permit until he had consulted me. I attended a few hours
afterwards, and, from the pulse, I deemed it prudent to abstract
about five or six pounds of blood, which proved bufiy. The
next morning I found the pulse mucli solder, and not increased
in quickness, the fever less, and the general symptoms more
favourable ; but, notwithstanding this, the man had been there
before roe, and, finding the physic had not yet operated, he
wished to give another dose, and to take away six quarts more
of blood. The owner fortunately declined his further assistance,
or he would certainly have destroyed the horse ; for, as it was,
in the succeeding night severe purgation ensued, anticipating
which I hadleft some medicine to counteract it. The appe-
tite, which a few hours previously had been improved, was now
totally gone, and the animal appeared in the greatest debility.
His recovery was, in consequence, very much protracted.
"6thly. Is the influenza infectious?
*' This question will admit of no absolute demonstration. We
214 DISEASES OF THE HOB8E.
must content oureelvea with reaBoning on the &cts that maj
come before us, and be satisfied with approaching the con-
Hnea of prolMibility. After a few scattered cases, I was called to
attend a pony at aome livery stables. A few days afterwards I
had another, and, in all, nine cases in these mewg. At this time
there were no other cases in the neighbourhood of these stabln,
but flix weeks afterwards 1 attended a case at another mews not
more than 100 yards distant from the former, and here I bad*
one after another, five cases.
"In the establishment where I had the Rreatest naroberof
cases, there was a young horse that indicated the approach of
strangles. He was removed to the hospital stable, in which
were several horses with influenza. He remained there eightor
ten days, getting on pretty well, when he suddenly showed the
symptoms of influenza, in addition to those he had before, and
his pulse rapidly rose from 46 to 80. This certwnly looks like
infection. On the whole, I am disposed to rcsard the disease
as infectious, believing, at the same time, that the greater num-
ber of cases are produced from tlie same unknown atmospherie
cause."
'iliere are several other useful communications on the sub-
ject of influenza in the Veterinarian, together with an interesting
debate. — Ed.]
CHAP. XLII.
GLANDERS AND FABCY.
Ghtiidert.
This is a contagious disorder, and one that is generally tliought
incurable.
[Its symptoms are a discharge of matter from one or
both nostriU, and enlargement of one or botli submaxillary
glands. When one nostril is affected only, the corresponding
gbiid is almost invariably found enlarged. The membrane of
the nostril, called the Schiieiderian membrane, is generally of a
pale or leaden hue; and sometimes ulcerations are visible on iB
surface. The discharge usually sticks to the nostrils, and ii
sometimes white and thick, but oftener of a greyish aspect
The late Professor Coleman divided the disease into two kinds,
which he termed the acute and the chronic ; the former being
cases in which ulcers were visible, and the latter in which none
could be seen. This dofinitiou, however, though sometimes
correct, is too arbilraiy for general admittance; for there are
. GLANDERS AND FARCY. filA
eases of acote glanders occurring without any ulcers being withio
sight. It is still, however, convenient to observe the terms acute
and chronic, to denote dilferent varieties of the disease. A dis-
charge from the nostrils, and the appearance of ulceration, is not
alone sufficient to establish the presence of the disease ; for these
ulcerations are sometimes produced by the acrid nature of the
discharge from catarrh. If the discharge is accompanied, from
the first, by an oilensive smell, the probability is that the case la
not glanders, but ozena. — Ed.]
The great number of horses that have been destroyed by
glanders, especially in the army, and in establishments where
grest numbers of horses are kept, has excited particular at-
tention to the subject, especially in France and Italy, where
many attempts were made, in the beginning of the last
century, to discover a remedy for it. 'I'he reader may form
some idea of the extent of such losses, when informed that
large innkeepers have been nearly ruined by them. 1 had
occasion to condemn eight horses at one time, in one esta-
blishment] which, added to those already lost, amounted in value
to 5Q0L In one regiment, 50 gtandered horses were shot in one
day. The Q3d French dragoons, when quartered in Italy, in
March, 1809, had 76 horses at one time affected with glanders
and , farcy, or suspected of being so affected. Lafosse, an emi-
nent French veterinarian, considered it as a local disease, and
thought he had discovered a successful mode uf treating ir, which
consisted in perforating the bones which cover the frontal and
nasal sinuses, and injecting through the openings astringentand
other liquids. After this opinion had been published, some
English farriers made trial of it, and by others detergent lotions
were poured into the nostrils; the nose being drawn up for the
purpose by means of a pulley. Attempts were also made to
cure it by arsenical fumigations, and by burning out the swollen
glands under the jaws, or sloughing them out by caustics. I'he
various preparations of mercury, copper, iron, and arsenic, have
likewise been tried, and after all, the general opinion is that the
glanders is incurable.
From the circumstance of horses having sometimes escaped
the disorder, though they have been standing in the same stall
or stable, or drinking out of the same bucket or trough with a
glsndered horse, many have been led to doubt its being con-
tamous ; and the little care that some large proprietors have
taken to prevent the spreading of the disorder, in consequence
of such opinions having been held, has been the cause of very
serious losses ; many instances of which have come within my
personal knowledge. That the glanders is contagious has been
clearly and indisputably proved by numerous experiments; and
tl)e manner in which it is prop^ated has likewise been satis-
p 4
S16
fiictoril)- demonslraled. At ihe same time, it ig gcnorall)- \x-
, iieved that ihc glanders takes p\aix alw indepenui-nt of con*
f lagion ; but from wliat causvs or circuniKtanccs it U then pn>-
duoed, no author lias aiieinpicd to state pneciBcly.
It lias bii-i) said, ia a genpral vmy. thai close uiiwhol<%on)e
I Btables, liard uork, and tiad proTeiiticr, suddvn c)uii)<{f« I'roni
' cold and wet wc-ailu'i' to hot close stables, hard work, and iti*
sufficient kc4-[>, and, in simrt, anj* thing that Mill witikcn tlie
animal considerably, is likely to produce glanders or farcy.
Thi-rc will be no danger in oainitlinc this opinion if, at die
&aii>c tiiiH', wc ki-ep in view the contagious nature of Ihe di>-
order, in whatever maimer it may be producetl. For if Mucb
L cruel and foolisJi treatment of liorscs does nut produce glaiiden
and farcy, it produces other disorders which are often more
speedily IJilal than glanders ; and if it does not actually produce
B disorder, it weakens the constitution to such a liifgrw that the
animal is rendered more su»ce])tible of the coiitaf;toti of f^laii-
(lers, a* well iLS of other di^eaies. It is from llii* cause that
glanders »])readB so rapidly among post aiKl stage coach bones,
while among horses of a dillereni < Inscription, ili progmi U
generally slow, Mr. Uussel, of Kxvier, had, for many years,
some glandered teams of horses constantly working from i^y-
inoutli to Exeter. Uitt they were worked with moderation, well
fed, and taken great care of. I attende<l these tea»» for several
years; the horses generally li>oke<l well, and in excellent con-
dition. Many of them lasted four or live years ; some fell off
I oTier a few months. As ilicy droppeil olf, llie teams were re-
iitforcvd by horse* that liappeiu^d to become glandered on on-
Ollicr lino of road belonging to the same proprietor, or b;
liartes free from vlanders that did not luiit other teams, or were
not supposed good enough for tliem. Such Ivorsea would some-
tinies escape the contagion, at otiters iliey would become glan-
tiered in a few weeks.
After some time, the penon who bud the care of ibe teams
from which these reinforcements used to lie drawn, became con-
vinced, by experiments, of the contagious nature of glandert,
and Uierefore diligently employed every precaution tbiM coultl
be thouglil of to prevent tlie disorder from occurring. In con-
1 sequence of this, and ilic great care tliat was taken on the line
of road where the glundercd horses were worked, tlie number
gradually diminisiied; and the last time I heard, there was not
one left. About the same time, I attended (be horses of Messrs.
Swc*l and Co., common carriers, of Kxeier, who had also a
team of gliiiKlercd horses. Here the woi'k was harder, and
BomewliAl irrc};ular. The feeding did not appear to be so care-
fully attcu<lcil to, nor whh tlie general inanageuu'iit of ttiose
horses in any respect so good as tliat of Mr. Kussel's. In con-
GLAHDSnS AKD FARCY. 217
sequence of this, the horses did not last bo long, and much loss
was sustained, bo much so, that the two concerns aiforded a
striking proof of the truth of a former observation, that it is de-
cidedly the interest of all horse proprietors to work those useful
animals with moderation, and feed them properly.
It has been said that glanders has oflen been produced in the
cavalry by putting the horses, immediately after coming from
camp, where they are constantly exposed to the weather, into
warm stables, and giving them the full allowance of oats. This,
it is true, has often brought on inflammatory disorders, which
were very destructive, and sometimes of the catarrhal kind : in
which case, they were accompanied with a discharge from the
nostrils. The acrimony of the matter would sometimes even
ulcerate the nostrils, and the disease would tlien be considered as
a decided case of glanders. 1 have known the distemper, or
epidemic catarrh, produce this effect.
In the distemper that prevailed in the summer of 1799,
several horses in the Scotch Greys were said to have become
slandered from the violence of the distemper, and were accord-
ingly destroyed. Such cases may have been of a different
nature from glanders, though resembling the disease in one
mrmptom, which is generally considered decisive of its being so,
that ia, in the ulceration within the nostrils.
[Later researches have fully proved that glanders may be
produced, not only by contagion and the causes before enu-
merated, but also by catarrh, either in its common or epidemic
forms, by strangles, and by inflammation of the lungs. In such
cases these diseases are said to degenerate into glanders. In the
last three cases that came under my attention, one was preceded
hy strangles, anotlier by bronchitis, and the third by catarrh,
^at form of the disease called bastard strangles, in which the
glandular swelling does not suppurate kindly, out becomes hard
and scirrhous, is very apt to degenerate into glanders. — Ed.]
In 1784, a law was enacted by the French government to
prevent any one from keeping a glandered horse, under a
penalty of 500 livres. Every animal suspected of glanders had
the words " suspected animal" impressed in green wax, on his
forehead ; and the penalty for selling such an animal, or offering
him for sale, was 500 livres.
Persons having suspected animals were to report the same
immediately to the mayor, syndics of villages, or other proper
authorities, under a penalty of 500 livres. Such horses were
then inspected by experienced veterinarians, or other competent
judges, appointed by the mayor or other officer, and if found
glandered were destroyed. If only suspicious, or suspected,
they were marked in the forehead as before described. At the
same time, a pamphlet on the glanders was published by order
218
of llic povcnimoiit, drawn ii|> l>y two eminent vpicrinarians, *it,
MM. Cliabc^rt nnd liiizfii'd. Ttii» inmphlct, winch was r^tib-
li&lH-d in the filll) yrttr of tlir Frcncli Krroluiion, viz. 1797|
contained inatructions for the rptiTinary surgcom employed
lo oxuminc susi^ctrd lior»«i, [xtinling out t)ic tleps they werelo
tiikc wii)i ro^iinl to lite conslilitlctl aullturitiesr and tbe pn>-
prU'iorx ofsuch irorsc*.
OIiukIpi's Iuib been ilivi(Ie<i into two etiuzcs, the ucutc and tlie
c'lronici or tlu; first and »ccond ilogc^ '1 nc acute glanders is
\ generally ailcndcd with iculc farxiyi Kuch its cliancrous idcersiton
about llio lips, face, or neck, with coiuidcrublc and painful
twellings on diifert-nt parts, wme of (he Kwdling app<iirin[' as a
forded vein, Ulcerntion nnd swelling of the hind leg or Bncoth,
or testicles, and KOinetiniCN of the fore leg, with iror<li-d veini,
and (arcy buds on the inside of tlio limb. 'I'he iieulc glandet*
often ■prt.'nds rapidly, and eillu.T dniroys the unininl, or i-cndcn
him siidi a pitiable and ho)>i-J<'» obji.'Ct, titat the proprietor i«
generally inditce<t to have him Itiioeked on the head.
Chronic glanders b gcnemlly vi ry mild in the lirst Mage of
the di-iordei', and doirt no[ nlVeet the iippciiie, or the general
heciUh and apiMMrance uf ilie imimal. Such hurfwa, when pro-
perly fed and taken care of, and worked with moderation, will
often eontinne in regular work for several years*
1 have been in the habit of attending Beveral IMimofglandcrcd
horsea since I left llie army, and have knowi] them last four or
five yeara. Somctitneii however, they would go utF in a few
■ mcmths; and wlK-nevcr a glandercd horse liill off niticli, aod
}>ccamc nneuuiti to Im work, l»c was detiroyed. Many gtandertd
hortcs have been known to get rid of the disorder while working
in thnc teams; and sound horses thai have been put in occa-
siohnlly to fdl up the toaiiui, especially old horses have neaped
tlic disorder. It ix this circtimatnnce, as I have bcibre stated,
that lias led rnniiy |« believe that the glanders is not contagious.
Tlie second stage of glaiiilers is marked by ulceration wilhhi
the nostrils, or an appearance in tl>e matter which indicates
nloeration, though sometimes too high up (o be seen. 'I'he
matter is in larger qiiantiiy, more glutinous, slicking about ilie
margin of the nostril and upper lipe, aud sontelimcs obsirucliiig
tlio parage of air, so that the horse makia a snuftling noise in
brcMbing. The matter is sometimes streaked with blood ; and the
horse sometimes bleeds from the nostrils in working Wi>en diis
ha)>ppns in the first stage of the disorder, however early it may
be, II indicates the approach of the second singe. The matter
begins lu have an ollensive smell, which it scarcely ever has in
the first Blage, though an offensive smell is by many supposed
to bo a decisive mark of glanders. In the second stage, the
matter generally runs from both nostrils ; the glands under tbti
GLANDERS AMD fARCY, 219
jaw become larger, harder, and fixed more closely to the jaw
bone. They are also generally more tender than in the first
sti^; the inner comers of the eyes are mattery. The horse
loses flesh and strength, stales more than usual, coughs, and at
length dies in a miserable condition, generally farcied as well as
pandered.* In the pamphlet before noticed, by Chabert and
■ Although the diseaae u here divided iato the ^t and second stage, it is
not enentiHlthat in each case the former should precede the latter, for BOme-
times the acute only is present, and the horse speeilily dies if not destroyed.
Id other instances, the acute stage may be succeeded by the sub-acute. It
may, however, be obserrcd that the first stage never ends in death, but alirays
in the aecoud stage, before the disease proves fataL Besides these stages,
ghuideTS sometimet assume a still more insidious appearance, in which the
SiiKbarge is so slight, and the enlarged gland so trivial, as not only to deceive
Ae ignorant, but often to mislead the well-instructed practitioner. The dis-
charge is thin, and appears no more than a slight increase of the natural
diacharge, and the Bub-maxiUary swelling is no urgcr than a bean, though
bard and indurated. Such cases as these have proved of irreparable injury
to many horse proprietors, from the symptoms not being sufCiciently urgent as
to escite alarm ; and when a veterinary surgeon has given his opinion that
nch case was one of glanders, there have not been wanting plenty of farriers
and others who have altogether contemned such an opinion, and for a time,
at least, have exulted over th^ own superior sagacity. Mr. James Turner
rdates a striking instance of this, in which his advice was diiregarded, and a
horse, with these insidious appearances, was allowed to mix with other horses,
to several of wbich he communicated the disease in the course of a few
months. Several iustsncea of a similar oature have occurred in my own
pvctice. One in which, ailer atteuding a horse with a suspicious gleet, I
pronounced hira glandered ; and to be still more certain, inoculated a donkey
with the matter, which communicated the disease in a few days. By some
noderiund means the donkey was smu^led away contrary to the wishes of
the owner, and destroyed without affording me the op|)ortunity of examining
the body. The horse was shortly afterwards sold for 51., and then a neigh-
bouring farrier offered to cure him, which, according to the report which he
circulated, he accomplished in a few weeks, etating that the horse had never
been glandered. Shortly afterwards the horse was sold by the owner, a low
dealer (rather too low for the thafUof the law to affect him), for 20/. He was
turned with other horses, to whom he communicated the disease, and I wei
requested, some months afterwards, to give a certificate as to the state the
borse was in whilst under my care. Another case occurred within a few
months of the other, in which the symptoms were not so xtrongty marked,
and therefore more insidious. A young carriage horse belonging to a noble-
man now deceased, was ill with a severe catarrh in the early part of 1839, and
wu for some time under the care of a veterinary surgeon of Bath. He got
conriderably better, but the discharge from the nostril continued. A few
months afterwards the establishment coming, according to custom, into mv
Dcighbourhood, I saw ttie horse, and recommended that he should, by aU
means, be seiiaraled from the other horses, which was accordingly done, and
he was placed under my care. The symptoms, at this time, were a rather
considerable discharge of white healthy looking matter from the near nostril,
•ml enlargement of the corresponding submsnillBry gland, which felt hard,
and was about the size of an ^g; no ulceration could be perceived, and the
animal looked in other respects healthy and well. The horse was valuable,
having recently cost TO/. The treatment was pursued for severs! weeks, nnd
consisted of blisters and selons to the throat and glands, and vegetable and mine-
ral tonics internally. Under this treatment the horse got considerably better ;
SflO
DISEiSES OF THE HORSE.
Iliixan), tticy ilividc the diaoue into three stages or degrcvf.
** In till* fti'tit ihfi'e U n discharge from one nostril only, of a
wliitiitlt liiiaioiir, which k inconsiderable, exoqit when the hone
has bot'ii exercised Tor sonie time. There is an increased r«d-
rnna of the ntembrnne within the nostrils. The swelling of the
einii<l« under ilie jaw is on the same side as the alTt-ctea nostril.
I"hfre is a hcitlihv npjwaraiice of the horse's coat, and he seemi
in j;ood health aiid condition. The urine is crude and trans-
|>are»t.
" 1'he sym[)loms of glanders arising from communication with
a gtandered horse are dj&erent from those of glanders produced
bv b«d provender, excessive exertion, &c. In the former the dis-
, charge i» from one nostril only, or much more fi-om one than
IWun the otiier; and there is no cough or other svmplom of
catarrh or cold, or any other dirarder. In the latter, on the
contrary, there is cough, either dry or moist ; and it is preceded
by loss of appetite, or falling off m appclitt-, and depression of
spirits.
" The symptoms of the second dcgive are the altered apptar-
■ance of ih^.' rinming from the nose, which has become more glu-
tinous, and adheres to the edges of the nostril with a contraction
aildjMrtiiil closing of the nostril, an increas«>d tenderness of tliD
swclhng under llie juw, which bcj^ins to adiierc more closely 14
ihc jaw-bone. In the third de>^e, the running from the note
becomes of a darker colour, soTnelimes streaked wiiti blood, and
Lof *li odensivc emcll. There is sometimes a. bki-ding from the
nostril. Tile running is from both nostrils. Tliere is a slight
tumefaction of the under eyelid, a swelling, or etovation of the
bones of iIh' nose or forehead. Loss of appetite, debility, cough,
and swelling of the lcg« and sheath, or test ick-s, if a stallion; also
I Inincness without any apparent cause. Cliancn's or ulceration
within the nostrils, great tcndcnicss of ihe glandi under the jiiw,
which now stick close to the hotiv. A small discharge of mutter
the swutlinc rety much diminiihedf siiWfll ai (he nnad diichiu^r. After llva
or oil wL-olis, liuwevi--r, I fvlt ni> faeiitBrion in pronuundiig the ciue (o he oiia
toT^lsnilcr*, hut ihnl 1 hml no doubt thi^ tiviniiEonig laighl RtiD be nmeiulcd.
''Boon nftcr this ihc ownrr mai]« n prondit of lli« horse to s rriiiive (wttb ill
hi> fuiilti), nnd I heard nothin;; more of llic aar far two nionlhi, witen I inu
tuid lliat i\\e hone nut cntirclj* well, mid n neiflhboarinii furrier fiahtuc oolf
, trwtnient of the chko I uftetimjitii Ibiind cuiisiaicd in ai>pl)iii)* n blidtcr to llio
[ghuKl} indu*lriou«l.v rtportnl ihal he liiul curud the iJi«ni»v thai hnd linfflcd
Line, but that it wiu never one of glnndcn. The oiriier. not quite laliMM
with tli« case, coDulteJ Mr. Field, nnd by hii dnirc the bone *wt mit to
town b)' rnilronil. Th« ilitchnrge from the nDBtrili wm vtrj sliftbt, bin siiA-
civiit to cnnhlc Mr. Field to inonihite ailh it a donkcT. which (hortly iiA«r-
wnrilit became gliiiiderct). Thc^ linr^c wiu iian <inJere(( Co be destroyed, and
being einmineu by Mr. Field, llic eviilcnee of I he iliMraso wm doriwvi^Bud ibe
lunj^ were (bund in a tnbercntiLted state — Uu,
tVoiii liif iiincr fonicr of llic i-jx' on iIil' saint' side as ihe afii'cled
nostril, or in both eyes, when the running is from both nostrils.
When these symptoms appear the disease soon proceeds to a fatal
termination. The above symptoms are not all peculiar to
glanders, but may take place also in strangles, bastard strangles,
peripneumony, cUstemper {morfondure) and pleurisy. The dis-
charge of a glutinous matter from the nose, the swelling of the
glands under the jaw, and the ulceration within the nostrils are
symptoms which occur in the above diseases as well as in glanders,
but with this essential diifercnce. In ihe latter, the three
symptoms just noticed generally occur about the same time,
which is not the case in glanders; and are, in the first instance,
acute and inflammatory, and such as to excite apprehension of
immediate danger. 1 ney go through their course in a short
time, the running from the nose gradually diminishes, the blood
is depurated, and a perfect recovery takes place. Glanders, on
the contrary, b extremely slow in its progress : the first degree
often continuing a considerable time ; and it is only towards the
end of the second degree, or the beginning of the third, that
the symptoms appear to indicate an alteration, or disease of the
internal organs. This slow pn^ress of glanders, and especially
its continuing for some time without any apparent injury to the
animal's health and condition, the state and progress of the
swelling under the jaws, and the ulceration within the nostril,
furnish such clear marks of distinction between those diseases
and glanders, that they cannot well be mistaken for each
other."
It is a remarkable circumstance tliat glanders cannot be com-
municated by applying the matter which is discharged from the
nose of a glandered horse to the nostrils of a sound horse, unless
there be an open wound or sore, everf though a piece of lint
•oaked in the matter be put up the nostrils, and kept in contact
with the pituitary membrane for a short time ; or even if the
matter be thrown up the nostrils with a syringe. But, if the
smallest quantity of matter be applied in the way of inocula-
tion, either to the membrane of the nostrils, or to any part of
the body, a glanderous ulcer will be produced, from which farcy
buds and corded lymphatics will proceed. After a few weeks
the poison will get into the circulation, and the horse will be
completely glandered. The circumstance of glanders not being
communicated by applying matter to the nostril, enables us to
account tor a horse escaping the disorder, as he sometimes does,
after being put into a glandered stable, or standing by the side
of a glandered horse. I believe, however, that gtandei's is fro-
r*nt]y communicated by (accidental) inoculation ; and that
re is only one other way in which it can be communicated,
that is, by swallowing the matter which flows from the nose of a
ssa
nisRisKs or the iionsK.
glan<lerM) hone. if. Si. Bol, ilie firai i)rofir*tor of our Viicri-
Dary Collcgr, inixt-d wine glundfroui iiiMitcr wttli Hour, and
form<?d it into bolls. Tltete halU vr<>re given daily to throt
horsn for Olio wct-k. Tli« yotiiiKOft of thv liorac« became gUn-
dpred in uboiil n muntli; tlw otlior* vivre twt ufTcctcd till mmm
time nnor.* Glamlcn ciuiiioi b« coniiiiunicsted thn>u]{li thr air
bv I'llliiviA i&«uui|{ rmm tlic glandrrnl hcru; in the wajr thai
jnilrid lever in (.-oii)niiiniciiu-<) ; fur I have kept a lionc badl^
ginndi-i-ed in a .tlable witli oiIkt tiortes, but with tuch a tcfWf
tion as would cHecluallv prevent tii« MUiid liorses Troni xwallow*
iiig or toiieliing any ol* the matter: yi*l tltej* were living in dw
•anie air, there being a free communication widi re»[M-ct to any
effluvia tbrre may have been between the ootind and tbeglnndeml
horec*. 'riiix trial was continued for some time, and kcn-ral
lioncs wt-re nt dilTerent timea placed in this sittiaiion. Glaiidir-
OH» muttvr lia& been rubbed on a sore place, or ulcer, that bad a
henllhy ap]>earance in a sound horse: it altered tlie ap|>eaninet
of the Kore for a tinie ; but, after a few days, the healing prooeM
went on again) aiid the sore soon got well. From this it apfmin
tltat, to commiiiiicaie the ginndei-s, the matter must be applied
to a scratch or wound fj-e^li made, and not to a sore on whidi
matter has formed. A eound horse tuis been inoculated witli
glanderous matter that luid been mixed with ten ttmea its weight
of water. This produced some degree of inllammation, ana a
ainall ulcer of a eusptciouB appearance; but after two or three
days, it got cjuite well. This stiowa that glanderous nuiiter may
bt- -SO fur weakened by dilution witli water, walivn, or Otc watery
Mccrettoii from the lower part of a glutidervd horse's nottrili,
when he ho^ the disease in a verj* slight d<^ree only, aa to ren-
der it incapable of communicating tW di>ea*c. On the other
hand, when a large opening is made in the skin of a toundhorw.
ami a pivc<^ of tow or lint, soaked in glanderous nuiiter, [tut iiita
it, ill the manner llun rowels are inserted, the disorder is conw
niunicated in so violent a degree that the animal is genenlly
destroyed by it in a few days. The same effect is produced
when glanderous matter, mixed with a little warm water, is in-
jected into the jugular vein of a sound horse.
A horse aiFected with glanders may inoculate himself, and
tliereby produce the farcy. I liave known this happen to a horse
while at gnus. The hor^e had an itching in his hind leg, whicti
led him to rub and bite the part, and, at the eame time, rub on
it the glanderous matter which flowed from his nostril, lite
possibility of this circumstance taking place may be easily proved
by inoculating a glandcred borse, in any part of his Ixtdy, with
lomc of his own matter. There are many ways in which a
* It is *^d this cx|Krimcnt hat been repented, biit not with the
result.
QLAMDERS AND FARCV. 2*i3
sonnd hone may be accidentally inoculated with the matter of
glanders, for the slightest scratch in any part of the body is
sufficient. Horses that are cleaned with a curry comb are very
liable to be scratched in those parts where the bones are pro-
minent, such as the inside of the hock and knee, the shank bones
and the bead. To such scratches glanderous matter may be
uiplied by the hands of the groom alter he has been examining
the nose of a^landered horse, or wiping off the matter from his
nostrils ; or by the horse himself transferring glanderous matter
from the nose of a diseased horse, or from the manger, or other
part where any matter has been deposited, for horses are very
fond of rubbing their noses against the manger or stall, and a
glandered horse will generally try to rub off the matter from his
nose against the manger, the rack, the stall, or against another
horse ; and, if a sound horse happened to stand by one that is
glandered, they will often be seen nabbing or gently biting each
other, or rubbing noses. In short, having proved that glanders
is thus communicated, we can conceive a variety of ways in which
a horse may be accidentally inoculated. When a horse has been
twitched, be generally rubs his nose and Itps with considerable
force against the manger, and may thus easily inoculate himself
with a glandered splinter. Now, the parts where the local farcy
first appears are those most likely to be accidentally inoculated,
that is, the inside of the hocks and knees, the shanks, the lips,
the under jaw, where grooms are often trimming off the long
hair with sharp-pointed scissors, or singeing them with a candle,
and often causing an itching, which makes the horse rub the
part against the manger. In this way the heels also are often
wounded. Horses that are too highly fed and little worked are
liable to itching humours, which make them nab or bile their
skin, and scratch the hind leg with the opposite foot ; and we
may often see them bite, rub with the nose, and scratch with the
hind foot, alternately, the other leg.
■ If we take all the foregoing circumslancos into consideration,
and recollect that in M. St. Bel's experiment a month elapsed
before the first horse became glandered, and that, from nu-
merous experiments and observations made with regard to acci-
dental and intentional inoculation with glanderous matter, some
days will elapse before any ulcer or chancre is produced, a week
or two before farcy buds or corded lymphatics appear, and,
probably, a month or two before the running from the nostril
comes on (except when an ass is the subject of experiment),
■^ if we reflect upon all these circumstances, there will be no
difficulty, I think, in admitting the following positions, or
rather inferences or conclusions, with respect to glanders, viz.
that glanders is a contagious disorder, which is communicated
by inocuUtion, and by swallowing the matter, and not by effluvia
224
DISEASES OF THE MQHST-
proceodinjt from a glaiulercd horse, or a stable in wliicli ■
slandered horse is, or has been kept; secondly. Uiat the degree
in which (he glanders takes place dependa on iwoeircumstancn,
chiefly on lite quantity of matter applied, and next, upon llie
sute or health of the animal that receives it. Tliie is more
Btficlly tho case with rcganl to j;landci-ous inoculation, it having
been proved that by introdueing a considerable ciuantiiy of mat-
ter, tl)e hori^c is speedily destroyed. The sanie rule will pro-
bably be found to hold good, in a certain degree, when
glanderous matter is swallowed; but t)ie horse's stomach pot-
•esses a wonderful power of misting the impression of poisonoai
matter, as tias bv cnproved by tl»e large doees of arsenic, corro-
sive sublimate, «iigitr of lead, &c., that have at dilTereni linin
been given, by way of cxnerinicnt, to glaiidered horaea. A
liorse, ttirreforc, may possibly swallow one larse dose of glan-
derous matter wjiliotil b<-ing injured by it, while a repetition of
smaller doses will rt-udily produce the di$ord«r. M. St. Bel
gave it <laily for a week ; and the same method has beeu pur-
sued in other ex|M'riinents.
I (Uii inclined U> bi-lievc that the fli«niicr i« more readily caugbl
by eating the glanderouii miiltvr mixed wlih outs orliav, thanby
drinkiiig it with waU'r, as in the former ease it is so intimately
mixed with the food by mastication. M. Sl Ilcl placed two
lound hones by a gUndvi-ed hone, drinking out of the same
Mil and eating out of the tame manger. One of the sound
hones was six yearn old, and jiut lakvn from grass; the other
nine ycai's old, and taken from i-cgular work. I'he first showed
i-vident »igiis of gliinders at the expiration of thirty-four davs;
it fully (k'clurrd itself in the M-cond at the end of six we^u.
Two horses in good health, the one seven, the other eleveiif
yenra old, both just taken from work, were placed by a horse
tiutl had the ^Ian<l<'r». TIk' former caught the disease in 6%-
two dayi, iht.- other in thn-e montliK. A hone thirteen yean
old, very lean, was made to <lriiik the *ame water out of the
tame pail with a horse that Iiud the glander», and continued so
to do for two months : he did not ciitch the ditoi-der. A hone
nine vears old, in tolerable condition, was placed by a horse tliAt
had tlie glanders in the tai>l stage of ihe diioi'dor : hv caught it
at the end of forty-din-e dayh. M. St. IJel'i irinU by inoculation
were attended with a dltlerent result, which 1 am at a loss to
account for; as I have clearly proved, by immerous exiMiimcnls,
that glanders may be commnnicaled almost with certainty by
iiiocuTatiofii es]>eciany to young asses. Old liorsea appear to ofler
the greatest resistance to it, both by ihc way of iitoculnlioii and
by swallowing the matter. M. St. Bel inocul«te<l three old
horses with glanderous matter, and they all escaped. He adds,
this experiuicni was repealed on various hontc* of all agtt)
QLAMDERS AND FARCY. 235
without producing any effect. It waa also performed on an ox,
a sheep, and a dog, without impairing in the least the health of
these animals. I have known a horse, fifteen years old, stand
by the side of a glandered horse, constantly feeding, drinking,
and working with him for many months, without catching the
disorder; and I had occasion to inoculate another old horse
several times hefore I could produce the disease, and at last it
waa about three months before the glanders took place in him.
In younger horses, and especially in asses, the disease is pro-
duced with great certainty by inoculation. In doubtful cases,
that is, when there is much difficulty in determining whether
the discharge from a horse's nostril is glanderous or not, and
such cases uilen occur, I have for some lime made use of a
young aES, which costs only a few shillings, in order to decide
the point beyond all possibility of mistake. If the matter is
really glanderous, a peculiar kind of sore or chancre will be
produced by inoculating the young ass with it in any part of the
body. From this ulcer, corded lymphatics or veins, as they are
termed, will proceed, and farcy buds or small tumours will take
place. After a week or two the animal will begin to run at the
nose ; and then, in a short time, he will be completely glandered.
The disease in this animal is almost always quickly fatal. If the
matter is not glanderous, no effect whatever will be produced by
it: In the army, and in establishments where many horses are
kept, this will be found a valuable test for determining with
certainty the nature of a discharge from the nostril. However
mild the glanders may be, though no kind of ulceration can be
•een within the nostril, and the quantity of matter discharged is
bat small, and the animal in good health and condition, the ass
will be as certainly infected by the matter as if the disease were
in the last stage, or in the most virulent degree.
The following is the method of performing the inoculation : —
Cut off a little nair from the side of the neck or any other part
of the body, for about the space of half-a-crown ; then take a
lancet and pass it under the cuticle or scarf-skin, for about a
quarter of an inch : it should not wound the skin much, but be
aofficicntly deep to tinge the lancet with blood, or make one or
two drops of blood appear. The matter may be introduced into
this opening {first wiping off the blood) by means of a thin slip
of wood, of the form of a lancet. If the matter is glanderous,
the part will become sore in two or three days, and a scab will
form on it, which in a few days will be thrown off, leaving a
peculiar kind of ulcer, which will often spread rapidly, causing
a painful swelling of the adjacent parts, with corded lymphatics
and farcy buds. In about a fortnight, sometimes less, the
glanders will appear. No other matter will produce this effect.
There is only one kind of matter, besides that of glanders,
Q
DlsKJkSKS or THE flonsc
vAidk Mcording to tay experioiico, will produce any ejlecu and
thati* lh« matter of virulent or chronic ffrcase ; wlien the di&-
eharg*^ from the heels is of a cUrk colour, someiliinie like dinv
kennel-water, oiiil of a peculiarly oflWiBive Emell. I See GmMcl
WlitMi a horse is inoculated nilli this m<-ilter, a small but v«ry
jiainfiil tumour will arise in ilic part. After a few days the
skill covering li>e tumour will lMs:om<r of a dark colour, and in a
few durs more the dark-coloured skin will slougli oflT, and Imve
u iK-allliy ui'atinlutint; sore, « Inch will mon get well of its otm
accord. A lior»e who Imd lH*eii thus inoculated, was inocuUt^'d
aim with glAixleniiiit iiwlter; and it ix wonliy of remark, llntl
while the j^reaM! toi'v niis goitig on, tlic glanderous inocutatioii
had no elTecu
7Xe Sainn of Glanders. — [There is tlill muc)> difft-rvnce of
opinion as to ihe real nature of glanders. Professor Coleniaii
considcrod that it was a specific iiiflaromalion of the membrane
of the nostrils produced by a poison in the blood, and on trans-
fusing the blood of a glutidered horse into the veins of an
it quickly counnnuieaied the disease, clearly proving that
blood »»» (tlTcctctL Mr. Dupuy, who has wriiien an elaborate
Iriittiae on the disease, considers it to be of a tuberculous uatuitv
iukI tliat it i« always preceded by tubercles in the lungs, tbsl
is, small white grey bodies, which are principally composed of
carbonate of lime, but wliicli, in time, arc converted into piu.
Tltese liibercleH were, llkewi.-ie, iie asserts, found on tbc uanl
nwmbrane. He considers that tlH-y may exist fur scvcibI yean
before the devel<>])enieiit of glanders, and that ere tliis ilu.7
iDcreaiw in nuinbi-r and coalcecc, and at length are changed
into pus anil occasion ulcers bulb in the lungs and the nasal
membtane.
Proteiwr Howell in some measure coincide* witlt ibeae viwtk
and has found ihnl on inoculating a lu-»ltby donkey witk
glanderous matter, it has piwlueed tu)>ercles in i)ie luiigi in a
very short space of time.
Tlicw views arc deserving of great wnghl, but wc cannot
altogether coincide wiih them: for, although [leriinps in llic
lUBJorily of cases tubercles are found in the nings of glandered
liorscs, yet lliere are other instances in which (here are uone to
be found there or eUewhcre. 'I'he particular seat of glandm
is certainly the membrane lining tlie nostrils and chambers of
tl>c head, although in a great number of cases the lungs arc
likewise involved. We cannot say wlicthcr in all cases the con-
stitution is affected, or whether in some instances the disease is
entirely local : but in the subject chosen bv Professor Coleman
for cxpcrimcDt, it wwt clearly proved that the blood was infected.
There is evidently a much greater predisposition in some horse*
to receive llie disoate, citlicr from infection or otherwise.
GLANDERS AND 7ARCr. 227
Horses with narrow chests, long legs, and light carcasses, are
more liable to take the disease itian others; and some consider
that colour has something to do with the matter. Some years
since, during my pupillage at the Veterinary College, having to
read a paper on glanders to the Veterinary Society, I examined
the record of cases kept there for many years, and I found that
the number of cbesnut glandered horses was greater than of any
other colour.
Next to that of curing this disease, it is desirable to be able to
decide in difficult and obscure cases as to its actual presence; and
on this matter the opinion of veterinary surgeons is frequently de-
manded. Grooms and farriers more frequendy give a wrong
than a right opinion, imagining when the symptoms are very
mild, that the disease cannot be glanders, and oflen pronouncing
a horse to be glandered when he has only the strangles or
catarrh. The first mistake, however, is the most frequent
In examining a suspected case, if we find a discharge of
matter from one nostril, and a portion of it sticking to the
entrance with a hard and fixed enlargement of the submaxillary
gland, ahhough the enlargement may be slight, and the dis-
charge inconsiderable, yet, if these symptoms have exbted for
two or three months or upwards, we may safely decide the case
to be one of glanders, even if there be no ulceration witliin
sighL When these symptoms exist, but there is no means of
ascertaining the history of the case, we may justly consider
that the probability is in favour of its being one of glan-
ders; and this opinion will be greatly strengthened if there
are any mysterious or suspicious circumstances connected with
it, such as the horse having been sold at a very low rate. If,
however, we cannot trace the history of the case, and the animal
is of any value, it will be desirable either to keep it fur some
weeks, or otherwise to inoculate an ass with the suspected
matter.
If both nostrils are affected, and the symptoms are hut slight,
the case is not so decided as if one only is affected.
If tliere be a cough, and the other symptoms are tltght, the
chances are, that it is not a case of glanders, for although cough
is sometimes present in glanders, yet it denotes some pulmonary
aflection, in which case tlie symptoms of glanders are usually
Kvere. The absence of a cough, therefore, and the presence of
the other symptoms, is very suspicious. The existence of uicera
m the nostrils, U^ether with a discharge, is not alone sufficient
prooft of ganders being present, for these symptoms are some-
times produced by catarrh, the previous existence of which it is
desirable to ascertain. If the discharge from the nose be very
offensive when it first appears, the probability is, that it is not a
case of glanders, although ulcers may be seen. Those symptoms
Q 2
DisBAsn or THE noue.
are cnltnl ozena, and arc soniciJRics produced by li*e iiifluenn.
Some time niticic, 1 met with a case ol lliii sort: il was preceded
b^ awfllini^ of lite vxlrviiiitin. Tlierc was considerable ulcer*
atioii iu boiti nostril*, tocethcr willi a dixclutrge bo horribly
offeiuivc, that il could be aiwovertHl tliirlj- yiirds olT. 'Htc liorw
was young mul tnUmbk-, and bi-in^ §e|iarnted (rotn oiber bones,
\k was subiiiiited lo trtvilnient wliicb consistt^d of vegetable and
mineral tonics internally, and ibe noetrils were daily injected
witb a weak solution of cbloride of lime.
Tlio diet was liberal, and tbc borsc was workod moderaiely
by liimBcir in tbe coiir»- of a month, and about six weeks afier^
wards the symptoms disappeared, and Itc has bet-n roguluily al
work for the Uist two years.
By an attention to thcM- rules, assisted by experience, ibe
\ veterinary sur^ron will ffencrnlly be cnubleil lo decide correctly
as to t)w presence of (^tniiHvns and line owner himself to form b
pretty shrewd opinion rcKoeeling it. — Kd.]
According to MM. Chabcrt ami Hu/.iird, the foIlowtn)[
morbid 8ppearanci-s»rfol>s(-rvable on opening gUindcred Itortes:
— 1st. " Tumours ate fjenerolly found on live lun;^ sudi at
hydatids, lubercles, and obstructions. The bronchial glandi
arc cnlarr^ed, and sometimes contain mailer, and ilus sonwtimes
is the only morbid appearance obsenable in the lungs. 'IV
membrane which lines tlie windpi(}e and its branches is often
iiiflinm-d and ulcerated, and the latter are often filled with
mutter timiiar lo tlial disrbarned by ihc nostrils. Tlie inlernsl
surface of the bones, wbicli form tite nose and llie cariilaginout
partition between the nostrils, are oOen carious and coirereJ
with mailer. The spleen, llie liver, and the kidneys, are oden
diseased, sometimes in a considerable derive. When these lul
oi;gaD8 are injured, it mav he known by tlie pus dischai;ged with
the urine. 2d. On openmi^ die skull, tbe biain is found softer
and more flaccid than in the lienllhy bone, and ihore is gen^
I rally ntore or lc*n water in the venlrieles. The plexus clwroidet
appears gorged, ibu crystalline humour of tlie eye dull, aod
widiout consistence, or, as if it were decomposed. It is not to
be supposed ibat all tbese morbid up|H>arance« will bo found in
ihe same horse, or ihiit tbey lue nil necessary lo enable us to
declare that ihe lior^ie niu glandert-d ; it is sufHcient if some of
them an? found, provide*! ihe external xymploms during the
lione's life were such as we liave before described as charac-
teristic of glanders." *
As I have deinonslrau-d the maimer in which glanders it
* III sonic rMcn, when home* sre dvitrovrd on amount orcbronic gl.-HiiIm
In a initd form, the potl Murlm nppcnniitccE arc Tcry rfifibi ; ■ mleevu 01
Icndrn hue nf titc luuuil membraiw^ wiib vcr)- ilinunulive iiiecki of ulctmion,
ore dl that cbii b« discofered.— Kl>. ^
aLANDEftS AND FARCY. SS9
communicated, it is needless to say any thing of tho mode of
prevention, except briefly observing, that it can be accomplished
only by preventing any glanderous matter from coming near a
horse, or mixing with his food or water; and that the only
method of purifying an infected stable, is to remove every thing
on which glanderous matter may have fallen, and to wash and
scrape the fixtures, such as the rack and manger, thoroughly.
I have, in a former edition, advised a fumigation with the gas
which arises from a mixture of common salt, manganese, and oil
of vitriol, because I have found that glanderous matter which
has been exposed to this gas is rendered quite innocent, though
an ass be inoculated with it ; and I have directed the stable to
be first thoroughly cleansed, because, if any dry hard glan-
derous matter should remain, the water employed in cleansing
the stable will have moistened it, and thereby enable the
fumigation to mix with it, and destroy its poisonous quality.
[Some persona fancy that it is necessary to pull down and
remove the racks and mangers of a glandered stable. This,
however, is altogether unnecessary. The following plan will be
found at once efiectual, convenient, and economical : — Let the
whole of the stable, or at least every part to which the diseased
animals could possibly have had access, be washed with a solu-
tion of chloride of lime, and the following day well scrubbed
with soap and water, and as soon as it is dry again, washed with
the chloride of lime. In a few days allerwari£, it may be used
without any danger. — Ed.]
Trfotment. — I have already observed that a glandered horse
has, in several instances, been known to gel entirely free from
the disorder while employed in moderate work, and carefully
led and attended, without taking any medicine: I have also
seen the disorder cured by mercury, and have known instances
of farcy being so cured. The general opinion, both of English
and French veterinarians, is, that glanders is incurable, and
that fercy is curable. According to my experience, there is
seldom any difficulty in curing farcy, when it is a local disorder,
merely by local applications ; but such cures are generally fol-
lowed by glanders, there being often a considerable interval
(from a few weeks to a few months) between the disappearance
of fercy and the appearance of glanders. Before any attempt
is made to cure a glandered horse, with a view to publishing the
case if it prove successful, it would be right to make it appear
satisfactorily that the horse is really glandered. This rule has
been seldom attended to ; for, in general, when such cures have
been published, or talked of, it has been merely asserted that
the horse had the glanders. Now, it is well known that there
are diseases which resemble glanders, and that the most ex-
perienced practitioners are sometimes unable to give a decisive
Q 3
DKKABES or THE ROR8B.
I opinion iipnii sii^ SUM. A blow on tlie no«e, for exatnp1«v
miy injure Ute bonm, and cause a running from one no6lril, and
n HWtflliiig of ihe kernels under ihe jaw, for yearS) which will
exaclly resemble glanders, exc«pt in not being coniagiouj, or
fatal in its termination. Tbe cure of glanders, however, cannot
[ be accomplisbed wjtbout gi-eal care, and considerable expense ;
I and rarely, I Itclievc, except in its tirsl stage, or mild form.
I The expense of tlic cure does not depend so much on the value
Lpf tl)o n>edicinc employed, oa llic length of time tluit is nece»-
UMFy : therefore, unless the lione is of coiMidi-ruble value, in
^wmI condition, and plundered oidy in a mild degr«>c, it is not
worth whikr to attempt tin' rure. It tliould alto be reeollvctcd,
during; the ir^iitment, tliut m long lu there iH any divchat^
fruin tlie nostril, there i.^ dnngcr of his communicating tlte dianw
I lo odier lioraea. Corroaive sublimate and calomel have bc«u
round to have considerable power in correcting tbe glanderous
poison; but they weaken the animal »o much, that roost fre-
(jiienlly tbey accelerate tbe progms of tl»c disease. 1 now
recommend tli<^ mildest preparations of mercun', such u
Elhiop's mineral, or qnicksilver rubbetl down with chalk, or
h<uKO' ai>d litpiorice powder. In the last cast- of mild glanden
I WW consulted about, 1 advivcd email doMS of Elhiop's mineral
to be given iLiily for some time, and a leton to l>e p«Mcd througli
Uie swelling under ilio jaw. Tlie seion, hovreveri wtu ontiuc^
but tbe Etniop's mineral elTecIed a perfect cure. Dr. Mnloutiv
a French physician of the last centurj', first employed Rlliiop's
mineral as a remedy for glanders, and, it was »uid, witli coo*
si<lerahle sucoess. Since tlial time, however, this preparaiioa
seems lo have lost its reputation, not only as a remedy for
glanders, but for every otlier disorder, I have foun<l it, on
many occasions, a vahwble alterative, especially when mixed
with an einial qiinntity of Jim-it/ Iriiigaird nniintony. The doM
of Ktbiopg mineral is Italf an ounc^^ once or twicv a day,
nccoi-diitz lo cireuinsiann-s. A horse mtdily eats it in hu com.
,.X>uring tlie whole of tbt! treatment, (he borae should be tx^u-
aexercbed and eleaneil, awl be fed with the best Itay and a
tnxe (juantity of oals. The medicine should be eontinurd
until tho coHiiitution appears to be afTccted by it ; tliat is, until
' the mouth becomes sore, the appetite diminished, tin- bowels
]oo>eiii-<l, or until ihu disorder is cnlxluixl. Tlu- nose of the
glun<ler<.-<) horse sboulil be kept clean by sponging it itow ami
then, and the rack and manger should be kept as clean u
ijossible. T))c stable should he keiit ch>an, and ]>ruiM'rly veiiti*
ated. 'I'lie only objection lo working a glandered horse nio-
dcmlely, is the danger thei'e may be of his tnfi-ctin^ oihere.
ibrougn tlie enrelessn««s of tlie person who has ilie care of hin;.
I A liule wuik railivr cotiiributes to health and cheerfuhiemi ami
OLANDERS AND FARCY. S3I
it should never be forgotten, that by making a horse comfortable
and cheerful, we improve the digestive functions, and thereby
strengthen the const itution.
The injected horses that gradually got well without medicine,
in Mr. Russel's glandered teams, owed their recovery, I have
no doubt, in great measure to the comfortable state they were
kept in, being taken great care of, having always the best food
aad good stEdoles, and being always with their companions, and
in moderate but r^ular work.
QProfessor Sewell has for some years been in the habit of
giving the sulphate of copper, in large doses of four and six
drachms, which being administered in the form of a draught,
and with plenty of linseed meal, is not found to produce that
erosion of the stomach which the same dose given as a ball
would occasion. This medicine is doubtless a i>owerful tonic,
and thus assists the constitution of the animal in throwing off
the disease; but Mr. Sewell, I believe, considers that it has in
addition some specific action on the malady. In addition to
this Mr. Sewell frequently inserts setons over the &ce. By
this treatment cures have unquestionably been effected, and
Mr. Sewell used for many years a mare that he had cured of
glanders. These successnil cases, however, are exceedingly few,
compared with the number submitted to treatment.
Mr. Vines, in a work published some years since on glanders,
recommends powdered cantharides in doses of four to twelve
grains, together with gentian and ginger, one to three drachms
each, and caraway seeds one to two drachms. A ball thus com-
posed he has administered daily to glandered horses, and in
some cases with success. Other practitioners likewise testify to
the valuable tonic properties of this medicine thus administered,
and in numerous instances I have seen ils good effects.
Mr. Siorry relates several instances of glandered horses cured
by him by fumigating the nostrils with carbonic acid gas, assisted
l^ tonic medicine.
Creasote has been used with success in glanders of the human
subject as a topical application to the ulcers, and il has in a few
instances been tried on the horse with good effecL I have,
myself, in a case of glanders, entirely stopped the nasal dis-
cha^e and healed the ulcers by its use.
The combination of iodine and sulphate of copper, which
readily unite by adding a litde proof spirit, has been recom-
mended by Mr. Norton, and administered with excellent eflect
in doses of two drachms daily.
To sum up the best system of treatment to be adopted in this
disease, it should first be repeated that there are but few coses
in which the symptoms are sufficiently mild, and the horse of
snfficient value, to justify the expense incurred in keeping and
Q 4
238
DI8KABES OF THE HORSE.
ircatinir tlie animal exccjjl by way of experiment ; and we must,
tli('n.-rorc, narrowly- fxaiiui)« ilw liorse |>revious to our attempts.
If tite puUe ia increaaecl, ilion^flt only eight or ten beats in a
minute, the lungs are probably affected, aud it is better to tle-
stroy the Bnimal. So likewise if the animal has b««n ofiiKlcd
Ibr several years, altboiigh tlie tymjitonis may still bt^ mild.
SImubl, however, the case be cotiip;irittively reiviit, and the
appcsraiwet favourable, wo should iIh-ii adininiNi<-r clailv tlw
tonic recommended by Str.Sewell, or tlmt ndviMniby Mr.Viiwi;
or what, |M'rltapA, id still belt«r, to sive oite for several days,
and tli«n to try the otlier, or the iodide of copper in doses of
one or two drachms daily. If there are any tilcerattotu within
aight, n solution of creasote should be syrin);ed up tlie nostrils
duly ; and if there are none visible, it may be well to try the
efTccl of fumiKJiting the noatriU with carbonic acid gas: and
if creasote could be applied in thia form it would still be belter.
An ointment of hydriodate of poiash sliould l>c rubbed on iIk
enlarged glands; and if the symptoms ifJtould disappear wiili
lite exc<i)tion of d)e indurated gland, it would be ndviuiblc lo
excide it, as it gE-neriilly eoninins gUnderoiu matter, which may
fresh inoculate the system.
'Hie above. I lake it, forms an epitome of the most judicious
treatment to be employed in glanders. — Ed.J
Party.
[This disease U similar In ile nalut% lo the glanders, thoujth
attacking u different part. It lias been proved by numerout
jn«lances tlint the mailer of gUttders will pnidnco iIh^ fnrcy, anJ
that of farcy occasion glandirs. But whilst ilio |>eculiur seal of
glanders i« thi> membrane of the nostriU, that of furcj- it llie
lymphatics or abtorbent vessels.
Farcy sometimes commences with an apparendy trivial sok^
which of\en c«caprs notice. Soon ader which there appeaiH a
■mall tumour cidlciln farcy bud,biit which is at first hard, but liooa
becomes soft, and cmiiains, indeed, ihe infcclioti« virus, whicl),
however, resembles coninion puK or matter in appearance. Be-
tween these budn [here are generally hard corded twellingi,
which are, indeed, the diseused lymphatics; and ilie buds ore
considered to occur at the situation of the valves of these
vessels.
Farcy may at first bo citl»er local or constitutional, but it
mrely remain; local long. The pobon U soon absorlied fi'oni
tite buds, and the eonstiuiiion is impregnated. Tito mofi
rrec(UOiit Keitt of farcy, at tint, is the inside of one of the hind
legs and thighs; next i« thi>, llic inside of the foro tegs, or the
nix-k and ihe lips; wherever, indeed, the skin is thianoi.
^
GLANDERS AND FAHCV. 233
The buds are sometimes small, about the size of a shilling, at
other times as large as a hair crown. The disease, at first, is
usually confined to one leg ; but as it progresses, tlie buds appear
in various parts of the body, and as they approach the head and
throat, the symptoms of glanders appear, and the animal soon
sinks, if not destroyed. There is oilen a considerable dropsical
enlargement of the leg affected in farcy ; and sometimes a pecu-
liar noise is heard when the animal walks, as if the joint-bones
slipped in and out of their sockets. Tliese appearances, par-
ticularly the tatter, are very unfavourable, and the horse rarely
recovers when it is present. The causes of farcy are similar to
to those of glanders, being produced either by contagion or other-
wise although it may be justly considered that it is much less
frequently occasioned by contagion than glanders. When a
number of horses are worked hard, fed on poor or unwholesome
provender, exposed to wet and cold, or closely confined in an
impure atmosphere, — when either the wliole or part of these
causes are present, farcy will very probably be engendered.
Mr. Coleman used to relate in his lectures, that in the expedi-
tion to Quiberon, the horses had not been long on board of the
transports before it became necessary to shut down the hatch-
ways ; the consequence of this was, that the horses were almost
aufibcated with neat, and that almost all of them disem-
barked either glandered or farcied. When farcy thus breaks
out in an establishment, its symptoms are generally very severe,
and its course rapid. At other times its progress is slower, but
it never continues for years, like chronic glanders.
The Treatment must be very similar in its nature to that
recommended for glanders, but with a much greater probability
of success. The system must be supported by a generous
(though not too stimulating) diet, and the vegetable and mineral
tonics administered as in glanders; but if the sulphate of copper
be employed, two or three drachms will be a sufficiently strong
dose. Carrots or green food will form a useful addition to the
diet. The buds should be opened with a lancet, and when the
matter is evacuated a caustic should be applied to the ulcers.
The lunar caustic will form a useful application, but other
caustics may be em[>loyed. An ointment composed of hydrio-
date of potash 2 drachms, lard or palm oil 2 ounces, mercurial
ointment 2 ounces', should be rubbed daily in the course of the
enlarged lymphatics. The horse should be exercised daily, and
properly groomed, and the above treatment continued until all
symptoms of farcy entirely disappear. It must be confessed
that the most favourable symptoms often prove delusive; for
often when the disease appears to be conquered, it will break
* A better form for this ointment will be found in (he Materia Medico, in
wlucb the mercury and the iodine arc chemicalty combined. — Ed.
S34
OF mi
!IOB88.
out again nnd again, uid aometiian (h« morbid poisoO"
lurked itisidiously for many montha in l)>c system, and
tarcy or glanders lias again appeared. Tlie probability of
emuicating t]te disease will depend on the circumstance as to
whether it be local or constittttinnal; and if coastitutional, on
how iar the system is aJTectcd. — Ed.]
CHAP. XMII.
ANA8AICA. — SWRIXKn LEGS. — vrt'Ett. •> CnArrEI) llfRLft, —
OUEASE DUIISAUTKE.
Akasaiica in the horse i* of two kinds; ono depending oa
genend debility, nnd the other on a high decree of inflnmraa-
tion. The fonner moat commonly occurs in old horses, when
turned out into poor pasture, parliculaHy in cold marahv
^ilUBtiona. It is known by considerable swellings of the Mly,
chest, and hind legs, attended with great dcbilily ; of this ihtr
generally die, unless reliered by a strong diuretic, sudoHlicwiil
cordial: thcfic arc combined m the celebrated old drench of
Mnrkhiim, which Iiam cured a great number of Itorscs of thin
disorder, mid I* coinidcrcd in the low country, about Glas-
tonbury nnd Wedmoor, whcit; this diseiuc is prevaJvnti no
invaluable medicine. It consists of a decoction of wormwood
in a gntlon of ale, which is boiled down to in'O qiuirts and
skimmed. In this I ox. of Castile soap is to be diKtolvcd, and
■hen there ik to he stirred in ft drachms of grains of pamdiir^
powdered, nnd the same qiinncity of long pep{>er. The wbok
of this mixture is to bo given at once, futing. The horse itij
be clothed, and rode almut until he sweats and stales profua
which he soon does, and is then relieved. Some people may 1
Miprchensive of <ianger in using this formidable remedy : in
inu cose cordinl diuretics may be given, so as to make the borsf
stale considerably.*
* ItiMfsd of ^viDg ao larse n i|uaMity of nedicbie, tbc follawing wiD h
fouad effbctusl t —
Yellow TMin powilcrcU 4 dn.
Nitre _ 4 tin.
Ginger |iowiler«iJ „ 2 ilrv
OcDiinn [M>wJcrcJ 4 (Iri.
Sulplinic or copper , It dm.
Hie powdrn lo bv mixeil togeihcr. nnd ton put) vf wrttii aie gniv^l
HiliUxl, ■>il> too oiincc« ofsjilrit at niituiu cibi;r.
It Rifiy l)e rc|iealcd, ifneccarary, in iho courw of 36 or 46 lioun, •— Ek
ANASARCA, SWELLED LEGS, ETC.
nos
The otlter kind of dropsy, or ihat wliich drpcnds on a hiph
legree of g«-i>ernl intliim million, moU commonly allncko coiw
luring ihe (irsti, hccoikI, or tliinl y«ir, or bcfm-c tk-y Ix'ijin (o
-hange (heir grinding U'<>th. At lhi» {x-rind them it lew* hlooc)
bnnedt not only from iIk* xuU> of tite grinding tvcUi, the gnmti,
lad the mcMith in g«twrat, which is such iis to render niasti-
atton painful, diSiculi, and imperiect, but from (he aloni.tL-h
larticipaling in, or sympathising vrilh, this slate of tlic mouth,
riii* disorder in young colla is first observed bv dulueM, dis-
nclinaiion to motion, hanging the bead, and indifference in
•jwting. There are swellings, aUo, on the belly, chesi, sbealb,
ir adder, whidi are sometimes very considerable.
Wlicn lhi'«o eymptonts are obwrvcd, the colt should be
nken up and bled. I have been assured by a respectable
iirrier, that he has given Markhiitti's drencli to colts when
tfecied with the nioor-ill, m the disorder is lernicil, and nlinoMt
nyariably with «ucce«s, In the last ca^c I lit-.-trd otj the coll
j||B Bu ill tlint hv wax unable to rise; but when lie bad taken
Re drench, he brok<! out into a proftiM pcispi ration, and soon
ftcr got up and perfectly ri-covered."
B Sutiltd Z^ffs.
^his diseafe occurs mo»t fi-eqnently in coarse horses, having
aturalty round gummy leg«. It consists of ii dropsies) or wnlcr)-
wplling, the nature of which nmy be readily delecled, and dis-
inguixhed from that of phlof^inon, by prr^ting it with the lingers,
dwii it pits; that i^ tlie impreti«ion uf the fingers are lelt for a
rt time. It is '« laetj a deposition of the watery portion of
blood in the cells of the membrane; the absorbents or
^phalic vessels are unable to take up or carr^- into ihe circula-
icMi the serum so fast as it is depogic«l. It may arisi- from the
reak stale of the lymphatics, from cold apptirtl to the legs, from
lie plethoric stale of ihe system, or from the redimdaiicy of
prum in the blood. It i-xists in various degrees : *omelime»
be legs are merely filled, as it is tcrmisl, producing no hime-
n*, and l»n Vmh a|>parent inconvenience; at other times the
mitt are immensely gorged, and attended with considerable
ain and sliffheM. Between these two extremes the disease may
xisi in every intermediate degree. It may thus appear either
) an acute or subacute form, and may be produce<l either sud-
cnlv or gradually ; when, iiowever, it exists in a severe fonn, it
sually appears suddenly. The hor$e perliaps is well over night,
ut (he next morning one of hifl legs i* amazingly swelled, an<l
n handling ■( (lie horse often catches it up suddenly, luid m
* The draught |m«crihoil in thi: prei'i'itirtg iioto mny hIso be given hrrc;
It for colts one hstf will l<e miffi.idii. If dierr i* no ilcliiliiy, liowcrcr, llic
lOM l|Daatity ofitinfcer anil gcnliBa nil! noi he nqiiimL— Ev.
S96
violoiilly lliat Iw Hcnrly Tails. IT the (Ibrane bp not wrj- hoon
relieved, larpe ahmxvsn cither form In diireri-nl \mrl% of tin-
limb, or the «kin {rivet way ; (lie li<.>ri> are afli-ctcU with gretae,
(ir the veKsolx iwvomo oilargvtl uid t)M> swelling orgnniM-<l, nnd
the hnrse liiu for life m friy Inf. We ofnm see ati auimiil wiili
one of the hind le^ twice m large as it ought to he ; the poor
brute, in addition lo his nreustoined labour, condemned lu dng
for liii-- this weary load, which, in nine caaes out ol'tent is to m
ascrilnd cither lo ibe negliceiice or ignorance of hia owuer.
'I'liese hig-legged horses uaiially belong either to poor men or lo
farniera ; tlie lornier neglecting them from poverty, and tlie latter
because many of iliem prelV-r treading in the footsteps of their
foreratlierf, and employing ignorant empirics in preference lo
Gkilfnl practilioneri^.
The Trmttnml ol' h very ulight cane may conitist either in tli«
ailinini«tration of a do«e of phytic or u few diiui>lics ; but a xc^'rrt
ease demand* very prompt and energetic treatment, if wc would
nroid the troublesome consequence to which I have just ail uded.
It must, however, be materially regul;iied by t)>e state and con-
dition of the hor^, and the most predominating ca toe of the
discos*'. If the hor^e he in full condition, we eliouid b)eed, and
that very freely, {Nirlicnlarly if we 6nd, as we usually shall Gnil,
that tlie up]K-i' surface of the blood ia colouiless ; when this H the
ca»e during the bleeding, there is ustislly a thick coat of bufT
afterwards. If, however, the horse is in a staleof much debility,
bleeding is not a[>])ropriaie: and if the di»ea»e i* brought on, u
it sometimes i», by tliv redundancy of moiKinre in his food (ibe
horse being at grii>9), we must bleed with caution and mu<ieni-
tion, and sometimeit not at all.
Should th« hoi'»e Iw prepred for phytic, we may at once ad-
minister an active dose; but if he i* not so prejiared, to low no
lime we should give htm a diuretic luill, and the physic the fol-
lowing day after he has had some mashes. If the swelling ex-
lend mneli above the hock, we may make some puneltires with a
Jaiicel, which will produce great relief, particularly if the leg be
Flfterwards fonieiited with wnrm water. Oirc, however, must be
taken to rub the leg dry uflerwards.
Walking exerci.ie should \tf given twice or three times n dny.
It will be necessary to repeat iho diun-lie mnlicine every all<*-
nalc day : and if the animal be del)iliuiti.-d, we should (jive iii
addition some tonic: such as,
Powdered ginger 2 dr. ^h
Sulplinte of iron „ 9 dr. ^|
Either as a powder or in a baJl. ^
If in the coiiru- of two days ihe leg is not so materially reduced
in wt& OS lo lead us to infer its sj>cedy restoration to ■ normal
ANASARCA, SWELLED LEGS, ETC. 287
e, we may insert a rowel in the thigh. If abscesses should
a in the thigh or leg, we must take care to distinguish the
: from farcy, to which it then bears a resemblance ; but in
latter disease the abscesses are usually smalier, and in the
ne of the absorbents, which are enlarged, whilst in oedema
f are larger and more independent in their position. These
eesaes being opened, usually heal with little diflSculty ; but if
skin should slough, as it sometimes does, the cure is much
re tedious. There is, however, a difference in this respect
ween the human and the equine subject j for whilst in the
□er the cure of ulcers is tedious and protracted, in the horse
I generally accomplished with speed and safety.
Veed. — There is a disease very similar to oedema, or humour,
t ia commonly termed ; but, though usually confounded with it,
■ yet different in its nature, — in Scotland it is termed fVeed.
e horse is found in great pain in one of the hind legs, but the
lling is considerably less than in oedema, and is situated above
hock at first, from whence it extends downwards. On ex-
ination, we find a swelling in the course of the tliigh vein,
ending nearly from the hock to the groin, very hot, and ex-
mely tender to the touch. It is, in fact, a local inflammation
the lymphatic vessels.
rbe treatment consists in venesection, purgatives, and diu-
ics, together with warm fomentations to the affected part.
'Jhapped Heels. — Some horses are so predisposed to this com-
mt, that they prove a source of great annoyance to their
aera during the winter months. They have frequently white
s, and the texture of the skin gives way from the least ex-
Dg cause, and a crack takes place, which, from the motion of
t limb, becomes widened and deepened, and from this circum-
Dce is often exceedingly difficult to heal. It is usually
iceded and accompanied by cedema of the legs, and a thin
id discharge issues from the wound, and from the irritation
d pain produced it is often attended with considerable lame-
» — the horse catching up his leg in a peculiar manner on
ng moved.
I^e Treatment should consist of purgatives and diuretics,
J, if the system be plethoric, venesection, but not other-
le. The heels being in a state of inflammation, a linseed
nltice should be applied to them for several nights, in which
>re may be a solution of alum or sulphate of zinc. By this
idicaied poultice we accomplish two purposes at the same
le — we reduce the local inflammation, and bring about the
kitby action of the part, by the stimulant the poultice contains.
it scarcely necessary to observe that the heels must be kept
an, and the hair closely cut from them. When the poultices
338
DISBAAES OF TRS trORSE.
arc discontintm), ()i« crack ehoiilil be waslied ivt'ice n day vrith a
ealiiiion of sulpliatc oF tine ; and, if the horse k obli^i^d to viorV,
a littl« astringent powder, siicli as prqmrvd chalk whii Armenian
bole, should Ek- wbIIi'iwI ov<?r the wound, GifRTiiKy epcaliin';,
ihv ciitTcK- i» hrok<-n, imd ili« culls ilotmdrd andobrauH; but
it (onictiniw hapiicnii, from the repetition or long continuance of
thwe crack*, thjit tlic ruU9 itself I* completely divided, and the
aat th«n becomo* very tix>ubl«sofne, and cannot be cured wilb-
oiit n cicatrix. And when tlitf wotindK appear to be healed, it
often li;i|>[)cns thai, after exerciite or work, titc grcot motion of
the iwru cauieit a »P|wrfttinn of the newlv-formed skin, and the
liM» appor in a bleeding state. In ilieae coses, after the in-
fliininiiitory action is subdued by tlie local and eunjititutional
treatment we liave reconiaiendedf it b necessary tu keep the
jiarls ftH much in a state of rest as possible, and tlie mjutid mutt
be ke|)l clean, and aiimulated with tincture of myrrh.
Il sometimes happens, when there is no crack, or wouitd, or
dUcliarge from the tieels, there ia often a, thick dry Bcurf. Tlii»
is best ireoted by frequent ablution, rubbing tlie pan carefully
dry, and applying llie ung. Iiyd. iiit
GreaM is a while ofTeneive discharge from tl»e skin of the heel*,
frequently eiLlending as high up as tlic hock or knee. )t is
generally the cotiKequence of I lie dmpnieal enliirgement of the
legs before spoki-n of, luid it is imiecd iiu effort of imlure to re-
lieve the inflammation iiiid tension of the integuments. Uorsn
with much liair about the logs arc more particularly disposed to
grcssp, and well-bred horses are rarely afTected. The skin in
grease is usually ml, and the hair appears staring, and there is
BC fii'st considerable pain and stifTiuft* of the part. After a whilf ,
however, this stiffness goes off; and, if the disMSe is neglecli'd,
(he dischar^ continues in incrensetl quantity, the skin b««)fflrt
gradually thickened, and sorn«iime« large excrescences, drnomi-
nnh'd fi-oni their apiwarance grapes, thickly cover the skb.
Sometime* a)»ce»sc« foi-m about the lieels, and lar^ portions of
the Ihi'Is slough away.
TrfalTnenl. — The connliintional tre^lmenl of gmwe is similar
to t)uit recommended for cedematous legs, regulated, of eonrwi
by iIh- age and condition of the animal. Our local ireatnient
is, however, n matter of mnch importance likewise, ns it is in-
cimihent on us to cure the disease, if possible, widioul rendering
the pri^l is position of the horse to become affected greater tlun
before. 'I'lie parts should fn-st be well fomented and cleaned;
and tile liiiir heing eaivfnlly cut away from the neighhourtiooc!.
we should llu-n apply a linseed poultice to the heels, in which n
little Nohilion of sulplmte uf zinc Itos been mixed. 'litis will lie ,
found a convenient method of applying tlie astringent, and, nt
AKAUaCA, SWELLED LEGS, ETC. S39
the same time, the mflamnutioQ of the heels will be lessened.
In the course of a few days it will be proper to discontinue the
poultices, and to apply the astringent lotion alone. If the dis-
charge should be unusually offensive, a little solution of the
chloride of lime will be found a useful adjunct to the poultice.
When the excrescences called grapes have formed, the only
method of removing them is by casting the horse, and cutting
them off, and applying a caustic to the sur&ce afterwards. This
operation, however, should not be practised if the legs are con-
siderably enlaised, and have been so for some time, nor if the
grapes are so thick as to occupy nearly the whole of the surface,
so as to leave little or no sound skin between them. — £d.]
Bursavtee.
[There is a disease peculiar to India somewhat resembling
those treated of in this chapter : it is thus described in the ele-
venth volume of the Veterinarian, by Mr. Armstrong : —
" The disease * Bursautee ' is most prevalent in July, Au-
Sust, and September, which are the wet months; and thence it
erives its name, * a disease peculiar to the rains.'
" Horses of every breed, age, and condition, are subject to
the bursautee ; but the second generation of imported horses
are most liable to it I attribute this to the effect which climate
has in weakening the constitution of the horse ; and the same
thing applies to all animals imported into that country from a
more genial temperature.
*' The second generation is still worse than the first.
" Nature and Causes. — I trace this disease to the change which
the atmospheric air undergoes at this season of the year. During
the three previous months the hot winds prevail.
" An animal exposed to the parching influence of this air is,
u> a very considerable degree, relieved by copious perspiration
from every part of his frame; and, strange as it may appear, the
hot season is remarkable both in the biped and quadruped for
the absence of disease.
"Then comes the rainy, or wJiat might be with equal pro-
priety called the pestilential season. Land storms, hurricanes,
soffocatiog heat, and horrid stenches usher in this awful period.
The filth of ravines, drains, and other receptacles of putrid
animal and vegetable matter becomes saturated with rain, and
bebig acted upon by the heat already in the soil, generates the
most noxious gases, which speedily mingle with the circum-
ambient air.
*< The bursautee is an eruption all over the body, arising from
the pores of the skin being stimulated by the increased animal
heat to discharge the perspirable matter ; but this is prevented
viaeAses of thk nonB.
hy the tliickciiing of the opidcrnits, or ihe tenacious matter be-
fore aHuded to.
" The burBauicc »orc in the hone Tciy much reaembles ilie
boil in the human Ix'in^. It forms a painful tumour, which
suppunili-s and hn-ak» ; or «)iould thp skin of any horses prfr-
dispoMtl to the diwuM- bccoiiif ubradM), it will run into a bur-
saiiti-ir Korr, ati<l spn-ad. 'IIk rxpoturv of comuwn wounds lo
lite act ion of the air, or lo the irriuition produced by dies, wil
(li>{>ose tltem to lake on tht> burwitutce dmracti-r.
" SoimMimea, from lh<> great irritation of l\iew tumours or
•ore*, the pnlKe hoconii^ aciwlerated, and the genera! sytUa
deruMj^-d, and di-ph-iion muit be resorted to. In all Ok harm
that had beMi proviuusly ntiaeked with biir«.iul(x-, and whid)
ex|)erit;iice bad told me Mere more liable than oil>cr« to a re-
currence of the eruption, I would at the beginning of the miat
insert *cions an near as 1 could to tlie parts previously nf&ctcd,
[>rovi<]ed they did not interiere with tho action of ilic Animtl.
Tills, by forming an artificial drain, would prevent l)»e unsightly
appearance of the foul ulcers which arc too frequently seen, and
wotdd rob the diteaso of all its (errors. At the satne lime I
woid<l not forget the importanec of cleanliness, and regiineiv
and regtdar exercise. During the existence of bursautee the
food KhouUl be nutritions, but not too stimulating. Fresh gitm
should he avoided, for it as surely tends to the formation of
burHauti-e son-« us the eating mangoes does to tlw appcaraiM
of boils ill the human subject." — Ld.]
CHAP. XLIV.
THE srKl'CTt;llE AND DISCA8SS OF TliK SKIK.
I
[Bkforc we proceed to its diseases, it will be proper to notice
briefly the structure of the skin. It is composed of three sepo*
rate portions. The outer, called the cuticle, is thin, transpveni*
and insensible, and when removed is quickly restored again.
Tile next portion, immediately under the skin, is the n-te-
mueoaum, being a sort of network secreting a pigiurnt, on llic
colour of which depends that of the skin. I1ie internal coat is
the cutis or true skin : it is considerably thicker than the otbrr
costs, titough its thickness varies at different parts, being thiniter
on |be inside of the limbs and about the mouth and nostrils. It
uossesses gri^t tensibilily, and is largely supplied with ncrt'n.
It is porous in its siructure, enabling the perspiration to post out
freely ; and it has, by the sanic nuvini', a ]iower of absorptioo,
and is well supplied with absorbents as well as otlwr vessels. It
not only possess^ in itself a high degree of feeling, but abo in-
THE BTBUCTURB AND DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 241
timately Bympatfauea with other parts, and particularly with the
stomach. Its sensibility is much greater than the parts under-
Death, so that it is enabled to guard tliem from danger. It
eives support to the roots of the hairs, which are found towards
it« internal surface; thus if the hairs are plucked out they are
soon reproduced, but if the cutis is destroyed the roots of the
hairs are so likewise, and the hair does not again appear, as the
new skin is incapable of producing it. The growth of new skin
is exceedingly tedious, as it only grows from the edges of the
old. It is, however, greatly assisted by the great extensibility
poBsessed by the old £i», which is thus enabled, in some mea-
sare, to cover the wound. — ■ Ed.]
Surfeit.
This is a disorder of the skin, consisting of small tumours or
pimples all over the body, which become small scabs, and then
gradually get well, while fresh ones continue to break out and
pursue the same course. The horse has generally a dry un>
healthy coat, and is hide-bound; sometimes there is swelling of the
hindilegB likewise, and general debility. Thisdisorderiscommonly
produced by unwholesome feeding and general ill treatment.
[In other cases the affection appears in horses full of flesh, in
whom it is usually manifested in the spring or early summer
months, and is caused by plethora or a redundancy of blood,
which, at this season of the year, is most likely to occur. Some-
times it is caused by a draught of cold water in hot weather,
and is then often preceded by shivering and a staring coat.
The symptoms of this complaint are often very similar to the
early stages of mange, and require much discrimination to dis-
tinguish the difference.
1 have known this disease, or an affection similar to it, appear
periodically, and occasion the animal to be denuded of hair, in
«[ute of every thing that could be thought of to prevent it.
Some foreign breeds of horses are much disposed to cutaneous
eruptions, particularly white Turkish horses.
TVeoAizCTi^ -~- If the horse is in a plethoric state, or in full
condition, he should be bled, and have a dose of physic ; and,
if necessary, the following alterative may be al^erwtuxls given.
15 however, the animal is poor and out of condition, the blood-
letting and purging should be abstained from, and tlie following
alterative given dauy for several days : —
Nitre 3 drs.
Sulphur 4 drs.
Black antimony 2 drs.
To be mixed with a little bran, and then given with the corn. —
Ed.}
B
349
DISK^HO or THE nORSC.
Hifte-bound.
Wlieu a lior»^'fi hide or skin xtickH to hit rilw, a* it were,
cannot be drawn onl or tnov<.>d nx in lh<- brttltlt^' i>tiitr, he i>
said to be hidc-bouitd. It indicates groat weaktina »i>d povmjr,
and eumclimvK a ditK>asi-<] slate of tltt^ niesenlcTic Vfssflt, and
con«umpiio». It U g«-iti>ndl>' occa^oned tty ill-uuge, and bad
or ini.uf1i('Ifnl food, and cannot be riMnoved witliuut proper
ffiilin^ nixl ^ood trcaiment.
'\'lw fullowiiig iiowder may be civen daily in the food, ik
cfTwi of vrliicli will be, by stimulating ibe stomach and Iwwcli,
not otily to awbt digestion, but ako to afToct the skin by tyiii-
pathy : —
C^nlltnridt-s, finely powdt'n-d 5 grs.
Pin>enio • '2 drs.
Su1[>ltutc of iron 3 dn.
ir the lioTw refuses this powder in liis food, it may be made
into a ball wiib treaclt^, and continual for a week or a forlnij;liI>
A gowl piece of grass is of great UTvicc in the early pari of
summer.
[Till* disease is analogous to the itch in the buinan subject.
ati<) U one of lite most infectioua diseases to which llie bonte it
liable.
It usually commences with small pimples in difTereiil (tarts of
the body, which burst and form tcabs. On rubbing off these
•etbs, there appear* a white spot coverf<l by a thin acrid fluid,
which conlnins \\iv touive of inTeetion. Tlu<«e Mabs, at Grtl,
are conliiK'<l to ot»e or two s|)ot!t, but, if not miiovfd, gradually
spread over the body. The parts most fre<]ik'nily nttacked are
the withers, the roois of ihe mane and tail, and tlw rump or
butlnrk». The animal, from the irritation received, rubs off
tlie iicub, and llie iicrid fluid spreads and forms a larger soabi
and thus denudes tlic afTfclfd part of twir, As the disease pro-
ceefb the greater part of (lio body becomes affected, and die
animal presenu n miserable npiK-nranco. Tfte constant irritalioii
allows him lui i-ont ; In- rapidly Io>« liesh, ami ihe skin, parlicu-
larly ihat of the neck, becomes comidcrnbly tJiickeued aod
wrinkled.
When the disease has existed sonte time, iis appearances are
loo striking to be for a moment mistaken ; but in the earlier
fitages ii may, in a great measure, be detected by rubbii^ the
animal with a stick, when he immediately exprctses his pleasure
by elevQiiiig and moving quickly the iippiT lip, and fxtendinf;
the head in » peculiar manni-r. Il is likewise by t)K> dtminulini)
THE STRUCTURE AND DISEASES OP THE SKIN. 243
of this symptom that we are enabled to ascertain the progress oF
the disease towards a cure.
The nature of tliis disease has been found, by microscopic
observation, to be owing to ihe presence of minute insects which
have been denominated acari. Similar insects have been found
in the itch of the human subject, but of a different species. It
has been found that mange can be communicated to the human
■ubject and' to other animals from the horse, although by no
means so readily as between animals of the same species. A
curious experiment was tried by a German student, a few years
since, by taking eight horse acari, of both sexes, and confining
them to his arm by means of a plaster. In a few minutes they
produced a great itching, which continued Rve days; but Uie
part afterwards got well of its own accord. Alter the lapse
of thirty-two hours, four of the insects had disappeared ; but
there were found several eggs and small passages under the skin
made by the insect, — in forming which, in all probability, the
itching was produced.
This disease is most frequently produced by contagion, either
by direct contact with a mangy horse, or by rubbing on the
root where a diseased horse has been rubbing himself previously.
Poverty, also, not unfrequently produces it; and thus it is often
found on poor commons or moors, where, however, it quickly
spreads from one horse to anotlier by contagion. When it gets
into a large stable of horses, it is difficult to eradicate it, in
consequence of its infectious character, and the greater portion
of the stud will probably become affected.
The treatment of this disease must principally consist in the
topical application of some specific. As in the itch of the
human subject, the chief remedy should be sulphur, which is
indeed more certain than any other. The animal should be
well cleaned, so as thoroughly to expose the sur&ce of the
al&cted parts, and the following liniment rubbed in with the
hand or^a piece of flannel : —
Sulphur vivum, or yellow sulphur 4oz.
Trwn, linseed, or olive oil l'2oz.
Oil of turpentine 2oz.
Mix.
The efScacy of the above may be greatly assisted by substi*
tuting three or four ounces of oil of tar for a similar quantity of
the oil. If the smell of train oil be objected to, the olive oil may
be substituted in stead ; and, if necessary, the ointment may be
coloured according to that of the horse. If black or brown, a
sufficient quantity of soot may be used to render the ointment
black, and it will, at the same time, assist its efficacy, for soot
has been found of great assistance in this disease. If the
K 2
DIBKASBS OP TtTE HOUB.
■tiinin) ifl b«y or elicsnui, the ointment m&v be coloured whli
Arin«nian bole. In obMinatc cases, white fu'llebore tiaa been
n<l<led (O the ointment with advantage. Bleeding is uselesi in
(lii« di.^ease ; and althoiigh it i* customAry to recommend mer-
curial physic, its exhibition it fiot always nnatlended with
danger, owing to the poverty of thr animiil, unless administered
in very moderate doKi*. In sencnd, it in belter to avoid physic
altogether, Init to give the rullowing powder for a week (ogctlter
with the food : —
Yellow sulphur 4 dr.
Black antimony 3dr.
The ointment iliuuld be applied daily for three or Tour day*.
wh«n the skill itliould be well washed with sonp and water, and
tile oiniin<>iu repeated, if necessanr, as before. Tliere t* little
or no danger of infection af)er the ointment boi been thorouglily
a|)plied. Unless tbe animal is much warned, his best ptaice it
at Krass during! the profjrcss of the cure.
The mange is very fre<)uenlly ailcnded by the presence of a
great number of Iic4>, and sometimes these lice occur witlioal
the mange, and occasion an itching similar to it. If they caaoot
be removed by waBhiiig, the ointment for mange will destroy
tbnn. — Ed.]
MaUrndm and SailetKten.
Mallenders is a disorder titat attacks the back part, or flexurt,
of tbe knee joint, and depends upon a combination of mange
and grease. It appears as a scurfy or seabby eruption, and is
often very painful, enu:'ing some degree of lameness from tbe
pain the animal fin-ls in moving llie joint. Sometimes it is not
M> contidenible ns to pmdticc lamencM, or any apparent incon-
Tenience, but generally liecomes irouhlrtomc and obstinate
unless attended to. Sallenders occurs in the fore pori, or flexure,
of the bock joint, and is of the same nature as mallenden.
'Hiey should first be well washed with soap and water, and all
the scurf and loose cuticle compleicly removed. They may
then be cured by the following ointments ; —
Ointment fir MaUendert and SaUatdera.
No. I.
Ointment of nitrate of mercury, commonly named ciirine
ointment.
No. '2.
Hog's lard, -I oz. ; melt, aitd stir in Goulard's extract 1 oz.
This ointineniis milder and more cooling than tlic former.
WARTS, WENS, ETC. 345
Crown Scab and Rat Tails.
These are of the same nature as mallenders, and may be cured
by the same means. They generally, however, leave a blemish,
consisting in a lose of hair, and diickenlng of the cuticle.
Crown scab occurs on the coronet, and rat tails in lines on the
back part of the leg, extending from the fetlock upwards.
CHAP. XLV.
WARTS, — WENS. — ENCYSTED TUMOURS. MELANOSIS.
Warts are schirrous excrescences, which appear on different parts
of the skin. They are sometimes very large ; at others small,
but very numerous. In some cases the roots are small, in others
large, and involving a considerable portion of the skin. Tlie
flanks, the belly, the penis, the nose, and the lips are the most
frequent situations of warts. If not too extensive, they should
be excised with the knife or the hot iron. The worst situation
for warts to appear is the penis, the extremity of which is some-
times so covered with them as to produce ^e^t inconvenience, and
even to interrupt the passage of urine. The glans penis, in had
cases, appears quite a fungous mass, presenting a bleeding and
disgusting appearance. In these cases, the only remedy is to
amputate the penis above the seat of disease.
The horse being cast as for castration, a straight staff is to be
rassed up the urethra, and cut down upon with a circular incision.
The divided arteries may be closed by torsion or ligature.
Mr. Blaine recommends the following ointment for the re-
moval of warts, when they cannot be conveniently removed by
the knife : —
Muriate of ammonia 2 dr.
Powdered savin 1 oz.
Lard 1^ oz.
To be applied once a day.
The success of this ointment is, however, doubtful ; arsenic is
often employed with greater effect in the form of an ointmenL
Wtnt are oval or round bodies found in various parts of the
body, under the skin generally, in a detached state. They are
easily removed by making an opening with a knife.
An encysted tumour is a collection of fluid within a mem-
branous sac, which often floats loosely under the integuments.
It must be cut into, and dissected out.
Sometimes we find a hard white tumour under the skin, and
n 3
346
nisEADO or TRE nonsE.
clo«cly coiiiicclccl witi) th« muMles. It often arise* from an
^xUtiiaI injury, an<l ih fret^ucntly found at the vliouldcrii
where h l* piXKliici'd by i-epcnted galls with the eollnr. ami tu
size and {)riitiiherance renders it impossible fur thi* horae lo
work witlioul gallin;;. TIjp only remedy is to dissect ihe
tumour carflully from t)»e surrounding skin and flesli, removiit)!
at the same time the galletl (kin. I have in this way removed
enlargements weighing fifteen poimtb and upwards, and rai-
dcrea an animal before uwImx ugain valuabk'. — Ea.}
[MrlaitMU,
Another description of tumour, appears in dtfTerent psrta of tbe
body. I lately met with a cww in a while AratMan hone,
belonging to a di«ttn;;tiiK)M-d nobleman, in whicli the tymptonu
were very singiilnr and ol>s.(;«re.
At first ihv liorse wiw nitarkt-d with t|iiL<modie pains; Uii'D
followed wt'^kness of the hind quarters, nhi<.-li, lliouoh slight al
finit, gradually incn^asod until lite neck of the bladder was
paralysed, and incapable of retaining the urine, whicli Howcil
away as it entered the bladder. On [ias»ing my hand up iIir
rectum, 1 detected a large tumour, which apfwurcd lo adhere to
the spine, and which, from pressing on the nerve* of tlio hind
extremities, accounted for ihcir partial palsy. 'Hk' animal »a»
destroyed, and the tumour was found of gre«t »\w, not oiilj
tiresaing on the nerves, but apjM-aiing within tlic cavity of tbr
arge veiti, the vena cava, the disposition and apitvaranoo of
which it had completely altered. On cutting iiilo the tumour,
it was found to be melanosis, a disease that had not been betbrc
noticed by anv English vcirriuary author.
Melanosis is dorinod by I.acnnec as '' a patholt^ical produc*
tion de|io»ited ujion the KurfiKV, or in tile substaiict? of on
organ, of a durkiKli or blucki«h colour, having no analogy with
the healthy tissuvH of the body." The disease which ww de-
scribed by Brugnini in 1781, as being hereditarily tramniitied
among the horses of Chevuso, and whidt lie termed Iietnur-
rhoida, was evidently melanosic; it wa« usually developed around
the root of the tail and the anu«.
Some years later, in 1 7H4, llie same disease was observed at
Drcsse GoUety. Latournelle transmit ted an account of it in
1800. He says, " there supervened in a young kIrIUod, on the
second year ol his covei-ing. black ^boutona,' or buds, aroinul the
anus. Tbey soon extended to the scrotum and vliealli. They
were placed between the skin and muscles, at flmi as large as a
Einiill nut, and they increased until ihey attained llie sixe of a
pullet's egg ; tliey did nut suppurate, and were insensible in the
MELANOSIS. S47
too^ In a short time all the cellular tissue was similarly
a£&cted, and the animal died. When cut into, a matter like the
grease of a cart wheel flowed out. All the progeny of this
Btallion which had the same colour was similarly affected; those
which were black, bay, roan, or iron grey, escaped.
In 1806, Laennec communicated to the faculty the result of
his observations on the same subject, which has been further
elucidated by other writers since ; but much still remains to be
done for iL The tumour may either be a black, opaque, homo-
geneous mass, or may contain a darkish -coloured fluid. Crohier
saw a tumour of the kind in a horse weighing thirty-six pounds.
The opinions of most writers as to the composition of the mela-
notic substance agree that its black colour is owing to the
presence of a large quantity of carbon. Many persons are of
opinion that the black principle is an aberration of the pigment
destined by nature to be deposited elsewhere, as the rete muco-
8um, the choroid, the hair. It is said that persons with light
hair, and elderly persons whose hair is white, as well as light
grej or white horses, are most commonly the subjects of this
disease. This opinion is certainly supported by the case related
by me, the horse being a white Arabian. He had one tumour
only externally perceptible, which was about the size of a
walnut, and had existed for some years ; but he had an immense
number deeper seated in various parts of the body. It will be
an interesting subject for future observation to ascertain whether,
and to what extent, his progeny are effected ; because, if they
really become affected to any extent, it will offer a strong
objection to the use of these white horses as stallions. Lec-
turers and writers have but little to say on the treatment of
the disease, and that little not very satisfactory. It appears to
me that, amongst our remedial agents, the use of iodine demands
some attention.
Melanosis appears to be a much more common disease in
India than in this country. In April, 1840, Mr. Jackson, of
the East India service, communicated the following paper on
the subject to the Veterinarian .■ — "I was pleased to find that
the conclusion I had come to in my own mind as to the identity
of the disease common among horses in Ir)dia, known by the
name of * diseased tail,' with * melanosis ' in the human subject,
was confirmed by your intelligent correspondent, Mr. W. C.
Spooner. The disease, as described at pages 163 and 164. of
this journal, is very common about Madras, but in most cases is
confined externally to the tail, which is occasionally enormously
enlai^ed. I have seen tumours round the anus, and in various
parts of the body. Light grey horses are most subject to it,
and of that colour those with curly manes and tails. I have
never had an opportunttv of making a post mortem examination;
n 4
DISCASCS OF THE IIOBSE.
i>r iltouflh cfiH) wliei) thev can no longer bear tlie cruppert
horsf^ af)i>c(«(l witli this tliaeaac do nol generally Buffer in houtb.
'llie iroatmcnl u§iially atloj)iecl ia. to cut awuj- tlic tumoun
wlien practi(»bl«. 1 Iiave seen Mr. Hooper, V. S., 4lli regimcni
Light Cftvalry, take slices off a tail like a wlMx-lwrigltt wouM
from a epukc of u whwi. The skin soon be*lcd over again, and
l\uf tail [ooki-<l i)uit(; respectable to what it tli<l bprori-.
" 1 have never tried any ititeriuil remedy ; but 1 think, as Mr.
Sixwner cuggi'tUi thai iodiiw mif^ht be lucful."— Ku.J
CHAR XLVl.
TUB trmUCI'UHE ANn rUNCl'lONS or TUE BYS.
The eye may be conniderwl la iu\ opiical instrumiiit, by m*ms
of which picturfK of i-xu-rnn) objet:tH nre (laintod as it were oil
an ex|iunsion of llie untie nerve, by which inmrcwiMit are con-
veyed to llie brain. It is fixed in a socket or lite head, moved
by various muscles, and bedded in fat, in onler in atTnnl fuciliiy
lo iu motions. It is nearly globular in shape, or, rather, il
resembles parts of two clobei, a negnienl of a smaller one being
apparently joined to the frustum of a larger one. It oonsisti
of several humours, and of various coats or membraives;, some
being traiisparfnt and oth<-rs opaque. In describing tlie ana-
tomy kiid physiology of the eye, the moat convenient method is
10 divide the subject into two parts, that is, the eye itsell^ and
iti appendages. Under llu- latter bead is comproheiided ibe
eyelids, the mustles which move them, the eyelashes, the la-
chrymal gland, the puiielu luclirymalia, and lachrymal duct, ihv
caruncle of the eye, the haw, and the mcmbiane named con-
junciiva, atHl the muscles by wliicli l\w eye is moved.
'Hie pl(lp(-bn(^, or eyeli<li', may be oon»idere<i as the shutters
of ill* eye, their office being lo exclude light when so required.
Tikey tsonust orcnrttloainous bodies covcnkl witli soft and elastic
•kin, and lined internally by the conjunctive membrane. Tlwy
arc moved by two kinds or orders of muscle*. The onu, com-
posed of circular libi-es, and named orbicularis, is ■ituat^'d io>-
medlaicly under the skin, and, by contracting, cIomi the ey^
lids : ihc other, named levator, is composed of straight fibres, is
situated under the upper eyelid, and, by contracting, opens ilw
eyelids. The margin of the eyelids is smooth and thickeitnl,
and secretes u muoous lliit<I, as well as the hairs, tiamt'd cilia, or
ej-elsshee. In the horse there ia only one eyelash, iliai is, the
superior, which serves to keep out dust from the eye, and inodo-
rate ttie light which comes diiectly from the sun, without oQeriug
THE STRUCTURE AND FUNCTIONS OP THE EYE. 249
any impediment to the reflected light which comes from the
sur&ce of the earth. Immediately under the Buperior part of
the orbit, or socket of the eye, and rather towards the inner
corner, there is a gtand of considerable size, which forms the
fluid named tears. This fluid is conveyed lo the under surface
of the upper eyelid, and is then diffused all over ihe eyp, by the
motion of the lids, as well as by the motion of the eye itself.
Id this action the upper eyelid is principally employed. As
the tears accumulate, they are directed, by the closing of the
eyelids, towards the inner corner, where they are rix;eived by
the open extremities of two ducts, which, soon uniting, form liie
lachrymal duct, a long membranous tube which terminiites in
the lower part of the nostril, where it may be distinctly seen,
with the fluid nimied tears flowing from it. The inner surface
of the eyelids is formed by the membrane named conjunctiva,
which, passing inward, embraces the globe of the eye, and scrvea
to keep it in its situation ; at the same time it is sufficiently loose
to admit readily of all its various motions. This membrane, tn
its healthy state, is nearly white; but in all cases of internal
inflammation, or inflammatory fever, becomes very red. In
staggers, and some other disorders of tlie stomach, and organs
subservient to digestion, it becomes of a deep yellow or orange
colour. This membrane is closely united to nearly one half of
the sclerotic coat, or white of the eye, and has been thought to
be continued in a very attenuated and transparent state over the
cornea also. In injuries of the eye, ibis membrane Iiecomes
red ; but, in internal diseases, it should always bo examined, as
redness in that case indicates general inflammatory action, and
points out the necessity of copious bleeding. In the inner
corner of the eye there is a small fleshy eminence, named
caruncle, which separates the two open extremities of the lachry-
mal ducts, named puncta lachrymaJia, and thus allows the tears
to be forced into them by the contraction of the orbicular muscle.
In the human eye, the tears pass from the puncta lachrymatia
into a small bladder or sac, which do<'S not exist in the horse;
in him there is one continued membranous tube from the inner
comer of the eye to the lower part of the nostril. The termi-
nation of tlie lachrymal talte, or duct, in the horse, has often
been mistaken for an ulcer in horses suspected of glanders; but
it does sometimes become ulcerated from the acrimony of the
tears, or from the strong preparations that are sometimes ap-
plied in diseases of the eye. I have seen this happen from the
application of powdered sal ammoniac (muriate of ammonia) to
the eye. Sometimes the termination, or orifice, of the lachrymal
doct becomes closed by inflammation, or the cicatrisation of an
ulcer, and then it bursts above, and the ruptured part becomes
aD idcer. According to Lafosse, the disease named fistula
860
lachrymalis takes place in the horse; but of tliia 1 hnTCSwn
onl^ one case. In glanders, howpver, ihrre i» often, indtvd
generallyi a slight purulent or mticous di.ichargc from tlie iiiiiet
corner of the eye, whit-h probably procee<i* from ilic Incltrynial
duct. Tl>c membmna niclilans, or huw, m it w rninmoul]^
luuDcd, is citiinicHl in the inner cnnier of the eye. 'I'liat pMt
wliicti coiiii-:! oviT ihc eye is a thin ulippery meiiibratie, which,
towards it* 1><'Mij>, U-eonn-* thicker, and cartiln^finoua. Its baw
is of M>mc til ick new, mid imbf<ldMt in fat; there are no muscln
atlaclied to it; but when ttiv eye iti drawn into the orbit, and
towards the inner comer, the hluis of the tiaw is prevented from
following it by the bone« of the orbit; the thin mcmbraoous
port of the ba» is thus forced over the eye, ami eerve^ to re-
move dust or dies that may have fallen upont-hc- corni>a.
The rye is moved by seven muscles, nliicli urisv from within
tbe orbit, or socket, and terminate in thin »))M.-ts of tendon,
which, with tlie sclerotic coal and conjunctiva, form what it
called the while of ilic eye. Of iliosc there are four s(raif>lit
muscle* rintnj; from the bottom of the orbil, and insertpd into
the ontt-r coat of the eye. One of them it utuatH at the iipi>rr,
one on the under, nntl one on each side. Their use i.i ftppnrcnt :
ftciing simultaneously they pull the eyr within the ortiit; and
acting M^aralcly ihey draw It« tmntiMirent surface to one tide
or tbe other, upward or downward, according to the situation of
the acting muscle. Itc«!dvi these, there are two obliqtre musdn,
the superior and ttie inferior; t)M- former rises from the back of
llteorbil, gnrti to (hi.- iiin<-r »ide, where it paimi<4 through a pullty;
its tendon then triiversi^ tn an oppofitc direction, and is in-
serted into t]ie upper atid outer piirt of tlie eye. 'i1>e inferior
is a shorter and stronger muscle, but, like the former, to which
it is an antagonist, takes an oblique course. These muscles
funiish, in some measure, a rotatory motion to the eye, and tliiia
giving expre^ion to these organs, are exercised particularly ill
viciouN hor»o«. 11)e seventh muscle, which is peculiar to brute»,
is called ilw retractor, and is situated within the atraiglit
muscles, and imini-<)iatcly surrounds the optic nerve. Its use is
to draw the eye farther into Oic orbit, and by pressing on dte
fat, which formii a toh cuibion for this organ, forces the haw to
protrude itself more readily over it. Tliis muscle poueeeee con-
nderable jwwcr.
Having de.icribed ihe n]i[H-ndage«, as they itn: termed, I &hn)l
proceed to a description of the eye itselli the structure and
economy of which is most curiou« and inirresting. It is said to
be composed of coats and hnmours, and thin, perhnps, is tlie bnil
manner of cooBideriiig it. 'lite firi!t com! that appears n tlie
cornea, or glass of the eye, which fonit; the inilerior [lart, and
is beautifully transjiarent. It may be considered a» iIm- window
THE STRUCTURE AND FUNCTIONS OF THE EVE. 251
of the eye, beiae that part of the caee formed to admit light. It
is not of a circular form, as in man, but of en irregular oval or
rather ohlong form when examined out of the socket ; but in its
natural situation in the living horse, that part which projects
beyond the eyelids is a regular oval, or rather of an oblong
form, and corresponding, in some degree, with the form of the
popil. It forms a larger portion of the globe of the eye than in
man, and, by its convexity, causes the rays of light which pass
through it to converge towards the pupil. This convexity may
be too great or too little, and, in either case, render vision some-
what imperfect, and cause starting. The convexity of the cornea
is preserved by the fluid which it incloses, named aqueout
hvanoar. On puncturing the cornea this fluid escapes, and then
the cornea becomes flat and wrinkled.
The second humour of the eye is situated immediately behind
the pupil, and b named the crystalline humour, or crysiaDine
lens. On taking it out, it appears to be a solid and beautifully
transparent double convex lens, the posterior surface of which is
more convex than the anterior one. It is found to become
denser and denser from the circumference to the centre; and
the] slightest pressure so deranges it, as to lessen or destroy its
transparency.
The crystalline humour may be considered as composed of
numerous concavo-convex lenses, admirably fitted to each other ;
those of the largest size having their circumference or edge op-
posed to and nicely joined to each other, thus forming altogether
a double convex lens. The point of union between the two
largest lenses is embraced by a band of muscular fibres, disposed
in a circular direction, and named the ciliary ligament. These,
by contracting, assisted probably by the muscles of the eye, in-
crease the convexity of the crystalline lens, or rather of the
series of concavo-convex lenses of which the eye is composed, in
a manner so just and equal, as to adapt it to the distance of the
object at which the animal is looking: while, by the relaxation
of these muscular fibres, the convexity of the lens is diminished
by its own elasticity. These changes take place with incon-
ceivable rapidity and accuracy. There are other muscular fibres
proceeding from the band of circular fibres named ciliary pro-
ceases in a straight, or rather radiated direction, towards die
second coat of the eye, named tunica choroides; these are so
arranged as to be drawn into folds, by which disposition they are
enabled to perform their office more easily, which is that of
drawing the lens towards the optic nerve, and thereby increasing
the intensity of vision, whereby the animal is enabled to see small
objects distinctly. The crystalline lens is enclosed in a trans-
parent capsule, which is not in contact with it, there being about
one drop, as it is computed, of a transparent liquid interposed
DI8EA9Bfl «V -m Mount.
uliiclt, frnm the ntiit lit mitt'* name wlio lirat obH'nrMl it, liBsbe«n
nlldl "liquor Morj^iipiii."
1 have M(-«m a ea«c wlicre l\w coiivcxiiy of llw lens hu been so
incrcMcd, by tm iinusuni di>grc>c of oontrnclion of Uio cirruUr
fibres named cilian,- li^ameiii, ihat it bunt tl>e oapaiilei nnd wu
forced out of its Hiiuaiion. I found it Ijinj; wiUi iu povtertnr
convex surfat^e on (lif inferior margin of lite iris ; nlwut half of
it appearing in the anterior chamber of tl>e eye, as it i* tormed.
The trajtsparency of the lens was not aSbcted, at least it did not
appear so to me, and I ratl>er think the accident bad occurrud
just at the time I observed it, from twitching the liorse violently.
I» cataract, a disorder in which the crystalline lens becotnes
opaque, it always becomes globular in it£ form from an irritable
stale of the band of circular librcs; the same effect may be ob-
>er\'cd in iIh> circular fibres of the iris, causing tbc pupil to be
small, even in n nioderatv ligbl, while th« inflammation is going
on which oocusions the eaturact ; but when the opacity ia SBcli
as to exclude tlii> light from tlH- potilerior (lart of tlic rj'e, which
contains tlic thinl or vitreous humour, with tlie clwiroid coal,
retina^ and ofilic nerve, then the circular fihi-es reliix, and llie
radiated fibres draw up tlie iri* somewhat irrc>gularly, which,
adhering to tlie cajuule of the opaque lens, the pujHl rcnuuai
permanently open, as in fig. 4. ]>. 254.
CContinually exposed to a changing light, — sometimes to the
glare of a summer's sun, at ntliem to the chastened light of the
moon or stars, — the eye would be of little use, unless it [Mwscfied
tl>e )x>wcr of nhuttiiig out too great a glare, or of admitting the
utmost during the hours of darkitew, or in tlie grey twilight.
litis power ia furnislted by the iris or curtain of tne eye, which
commenoes at the same place where the cornea b^ins, and
floats loosely in the aqueous humour, which it divides into two
parts, tlie anterior and tl>e posterior clianibcrs. The irb \s
composed of two orders of libres ; — tite one circular, wbicll, bj
contracting, diminislies, and even closes the aiierturc in ilic
centre, named pupil ; the other rsdiatn), which, by contractioD.
opens or enlai^|[e< tlie aperture. These muscufar fibres are
enlirrly independent of the will, but synipaihixe intimately
with tlte rvtina, to as to lessen iIk' pupil from tbo stimulus of
light.
Thi« may be readily seen in the horse by alternately shading
ll>e eye and cxpcwing it to a strong light, tmder which operation
tlte pupil diminish4>s from tlw <-lii'ets of lighL lliut lite iria
admits jum light sufficient to make tlic object distinctly visible^
and exchiilfs all auperiiltnndonl raj"*- Light, however, produces
no immediate (-nV-ci on the iris itaelf; for when tlie optic nerre
is punilyKcd, tlic iris is no longer affected by light or darkueu.
lite iri« derives its name fntm its brilliancy, and its colour <le-
THK STRUCTURE AND rUNCTIONS OP THE EVR-
243
pends on a pigtneni eccreted on its poatcrior auHaoe, and whoae
ofGce ia to prevent the rays of light from penetratiog throuffti it.
In (he )ioi-se, this pigment renders the ins generally of a light
hronn colour; but, in ionie instanccB, the pigment is wnniing,
and llie iris appears white, and llie animal is eatled wall-eyed.
'iiiii circunutiuicc, lt»»ugh it by no mi-ans adds to the beauty of
tbi- animal, is, how4-\-er, no injury to lliv vision ; in fact, it neither
adds to nor dimtnixlics night. — to.]
In the human eye thi- pupil in bliirk, and ofa circular form,
and fonti« what a coinmoiilv cullcit iho apple of ihi- ryo. In tht'
hor^> it is of a dark blue cuUiur, niMl of an ubioiig figur^^, with
its long diameter always paralU-l to the Itorizon, in whatever
position the head mav be placed. This uniform parallelism of
the long diameter of the pupil with the horizon is effected by
means of tlte oblique muscles before described.
W'liiii iIm- horse stands in the stable in a modernlo light, the
pupil is open or laT;gei by the prcponderantaclion of i)k- radlalcd
fibres, M in fig. I.; but wh^n taken out of the stable,
TbtIcA li;^ -r. -.)<iL .. ii I '<- <.;^ with thepu|Hl ooiiti-ic><.<< I <i ' >| .'>uic la VgM.
Th* liffn flgurc Wiom the pupil to an clpan^od (Utc.
a The pupil. ti fr 'Iht iiH.
c I Tlic oorpor* Blftra, or hUck hodivs Ixnli ml the uiipvr mul loircr put* of tliD
pupil.
rf Ttw OMBibmia mMiBm or b«w.
the circular fibres prevail, and the pwpil becomes much smaller,
a« in ftg. 2. : and if tlw eye be exposed to the sunshine, the
p«pil become* smaller slUt, and scarcely perceptible.
Wlitrt lite nerrotw utructiirx- of the eye is morbidly irritable,
as in ophthalmia, tl»e pupil coniinuen small, and somcitmrs marly
clowd, even in a moderate light But when the lens bccoim-s
opaque, the ophthalmia and morbid irritiibilily cciue, and tlie
fupil tlH-n l>Fcomes open and irregular in in form, aa in llg. 4.
ig. ti, irprncnts a partial opacity of the lenn, or i»r-
ttal ailar.U'l, or, as it is more commonly called, specks in the
pupil ; hen; the form of (lie pupil is not altered, and it remains
capable of coniracting or opening, according to the d<^rec of
light it is expoHnI tn.
264
IF TDK MOISB.
irv.3.
BH.
1W rifM Ifu^ rtfNHM* ■ eomiilMr MUM, Ite MTMaUine ha b^ I
*<— ■ TW M BfM* nfHMMt ■ fanUI cMtnM, lb* riMi Wiy r^
In tbe bone thnv dtp bJack penduloiu bodtcs atuctinl 19 1
Miprrior mar<pn of I'lO ins. These servp, like tiiff nliaa
iip(HT ereUflh. lo inodcrUc or nccliide ilie <Iin-ci rnj-a of I
which proceed froin the ain, without tmerrufiting inoie
■re renKted b}- itir eurraee of the earth ; by tliis admiralilttl
rnian be wee wliat it !» neceemry he should >«<', vhile tht
powrrfti) slitnulns of iho direct ra\-s Iroin (be sun arv exrIiiiM
or MiScKDlly modrrmted. Time black bodies enable- the anini
■bo 10 chiM- the (Hipil conipletelr, and tttut occaswiuillv. w wt*
tbe urrvoiM structure of (be eye is morbidly irritahlr, .
the 1^1 altofretber.
Air lltU [urt of (lie eyv which ii> fwaterior 10 (ho
oceiii>i<'d be tho third or riAvtmr Ajimdw, oitd if 1^ .;
mnur that the cf^-ntAllinc- lent ii imbeddt-d. Tbr
bttmour u pcrfecttf transparent, and consists of a fl ' '
n mimenw* small ttamparent cHli, all of which .
indaaed n one delicate tnuiiparent nictnbraiK
■ladiooidM. If the vitreous fiunmur is rul. In
wamort, a Auki like wntrr, drops from n
atmn m be nothitu,' toon tJuui wnier, prwi;.
■■If in solutfin, wtiicb faeapes whm w tnui ]
dMa cat open. . ^- .
Tht HMt^^-*^ wlPTom tiiitmxir 11) whwrii
becUedill
ih
/& nitdl
u convexi
, iiKlittincl,
, « fn-ijiu-tit
, wo ofltn find
i,r the IvtlM i» tn(»
■ n not coiivcrnfd
old iicojiW wlio
DMMWB «r fflB HOMB.
)>(.-rronm ftii important officxv in addition to th&I which it
foriiit as ft |>ai't o( a ntost biiiiitirul and wonth-rriil optical ap
rstiu: tlint is, it tcrvvs to collect and rvluin llic imprpuio
objocts, to afford time for tliv inlolWt to jud^ ufilicirdistaD
M wll lU oftlioii- dtl)cn*nt pro|>erii<«. Tlit- iipiic nrrvc poasn
throiigli an opitiing in itic uultom of tlu> orl>it, nnnit^^l lorainea
laccruni, and crossing tiie opfxnite m>rvr, tcrmiii.ilc* in ili.it pjin
of the hrain namnl tliiilamiu iicrvi optici. TliiM <U'<:u»bi(ion of
tlie optic nerves has be«ii a subject of controverty vritli luulo-
misti. But the fact is ooaiplct^v proved by uii vxiimiRalion of
the brain and optic nerves of n korse affected with one calanul
only ; and by an cxaminntion of tW brain and optic nerve* of a
sheep affected with that kind of In-drocqiti.^tus which depend*
upon Uie cxistetm- of an hydatid in the ri^ht ventricle of tlv
brain, for it it tl>c Hghl ventriolv that is ^nentUy afr<^«tc«).
In both caxtt, the iK'rv«> which proceeds from tl>c nfiMicd
thalamus will lie found ftinalUn- than the other, and it will be
found umaller a)Ho nOi^r it ha« crosseil t)M' other nerve, and lo
the piiini wliere it enleii tlir sclerotic coat of the eye. Ti*e
lludami nervorum opticorum I consi(h-r as tJte founiuin of
vision, for it is here the itiipre«»ions of objects are iiltimairly
received.
On Vitiott.
[Before we enter on the dttewn of lite eyo^ it would be wrii
to notice briefly the phenomena of vision.
A ray of li^hi, whtru it iinpiriges oti a both', is subject nlluf
to reflection, nb^orptiou, or transmission. If reflectecl, it recoils
from the surface of the object which it cannot pemicate, in tlte
same manner as a ball would rebound if thrown against a wall.
Each ray of light is composed of 6e^■e^ colours, wliich n»y,
indt-ed, be 8ciiaraied by a triangular piece of f^Loss, called a
prisnit ajid different obji-cf have tlie power of u^Morbing some
of these coloun and reflecting othen. The coluim absorbed
are, of counie, retidentl invisible, aitd those reflected are seen ;
and ihtts it is oecording to the colour or colour* reflected tl<al
an object apjtean j;reeti| or blue, or yellow. When it appears
white all the colours are teftected, aivd when black they are all
absorbed.
It is a taw of optics tlial the angle of reflection and that of
incidence are equal. I'he former signifies the dir(y;uon in
which the object or ray strikes a mirror, and tlM' latter ihv angle
at which it may be seen. They may be repr<-«etited by two per-
sons standing at an ct|ual inclination from a mirror in whtdi
they may be "ble to see each other's imago, thonj^h not suf-
ficiently op)MMite as to discern their own. It is found tliat iIk-
THE 8TBDCTUB£ AND FUNCTIONS OF THE EYE. 257
degree of reflection depends on the degree of obliquity with
which the ray impinges on the surface of the reflecting object,
and thus the reflected Jight of the sun and moon is greatest
when rising or setting.
All bodies have the power of absorbing rays of light, but in
different degrees. Opaque bodies absorb more light tlian trans-
parent ones; and of these black substances absorb most, and
white in the least degree.
When a ray of light enters a transparent medium of greater
density than what it has just left, it becomes refracted or turned
from the perpendicular ; and when the density is less than before,
it appears refracted towards the perpendicular. Thus, when a
stick is plunged into water, it appears broken at the surface of
the liquid, which is owing to the rays of light being broken as
they pass from the object into the air. S0| likewise, when a
ray of light impinges on a curved surface it is refracted; and
thus a dense transparent body, of a convex figure, will collect
the rays into one common point or focus, whicn may be shown
by the common burning-glass. Concave lenses have a contrary
effect, causing the rays to diverge.
The axis of a convex lens is exactly perpendicular to its two
surfaces, and this, in a double convex lens, passes through the
centre ; and when a ray of light comes in this direction, it passes
directly through without any refraction ; but an oblique ray is
turned inwards, so as to form a focal point with a ray coming in
a similar manner from the other side.
These being the principal laws by which vision is governed,
we are enabU^ to understand the distinct offices of the various
parts of the eye.
The tranxpmrent cornea, the window of the eye, serves to collect
the rays, and, by its convexity, to refract them towards the
ocular axis.
The aqueous kumotir, besides its office of preserving the con-
vexity of^ the cornea and allowing the iris to float loosely amidst
it, serves likewise to refract the rays, from its being a denser
medium than the atmosphere.
Tlie ayttaUine lens, however, is the principal refracting glass;
receiving the rays in some measure retracted by the cornea and
aqueous humour, it brings them to a focus on the retina.
When either the cornea or the crystalline lens is too convex,
the object is brought to a focus too soon, and vision is indistinct,
and the person near-sighted. This is, probably, a frequent
defect in the eyes of horses that shy, in which we often find
full gt^le eyes. When, however, the cornea or the lens is too
flat, a contrary defect is produced, and the object is not converged
soon enough. This is a frequent compUint in old people, who
s
DisBAses or the soiwk.
are rc)icro<I by convex glosws, whilu ttio fonncr Aeteci n rcvnt-
dicd by CQOcavc Iviuwi.
Tlic principal u»c of Uie vitreous liuntour !• to preserve tbo
globkilnr foriii of ttiv rye, aiitl tliuii alFord a sitScient tiuriace for
thu upri-ndiiig out of the retiriii, oil which, as bt-fun.- obKrvMl, a
picture- ot'cxii-riial objertii is ptilniitl, as muv be Bt«n by looking
into ttte eyi^H ol' u lior»e or any otlier animal.
In lakinj; this course, it muat be evident that tbe ravs «hidi
enter at the upper part of tlic cornea arc refracted at tVc lo<tei
part of the retina, and viet vers^ ; and llius objects are actually
represented in an inverted position, biit, from being all paintnf
in the same relation to each otlicr, they do not apiK-ar invcrlvd
to the mind. — Ex>.]
CHAP. XLvn.
i
aUIASU or THB eye. — ophthalmia, StHFL£ AND SPECUIC
— CATAIlACT. AMAUROSIS.
[TiiK rycoftlie Imrse iit excn'dtn];ly liable toducise — quite ai
much, if not more so, tlianttu- liunuin c-yej but, imliltc it, these
diM«»e« are by no nteans subject to »uch grcot variety, but winy
Itc com pff bended by a few iIiviiii(>i)H. We have, iht-n, iiin]>)i;
opbihalmia, specific opbtlialmin, cniaract, and atn«uroii» or
parnlyxis of tlie optic nerve.
Simple Ophlhaimiu.
This disease arises from some external injury, such as a blotr
from a stick or whip, a bite from another horse, or tbe intniiiion
of some foreign binly. It is inijwriant to distinguish ibis dis-
ease front that we bavR presently to notice, which mav be done
without much difficulty, by an attention to the following symp-
tom*. Unless tbe injury i.t very triflinji^ there is iisual^ much
swcllin)j( and inflammation of the eyeltdi and its envelopments-
Shortly afienrards we find an opacity of tin* trani'[>arciit cornea;
this opacity rarely spreafb over lite whole of tlic eyis but is
much greater at one part than anotlier. On iitspeclitig the
eye in a lateral position, we find that the aqueous humour is
either not affected, or only partially »o ; and on looking into tbe
interior of tbe rye, wc find the parts presenting a hvaltlty ap-
pearance.
'lytatmrnt. — It is very important to be prompt and fnrmtie
in our treatment; for otherwise there is great danger of tbe
icity increasing and involving the whole of the come«> so as
DISEASES OF THE EYE.
to occasion blindness, or otherwise to be pennanently fixed in
one part, so as to obstruct vision and defy all our attempts for its
removal. When the inflammation is considenvble we should
lance the inflamed vessels of the eyelid, and encourage the bleed-
ing as much as possible, and at the same time open the angular
Tein which passes from the eye down the face. In performing
this operation it is necessary to cut in some measure across the
vein, in order to ensure its bleeding freely. If the blood should
not flow &eeljS it will be better to bleed from the neck at the
same time. 'Ilie eye should be frequently fomented with warm
water the first day, and af^rwards the following lotion should be
applied round and in the eye six or eight times a day : —
Cold water 1 pint.
Tincture of opium 1 ounce.
A dose of physic should be given ; and if, in a day or two,
there be still much inflammation, a few quarts of blood may be
taken from the neck of the afiected side. When the inflamma-
tion has in great measure abated, but a film or opacity remains
on the cornea, a few drops of the following stimulant should
be applied twice a day with a camel's hmr brush : —
Distilled water 1 ounce.
Nitrate of silver 1 or 2 grains.
Or instead of this, a little vinumopii, or tincture of opium diluted
with an equal quantity of water. — Ed.J
Specific Ophthalmia, or Inflammatimi of the Eye.
[This disease used to be called by farriers moon blindness,
nnder the idea that its periodical attacks were influenced by the
moon, as it some^mes occurs about once a month. This idea,
however, is altogether absurd, and its periodical returns are
rarely so frequent as once a month. The disease consists of a
specific inflammation of the various parts of the eye occurring
without any immediate external cause; and though in great
measure curable for the time, yet occurring again and agmn,
nntil tlie structure of the eye is so changed by these re-
peated attacks, that blindness follows, or otherwise a cataract
takes plac^ either total or partial.
The tymptonu generally appear somewhat suddenly ; in the
evening, perhaps, there might have been nothing amiss, but on
the following morning sometimes both eyes, but usually one eye
only is found nearly closed and suffused with tears ; there is
great impatience of light, and indeed it is somewhat diflScult to
induce the animal to open the lids sufficiently for examination,
and when be does so, the pupil is found exceedingly small, so
9 2
S54 nisKASRS or the horse.
Fig. 3. Pig. <.
Thr right figuir n-pnwiiiit ■ (unqiltw MlarwI. Ihc njiuUiiia Inu imag
Dptiquc. The left figiuc rvpmcnt* « |aMbl caUrxt, Uic tuioa bdag —
■am* dogno.
in
In the horse llierc nrc bistck prndulotis bodice aitached to the
superior margin of tlw; iri>. Tlio«o serve, like the cilium, or
iiI)IH'r eyelash, to moflernie or <>xcIu(U> the diR-cl r«yfl of lij^l
which [>n)crtil from the sun, without ititvrrupling those which
are reflfciwl by ilw surlace of the earth ; by this odmirublc pro-
vision he eees what it la necessary he should see, whih- ilw too
powerful stimulus of the direct rays from the sun are excluded,
or sufficiently moderated. These black bodies enable the anitiul
nlw to clo«e the pupil completely, and thuf occosionallvi or when
the nervous ttructurc of ihe eye is morbidly irritubfe, exclude
tlie light itlloffethcr.
All that ginri of the eye which k ponteriur to tho irlK is cliielly
occupied by the third or citrrom kununtr, and it is in tlits hu-
mour that the crystalline lent i« imbi^dcd. '\'\k vitreous
humour i« |)erfeclly tnini[KirL>Ml, and consists of a fluid, inclosrd
in nuroerotu small transparent celU, all of which appear to be
inclosed in one delicate transparent membrane, named tunica
aracliiioidea. If the vitreous humour is cut, by snipping it with
scissors, a fluid, like water, drops from il freely, so that it ap-
poari to be nothing more than wnicr, proliably hultling a tittle
salt in (oliition, which escapi^H when the transparent cells are
tlius cut open.
'ritat part of the vitreons humour in which tlie lens is im-
bedded is dilTerent from the other [lurU, and of the conmtieiice
ofjelty. Immedialelv hehi»d tlie ciliarv ligament, a.s It is
termed, the arachnoid coat may be inflated with a small blow-
pijic, and made to resemble a circular canal; this has been
c<dl»l, from the name of the person wlio first ob<er\'ed it, llie
ciivular canal of Petit. It is supposed to be conncicicd with the
radiated fibres of the iri*. I have seen the whole of iliis humour
in the eye ofa !>heep that li-iil an hydatid in the right ventricle
of the brain of the couiistenei- of jelly.
[The retina is a tine <letieaie triin.iparent iiK'inbrane, on which
a picture of external objects is painted. It is ^rend out on ilio
THE STRUCTURE AND FUMCTIONS OF THE EYE. 255
back part of the vitreous humour, and has the choroid coat im-
mediately beliind, which therefore acts like the quicksilver of a
looking-glass in preventing the light from passing through. The
retina is supposed to be a continuation of the optic nerve.
The choroid coat, whose use has been specified, appears to be a
net-work of blood-vessels, secreting a dark paint on both its sur-
&ces. It is analogous to the rete-uiucosum of the skin, and in the
human subject is quite black, being that which gives the colour
to tlie pupil of the eye. In animals, however, we observe a
great variety in the colour of that portion of it immediately op-
posite the pupil, or at the back of the eye, being in the cat of a
yellow colour, and in the horse of a greenish blue. The light
colour of this part serves to reflect some portion of the light ad-
mitted ta the eye, and thus economises and renders available the
partial light that is always present even in the darkest night
and thus it is that a horse is enabled to pick his way with ease
when his rider is unable to distinguish a single object. The
portion of the choroid coat which accomplishes this effect is
termed the tapetum iucidum, or luminous carpet. — Ed.]
The last and most considerable coat of the eye is the sclerotic
coat, which is a very strong, thick, white, and opaque membrane)
including all the other coats and humours, except the cornea.
The sclerotic coat forms the greater portion of the globe of the
eye, and is intimately united, towards the anterior part, with the
rornea, which may be viewed as bearing the same relation to the
iclerotic coat as the glass of a watch does to the case. By ma-
ceration in water the cornea separates from the sclerotic coat
completely.
The optic nerve penetrates the posterior part of the eye, not
in the centre, but rather inwardly: still, however, it is central
with respect to the axis of vision, for both eyes are always ex-
erted in looking at objects, and, in doing this, incline a little
inwardly, so as to make the optic nerve central with respect to
the object, or rather as to the axis of vision.
Anatomists have supposed that, were this the case, the insertion
of the optic nerve would cause a dark spot to appear before the
eye, ana that the nerve, therefore, enters a little inwardly. But
this is an error, as has been demonstrated by the experiment of
tbe late Dr. Darwin, in which, after looking at a coloured object
stedfastly for some time, upon shutting the eyes the impression
will remain a considerable time, and in an equal degree upon
the insertion of the optic nerve, and every part of the retina,
without the appearance of any dark spot wnatever. This not
only proves that that part of the optic nerve which enters the
sclerotic coat, and from which the retina proceeds, is susceptible
of the impressions of light in the same degree as the retina ; but
that the vitreous humour, or rather its arachnoid membrane,
DiaeA889 OP TflB HORSC.
ncriurnts an important ofiioe, in addition to tliat wlucli i( [wr-
ibnns nsa part of a moat beautiful and wonderful optical appo-
rntiu; iltat is, it serves to collect and ivtain tbe iaiprPMioif uT
0hj«cls, to aSbrd time for tlic inlcUect to judge of tlicir distance^
■a woll as of tlicir dillvrpnt projicriics. Tlic opiic nerve |uu*a
through an (){K-nin;> in tli« boKoiii of the urhii, iianK-d Ibrameti
laccTum, am) crussinj; iIm: opposite iierre. icrminau-s in thai part
of the brain iianii-d tlntliiniiis itervi optici. This docussalioa of
tlip optic ncrT<>» hiis bi-vti .1 ^ttibject of controvensy with aoalo-
miits. But ih^ tact U conipkletv pravod by an vxaminatioD of
tiio brain antl optic n<-rv(>s of a iiorso afiV-ctrd with ono cnlaracf
only; and by anexamiimtion of the brain and optic nerves of a
sheep afitH'teil with that kind of Imlmce^ilii^ui which drpirnih
upon the existence of an hydatid in llic right rcniricle of ihc
braiii) for it is tbe Hght ventricle that ia generally atrecte<l.
in holh cases, the nerr<> which procccda from tlie nf)cct«d
tliatamua will be found smaller than the other, and it will lie
found aniallcr also after it has crossed tite other nerve, and 10
the point where it enters the sclerotic coat of tlie eye. Tlw
thalaini nervorum opticorum 1 consider as the fountain uf
viuoii, for it ia here thv impressions of objecto arc ultitnatdy
reccivett.
Oh t'ision.
[Before wp enter on the di«casn of the eyp, it would be wt-II
to notice briefly the phenomena of vision.
A ray of ii^ht, when ii impinges on 11 body, is Hubject either
to reflection, absorption, or tranMnitaion. 11 rcflecte<l, it recoili
from the surfiiee of tbc olm-ct which it cannot permittte, in tlie
Munc manner as a ball would rcbouikd if thrown sgniii»t a wall.
Each ray of light is compoitxl of seven colours, which may.
indeed, be aeparated by a ti'iangular piece of glass, called a
prism, and different objecls have lite power of absorbing some
of these colours and reflecting others. The colours absorbed
are, of course, rendered invisible, and tltusv roflt-ctcd are seen ;
nod thus it is according to llic colour or colours reflected thai
an object appears green, or blue, 01- yellow. Wlicii it ap|h<ars
whi((> nil th4> colours are reflecte'l, and when black tliey arc all
sluorlMsJ.
It in a law of optica titat i!)c angle of reflection and that of
incidence are equal. The former aignifiee the direction iu
which tbe object or my atrikea a minoi-, and the Latter the aiiglc
at which ii may be seen. Tliey may be representwl by two u-r*
sons standing at an equal inclination from a mirror in wliicb
they may be able to see each oilur's image, iWngh not luf-
lieiently opposite as to flisoem their own. Il ix Ibund that (he
THE STRUCTURE AND FUNCTIONS OV THE EYE. 257
degree of reflection depends on the degree of obliquity with
which the ray impinges on the surface of the reflecting object,
and thus the reflected light of the sun and nu)on is greatest
when rising or setting.
All bodies hare the power of absorbing rays of light, but in
different degrees. Opaque bodies absorb more light than trans-
parent ones; and of these black subsunces absorb most, and
white in the least degree.
When a ray of light enters a transparent medium of greater
density than what it nas just lef^ it becomes refracted or turned
from the perpendicular,- and when the density is less than before,
it appears refracted towards the perpendicular. Thus, when a
stick is plunged into water, it appears broken at the surface of
the liquid, which is owing to the rays of light being broken as
they pass from the object into the air. So, likewise, when a
ray of light impinges on a curved surface it is refracted ; and
thus a dense transparent body, of a convex figure, will collect
the rays into one common point or focus, which may be shown
by the common burning-glass. Concave lenses have a contrary
effect, causing the rays to diverge.
The axis of a convex lens is exactly perpendicular to its two
surfaces, and this, in a double convex lens, passes through the
centre ; and when a ray of light comes in this direction, it passes
directly through without any refraction; but an oblique ray is
turned inwards, so as to form a focal point with a ray coming in
a similar manner from the other side.
These being the principal laws by which vbion is governed,
we are enabled to understand the distinct offices of the various
parts of the eye.
The transparent cornea, the window of the eye, serves to collect
the rays, and, by its convexity, to refract them towards the
ocular axis.
The agueoiu humour, besides its office of preserving the con-
vexity of the cornea and allowing the iris to float loosely amidst
it, serves likewise to refract the rays, from its being a denser
medium than the atmosphere.
The crystalline lent, however, is the principal refracting glass ;
receiving the rays in some measure refracted by the cornea and
aqueous humour, it brings them to a focus on the retina.
When either the cornea or the crystalline lens is too convex,
the object is brought to a focus too soon, and vision is indistinct,
and tlie person near-sighted. This is, probably, a frequent
defect in the eyes of horses that shy, in which we often find
full goggle eyes. When, however, the cornea or the lens is too
flat, a contrary defect is produced, and the object is not converged
aoon enough. This is a frequent complaint in old people, who
358
DISEASKB 09 THE HOISR.
are reliovoil by miivex glassc*, wliiltt Oir former (Wfcct is romo-
died by concave Ivdkcs.
Thv principal me or ttie vitreous humour i* to preserve llii'
globular fonn of Uitt eye, and tliua alTurd a lufficient surfftce for
tl)(^ i]>re(ulitig out of (l>e retina, on wlitch. oi bt^furt; obacrved, a
picture ofexiertuil obje^'la is painti?<l, aa msv be seen by looking
into tlie ey<>s of a liorsc or any oiltcr snimal.
In taking this course, it must be evident that the raya whicb
enter at the upper part of the cornea arc refracted at the loner
part of the retina, and vice errtd ; and thus objects are actually
represented in an inverted positioit, bul, from toeing all painira
in the same relation to each oiIkt, lliey do not ap|>ear inverted
lo lite mind. — El).]
CHAP. XLVII.
I
DISEASES OF THB KVK. — Ol'IITIIALMIA, SIHrLB AND SFECiriC
^ CATAHACT. AUAUROSI*.
[The rye of the horae is exceedingly liable todiscvM — qniteu
much, if not more so, than the human eve ; bul, unlike it, thne
diat^aaes are by ii» means subject to sueJi great variety, but may
lie eomprehendcd by a few divisions. We have, ihrn. ninipM:
ophtlialmia, s]>ccific ophthalmia, cataract, and aiiuiuroaii
paralysis of the optic nerve.
SimjiU Opktkatmui.
This disease arises from some external injury, sacb as a
from a stick or whip, a bile from another horse, or the intrusion
of some foreign btuly. It n im|>ortant to distinguish this dis-
ease from that we have presently to iiotieci winch may be done
wiiltout much difficulty, by an attention to the fulioning symp-
toms. Unless the injury is very trifling, there is usually mucli
sivelling and inflammation of tne eyelids aitd its cnvelopmeutf-
Shortly afterwards we find an opacify of tlie transparent comen;
this opacity rarely spreads over il>e whole of the rye. but it
much greater at one pari than another. On inspecting die
eye in a lateral position, «c find that tlie aqueous Jiumour it
either not aifeGtodr or only partially so ; and on looking into ik
interior of tbc eye, wc find the parts presenting a hcttltliy ap-
pearance.
TVeatmnt. — It is very important to be prompt and energetio
in our treatment; for otherwise there is great dai^r of (he
opacity increasing and involving the whole of the cornea, so at
DISEASES OF TH£ EYE.
to occasion blindness, or otherwise to be permanently fixed in
one part, so as to obstruct vision and defy all our attempts for its
removal. When the inflammation is considerable we should
lance the inflamed vessels of the eyelid, and encourage the bleed-
ing as much as possible, and at the same time open the angular
vein which passes from the eye down the face. In performing
this operation it is necessary to cut in some measure across the
Tein, in order to ensnre its bleeding freely. Ifthe blood should
not flow freely; it will be better to bleed from the neck at the
same time. The eye should be frequently fomented with warm
water the first day, and afterwards the following lotion should be
applied round and in the eye six or eight times a day : —
Cold water 1 pint.
Tincture of opium 1 ounce.
A dose of physic should be given; and if, in a day or two,
there be still much inflammation, a few quarts of blood may be
taken from the neck of the affected side. When the inflamma-
tion has in great measure abated, but a film or opacl^ remains
on the cornea, a few drops of the following stimulant should
be applied twice a day with a camel's hair brush : —
Distilled water 1 ounce.
Nitrate of silver 1 or S grains.
Or instead of this, a litUe vinum opii, or tincture of opium diluted
with an equal quantity of water. — £d.]
Specific Ophthalmia, or Iiifiammaiioa of the Eye.
[This disease used to be called by farriers moon blindness,
under the idea that its periodical attacks were influenced by the
moon, as it sometimes occurs about once a month. This idea,
however, is altogether absurd, and its periodical returns are
rarely so frequent as once a month. The disease consists of a
specmc inflammation of the various parts of the eye occurring
without any immediate external cause; and though in great
measure curable for the time, yet occurring again and again,
nntil tlie structure of the eye is so changed by these re-
peated attacks, that blindness follows, or otherwise a cataract
takes place, either total or partial.
The lymptomt generally appear somewhat suddenly ; in the
evening, perhaps, there might have been nothing amiss, but on
the folrowing morning sometimes both eyes, but usually one eye
only is found nearly closed and sufl'used with tears ; there is
great impatience of light, and indeed it is somewhat difficult to
induce the animal to open the lids su£Bcienily for examination,
and when he does so, the pupil la found exceedingly small, so
s 2
DISKAStCS ftr THE HOttSf!.
u to keep out tlie liglit m mucli at pocvtible. The cornea is not
so opa<]iie lu whvti i)»v iiinainniutioii ii brought oii by an external
injury ; but on looking into the interior of itie eye we obsern
ihftt it lias lost iu taual lirigliiness. The mtendant! of Uie
horse itsualty report that some hay seeds must liavcf^oi into tlie
eye, or titat he must have injured it in some way ; but a proper
examination nill detect tW diHi-reiicc, and tins will be greatly
assisted if wv can ascertain tliat tltc horsv luid had a previous
attack.
The progrcM ol' the case will depctid on the treatment em-
ployed, tliv d(-|;;rec of inflammation, and the particular paru
mu»t iiHvclcd.
I have known a <nim> terminate in bltnditras from cataract in
ihe counte of three day^ and in another cose tlie animal aa*
aubjeci to |>eriodical attacks tor eight years witlioul entirely
losinfC vision at last. Sometimes the crystalline lens is prii>-
cijwlly allected ; in other cases the iris bi?ars tl»c brunt of ihe
attack ; in some instances the aqueous humour and the contca
are pvtncijuLlly aflTcclcd, and in others the viireoiu humour and
the relitui art chiefly iliwnneil. When the crystalline lens it
principally al!'ecie<l, it usually become* ogiatiue, or wlwit is calUtI
ft cataract fornu, wliicli, however, may not be to total lu entirHy
to destroy vision. When tlie iris a chidly intlanted, ilie cast-,
1 imagine, does not terminate so quickly in blindness, but (lie
attai^ks are of\en frequent and very troublesoine, and atteixted
by much general irritability.
When the vitreous humour is greatly atfecti'd, the interior of
the eye often becomes of a yellow muddy colour, and the eye
•ometiines shrinks from absorption of its substance.
Cnuses. — Tlie causes of this severe disease, which so often
brings the price ofa horse from a hundre<l guineas down to fiflcvni
has engaged much attcnilun, and been the subject of some dis-
pute. In the giviiU'i' nuiuU-r of lioi^ses tltat are thus attacked,
iIktc i^ beyond all qtii-slion, a natural prcdisjMiiilion to the
disease from weaknea.-t of the gwris. 'llNrre art.-, tlierirfore, two
(hings to consider,— the cause of ihiii prc!dis})Odition, and tlie ex-
citing cause itself, or that which ininiediaiety produces diedi^
order. Tlie disposition to ilie disease ii decidedly herediiarv.
The offspring of pai-ents with diseased eyes become blind tar
more frequently than the produce of animals with healthy eyes;
and to the circumstance of the little care taken in titc choice of
the (lam or the sire may to a ^reat extent be attributed the fre-
quency of the <litease. We find that sheep and oxen, compared
with tlie horse, am ranly attacked with diseased i-yca, and fea
the dog is seldom alieoied. What tlien i* the difli-rcnce in their
Ireiiimem i* 'I'lie latter aix-, in a great measure, left in n slitieof
jiuiure; uliiUt the former animal, ut an early ag<-, becomca
DISEASES OF THE EVE. 261
domesticated, is taken into a warm stable, exposed to the fumes
from the dung and urine, fed on stimulating food, and ot^n
osed with great severity, either in the saddle or harness. Here
we hare several causes : a plethoric state of the system is induced
by stimulating food, by which much blood is sent to the head;
this disposition of the blood is still further increased by exertion,
particularly in harness, from the pressure of the collar, retarding,
in some measure, the return of the blood. The eyes are exposed
to the stimulus of ammoniacal gases, the irritating efiect of which
on our own eyes may be readily experienced ; besides which the
young animal is often kept in a dark stable, whence he is often
suddenly brought into the fiiil glare of the noon-day sun. Can
we wonder that this combination of causes should produce
disease, or that the delicate structure of the organ of vision
should be the first to suffer? We have here both exciting
and predisposing causes. A weakness of the structure of the
eye is often derived from the parents, and the causes above-
mentioned soon bring on disease.
Specific ophthalmia usually makes its appearance between
the fourth and seventh year, but sometimes before, and occasion-
ally in old horses.
Harness horses are certainly more liable to the disease than
those used for the saddle alone ; and horses with a small sunken
eye are more likely to be affected than those with full open eyes.
The disease is also more likely to occur amongst coach and post
horses, where a number are kept together, than amongst gentle-
men's studs.
Treatmtni. — Although different parts of the eye may be
affected, yet the attack being one of inflammation, the treat-
ment should be pretty much the same in all cases, and should
consist, in the first place, of local and general bleeding and
physic, as advised for simple ophthalmia ; the bleeding should
be repeated as required ; warm fomentations should be used at
firet, and should be succeeded by the cold lotion before advised,
or the following, which is more stimulating : —
Sulphate of zinc 1 drachm.
Superacetate of lead ... 4 scruples.
Water 1 pint.
Mix, and, after shaking them together, filter through blotting
paper.
When the inflammation has in some measure subsided, a seton
may be inserted under the eye, and kept in for several weeks.
Some persons object to the seton, on account of the mark it
leaves for some time, and recommend instead one to be placed
ander the jaws.
A few drops of wine of opium may be daily insinuated into
B 3
MB
OHEAfiU OP THE noHSt.
llie eye, or ilio nitrate of silver lotion prcserilHtl in tli« pr<«ecliDg
article
A variety of iiimulatiu linvt* bren ap^^ied to the eye wjtlt
ailvntiiii^i-, nn<l it !■ oftt^i nt-ccMary to vary iliem, aa tliey »»iue-
liim* hifte lliL'ir ellect Ity repetition. A solution of the exiraci
ori>elladonna, as well as that of digitalis, has been found veiy
UHefui; and soroetimeaa Htimulani in the fomi of an ointment
lias been nioit convenient and effectual, sucb as the ointment of
nitrated quicksilver, weakened by ntixiuro witb one half tlie
quantity of lard, and applied to the eyelids onec a day ; or all
ointment composed of one part of sulphate of ztiic and aixtrm
parts of lard.*
It ts of importance that the Imrsc xbould t>e removed to a
cool and clean stable, tvbero there are no einanatiotu from the
excrements.
Mr. PeatI, in hia ob»ervattona mi tlie diseases of the horse,
relates a striking experiment which he made on a horse afircted
with ophllialmio. " I have ordered him." he mvs, " to bo r*r
moved from the stubte, where I ol»cr\ed \k kept both eyes shut,
into the oiH'n air, or to a very oool siiuatioii, Bn<l have walcticd
the eHecta of the clunge. In the courKC of lialf an hour, ] have
commonly fouiMl him begin to open bis cyv» fj^radually, and in
the course of two or three hours, to keep them open boldly, and
for a continuance, even though the situation be was placed in
was not darkened or shady ; for it cannot lie denie<l that strong
liffht is very prejudicial in such cas*^^. Now, to prove tltat the
stimulus of the volaiili- alkali (the vapours of foul litter) wn
more ofTcnsive to the inflametl organ than that of light, I luiTe
placed the animal again in a hot stable, which did not admit
much light ; and, in lite course of a few minutes, have observed
him begin to cloae his eyes gradually, and, after an hour or two,
to fcmp titcm constantly shut. Not satisfied, however, with ttitt.
1 have removed i)k- horse liack again to n cool Kituaiioti, and
Itave observi^l the fume efTi-ct* to be produced as have been
already detailed."
It is frequently tlte cose, lliat as one eye gets )>etter the otliei
is attacked or gets wor^e ; and it is fortunately «<oinetinies the
, fuel that the loss of one preserves the other : thiK, however, ii,
li generally speaking, when the disease ends in caumcL — ED.]
Cataraet,
{Vfv may consider cataract in three varteiic* : — total cataract,
tiariial catnraci, and E[)ecks on the eamule of the crystalline
I'ns, whiclt. bowi'ver, can scarcely be ealltil entaract.
* For ullwT ineJiciil applications Tor the ejt rcfct to itw Materia Mmliclk
DISEASES OF THE EYE.
Total cataract ia an entire opacity of the crystalline lens, so
that it no longer admits rays of light to pass through, and blind-
ness is, of course, the result. It proceeds from inSammation of
the lens, and it usually takes many attacks to produce total
opacity. It may be readily detected by exposing the horse to a
moderate light, such as that at the stable door, and carefully
looking into the interior of the eye.
Sometimes the opacity is quite white, at other times grey, and
occasionally yellow. The lens undergoes some alterations of
form when a&cted with cataract, becoming much more globular
than before.
In the human subject, it is well known that the operation of
couching is practised, which consists either in extracting the
lens, or thrusting it back into the vitreous humour, where it
becomes absorbed. In the horse, however, this operation is
almost impracticable, and is otherwise objectionable, inasmuch
as partial vision would alone be restored, which would probably
make the animal shy, as it is impossible to adapt spectacles to
bim to supply the want of the lens, as is done in the human
suUecL
It often happens that when a cataract has completely formed
in one eye, the other, although it had been before attacked,
becomes strengthened and remains sound. This, indeed, is
the most favourable termination of specific ophthalmia that can
possibly occur.
Partial caiaraet is when there are opaque spots in the lens,
but not sufficient to shut out vision entirely. It is generally the
consequence of active infiammation, which may recur again and
again until the transparency of the lens is entirely gone. In
other cases, the inflammatory attack may not again recur, but
partial vision remain through life. In examining a horse, we
may expect a recurrence of the inflammation if the other parts
of the eye are disorganised : but if the opacity is entirely con-
fined to the lens, and the other parts appear perfectly clear,
and the iris is not particularly irritable wlien exposed to the
light, we may consider it probable that the horse will preserve
what sight he possesses, although, of course, he cannot be con-
sidered as sound.
Sometimes we find slight specks on the crystalline lens
occurring without any previous inflammation, or at least any
that obtained notice. The appearance of these specks may, by
attention, be distinguished from partial cataract. Instead of
being white, yellow, or green, they are of a grey hue, and their
opacity is not so great as in cataract. It is extremely probable
that the opaci^ is confined to the capsule or covering of the
lens; and, in several instances, I have known them disappear
without any remedy having been applied. Other veterinary
s 4
mStASKB OP TUB HORSE.
ftUT^gcon* tiave made llie same observalions ; and it is now a
malcrr of doubl whether llieir exiHtencc is a cause of do-
Munilness. — Ei>.]
ylmauntta.
Or Gutla Serena, is liliudncSA citlier total or jtartia)) from
supposed paralysis of the optic nerve. On it»poctitig tlw
eyes, vrc find no ultcration of structore, but the pupi) no longer
cnlar^gcs and rliminiKlieif from the effects of llgliti and the eyes
Iwvc an uniisiiiilly bright or Rlaxsy appearance. Tiie blind-
ness \* fonu-tiint^ lotali at othvTV partial; oonictimes it rcmniiu
iiiciinibU-, at oibi-i-s it give* way to renHtlial mewurcs. ITie
disetuc ollen conies on suddenly, and the firiit intimalioti received
i> the horse's running a^inM a wall or po»t. Amaurosis is of
several kinds ; It may di-pend on some lesion of the retina, aiid
then it is called idhpathic, or (be miscbiof may be in il>e OfXic
nerve, whicti, un diim-clion, hot been foniKl (o be llw casei and
it is then called syniptoiiuiiic ; or it may l>c lympaUietie, wbpn it
depends on the exi^u-iue of disease in M>it>e independent organ.
Amaurosis has been known to follow stomach staggers, in whtcli
casca it has sometimes proved temporary', at others permanent.
It has also, in many instances, succeeded excessive loss of blood
from ha■mor^lu^;e aAer castration, and sIm from ruptured liwr.
It lias npjteared, too, in a temporary form during gt'Sliiiion, and
also, in many iii»lnncc«, after apoplexy.
Tlic treatment niii»i cun>iat in bleeding from the n«k rather
extensively, and follovting (his by a dose of physic Local
applications to tlie eye will be of little service.
when, however, it proceeds from disease of another pan, oar
attention must be more particularly directed to the recovery of
that part, urhcthcr it be Uie slomucU, the hver, or any other
viscera. A)thoti<;li blct-ding i* generally advisable ut first, it is
not always to be rolluwed, but must be regulated by the general
lieallli- When the above treatment tails, calomel may be given
for some time combined with opium, and in obstinate cases,
strychnia amy be tried. — En.]
JVorm in the F.ye i* a fri-qiteni complaint in India, lu situa-
tion is in the a(|ueoti9 humour, where the worm is found
swimming about, li is generally upwards of an inch in lengUi,
and often occasions impediment to the sight.
Mr. Skravington attributes it to the foulness of ibe water
use<l in titat country, and recommends its removal by puncturiiig
the cornea with a lancet prevented by a little tow from passing
too far. Ttie aqueous humour escapes through the incision, and
OH LAHENEB8 FROM STRAINS. 265
with it the worm. Mr. S. has operated on seven cases suc-
cessfully. He does not throw the aninia], and prefers an incision
opposite the pupil as being less likely to injure the iris. —
Ed.}
CHAP. XLVHI.
ON LAMENESS FROM STRAINS.
Lameness is produced by a variety of causes, so numerous,
and often so obscure, that to discover its seat with accuracy
and promptitude is a mark of professional acumen to which
every young practitioner should aspire. Let him not, how-
ever, be \ea by this consideration to give a hasty opinion in
cases of lameness ; but, on the contrary, let him investigate care-
fully, and reflect deliberately, upon all the circumstances of the
case, and be well assured that he knows the seat and nature of
the lameness before he gives an opinion. Lameness may exist
in a great variety of degrees; the shades, for so they may be
iiame<£ between soundness and positive lameness are so nume-
rous, that to give a name to each would be impossible ; and if
possible, unprofitable. The immediate cause of lameness, in
the majority of cases, is the effort of the animal to relieve the
lame leg by throwing his weight on the sound one, thus causing
that unequal action called lameness. The serious loss and in-
convenience arising from lamenera have excited particular atten-
tion to the subject ; and, though considerable improvement has
been made within a few years in the art of shoeing, as well as in
the treatment of lameness, it is a generally acknowledged fiict,
J believe, that a large proportion of the lameness that occur will
only admit of palliation, and that a considerable number are
absolutely incurable, especially those in the feet
In alluding to the improvements in shoeing, I do not mean
to include that which has been introduced from France) except
as it regards the nailing of those shoes; for as to the French
shoe, and its boasted ajugture, I think it the most absurd imagin-
able. That lameness is much more frequent in this country
than in France is a fact that must be admitted, and ought to be
deeply lamented, because it is an evil that may and ought to be
prevented. On what, then, it may be asked, does this par-
ticular frequency of lameness in this country depend ? The
French say on shoeing ; but It is not really so : on the contrary,
I am of opinion tliat tne English shoeing, speaking generally, is
the best in the world. The frequency of lameness, so loudly
and justly complained of, arises wholly from the immoderate
nnd cruel tntinnpr in nbicli i)i« nninuU ii workedf and the rarly
■gu At wliich he ia bioiiglit into work.
\_StraiHt may occur in muscles, in ligaments, and temlons, and
in (lie incmbraiies l)v which tenclona are joined togollicr, and
they prove a very frequent source of Unu-ncM in the horM*. They
consist in an overstretching of the injured parts, whereby is-
flammntion is prmluci-<l, and it becomt>s hot, tender, and fre-
qiii-ntly swollen ; »oim-timw some of the smaJI b1ood-r««Kl* are
r(iptur<tl, and blood is exiruTOMiled ; itt others a liquid is effused
by the vessels, and thus causn the swrelliiig. The lameness U
produced not so much by the pain tlie animal receives when the
injured part comes to the ground, but rather by the effort to
prevent this pain as much as possible by Ireading li|jhtty on the
injuiTd limb, and with grcnicr force on the other.
Strains of tlte muscles are generally more painful than iliose
of ti*n<lon* and ligaments, front the greater organisation of tlie
part ; but, for the same reason, tlioy are generally more eflec-
tually cured, and in a shorter space of time. In strains of the
ligaments and tendons what we have principally to fear is the
pernMnenl enlargement of the part, by the deposition of new
substance around it; this Ix'ing one of nature's methods in re-
lieving intliinimutimi, but which is getK-rally the source of great
wenknets of the [inrL
In tlie Irtatmatt of strains our principal object must lie to
relieve the inflammation as quickly as po^ibie, and thus to )>re-
vent an enlargement from uking place; witlj this view we
should have recourse to bleeding, locally or generally, warm
fomentations, poultices, and coItT lotions, avoiding stimutanU
till tlie Inflammation ia considerably abated. — Ea.]
ShoMer Strain.
[Some years since the practice of tlte veterinary art was
fined to farriers, wtioie want of knowledge of inorbkl anatomy
left them to guess at the ^at of lanioness in numerous insiancea;
uikI thus in lite greater number of lamenesses in the fore ex-
tri-mity, where no external signs were mnni tested, the shoulder
was invariably considered the seat of disease. Many veterinary
«urgM>ns flnding thiji to be errotu-ous, in numerous instances
Itave flown to tlie opposite extreme, and declared tltat hoisn
were never lame in the shoulder.
Shoulder lamenesses are certainly rare, but they OCCaoionaUy
occtir, and may nenri)' iilwiiys be delected. There are several
(Nirta of tlte lihouUler liable to injury; Kometinn-s the muscles
lltnt connect the shoulder blade aixl the humerus to tlte body
are .strained, and this genemlly ariMtt from the fore higM slipping
or fipremling apart. Occasionally the large triceps muscle, |^ws»-
OH LAHENE8S FROM STRAINS. 267
ing from the back port oftlie scapula to the elbow, ie tlie seat of
injury. — Ed.] More frequently than this the lameness depends
on a strain of the tendon, (or an injury of the synovial cavity, or
bursa mucosa, through which the tendon passes,) which arises
from a protaberance on ttie lower part of the shoulder blade,
and slides over the large grooved process at the head of the
shoulder bone. This large grooved process is covered with a
slippery cartilage, as in other syiiovi^ cavities, to prevent any
friction while the limb is in motion. I have seen shoulder
lameness that appeared to depend upon a rheumatic affection of
this part. The manner of the horse's going, when this part is
the seat of lameness, is very remarkable. In endeavouring to
trot, and sometimes even in walking, the fore leg suddenly gives
way or bends, and it is only by a considerable effort that the
horse can save himself from filing. I had a filly under my
care for this lameness which fell down several times in walking,
Tlie remedies I employed were passing a seton over the point of
the shoulder, and blistering all around it pretty freely. This,
and confining her some weeks in a box, effected a cure.
[I lately met with a case of this description which arose from
severe struggling after being thrown for an operation. The
use of the limb was nearly lost for several days, and the seat of
injui^was evidently in the triceps muscle, just above the elbow,
which became much enlarged. Fomentations, bleeding, and
stimulants effected a recovery.
The n/mptoms of shoulder lameness are generally detected
without much difficulty. The horse is generally lame in the
walk as well as the trot, which is not the case with other lame-
nesses of equal severity. The lameness is particularly notice-
able on going down hill. Unlike other lamenesses the injured
leg is not extended so far as the other, and is often carried
forwards in a circular direction ; there appears, indeed, greater
pain evinced in extending the limb than in resting the weight
of the body upon it. On moving the limb forwards, backwards,
and laterally there is often considerable pain evinced by the
animal ; this, however, depends on the severity of the case.
Horses with thick, upright, and badly formed shoulders are
more liable to these itijurles than others, from the inability of
the parts to respond adequately to exertions demanded, whence
they become over exerted and strained. The injuries are there-
fore produced in galloping over heavy grounds or ruts, or going
bat down hill in harness, or from some accidental false step.
The treatment should consist of bleeding largely from the
plate vein as it is commonly termed, just opposite the elbow-
joint ; three to five quarts may be alntracted with advantage.
Should there be considerable pain, and particularly if the parts
feel hot and tender, the shoulder should be fomented frequently
S6& DIflEASKB OF THS
with wnnn wi»t<>r for a <lny or two. Afti?r vrlitch ll>e Tollowinf;
linimeiit slimild I>e well rulihH in; but if there be no visible
beat the Jinimcnl may be rublied in at fint : —
t
Oiivc oil 2 ounce*.
Spiriu of haruhorn I ounce.
Strong tincture of CHniluirides... 1 ounce.
Mix.
We may pnKluce by (his liniment what decree of effect we
kitsc, by nibbiii); in a greater or IcMer portion. If (be case
le iie*'crc, and iIh* tomponiry Iom of hair no consequence, tlie
greater portion may Iw riilibc-<l on in oih- ilay, and a lesser por-
tion iW- nfxt, which will [>e TouikI to prodiKC considerable
Bwi^lling tind discharffe of serum. Its strongtli may be increased
by tlte addition of the last-mentioned medicine, and dimintjilW
by Uie addition of the first. In slighter cases one fourth of die
liniment may be rubbed in daily until a sufEcient eflecl be ub-
tiiined.
This trcntmont will generally HTect a cure in the course of a
month, more or le!»; but, in nb>^(imile cilko* of longer con-
tinuance, sctons may be inicrie<l over the shouldvn, and al\cT
their remoral the horse may be turned to grass. — Ed.}
Straim oftht Kntt Joint.
[lilts joint, being so strongly compacted and secured by lif^-
hments, is rarely strained. Sometimes, however, thi» is Uic
and most frequently in young )iors(«, and paniculorly in
feolu in training. Tbc sent of the injury it gctK>rally the liga-
monu on tbe side of the knee, and it is frefiiwiitly severe and
obstinate. It is generally produced by slipping on the turf, and
.sometimes attends a broken knee, wliidi it renders considerably
'worse,
The trealnirtit Hhould consist of bleeding from tlte arm, warm
fomentations, cold lotioni*, and when the inflammation is re-
moved, unless the case is slight, a blister should be applied. —
En.]
A Daaipti&n of the Tendoia, ^t. of Ike Lay
Will liere be useful, before tJte injuries of thoeo part« are coii-
tidercd.
'llie JUzar tetidani, or back sinews, are the appendages or
ropea to the flexor muscles, which are situated chiefly on the
hack part of the forc-ann of ilie hoi^se ; when these muscles are
full or pminiiient, lupering downwards in a sinewy form, it indi-
cates great strength of the fore-leg, and the sinews will always
OH LAMENESS FROM STHAINS. 269
be found of correepooiliiig strength. The elbow id such a fore-
leg is generally standing out from the side, and not turned in
and concealed, as it is in fore-arms of a different description, in
the side of the chest or sternum. These sinews are two in
number, and the one is inclosed in the other, so that the latter
forms what is termed a sheath for it. The inner tendon, or, as
it is named, the perforatu, is one of great strength, nearly round,
and extends down to the bottom of the foot, or coffin bone,
into which it is firmly implanted. The other, or sheath, named
pefforabu, is considerably thinner, forming, indeed, a mere
sheet of tendon, especially at those parts where windgalls happen ;
these were formerly supposed to be enlarged bursffi mucoace,
but I have clearly demonstrated that they are nothing more
than the tendinous sheath, distended with synovia.
These, then, are the two tendons, which, taken together, form
the back sinews. Between these two tendons there are, in two
parts, thin membranes, by which they are joined together; these
membranes appear to serve as bridles, allowing the perforans ten-
don tomovealittle waywilhin the perforatus, and then preventing
any further motion. The situation of those membranes is about
midway in the leg, and midway in the pastern. If ihe coffin
joint happen to be extended in a way the animal ^as not pre-
pared for, both these membranes are ruptured. The conse-
quence is, an effusion of blood between the two tendons.
It will be seen from the Plate that there is a strong ligament,
but in appearance like a tendon, coming from the back part of the
knee, passing down about four or five inches, and then incor-
porating with the perforans tendon. This I have named the
great ligament of the back sinew, and its office is of a very im-
Krtant nature, being no less than that of supporting the whole
dy ; that is, supposing the flexor muscles to be fatigued, and
incapable of doing it, and in consequence giving way; for in
that case this great ligament forming one rope with the great
back sinew, and this sinew being firmly insertra into the bottom
of the coffin bone, it must of necessity be the sole support of the
whole weight. This ligament may also be ruptured in strains.
I have seen a case of this kind, and such must have been the
cases that have been described as a rupture of the back sinew,
an accident, as must be obvious from the plate *, that cannot
happen.
One part only remains to be described, and that is the
suspensory ligament. This ligament passes down from behind
the knee close to the shank bone, until it arrives to within
three inches and a half of the superior and posterior part of the
* A. The outside nerve, or that part of it irheTe the branch H communi-
cmtcs, B. The luspensory ligament. C. The great lirament of the back
■inew. D. The two back linews, or flesor tCDdons. EE. The extensorten-
DISEABBS OP THB HOR^
aeaatnoid bonea : at this part it divides into two branches, wliich
diverge from each other, aud embrace llie sceamoid boaet
laterally, so as to keep ihem firmly in tlwir situations ; it then
passes downward, and obliquely forward, and gains tlie extensor
tendon about midway, in Tront of the paslcrn. This ligament it
llic chief siip])ort of the fellock joint, and is sometimes ruptured
in one of its hrfuiche* : tliin, however, is mrely the case ; but it
is much more frequently «iriiine<l Mid enlnr^oti.
TIm.' fetlock joinLi are of grt«t importance lo the horse : tbry
receive, from titeir oblique poniiion with nvpfci to llie leg*, the
weiffht of the whole body, and form (hat important Kprtiif; which
enables him to perform his wonderful exertions with «me to
himself and pleasure to his rider. From ihia circumstaiicv, they
must of course be liable to very severe injuries, and these in-
juries, it is to ))e resetted, are often incurable; that is, con*
sidered as saddle horecs ; but as draught horses, tbej- may be
■iiiEciently restored for slow and moderate labour.
— *
don ftstaned by a IvuiKiit to tlie oiit-
■idc of the knee. F. Ths cannon or
honk bone. O. Tlic ^cnt bone, whidi
Is |>UeMi oil cK-h tide, nuhcr p<Mtc-
riorlv, of ihp ahank-bont^ btginuiiM iu^
-'■* medimitly uulIut tlie knea, anil ntM^
Itig tajHTini; (tuuiiiannl, anJ l«TTn>Rat-
ingnt n^. I. ina Jiort ufbuIU II Tile
bark titicw* and their great *u«|>cn-
iHirv li)innient. ap|Mrcntlj-, Joined to-
_, ceiaer. Thia,iii>imcr, ianotthccuc:
it incorjiuratea OiJy with llw p<TforuH
tdiilon, mnrkcd fig. V. ; nod m iDt>
muifty, that iliey ram one and ibc
tuuiii.- Bubaiance, at the MR tawktd bj
thi: Mtinll U'ltvr 1. The perforMw,
, niDTkin! %. :>., fonnfl a tbenlll (or tbt
(jerroruns, lu alrai<Jy dcMribod in the
, nriiclL-Hlniiiia. 4. The kncojoint. i.
Tli<: rctUick-joinl.
This pbte Aovt also ■ Immdi
of nerve vliich cnMicii mer tlic tMci
sinew, to join the iiorvc on the opixxatc
•ide. It miut be dhuartd, howeiTf.
thai the ocrre !■ reprewBted cromu
la loo peT|)mdicular a direcdon, and
jnining the ffrcat ncrra on the ouutde
of the leg ■ tittle too blub. Tlie dij-
tunce between the port on tbc inude
nerve, wlicrr ilie brwach ia firea off,
nnd the pari oa the ain«a9e Bent,
irhcre it MRiinunicaies, is nboat two
inche«, or within two incbe* and a half,
fiir it vnriM a liille tn tbii retpcci. The
I itiii), wiUmiii iliiH eii|>lniiation, lend tbe tcBiter into an
OH LAMEKESB FROM 8TBAINS. 271
Strain of the Flexor Tendons, or Back Sinews.
[This injury is of frequent occurrence, and being often neg-
lected in its early stages, an enlargement of the tendons takes
place, which greatly depreciates the value of the animal. This
being the case, the injury whether trivial or severe, should never
be thought lightly of, but always submitted to treatment.
The Sympbmu are in a severe case, lameness and heat, and
swelling of the affected part ; on pressing the sinews consider-
able pain is evinced. Sometimes the fetlock almost touches
the ground from relaxation of the sinews or their connections.
Tbe enlargement in some cases is so considerable, that the
unews cannot be discerned ; this oflen arises ironi eBusion of
blood in the sheath, but the tendons, themselves, are likewise
ioBamed.
The treatment in a severe case should consist of copious
bleeding from the arm, which may be repeated the second op
third day if necessary ; a pattai shoe should be placed on the foot
of the affected 1^, so as to put the sinews ui a state of rest ; and
tbe limb should oe placed in a bucket of warm water, and fre-
quently fomented for a long time together. If this cannot be
conveniently done, a linseea meal poultice should be placed on
the 1^ and wetted several times in the day with warm water.
On the second or fourth day the following lotion may be sub-
stituted for tbe fomentation, a linen bandage being applied,
and freqaenlly saturated with the lotion : — >
Muriate of ammonia.. 1 ounce.
Fyroligneous acid........ S ounces.
Spirits of wine 2 ounces.
Camphorated spirit. 2 drachms.
Cold water 1^ pint —
Mix.
When the part is totally free from inflammation, if a swelling
remains, it should be either blistered or fired, the latter is the
most effectual, and should be preferred if the blemish is not
objected to. — En.j
Strmmofthe Fetlock Joint.
This injury may be confined to the joint itself when there is
lameness and heat but not much swelling, but its seat generally
it the ligaments surrounding the joint.
The Symptoms are similar to those be&ire mentioned in strains
of the sinews, and the treatment also should be very similar. A
patten shoe, however, is not so imperatively called for, and if
used should not be continued so long.
S7S
19 OP THE BORSB.
' Brtaiiny Dottn. ^
This accttlciu often occurs in racing, and somrtimct in liunt*
ing, btu very niMv ujion ilic road. A strain in ibc b«k ainews
is >oiiioiiin<?« cMImI liy litis name *; but when n horse breaka
ulovm, the fetlock joint, wlicn hv rests on titat log, ni'nrljr bf«rt
'upon tlie grotind. Iliis accident ii Kuppovrd to defwiid on «
rupture of the j^rcat KUBpcnsory ligiuneiit of the leg ; but wme-
< times it is occuionvd by a rupture of tliv ligaraents of ilw
Lpastern. If wc examine i)m; tendons and ligament on the back
[part of itiv »hunl(, n-e iitiall find iliatthe great flexor, or perforaiu
' tendon, i» «u[p)x>rit-d by a strong ligamentt nearly as large M
itself, wliieli pi-oeeeds from the back part of iIm? knee, or from
tlic upper and [>o«ierior [tart of the great metacarpal or cannon
bonr. About three or four inches down it joins tlvc prtforani
tendon, and becomes intimately mixed witb it. If Una part Ja
examined it will cicarlv appear lluit a rupture of tlio auspcaaoTy
ligament of the lotlocit jomt would not bring the hor»e down
upon his foiloek joint unlc«s this sutpcniory ligament of the
pcrforanit tL*ndon were to give way alao. I have met with two
cacei of a rupture of th« ligamenta, bj which the two pastern
bone* are held logeilior. It happened to two nerved norsfs,
tliat were driven in the subscription coach from Bath to Exeter,
Botli these horses came down upon the fedock joint, and were
tlierclbrc shot. A perpendicular section was made of the foot
and pastern, when this dislocation of the pastern bones was
shown very conspicuously. The suspensory ligament of the
paslern joint embraces the two Bcesmoidj laterally, and when
ruptured it is probable that only one of its branclivs a broken,
which is followed by 8 dislocation of one or both avumoids:
this accident also I have n-cn.
This breaking down in most probably owing to a nipture
or Ktraiu of tlie ligaments pusHing from tlie sesamoid bones to
the paaierns, which, on being divided, greatly increases the ob-
liquity of th« joint. In lh« treatment of such cases the patten
shoe most be early applied, and the same means resorted to a«
for other strains.
The Sutp«tU0iy iJtiainenU which pass down the leg between
tl)C back sinews and the bone, are often the seat of inflammation,
I enlargement, and lameness. The nature of this affection is U-M
' severe, though often more obstinate, than tluit of the tendons.
The Trtatmmt muKt be »iuiilur to that before recommended ;
* Till* in the CMC in raring *Ubl4^» ; it is, however, only *ttj aertrt stniint
llint nro thus <»llc>l, that U, when ihc rnlnrKcmciit is 113 gnta ihsl the tiucnt
prctcnl n coiMidcintik currc inntoul of a stmight line— El>,
OK LAMENESS FROH STRAINS. 273
but, there being less inflammation, firing or blistering should be
earlier resorted to. — Ed.]
Are soft puffy swellings of a similar nature to bog spavins and
thoroush-pins. They are found both in the fore and hind legs
at the fetlock joint. There are two situations in which they may
appear; one on each side, and at an equal distance from the
front and back of the fetlock joint ; the other on each side of the
flexor tendons. The former communicate with the fetlock joint
itself; the latter, which are larger and more frequent than the
others, with the sheath of the flexor tendons. Thus connected,
there must he considerable danger in opening them. Windgalla
are, therefore, neither more nor less than a distension of the
synovial bags with synovia, and sometimes an extension of these
bags by a rupture of their connections. The cavities which are
the seat of windgalls are shown in the frontispiece plate, — one
just behind the lower part of the cannon, the other behind the
tendons. Sometimes we find these enlargements at the front of
the fetlock joint, or rather on each side of the extensor tendon.
In this case they do not conmiunicate with the joint, but are
merely the distension of the mucous capsule just about the joint.
They are also found above the knee, and in various other parts
of the body.
Blistering these windgalls will generally cause their disappear-
ance for a time; but they are sure to return wiih work. Punc-
turing them with a needle in various places, so as to cause an
adhesion of the side of their internal surfaces has been suggested,
and is well worth a trial. — Ed.]
Strain of ike Coffin Joint.
[[Under this term, most obscure lamenesses of the fore ex-
tremity used to be classed by those who were of opinion that the
shoulders were not the seat of injury. Later research, however,
has discovered that, in nine cases out of ten, the seat of these
obscure lamenesses is not in the coffin, but in the navicular joint
somewhat posterior to it. The cofBn joint is so firmly secured
within the hoo^ and is so limited in its movements, that its
ligaments are rarely striuned. This, however, is occasionally
the case, and may be detected by heat round the coronet, in ad-
dition to the lameness.
The treatment must consist in bleeding from the foot and
poultices, and followed by blistering the coronet. — En.]
274
DISEASES or TItK HOBSC
Slram or Injury of the Loiiu,
This injtirr is not tiiirrffiiititt, and occurs chirHv lo draugfil
liorscs, efifH-cialiy tliOM' in (h<- n.liiit'u wlirn ihry are Kc^iiif;; back
lieavy burdens iti R(*><ig down hill. In doing this they often
slip, ami not only »trnin lli<- niincles of tlve loins, but may injure
tl>c spinal marrow aUo. Whrn the xpinal marrow is injurMt a
paralysis or l\tv bind c*xtrrmiti<-M, either total or partial, lakes
Stacc, and the hnrw a »el<Iom of mti«'h uw aOerwards. This
isnse is noliwii under the h*-ad of \tt\Uy. When ihff musclea
of ihf loins are injured, wf pan pe«erally suecri-d in curing by
the rollonriiiff treatment : — Co])ious blerding, {Mirfoct rest, 6U»-
pcnsion or *linf[ing, if the lamenets is such a* to rrquirt it, and
covcrin;; iIm' loini with a frosh Steep's skin, btistcrinfr, or rub-
bing s»tii<' xironf^ embrocaiion upon them. After ihi* tmtmem
hns hivii cotitiiitiotl about n wevk, the horae should ht; put into
a lo<>w> box, wlit^n.' \\e can movi? himself about freely, and iu a
w<vk after litis he may, if rp<{uiriM), have a ckaiye put upon his
back, and be turned to grass.
Strain or Injury of the Hip Joint, or RoiutJ Hone,
Thi
or
This accident is produced by the hind fe^it slipping sideways.
by blows on ihe part, as in falls on the side. In ih<> first cn^,
(hot is, in slipping sideways, the round liganit-nt of the hip joint
is injured ur torn. In falling on the pari, the injury is ol a dii-
fercnt nature : the cup of the joint or liead of tlir hone may be
Ii\iured. Hut a more common efTect is a gradual cnlargemeat
of the grt.li process of the head of llic femui-, by which ih*
muscle named gluteus magnus (of the horse, hut iMirvus of ih(
human hodv] which pa^es over it, is thruwii oil a little, and
thciftuic- whfii ill action, it forces the head of the ll-innr into thr
acetabulum, in sucli a manner a^ to render motion poinful. Tliit
tuippensi in some ca^'s, in such a degree as to produce inflam-
ination, and vorv serious lameness. Lamenesa in the hip joial
inav be easily di^tinguislicd by the horse inclining his hind parts
a little on one side, so as to mnko one hip appear while lie k
going a little higher than the other; but after be hiu travelled
some miles, he becomea a litlte tired of bearing so much on the
sound side, and puts up with the pain of bearing on llic latne
aide, so that Ih- steps or goes equally, ami llie lameness is no
longer nbeprved, until he itas stojipetl a short time, or rested Iti
llie stable; and then, when taken from the stable, hv is as bmt
or lamer than before. Rest alone, at tlic comitin icemen t of the
lameness, will often effect a cui'e: after this [leriotl. Aritig (■■'
blistering are also neces-'iai'y. This lumeiieu i« cnaily aisiio*
DISLOCATION OF THE PATELLA. 275
gaished from lameness of the hock, or fetlock joint, by the sudden
catching up of the hind leg in the two latter.
Strain or Irgtiry of the StiJU.
Lameness in the stifle is known by the difficulty the horse
feels in putting forward the hind leg; also by swelling and ten-
derness of the parL It is generally produced by external vio-
lence, though it may be caused by a strain.
The treatment should consist of bleeding, either generally or
from the thigh; warm fomentations to the part, followed by
cold lotions ; and if the lameness continues the joint should be
btbtered, orsetons inserted over it.
Dislocation ofthePateUa.
lliere is another kind of lameness in the stifle, which is some-
times only of a temporary nature, and has more the appearance
of spasm or cramp of the muscles ; but is, in fact, a dislocation of
the patella. It takes place wlien a horse is suddenly moved in
the stall, or when first taken out, or when first moved after
having been ridden and then standing still a short time. Ilie
attack sometimes lasU only a minute or two, but is often re-
curring. It occurs chiefly in colta, or young horses. When a
horse is attacked with this cramp, as it appears to be, he con-
tinues with the hind leg stretched out, stiff, and apparently in
great pain ; he then suddenly draws it up with a jerk, and the
knee pan, or patella, can sometimes be heard to go into its place
again.
[The injury here spoken of, and so frequently mistaken for
cramp, is neither more nor less than a dislocation of the patella
or knee pan, whereby the motion of the joint is altogether pre-
vented, and the leg becomes stiff and immoveable. Sometimes,
from the frequent recurrence of this affection, and its often spon-
taneous cure, the articulating surface of the patella becomes
flattened, and the animal is rendered almost useless, being con*
tinudly subject to the dislocation.
In other cases, the bane cannot be restored to its proper situ-
ation without assistance, which should be thus rendered. The
operator should place himself behind the animal, and putting
one arm between the thighs, clasp his hands in front of the stifle.
The leg now being drawn forwards by an assistant, the patella
should, at the same time, be forced in by the operator.
A blister or charge should be placed over the part to prevent
or retard its motion, and the animal kept in a state of rest for
some days. In cases of frequent recurrence, the part may be
fired, with a view of bracing the skin. — Ed.}
T 2
CHAP. XLIX.
KXOSl'OSIS.
SjiUh/s.
"Splints arc so froaut-iit, iliai few hor»s become old wuliouc
them ; aiiil, in the majority of cases, tliej- produce neither lane-
ness nor iitcoiivpnicncc ; in otlier cases, Iiowever, tliey ai* at-
tended with miieli jiain and severe and traubkiioiiie lamt-nm.
We sonietiincs find large splints not oiil^ unaccompaiiit^ with
lamenesi, but whirh nrvrr have been so attended ; whilst otliers,
one fourth their siu-, will often produce severe lanieness. This
used to be explained, or ratlter emlravoured to be explained, by
saying tlwt the latter interfered with the tinew, ami (he other
di<l not. 'Ilie enlargemeiit cannot interiere widi llw flexor
(inew*, and it i* doubtful wlHther its proximity to the sitspeiiHiry
li|rament iii ever n source- of Inmenes*. 'lite circunintanoc of
flplints produciiijT Iflincnesn in some nitr* and not in otiiers can
be much better ac4-uiinied for by suppuning tliai wl«>rc it pro-
duces no inconvenieitoe the oasific dcpotit is to gndua) that the
perimtpum, or membrane covering the bone, enn neeoinmodate
itself to its incroM^ t'txe; whilst in other caitr^ the eitlurg«-ineiit
talct^ place io rapidly, iliai the p«-riotitcuni heeoiiu-* pntnfulty
strclcii(.-d, and iliu» produces lamene!<s, A splint lumally occun
about three or four inche* below the kivoe, but notnetimes w
find it much lower down, and occasionally higher up. In llwiie
latter instBiicet the cs%se is much worse, as it ii likely to interfere
with the itclioii of the kniH', and in this utuation is oHen com-
pUcalrd with inflammation of tlH* ligantents of the knee. 'ITie _
proxiinnte c^nur of splint may be cuiii>idered as a strain of flM
iigameiitoiis xtibstance which coniH-cia the small with the ll^ff
ineiaearpal boiiL's, mid which may be produced by anything tnai
throws an undue proportion of weight upon tliese bunes. It ii
found far more fro(]uenily on the inside titan the outside, whkb
is considered to be owing to the former being niorc under tlw
centre of gravity, and also to the circumstance that the innff
splint hone receives the whole weight of the email bono of il*
knee, the traj>eioid; whilst, on the outside, the unciform hoot
rests partly on the large, aitd thus the latter prevents tlic fomier
from being pressed from above beyond a certain degret*. For
the same reaaon, horse* that turn their toes out are most liablr
lo splints.
'lyfatmmt. — " Professor Coleman used to say, * A sftlint oiw
U a splint always :' the two bones being once united bv ocaific
;natler, this connection, whatever we may do or apply, will nefcr
EXOSTOSIS.
be altered. It used to ht the custom to remove llie splint with n
hammer and chisel, but (lie production of n Im^e blemish from
the desiruclion of skin was the consequence of ibis barbarotix
metltod. Another practice, as ancient and bnrljaroua as the
former, was the application of corrosive subliiikate, or other
strong caustic, so as to occasion a sloug)); in this case, too, the
pcmedy was as bad as the disease, — the horse was disfigured for
life. Belier and more recent treatment tlian this was either
firing or blistering. The objection to the former, however, was
tite marks it produced; and to the latter, in common with the
former, tiiat though (ho lameness was removcti, it very frctjucntly
rcluriKHl with tlic resumption of labour.
"The more nioctem, successful, ami scientiftc treatment of
splint* coruisU in the operation of pcriosttutoniy, or division of
tlie peristeum, which covers the Irane.
" Profeaaor Sewdl has introduced, within (liete few yvtn, aii
excellent mode of performing (he operuiinti. The horse i* caxT,
(he leg properly straightened und M-cun-d, and then a small
opening is made just below tlw spliut, sullicieni to inlrmluce a
long, narrow, convex, probe-pointed knife, the edge of which is
on the convex side ; the knife is Uien passed up under the skin,
.^r^.
Dlr
nil Lnifu is hlunt on th; pitmnily vt at M pin under tlio iIeIii si a ptvlic.
and by drawing it backwards and forwards on the splint, pressing
firmly at the same lime, llic periosteum is completely divjdeu.
A small nprning is then uiaiU- tbrDiigb the >kin above the splint,
and n nnnow ittton pnx»(.-[I fioui one orifice to the other, afier
rhich a bondage is placed »n Ukc leg, and the Iwrse released.
The scion should be moved and dressed daily with digestive
jintment, and at the expiration of a week removed, and the
rvround permitted to heal. 1 have found the operation succucd
'whenever 1 have adopted it.
In ilie very numerous cases that occur of splints being mi-
Uiended with lameness, it is better 'to let well alone;' but
when the lamcnesa is slight, and the lu>rse cannot be spared
from work more than a few days, it is well to apply a mild
blistering application, such as tlic tincture of caniharidiw, about
B tea-spoonful of which will be sufficient for one application,
■r ;i
I
flTB
DISEASES OF TOE llUnse.
wliicti may be rppeated according to the action it produces and
tlie benefit it occasions.
" Bony tumours somctimos fonn in varioti; perts of ilie cannon
l>one, but, (bough often large und consrauonily offensive to the
eye, ihey rarely produce Un>encss. They arc more frequent
with hunters than with otta-r horw», and are often, but iMM
aJwa^'fi produced by h\ovt in leaping. The use of the iodine
ointment forms the best Irciilment. Still more frc<iiicntly "ir
find ossific dcposiliouK round tin- fi'tlnck joint: ibe most usuiil
fiilualion 'i* by the »ldi; of ilie tieranioid bom's. Sonictim*-* wc
find these cnfargeiiuiit* on llie niiterior p«rt of llw joint, or on
the lateral iwrtionn anterior to the tuKpenwry lignnient. Th«c
sw-ellin^ frequently exist without injury, but they are »0Rie-
tiin^ the cnuftc of severe lameness.
'* Tyeatmenf. — When these eiilarsementi are produced by
utrains of tlie lijijpments, they are much more serious than when
tbey come on gradually wiihout any ostensible cause. In live
former case, it may be prudent to blister or fire ibe leg ; iu the
latter, we should recommend the coniinui-d application of ibe
iodine oininient.
Jtittffhonf.
" Ringbone is n deposition of ossific matter on the pastfTll
bones, which, from frequently exiendin;; round tbem, derives itt
common appellation. It exists in various ilcgre^ eomeiimn
being very slight, nnd in odicrs surrounding the bones, niid
ftltogcthcr obscuring ihi-ir reni form. Kingbonrs arUe either
from concussion of tbt- joint or a .itr»in of its iigiimenis; llx-y
may either be rapidly produviil by a severe strain, or may, ai
they iixually do, e»me on ilowly. Ic often )Kip()ens tbiit u liorse
is Inine, and it is aoniewiial difficult to discover tlie seat of liii
lameness; but, after a while, a ringbone commonly fbrms.
Horses with short upright joints arc disposed to this disease
from the concu^ion to which ibey are liable, and more par-
ticularly if their action is high : and 1 have also found rhnt
hoi-ses vriih particularly small It-et are likewise, from the same
reason, more exjwscd to these ossifKaiions than others witli
larger feet. Tlie bin<t legs arc subject to ringbones as well as
tlie fore, but not so fri'tiuently ; an<l when they apiwar beliind,
titey are usually found on 'the side of ibi> jtcuitern bone*, ami
■rise generally Imm some Mrain of the ligaments.
"TWff/'ni'nf.— tihonkl tlim- be any inflammatory appearmnont
as there griierally are, we should take care to remove tbcm
befon- we Itare recourse to stimulating reniirdies. I''nr ilii» end,
we should employ topical b]ee<ling fi'om die toe or the corondi
EXOSTOSIS. 279
and, after that, evaporating applications to the part, with the
jmraersion of the limb frequently in a bucket of cold water.
When perfectly cool, but not before, we may resort to counier
irritation. If the horse is blistered, the operation should be
repeated two or three times, or the iodine and mercurial oint-
ment may be substituted. If firing be employed, it is necessary
to 6re deepl}', and we may blister a few weeks afterwards.
Turning out to grass is desirable, as it insures a long rest j or,
what is still better, after the horse has rested for one month,
sending him to plough for several more on soft ground, sup-
posing, of course, that he is adapted for such labour.
" Professor Sewell recommends the operation of periosteotomy
for cases of ringbones as well as for splints.
" Ossification of Ike lateral cartilagex is commonly known by
the term *' &lse ringbones." It is produced by concussion, and,
consequently, heavy horses, with high action, are more liable to
it than others, and more particularly if they are employed on the
London pavement. It generally comes on slowly, and originates
in different parts of the cartilage in different horses; sometimes
commencing at the anterior part of the cartilage, bitt more
frequently at the posterior and inferior part. A great portion
of the heavy dray horses in London have ossified cartilages; and
in the country nothing is more common than for cart horses
with ossified cartilages to work on the road, and particularly at
plough, entirely free from lameness. The lateral cartilages,
when ossified, are considerably larger than before: they con-
sequently press on the skin, and the' surrounding parts, and in
this way assist in producing lameness and inconvenience.
" Treatment, — We are rarely called upon to treat the disease,
unless it is attended with lameness, which may either be pro-
duced by inflammation going on in the part, or from the greater
jar the foot receives from the loss of an important spring. If
the former be the case, our object most be to remove the in-
flammatory dispositioi], and to stay the further deposition of
bone. Should there be any appearance of heat externally, we
may first bleed from the coronet, and afterwards proceed to
counter-irritation, blistering the part several times.
" If the ossification is fully formed, and there are no signs of
active inflammation going on, we can then do little more than
endeavour to diminish the jar of the foot. It is the practice in
these cases to fire the coronet, but no benefit can be eflected
by the operation; it is both empirical and unmeaning. We
shall) however, find much benefit from the use of leather soles,
taking care that the part applied to the heels is tlie thickest.
In conjunction with leather, bar shoes resting lightly on the
T 4
niBRABEB OF THE nORSE.
frofEK will alTord still greater relief. If 1e«llier soles are no(
UM-d, * piece ol' leather correspond inj;; to the shoe may be riveted
to biilh lieels, which plan will coimiderably obviate cuncua&ion.
By thfs*' nieaaiircs in the country we caii generally relieve the
liotK* sufBciciitly to make him useful; but in London it is often
n«cesnry to destroy the sensation of the foot by the opcratiou
of neurotomy, the merits and demt-rila of which will be sepa-
rately discufised." — SpooHer an tkr Foot, §V.
CHAP. I„
STRUCTURE AND DISKASlltl OF TUC HOCK JOINT.
This is a most importnnt joint, and one that is more exercised
than any other joint in the body : lluit is (be surface of motion
between its two larjii- boiio« ia miicli f^atcr than Itciwecn any
oilier bones of iht body. Uuwwn of tin- ItocJt joint have liad
distinct names applied to them, by which thvy are liimiliarly
Known, and il>erefore I will explain them under tlicM.- tvnn*,
which are. Bone Spavin, B<^ Spavin, Thorouf^h Fin, and Curb-
But previous to an explanation of in diaca-ie*, n coiKise de-
scription of the joint may be useful. 'Itie hock ia camjiosed of
six bones, the pnneipal of which are, the oa catcis and tlie astra-
oaluB. 'I'lie other I'uur bones are considerably smaller, and have
been distinguished by names which need not liere be itienlioned,
and are placed in two rows between the astragalus and the
cannon, 'J'he astragalus is a very curious bone, and is p)ace*l
obli(|Uely in the shape of a pulley. It is articulated with llw
leg bone, or tibia, with the small bones below, and rather poaM-
rioi'ly with the os ralcis; and such is the nature of these arli-
culations, that » mod cxtensivv motion is afforded to ihr »hunk.
[The motion of the hock is eiitin-ly confined to tlio up))cr urt^
culatton, — namely, tbiil bvlwern tlic astragalus and tftc libia;
the former bone prftcnit two i-oun<l condyles, as th«y are termed,
with a deep coiinivity between thcni and the lower |>art of the
tibia in the couniii'iwrt of this, having two concuviijes and an
cminetice in the middle. These hones, thus adapted, move on
each other in the manner of a hinge, having no lateral motion
btit a very extensive one in a forward direction. 'I1ie hock
joint is the most extensive nnionlation in tlie whole body, and it
is protected by a capsular ligament of con-esponding extent.
This ligament is favtcnvd to ihe lower end of the. tibia above,
and to the upper row of small bones below, and to the astragalus
on each side behind the condyles. At the upper and back pari
of this articulation tiicre is a moveable cartilage, whose front
^
aTRVCTURE AND DISEASES OF THE ROCK JOINT. 2dl
surface forms part of the hock joint, and hind suifoce the front
of the joint capsule, throu{(h which the flexor perforan* t<-tidon
poiisea on ihe inside of the os calcis. Tliia cartilage, which foriiiA,
■s it were, a part of the cipsnlar liKament itself, corresponds to
the lower posterior pari of ilie tibia, and prevents concti^ion
between the tibia and oa nilcis when tlie leg is suddenly and
violently straighlencd as in leapin]:;.
The capsular li^mcnt, just itiKcnor to this cartilage, on both
sides, is the scat of ihorouiili pin, uhiUl i1k> ntilcrior, lower, and
internal part of the ciip»ii1ur ii;;iimcnl i* the scat of bog spavin.
T]ius the buck joint, wlwn (he homv i* ut rrst, may bo con-
sidered to comtist of two cavities, one in front and the other
behind tlie lower <-iid of the tibin, for the urliculating turfnco of
the Mtrtf^lus i» double the extent of thnt of the tibiiu In rhc
movement of llie joint, aa one cuvlly increuiteit the other dimi-
niiltes; bo that when bog Hpnvin iiiul ilioiougli-pin both exixt in
tlie name lK>ck, they appear nli(-rontely to increme and diminish
will) the motion of the Joint. The capsular ligament is protec«>d
in front by the extensor tendons and th<^ annular ligament.
Tlw perforana tendon, we have seen, enters a sheath at tlie
upper part of the hock on the inner side of tW os calcis, an<l
continues in the slieaih to ilie lower and posterior part of the
hock. This sheath is sometimes the seat of inflammation and
lameness. The perforatna tendon expands at the point of the
bock, where, being firmlv bound at the sides, it forms a joint
capsule with the point of the hock. This rapsule is noc the aeat
of capped hocks, as is frecjiicnlly supposed ; lor cnppttl liock is a
collection of serous fluid nt the Ixi'k and outside tlie tendon, and
between It and the stronj? incmbnviioiis substance undeiiicHth
llie skin. The pcrfor.itn* tendon below tlie cnpnule becomes
narrower an^l [kism-* behind a Mrong ligament, which extend)
from the om <'idciH to the nietiic»r|>id boiiei. A stmtn of this
ligament constitutes a curii, altltough the flexor tendons are
often involved in the mischief. — Eo.J
Strain of the Ligammlt, tfc.
Any of the ligaments and leiidunt about tlie hock joint arc
liable 10 be strained; and, if taken early, ll»e horse rested, and
the case irrated on the pviiiciplea l)efore laid down, we »hall
generally ducceetl in eflecling u perfect cure. When iuflamnm-
lion can be detecte<l at the hock, bleeding, from the thigh or
aaphena vein, will effect great relief.
By violent and long-con tinned exertion of the Iiock joint, so
f;reat is the consumption of synovia, in consequence of its pocu-
iarly extensive motion, that the synovial membrane becomes, at
length, incapable of supplying any more, and in titis exhausted
28-2
DISEASES OF TBE ROItSE.
•tale is iiaeir the subject of friction. The joinl ibcn bcconivs
inflamed Bnd ulcerated, and the InmcneEs is olWn incitreblv.
Bane Spavin.
[SpUTin \» a depocition of bony tub^lftiKC on the intide of the
hock. It it f;<tH>rully prodiKcd by n stnlti of i)h* ligaim-nis
which confine the uniall boiM>« of the hock. I'ltv lameneu often
{trccedes tlie opavtn, und Kimetinie* gets betterafter its formation.
The i*(reci of sgwvin i» to join the small boiies of the liock to-
fifether, and thu« to destroy the spring whidi the existence of
three juiniii bi-low the astingaiua a cajuMe of affording. When
the tiiavin U situated low it only destroys the use of on« joinif
which is ol\en compensated for by those abore. The higher the
spavin ia situated itie worse it is, and sometimes tt is so extensive
as to anchvloee all the bones of the hock, leaving only the iKtion
of the tibia and asliagalus. The lameness from spavin or dis-
ease of tilt' hork is peculiar, — the hone dravrs up hi* lej with
reiiiiirknbie ci^'leriiy, more so than in any otlwr lan)viu^».
The ciHiw* of spavin arc anythinij tlwl dinlrcwic* the liga-
nienis of lite joinix, — such as hnnling or severe i-xertion, par*
licularly wiilt yotmg horaex, and the precticc voinetimes adopted
of ntaking ilic outer heel of the khoe niticli hij;(>er Uuti the
inner.
The treatmmt ge«i"rnlly adnpled i» firinj:; the part deeply, or
a seion may be in.'ii,M-ic<l undt-r the »kii), immediately over the
enlar^'meiit, and eontinuerl for a month. — Ko.] Some farrier*
employ ctiu.itic, and even anenic, which they introduce by fint
tnakinjT an o[)ening, by IxH-inf^ wtih a hot iron, or otherwivo, into
thetMiiy nwfliinfr, and inioa^niail hole thus made tliey introduce
snnK- of their cauiiiic. I was once consulted in a case of this
kind, in which the farrier hiid employed arsenic. Il produced
a dangerous sloughing, and the hor&e was nearly destroyed
by it.
[It most Ik- confessed that whatever treatment vrc may employ
for spavins, the tnajarity of cases will be unsuccessful, — the
lumeneic* will «till remain, lliis is owin;; lo the disease affecting
the dee[i-ii(-Htocl parts of the joint, and the synovial nicnibrani-
iiM-lf. In xonif! triuef we find, on dissection, tlmt ilie $mall bonct
of" the hwk aie in a carious stutc, and the synovial niembranc
and cavtitage ulcerated. In other instances we fntd tlie diseasr
existing between the tibia and astragalus; the prominence or
ri<lge on the former bone i* rough an<i de|»-ived of cartilage, ai>d
the synovial membrane around it in a state of inflammation. A
similar appearance is presented by the corrt-^fwnding portion of
the astragalus, tlwiigh not to the same extent. A sort of notdi
is oflei] perceived on the ridge of the libiu, without any attend-
GTRUCl'URE AND DISEASES OF THE HOCK JOINT. 2R3
ing lameness ; the joint, however, in these cases, is entirely free
from inflammation, and the notch, though denuded of cartilage,
is generaUv covered by a thin synovial membrane.
These diseased appearances of both the upper and lower arti-
culations of the hock, appearing, as they often do, without any
enlargement or external inflammation, go far to account for the
existence of so many cases of obscure lameness of the hind
extremity.
The only treatment for theee incurable cases is the excision
of the nerve a few inches above the hock, on the inside only :
it has been performed successfully several times by Professor
Spooner, and also by Mr. Stanley. — Ed.]
Bog Spavin,
Bog spavin is a disease very common among young horses,
and occurs chiefly at the time of breaking : it is, of course, more
likely to happen when they are broke at too early an age. The
hock, it has been before observed, is an important joint, and
designed for very extensive motion ; but the motion which lakes
place in a state of nature in this joint, or during reasonable
labour of any kind, is very different from that which is pro-
duced in throwing the animal upon his haunches, as it is called,
in pulling him up from a gallop suddenly with a powerful bit,
or in taking high or wide leaps. These violent motions of this
joint in particular are, it may well be supposed, likely to pro-
duce this disorder. Bog spavin, then, is a distension of the
capsular ligament, by an accumulation of synovia, formed in
consequence of the violent exertions 1 have just described, and
appearing in a swelling on the inside, towards the bend of the
hock.
[When bog spavins appear suddenly, they are usually accom-
panied by stiffness, and even lameness, and then treatment should
be had recourse to ; but, generally, they come on gradually, and
areproductivp of no injury or inconvenience.
There has been much difference of opinion on the subject of
these bursal enlargements. I'he following appears to the editor
to be their true nature. The seat of bog spavin is the upper
articulation between the tibia and astragalus, and it appears in
that part of the joint where there is nothing but the capsular
ligament and the skin to protect the joint. The capsular liga-
ment is bound down by membrane to the neighbouring parts.
In the action of the jomt, when there is an abundant supply of
synovia, this fluid is pressed with some degree of force against
the capsular ligament, and ruptures some of the fibres of the
membrane which confines it. The consequence of this is an
actual enlargement of the cavity of the joint itself; it is capable
of [■ontaiiiing more ttian it did l>erore; and it is soon supplied
with Hii udditional quantity of synovia, wliichi pressing against
the cupntiliir ligamciii, distends it, as vre may perceive in bcw
tpaviuK. As ihis usually takes place in a gradual manner, it
•fldotn occasions lameness, or, il ii doe«, it b of a temporarjF
nature. 'I'lie enlargemeni, however, continues 8s long as tlit-ro
is sufficient synovia to distend ihe capsule; if wc blister the rarl
and keep the horse on poor diet) it disappears for a time, liiere
Ijeing less synovia secreUKl : it reiurns, liowcver, with work and
goodliving. In old hor»es, it ofien disappears altogether, froin
the diminution of synovia gc«rpl<.-d.
This being the iinliirc of (bis disease, the plan of opening il
to lei out the coTilainec! fluid 15 vorj- JnjudiciunK, for wc run the
risk of creating dirudftd infiiunination by oiK'niiig *o important
A cavity. If it has bet-n souielime* done wiih impunity, it »
U'cimsc the opening has betin so snuill lu to close up very won,
and hcfore much irritation liaa been produced. A cure must uot
be i'\)i(^ied uidei* we con cau^ adlK-vion lu take place betweeu
tliosf part* that tutve given way ; and this can only be done, if
ai .^11, in the early stages, either by pressure on the port or by
perfect rest, which can l)e8t be effected by the application of a
blister.
Blood spavin is a fanciful disease, and therefore requires no
further notice. — Ed.]
iTTiorotiffh-Pina
Are limilar in ihcir nature to Irag spavins. IIhtc arc l«o
aituntiuns in which ihey uro foinid ; 0110 nillicr above tlic jwint
of the hock, and the other bdow ii. In each cmv, they appear
both outside and inside ; and their conteiiu may be prt^«<l
from out- i» die other, from whieh circumstance they dcrtrc
tlieir name. The upper ihorough-pin apiwars to be the cidai^e-
ment of the capsular bag in which uiio tendon moves upon an-
other— ihe tendo AdiillcM and tlie iwrforatus; and the lower
one a distension of the capsular ligament of the hock joint itself,
at its npper and back part, and behind the tibia. Tliorouglt-
pinK and bog spavins often exist together, and then the fluid can
be pressed from one to the other, though not readily.
lliorough-nins arc moi* rarely tlic cause of lameness than
even bog spavms. I have, however, known a troublesome and
ub*iiii<ile lameness produced from the upper ihorough-pin, or
perhaps tathcr from some strain of the tendon i« hich attended it.
It gave way, however, at Icngtli, to a trcton placed over the part,
— nut through iu 1 have also succeeded in reniovinij u very
large thoroiigli-pin in the lower situation, by the long coutiniK-u
application of equal parts of iodine and mercurial oiulmeiil, pre-
I
I
i
WOUNDS, BHU18ES, AND ABSCESS. 285
▼ioualy, bowero', BtimulatiDg the part with a mild liquid blister.
The subject was a race horse of great value, and the thorough-
pio entirely disappeared in about ten weeks. In some cases, the
synovial fluid in the thorough pin coagulates, and becomes or-
ganised and firm. -^ Ed.]
Curb.
This is a swelling in the back and lower part of the hock, ex-
tending from 6ve to eight inches ; the centre of the swelling
being about eight inches from the point of the os calcis. [The
cnrb is, in iis nature, similar to a strain in the back sinews, and
depends upon a strain and inflammation of the strong ligament
that passes from the oa calcts down the back of the hock to the
shank bone, and frequently involving the flexor sinews at the
same time. When the horse is thrown too much on his haunches,
this part is unduly exerted, and a strain and lameness is the
consequence. Some horses are predisposed to curbs from the
shape of their hocks.
If there be much inflammation, blood should be taken from
the thigh vein, a patten shoe put on, and the part kept wet with
a cooling lotion, after which it should be fired or blistered, the
former being by far the most effectual plan : the employment,
however, of the compound iodine ointment will be found of
much service. — Ed.]
CHAP. LI.
WOUNDS, BRUISES, AND ABSCESS.
These injuries may happen in various ways, by kicks, by bttes,
in leaping over hedges or gates, by kicking against stalls, and
many other ways. Various names have been applied to such
injuries, according to the manner in which they are inflicted.
[Thus we have punctured, lacerated, contused, or simple incised
wounds. They differ,- likewise, according to the part injured,
whether muscle, sinew, skin, or bone. In the horse, the healing
process is very powerful : the most extensive injuries heal In a
abort apace of time; and there is less danger than in the human
being of the wound becoming unhealthy.
Wounds of the muscles or tlesli heal much more rapidly than
in any other part, whilst those of the skin are particularly te-
dious; thus, in many wounds, we may judge of the time that
will elapse before the part gets well by the quantity of new skin
required. This is owing to the circumstance that new akin does
not grow in the middle of a wound, but only from the edges,
which thus renders cicatrisation a very tedious process. New
ekin la aevtr eeftnA witli Ktir, and thus ilir bU-mUh caused by
brokpn kncei; but ihe old *kin it ufu-n, to a atvat extent,
strrifbcd or drawn over ibe wound by tlie new sKin, and thus
llw vxpcclicd Uemisb is often greatly dtmtnUMI. Injuries of
tmdom or Itgunenu are dower in healing than ihoecaf muacle*^
from ih«' part iwc being so hij^hk oi^niitMl ; and, for the same
reason, Utose of hones are still more lediofu, ntiA often wilt not
beai until a portion exfoliates, die^ in faet, and U otut off.
It is generally im^^ned ihsi, when an extensive wound heals
^ickly, it U owin^; to the virtue of some particular medicine
employed. This however, is not tbe caw; it h owinf^ to iho
powers of nature, and it is rarely pcecaiary to do mure than
assist her o]>crBtions.
There are certain principles to be kept in view in Uio trtal'
mriu of wounds, an observance of which will greatly naiuet our
purpose.
In the first place, it is necessary to check ittordioate swelling
and inflammation, altlwugh ioAanunation, within certain houndi,
is a useful process.
Secondly, it is re<|iitsile, w)>enerer it be poesibie, lu get ■
depending orifKi; by ubich tin- matter can escape as it it
formed, otherwise it beconie* arrtd from being pent up, and,
•ei-king an exit, forms docp-Kotcd sinuei's, which greatly pro-
tract tlw cure.
lliirdly, it i» CMential tliat tbe external opetiins of a wound
stx>uld be largi', to titut it may not close uji until it be healed
from tbe bottani.
Wounds ofcavitics.sucb as ibcabdomen.tbe chest, or the joiniA,
must be treated on difTi-renl principles from thoae recommended ;
xhey must be closed ax toon at po«ible ; for the entry ol'air into
the abdomen or chest will be productire of dangerous inllamma-
tion, and in |)m- latter i>iluaii»n, imleed, will prevent the lungs
from acting. And in joint* the escape of synovia will cauw the
extremities of the boiio* to rub against each other, and thus pro-
duce the nio»t severe and dangerous inflammation, tmless the
wound is speedily closed, and tlie synovia conline<l to iu proper
reeeplacle.
To carry out iIm^c principles in (be treatment of common
wounds, it is ne«-K^ry, in the drtt place, in nconlnxed wound,
to employ ix)uliice<, warm fomentation!', or coid lotions, in order
to keep intlammalioii within bounds. If any <)irt or gravel, or
Other loreign subslnnce, luu entered the wound, it is necessary
to remove t)»cin and carefully clean (he woniiil with warm water.
If, however, the wound Itas been intlicti.-d with a iihnrp iti&tru-
iiient. tlie wound itself sWuld not be fomented, but tbe edgvt
sliould be brought together and eonliiicd by strong sutures;
]»ivinj[) lioweiTf, sufficient space at thi> hiwcr part to aflbrd M
WOUNDS, BRUISES, AMD ABSCESS. 087
exit to the matter that may form. If this can be obtained
without stitches it is better to avoid them. If the wound is not
deep, it U desirable to hsal it by the first intention, as it is called,
but it is rarely the case that this can be done in the horse. In
man, sticking-plaster assists this purpose; but the hair, in horses,
almost precludes its use. It is, however, an object of import-
ance to save the old skin as much as possible ; and, for this pur-
pose, sutures are often necessary, even when there may be no
chance of healing by the first intention. Metallic sutures have
lately been introduced by Messrs. Simonds and Spooner, with
the view of remaining in a much longer time, for silk and thread
usually give way in a few days, leaving a gaping wound.
In a lacerated wound of some depth and extent, it is fre-
quently desirable, if it penetrates downwards, to insert a seton
so as to procure a depending opening for the matter that may
form. In these wounds, the lacerated parts may be removed, as
this will fecilitate the cure. It is desirable to bring on a healtity
suppuration as soon as possible. For this purpose, the applica-
tion of a warm poultice for one or two days will be useful, if the
part is convenient for the purpose, otherwise the wound may be
sprinkled with a powder composed of equal parts of finely pow-
dered resin and powdered chalk ; inflammation being kept
down by warm fomentation at first, and cold lotions afierwards.
When the wound suppurates, it may be touched daily with a
little tincture of myrrh, and the following powder scattered over
it: —
Prepared chalk, powdered ... 1 ounce.
Armenian bole, powdered 2 drachms.
Alum, powdered 2 drachms.
Mix.
If the granulations grow above the level of the surrounding
skin, becoming what is commonly termed proud JUsh, they must
be kept down by the application of a little caustic, such as mu-
riate of antimony. It is important to attend to this, as it will
materially lessen the blemish. By this simple method of treat-
ment, the most formidable muscular injuries may be readily cured.
A simple bruise, where no wound is inflicted, merely requires
to be treated with poultices, fomentations, or cooling lotions, in
order to remove the infiammation by resolution, as it is called,
that is, to cause its dispersion. This, however, cannot always be
dooe; suppuration takes place, and an abtceu is formed. — Ed.]
£ Wounds of llie Salivaiy DucU
Are very rare, but sometimes they prove very troublesome from
the saliva escaping and preventing the wound from healing, and
occasioning, indeed, a fistulous wound. In a recent case, the
868
OIBEiiSES or THE HORSE.
tpplicaiion of a cmisiic to ttic part n!ll sometimes quickly sup*
oecd; and, indord. this hIwuIU also be tried in cases of foiij^r
eianclin);, — tho Imt iron being tbe best mode of appliciitmo.
Sometimes it is ne««sary to obliterate ibo funelioiis of ilie
parotid gland, which Mr. Pvrcival has occuntplislied b,v the
injection of a liquid caustic; and to whose worx I beg to refer
for a k'li^lhcnvd account of tliv discaK. — KD.J
^ Abtce**
I* a collection of inalt«r in the membrane under the Bkin,
frequently the effect of a bruise, but sometimes an eSbrt of
nature to throw uff tomettiing detrimental to the constitution.
When there is reason to believe that matter is forming, we
sliould hasten it by tioiilliees or foiiH'ntalioiiF. We iii^y jud^
whether matter is itillected under the skin, by placing the lln(;ers
of one hand on the sweltin};, and, with those uf the other, tap-
ping it lightly at nnotlK-r part, when t)ie undulation of a ftuKl
will be distinctly fv\l\ and if nialtcr is contained, the animal
will giivL-rnlty evince pain on pre»siire. On |ircuiiiK an abscct*
with the fingers, no marks will be left as in diopsicid swellings.
Alter sonitf time, tho sbsceu poini>, as it is termed; iluit is,
the matter appruaehes the surface at one- point in (larticular. at
which part, if lelY alone, itic skin being giitdually thinni-d by
absorption at length burets. Defore this takes place, it is belter
to open the aUteess; because th« external wound will ihen-b]!
Ix- le^s, and tilm because we can choose the be:(t placv for tlic
ujieningi which should be at iho lowest pari of the abscecs. Tht
opening iihould be made with a lancet, and should be large, so
tliat it may not heal very rapidly. The matter being evacuated
by preuure with the hands requires no lenU or ointments, but
generally heals rapidly with little furtlte-rRssij^iance. SanKtimcs,
however, ihe ulcer, a* it titen becomes, is ill conditioneiJ, and
does nnt heat. It will theit be necessary to inject some stimt>-
laiing application, sttcli as a ^ution of sulphate of copper, or of
xinc; and if any sinuses have formed, to lay (hem o[)eii with the
knife. — Ed.]
Sfrvut Ahsffts, Cappni llocit, Capidelt, ^.
Sometimes we lind that the conteitia of an abscess are of a
watery nature. It 'n then called a tirnrnt aljscMS, and tltotigli
productive of less pain than tiie formation of pus, its removal
IS Attended with greater difficulty. It does not point like a com-
mon abscess, nor is it go circunucribed, Iml often extends itself
very considerably. It is generidly situated under tl»e fasci« of
the muscles or cellular membrane, as well as the skin. It is
usually prmlucetl by blows or external injuries, and we ot\en
WOUNDH, BHUISES, AND ABSCESS.
find itat tlw point of tlic elbow, where it is termed cnptilrt, and
Uprodttcrd by a bruUc from the licel oPthc shoe in lyinj; rlown.
WeaUo fiml it nl t)ic point of the hock, where it is lertned r»/i/W
hoek, and is occniiioiied by kicking in the stable ajfainst the istall
post. It liiu b«-en stated hy utithors, thai the lluid in dipped
)iock> is collected within the cnpnilsr sheath of the (endon ; but
if we exomiiiv this tW-aih, we khnll find that its great strcngtli
retHJcn «uch distension impo»xihli.-. The fluid, in fact, is coU
lecled outside the tendinous nhetilh, hut iindemeulh the strong
CflUilar tnembmne, which Is Iierc inierpou-d between the skin
and th« tendon, in order to admit the extentive motion of the
)>ock.
We sometttnes find considerable collections of tcruin in the
thigh, either behind or on the inside of the stifle joint, ami also
UD the inside of the fore leg, where it is produced by striking.
The treatment of serous abscess is sometimes tedious and
troublesome, which is owing principally to the fact that, if we
cva4!uate ihe fluid, it is sure to form a^ain, frequently several
times, and is of^en attended by much inflammation. 1( the col-
Icclion of fluid be not extensive, we may first endeavour to dis*
perse it by external stimulants; in this, however, wc shall gene-
rally fail, in which case wc must evacuate it by a considerable
opening, so as to admit a free escape for the fluid which will again
Jbrm, or, what will still he better, insert a selon through llie
tumour. Ader this, a solution of blue or white vitriol should be
injected, so as to stimulate the )»ides of the cavity, and produce
an altered action. Al\er some time, pus will Iw tecrcicd instead
of serum, and then the part will soon get well. By this mode
of Ireiilnx-ni, 1 have }iuec(>eded in curing both capideis and
Ciipp<-d hoekw; but the latter with greater difficulty than the
forinvr. — Kd.]
Injuries of Bona.
[Wlien a botH- 1« much injured, either in a laeeraled wound or
a bruise prochicing an abscess, it is still more e9»eniial to make
a large exU-rnal opening, and to keep it open for some time ; for
Ihe clianccs arc thai a portion of the bone will exfoliate ; when
this appi-nrs likely to Uike place, we may expedite the process by
applying a strong caustic to tlie bone.
I lately md with a case in which a horse ran with great
violence aguinit the corner of a lamp post, which caused a very
deep and extensive wound in the breast, and injured the breast
bone to such a degree that three or four pieces of the bone ex-
foliated at different limes before tlw wound would heut. 'Hie
application of the caustic proved very serviceable, and the animal
entirely recovered.
Tbe lower jaw bone is sometimes injured to such a degree,
soo
DISEASES OF THE HORSE.
either by a kick, a blow, or the pressure of the bailor from hang-
ing bock, that an abscess (onm wiiliiii ibc platLS of ihc jaw, and
cloM to the teeth, and sometimes the boni* » fractured. 11k
external opening being exceedingly smalli tlie mitchief ohm
goes on lor months, and provt-s a EOuroc of great anacf'
ancv. To elTect a cure, the horse shoukl be cast, and a por*
tioii of the bonv rcmovw) by inoanii of a iri-jihine, and cauMic
n|i|)li<.tl 10 th*; ex|>o»4-d cavity, »o a« to cau»e an oxfoliuiion of
the injured bone. — Ko.]
' jrouutU of the AMomai, or Btily.
Wounds in the belly may happen in leaping over hedseSt or
pale gates> or may be inflicted by the bonis of a cow. Son>e-
limes the strong tendinous covering of tlie belly is rupiurpd,
while the skin remains entire ; the gui then protnide* ami forces
out tlvc skin into u tumour. This is a rupture of the belly, and
is thought incurable. I have known one very large rupture
cured by cutting out a piece of the sktn which covered it, and
tbeo sewing up the wound and Hup|>oriing it with a bandafie.
In some aecidenia llie »kin also i« dirideiU witb its pcritooeal
covering; the gut then coinw oui, and tlie wound is of a vety
dangerous nature, still more ao if the gut itself is wounded. Tlie
first thing to be done is to put the gut back, uking care to re-
move any dirt or other matter that may be sticking to it; for
which purpose, should it be found necessary, it may he wasliod
with warm water, nothing else. If the gut cannot be returnwl,
from its being full of air, and the opening in the belly too small
to put it back again, that opening may be cflrefully enlarged 10
the iicccBiary size. IJut if the unimul can Ih- thrown upon
back eonvctiit.'nily, a great tleul may be done tliuc caiiitot
otherwise accoiniilinlieil. After the gut is returned, ilie skin
only should hn xtitchcd up; and a cushion of several folds of okl
hnen and low being placed on tlie wound, it should be kept in
its situation by meaiiii ufa wide bandage rolled round the bodr.
and cJtrofully secured. The animal sliould then be copiously
bled, an<l have hi* bowels emptied by clyslcr*. 'lite only food
he should be allowed is grass or bran mashes, and tluit only iu
moderate ()uant!ty.
IVoutidtJrom Uwrnt are often very troublewme. It Is noccntn-
in the first phwo lo examine the part carefully, and extract, with
e pair of directing forL-t-p* or pliers, every part of llie thorn thai
may remain. Whi'n a tendinous part or a joint haa been punc-
tured by a thorn, a very trotdjlesome lameness is sometimes the
consequence, especially when the thorn lias not been extracted
immeoiately, or soon after the accident. Emollient poulUcea do
not always remove the inflammation produced by such woundsi
0* might be expected; and when I hey are found to fail, lunar
cuwtc should be applied; and if the lameness still continue^
bet
votTKos, Dnuises, and abscess.
the pan sliould be btistered. In difsecting tlie legs of Itorst'«
after deatb, t)iat have been pertecllv inuiid aiid rrc^ from hwiOI-
ing, I have found thorns in different parts, lying flat, atid evi-
dently harmless ; but I dissected a leg lately of a pony that had
been very lame, and found that the two flexor tendons bad
rmed adhesions immediately below the fetlock joint, evidently
•m inflammation produced by a thorn ; for I iound the point
of the thorn, though probably the accident had occurred several
tnontlis before. It U remarkable iliat the thorn was very blackt
as if charred, and all the surrounding paru wei-e nearly of the
mac colour.
pMaj
ij be BO slight as to occasion little inconvenience, or so
•eriuus as to render the animal entirely useless. Between these
extremes there are a great variety of dcgrcea.
The knee con>ats of three separate articulations, the upper-
of which i« that between the dkIIus or foroEirm and the
row of bone« ; the next is that betwet-n the upper row and
under; and the third bittween the under row and the cannon
»}uink. Thus there are three joints exposed to injury, and
very near the suHace, being proteclea only by the capsular
igamont and ihe skin, and partially by the extensor tendons.
r'hen the knei.- Is l>eni, as it necessarily is when the animal
fiilla, the joints are ojiened to the utmost, and the skin is drawn
, — this accounts for the lact that in broken knee* the
ound apiK-ars lo go downwards, and the internal injury appears
lower situated than the extci-nal one. A broken knee may be
confined to an injury to the skin, or the tendons may be lace-
lated and even divided, or one of the joints may be opened^
and the bones greatly injured. Sometimes the ligaments of the
knee arewvercly siniinecl by the fall.
>\^cn the injury is cunfined tn the skin, and is not extensive,
tlie wound may be covi-red daily with tlie astringent powder or
paite, l)i-fore recommended, and the knee fretiuenily wetted with
a cooling lotion. A little work will not be iniurious.
If tlie wound be extensive, or the tenuons injuiTd, after
fomenting ll>e part, removing the dirt or gravel, and cutting off
^^uny ragged parts, the kuL'c may be poulticed for a few days,
^^■KKingcarc tnat the liguture which confinr» the stocking below
^Hthe knee should not be ku light lut to produc<- mischief; the
^Vpoulticc may be prevented from slipping down by tape or list
' passing over the witbei-s. In a few days the knee may be treated
I the same us another lacerated wound, but sometime* It is very
desirabh- to insert a seton through the lowest part of the wound,
find that sinews and ligaments will heal readily, although not
ra^dly as the Hesb. — £i>.3
S93
DISEASES UF TIIK IIORSB.
Opened Ju'ihU.
[When in a broken knot^ iht- joint in foiinil to be opened,
f^wliicb, however, cannot always be tuC4.*rtuincd at first, — it
becomes a very serious ufluir, and must no longer be treated as
a common wound. Our [>n)(;iKui» in xuch case will depend on
tlie cxii-nl ol'llic wOHiid, |K»riii;»lurly that of llic capsular liga-
ment, and on the circtimMiu)C« as to wbeilier infUimniation Ivu
been id «p in the cavity of the joint.
In l)ic trfotment of such eases our object must be to close the
joint as qni4;kly t» [Kissilile, and thus to pr«^-ent the escape of
synovia; unlc^ we succeed in doing thisi the intlanimation of
the knm* will {greatly increase, and the discharge of synovia bo-
come augmented in quantity, partly ooa;;ula[ing as it cscapm
fiom llK'knee, and hanging in large flakes from ttie wound j
the iminml, froni the pain experienced, keeps the knee in • (wnt
piuiiioii, or pawa with tlie foot continually. A vast deal of ferer
is excited in the system, which in some eases wears down the
animal, and produces death. In oilwr cases, bony substance in
thrown out round the joint, which at length clo<e« the wound, but
destroys ibe motion of the joint, and renders tlic animal useli^Kh,
To prevnit »uch result we mu»t by no meiuts keep poulticing
or fom<titing the knw, an tlitK will only enconmgo tbe diseharve
anil keep up the irritation ; tlte real soothing niettwd will be the
application of styptics or causlica to the knee. In many cases, if
thr o|M-ning \* xmall the application ofllie hot budding-iron will
produce an eschar ihat will close the Mvnnd; or if it be a punc-
tured wound, the application ofluiiar caii^lic, cut to » point, will
accomplish our puq^se. In other cose^ where rite injury is
more extensive, ttie application recommended by Mr. Dawson,
of spirits of wine saturated with corrosive sublimate several time*
» day, has succeeded. The clot of coagulated synovLi sbouM
not be removed from tlie wound, but tbe caustic applied round
it. It may sometimes be necessary to apply tbe sublimate in
a solid state, alone or mixed with flour or powdered chalk.
It is very impurtant to keep the iinimal in a state of perfect
qiiieiud*- ; lie should be removed to the nearest stable, but by no
means walked a considerable drxiniiev tncr the accident. Tbe
leg should Im^ kept lu straight as possible, and, if neceanry,
splints should be placed at the back of ilic knee. Tlie animal
siiould by no means be allowed to lie down, as iliis will open
the wound and increase the irritation. In many coses it will be
judicious to suspend the horse bv moans of slings. In sever*
an<l desperate eases it will be advisable to adopt tlio [»laii
commended by Mr. Tliomas Turner.
After waslting tbe woimd, and removing all dirt and gravel. '
be prepares a iiostv of wheatcn flour and table beer with a
WOt'NDS, nilL'ISCS, AND AOSCKSS.
29.1
I iliei
Armenian bole, which he cprpads (liickly on and round tlie
knee, Olid above aitd below ii. A pledget of tow is then applied
round the joini, (hen some stout brown paper, and over iliis a
cotton stocking; on the outside of the stocking another Is ver
of paste and a calico banciage '■'tx yards long iit then to be rolled
round with moderate and regular preMiire ; alter which another
bandage of the «aiiie I<-ngth. 'I'he hoi-«- Is bU-d, and luu a lax-
ative, but the dreiisiiig i* not r«nove<l until the joint 'i» closed.
He advieea the hone to be slung. In the course ofa few days
there will be, probably, much swelling of the leg fi-om the preg-
sure of the bandage, which he relieves by making small inci-
sions tlirough each laj-er of the bandages on each 9i<le of the
knee, but not in front. In the course of six or seven dayt, if
lliere IK much accumulation of fluid within the bandages, an in-
cision must be made to afford an exli, and anoilicr dressing of
iSie and a bandage applied. Mr. Turner kei-ps the horse eus-
nded undi a wwk after the joint appears to be closed, after
which the iianditges arc removed, and the leg w8»tK-d, and the
wound dressed in the u^ual way. The swollen yittvir above the
knee he has rubbi-«i with an evaporating lotion several times a
day. but does not allow it to wet the bandage.
The woundt of other joints must be li'eated on the same
principles as that recunimended for the knee. — Ko.]
SaddU or Harneu Galls, ft'arblo, Wawl Gallt, <^.
^H These may be considered as bruises, and when it can be done,
^Kbould be poulticed, until the swelling has been dispersed or has
^'suppurated. If the matter has not sufficient vent, the opening
may be enlarged or the einus laid open, if there is any. It
must then be dressed with digestive omitnent, and when it has
been reduced to the state of a clear op<-n sore, the cure may be
finished by the astringent paste or powder.
I
These appear like dark-coloured scabs on the back, but arc
eally dead hard skin, and cannot be removed until they have
been poulticed a few days. Then they may be sepaiatod by
means of a p.iir of pliers ; hut it requires some force to remove
i)ieni, and geiiei-ally a few strokes with the knife. When this
has been done, die cure may be completed with the astringent
paste^ applied once in two days, and the scab removed previ-
ously to each application. A little salad oil may be necenary to
•often the cicatrix after the wound is healed.
By reiwaied bniiws of the back part of the jiaddle, the spinous
process of one of the lumbar vertebne is sometimes tnjuretl, and
V 3
SM
DISEASES OP THE HORSE.
an enlargement takes place, on wbieh it is very trader, and re-
quires to have the saddle ele^-aled or channcllnl in tliat part, to
■eeare it from pressure. .Sometimes a hard vrliitv substuiee
fbnn», which can only be removed by laying open the skin and
diMecting it out.
Hor«« Jtomrtimc* become wry lame by travelling in muddy
roiuln, mervly by the mini beinn «pljwl>c<i up bctwtvn itw arm
and che«t, where, by friclion of the fiinli iigainsi the skin, it
cati.4«K inftiiinniaiion and gre«t soreness. Tlie best remedy for
tl)i» ifl ronitinlatioiifl, or tJtc saturnine loliOD} and r«»t.
I have found ttie followirij; lotion an excellent application in
such cnsn, as well as in allaying tlie exeessire irritalton of a
blister, when it has been made too strong : -~
Lotion.
Siilpliate of zinc 1 oi.
Stipcr^acetate of lead 1 oz.
Water I quart.
Mix.
Fittula of the H'i/Aer».
I
niis <liitenK comes by verj- severe bruises from the fore p«n
of the Middle, which bcinj^ neglcct^-d and repented from time to
time, produces at len^tli iin inflnmmation of the spinous pn>-
cesses of the dorsal veriebrje. A deep-«eaied ab*ce« is tlie
I coii»equence, and the matter [u-netrati-s in dtfleretit directions
^before it ai-rivet at the surface, where at lengtli it causes a
imour, which is very diflerent from a common abscess, and
tTcquires always a considerable time to be cured. To gi^'e vent
rto the matter is the first object, and when (hat has been done,
the extent of the injury mu»t be ascertained.* When iJiii
cannot hu done, and thin in soTm-tinu'^ the cane, the caustic
tents must be introduced ; and when the slough or core which
this causes, has separated, which will generally be in tJiree or
four days, the finger should be introduced as' well as a probe,
and the direction of the sinuses ascertained. A depending
opening for the matter to run off freely must always l)C obtained,
by cutting open tlic part frrely.f- Ifti clean sore haa l>e<-n ihui
produced, or if it can be ascertained that there are no more
sinuses or pipes, tlie cure may be etTected by mild dressings, or
• Someiiinc* fiiiiii)oii» witiicn ronimciKi: viiih a tort of wen or UutBsr
■ituul«tl beciicm the Khniitii«r lilndct, nnil produrrd by prcMim. TUt w*a
Is i-unipo«eiJ or strong nwrnbrMioua nibitnncc enclosing a fluiil. MIktii twh
is iho CHK. ihr whols should be <Ili«eclud out, an otiierwiw the part will iiui
btffll (csilily. — En.
f It IB s Qiniter of much importance lo \ny open the ttnuses as snocli as con
be cloot with sufcty. — Eo.
POLL eriL.
tents of tligesiive ointment, tincture nr myrrti. Sec ; but thic i*
seldom tlie case, and repeated di'esainga with caustic tents arc
generally necessary." As soon as ihe bottom of llie sore is
arrived at. it urill of^en be found that the tops of the spinous
proce«Ees, or tlie ligament covering them, have been injured,
and the bare bone may be distinctly felt vriih the probe. When
this is the case, the bare bone must be Bcrspcd with a suitable
instrument, and thi-n drcfscd wiib tincture ol myrrh ; after this
the wound wiJl readily hcnl by continuinf; to dress it with tinc-
ture of myrrh or difjestivc ointmciil> according to Uio directions
given in the chapter on wounds.
I
Poll Evil.
„ This disease may be produced by a manoy horse rubbin;; his
head under the manger, and sometimes liJtinf! it up suddenly
when frighlcncd, also by hanj;in^ back u|ion liis halter. It i«
more fre<|uvntly produced by striking the poll in going under a
ikarrow doorway, or running back when partially got through.
The part principally injured is the sharp ridge of t]ie occiput
and the neighbouring p.irts; and thus the mischief l>eing so
deep seated, it is some time before the swelling appears exter-
nally, and still longer liefore the matter approaches the surface.
The matter that forms in consequence being so completely con-
fined, spreads and renders carious the under surface of the
ligtinient of the neck, as well as the posterior part of the occi-
pital bone, and sometimes of the ailiui or first bone of the ttuck
also. I once attended the opening of a horse that was never
nuoeeied of having a disease, but aied in consequence of some
accident. On cutting off the head, I found that the first bone
of the neck, as well as the under surfiice of the great cervical
ligsuK-nt which passes over it, were highly diseaKCtT. Since tliat
I have examinm anottier horxc that died of an inflammatory
disease; I had no suspicion of any disease in the ligaments
which unite Uie two firnt vertcbru; of the neck, but merely
wished to examine the part. I found them, however, in a state
of disease. This disorder, then, is precisely of the same nature
as fistula of the withers, and requires a similar IrciUmenl.
TItere ii great diAieulty in obtaining a depending opening or
drain for the mattei' in thiM case, and from the large arteries
near (he bones of the neck, It cannot always be effected by the
knife. Caustic tents, therefore, *muet be depended upon for
that purpose, and if properly applied and pertisted nt, will
^nerally accompli»h a cur«*. The wound, however, must be
'ully examined from lime to time with a probe, and if a
L* Tlie chloride of lime luu bcca cmplof etl tuccessfliUy in tbcM cate*.— Bd,
V 4
DISEASRS OP TRE BORSC
carious boiie can be fell, it roust be freely leniped, and if a loose
lut ii found, it uuist be taken ouu When llie direction of tbo
•iniue* can be ascertained, it will be found aometimes tlwt a
drain can Ire made by means of a wion. But setona *1k>uI(1
I pever be put in, a» tl>ey sometimes arc, vriihoul it has first been
Moertainra tliat a drain can be iniini-diately made by tht-m,
and ibat a drain cannot be obtaintil but by Laying open tite
parts frcfly."
Many oountry farriers have a »«ret method, or rather a
receipt, for the cure of the fittnia and tlie poll-evil, and they
certainly sometimes succeed. Ttw prt^iaralion ih^y employ ap-
pears to be arsenic mixed wiih n little lard, which, however
CunHiilly employed, produr<.-« tlie moat alarming degrot; of
inflammation and sloiif^hinf^, ^u much so, that 1 have no dovbt
of its sotnedraet proving flital. 1 tiave lately known nn intract-
able case of (istuia, cured apparently by this application. The
fietiita was in the lower part of tIte neck near the withers, and
not in the usual situation of fistula. It np)>enred aa if about
llie iiftli cvnipal vertebra had been injured. The wound hsd
been healed several times but always broke out again. At
length the cane was undertaken by a liirrier pomeestng lhi»
secret, who, after makin*; a suitable oj>ening with a hot iron on
llic omwstte sitle obliquely u]>ward4, introdticed bis arsenical
remedy. 'I'he cotiterjuence wa«, a dreadful degi'oe of inflam-
mation and sloughing, which greatly alarmed the proprietor.
But the wound gradually filled, and after some Itnie perfectly
healed.
[The employment of external pressure by mcona of splents
has been found of great service in the irL-atment of poll-eriL
Mr. A. Gray relates two successful cases of poll-i-vil of long
Htatiding thus treated, in the fifth volume of tl»e rrfenWrian ,■ lie
saysi, " The mare u-iw m-m to me, and I proccedi-d to examine
llie extent of the <Ii!(eit9i<e. 1 found two di-ep sinu&es, one on
each side of the neck, the bones of which could be distinctly
fell with the probe. After cleaning away the matter, 1 took a
acalpel, and hiid both orifices open in an oblique direction down-
wards, ilien having fomented the parts with warm water, I
dressed llio wounds with tincture of myrrh and aloes; and, is
order to apply pressiin^ to (he jxirt*, (fur in this I founded all
my hope of sticows), I liiid two pieces of woo<l prepared, about
twelve inches long and three broad, lliicker in the middle than
at the edges, which were rounded off, and also a long flannel
bandage, four inches brood. I then placed two pledgets of low
• Mr, Jnmc* Clnrk «trongl>' recoininnMls netont for tlic cure of lh« poB-
cvil, iiol only us ihc mom cxpeilitiouK niiil teMt jwinrul IMlboit, Inil llkcwi"
oo accoimt of its ntusinji lew hlnnUh.
FRACTtinE&
297
ne«t the wounds, putting on the piec^ of wood one on e«ch
aide, and then applied the bandage over all, ttn<l aa tightly u« 1
could, without impeding (Ipgliiiitioii. It i.i iiecewary, wliiic
putting on the bandage, lo keep llio no*v extended, in order lo
adapt the bandage more perfectly to the jmi-t, and apply it more
elosdy. I removed the baiiiliigo night iiiid morning, and hud
the parls well fomenkd and dresiod with the tincture; and in
Jk course of four weeks the mare wa» well." — Ed.]
CHAP. I.II.
FRACTtHES.
[FBACTunEa are much rarer in the liorse than in the human
Gubjectf arising, no doubt, from the greater uniformity in the
labour of quaiJrupcd§, and from their being much less exposed
to caiuahies than men. Tliey are, however, by no means un-
frcqucnl, and the meiacarpals and phaliinges are probably more
expcwed to the accident tliun tlie other bones, and ihey likvwi^c
admit a better chance of euro than if thi- radius or the humeniK
in the fore, or the tibia or femur in the hind extremity, arc
fractured ; from the powerful muacles attacheil lo thcve bones,
und the :i)ia]>e of the hmb, it is extremely difficult to retain tho
partit afterwards in a proper position for union, and in the
generality of com-h it i* most prudL-nt to d<-*troy tJie hunte. The
want of success that attends the greater number of coses of
fractures in llic hor»e, iv owing to llie following reasons : — The
restlessness of ilte animal ; the imjKMsibility of niakinfr him
as%ume the recumbent position as in a man; the difficulty of
slinging him for any lenjjih of time; the circumstance of his
linving, in many instances, used the limb after the fracture, thus
displacing the bones to a considerable extent ; and the fracture
extetiding into a joint, or being very complicated or SM-erc.
7'o ensure a cure, therefore, it is necessary that the horse should
be tractable — that the fracture should not be very complicated
— that the home should not have walked a distance on the leg
aHerwards — and that the bones should not iiave been much
dixplaced. When these favourable coincidences are present, and
ibe animal is of sufficient value to pay for the expense of a few
Booths' keep, we may then be justified in aiiempting a cure.
Treatmeni. — There are many successful cases of fractures on
jrd, a full account of which may bv found in the editor's
ealisc on tlie foot nnd leg of the horse. In the eleventh volume
the t'etrrittariiti, Mt'> r riotid, in a iudicioux ]Ki[>i'r on the
ibjcci, mentions a case of fracture of ilie humerus, without
DIgBWIS OP Tm BORSE.
diitplaremeiil, which he treated witli tlepletioti, abtoluie rot,
astrhigei)! applications, and luw diet, under wlitch it perfecUy
recovered.
Ill the same volume, p. 144., there is an intereKtiiig paper on
tlie 6uhje«i from Mr. Mayer, in whicli he supports Mr. Kricad'i
views, and strongly advises the employment of aplinu and
bandages, so as to prevent the displacement of the bona : in
support of which, )io adduces a case of Fracture of the tibia, to
which he applied an adliesirc plaster, attd over this three splints
on the outside and two on the inxide, bandaging the whole limb
from till' slifli- to the fetlock, and keeping the parU wet with a
eooling ap|ilication. Mv also nH-ntions n successful case, id
which the liirgc ptutoni hone was fractured and displaced. To
tlM'se 1 c^uhl add some succeaaful cases of fracture of the lai^ce
pastern, in which the bones were not di^laced : one^ a coach
norse, that had walked some miles nfierwanU ; no otlter treat-
ment but bandages and cold application was used; tlie animal
I took great care of the lame leg and the parts iiiiiled. though
Kccompanii'd with some ossilic enlargement. Another was a very
singular nue of a thorough-bred marc that had injured herwlf
in racing, and could scarcely b*.' got to the stable, wliere she
almost eonstanily prcwrwd a recumbent posture, ihc pain slie
experienced when xtanding Iwing so excessive. I found one
fetlock dreadfully sintined, and the largo pastern of xiw oilier
tog fracturi-d, hut not dinpiaoed. 'I'he case Hp|)earc4l ItopelcM;
but oa the mnre was likt-ly to lie iii>eful as a brood niareisW was
put under trt'dtmenl, which comi»ivd chiefly of antiphlogistic
measures. The fracmred leg entirely recovered, but very con-
siderable Iwiiy deposition took place round the joint of the other
fetlock, wliirli rendered her afterwards lame, diough fit for the
purpose intended. — Ed.]
CHAP. Llll.
ON THE STHUCTUBB ASO ECONOMY OF THE FOOT.
It has been justly observed that widiout a sound foot a hone
is but of little value, however perfect he may be in all other
rexpecla. It is the basis of the whole supemtrticture ; and when
we consider what immense weight is someiinies thrown upon
tliis part in the violent exertion* to which the animal is expoeod,
it will not appear strange titat it should be so frcqiienily, as we
find it, alTecied with lameness. It lias been the fiuliiun for sotne
years to attribute the frequency of tlw horse's laineneas to bod
shoeing; but it is time, as Mr. Bracy Clark luu observed, (oi
STnUCTURE AND ECOKOMY OF TUE FOOT. M9
all this idle declamation to cease. It is not shocine tiiat causes
the peculiar frefjurncy of lameness, and incurablv laIn(^nl'ss, in
this ouuntr)'; but the immocUratc work the lionc is made to do.
Much has Ix-cn said of the supL-i-iority of tltc Frunch mode of
■faoctflg, and ailiMn[iU have been made to introduce an iinjirore-
ment on the French method into llii« country, and a v«ry im-
portant imprownK-ni it certainly i* ; bill at to the French shoe,
oonsidt^r^l witlioiit the method of tutilin^, in which they certainly
excel, I Uiink it tlie veiy wor*t form I ever saw in this country.
As the diiteases of the honte's foot form an esseniial branch of
the subject upon which I am now writing, it is presumed that
a brief description of its strncture and economy will not be un-
acceptable lo the readerti of this valume.
liM're is not, in llic whole structure of tho animal, any part
so richly organised as the foot, althoiiglt the eye ]>erha[w may be
ofTcrod as an exception ; for it exceeds in the extreme delicacy
of iu tlruclnrc any thing that can possibly he imagined.
To a common observer the foot may appear a mass of in-
•eimible horn ; but it is compoiu^ of an auemblage of springs,
esj>ecially when considered in n.-latioit to tlie fore leg, which
admirably adapt it, not only to the uses of ilie animal considered
individujiJIy, but to the uses of man alto; and so carefully has
it been guarded, that were the animal cmploywl only to supply
the neoe*.iitin of man, his feet would last a» long, even if shoed,
as any other part of his body. He tta* t>cen made, howover,
subservient to his luxuries and that too in so high a degree
tltat he has materially degenerated from his original strength
■nd hardihood of consiitution. The immoderate exertion* in
which he is now generally employed arc such as sufHcienily
■ecouni for tlic great number of crippled horses iliai are con-
•Uuitly offering themselves to our notin', especially in stage
tMcbea and [»»( clmises.
In deicribiiig the horse's foot it may not be amiss to take a
general view of tlie fore leg, in which we sliall find an assemblage
of large sprinjcn, auisting in the same purpose however as those
of the foot. The shoulder blade is placed obliquely against the
•idc, and attached solely by muscles, by the elasticity of which
the body of the animal, as well as the ricUf, is enabled to bear
thoae violent motions which must have otherwise been insup-
portable. If wc look at the skeleton of a horse, we shall be
struck with the position of tlie shoulder blade and the shoulder
bone, each lying obliquely, but in opposite directions, so on to
form an acute angle at the joint, and of course a considerable
spring. We may observe the same admirable contrivance in the
hiod parts, where the femur, or thigh bone, forms an angle with
the pelvis, ami with the libia or leg bone, or, as it appears, and is
commonly named, in the living tior*e, the thigh bone. In viewuig
80Q
nisF.ASES or the hobse.
the fore leg of lh« Aniinal, we shall find in the oUiquilT of t!te
nn.«trrn another powerful spring; and when we consider ibe
iRMiHMise weight it roust occasionally support, as in pitching from
a high leap on the ground with a beaiy
weight, it must appear asioii lulling how
such a tremendous slwck can be sup-
ported by so small a body ; yet we shall
find upon examination such provisiooi
M wilt enable it to bear any reaeooable
weiglii tliHt can be placed upon it. If
wc now (lesocnd to an exnmination of
tiie foot we nhall (ind in it--* horny coter*
ing iinoiher niniple aiKl cfTi-ctuit) spring]
simple IIS to iu construction, and cttn-
lual as to t)ic nurptMc which it uuwcn,
oi the animal s weight, and thereby bmk-
by cLuiic lulMancr. M. I»een gradually destructive lo the foot
«r«oi Ills iif.my bni<i>«. itself. The Mof is a secretion from the
?w crl;!^.'"""™'' *''"" '^ ''"'"« pft""' «*■ '•'p *«"' "« "►'o"." *■««»
t. Ttio ooroiurr iiitMUBrn or the coronct, hut iVom tlte living surface
liguni-ni irhiel. H-errtim which it covers, named by Mr. Coleman
™!!™"" '""™" "' "'" <*«■ laminated substance of the foot ; and
by others the elastic lamiuiD or procesKs
of the foot. Ak tlie quantity of horn necessary lor the defence
of (lie »cn«ible foot is considerable, a laive ouantity of blood i«
distributed to it ror the purpose, and is
supplied by two large arteries which pMS
down on eneh side of the pastern ; these
give nfTcontiilcrablc branches to the frog,
curtilages, ami coronary ring; but the
trunk of the artery enters in ut the pos-
terior and inferior part of the eofiin bone^
and divides into eight branches widiin
the bone, which pass out ai the circum-
ference, or angle of (l>e toe, and give off
FS(.S. TtiBatitmr/riiiStt^ innumerable branches at>oul like inferior
Jjj* ^^ **^ '^'^ part of the laminat.-d Htbsumce. especially
n. Tiir xntibla wIf. about tla* toi'. Tlivdi«iribulion of blood
»», Ths RDuUc bwi. to the frog is remarkable: liere wr find
ce. Ill* Minnbl* ftog. several branches of conuderable si«e with-
"7XK.w::S.S;X <>'" P-ng ofr other benches « in U«
homy*oU'.inn.*ndf^HU> other parts of the foot until they am tv
»hioh iiitj a™ ituchcd. near the surface, and liore they spread
into innumerable branches, supplying the skin or secreting sur*
fcce of the frog, and communicating with those of the skin of
*
eTRUCTURE AND BCONOMY OV TIIK FOUT.
.SOI
the sole, or nen^tiblc solv; so lliat t)i« frog and sole rorm one
continued tur&cc of Hkin, of great vascularity tincl scnsibiliiy;
but gmt]y inferior in botli respects to llic tanilnatcd aub-
(taiHre, which ix more richly organisctl, both a* to blood-vc&sgls
and wrvti', than iiiiy other part of the hotly. From this viow of
iKe foot it will appear tttat, wlicn ttic horse itaiiils in the stable,
without exercise, the vein* of the fore leg do not return llie
blood freely, from warn of the prcMurv which exerciiic occa-
sioiu. The blood therefore acctimtilale* in the fooL 'ilio vcs-
^^Jiii_.
Tig. 9. Fn»l I'irr .,/ ili B«nti <•/ Ihi
Faat aiut nufno.
h, Th* In^ putrm or « luffViiEiniL
*t Tht 0rut1 piulcm or m foronir.
d, Tbo eoffln Ixioi', or m pvdU. iliowing
■U lM*fi»Bl«il ami im|t»Ur lurfMr.
Fig. *. Bad I'uw d/ tA( Bonn of tfia
yoot um/ I'oUfrM,
it a, '}i\%t lOBiiuiid boDci.
ft. 't1l» lufR'" pnlicni.
<, 'Hic hUbiU (uiHtt-ni-
if, Tim coflin honi. (tioiriiig ila lavW
■urfocG w\i\\ Ihc hol« for the pwiftt
of iheutvtiMtu ilic venire of itiu bane.
r, 'I1i» iiivicuUr UunE.
sels of the laminated substance, from the prea^ui-e of the hoo^
admit only of a determinate quantity, especially at that part
where the horn is remarkahly thick, and where elasticity is
not so essential. The lateral cartilages are two elastic bodies
attached to the coffin Imtie, at its upper part, and proceeding
bnclcward, like exjuinded wingA, terminate at ilie extremity of
the heel : they ussitit, us I have before observed, in expanding
tlie heels an<l qunriers. The navicular, or nut bone, is placed
behind the coffin boiii*, and is attached to it as well as to tlie
L
303
DISEASES OP T1I& HOUSE.
«nuill pantrni booe^ and afTortU a synovial or i>1ippcr\' surface for
tlio tlcxtir ti>iidoii to move upon. This bone witl) the coffin
niu) itTiinll [>iuf<-m rorm« the coffin joint, and is retin-crnted iti
ttie i>crj>ciiJiculur kciiod of the hoof. Sw Frontispiece.
FI^ S. Bittl <if lA< l\uta* aid FiiletH.
a «, The flriin pctfbrant If nilon rrncrg*
uig fioiH ^u tlimllt, e(>>nfiil» ai it
prUKt iliiwii, niir! II iiiH*fIi.->l inu cUc
t> The flctar |>rrrtinitui ivK<I>>n. funniiij;
a glmlh fur the Dthit i *nd niter iliiiil-
ins » iniMlol inlo the mull putcra,
r c, llic lalctal ewtili^M alUclied lo Uw
MSto barut.
d, Tht iMtioiii of ibv coffin bon*.
Fw. 6. Kpmcnti the bwh ran of tlia
ibal. paitL-rii. anil liiiluck jnlnl. dU-
■ccUal, in oidvr tu thuv th« iLgAm^nln
*nil oartiUgn.
a, Yttt uooolh luiftcc, over which the
bMk imoiii (Una.
tv The llgwHciil which onelaKt tin tnuk
Fig. «. Bati </ ih> Foot. pMari, mi
FiUatt Jatnl.
linevi, farming a ■hoMti Cor |)Nig,Ml
lumping llwmlnllidrKltuaUaa, bttk
prtpinilioii Kune put cf lh« ligiMMI
wa« rnnotiMl. in «nl*T t« afaov A*
■nuwih tui&M a.
ddd, A iigunnM, going tttmt tW «>■
moid fanan l» lliv mall |iul«nii iU
lUB wtEiU 1» b* thai or fciving ^tnftt
to the put«m joiiii. wkicli, t«a At
oblique p«Hti«a of th« partem bten
would alheTvae have tNut Tf 'm»-
CIIPC.
r, II10 liuertiun uf llie lif^nml j <"
ncli tijl^ i> ^)OvTi ibv ppnbraluB It^
don, cut sir Ji»l ptT*i0<u to lit k*-
ten ion.
//, The Uleral uflilage*.
g, Tliii boiiom at the oolBn I
Thv Mnall pcwtcra iIiiih nrticiiletcs with the coffiti bone and
th« nut bonr below, iin<l wiih the great postern nbovr : thoe art
all ihi* bon«« compri-hentled in a description of ilie foot. IV
colTin bone in coinpleii-ly cellular lhroii{;hoiii, niid has riok
blood within it than aiij- one botiv in the body, ihotigh not fir
STBUCTVRC AND BCOKOMT OF TBE FOOT.
!W3
from being the emaliest of l!»e wliole. The i^reat flexor leiidoti
is inserted into the boitom of tlie coffin bone, and the extensor
tendon on its front and upper part. Tbus ibe sensible foot is
composed of the paateni, the navicular, and the coffin bone ; ihe
Isteral cartilages, the Eensible frog and sole, and ibp laminated
EubeUtncc; at tlic upper part of whicb lliere is a kind of car-
lilaginoiis ring, wbicb has been named by Mr. Coleman tlie
coronary lignnii'itt. Tbis coronary substance, instead of ternii-
iiating at ttiv heelti, !s continued into the senslblL- frog, and from
tills conn«:tlon, nnd its situation over the lateral ciirtiliiges, it
ntusi be subject to the sume motion wlilcli these parts have.
Wltcn th« frog, then, is exjwsed to tlint iircsauie lor wbicb it
vratt cvidonily ikiiigiiul, It expanil^ nnd coiiti'actf, and in so
doing common IcalW u .timlbr inolion to the ciirtiliigen, tlie co-
ronary ring, utd tbo hevU and quarters of tlit; hoof.*
fFor an tnlimatc acquaintance of tbe foot of the horse, other
"Works niay be coiuulied ; but a direful inspection of die plates
in ibis work will givt' a very ((ood gtiu-ral idea of the situation
of tbe parts, and this will he greatly assisted by a comparison of
(ese paru witb tbe foot and W itself.
Fig. I., p. 800., represents tbe foot with tbe crust removed,
■ Tfae foUowlns experiment acrvc* to ihoir the cxpniuivc properties or (lie
X. AfiLT till- shoe of B laodcrnle-siicd foot win rcuioti-il, untl tbo solv part
enrcd oiil, ft MDuiiili ^heet ofjinpcr wuh up|ilii.-il Co it while uD'thu )^ounil, nnil
eing preucil opiiiiiil the fool, the tiigvi of tht cri»t were rircfiilly mnrke<l, no
ks togire the emctsiicofthefooL Tliiibcrni;dune. the luuinaa tlieo placed
00 a tmoolh d«ul bouril. witli nnutlii^r sliM't of paper pliceiJ ujion tliu bourd :
•nd tlic other foot being now liclil up, the horJcr oflhe ciii»C m n* marked uilh n
pencil, taking rare thai ihc mark* were not made more <-xterior !□ the hordcr
of ttie iruKt than belbrc. On conipnrinR the popcrs topi-lher, ihe one last
taken wa» found pereciilibt}' wrder Ihun llii- olhcr. Tile increuocd width dm
■eat to cdiDnicnce f;rndual)]t about the iiiiiUle of (he fool, nil it reached otmut
halfaa inch aulprior to the hecli, when it very ■lijiliilj' iliniinishcd. The dif-
ference was found to Iw, ai near u pouibic, one twelfth ol' lui Icich ut ihc
hecb. The experiment was condiictM with csre and cxactiie»», htid clenrly
proved (bat the foot expanded from Ruperincumbent wciuhl ; and if iJiC hone
bad beaoin f«M tuotion. (he prciturc would, of con ne. have been greater and
llic cxnuMioin more. Ii did not nppenr Irum (ht- cuiiEriiiienc thut llie front
part ol ihc foot expanded at sti, su without aH«ertiiifj thul it poMCtiieit no
puwer of Ihe sort, we mini beconlrnicil with obirrv injc tluii if poisruod, it 14
not fal a uifficienl degree lo be deluded hy ndmcnnircmcnL We arc tliero-
Ion jiuMod in conetuding, that tlie pnrti anterior ii> the loo of the frog
poueu icrj little rxpnni-ive power; and this theory, if eorreel, will agree
«i(h the i-xpcrimenti we have detailed. The CDic, howcrrr, in rety dillcrent
with (ha poMerior pnrti. The nnricular bonc^ ttc hnvc neeii, re>li on the
ftcior Miew, and the linvw u|iDn the elaitio ftog in lli« eenire, nnd on tho
comninure* and «ole on cuch tide, llieae comniiuurr* arc ihc hi|;hcii port
of the sole, and form, inilccd, a tort of a rld^ so thiit, at any iircivure on ihis
Htft must tend to llaECcn the ridge, it muit ron*ci]Ucnlly cxpnnd the foot.
whatever weight, then, is aupported by the nnvicnlnr joint must contribute to
ipaniion of the fool, — Spvoiur on thr Foot, tc.
304
DISEASES OF ttte IIORSt.
thcrebv pxpoBiiip; to view the sensible laminae, the naiund colour
of which IB red, uixl the voroiuiry sulMtoaec sbovr, whicb
wcrelcs ilic grenlcr part of tlw; ituhU
1'lic lower pan of Um; foot ia (liowa by Ag. 2., the homy parte
being remorcu, »o lu to exhibit the Kfuiblf aolv, frog, rikI tun,
the shape of which corresuond exactly with their lioniy cover-
ing*. 'Hk- piirtt, tlmtifrh larf^ly •iipplied with bloody arc m
iKt so nuTiilitr lu the laniinir. 'I'he twttoni of the horny loot
IB sliown ill f>s. I., |)agtf 007., where tl>e M>le, bnrs, and frog of
a ftood-ahajH'U foot in n naturol unjured state is nhown.
rigt, 3. «»d 4. rei)re*<!nt ilie bones of the foot nnd pculem
boili in front imd behind. The compact and siilid structure of
the ])it«(eriiK, anil the irri^iilar surface ami porous nature of tiie
colTui hiine are exhibited, but may be better uuderatoud by an
examiuHtian of the boites tlH-iiuelves.
Fig, 5. principally shows the singular nwnner in which one
flexor tendon funtu a sheath for aitoilier, thus permitting the
very f^at extent of motion these ])arl9 possess, without any
diminution of strength. 'I'he sheath thus formed is lubricaieo
wiih synovia, and thus any penetration or injury of the sheath
is a matter of great consequence, quite as much, indeed, as llut
of a joint, for inflammation of the most violent degree is likely
to follow, and there is danger of adhesion of the tendons taking
place. This plate also exhibits tlie manner in which the tendons
are lied down at the back of the fetlock, also the expansion of
the perforans lenilon as it passes over the navicular bone and is
inserted into the bottom of the coffin joint. The lateral earli*
lases are also clearly shown.
Fig. 6. exhibits the ligamenu underneath tlic flexor tendoni^
as well as the smooth surface al tlie beck of tlie usainoid bonet,
over which the tendons pass.
The J^oiithpiece is an iinportant figure, as exhibiting, by a
vertical front section, the situation and the natural colour of (li«
different parts of the foot and leg, and abo the mainur in which
the weight if supported. It shows the relative proi>ortion sup-
I ported by the coHin and ihe navicular bone, nod the manner in
which it i* distributed. TIic name* of tlie different parts are
given on the plate for (Iw convenience of reference. Tiie
various joints art^ di«phiyed witli their capsular ligaments, whicli,
in the nppcr joint, llw; fetlock, are particularly shown, bcii^
&ri»ed to admit the ron.iiderahle action which this joint pos*
Besses. The coffin joint is clearly distinguished from the navi*
eular joint capsule, the former being m front, and iIm latter
behind the navicular bone. The course of the back sinews i*
clearly exposed, as well as that of the suspensory ligament, and
the internal structure of the bones is developed, and tJ>c colour
of il»e various parts correctly given.
jnUVCTIIBE AND BCONOHT OF TIIR FOOT. HOA
Tlie lioof in»y be loparnted IVont llie tiilenml [xirlx either by
boiling, by aoakiiij^ in cold watt?r, or in lint dung ; Itiit ilic niiluriil
colour ot (lie parts ia altered by (his mciliod. Hie criitt may
be separated from the coffin Imne by |)iiiiin({ the font in « viev,
and tearing it off with pincers, first, however, M'mrntinir the
solo from llie crust by means of a drawing knit!', liy ihis plan,
lite natural colours of the lamintv are oIiom-ii, iwA ihi' leiiiirioiis
union between the horny and sen*tl>le laminiv iitrikiii<;ly proved.*
Tile external shape and appearance of tin* loot mn hr ninst
ivadily observed by an inspeclinn ol' the living font.
* For > fiirllier ili-Bcripliun o? timte ]>tirli thu rcudirr ix referred to n
" Treatise oh the Siriii-turt, Econum.v. anil ni»cn»M c>f the I'<kh nml \^g of
ihc llortc," by thr cililor of (hi* work, Troiii which the fullowiiiK briel' rnim-
ri)nry of the ipriii);ii "f the Iq; and foal i* oliLtincd. Wc hnvc tccn llint ihc
leg of tlie liorau b liiriiiiihcd with u vnst inimlii-r a( hc^uitM ijiriiig^ fur ili«
purpose of Mtnlin|> oS' coiicuisiuii. imd ihul llittie "priiigs >\tv montiy nitiinieil
Hi uic po»(crior pun of the limb. Fir*t wc hoic the •jilim lione*, which re-
ceive Wiine portion of (he >i(i|){rini-unihent weight, luiil wliii'h we ilo not liiid
ill oxen : then wc hnve Ihc nuflpcniorj ti](iimeiil, n »priiig of much giv.iter iiii-
|M>rtuiicc, nnd nhoiu: operation, wc hnve icvn, calends lo both I'eiluck utul
I'tuitvn joinli i next uc find the cliitlje eushion, on wlilcli the hiiiuII pimiern
rckCH, nnd whiclt. th<^ii);h iintiotii-eil liy |>liy»>(il<,>^iHI», h yel of inurh iinfiort>
ancc. Within the hoot' wc find the liornj nni) ecntttilc hiininic ciicndiug 40
cuniiilrrahl^' the «iirfiicc of conoection lietwccn llic hoof nnd eofliii botie, nnij
ftreiuly diiiiiniahinH. h) their cinscic conneelions m ncll ns hy ijiair rxEcnl of
Kurfnee. tli« cunciiMioii of the foot. We hnve, nUo, the Inleral nnd itifuiw
rariilneet, and the homy und eluslic frofi, thut nftbrdinu allogether n rollev-
tion of heaiitifiil niiptiraliH fur superior to nnv whicli ilic iiioa thilfot io^e*
ntiity nf mnn esn ilc^'i^c. All the !iiipcrin<iiriilK''ii weight liornc lioth liy iho
iij)lit)I bniiei nnd mispcniory liKamcnti nrc ngniii trnnnlirreil to ihe cininoii
tmie, «o tliiil ull [lie ueiglit of ewh limb ii iiiiipiirtcd by both piutcni bone
fklow lliit, however, provision i* iniidc not urily for r^idcrrng tniy the w\i-
non of the wrir;ht, hiit for tmnHl'ertiiiK 11 |>ortion of it to the ground witlinnc
Imtrinti on the extreme lionc. Ench Ibrei leg altrrnutel}' i^fats n wei](lit etftinl
to llic animal's entire flrnvily, nil whii'h )> Kiippnrced by the imnll pnitcrii
bone, and in thus dialrilnitcd to the pnrl* IjcIow. A nioJcrnte iirojiortion in
tint coiniminimied to the i^lnstic tiialiion. whence it n imprcwt'd on Xlw
Intcral nml infirior onriilngeii nnd pooterior p»ri of the frog. The reinniiider
being the prineipnl |>ortu>n in [roniifcri'iil to the niivieiilnr nnd eollin limiri, tlio
former of which, hj the inCerpiuitinn of the flexor tendon, henn nnrtlj on the
fVog and partly on tlic »iile : nnd the hiltrr. Iiy the intencntiun of the Inininie.
■HMtHhiiw il« weight to ihf [Timt Ihrou|[hoiil it9 wliole eirciimftrcnce, nnd a
very tlighl ponion of it is borne by the lole whii:h niuy or mny not bcnr ii|ion
th* ground. Thui, nl the *nmc moment, tlieic titrioiit neiion' ko on in the
foot. The colTia bone deicenil* lower Into die hoof, ihc luminie, hy ihrir
rlwtic connection*, ponniilin;; it. nnii the ncns.lilc tole in eoniiiresieil, nnd
perhi^M thtt horny oulc oppoiiie the calTin bone deocendx. Well, i|je liorny
*olo niid the niittrior pnrl ol' the fro;; o|>]iooite the nnviculnr bone itenecnd*
and cxpnnd"! the qimrters [lariillel to tlieni, whilst nt the inmc lime lh*!ilnsiic
or leniiblc fro)( Iwin^ eoiiipre>!icil. in forccil down n|M>n the homy frog nnd
coiitribulci to ihc npaiision of iho heels ; Init if the horny frog oKtlt the
ground, till.' eIl^llion licinji prc.isrd upon both iibove uiul below, enlnr^;et lule>
rally und eipund< the upper part of the fool and ItiternI cni'tiliige*'." — El>.
X
DisEJues or me horse.
CHAP. LIV,
on SUOKtHti AND TIIK MAKAOKUENT Of TMC FKET.
S<i niiirli )ia^ t>eoii siild q( late on the subjocl ufalKH'in^, itiid mi
have Ik*! I
>(llU'l.-(l
iiiariy ima^niarj' improve menu
have had d free iiilercourac with the Continent, tliat an iiM'x-
|H-rience(l |>eraon is naturally enough led to imagine that 11 b h
Very intricate art, and one thai re(|uires a ffreat denl of »tudy
mid rellection to be underatuod. But notwiilislaiidinf; the fiml
intention thiit has been paid to tJic subject during iIk- limt thirty
y^HtPH, it is rather (jue^lionuble wUeilH'r lametieu hox bf^iimt'
much lesA freciuent, or whether many real improvemenu* hmv
Ihtii made aince the time oftlK Iste Lord IV-mhiokc, wliopuli-
liaiied snme observations on shonng, llic utility of which has \xvn
connrnml by nearly lilly years' practice ofth? riHflbod lie rv
eomniends in tlie rcgiiiwnt of cavalry which be coinmHntU-di —
lite First, or Koyal Dragoons. The French »h<H* i» livid ti)>
by some as the standard of perfection, while olhrrH ibink that
the hinged shoe of Mr. Bi-acy Clark is inditjH'iisitbly lu-cceur)
to ihe preservation of ttie fool, and ca|>ablc alio of re^itoring il*
in a cerlaui degree, when injiire<l by utiier nio<)i's of ^iMieiiig;
for he considers all sltoes, exce])t thai which iulniile of M>n>e tiio-
lion in the hoof, by means of a hitige at tlit- to<>, to bt- injuriout
to the l«f!(, grudunlly, and aoinelinm v<-n,' slowly, briiming on a
contraction of the hoof, and the di«ciucs wht^h n-sull from such
coiiiractiuii. If ive coiiHifh-f the borvc as he stands at rest, w
ubeei'vt' that the fet-t are the busi* of tiK' whole body, and diot
it is deiirable that the whole of the lowvr circumference uf llii.-
fect should have a iK-iiring ii|iun the ground.
ItourgeUl, ill hi^ Kfwy on Shoring, liiys it down u« a
fiindamenlul law that the «boe should bo fitted to Ow Inxif.
und nut the hoof lu llii- eboo ; and this law hu& Ikvii adiuiiled
by all HUcceedln;; veteriiifirian!'; first, as it regards llu' Kiot in
a sound healthy slate, and likewise when defective or de-
formed. NotwiilibUnding this ugroeiiiciit with rm>cct lo ibc
fundamental law of shueitif;, lliere has been a consiucrablc dif-
ference of opinion -v^ to the practice of slioeiiig, cneb |any
bringing forward plausible arguments in delence of hU fiivourilr
nietbod. it has always upjH-arod to mc that it is ilcatralilt'
to reduce lhii< useful art to as great a degree uf siinpticilv
as )K»4ible; and to attain this desirable object, we eannoi. 1
think, choose a better fjuide than Natiiw. I^i un take a vivw
of the horse iheii that has never been sIhkI, and oltM-rve in wliul
inaiuier the foot bears on tbe ground. We situll then find ttuil
the outer edge of the bottom of ibe foot, named the wall, or
r
MIOKIKU AKU TIIK MANAUeMENT OF THE FKET. HOI
crtistf formt a Urge portion of a circle, as in the annexed %un>,
and liiat the deficiency in this circle it
filled u[» by the frog. If we look nl the
foot as it stands on a flat aurface, we
shall find that every part of the ex-
ternal portion of tho circle is in cnntnot
with ihefrround; I think, therefore, that
this should be considered as the natnral
bcarinc of the lioof, as the homy K>le
which lies within this circle is mthcr
— , „ „ , ., concave, or hollow, so that it receives
y^^ ' no bearing when the horse stands on a
an,Tiiclh9g. iilain hard surface. Sometimes the frog
b ft. 'Iiw Uhh. 19 sii6Bciently prominent to take a part in
ii Ttat^ofwmi. '^''* Iwaring; more frequently, however,
it is olticrwise, »o that neither the sole nor
the frog has any bearing unless the horse stands on soft ground,
which allows the outer part, or crust to
sink sufficiently into il. From this view
of the foot il is obvious 1 think, that,
having rasped the bottom of the foot, d^
to a level snrfaee, there can be no diffi-
culty in covering it with a circular |iiece
of iron, of sufficient widtli niid tliickni-vs
to have nail holes punched in il, nx well
(..-.,.. as to resist the lu'essiire and blow* to
Fig. i. tint* S*iK. , . , . . 'i
-. TI.C ,T«un.! ™rfkc -1.1, *'»?'"'"' «''P»^«''- , , .. ,
UiB la/g« countvr-iunk Now let US see how lar (lie l<n-nch
noil tuIcK . method of shoeing, so highly extolled by
'"*.Vitir:;:L«: *■'"'■ *«"•'' "^-'gli-h veterinarians,- is conform-
& ft. n^prawau tba gtaandor fible to the law i>o universally adniitlc<l.
curvaioM. BDit They direct iht; smith to alter this
" "-i -°:.:trdt:x r^-'"^ ^r ■■? "'/''-• ""«■.•■ '^'■^''- «"■ '[•«
butiMin of the hoof, by paring away the
^Mfc horn at the toe and the heel, tintit it is
^^fll^L brought to the form n-preseiiled in tho
^^^^^^^ diagram, and then forge a shoe of a sinii-
^^^^^^^P^j lar form. I have given (lH^ outline view
^^^H^^^Ak of the hoof, with a ihoe nltached to it,
^^^B^ ' d from M. Janzf's view of a jier-
^^^^^|k|^^^ !<■' lU :ihod foot. 'I'lie qncKtion then, with
' ^^^^M^^^- ri'gard lo the French shoeing, is, whe-
'^^/v.V^l'^-.It ''- =' i* OouformaW.. or not to the fun-
timtivH at tiu i^i o-ui it/i, daniental law which Boiirgvliii, the great
'*»'^ "•**«' ^foundw of veterinary schools, has laid
down.
An outline view of a hoof shod in the French manner
X 3
906
OISEASRS or TUE II0II9R.
js given in fig. % : lig. 3. is the Frencli sIiop. Boufj^lnt dlrfcu
titat lliiB cun'ature, or boat-like form, in lliv AiW, sliould Iw in
llie fullowin^ |>ro])Driion : —
Tho ciirvntiire in llic brancii, or side oI'iIh' »Imm\ in (o be^n
at llio si-cond nail hole from llic heel ; iind (he curvature it to
he tiich, (hat the tooof tlieshoeehoukl be rai^xl nl»vi*the beur-
iiij; part (that is, tlic lowest part, which is to brnr on the ground).
a distance equal to twiw tttc ibickncis of llie iihn«, and tlist
from (he bearing part to (he heel the slioe «houM gradually
rile M that nt the extremity i( is TBi*ed Troni Uie ground a
diKtiuice e<jiinl to Imlf ihc thickness of the *hoe.* Thns accord-
inj; In (Ik- French melliod, as a welUfbod lior** stands on tlie
ground lite feet have only a partial bearing. M. Janze, wiio
has published a large quarto volume on shwiing, with numeroin
plates, difitrs a little from M. IlonrgeUtwith respect lo diedegrw
«r curvature, or ilie ajmliirr of the sliw, as thi-y term it, but not
materially : but both tlirect the kImx- (« be ma<ie concave, or hol-
tow, on (hilt »iirfiice which is in conttict with the Iwitom of tlie
foot, and convex, or prctjecling, on (he surliice which rests on llie
ground, ao (hat llu-y R-sembleoiu" half of a walnui'shell, witti »
hole cut in ihe centre, for they make the shoe very wid*?, «> a*
to cover a gi-eat dwil of the bottom of the foot.
Mr. Ouutlwiti, in hi* new sj-stem of shoeing, g>TM an explan-
ation of tile advantages anting from the curved, or Freoch
shoe. " If we refei'," he siiys " lo tlw action of the fi>re leg, it
will UMid to explain some ol' ihc advantages lo be derived irom
lliG curved shoe. When a borsc is about to move, the (int in-
(Iictiiion of motion is a bend at (he knee, which n<.-ce«.sanly raises
the heels, and they become more and more elevatt-d, till the toe
(which is the last part tliat leaves the ground) is si»>ix,-nded for
the moment that the foot is lifted. The base of the ftH>[. ju«l nt
its leaving the ground, is almost perpendicular: wIh'ii the knee
is bent to its fullest extent, ihe fool is then In the same jmsition.
»vith the heels of the shoe pointin>t upwards. If wo consider
thiii fir^t pint of ihe motion of the limb, we find tin* movement
of llie toot very nearly describes a semicircle ; and on viewing
the form nf ilie joints connected with action, ihe necessity for a
curve at the toe is clearly demonstrated : again, -the fomi of the
sitoe worn out a( once shows that it must be moix^ stiiiable lo
put on a new otiu of that form, rather than to suffer the action
of iIh' leg to l>c opposed un(il it is worn to that form. In tlic
tecond part of the action, when the fool comi-s to the ground
af^in, the quarters and hei-ls touch first, and tln-y are the only
pans occupied in placing it on the ground again. I'bere iiiay
be deviati<;iis from this general rule, as in those horses that have
* The (onrctity of the undur Kurfnco of tiic slioo is equali to ooc atul n Iislf
tlmca kt thirkness.
SHoeiNO AND THE MANA(JF.MCNr OF THE FEET.
309
had action ; also when Iiorsn arc drawin}; lieavy woif^biH it niust
iicccsianly diflVr. The fore leg* may be coiiaidered simply as
pillars of stinjwrt, liaviiig no power of themselrm to propel the
body forward, progretsioii being entirely [leHbrmcd by the liind
Cru. if it were noc so, llie iietioii would be dilfcrent, lu I
ve bi-fore observed it to be in those horses that have greai
weij^his to draw; and this may be more readily otiserved in any
draught horse going np hill. I liave oJteied these few remarks
Ujion action in order to bring the i-eader'* attention to ilie curve
ot ttw French shoe at the toe. 'i'his form of &lioe cerlainly liar-
moniitn more with the motion of the fore foot than the EnglisJi
does; it affords a greaier surface of bearing at the toe than the
projecting ridge of the straight ordinary shoe, and is much more
catciilated to allow of the motion of the leg and foot ; the labonr
of llie muscles is also dimininhed, and the limb being in its na-
tural potilion, ihe hgaments have less imjwsed upon tlieni ; they
are more at ease, and consequently are not so liable to bo
strained. The sitape of the coffin hone is also another proof of
ihe Fn-neii svslem iK-ing more consistent with the jirinciplcs of
nature than the straight otdinnrv shoe. If the cottiii bone of a
fore Rjot bi- placed on a level surli^ce. the quarters and hri-U are
Uie only parts in contact with it, which proves thai they aie in-
tended by nature to meet the ground first (quKi-e, why the cur-
vature of the heel of the shoe then ?) and Co bear tlie greater
proiwriion of weight ; but if the (piarters of the hoof be removed
(lowen-d, or dimintslied) to admit of die straight »hoc, ilic por-
tion of weight intended to be borne on the (pinrtcre nnm be
thrown upon the heels; and hence the t/rcat mitc/iiff vi\uch
ensiles from the common (plain) English shoe." I peifi-ctly
asrec with Mr, Goodwin as to the "decided su|teriority " of the
Irench method of nailing on the shoes; but the curvatuiv »f
the I'Vench shoe toward the heels is certainly contrary both to
his own principles and practice, for he expressly tclU ns in the
foregoing quotation that the quarters and heels niv intended by
nature to meet the ground fnst : and the plate of his iinprovi-d
Firncli mIioc shows that he disapproves of the French curvniure
towards llio heels.
tluving given what I consider a sufficient de*ciiption of the
French sJioe, I shall make a short remark on Mr, (Goodwin's
iinprorcmeni, which consists in making the qiiarters and heels
on a le\el, and the reverse of the Frcncli wlioe with regard to its
surfncc«; that is, Mr. G. dir«*cti! the foot surliice to be co»\ex,
nnd the ground surlitce concave. Tliis form of the fool surface
appear* to nie to originate Jn a very absurd notion with regard
to the foot : it wiik thought that, by making the surface on which
the foot re^U incline or slope u little inwanls the outer edge, it
would promote the expansion or spreading of tlie hoof, or at all
X 3
310
DISEASES OF THE DORSE.
•wnu prevent that niucb-dreadecl evil, contraction. This notion,
1 Mievc, U ^llacioiis; both expansion and contraction moM
be [nvvonted by the nails, as far as ihey go ; and if aJiy motion
takes place in the horn that is confinml bv them, it must be either
from a bending of the naila or from their boeomitig loose in llu-ir
■itnalions. This notion of expandinK the (]nBrt«rs and heel*, liy
making tlmt part of the shoe on whicli they rest slope outwardt,
is not only *ery old, but also very foolish, in my opinion, aitd
requires only an exatiiinaiion of the foot, and a liltiv n-Hectinn,
to appear so.
wIk-o the hoof becomes hot and dry, and conjetpicnlly slirink*
or contracts, tliat contraction is getH-rnl, but IhIm-s phtLV princi-
pally in those pans wImtv there is least rcsisianco, thai is, at tlie
heels and quarlei's, and at llie tippi-r circle of tin* hool^ or coro-
narv band.
This contraction of llio heels and coronary Imnd nuui com-
press, and give pain to the si>iisihle ]Kiris iiiid«-rn<-iith, rx|H>ciii)ly
in trolling. The great merit of llii- French slioo CoiiNii>ls in its
phicing DO n-strainl upon tlie necessary niotiona nf thi> lioof;
thvrc arc no nails in the heels, or in tlie movMble |>ans of the
quarters: and instead of making t lie nail- Imlrc nmr ilio outer
cdgv- of the shoe, (hey are placed nearer the cenin*. ami inclining
a Utile outward, so ilmt the nails arc drii-eii tlimugh ibe lower
' and sirongiT purl uf'tbc hoof, where iImtc h no danger of their
wounding or coinpivsning tliescn«ibk-)<iart«.
LjtfoMO, who was cotemporary with Iloiirgelat, ninl who
ereiitly distinguished himselli not only as a veterinary writeT*
util ns n practttiom-r of the art in all its briuieliett, givi-s a dp-
scripiion of the shoe he recommends for a sound foot, which is
the once celebrateil half-inoon shoe, litis shoe ■ann toon after
strongly recommended hy Mr. Osmcr, an eminrtit veterinary
practitioner and author, of this country. For good feet, he says
the xhort shoe is the best; it thimhl be made gradually thinner
from the toe to the extremities, and so short that Imih lite hceU
and the frog may Iwar on the gmiiml. Very liiilo covt-r or
width in [M'riiiiiied, het:nii«e the sole, llwt frog, and the heels are
never to be [liired, being with thii iiIkk- fX|>on'd lo the pressure
and frieiioii of the ground, which is siilhcieni to wear awev
wliatever is superfluous. Tliere is something in this ithne whicn
strongly recommend* it to every one who studies tl»e structure
and economy of the burse's foot ; yet it has not been found to
answer in general practice. Our worthy and truly eminent
Professor, Mr, C^>lcnian, was strtiek with the merit of this shoe,
and tltoHght he had 8iiccee<ied in obviating the only incon-
venience tliat belonged to it, wliich was leaving the heels up*
covered, and thereby exposing them, especially in wet weaiber,
to more wear than tliey cotild bear. lie, like Lafosse, siroiigly
SHOEINQ /IVO THE MANAGEMENT OF THE FEET. :H I
pointed out the necessity of applying it to tlie healthy foot only ;
and went still farther in showing the danger of applying it
suddenly, and without suitable precautions, to the foot of a horse
accustomed to wear thick-heeled shoes. He considered some
degree of bearing on the frog necessary to the health of the foot,
and that it serves also as a spring, and as a stop, to the animal
in his various motions. He found, however, that by leaving the
lieels uncovered they were often worn down too much, especially
in wet weather; therefore he extended the iron covering, or
shoe, to the whole of the crust, that is, from the toe to the
heels.
Mr. Coleman's thin-heeled sliue, as it was termed, was flat on
llie foot surface, and concave on the ground surface. If the
sole was not concave, or hollow enough to admit of a flat shoe
of moderate width resting on it, it was pared out sufficiently
witli the drawing knife; and if the sole was too thin to allow of
this being done, the foot surface of the shoe was made concave,
and the ground surfitce flat. The shoe was made of the usual,
that is, of a moderate, thickness at the toe, and became gradnally
thinner towards the heels, and in such a degree, that the toe
was three times thicker than the heels. The principal pre-
caution to be observed in applying this shoe was to pare away
from the toe of the hoof as much as would make up the dif-
ference between the thickness of the toe and the heel of the
shoe, and thereby prevent too much pressure upon the great
tendon of the foot and navicular joint ; and if the heels of the hoof
were unusually high, so as to raise the frog considerably from
the ground, ihcy were to be towered very gradually, removing
only a small portion of the horn nt each time of shoeing, until
the frog had a bearing on the ground.
This shoe was tried in the army, and found frequently to
occasion lameness. The principal trial was made in the Royal
Artillery, and I had an opportimity of witnessing the effect of it
at two different periods. About twenty-three years since, when
I was in the Royal Dragoons, and quartered at Canterbury, I
was desired by Mr. Coleman to examine several horses of the
Royal Artillery, in that garrison, that wore said lo lie lame from
wearing the thin-heeled shoe. I did so, and was of opinion that
the report was well-founded : therefore I directed the common
shoe to be applied, and to keep the feet moist, and at rest for n
short time, or until the lameness was removed. A few years
after this, veterinary surgeons were appointed to the artillery
corps, and then, I believe, the thin-heeled shoe was found to
answer better; for when I resided at Exeter, the veterinary
aurgeon of the artillery quartered iii that district was transferred
to another station, and I was employed by the Board of Ord-
nance lo attend the hoi-ses in that capacity; when I found that
X 4
312
niBEAses or the uohbe.
Mr. Culeiiian'e shoe, botli I'ui- tlw furc and liiiul ftm, had Imiii
■•iii|ilo)'cd several yean, and timt no tiicotivcniciice luwl n~
siiU«i from it J oil ihc contrary, I never saw u corps of liortm
will) liflter fwL Tiieir work was regular, and very modfritiv
{'hi«lly nalkiiig. and in luirnv&s. It scitnt lo Ik> h ^■iiera) opi-
nion will) Englisl) vctt^rinan' surK<-oti^ of iIh- piirK-nt liino, tiiM
tl)o ihin-lict'lnl &hoc- is not nl lor Knf;lis)i lioi'M'S) uiid cX|>eririK-(.-
)iu» sliowii llial no rIh>c wliutevvr will niatiTially diiiiininli itii-
laHH-niabk' fn-i|ucncy of incurnblc lamvm-«» in tiii-t conniry wMli-
such liicility t» i;ivcit to rapid intvrlliiig by »moo(li inrn]>ik(-
rooda.
1 sliall tuiy iiolliiiif; lii-iv of lite vuriuiii contrivatKies ttul )»«<-
&lKx-n propuM-tl for oKpanding conir»ct<tl lioof*, and for prcvitil-
iiit; conlruclion, i-xcu-pl lliat llivv Iwve all b»Mt fairly tried, ami
found dllirr iiM'li.'wt or Inirlful ; but proceed to aii exnminatioii
of Mr. Bracy Clark'* kIioc, wliicli liait of late found so inany
xculuiis udvoeaii.-». If it la fiHiiid, after a lair trial, that tint
kIioi-, wliicli i»uHll«-d ilie fxpitiidiiij; niu'l i.iblel i>lioo, will eiilicr
tM tar iiiiprovf ii Ikij-m-'x feot lu to rdii-ve liiiii f'roni lani«ne«s, of
MWblv 11 liortie lo ^^o hi-iter titan lie can in ajiy ollter kind of
slioC) then tlie only objection thai caii be made lo it it ihc
pi'ice, which 1 iindtTiUuid is half a crown for each shoe; and
this, would Ih' uti uiiriiosotuiblc ottjeclion, hccauec the bIioc woiikl
!k' Luiwhlc of doin^ "lull no other bhoc can. Tlic |)erulijr
|>rint-ii)le uf the shoe consists in u Joint at the toe, so con^inirli^i
a^ lo iidniil of a limiled and »ninll de^ti^i^ "^ motion txiwecn ilic
two brandies of ihe shoe. I have already said ihal 1 do not
Kif- t- Thi- tkUHMi^fii flmitith Shin u«a/fy
i\. 3- .1 i.:>y«i su,.
■>, .\ >l«i'l liii;( li; wlikli tilt' ivro tiruLicbnuT llKliiii|(tiltllli« M« IikM Hgrthir.
t-, Tl'i" TiM/t ilvUclii-il fi'iin «tii> \limv
itiink llie various dt-^^-en of cbronic laineuesi, which an now no
Joodly and jiutly etunplained of, nii; caused hy l<ad ^ho^■iug ; nur
Jo I ihink that aiiy mode of Ahm-tii<! will cuiy^'thein. In making
ftiiis assertion, however, I wish lo he niidcniood riearlv : in (hose
[elimnic lamenesses, I do nol iitehide corns, or hrn !.'<(■« of the fwt
from (he shoe beariiii: innnoperly, or rrom Ihc iimiIs Iwint; c-f a
SIIOEtNO AMD Till! MAKAOKMRKT OF TIIK rCKT. 313
heA rdrni or >!«■, or from boiti^ drivui iini>ro|K-rl)-. IT 1 riglitly
iimlpi'slantl Mr. IlnK-y Clark, )ic U n( opiuiim thai all the hIiocs
hitliiTto finiiloytd, t-xcppt liis, nuisi incviialtly iirothice con*
irai-lioii, by ilw- roiraiiit ilicy im|iosit ti|)iiii llic clai-ttc pnru of
(lie hooj'. ill (lirn-l jnourol' lliii, li<- Itrin^M roiwaitl » Tfu cx-
pt'riiiK-iils ; iitid, ill .^iippiii t of Ui% ojiliiioti, Ik- ai'):;ii<-N with frrvat
Ultriiiiig, M'al, uiid iii^t-iiiiiiy ; nlili he I'liiiiiiil ^et iivor ihj.v piaii)
nialU-r of lUcl, tliut tlip [ilaiti IJif^liali bIiw, niirli un I .iliall lU'XL
(k-Mfibe, liiL» brcii einjiloyeil in a i'i'}{iiiient of cavalry tcir lU'nrly
fif'ly yvans without ))rodiicing thf elltrl ^eiuTnlly. ur in any df-
•{tee nolivcabk-, iluit he has iiwrrihed to ii. When 1 wo.s a|ipiiiiii(-(l
Vcuriiuiry Siiigeiin to the Itojal Drajjoona, I wailcii ii|iiiii
<jeiioii*l tJoliisworlhy, ihe cunnnaiulin^ oHicur, who adviHtd nie
iiot lu make any alienttiun in the- xhociii;!, as iho nielhod ihey
liractisetl) wliic-lt hud \>e^n inirodtici-d by his predccossor, Lord
I'finbroke, had been round to unswcr cumplctciy. I coniinued
in tlic rcffinieni st-ven years, and found t1ial this was really the
case. When 1 was last at Exeter, thai is, in Juno I8-i-^, some
part of the regiment was ((nartcred there, and. upon inquiry, ]
louad ihat llioy Etill shui'd in tlic tame niaitiier, and nilh the
same effect. As Lord IVinbrohe'a work is out of print, and
liorha[>a ralltcr scarc-e, 1 trust it will not tie an unarceptable ad-
dition to this small volume, if 1 imnscrib'- the most iiilerct)linf(
[Mrt of it, and introdnce such remarks as may appear to me
useful.
" Physic and a bulteris,'' his Loidship says, " Jn well-informed
Iiuicb would not be fatal; but in (he manner we are now (1776)
provided with farriers, ihey must be quite banished. Whoever
leU his farrier, coachman, or groom ever even mention anything
more than water gruel, a clyster, or a little bleeding, anil that
too very seldom, or pretend lo talk of the nature of feet, of The
&cat of lamencMet^, sicknesses, or tlieir cures, may be certain lo
lid iheniBcivcs very sliorily and very absurdly quite on fool."
The iimrunient named the dmwiiig knife is generally ent-
ployetl to remove what appears to \tc Miiperfliious in the lioof it
Jlic lime the horse is brought lu be sliocd. The mischief that is
"one by paring llefoot iniproin-rly is of two kinds. If loomncb
orn be piuvd fntm the i^olc, il will bi- iiifapable of ilvfeiiding titc
tiKibie or fl«liy sole ; and if the bain or frog aiv iiii])ro|KTly
r«l, we renjove parts whitb iiru designed to prevent a coti-
roction of the heeU.
Making a groove (fullering) rotunl the edges of Aniv*, if
flbe iron i» not very good, may ciiiiMV a partliit vichling there;
bill) if the iron ix good, a groove i» very u^fnl Ik proleel the
liea'Uof the iiaiU. h'itrriern Hhmild alwa,i|> e>:.imin« a fool be-
fore they kIioc it, make the shoe, and pierce the holes for the
•JMiiU further from or iiesirer tu, the edgei of the foot accordingly'
w
314-
mtrns OP Tiir noKsc
as tlicy RnA ilie Toot rrquins; tlic holes for the nnits slioulil
alwB)-s be picrccti slaiuiiif^ rntl>er outwards. T)»r boat vny to
form* shoes, in mjteci to the nails, is to make ihe holes Tor lli«
LnaiTs at twice, witli two chfTcreiit iiistninicnts. First, on ihr
FtMlIsitte of the shoe, |iuiich a |>lace, iwt quite through (he »lio«>,
bi;{ enough to receive aixl cover the head oftlie nail when drirni
in; next nuneh n smaller holo from the centre of ll»e aliovf
iiieitlionra larger one, for the blade of t)»e nail, quite lhrou)^i
I ho shoo.
This method of pnncliinj; the naiUhoIvs, with il»e remarks on
the groove or fulloriii;; mtniil the slioe, do not differ materially
from that now a(ln|)le<l at the Vcterinarv College, or from Mr.
Cloodwin's n>marks upon it, who snyn, " Tlio ubjecl of tins grcmre
or fullering is lo receive the nail lirads, but in gt-itenil it is too
SHpcrficifil for this piirpnee; when a eountenintc Im^ Is VMit,
the groove is inaiU' deejwr ; but the inner eitge of llu- gro«>ve is
|ici|M-ndicit1ar, and llie outer edgi- Kh>[K-s towards the i-xlerinr
ritit In ffivc iIk< edjre of iht- nail a olnnling ilireelioii inwiird. Il
is co»«iden-«l that tlH- smith, who can k<f[> l\m grtiore ncni'c^t
lu Ihe edge of the ehoe is the best workman, and it is deno-
ininnted miefnlhi-ing. If thb groove is out deeji into the ohw,
it i* 4-vi(k-nt il must weuken it ; and if iIk- iron h not f^xU il
L will crack in the nnier edgw of the fuller ; and, if it is «n|)er-
I ficial, it ittl()i<dN no M-curtiy to the IhwI of the nail ; yet, if mndn
with accnraey, and deep eimngh to afford si-cnriiy to the Itnid of
the nail, it is a tedious process, and tak<<s up much lime. 'I1te
fidlcr, or groove, has beeti recently alt«r«l at the Velerina«7
College: it is now carried furtlMt into ihc shoe, ami is similar
lo iho German method of making llie groove, which gives an
advnn(ni,'e in taking more hold, by driving the nati throuj^h a
tNirlion of die mIc on the inside of the eru«t, :>imiLir to t)te
''rench metliod of nailing.
" If liie oualily of the iron is not good, it will U' |mt to ihr te«l
by ihi> appheiitinn of the punch ; it will eitlter hurvt on titeonti'r
part of the hole^ or cracks or ftawM will lie »een; neither of
whicli will iip]>enr if the iron \» good." [OiMuhrin's Wr«r Syttrm
afShoeimjlhir^ji.) \ ciuinot lefive Mr. (lood viii wilhmiC no-
ticing a remark liv has miule on nn opinion of Mr. Itmry Clark,
in wiitch I )M<rfect1y Hgroe with him. " Mr. n. Clark prefers
tJic common lo lite connterMink liend, lielieving that it Ictvri a
decree ofroum Intifien the sfwnlilrr of it naU aiut th* x/ine fvr ihe
BXt'ANSioN OF TiiK iiooi'. I conlvits I shiuitd not like 1u eoin-
nicnce a joiinic)' if ili«rc wim any play between the shun and ihe
hoof; an it must lie quite nXvax lliAi, under such ei re nui stances,
a shoe could not remain on long. In tlio tnilnl shoo there is
not lltat strain on tlic nail* and tn iIh' cliiiches lluit there ta in
f/ie comiiMHi (linllow or coooave liwl siirfiMc, like the French}
I
aaOEIHQ AHS TBE MANAGEMENT OF THE FEET. 315
shoe ; for the crust, instead of bearing on an edge, bears on a
flat surface."
There is but little difficulty in adapting a shoe to a sound
foot ; that is, a foot that has a sound well-formed frog, open
heels, good bars, strong and rather concave sole, and a strong
well-formed crust or wall. To such foot, the best shoe that can
possibly be applied is that which has for many years been cm-
ployed in the Royal Dragoons. I may have made some devia-
tion from the form which was employed, and so may others ; but
the following is tliat which I now recommend. The shoe should
be from half an inch to five eighths of an inch thick, all round
from toe to heel, and of the same width, except at the heel,
where it should be three fourths of an inch wide. The nail holes
should be made somewhat similar to those of
the French shoe, and the nails driven in a
similar direction. When a foot deviates from
the sound form, the shoe must be shaped ac-
cordingly. If the sole is in any degree flat
and thin, the wide hollow shoe is a&olutely
U«" > necessary.*
'Ut^nj^t'^, if tl'e heels are tender, and have corns, the
in order to bear bar ahoe IS the best that can be applied : and the
upon the frog. tender heel, including part of the quarter, crust
as well as sole, should be so pared down as to be at tlie dig-
* No general rule am be lud down oi to either Ihc weight of the shoe or
its width, it must depend on the wear, the nature of the foot, and that of the
woric of the horse. Saddle horses require narrower shoes than hameiis
horses, and [nrticularly if they are used for hunting. The purpose of wide
■hoes is to protect the sole and to diminish concussion ; they are therefore
necessary toeflTect the former object in flat feet, and also for the latter pur-
pose on the road.
Tiu Leather Sole. — For weak feet the leather sole is found particularly
■ueful. It is thus described in my work on the " Foot and Leg of the
Horse :" — "It consisti of a piece of leather cut exactly the shape of the shoe,
covering the sole and frog, and applied between the foot and shoe. In the
af^icatUKi of the sole it is requisite, first, to soak it in water a short time, in
order to render it more elastic and softer, and to apply a stopping to the sole
■o disposed as to fill up the vacancies between the bar and frog, bo as to pre-
vent any gravel or dirt penetrating. The stopping we have found best adapted
and most convenient, is composed of two parts of tar and one of fat
mdted together, and applied on tow. Borne little tact b required in dis>
posing the low so as to fill up the vacancies we have mentioned. The sd-
vmntages of the leather thus applied are manifold. It diminishes concussion
in a considerable degree by its interposition between the iron and the foot.
It preserves the elasticity and stimulates the growth of the sole, at the same
time that :t protects it from the efTcct of naila and sharp flints. It preserves
the frog likewise from injury and irom undue moisture, the source of thmaheg.
It strengthens the crust in weak feet, particularly at the quarters and heels ;
and aSwds to the sole and [rag, when the surfsre of the ground is the least
irregular, that moderate degree of pressure which it meets with in a stale of
nature."— Ed].
316
DtSBltssB or me hobsk.
tance of a quarter of an incli or more ffx>in tlie oorrc«i>on<ling
part of tltc sJwM'."
In preparitif tht foot tortile «lioe^ the /oatf parts only of the sole
• THi- imihteral Skof. — The next great imiirovciociit in ilic »n, and oftc
which, in jiiilice to id i»criti, we muki churiKtn'iM' as (bn moat imiximiit
hitherto nMirad, consiali in ■ppljiiu tbo MiiU round ibe toe. Bad oo t^e
ouuiji; iiimrl^r, but leaving the IntU* quarter unfellcrcd. Tbe wlvaaUcrt
'\P I. Mr. nnur-i Si*r <.|M iLhy
tAimfliis rir naif Mit am ti* DWtiVr,
amf riFO Duly M Mr f«iifi, ijftlu Iv.
Ft|^^. Mr. TVnrr-* Mm «arfC|b< AaW^
OH iHldiYi.iu/ miil na ikt Itntl4r, and »i
of ihin iiiethoil iiiuv be ruulilj nocn. Th« Toot, »« hare Itxn, cx[i«nd(,i
uu^hi to ckpnnil. ulicinuvcr it coiun on iho graiuiij i mxl ihii cxfNinnoii'
grniicM nt tttc heel* itni] qiurirr*. If, liicmore, ibe a>ib on oae Mt he
rcmoTed, lo that ihow on ibc oilier hnre no oMaeoniitB, lh« aame vAct will
lie pruduceJ lu if they were removed on either ii(ic,an the onic prioriplc ■»
11 cuiiiuivci vice uiiemtct, out ftidu being movintiLe nnd the other fucit. A
tihocon thi( princinle hu brrn npplinl lor inaaj')«ar* for CMeaof cutting, the
naila bcinn mnovod (torn the inxidc (tiinrtcr for ihi« purnotc onlv : nod it wt*
from witiiMiring the «flect ol' thii thoc in n contrwted RfOt, tlii>u|h ^qilwij
far culling only, (bat Gnt iiidiiccl Mr. Jamci Turner lo tccommrDd iu pvf
rsl application. Tliv merit hi'Ioagiiig Co tlti* nhoc i>, ibercforc, due to f~
Turner (guitu m miicli iii if he wait iu uriuinul inventor ; Hi»d the author
fleets Willi |ile»«ure, (hat he wni one of the ficM lo ttivt llx (ilan a trial. I
the very Aral, nftrr Mr. Turner, lo mnkc iu mcril* known lo the public, ft
H'oulil be well, (>crliu|iB, lu describe ihe shov which 1 make utc of, a* it ii >
r al'islit inodificnlion ol llial u^ed by Mr. Turner, ll i>, iheo, ■ seatcil ihfT,
t VilhlbelUt purl ntlher wider ihnn mninion. The vttb of the tfaoefor n mode-
ntc-*iled honu^ used on tlie riMid, ii about nii inch ui width, but tHryinf*
■cconltng to circumBtBiicc". uiid bein;- niirtouer at the liccli, where the upfwr
wearing Hirrecv i« very ■li^luly bevolind outwnrds thun ta the other paiut
tlic ground curfiirr ijuiio lint, somvt'tiicn lullcrtd mid *i>nirtiuie» aiiuiijiedi
but when the fonncr nhm i^ udoplcil, llic fuller a nut >ietp. or too near ibc
[silice, but soniewhnt widi-r Ihiin ciiinmon. Tliree niiili ate kUinped on Ihv
luMiio toe and five on ibu utiliiide lue vid <[uurier>>, with s eltp at tin: lor.aml
unolhcr 01 ihc outer iiimrter, Soini'times instvad of a cli|i at llie toe, tbc
«)ioe iit turned u|i in Uic i'Venrh fiuhion, ■■ rccomtnendnl by Mr.<ioodwiiii
tilts plan it Tcry nclmnta^uii where horncs ore tii the hnUl of biilliiji the
ktou ni)d tripping, or wearing it in uinlue proporlion. In conlraelcil feri. the
Up(iUnitioii of iliii tlioc lin* iniitcriuMy onlurged llit' foot, (|uite *a iinicii at
Lit I* ilciiinble lo do ; indeed, 1 brlieic, if it were nppUeil early, coulracicd
ucet would be altogellicr avoided. Ii a alio oalculaicd, in great mtttiurr, to
Prevent corns, from bearing m> en«y on the inside heel.
r In wide lint feet, niile nailiiiB is iinnccemHrT i ifacre it no ilaiigtr of cou-
I trAoiioo tnkiojE pliicc in lliit dc«eriplii>n of twt, for ib^ bava ratber a im-
denc}' to expand loo much.
SHOEING AND THE HAKAOEHENT OF THE FEET. 317
may be removed with the drawing knife ; the ragged parts of the
fr<^ should be cut away, as they may serve to narbour dirt or
gravel. If the toe of the frog is very hard and more prominent
than the other parts, it should be pared down moderately. Tlie
heel of the shoe should have a perfectly flat and level bearing
upon (he junction of the bar and crust, which should be rasped
to a flat surface for receiving it. The shoe should never ex-
tend beyond this parL The wbolc boltom of the foot, indeed,
should be rasped so as to be perfectly flat and level all around;
so that when the horse stands on a plane surface, every part of
the crust should bear on that surface. The shoe should be made
level also on both surfaces, by the same crilerion, and then it
must of necessity be fitted to the foot. When this is the case,
there will not be that motion in the shoe in travelling by which
so many shining sur&ces are often worn in it, and by which the
nails are loosened, and if they are made of indifferent iron, or
badly made, often broken.
The hind shoes should be narrower than the fore ones, and
mode square, as it is termed, at the toe, for the space of one inch.
By making the shoe aa well as the hoof square at tlie toe, a
steady point of bearing is afforded to that part which is the last
to leave the ground. We may readily conceive that as this is
the part from which those amazing bounds are made, in gallop-
ing and leaping, a more steady and Arm point of bearing will
be thus afforded, than by the single point which a perfectly
round shoe would give. They are less liable also than the round
shoe to interfere with the fore shoe. The heels should never be
turned up for saddle horses unless it is in frosty slippery weather,
and then it is an evil that must be submitted to.
Fc»' hunting the ihoe must be narrowH than for the road, and an additional
nail may be placed on Cbe inaide ; no evil wilt result from this, because in the
field the pressure on the crust is, in a great degree, relieved bv the sole and
frog. There mu^t be space for a picker to pass between the foot and inner
fim of the shoe, but no more, as the foot can then be withdrawn from heavy
noil with leas difficulty than when the usual space is permitted. To avoid
overreaching, the heels of the fore shoes should scarcely project beyond the
heels of the crust, and they should be rounded off, instead of being left
■quare, as is usually the case. The hind shoes bhould also, where there is
any disposition to overresch, be square at the toe, set a little within the
Croat; and the inner rim at the toe should have a piece cut out, bo thai, in-
■tead of a sharp edge, there should be a rounded surface, which, of coune, is
not so likely to catch the heels of the fore feet. — Spooner on tie Foot,^c,
31 d
DISEASES OF TUB HORSE.
CHAP. LV, *
- INJURIKA CONNRCTED VITH BHOEISQ, AND WOUNDS OF TOK
W FOOT.
These McWenls moet comniouty arise from the carelessness of
the Hmilh in nailing tlir tthoe to ihe lioof. Ttte nail is citluT
driven so as lo uound the sensible parlSi or so near ihem, os to
occasion, by its prepare, jwin, inflammalion, and in a fuw daj-s,
suppuration, or (tie rDrniation of nmtlcr.
When « »ail is driven so close as to w-otnid lite sensible parLs,
ihe animal suddenly draws back liis fool, from tbe pain be siif-
fers : and the smitb, auai'e of w bat he lias do»e, rrinoves tlit-
nail, and lakes no riiitbcr notice of it; though, somelimos, to
avoid suspicion, he filU the vncanl bole in (lie slioc Willi the bead
uf a nail : and w lien tlie liorse is aflerwards found to be lame, lie
loo oDeii denies having any knowledge of the cause. WIm'h ihv
lioi'M* is not worked i in mediately, and iIk' wound not coi»td(>r-
able, it may not occasion lameness ; most commonlv, Imwi-vrr,
it is of a moiT serious nature, causing violent innaniinntiun,
which lenninale^, in a few days, in Miiipurntion. 'Hie maltcr
wliicli is fovmcd, being confined, spreads under ttie horny soh*,
and cAUM-s so nitich nain that the Imrsc can scarcvly put big foot
(o the ground, and if he be not reliered, by giving veiit lo the
matter, it continues to spread, and uliimalety oreaks out at the
coronet, or top of the boof. When the dtftt-ase has t>een suffered
W proceed thus far, it is dilSciilt to cure, and often leaves a. jier-
manenl tenderness of the part-*
As soon as il n known lliat a borsc luis been pricked, as it is
lermed, in shoeing, if the smith were to remove the horn,
where the nail entered, with a small drawing knife, so as lo
allow the matter which may fornt to escape freely, all ibis mis-
chief might be avoided. It would be proper to let the horse
stuiid without a shoe for a lew days, and wrap up the foot in a
large bmn poultice. Il is a comtnon practice with smiths, on
the«e occasions, to pour oil of turpentine into tlte wound; and,
somtiimes, in order to increase its power, ihey set it on fire;
afli'r this the shoe is put on, and ihe bottom of the fuol fllletl
up with tow cU|)j>e<l in hot niixiiire of lard and tutpentine. In
* Somcliitiea Uiiienc>i<> a prtiduced by the nail being driven too iwor ilie
SaUkV, vrhhoiil (wnctnidiig it. Luiiii-neaii iii lim caim in not |>em«ved ol
rtt i DOE tiniil (lie (ircMurc «f ilic liitoMiul pArto Ibreo ih« svnaible pufU
luunst the olfcndinK niul. In Blithe cruim n rcmoiul of lli« crniM inmr-
tliately aHonli relicr; in otlicn, it is neccunry to |)oiiliicu the foot for sexnl
ddjw. — Ed.
INJURIES CONNECTED WITH 8HOEINO, ETC. 819
trifling wounds of the foot, the horse often j;ets well under this
treatment, though more slowly, perhaps, than he would had
these remedies been omitted. It may he proper, however, to
pour a little Friar's balsam into the wound, which forms a sort
of coating, and may serve to exclude air and moisture from it,
and Uierehy prevent the formation of matter: with the same
view, the cavity that has been made by reniuving the hum may
be lightly filled with tow dipped in digestive oiiilment. But in
woundaufa more serious nature there is generally a high degree
of inflammation, so considerable sometimes as lo excite fever;
and, in a few instances, it has been followed even by locked jaw.
All stimulants should here be avuidetl, until the inflammation
has subsided, and matter is formed, which invariably happens in
wounds of this description.
The flrst thing to tie done in these cases is to enlarge the
opMiing made by the nail, and pare away the hurny sole, on the
same tfide, until it yields to the pressure of the thumb ; a large
poultice is then to be applied. After two or three days matter
will have been fornied ; and upon pressing the sole, near the
wound, a little dark-coloured fluid will be seen issuing from it.
On introducing a probe into the wound, it will be found lo pass
under the horny sole, sometimes to a considerable extent; and
HS far as the horny and sensible sole are separated, so far is the
former lo be removed. A dressing of tar ointment is then to be
applied ; by means of which a new horny sole will be gradually
produced. Should the mailer have penetrated lo the coronet,
the same operation and treatment are necessary, excepting the
poultice : for, when the disease has proceetled thus far, we may
be sure ihal there is matter confined under the horny sole. The
sore or opening on ihe coronet is to be dressed with solution of blue
vitriol or tincture of myrrh. After being dressed for three or
four days with either of these prejKirations, Friar's balsam and
B plaster of digestive ointment may he used. When the nail
has been driven so near the sensible parts as to cause pain by
its pressure, inflammation comes on slowly and gradually : and
sometimes the lameness does not appear until several days after
tbcTsboe has been applied. This may more properly be termed
a bruise of the sensible parts of the foot, than a wound ; but it
produces the same effects, which are inflammation and suppura-
tion. This kind of lameness comes on gradually; and is often
■o inconsiderable at flrst, that it is not observed by a careless
rider. When the smith is consulted on these occasions, he sel-
dom discovers the seat of the lameness (unless it be af^er mailer
has been formed, when the cause is too manifest to escape his
notice), but attributes it lo a strain of the shoulder, or a bit of a
wrench in the fetlock joint. This is more likely to be the case
when the smith that shod the horse is applied to; but, if an-
990
blSBASes OF THR ifftiisr.
oilier is CQi»ul(e<I, lie tak» ran; to learcli very dili^<-iitly for atif
errors tiis rival may liavc committed; aiid, tlvotigli lie (imi no-
Uting to Account for the lanietie^ will oOeii affirm that t)tc hone
has bit-n prickfd ; he tl»e» stu/u up the foot with sonic snmjf
kiihitiiiK-p, and tntiti to iiiitiirc and rest for making good hti
assertion ; for, ithould the horse ix^cover, hi' depends on its heittfi
attributed to his superior skill and jienetration.
Much mischief, however, b ofWn done by their mode <»f in-
vestigation ; for they cut away the horn so freely, between tlw
twttom of the crust and the sole, or wlvere the nails are placed,
that scarcely any room is left for nailing on a slioc ; and it is
perhaps, a considerable lime before the horn can be reproduced
which has been unnecessarily rcniovetl, WItcii a horse has been
pricked ii] shoeing, and the lameness docs not go olT spoiitano
ously, it must, in a stiort time, be discovered. The lamenet*
gradually increases; ami, wlien matter is formed, it ts very
easily detected, by prcssiiif; moderately with pincers, or by a
slight blow on (lie part : or, should it esctipe observation at ihtl
pi-riod, it cannot finl of being tioiiccd when it breaks out at ihi'
coi'onct. The lunt of the fore foot most commonly wounded n
the inside (juarter, fi-om the lioni lieinc llitnner in that pan of
the foot ihan any oilier; lint, in the liind foot, tlic qtinrlera aM
generally ihicker ; and liei'i? we most commonly fm<l tlic wmmd
ncuivr dir tw. WIk'H Ii is «us|>rcted that a l)orsc has been
wiiiindiHl or prifArd in sluieinii, liie first thing lo Ik- tlonc is Ui
atiikt' on the foot gently willi tt hammer all around the hoof
where the nails are clenched, and on ilic shoe also. The
wounded part may thus be generally discovered by the Iwrse
suddenly withdrawing his foot when it is struck. Tliesliofis
then to be taken off, and llie wounded part opened with t
drawing knife, and treated us we have before d(-scril>ed; but
slionid no tenderness be oliserved in lliu foot, it would still bf
advisable to take oK the shoe, and apply a poultice to the fool;
that is, supposing every othei' part of the limb lo have lieen
careftdly examined also, and no cause for (he lameness dis-
covered. If iho lameness shoukl arise from a wound in t)»e foot,
it will gradually get worse: and, when matter has been forfiied,
the lendeniess is so considerable, that it can scarcely fail of l>etng
detected. Sometimes the homy sole, by which tlie matter is
conJined, U of considerable tliickness ; and it sometimes happens
tliat the smith, having pared away as much of the horn as lie
thinks can be done with safety, is afraid to go any further. Utit,
whenever we find great tenderness, upon pressing the sole with
the thumb, or slrikin<; it gently, we may be assured titere U
matter undertKWth, and that it ought to be let out, however
thick the horn may be which covers it. If there be no matter,
it may be known by minute specks of fluid bloo4) appearing on
IHJUBieS CONKECTED WITH SHOEING, ETC. 331
the horn, as we approach the sensible sole. This indicates that
no separation has taken place between the sensible and horny
sole, and that there is no disease in the part. Supposing this
mistake to have been made, whicli, however, is very unlikely to
be the case if the directions we have given are attended to,
the part is to be covered with digestive ointment, and de-
fended from pressure, until the horn has grown to its usual
thickness.
Pimctrired Wounds.
Tlie horse's foot is often wounded by bis stepping on a nail,
which, in technical language, is termed picking up a nail. The
frog is the part generally wounded, and most commonly on one
side. When the nail enters at the back or wide part of the frog,
that is, towards the heel, there is much less danger than when
it enters near its toe, or termination. In the latter situation, the
navicular joint is exposed, and is often wounded, causing obsti-
nate or incurable lameness ; and, should the nail not have pene-
trated so far as to enter the joint, it generally wounds the
tendon by which it is covered. The treatment is similar to that
we have recommended for wounds in shoeing; that is, opening
the wound, paring away the surrounding horn, and poultices.
When the inflammation is considerable, bleeding, bran mashes,
and a purgative, are useful. After a few days, it will be found
that the horn surrounding the wound has been separated from
the soisible parts ; when, by pressing gently on it, a little dark-
coloured fluid will be observed to ooze from the wound. AH
the born ttiat has been thus separated should be carefully re-
moved, however extensive it may be. A dressing of digestive
ointment is then to be applied, having previously poured a little
Friar's balsam or tincture of myrrh into the wound. If the
wound does not appear to get better, but discharges a thin yellow
fluid, it should be touched carefully with the nitrate of silver,
or lunar caustic, and afterwards dressed with Friar's balsam-
It sometimes happens, however, when the nail has penetrated
through the tendon, and injured the navicular joint, that the
disease gradually increases, and at length becomes so bad, and so
hopeless a case, that it is deemed necessary to destroy the animal.
I have seen butiyr of antimony applied with success to a wound
of this kind, a few hours af^er it happened, and am inclined to
believe that in all wounds of tendinous or ligamentous parts a
caustic is the best application. J prefer lunar caustic, or nitrate
of silver, but in some situations a fluid caustic, such as muriate
of antimony, may be better. If those wounds are not immedi-
Y
398
DISEASES or THE IIORSS.
aU-Iv nitcnckd to, and pr{>|>rrly (rcatpcl, & t4Tious and obstmaK
luiiK-iii-M U ofleii til* foiiwquenctr.'
On Idtmmeufrom Itruiut of lAe Foot by Stoiut, Oravrl, !ft.
CaieB of this kind arc bj- no means uitcommon, and are
eeiierally caused by ihc pressure of tlif sitor, particularly la
liorsps wriib tbin flat »ol«. HorH's, alto, with frtKKl soles, are
occasionally lame from ibli caiiir, tbroiigh ihtr iiijudicions in^
nagt'inciit of tUc »initb, wlio, iK'ing goncrntly (imbitiouaL
improving itie naltinil form of ibf fool, paroH avrtiT m> niuctiT
tlie solv Tor ibii purpose, iliat tbcre ii not enougli left to defend
the sensible parts Troni the blows and pressure 10 which i( it
iHNXiuanly exposed; ror> if the shoe is not made so flat as to
bt'nr on thi« thin piiit. nny vacancy that ta left is soon filled with
dirt or gravel in iravi'lling ; and the same effect is produced as
if the iiiioe were in contact with it. 'n»e method of detediug
and treating this kind of lameness is similar lo that we hare
recommended in wounds of the foot ; that is, by pressing it, or
Btrikinj! it liglitly with a hammer; and giving free vent to any
matter that may be confined.
A horse is «ometimc« ob&cr>-cd to be tender from this cautcv
imniedinlcly after ^hoein^, particularly in the fore fe<-t ; ond il
will gcneially be found llmt ihc londerncss Bribes from the toe
having bivn jKired loo much. If the slioc does not press OD
iIh* thin part, (he hone should be allowed lo rest a few days, and
a little tar ointment should be applied to the sole, by which it
will acquire its ustml ftrmne^ ; but if t)H- shoe is bearing on tlie
sole, il must, of course, be taken ofT and altered.
1 have known many cases of lameness from matter forming
under the sensible sole, uiiliout any apparent cause. It is pro-
bable, however, ihiil, in nlmost all these cafic»> it was occasioned
by a briiite. 1 liavc known Jl happen in several instances at
grns*: aUo in the Mablc, when the iwrse lias been at rest; or
while he has iK-en doing Iii$ ordinary work.
The following i;n»e« ure given as examples of such lanteaef%
and of the manner in which they wen- Irenlcd.
Cote ). About forty cjivalry horu-s were lunicd lo grass in
aofi meadow grouixl, their shoes having previously been taken
ofTf and the fore fi-el pared. AbotiC two or three wi-cks aflcr,
several of them were observed lo be very lame ; and on examin-
ing the feet it was found that matter was confined under (hr
tole. All the Iraniy sole, which had M>i>arati'iJ, and by which the
• 1 -have cured icvcrni cnnc* i>r ilii» kiiwl by the s|'f>l>fsl)Mi of cono»i«
niblimale anU ipirlli of vine lo (he wound, uid kerfin); ili« foot bi |>oull>c«
lor some liuie. wlien |ienti>Lncot lomcncit biu luecvcJctl, llic honw liu Iwn
raiilervJ xvavW^ by the tierve oiicnition.— Hd.
INJURIES CONNECTED WITH SHOEING, ETC. 323
matter was confined, was completely removed, a hollow shoe
applied, and the whole of the hottom of the foot covered with
digestive ointment; when they all got well in a short time.
From this we may learn that when a horse is turned to grass
without shoes, his feet should be pared with caution ; perhaps it
would be the safest plan, merely to rasp the bottom of the foot
to a level surface, and leave the sole untouched. It must be
recollected, however, that in ceriain cases of lameness, thinning
the sole, previously to the horse's being turned to grass, is re-
commended as a remedy.
CoMt 2. A horse that had been at grass some time was ob-
served to be lame; he was taken up and examined by the smith,
who could not find anything to account for the lameness, and,
therefore, concluded that it must be in the shoulder. On ex-
amining the foot, J found a little moisture oozing from a small
fissure in the coronet; and, on finding the horse flinch, when
struck on the bottom of the foot, towards the inside heel, 1 pared
away the horn from that part with a drawing-knife, and let out
some dark-coloured fluid. A separation between the sensible
and horny sole had taken place to a considerable extent. All
the horny sole that had been detached was carefully removed,
and a dressing applied of digestive ointment. The fissure in
the coronet was dressed, at first, with a solution of blue vitriol,
afterwards with Friar's balsam. By this treatment the horse
•oon became perfectly sound.
C€ue 3. A horse had been fired for a lameness in the fetlock
joint of one hind leg, and turned loose into a large box : about
three or four weeks afler, he was observed to be lame in the
other hind leg ; the smith was called in to take off* the shoe, and
examine the foot; nothing was found to explain the lameness in
the foot, or in any other part of the limb, except that the horse
generally stood with the fetlock joint bent, resting chiefly on his
toe. This was supposed to arise from some injury of the fetlock
joint, as the position in which he stood (ended to favour the liga-
ments of that part ; at the same time it was observed, that there
was neither increased heat, swelling, nor tenderness of that joint.
It was supposed, however, that the lameness was similar to that
in the other leg ; and, as firing had proved effectual in that case,
it was thought proper to have recourse to it in this also. I was
sent for to perform the operation; and, on my arrival, being
informed that the foot, as well as every other part, had been
already carefully examined, we proceeded immediately to the
operation. The horse had been fired on the outside of the joint,
and turned over, that the inside might be fired also. At this
lime, a.1ittle matter was observed issuing from a transverse crack,
or fissure, in the coronet- This immediately led me to suspect
that matter was confined under the sole. On paring it away,
V 9.
334
nisKAses or THE aoRiK.
ihis waH roum) to Ix- the cose ; and ro liir \uu\ tli<- mnttrr \
truted, lltiK it was Ibuml ll^cptnry (o riiiiovc aboul »ni> linlf ^
the liamjF aolr. I'ho tmnic trcnimeiit was aduntc<l u in ibe
fornier case, nni] die Iwrvcgrwluully recovered. 'l"hi« cjuc aho*i
how iircesury it is to cxnmiiiv <-very part miriiit<-1j before a
aeveif operation is n>s(irii'<i to; and iiuiy tench ili« young
titiuiKT, thst be sltould itrvor Iriut to the ainith on ihew
liotDt, but depei>d onlv on bis own investi^^ation.
On Lameness frotn Cutting.
In cutting, ii twrse iwmdimfs strikes him»cir so tovon^y, or in
BO tender a jMirt, (u to cousc hmeona Tor n *bart Uhk-. but
generally il hooii wctin off, and Iw goes on again very well unui
the blow is rc|x>ated. Wh«ii tlw blow ia inflicted on the inside,
and lower part of itio knrr joint, it is cftlled the speedy cttt,
bpcaiiae it vnmnionly bHpi>ens whm the horse is trotting iMt.
'Hic pain this ocvasions is mo sevi^re, that llic horse often fallH dovn
siiddciilv from it, wlii<'h pjiiihti it to be considered a very dan-
gerous railing, more (■^|l4'viul)y aa it b a failing that is not easil*
remedied. In carriage: liorM-s, lite l)e»l remedy is to drive thcw
without u bearing rein, which enables l)»em to go with norf
ease, and without ttiat high action which this gagging rein occf
sioni: at the eame lime the bitoeing should be attended to, bjhI
when ihe pflrt of the fool or shoe (most freqiienltv it is tilt
former} which inflicts the injury has been discovered, it sbonM
be rasped away as much aa can l>e with safety or proprietv.
I have seen a severe lameness produced by a lionie striking liu
fetlock joint, which continued for several day*, and was mistalien
for an injury of ibe shoulder, because, (hough it was evident iliu
liorsc bad struck the fi.>t]ock joint, he Iwd not even knocked ofi
the hair. Upon a careful examination, 1 found he bad strucJ'
tliflt ptirt over which the nerve passes, and had left it so tender
tliat the horse could scarcely bear to have it touched.*
Cutting is often a consequence of weakness or fatigue; in sudi
eases the renmty is obvious. The part most commonly injnml
in cutting i* the insi<lc of (he fetlock joint, and ihi- coniniw
remedy b to moke llw.- inner branch of the shoe thicker ilioi:
the outer branch, gradually swelling; it from the lot- to the hwi
This is su[>]K»ed to alter Uh' ponilion of llic fetlock joint, and
* f<ginctiin«> conf>iiU<r*bIo swelling, as «etl st UmcMw, is jirndtKedoa Ik
inoiilc of (be Ivft by n-pcRtcJ nrikuig, slilioiifrti tl>rr« amj tie do nltfisl
KOuiul. Sucli cnw rrquirei poultice* itnd rommUlioni ; m ahsccM gCMn%
fonnt. Ilirougli nbich a sulon olioiilcl be |KUicd h> a* 10 securo a dqktnttV
opvniiiK. liorge splciiu, IVoiii ilieir jiraiiiinciico, frequcaily occ^rfon culdi^
|iftrtuiiliirly when ihry nrc situated nrar the ftiiaek joiot i and nEniilao
mitiiiD iiroiliicci himj rnlorgenmti on the inniilc of tlie Ic^ wlitrh, lijr r^
peated blows, incmuc grcMJj In mn. — Eo.
INJURIES CONNECTED WITH SHOEING, ETC. 325
place it at a greater distance from the striking fooL As cutting,
lioirever, is orten an eifect of weakness or fatigue, and not un-
frequently of awkwardness in going, this remedy often fails.
Mr. Moorecroft, on this account, was induced to try another
method, quite the reverse of that I have just described, and in
a few instances I have found it successful. He advises the outer
branch of the shoe to be raised in the manner before described,
so that it may be higher than tlie inside. For lie says, " When
a horse is at rest, he supports his weight equally on both feet ;
but having the inner heel and quarter raised wlien one foot is
elevated, he must be supported obliquely on the other, and
hence have a tendency to fall outwards ; to prevent which, he
brings the moving foot nearer to the supporting one, by which
he strikes it; but by raising the outer instead of the inner
branch of the shoe, we necessarily give it a disposition to lean
inwards, which will induce the horse to throw or incline the
moving foot farther from the supporting foot." •
Mr. Goodwin describes an improvement of the common boot,
OS it is termed, for defending the fetlock joint, when cutting
canimt otherwise be prevented, which may be had at Mr.
Long's, veterinary instrument maker, 217. High Holborn,
London.f
When cutting appears to depend upon weakness, or riding a
horse, though it happen to be a moderate journey, until lie is
fatigued, the most effectual, as well as the cheapest remedy, is
to turn him to grass until he recovers his strength.
Over-reaching.
These, in old books of farriery, were termed according to
their situation in the heel, or above the fetlock joint, the higher
and the nether attaiid ; from the French atteiut. These acci-
dents sometimes happen from the toe of the hind foot being too
long and not squared off as 1 have advised, but more frequently
from the sharp edge afforded by the inner rim of the liind shoe
towards the toe. It may also occur from bad riding, in pulling
up a horse badly, and making him gallop false, as it is termed.
Whenever the wound is such as to leave a flap of skin, whether
it be upwards, downwards, or sidewise, it should be immediately
* In the hind feet there in no shoe more likely to prevent cutting than a
three quarter shoe, the inside heel being left uncovered.— Ed.
J The belt Iraot for cutdng tl>c t^ is Torined with leather fitted to the teg
laced, the leather bein^ double at the part struck by the other foot.
In some instances it is found that a boot buckled round the hoof thnt cuts,
•nd softly stuffed, prevents injury from the blow when other methods fail.
For cutting the fetlock, a piece of cioth tied round above the joint and
doubled down over it answers the purpose. — Eo,
Y 3
326 DISEASES OF TBE HOBSE.
cut off as close as possible ; a reunion o( the parts can never
happen, and by leavine the flap, and attempting to effect the
reunion of the parts, tliere would' be thickening and a gretter
blemish, and its removal would be found neceesary at last Thk
may be considered as a contused wound, and to all auch wounds
I think a poultice the best remedy. This probably will be
doubted by surgeons; but in horse surgery it will be found the
best practice. WIten the inflammation nas been completdy
subdued by this poultice, the astringent paste may be applieci
and nothing more done for two days, when it is to be soaked
and washed off, and a similar dressing laid on. Three or fbor
of these dressings will genei-ally effect a cure.
AxtringaU Ptute.
Finely powdered alum and pipe-clay, in equal proportions;
water enough to give it the consistence of cream. When tbe
wound is perfectly healed, a little salad oil or hog's lard may be
necessary to soften the cicatrix.
Halter Gut.'
When the horse entangles his hind leg in the halter, he often
injures himself considerably ; the heel is the part that generally
suffers, and the only remedy required is wrapping up the part in
a large emollient poultice, until the inflammation is completely
removed ; if any sore remains, the digestive ointment, ot
Qoulard ointment, mav be applied for a day or two, and then
the astringent paste of pipe-clay and alum mixed with water.
Goulard Ointment.
Fresh hog's tard 1 lb.
Linseed oil 2 oz.
Palm oil 2 ox.
Melt over a slow fire, and when removed and getting eoi^
stir in 6 oz. by measure of Goulard's extract of lead. Continue
stirring until it is perfectly cold.
* The subject is included in the present chapter from the rimilaritf of tbe
ii^ury and tbe proximity of the port to thst just described.
DISEASES OF THE FOOT. 8S7
CHAP. LVI.
DISEASES OF THE FOOT.
Corm.
Tuia is a very common and a very troublesome disorder, and
may truly be said to be often occasioned by the smith, being
eenerally in consequence of bad shoeing. Corns most commonly
£appen in white feet, with weak low heels; but they are too
common in feet of all colours. They are occasioned by the
pressure of the heel of the shoe, either by its bearing directly on
the sole when it is too thin to bear the pressure, or by its forcing
the heel of the crust inwards. In this way the sensible sole is
bruised, the small blood-vessels ruptured, and the blood pene-
trates into the pores of the horn, causing the dark red appearance
observable on removing the shoe, and scraping off the surface
of the sole at the part marked if t^ fig. I. page 336. This bruised
part is exceedingly tender, and incapable of bearing the pressure
of the shoe, and so are the crust and bar on each side of it.
In the Meatmen/ of this complaint, therefore, all the parts must
be so cut down, crust, bar, and sole, situated behind and on each
side the part marked d, fig. I . page 306., that when a bar shoe is
applied, it may be full half an inch distant from the heel. In
this way a horse will be able to do his work, provided the shoe
is removed, and the heel pared down as often as is necessary,
and a little caustic, such as buttyr of antimony, applied with a
feather. As in this case the frog will be constantly receiving
considerable pressure from the bar shoe, it is necessary to take
care that the ticels are not too thick and inflexible, in which case
it is necessary to rasp them ; and whenever there is a morbid
degree of heal in the feet, or dryness, they should be kept con- .
stantly moist and cool in the stable, either by poultice, or by
several folds of old woollen wrapped round the coronet, and kept
constantly wet. The common practice of paring out the corn,
sad leaving the bar and crust to be in contact with tlie heel of
the shoe is doing no good; nor would it afford even temporary
relief, if the shoe were not bent up, or made to bear off that
auarter a little, as they term it ; yet, after riding a few miles,
le shoe ia sure to yield to the horse's weight, and bear upon
the tender heel. It is thus that corns are made so troublesome
as we find them, and many horses are rendered nearly unser-
viceable, or absolutely ruined, by this improper treatment.
Matter is often formed within the heel from this sort of manage-
ment, and breaks out at the coronet, frequently doing great
Y 4
OP THE HOSSe.
misdiier, and cvcii rcii<lcrinK n Imrec tisclcss. \M>i>n conn li*ie
been sulf^rcd to fio iliis U-ngit), tlic fool niiiflt be poulticed, and a}l
ihe hollow horn out away. AfkT Uk- iiifhimmation has been ihiu
complcicly Ktibtliiit), th<- M-mibU- paru which have been laid
bare niay br (li'c-»M-d with Fiinr'* balMtn, un<l the lar ointnienu
or with u unliitioii of >iil)>lia(«- of sine. 'I'ht.- rulical cure of
como in tilway* iiniciiciibk' it' taken early; but tn old cases, the
Kiisiblc partd will alwavs remain in a tender ttaitt, Itowevcr nrc-
fully they may be treated, and will always require the <)erence
of (he bar »hoe, ap])Iied as 1 have tlescribed. A run hi f^nun
wiHtotU thors is a gteal relief to a horse with corns, iirovidi-cl the
taider Iteel is cut down a» I hare described, and (lie IkvI nnd
quarter rasped very thin. When a radical cure ta attenipied
this is tlie mo«t likdy means of cSecting iu
I 8mi Cntdt,
I This i» an accident ihut hapix-ns to dry bridle hoofs, and 'a, .
Fin &ct, a breaking or friicturc uf (he horn in chv wonkrsl part;
I thai is, at titc upper [>art of the inner (juarier of the foiv Ut%
and the front part of the liind feet. A wnd criirk .ilnio»i aluati
extends to the sensible JP''ts> and can seldom be cured if tlie
I horse is kept in work. The first thing to be done ia to open die
I crack widi a drawing knife, for it geneially runs obliquely nndei
I llic Iwrn, and cut out every Iwllow pari completclv. howewr ftr
I it may extend under ihc crust. Every particle of horn that ii
I hollow, or detached from the sensible parts, must be cuniplciriT
I cut away, and the bar stioe applied eatcd off the affected liew
I and quurter,
I When a little sound horn is grown from the coronet, a lim
I should be drawn triinsversely between it and the crack with i
I firing iron ; and as die hoof grow* down, the crack will disap-
Ipear. A strap, however, slionid be applied round the hoof lor
^aome lime, so ae to prevent loo much motion in the fooL A
little blister ointment just above the crack often doc« good, and
lar oinunent on the crack on llie adjacent horn. Observe, loOk
ttwl the quurter where the crack is must be ras]>etl away on ihia
OS potwible. In ihi* way, sand cracks mav l>e always cured wilh*
out difficulty. 'Itie brliile «tjle of tlw lioof, however, must be
I correcieil, by anoiiKing ihe foot witli ihi- tar ointment ; tbU will
[ be absorbed through the horn, and stimulate the secreting viweli.
Fattf Quarter.
When the coronary ligament has been much injured by quit-
ton, irca<l*i or other contused wouikU, it tometimes fortnt nom
i
DI8KABES or TIIK tOVT.
o( a lighter colour than the mi of the hoof, and k«s pcrreci,
on^D lcaviii|{ a lissiii'v or «c-am froni tin- top to lh<.- b<itluni.
5onK>iimes the vrholo qouiter is impcrrccl, mill iiicuimhle of bi-iir-
iiig pressure; th«Tfforc, in «iich ttvur^, a bur «hoe a nc?ees«iry>
by UR'aiis of wliicli, when (be falie iguaner ii kept properly
pared down, ii will be Mt unne dbiancc from tlie surface- of the
ahoe, ajid thtis be alway.t free from pre&iure. ^M
RQuHtor. ^M
This i« a coDsequence of a contusion on the coronet of the worst
kiihI. Tiie injuries ll>at a tiorse does himself in the stabh- by step-
ping aceictentally on ihe coronet, or a Utile above or lieiow it, are
seldom so severe as lo eoine under the denomination of qtiiuor.
It is almost always done in frosty slipperj- weatltev, wiien, in
endeaTouring to save thenisdrcs from falling sidewise, they »if[i
with dreadful violence on the foot that is sliding innards, gene-
rally upon ilic coronet of the inside quarter. The injury is so
considerable, that the cartilage, the extensor tendon, or ilic
coffin hone, is always more or \vtt injured. This is the enuse
of the obntiniicy of the disoi-dcr. In the fimt pbice, it is neces-
sary to find out with a probe the direction and extent of the
nuses or pipes ; this being done, let some ptiwdered sublimate
c spmid on some whity-brown paper tbnt has been smeared
with bird, and then let it be cut out in nitrrovr slips; let tliese
slips he foldi-d u[», and twisted into a point at the ends. One of
these ia lo be first introduced carefully, and be lurced, if possi-
ble, to the bottom of the sinus; and if not, as far as ii eiui be
forced with a strong probe. When ibis has been done, anoiluT
slip is to be forced in, in a similar manner, and so on, (ill the
Binus is quite full. A pieee of tow is then to be placed on the
part, and bound down with tape or listing, so as to keep the
dressing in. lliis dressing, in the course of four davs, will liave
done its work ; the bandage is to be removed, niid then a slough
or core will readily come out, and leave a large open sore, which
will enable the oiwralor to see the bottom of the injui'y; and
llietii if he dresses it daitv lo Ikt bottom, with tenu of lint dipped
at first in a solution of blue vitriol, or buttyr of tintiinony, af>er-
wards in Friar's balsam, the wound n-iil heal gradtmlly, and (he
horse will be radically cured. [The objection to this severe
method of treatment is, that a considerable portion of the lairrul
canilage is destroyed, as well as the coronary substance, which
secretes the cru«t; the consequence is, a fiiUc quarter frequently
takes place. ]n the greater number of cases, the treatment re-
commended by Mr. Newport, V.S., will eftect a cure. It con-
aiiU in injecting a saturated solution of tulphaCe of xinc every
twenty'fotir Iwurs. I have found this trealnieiit eflectual in
390
0ISKABR8 or THB noMB.
many cun, taking care to poultice ihe Toot aUo for Mwnl
6»yt.
In otltcr more severe cases, I have fountt t)io mM^riton of ap-
toii* attended with Bucce«f, the aclotix being carried to iho lower
ptrt ol' the sinuses, and brought out eitlier at th« iu«lt, or be-
tween the bars and frog. See my Treatise on tlie Foot, &c^Ed.]
Tltrunh.
^lU is a disease of ihe frog, causing a discharge of matter
from its division or cMti not ollen productive of lameness,
especially in the hind feet, wliere it is frequently a consequence
uf iieglij^ence in ihe ^room, in permitting a hor«c lo stand in ha
dung, or upon foul wet litlci'. This sgllpns and rota the homy
frog, tite putrid and acrid fluids pcnctrste through (he Boakeil
and rotten horn, and inllamc ihv sensible fmg, causing it lo
discharge a fetid acrimonious matter, instead of tocreting liom
for its own defence, as it does in the healthy state.
Tlirtt»hn in ilie' loit; feet are soineiime* occuionocl by con-
triiciion ufthe lieelx, hut more frequtrnily by the hurny box or
hoof, considered altofi^fthcr, becoming too thick, and cons^
(|uendy inelastic. 'I'he treatment of (Tirush must depend alto-
gether upon the cause which produces it. When in the kind
bot, and occasioned by (tlthinesa, the cause must be removed,
and then ihe disorder may cea%e; but this is not always thecaae,
for ihe thrush sometimes has proceeded so far 03 (o producf
ulceration of the sensible frog, which tlien requires to be dressed
with H soliilioii of blue vitriol, or osymel of verdigris, Beforo
tl)is Is done, the cleft of the frog should be tborougfily cloaneed
to the bottom by means of tow ; and if there is any ragged bora
covering a diseased pari, it should be completely removed. One
of the^e dressings, when i( is properly done, ik tufficicnt for the
cure. Some tar, or hoof oinlmeni, may be applitnl, to promote
ihc ivgeitrrution of horn, mid to defend it from moisture. In
canes where the frog has In-comv very tender or rotten, I have
found it necessary to npply i> mixture of tar and sulphuric acid,
which b made by adding one ounce, by weight, of sulphuric
ucid to one pound of melted tar, and stirring the mixture for
some time. As to the thrusli in the fore feel, when it is attended
with heat of the parls, and contracted fool, the treatment is dtt
fcrent : by attempiirig to stop it by thoic preparations which nit
usually employed, the lameness is ol^cn incrraied. The only
thing to be done is to rasp the licels and quarters, ihin tlic soln,
cover the froj( with lar ointment, and wrap Ow foot in an
enuillieiil puultioe; in »<liglit cose*, complete and permanent re-
lief will Im' thus adordetL Should the tlinifh continue after tlir
hoof has been well soaked with the poultice, and especially if die
J
DISEASES OF TH£ FOOT. 331
frog is very tender and rotten, apply the mixture of tar and sul-
phuric acid. In old thrushes, physic may be useful, and some
alterative medicine. In bad cases, palliation only can be ex-
pected, unless a new hoof be obtained of n better kind, by rasping
the quarters and thinning the sole, until spote of blood appear ;
and then, after stopping the feet with tar ointment, turning the
horse to grass.
Thrushes may happen in the fore feet merely from filthiness,
and may then be cured as they are in the hind feet.
The third kind of thrush I have to describe is not so common
B9 the two former, and is no other than incipient canker. It
may always be cured by removing from the frog every bit of
horn that is detached from the sensible frog, and by which a
diseased part may be concealed, and then applying to the affected
part a saturated solution of blue vitriol, or tar ointment, with
sulphuric acid. Cleanliness must be carefully attended to ; and
when the disease of the frog has been cured, tar or hoof oint-
ment may be employed to promote the regeneration of horn.
Canker.
This is an obstinate, and often incurable, disorder of the
foot, generally b^inning in the frog, and spreading from thence
to the other parts, even to the coffin bone. It is often a con-
sequence of neglected thrush, or grease, but sometimes comes
on without any apparent cause, and most commonly in one or
two feet, but sometimes it attacks both the fore and hind feet at
the same time. I have now two cases under my care- In one,
the near fore foot ie principally affected ; the off fore and near
hind foot slightly.
The first animal is a fine saddle horse, and the disorder seems
to proceed from the horse standing idle in the stable upon
litter, and upon good keep. The latter is a waggon horse uiat
bos been workea rather hard, and kept upon oats, chaff, and
beans, with a small portion of grains, and as much hay as he
likes to eaL The saddle horse is nearly cured. The waggon
horse spears better; still I fear that the disease in him will
prove incurable. One thing is essential in the cure, and that
ig to remove carefully every bit of horn by which a diseased part
may be concealed : this must be done at every examination,
and the foot must be carefully examined and carefully dressed
every day. The treatment of canker and the probability of
success, depend upon the length of time it has been standing.
When taken in hand at an early period, and before it has ex-
tended beyond the frog, a daily dressing of a strong solution of
blue vitriol, and a stopping of melted tar ointment, or the
mixture of tar and sulphuric acid (one ounce of acid to oue
OIBCASES OP Tm HOME.
pound of tar), miiy bo siiflictiiil to rfTi'Ct n cure. StiotilJ ttiii
rail of brinf;ing on a iKalthv »p]>earB»ce, \et some butter of
anlimony b<.- a|>plicd, or add to two otinms of the mIhuor of
blue vitrol tt-ri dro[w of viilpliiiric actd. A •oluiion of bltu*
vitriol ill viiK'^ar mnv t>e irkra. Wtiaterer caustic mny t>e found
tUKctnary for the cure i>f cntikcr, some preparation of lar it
UJ^ful ill pniiiiiiiiiig ilie iv]>ru()uciion of born * ; pressure un t)ie
dihcuiod parts is conducive to t)>e cure, and may be applied by
means ol low dipped in ihe melted tar ointment, or lar and
sulphuric arid, and kept in by ti-ansverw slips of wood, or spliutt
as iliey are termed, confined under tl>c shof. It would be
difficult to enuincrato all tl»c remedies or means tbat have been
employed for (be cure of canker, and mo«t commonly williout
vucceas: for tltp disease after some time appears lo penetrate to
the ligaments, cartilages, and bones; and tluMC viho have been
most successful bnve been, in general, most free in llw use of
the drawing knife and caustic. In two bnd cue* that 1 hove
seen mretl, ufler a considerable lime iind much labour, the
horses were afierwnrdx irremediably lame. Mr. l.eif);h, Wte-
rinary Surgeon of Itritiol, had a cirriage borse under his care
with a canker in the hitid loot. Alter a liiile time (be horee
became so troublesome that it was found almost impossible
to dress him. and pare out the foot properly. He iberefore,
threw him donn and performed the nerve operation upon the
leg; after which the loot was dressed witltout rceistaiice, and
the canker soon got well. When I heard of this cuse, the liorR-
had been in work four years after the operaiion.t The only
caustic I have not seen tried in canker is arsenic, or some pee-
paralioo of that poisonous mineral : I have kitown it applied
with success in fi^tida of the withers and poll-evil, also for the
removal of warts, »lill I should be afraid lo apply it in canker,
aa iU destructive inlliieiice cannot be limited. I have seen t)io
actual cautery applied, anil, I think, with good cni-ct: aUo oil
of vitriol, nitroim aciil, cornwivr sublimate, quicklime, Utr and
sulphuric acid nearly bailing hot, quicksilver, or red prt^ijiiuxr,
dissolved in nitrous acid, and many other caustic prejiaration^
A mixture of corrosive sublimate, blue vitriol, and prepared
" An cxrcUcni ikppIii-Ai>i>ii in iIiIh diimsc is rvniinl b]r iiltrtc aei<l, rcr^l-
grii, and Bnrbadon lar. — Ri>.
t The vdvniuugc uHbrded liy this upemiion it not tiinplr the conv«nienM
of (Ircning (lie fuui. b»t hIw> itiut It enNblen thu nniniol to bew freely on t^
diMOSed pnits. prumire bi-inj- of ilic grcatnt »i*vj«. The ofwrBlion i<.
thcivr>re. T*r_t iwcFiil in bail ciutn. (t ii, in<l4V(l. hv prosntire, cnuntio, Mni
the knife Ihm h nire U rfli-vtnl. Il nuitit. howL-vcr, tic botitc ill niiml th>t In
thi* dbcsw the preisim nin> bo loo \itf*t intti-ml o! lou liiile. In which nut
foraiidable inJlflwiimliMi uiny sopcrvciic in the jninls, and ilic iimiciilnr liour
rosy Ltlcirate with tho flexor tcnJon, u rc-iult vhkli I have known la foltuw
the uprnilion nf neurotomy in cniikfr. nnd which U more liLcly to Ofcur i(
tbe openiion ii pcrtormeJ than if nol. — Ei>.
DISEASES OF THE FOOT. 333
chalk, has done good ; also a solution of sublimate in tincture
of myrrh, or spirit of wine,' At every time of dressing, the
spongy surface should be scraped off; and, if any horn remain
of the sole and bars, it should be carefully examined in order to
discover whether the disease is creeping under it or not ; if there
is even a suspicion of its being so, the horn must be completely
removed, and the diseased part dressed. If, upon a careful
examination with a probe, the coffin bone be found carious, it
must be freely scraped with a drawing knife, and whatever part
there may be in the way so as to impede this operation, must
be removed. Sometimes the disease spreads under the wall
or crust, and then generally affects the coffin bone. In this
direction also it must be scrupulously followed with the drawing
knife. It oflen happens afWr a great deal of lime and labour
has been bestowed on this disease, that the practitioner is un-
expectedly defeated by suffering the disease to creep gradually
under the horn of the bars, sole, or crust. In the case I have
now under my care, in which all four feet are cankerous, I have
told the krrier who attends, that unless he dresses the feet daily,
and observes carefully the directions I have given with regard
to paring the feet previously to every dressing, whatever time it
may require, his labour will certainly be in vain, and he may as
well do DOthing.-f-
It is not unlikely that canker, when of long standing, is, in
some d^ree, a constitutional disease ; and, in this case, it may
be useful to turn the horse into a dry field or paddock, or, at
all events, to keep him on green food.
[It must be acknowledged that there are some cases of so long
a standing and so inveterate, that the cure is altogether hope-
less, and should not be attempted unless the hoi-se is very va-
luable.—Ed.]
LaminitiS) or Founder
" Is, as its name implies, an inflammation of the sensible la-
minae of the foot, as well as the elastic and very vascular sub-
Stance that connects ihem with the horny laminm and the coffin
bone. It b a disease, compared with other lesions of the foot, of
somewhat rare occurrence ; but it most frequently attacks horses
whose crust and laminae are weak, and very obliquely placed.
We meet with two varieties of laminitis, the acute and the
chronic or sub-acute.
" The .SyTn^tOT/M of this disease are a quick and generally a full
pulse, accelerated respiration, the feet and coronets hot, and
* Quicklime w)d chloride ot lime have been uscil with edvantBge. — Ed.
-|- Thu horse a now sufficiently recovered to return to his work.
d3t
bISBASEB or THE HOI
I
the liorse almosi roiisianily Ij'in;^ down. It is wiih difficulty
tliAi he can be induct^ to stand or move) and wht^n he doci,
liifi hind feet aiv placed as much as poeaihlc under the body,
and the fore ones strelched out, the animal resting almost en-
tirely on his heels : the feet and coroneW feel very hou The liiiid
leet may be involved m well ks the fore ones, but ttM> latter
are more frct]iienily alone sfTeclcd, tl>e proportion of tvei^lil
Mipported by iWin bi'ing so iniicli greater.
" The caufrs are — lirtt, toi)g-continue<l and rapid exertion on
tlic hard road dtirinj; tlie summer mouths; secondly, confine-
ment in A Ktandinff potture, for a long period, ax on board
triiiiKport«; and, thirdly, ineiiitUu>is.
" Tlial ilie first cause nhotild produce the discaiK- i« an object
of IcM Kkirprise than that it d(K-« not more freqitently induce Jl,
when we consider tltat tlie eli'ect of sliocinj; ii to make tlw cnut
and lamina? support the whole weight ofthe aniinal wliilst travd-
]inf( on lite roAd.
" Some curious esses are on record of liorsea becoming »U
tected by this disease on board transports, from beini; unable
to lie down, Bv comtanily atandtu)^ in one position, the elastic
connections of the lamina? are put continually on the stretch,
more imrtictilarly if the shoes aie on ; and this coMSUni action,
though not carried to its greatest extcoi, is ycl much more
laligtiini; tluin wlicii the natural functions of alternate elonga-
tioii and conlruetion are permitted. T1>e third cause to whidi
welinve alUuled is, jH-rhaps a more fret|uent one tlian either of
the others. After a Iiorte lias been lahourinK for a while under
inflanmiation of the lungs, or the muscles ol the cltest, it is by
no means unfrequeiu for the diMase to leave the part originally
affected, and to utUick the feet — to fitll down into the feet m
it is vulgarly supposwl. This metastasis is a very singular phe-
nomenon of nature, and one which cannot easily be evplained.
When luniiiiitis is thus produc4'd, it is iiKually less acute thai)
when in<lu(.-ed by [In- ollu-r chum's we have mentioned; liul
uliliou^h le»a aente, it is moi% obstinate in its character, and
more likely to produce ]>erniunent disorganisation of the foot.
Treatment. — 'i'he hlMX-s being renvovwi, the fi-et should ba^H
pared out, and a large quantity of blood nb>triK-lrd from the loij^H
taking cure that the artery itnelf is ojiened, and not mei^ly iW^^
vein. Wccaimot well take too nuich blood from ittefeet ; ifbulli
are airccied, four or five tjuarts of blood will nut be too miu;h from
each foot. " To promote the flow of blood, it is well to imincne
the foot in a pail ot warm water during the bleeding. If iIh* Itorse
cannot be made lo stand upon one leg long enough for the per-
formance of the operation, we should bleed from the enronel,
|>iitting the feel in a warm bath immediately afterwards, and,
if sufficient blood caimol be procured from tl>c coronet, we
DISEASES OP THE FOOT.
355
ahoult) take an additional quantit}? from ibe ^aie vt-iiis. A
dotD of |>ttVKic sliould bo pivi-i> oc soon as possible, and fullomd
by fcbi-ifu^c mi'dicine. Unli-iw lliv ur(;cncj- of ihe synijuoim is
considerably remilted by \hv following diiy, tiic bleeding sboiild
be repeated. Tltc poullict^ ulioiild bo continued for £«veral
dan togeihor with tno wnrni fofnentittionK, and sliould tlien be
•ucceeiKd by cold Bi>i>Ii<:atioiis, applied by means of ciotlia tied
round the pasterns, uiid made lo fall clotely over and around
the cntst. The refrigeraiiiif; lotion recotniiu-nrlod for strains
will be found very iihc-IuI at this stage of the dltva^c.
" After this treatment has been prnciised for uhoiii n week, n*e
shall find it advantageous to blister the
coronet, taking care to foment the parts
about twelve hours after the appliciitloii
of ibc blister, which, by thia uiethiid, mny
be repeated in a few days. Should the
tn-atiiieiit be negleeted at Grst, or not
■' tufficicnlly em-rgetic, and, in some coaes,
even in tinile ufall wo may do, disorgan-
isation will (idcc place; the elastic con-
ttecliont of the lamiiin; will give way, at
aiiy rale will be unuble to oppose the
action of the flexor tendon, which thus,
having no antagonist, draws the toe of
the coffiii bone downwards and back-
wards, aiid away from the crust, and the
sole, at the wiine time, becomes convex :
and thus we find in morbid specimens of
this disease a eonsidenthle tpitce iK-tween
the toe of the coffin bone mid the criiKi,
the bone l>ecoming preterniUii rally up-
nr««fc.i™-.,r.i, 11^. '■ig'"' a"d t'"' c'"*! '"'"■e obli.pi.-, this
•Aav'iiy i4i Mfftmi lU- Space being filled up by a morbid tlepo-
fn*i (/ Mifuty in it* gitign, thc nature ofwhiLh apgiears some-
^■'*T' . -J ■ t.^ what between horn and bone. Wlwii this
FiK- I. A iiii« »!•• of til c , , 1 I ■ 1 It
muhI h™r, •iih a ««W. 'B the case, the horse is rendered almost
tbowlng tbe praiwr ilriitvv useless fit onlv for slow work on soft
of €*llnuii; lo b. 4S df- „rQ„nj „.|„,,^ 'tiip f^„ ,^ 1, rs can as-
grew «f •lenlloDi ai. Ih« ". . ' i ** ■ i. ■ ■
^uancri ^ ill* liBul; c, sist m Supporting (lio atiimal s Weight.
Um(oc
Tlg-S. 8id«Ti.»<ifil«(,-on. i^Ckrvnif lAimimlit is a diicose very
I IXUi^ZnJ^ 1., i"""'!""* i» i'" «PP'x)r>ch. and the fii^t
[ naiursl fcriii. and *p- symptom* being obscure, its effects are
^m prwdiM «»• degna to- oficm-r doiniciive than the more active
■ •'^*«^"""""* malady we have juM notia-d. In the
■^"'•irtJ'SL'.IC^S '"""■• *»• *^" o"^-"' ^"'^^ 'I'**'" ""^ '"»■
^Hiw. ease with the first blow, by means of
pxtcneiri' blooil-lc'tlin;;; bul in ihc Tornior, diwrganUatton hu
probably coniiiiciicwl bt>rorc wc nrr callrd upon to oomtwt the
evil.
" Ttw symptomii, I have uitl, are ob»ciire : thcr« » lamiiie*^
but it t* \>y no im-ati« Mvere at Rvsi, ajid not suffidt-nt to induce
ihf iiDtinal to prefer the recumboni [xiKture miu-li mure tlian
common ; lie can sciierallv relieve liinit)eirauf!icienily by milking
greater use of bia heels. 'I'lie cniai feeln waini, and this warmiB
18 coiiBiantf but it is ofVeo not palpably greater than in a state of
health. The Btirest symptom to direot our judgment is the
action of the animal : ii is diametrically opposite to (hat in the
navicular disease. He throws as much of bis wei{;bt as he can
on the posterior pnns of the fool, liis object being to relieve the
front portion as much ax possible.
** The Irratmmt iimst be very similar to that vfe Imve recom-
mended for ibc nciile dixiNute, namely, blmid- let ting, catspttunif.
fomentation, and bliittei-H; but il is neei-wuiry to resort mucli
sooner to the I ii*i- mentioned prophylnctie, re[)enting it frequently
wilh abort imei-val*," — SjH'onfr mt tkn Fi>"t, ^f.
Pamieeii fitt are often the efTeci of tlie previoiu diaeawt; ilie
lamina; give way and the sole becomes convex. This, however,
may be produced naturally, or from the weakness of the hora
and ihc weight of the animal. A cure cannot be obtained, boi
the case may be greatly palliated by bar slioes carefullv scaled
' out, and (lie application of tar ointment to the feet. — I^d.]
Chtvnic Lametiett, Contracted Iterh.
This is one of the most common and dwtrticlive disorders lo
which ihe horse is liable, and may almost he said lo be |Kculiar to
■his country. According to M. Jaiixe.lhe number of foundered
^ imltikjf Fan in iia ■■^■imf iMM A tutltaiM ftaC
•u Ihs 60K1 AA ttu htn, ct t Ihu ulc dtt
(IwKi.'wl at cent.
horses in this connlry, compared to those of Fronce, is m leo to
one; and this he ntinhiitesto otir mode of shoeing. 1 believe
Iw is perft-cily right as to the proportion of foundered hone*
DISEASES OP THE rOOT.
betwMMi this country and France; but as to shooing, it han
liltk' or nothing at all to do wiih it. It is rntin-ly cutiscd by
tho imntoderate work that horses arc made to do, and until
thi« evil is corrected the number of such lamenesses will not
diminish, whatever mode of shoeing; may he employed.
I ihink it necessarvi however, to ob3er^-e in this place, that
a (;reat deal may be cfone for the relief of post and coaci), aud I
may add waggon, horses, but more especially for the two former.
They are generally shod in the most slovenly and injurious
manner imaginable, and this not altc^ether from the fault of the
smith, but of the proprietor ; who, in endeavouring to get his
work (lone as cheap as he can, is not aware that lie is causing
hi» horses to be crippled. Corns are very common among such
horsM, and instead of being properly managed, the horse is com-
pelled to work with them as long as he is able to stand. Their
feci arc always in a state of inflammation, and no means arc
employed for relieving Ibem. The low price at which the smith
works will not permit him to do what is necessary to the feet.
He is sometimes allowed, it Is true, a eompensaiioii in attending
tliem when ihey break out at the coronet from neglected corns,
or become so lame from excessive inflammation in the laminated
substance of the foot that they are unable to stand. He is then
permitted, perhaps, to rub in some strain oils on the shoulder
or fetlock joint ; or he may be paid for bleeding now and then
when a horse is too full of corn, or worked into a fever, and then
suddenly cooled in a pond or river; or he may be allowed to
Eve some cordials wlieii a horse is exhausted by excessive
bour. But it is belter for a post-master to attend to a horses'
leet himself, and pay tl>e smith a fair price for his labour.
Clironic lameneas may exist in various degrees, and in the
early stages of the disorder a horse may do considerable work,
by paring his feet properly, and keeping them cool and moist ;
by paring the soles, putting on a wide hollow shoe, and keeping
them stopped with tar ointment. Br such management, the
progress of the disease may be retarded, and the norse much
relieved ; but it can never be cured. Most commonly, the dis-
ease gradually gets worse, and at length the horse becomes unfit
for every kind of work. At this period the horse is generally
blistered or fired, and turned to grass. But this never does any
good, f^ioes with claws, or hinges and screws, have been
proposed and employed with a view to open the heels, but of
course they have never done any good, either in (he way of
prevention or cure. The hoof has been all rasped away, and
the trarse turned to grass until a. new hoof has grawn down of a
projier form, hut ii has never done any goo<L That cruel
operation of tearing off the sole, teclniically termed drawing the
sole, WW formerly practised for it, but is now, I trust, completely
^■f ntscABTrs or the horse. ^M
discuiitiiiued. In Hhort, en-ry lliiii<; tluit hunuiu ingenuity cut
(Icvisv has been trii^, but nuttiiiig ban ev«f beeit foutul to cun>
tliU (lisonk-r. I beiicvv, nt tbit time, oil veterinarians agree in
the opinion orii^t bcin^ abdulutvly iiiearable.
A fr<:({ii<!iitcaiiM.'ot'clironic Innienen is a diteaae of the lowest
nyiiovial cavity, that it, vhvrv the teiulon inovp* upon tbc navicu-
lar or iiiit Iwtie. 1 liftve liitvly examined ti>e fet-t of two Itorset
aflected with tliis kind of lameiieaa. In one* a carriage Iwne
tlint bad been tame t<iro or tbrce year*, I found ilic cavity quite
dry and of n yvllow colour, and ou the turr»cc of iIh> nut boae
tlwre were nuiny minute bony (fxereicenoea, about the size of
millet seeds. In tbc second, a stage-ooach hone that bad beeti
workliiff in a crippled suite for «oine iiin«>, I found the navicular
synovial cavity in a similar slate ; but Ihtc the coffin joint olio
was diseased. There was one part of tJie articulating surface of
the coffin bone, where the cartilage had bc«ii wont away, and
appeared as an ulcer, and on the lower urticulatinv ^lurbos
01 the »mti]l piistern there were llircc spou from whicli the caf>
tilage had been worn.
QIi has now been otcertainetl tttat lite chronic disease here
spoken of, which used ut be attributed to the contraction of the
foot, is almost invariably seated in tltc navicular joint, and
that contraction alone, althou(;h it may bi- botb a cause
eiTect of ilie other disease, dot-s not, in itself, pi-oduce lac
It is therefore termed the navicular disease. — Eik]
Tke Saoiaiiar Joint Lamenett.
[The joint above mentioned is llie seat of the greater number
of obscure lamenesses of the fore extremity. But although su
frequent, it was not till some years after the connnencement of
the present century, that the nature and siluatioii of tbc lame-
ness was discovered. Before this, the sliouldcrs were invariably
pitched upon as the seat of the disease by farrierw, (and, indevJi
tliis is pretty much the practice with tliem at the present day.)
wliiUt veterinary sur;;eon» considered that when the foot wu
contracted, this was the cause of the lameness, and when it ms
not, tltBL the seat of mischief was llie coffin joint. The great
merit of pointing out the nature and seat of tlits before obscun
diM-asc is due to Mr. James Turner, of Regent Street, LondCDi
who has written various essays on the subject.
'Hie fymptain* are lameness, pointing or resting t)>e aReetrd
fool, and sometimes contraction of the foot. Tlw lameneo a
rarely pereeptible in the walk, and is generally greatest at fint.
diniinbhing or disappearing from exercise, lis degree depciith
altogether on the ecveriiy of ihe case, being sometimes so severe
mSKAHES or THE FO01'.
339
8S to render the aoimal usclet*) and in otiier cases no siijjht, at
scarcely to be perceived.
PoiHtiatt, or resting, b an almost invariable H^ninioin ; the loot
is generally thrust in a straight line beyond ihv other, but some-
times only slightly extended.
Contraction of the foot is generally the conseciuence of the
lameuL-sa, and is owing to the horse not hearinp llie same weight
upon it as before, i^omelimea, however, tlie lameness is pre-
ceeded by coatiaction, particularly by contraction of an insidious
kind.
The nabirt of this disease is peculiar, and has been brought
to light by morbid dissections. Someiimei^ it comes on sud-
denly, and then llie injury, though severe, is more curable; but,
geoertilly, it is gradual and insidious in its approach, and is for
some time preceded by pointing. In dissecting feet aifected
with this disease, we find it in various stages. In many, the
sioow is found adhering to tlie l>one, in which cases the action of
the joint is obliterated ; but the case may remain stationary for a
long time. In others the cartilage is itbradeti, and pariiuny ab-
borbed, and little bony excrescences appenr on the surface of the
bone, or carious holes may penetrate its substance. In some
instances of long continuance, the sinew i« found excoedingly
thin.
The cautis of ihis diM-tue aiv eitht-r jircdiKposiiig or exciting.
Long reil in the swbic without exerciiic, the heat of the litter,
and the confitieuwm of tlie >h»e, all pn-dl^poec the joint to he
injured by a sudden bruiwe, on the liorst.- being suddenly taken
front this state of rest to fast work on the hard road. The
same causes, too, produce a morbid iliickni'^x of the horny
Bol^ with some contraction of the hoof, wliercby tlie navicular
joint has a hard unyielding surface to rest on, instead of a soft
cushion, and thus t>eeomes more likely to have its synovial mem-
brane bruised from concussion.
Tbc trtatmfnt of this disease ia not generally attended with
success ; if ulceration has commenced, we may relieve, but can-
not cure. If the horse become suddenly lame, our chances of
success are greater, as then inflammation alone may exist. Tlie
sole should be pared thin, the (iiiarters rasped, the loe shortened,
and three to live quarts of blood Liken from the foot, by opening
the artciy at the toe. The foot should then be immersed in a
linseed meal poultice, and so continued for a week, after which
a frog seton may be inserted, and kept m for a month.
If afVer this treatment the horse is not considerably better, wc
may then despair of success, unless we liave recourse to the
nerve o|>eratioii, by which we may remove lite lameness, aithotigh
we cainiot eradicate the disease. — Ed.]
1! 2
CHAP. LVII.
OI-EHATIOKS.
BImlinff, and it» Ofim^urncet.
Titis ojienition is fmiuenUy required in tlic diseases of hones;
aii<l ir cniployed M-iUtonahlv, and to a stilEcient extent, i* the
iiKKii cHiracitiiiH rcintdy wc ure acquainted with. AVtien a lione
a[i[]eurN dull and heavy, »[id indifTcrcnt about biHTood, bybl«d-
itif; wi^ iiftcii prerent a fever. If a borse is bled at tlic com-
nwiKX'Tiictit of II cold, the eoniphiint generally proves iikxlenio.
and of «h»rt continuance. In all caaes of internAl iiiflanimstioa,
or kiynij>toniittic ft-ver, bleeding is the most essential remedy,
providi-il t))i^ operation be performed at an early period, nnd the
blood <Ii-iivni in sufEcient quantity. In such cases I have of^n
taken away six quarts or more, and repeated the operation the
same or ilie following day when it appeared neeesiary. By
blci^ding copiously at nrst, those formidable diseases are crtished
at oncp ; while by auflering tliem to proceed, or become at all
violent, which they will do unless this pra<^tice is adopted (or if
. only R small quantity of blood is drawn), tliey generally prove
btnl J nor will bleeding be of anv service.
Blcpdiiin is either general or local: that is, it is done eithw
so as to affect the system in general, or a pariicular part only.
lianetiM,
, !nli•UllMli■u■u*tl]rcnlplo1«Illt1Il)lwII■
lB^ The bUiliT wltli diniMt* (dgr
f* uhkI ^o^ oiwnini; •btrani.i.
Tliuflnin, tatToduonl bj Uic P^itoi. U
ncsmiiionilBil M boinfi ivrj- lifcht ind
(tmll, M acM be cuncd luniciiicnlh
in the waiMcait p«akc( i the buk >•
(■no fifth ftf an Inrii hnmd, m (Jul ii
on b* ilnid. witli lh> Tight hand, »ei
r«<liiim DO hluod-dick.
OPEHATtOKS.
841
For general bleeding, the jugular, or occk vein is most conve-
nient.
The proper situalion for bleeding is about four inches from
tlte part where the vein divides into two brandies. Farriers
sometimes tie a cord round the neck in order to raise tlic vein;
but this is unnecessary, and may do mitichief.
When the jiipular vein is firmly pressed with the finders of
thu left hand, the blood h prevented from dec'ireiiding, and limt
part of the vein which is auove the fingers is considerably dis-
tended, and becomes very conspicuous. In this Mate it may be
easily opened with a lancet held in the rigtit hand.* Tho vein
will continue to bleed so long as the pre^ure below is con-
tinued.
Farriers bleed with n flf<tm, which, tlimiwh upimrciuly a
clumsy method of operating, is cerlainly safer than the 1iLiici-t in
unskilful hands, f In topical bU'<-ding, a vein '\A chosen ns near
OS powibic to the affected jwri, or the vessels covering the pjirt
arc Oi>cned ; in the inflammation of the rye, for eX(irTi|)le, il is
doiio by scarifying the inner surface of thr eyelid, or by opening
a small vein, which is easily seen going from the inner corner of
tlic eye towards the nose.^
* In bleeUing with a lancet, the off-side b moat convenimt. Tlie head
riwuld be eltvated ao lu to |)u[ ilie vrin in some measure on tlie »lrctcli. ilic
lo*r of blood ^oiild then be 'topped by ilic lingers of llic left linnd, nnd die
lancet beinji held in the ri)(til hand betirccn the finjtcr and thumb, liie i-cin
ahould Ih: upcncd bj one iiicisian, not two, n* advised bf «omc writers. It ii
neceuarj thul Ihe liuicut sliuuld be very nhiirp. porliculHrly at \h* point, olbir-
wise the vein i» apt to tuII from llic inHiriimcnl. This inilce<l, f»rnii the
priodpal objection to it* ii»c. for the ihirknCH of the nkin nnd tlie coat biunt*
dw pobt after brin|[ uied some time, nnd it tlien rendeni the operation diffi-
enh. — Ed.
\ Id bleeding; with a Reatn. (he near tide i» most convenient. In skilfnl
hamb, there i« no oceniiicin for n hliwdmick. m the floani mny lie sirurk with
tbe right hand if il u mndc brond nnd rniind nt ihe biuk. It may also be
made much Bnmller and ncntcr tlmn Ibut ^ncrnllr emplciycd. — Eo.
\ The aitualiona most favourable fur lucul bleeding are the toe and co-
ronet in both hind and fore feet ; the inside of the arm and elbow ^oliil in the
fbfe Icfb and the inaidc of the lhif{h in the hind -, the niiGiilnr or fnonl vein And
tbe palate. A fleam i« the moit convenient inilrnmcnt in blredinK. either
front tlie arm or tlnKb, as the vein in very ajit to roll when a Lincct ia used.
In otlitr phecB a lancet is preferable, excm for tbe foot, where a nbarp
drawing kntfe n the inont suitable and in lets likely to oceasion fettering. In
thia nination the artery itiicir«hou!d l>c ogirned, which llc» unnicwhnt nearer
Ibe frvff than ibe vein ; the blood i> readily stopped vilh a comprcu of tow.
There It aome dilHsrenee of opinion ut to the bfnt.-(i[H of local bleeding, lomo
dcnyins Ua efficacy alingether, Fur my own pan I am favuiirably inclined
tOwsr«U it if jiiiiicioii«)y prnctitcil, .tnd hare, in many ctucH, wi(ne«H«d iu good
eSbcts. Il ihoiild, however, be home in minil, ihat it i* of very tittle lerrice
to abstract a pound or two of blood locally if ihc ijileni ii in ■ plethoric
•tate, unlea* we relieve this [jlpibom, for tlie inflniinxl |iart will very soon be
loaded with blood a^o. lu such a Hue we bIiouIJ first have reeoarae to
gcoeral blooding so as to reduce the system, nnd then hftving, in great mcsMin,
z 3
943
DISCISES or THE UORSC.
A graduated tin vessel, capable of oontainins six or seven
quarts, h very convenient for the purpose of receiving the blood,
every pint being marked on tbc inside of llie vcBse], ra that the
quaniily of blood drawn mav be exactly known. The blood
should always be preserved, tliat wc may judge irom its appear-
anoe of l)ie nature of the disease, and whether it is proper or not
to repeat the operation. Wtien it continues fluid a considerable
time^ it dcttolc* an inflammatory state of the system. Should a
whitish or light bufT-colourcd jelly appeur on its nirfsce, after it
has coagulated or K-ttled, and should this jelly be of considrr-
able thickneu, ratlter finn, not easily penetrated by ttn^ fin^,
wc may be satisfied lliat tlte Imrse's complaint is inftammfHoryi
that bicedinf! wa* A proper remedy, anil tliat if the symptoim
eonlinue, the ojxTalion may be repeated with advantnf^ ; out if
the blood cosculate* quickly, is uniformly of n dark liver colour,
loo^, and easily broken, with a considerable quantity of water
upon its surface, it denotes debility, and shows that the diseun
nris(4 from a wc-nkness of the svstem ; tliat, instead of blttdiiy,
tonic and rpriiial ntedicincs are to be employed, witli every thing
that may lend to restore the animal's strength.
I n order to judge connectly by the appearance of the blood, it
should l>e drnwii from a large orifice, and not siifTen-tl to run
down the Hides of thf veMei which receives it, and should \x
put a»ide for examination, and not shaken or disturbed in any
way, until it Un^ perfectly coagulated.* |HH
Mopped the nipply, we roav emptor topiooJ IdeedinK with odninti^c. tt i* br
want orMtendinn'to tli» lint lucal lilceJing hu, in some imtuncn. been hdil
in ditrepme. In those tn'luatinns where a b^ qusntiiy of blood can b«
nbatnicied locally, gcneml bleeding in, of coiine, motn required. To relttre
local iaftunmatlon «c ahould, irpooible, elUier bleed from the (lorgcd vcurk
■h^niiiclTta, or from a win prucming from ihrm, or frvoi on nrten goi^ to
ilic! tnllnini>d part. Fiirriers will blccil in the ll>i|;li veins fur an iolCunroatiMi
of (be kiJiiFp, which i* ridiciilniii and abnurd m n topiral romedjr. For in*
fluinititiiion ft the hrnln f;re<)t birncfit haa been obtoiiitd frorn opemng the leii>>
poral nMerici. Now thcie vcnels do ntn supplr the tirain it u trite, bn by
opening tlititi nn ariifieiul itrala Is ainde, ihrougti which nwcb o{ tlic btood
cscapi'i iliiit woiiUI oihnwiM hftve koeic to (be brain, hnidn « hich a lurft
ijimnlil^ i)( blood n nlialrncicd in a short lime, when, |icrhnpt, it »c»iiU hue
been ilitririiU lo hnvc bled from the ntck lU ull.owin^ to the liolcncc of the
niiminl. The benefit of topical bleeding ii duly npjireciated in buoMn tutftry,
where, by means of cupping «iid k-ethc«, K i* »erj frcouentl)' mctbeiJ. Bj
HIch meuiiK L'niuritix mid pleuriny bn«c been quickly iilli-iintcd Lii nuineroiit
instuncck. I hnce known a penon wffcring moil acutely front (be fonniv
di«ciiNc relieved from neulc pnin in n few miDutta, bp euffing aa near ihe leai
of puin lu pouilde. Via cHiiiiot very conveaivntlT enplor capping in ihc
hone, but may of\en obtain iniieh benofit from seanrjriag with a hncet'—diT
cuiipinj at ic I» termnd. — P.i>.
* \t c niiL't hr rnuiiouc in not placing (oo much relianee on the apptaranM
of ihc biooil. ('onncciett with other sjinpioin! it will prove very ■enriceatta.
h'll inkctt nl»iii: it is likely to deceive. — Bo.
OPERATIONS. 94S
When bleeding h employe^l a» n prrventive, ov in any tliglit
oomplainu, fi'oni two lo tliroc ({uarts of blood niaj- bo (itkeit nway,
according to the hone's strength and condition; but in caiii.-^ of
internal inflammation or fever, a more copious evacuation is
necessary.
The quantity of blood generallv drawn in inflammatory dis-
ordera is loo smal). It ahould always be carried so far as to
weaken the pulse. Two gallons may Eometimea be necc-ttary
to produn? this efTecl : and in mad staggers I have seeii four
gallons taken off in the course of an bouv with the best eflect.
When horses are taken from camp or grass, and put into
warm stables, they are very subject to inflammatory complaintx
and dangerous fevers; under these circumstances, moderate
bleeding now and then will prevent such diseases. Homes that
are gelling into condition, as it is termed, are liable lo similar
disorders, unless moderate bleeding be occasionally employed.
J am inclined to believe, bowever, that it is a bad practice to
bleed ofien upon trifling occasions; it is liable to induce p1e<
thora or fuln^s of habit, whereby a horse is rendered more siis-
ocptible of disease than be would otherwise he. • Moderate
purging and regular exercise, with a proper regulation of diet
an<l temperature, are fully adequate to the prevention of disease
on those occasions; but these are too often neglected.
It has been assertt^d, that it is seldom necessary tn pin up the
orifice, which is made in the skin by bleeding. 1 grant there is
not ofien any danger to be apprehended from its bleeding again ;
but unless it be piimed up, thai is, unless the lips of the wound
be brought into coniaci, and kept in that situation, by passing a
pin through the edgea of the skin, and twisting a little low round
It, as is getierally done, inflammation and swelling will sometimes
take place in the wound, and matter will form in consequence.
[In pinning up, the edges of the skin should be brought inii-
tnaiely together, and care should be taken that no hair insinuates
between them. The skin should be drawn from ibe vein as little
as po^^ible, and the pin should nut be too large. For want of
attending to these precautions, tliose disfigurements are produced
which we often perceive in the necks of horses that have been
bled.
Sometimes, after bleeding, the part swells considerably from
blood escaping from the vein, and diffusing itself under the skin.
The l>est applications, in these Ciiscs, is cold water, which should
* Mr. Tnplin'i ator^ n a very ln«tmcliv« one. He tella m, a coachman
rcqunted hi* matter to let him liavi- thr hone bIrJ and phjvicked, beeaun
tlley had IxTn u[K>n lii)ih (nd, nnil hnil hoii hut tittle work : he «■■ penilltt«d
lo hare it done nroiiilcd he would lubmlt la the name opcnitioiis hrniMlf, aa
there waa exactly the nine maon for It ; but lold to avoid the rapoiM for
tktt ftiture, by uMiig IcM rood or more cicrciH.
z 4
J
344
DISEASES OF TUE HORSE.
be frequently applied, ihe tiorae'e head being tied to tlie rack, as
he alwajs oufflit lo be after bleeding from ihe neck, for one or
two hours. With tJiis Ircatinent uie swelling will coinmoaljr
Bulnide, but sometinies it terminates in an
If J^koRtd Vein,
This is a vciy troublesome complaint, rc<|uiring a eondder-
able- (liGplay of lliat patience, of which) very frequently, tbe
! ovmcrhas none to «paro. It may commence with a swelling Jucl
after the bleeding; out generally (Ik firet appearance is a little
swelling, and a few days aftermmls a M-paiation of the lips of
tlie wound and a little acrid fluid oozing from it. In slight
cases, matter may form external to tlie vein, and tbe part sooa
gets well, the vein itself not being much aflecied. More fr^
riitly, however, a considerable swelling takes place, the vein
vc the wound feels hanl, end the parotid gland is greatly cn-
lai^^ed. This denotes a stoppage in the passage of the blood,
which therefore Itccomcs stai;nutit, and cltukcK up the roeaels
passiii)^ through the gland. When this occurs, the vein w*ill 00-
questionably be lust. Sometimes tliertr is considerable lintnor-
rnUK from (he vein, which is stop[R-d with some difficulty.
T^tatmtRt, ^ If (here be consiilerable swelling, and some healf
the best plan is (o foinenl with warm water the first day, and kecf
tlie iwellinff vre( witli cold lotion fur a day or two afterwards;
by >0 doing, we ge( rid of a good di-ul ofsu[)crficiul enlargcnwitl,
alihongh the principid swelling still remains. Wc should next
blister the enlargement, either by a strong application at ooctv
which may be washed off the second day and repeated, or bf
freuuent mild blister* in a liquid form. The horsv shouM be
tiiil up to the rack as much as possible, so as lo prevent the li««d
from being held in a de[K-nding position. The diet should coo-
siitt pi'incijHilly of mashe)^; hay xliould be avoided, as it require*
so niucli mastication; tlie ac^llun of the jaws forcing the blood
towards thcjugular veins, and Uma incrwuing (lie swelling. A
mild dwc of physic should be given, and « little nitre subwo
quenily. This simpli- mode of treatment I liave found effcctutl
in every case (a vast number) in wliteh it has been employed
Tlic vein is generally lost; but in llie course of a montli (lie
swelling is in great me-isure abwrbed; lite blood finds olltet
channds, and the horse in t\t. for the saddle, and a few wvekl
aAerward* for harness. I deprecate the practice of using caustic
ii^jections, noi only because tlicy are uncalled for, but alio be-
cause they are dangi'rous ; they have, in a few insiiuice*, cnti-rrd
the vein and eauswl death. 1 h.ive exiierienecd no diftie.uliy in
healing (iH-siniitiOs when they have formed, merely by prt-Miiiff
ouL the mutter and applying tiie blister as before observed ; aiw
I
I
\
i
OPERATIONS.
if matter forms at anoilier apot and poiiiu tt should nifrely be
opened witli n lancet j but tlie knife sliouid he nsed sparingly,
and setona should btt avoided, as wull as the plan of dissecting
out the diseosetl vein or its contents. In some instances, there
is considerable liteniorrhoge ; when this is the casei a little c-auslic
powder should be :ip|>lii<d to the lips ot' the wound, such as suU
phatc of cop[>cr ; titui the horse' it head being tied up, lit.- sliouM
be kept from fet^ding for twelve hours. This plan will g«!iieral]y
■uccvcd in stopping the bleeding; but if not, theorilice inu«t be
pinned up, or, if necessary, two small pins may be inserted, and
tow wound round each.
If the parotid glund continues enlarged, a little iodine oint-
ment may lie rubbed in daily several times. I have not found
any inconvenience from turning horses to gross subsequent to
the lo««of a vein; the prindpal evil is the circumsuiice that wc
cannot bleed on the aide the vein is lost.
The proximate canoes of inflamed vein are very obscure.
Bleeding with a rusty inscrumenl, striking too hard, cutting
through or acrntss tlie vein, badly pinning up, neglecting to tic
up the bead, rubbing the nwk afterward?, have all been consi-
dered as causes: but it has Wen found that, when thc«e supposed
agents have been puiijosely tried, tlicy have failed tn producing
an inflamed vein ; whilst it has occurred when the operation
has been properly performed, and every precaution exercised.
It must, however, be confessed that it occurs much more fre-
quently when the operation is performed In a bungling manner,
and proper means neglected afterwards. It may, however,
depend^ m some measure, on l)>e slate of the atmosphere; for,
at some periods, the disease is much more frequent than at
othcre; and tt may also Iw influitnced by tlie constitution of the
animal, li has h<-en a matter of sur]>rise that the swelling
should almost invariably exten<l towards the bead in inflamed
jugular vein ; but this is produced by the blood being rendered
Blagiiaiit at tills [urt, and not below ; ibe inflaminalion probably
docs not extend more in one direction tlian the other; hut as
soon « it is sufficient to produce a stoppage in tlie vein, it of
coune occasions it to swell above. — Ko. j
Phytic
The usual period for physicking horses is at the time or soon
tfler ibey are taken up Irom grass, or the »trnw yard, and when
Iteyare getting into condition by suitable feeding and exercise;
[iliree doses are generally thought iiecewary.* There is no
The ioioietlinte effects or purgative modiclnc arc n dctcrminntion of
I b>ooil to tlic iiiteitiiiet, aiiJ the rcmovnl of a pgrlian <i( iu wnttry ifwt v/'ilk
br whra hone* ur
> the opoi air inu a tubic
fWiywriU It » niM
'•adattrotiaa [»id
I SHI QwnKMC two or
' iIb MMd; |M«tMbly pnTcut*
FhTne it tuHnl «bm ■
. imdir, «m1 opeeially if the cjv*
■» of a jtB— Ml cokMr. A harm ilwaM be kqit
dnefljoD braD BMAeafaroa^tw^ or three dm before h«takn
dbjmc* The fadl ilkoaU be fpnm him sfbr buiitis m finr
bson, md ns feod iltaaUbeBicB dl two boon ■Act be
taken the fhytic He ihoaU 1MB hsve m bran tnaah and a
warm water, and in the ■ftenioaoanodier and woe warm
In tbe evening another bran nadiandoaeor two pounds nfhxj,
with a Ittile warm wster. Xexi mamiQ|^ the bone thoald be
excroMd with clothing acconliiig to the teuon and weather ;
and on his reinm from exetdae be ibodd haw BOOie warm
water and a bran maah. The pbjwe will now begin to wnrki
and ila operatkm roust be promoira by a rvpelitioa of the rx«r>
eiact, warm water, and m^. About the aneroaon, n liitlo l»r
mar be giveo, and some warm wxler. In the evening n maili
and warm water; at night a little hay. Therallowlng momiog
a ibibU qoantiiy of oata may be given : still the water must hare
the chill taken off, and only a small quantity of liay s>>oiil<l be
frir«t. The bone may, on the fourth day, be brought in bit
u»ual diet. There should be an interval of a week oelbre an*
other (low ii giTen. ^Yhen a horse is weak, or low in fledi, •
handful or two of ground mall or grxnind oats may be put inIO
•ach mull. Wlieii the pliysit make* a hor«e skk, and doM not
operate at tlie tuitual time, diat i% the morning af^er it is giren,
aitd i^pKially if he appears griped or in pain, throw up a
cljiiter, and give him a little exercise, which will make the pitysic
work and relieve him. If the phyuc works too violently, or
continues its operation too long, it must not be hastily checked
by oairingenu or cordials ; but by giving arrow-root gruel now
and then ; and if arrow-root cannot be had, some line wheat
tha tecea. It uUo c)<«nii out ih« InunlMS. kmI tliu* ronoves nahcak))]'
SSCTttiw. By ihr r>ni putpooc it Imwm inAuBnwiion. uai by tlif twn
Isim it feiDOVM miicrlliiaiiii Tut ondiBiproTniihedigcitircorpinii. >ncl thcrrt?
pro<naf«a oonilltiun. — Ed.
* Hj' hoFiiinit (JM liurac two or more dnja on maBbto, • leucr dow wEB be
required uml the uunc effect produccil mith lem irriistiou. Tim iButiei hefarc
phjsic ibould becoM, m the hone i* thrn nol ik> likpl}' 10 m-ktii sad rditn
the warn irmIim wliir li ure ncceiur^ after ibc diuc has been siren. — Eik
I The Avffwi of cxMoiM klioutd depi-nd uii tlic ojMrKtiini of tbe pbnk : if
It ojicfBitii ter^' liula tlio liorse may be rroued, but if h opcnica (naj VtlSt
or im excrciM) i* rcquiml. — Bn.
OPERATIONS. 347
floor moat be subttituted for it. This will almost always be
found to be effectual ; but should it prove otherwise, give a tea-
spoonful or two of tincture of opium in a little warm water. *
The strength and composition of physic will be found in the
Materia Medica.
Cltfsterg,
This useful and innocent mode of exhibiting medicine is too
much neglected, and when employed is frequently done in a
slovenly and ineflectual manner. The usual apparatus is a
pewter pipe, about 14 inches long, and an inch in bore, to which
a large pig's or bullock's bladder is firmly tied. The apparatus
invented by Mr. Read affords, however, by fiir the best method
of administering a clyster. Any quantity may thus be given,
and with a moderate force only. An opening clyster is made
l^ mixing a handful or two of salt with four or five quarts of
warm water : to this a little hog^ lard or sweet oil should be
added. Linseed tea, or thin gruel, with a little treacle or sugar
makes a good emollient clyster. And an anodyne or opiate
clyster is made by dissolving from one to three or four drachms
of crude opium in three or four pints of warm water. This last
kindof clyster is employed in locked-jaw, especially when it is
found impossible to give medicine by the mouth. In this case,
nourishment must be given also in clysters. Nourishing clysters
are made of broth, milk, rich gruel, and sugar. It was observed
by Gilnon, that when nourishing clysters are given in locked-
jaw, they are sucked upwards by the bowels, and absorbed into
the blood. He sustained a horse a considerable time in this
way. I have seen clysters sucked as it were upwards after the
pipe has been withdrawn, which is evinced by the rumbling
noise made in the bowels soon after, and the plentiful discharge
of dung, evidently from the colon. The stimulus of a saline
clyster in flatulent colic seems to be propagated by the nerves of
the bowels, throughout the whole almost of the alimentary
canal.
Blisters.
Before a blister is applied the hair must be cut off from the
part as closely as possible. The blistering ointment is then to
be well rubbed into the part with the hand ; and afler this has
been continued about ten minutes some of the ointment may
be smeared on the part. In blistering the legs the tender part
of the heel, under tne fetlock joint, is to be avoided, and it may
be better to rub a little hog's lard on it in order to defend it
* If the purging, however, should be excewive, we may treat the case aa
adviiwd for cliarrh<za.
DIS&A8BB or THE HORSE.
I
from Btiy of t1i«' blister that may accidentally run down from
tbc leg. When the lega are blistered all tlte liller shotilil be
removed from llie stall, and the liorse'a Itead sboultl be carrrully
secured, to {>revent his rubbing the blistered parUt with his
nose. On (no third day he may have a cradle jtiit about lii*
neck, and lie turned loose into a large boK, or a paddock, or an
orchard. In a lield he would be apt to take too much exercise.
About a week or ten days afiet tbc bliaier has been applied, (he
parts should be oiled with some mild oil, such a^ olive oil, or
(nth made neat's foot oil. If fites are troublesome, and make
the tiorse restless, ihcy may be kept off by the tar ointment^ or
tar and Imin oil nii\e<i.
[The formula for blisters will be found under that head in the
Materia Mtdiea. It will ihcrc be seen tliat cantharidcs forms the
principal and indispensable ingredient^ atKl thai its effect ie to pro-
duct* considerable p&in and irritation. Tlie statements put iorib
therefore by the puffers of quack blistering ointmenta to the
effect that their noglnmis produoc no irritation, and that no
precaution nwA be exerciM-il aflemards, arc allogctlier follariofle,
and calculated to do much mischief. Tlw fact is, the greater
number of hones will not rub or blemish tht'iuclTcs after any
blister; but if one in ten will do so it is desirable to use pr^
cautions with the whole number. If, however, a very slight
blister is used there will be no occasion to tie up the head, at
lite irritation will depend on (he degree of vvsication excited.
— Kb.]
/iMtwIft.
RowcU are seldom so convenient or so useful as selon«. They
arc fonncd by making an incision in the akin w}>ere it is rather
loose, as in tlie chest, about an inch in length. This being
done the linger is to be introduced, or an instrument called a
comet, that is, tlie crooked end of a small horn made for the
purpose, and (he skin separated li-om the par(5 underneath all
around for tlic space of about an inch. Into the cavity thus
made a round piece of leather, with a bole in the middle,
wrapped in tow and :niieared with digestive ointment, is to be
introuucctl. I1)e orifice in (he skin is then to be plugged up
witli tow, and kept there until suppuration takes place, titiit is,
foiir or five days. The tow is then to bo taken out, wlien a
great deal of matter will flow from the orifice. The rowel is
afterwards to be moved daily and kept clean.
OPeRATlOXS.
Seteiu.
These consist or tape, threads, or
lamp cotton pftMed under the skin, and
smeared with dwestivc oimim-ni.* Tlie
instrument employed for coiiveyinj^ these
under the skin is named a seton needle,
and may be purchased at the instrument
makers. When lamp cotton is used it
can be withdi-awn gradually, tlirciid by
thread, which on some occasions i^
desirable. Selons are prervrahle to
rowels, being more convenient and
V4}ually efficacious.
[The frog seton, recommended for
the navicular disease, may be inserted
through the Iicci, the horse being either
'^
*.
i
on must be held up by an assistant.
1 then plunge the curved seton needle
into the heel, with a second eifort bring
the point out at the cleft of the frog,
which has been previously thinned for
the purpoae, and by a third effort draw
ugh, a
id of 1
dcrcd thicker bv means of tow. When
the horse is thrown it is more con-
venient to insert the seton in a contrary
direction, viz. from below upwards. The
seton should be kept clean, occasionally
'< dressed, diminished in the course of three
weeks, and removed a week or two
afterwards. — Ed.]
• Mr. Morton recommends the tape or cotton
to be satiinttcJ wilh the bllowing mixture : —
" Oni- tiurt of powdennl canilinridci is to lie
digfsteiJ with a gCDilf huiE fur rourlecn day* in
«i|;lit pnriH of oil of iiirpecitlnc. Tlic Bulution
being <(r«d,tn equnl poition of C'aniuln ImUnm in nddcd. The mpc of colUin
to be drawn brtwM'ii ine finger and thumb niid dried." When thii ii uiotl
ive (Hnltiient i» not rcigiiircd. — Eo.
it through, after which knots are tied at
each end of the tape, which may be ron-
or THS HORSE.
CHAP. LVIII.
OPERATIONS.
On CBlSag or throKiiti/ Jotcn a horm ta order to le^urt him Jbr
o/Hirationt.
Homes are tltrAwn down bv means of hobbles, all of whidi
lure repreteiited belon fixed on a hoi'se's legs. The hobble is
7%> mnmoH iutUitt nvl iMt matt of /Uimfi fAnn; ute iMi Mat of mtnit ttiiuiH, I
Ihi ttifirtHl nutioill u/Jimf, ^,
a, EnUtgemcnt of Ihc &txm itindom, uul
fh* *«nie*1 meihiid ur firing.
A. TbamtoripUnt.
e, Tbc *»l of rinitbanc,
tt, 'Die ti»l of rnimiicinciit at (ha *ui-
(iViiKs]: Ugunrnt, Hixl ■ iiiuditCif firing
for ditto.
t. The Kaiof beoeift^ndaim^rf
trlng fin diuu.
/. A onibk ■nd aoMlH*, Umn^ bM m
«4riMU(« mstlwd tJ trbkg.
jh Tbo Mai et c*pprd hook.
A, He tml of iherough pin.
Bboiit tivo fovt in Ic-nj^h, two inches and five eighths in widllh
snil about n qunrier of an inch thick. It is formed hy a strons
fticcc of leather, tibuut four feet in length, which, )>eing doublet
tas a Etron); iron Inickle inclutled at one endi and Jirmly sewed
in. About four inches und a lialf furiher back, a large iron
ring is to be xuwcd in the same manner for llw purpose of
SECURINfl A IIORSK VOR OPERATIONS.
allowing a strong rope to pass t)iroug)i it easily. The ring, or
ratlier (he part bo named, may be made elraight where il it>
sewed inio llie leather, and the rest may be rounded. 'I'lm
remaininc pait of the leather is to be strongly sewed lugetlKr,
which wQl make the thickness ot" it what we have before de-
scribed. Several holes are to be punched at this end of tlic
hobble^ to admit the tongue of the buckle when it is put routid
the bone's leg. On the under side of tlie hobble a pteco of
thinner and wider leather is to be fixed, extending from tlm
I>art where the ring is attached to about half an inch bi-yijnil
the extremity of the buckle; this is intended to pieveiit ilie
latter from galling the horse's leg. The rojie should be strong,
not twisted tight, but made 6exible, like a bell-rope, and about
six yards in fengch. One end of the rope is to be firmly and
permanently attached to the ring of one of the hobbles; and this
nobble must be placed on the fore leg, op[x)site to the side on
which the horse is to be tltrowit. If the hobble to which the
rope is attached is pla«:d on the left fore leg, the other end of
the rope is to be passed first through tlic ring of that on the left
liind leg, then through that oit tlie right hind leg, next through
that on the right fprc leg, and lastly through the ring where iBe
rojH- is Bitachc-d, that is, the left fore leg hobble.*
By this contrivance it will be readily seen that the legs of the
horse may be drawn together, so that if pushed or IbrcecTto wards
ibe right side he must of necessity falL Three men are ge-
nerally required to pull the rope, in order to draw the legs
together; and, to render this more easv, the hind lege should
placed under him as much as possible before any attempt is
I
* Mt. OtoAj! liiu very prniacworthily introducril, ihroiiKh llic meiJiLim of
Vrlermariaii, iioini: improved hobWei wllicli poiseti nil ilic inimiilttWB "(
ihMC jtuit uicnlioncd. und ore fnr mure conveiiiiriit. Uoch of liis liuliMo* ha
MlviM* to bv fimilHlic'd willi a bucklif, ni well us with n U nl Micfi end, of un-
cqMid Miw, to that Mie can ba itutnl throu^jli tlic uth^r. Thii*. i^y mcum of
tM bocktc, th« sIm) of the hobUc can be vnncil lo nt to niit difH-Tcnt ha*, u
well u to unloOM nnj thnl may be required diirinK on Dpcrntion, uiitl Uie
D** will nnble each Icato be free the iaicniil tli« sciuw is wiihdruwii.
Hr. Dawa haa «tiU tuTtberiuproveil titvse bubblm ; ami I caniKit ilo better
dun iotroduce his dourtpuoo of tlK-ni, »t w*!! as hh dnkwing*. «hich arc
given in lli« cicvmth vuliimc oflho Vrifnaanan. He lafi: — "Thcnltcr-
ati(>nii I hnie mode urr, fim, in havinjf the Iron work n li/e liU'i;'^. !io as
lo admit oi an ciuicr pmiajfe for tlie chain, wliicli, in mt opinion, should not
be more ttuii i-iglitem inclius Ions I the Iod^ D's Hhould do on ioch anil a half
wide, and two und n uuurtfir int'hcs long in the clear. The tqiiarc-ii dhoiild
be made suOii'ienilj Isrgc to allow the olhorii to piuit tliroiieli tlicm «i(!i
freedom. Racli hol>b1c nbould haw a curved liiu'kic', two inchci In tJM clou',
tlw Iralhcr of the Mmc width, and Dot leu tliun half im inch in tlncknt-tH. niiJ
rour indies long, with a (lulling leather under eutb bucklf, and ibr li>nj( D
Mtadbed to II by means of an Iron chape und rivets. Tlie strap end ahould
not be kM than eighteen inches long, with the square niuwhcd to it by the
■ne mana ■> above. Inaicad of the courcU recommended by Mr. Oloag, I
DISEAim or TRB R0R8B.
made to putt ilic rope. Tlio Imrsc thouUl Imve blind*, or have
bu eyes ooveretl wiili a piece of rug, bcforv tlie hobble* arc put
on : It may be mxpssary, also, to twiicli him, and hold up tlic
fore W whik' the hirii:! log hobble is putting on. But the twitch
must be removed before he is thrown, and not u»cd uninc
abioluielv iieccssarj'. 'Fid- men who are to pull the rojw should
Bland wiihiii two yardo of the hone, as (hey then pull with
double the force llu-y would at a disuncc of four yiirdii, their
power then having a tendency to draw lite legi off tlie ground
ha*o found it more mawnicnt to lia*e one or the lone 0'* mkde open u tAe
GurvaUire, anil its end tapped for llie icrev, witb iu not] downwardi, w in
the dingruti.
i the iqiurs atluhed. Iwn mil, of tlic D hfing cnnfltclnl U>
Mid D Mtwhcd. {(I'tht't by itiHion tbcl^ ufUie >cn«.
«, Buckle Willi o|>cii D. 'lliU Toulil iL 'Hw liui:>k.
ba imptfltnl «ii<l tlivngtlivntKl \rj ttis
" Tliis )iotibl« I iklways plucc on the near fore ]tg, and it mntten not which
si(l<! tilt honte tics upon otter the ojicnition, at the thiunb.MreH' in rctoonO
with more inxR ihan from the ratirrll. The hook for fccuring I h«m madt
with n iinriiig; and llicrcii noncccHity for D«nnllchaioUt«chM to it. TtUN
holihles nave bttn still ftirllier iiitprovcit by Mr. Bowld, the long D'l betnj
plutcd on the lori;; strj|> oflwoot the bobbin for the off lure aiid hiod liVt in
ibo pluL'e of the ii(|uarv«, by which meant the diaia wUl p«M raiinr aniT the
bucklcJL \ic on llie onliidc.
" l-'nnn the dcKcripliun of these hobbles, it miut be evident that (bey ran
be [ilnced oil thv tcgn und ri.-iiioved with llie i;rt«nl fadKtT. luid nny Iqt that
niny be required ctui bu uiilooiwd by iiieiuui of the buckle during the opcra^n.
Mr. (iluiix adviioi the ehain to be lute and a half vardi loog, ao that then
may be no tDipedinent to the pnuajie ihraufh the D « by the plaea of innctiaa
between the rope and the chain. Mi. Djwi, on the other hand, praim one
of eigltteen inches only. It i« a mutter of tiitle importance khkb plan i*
adopted." — S/iimifr oa lAr Fool.
Mr. Bowlo liBN coottruclcd a new act of hobbles, to which be lias givni
the name of Crou lloliblct. Th^ arc for firing honm while Mniuiin^
shocini; vieioiui aniniulu, doekino, and vnrioiiii other purposca, for which ihn
wilt be found cxireniety uicful. They coniiisl of a nedi collar, to wfaieb k
attached a broad Imther simp. piui<>iiij; between the fere \t^. A atirciDtle ia
paucd over the wither*, en ihrudiie tbi-r airA\i. which rcachea beyaDKl tlM
uniUlicui; a I) buckle h nttncboil. with v,inch arc connected two chains
nlioiil fourteen incliei in lcn)[tli. Tlinc Ir.rniiniitc in two D'* to wliicb Inuha
MrHps lire alTixed br the purpose of buckling cither below or atiovc the hecks,
eoolining the nniinal. — yeifrmaria/i, vol. xiii.
SECUniNO A t[OHSG roB OPBKATtONS.
■■Mia
and upwarcb, wlilcli causes him lo fall more quickly. Oii« nmn
slioulu sund at the rump, on the Icfl side, (o push him whi-n
ttie legs are drawn up together ; and another should liold hini
Meadily by (lie head, standing in front of hitn ; and as soon ax
the horse is down that man should throw liimself on the neck, and
incline the nose upward by iifiing iht- halter; thus he can keej>
the head and neck down without difficulty,
M. Girard, in his TraiU dit J'ictl, has proposed an improve-
ment in throwing horses, which is very simple, and should always
be employed. If t)ie horse is to be thrown on the right side, a
long piece of web or a rope is to be liu;tcncd round the right foi'e
arm, close up to the elbow. The oilier end is then to be passed
over die withers, and Ik'M at a litlk- distance by one or two
men. The force which is applicil in this way will cause the
borse to fall more readily, and with more certainty, and exactly
in the situation where he is required to be thrown. This con-
trivancr, therefore, is extremely useful in confined places, where
tliere is jti«t room enough to throw a horse, and no more.* The
horse Ix-itifj thrown down, and liis legs closely dinwii together,
the end of the hobble rope i* lo Ih- pfiiuieil under the hobble
rings, between the fori- and hind leps and «eciired with a liileh
as it is termed, so that Im cannot separate ibem again until llie
hobbles are unbuckled, and then they all may be taken away at
once, and the horse suffered to gel up.f
In letting the horse gel up again the hobbles must be un-
bucklvtl caotionsly, beginning with the under fore and hind one.
TlK-se should be unbuckled gently, and not jerki-d, m thai
would caii»> the horse to struggle, and render it difficult to
take them off, or the leg might get loose, and he may thus hurt
one of the a«>-istants who btippens to be standing incautiously
within the stroke of his fore or hind leg. J I haw ween hobbles
in which llie longnes were moveable, so ihm by drawing them
out with a poir ofptnceri the hobbles were all lukect ofl'ut onoffx
In performing ojH-r.itions upon tlicliurseit is not only necessary
to throw him ilown as I have described, but in liring the out-
side of the fore leg, for vxainple, in the pHMeni, the bubble mint
be taken off and the leg securi-d by means of a web passed
* A roller round the home's body luid > picco of well nttnchctl t» its iipppr
pnrt U ilill lidCer. One ii>an, iinlciii the hone U very heavy, i* ijuile lufficient
to pull ihia web. If haniU n>c tcurce the ojicrutor liiniaelV can pull the web ;
aii<l he will then require only four other men to aiiaiiit faiui In casting a bone,
slid two inity iil^iT the liorse in ilowii. — Hn.
■|- Th'n trouble b olnialoil by hnvitig n cliain al one cnil of the ropa to poM
throiub ibc 'inj;*, and b hook at llic other end of (he tope, which, Iwing io-
teitea iwu one of the link* ol" the clmin. firmly secures it. — Eo.
X By the imprured liobblc*. all this trouble nnU dnii^er is obiinliNl i nil ihu
i« tienMsry being to reuiure llie jcr«w which loosens all the hobbles at
once — F.i>.
A A
m De-
it Ibnranb
■ hmafat ihe paattm.*
power to «xt«Qd erro the
fae W tamBiatAiy, ad^ a km fie* on ibe shoulder,
ikiMld «1«^* be mmie^ b m beoec to reatimtn the
k^ b« faaiag avvh (MMd k ^Mm dv kaet, aod ftnening
ikeontf ead M Ae hiad leg above dM back. U, then, tfa*_a
mWt tbcr Iqp «e Awa faKkm^ by Hn «r the boh|H
np^ tbe onder Are % will be wBcwiIt expoaed for H^
a|ieiMM» ibat inaT be repaired. In firing loe upper btod leg,
in the paMera, it 'is neccnary ■» tike off tbe hobble : but ue
ley mam. fitM be »eMwd b; wwni of a mb, Eattroed abore lla
bMt» and the other «ad brani^ Sarw^M, and. ondcr a collar of
wefav paaed ixNmd the ncdk* ck»e to tbe rbouMer. The Irg
may uiu> be eflcctuallT mtniaed: but. as an additional i^
■traini, it my be tied %bo to tbe auder bind Iw.
la ■ecorijig a iMcir for caKration, he should be placed on hb
left udr ; the ri^t hiod leg iboald then have one web placed
abovf tbe bocki and another abo*« tbe past<m ; both of ihtw
weba thould ilii-n be panvd undrr the c<^Ur, and \hv leg drawn
up as far an posi>ib!(.% or until the liiml foot i* brought consider^
Buir berot»d the fotr Wg. Here it mi»t be ftnnly securrd, for
unwM this is done, the operator will be in great danger. Whea
the upper hind \es n ihus secured, the testicles will be coBl*
pletek exposed. 1 have found it useful, also, in this opctatioB.
tu mnke a man lie down on iIil* horde's body, and grasp ibc boiJc
and liind leg with ht* hands ; this seems to confine tbe leg nare
coni|>l('i(.'ly.
Anodtc-r method of hampering a horse is sometitne* eii>*
ployeit, but is for front being so safe or eBedual as ihruwbff
nim down, litis is termed the side line, llic rope hobble n
hiii-klnl oil one of the hind legs : the rope is then brought for-
iriird tK-lwM-n tin- furi^- h-gii, and over the opposite sliuuhWr; llic
end is llteii pasard under thv rope at tl>c chest, and after draw-
< InMcBil nt thai web the crou ■traps are much more ooavanlsnl sod
■Murc 1 ihry roii^t of four ttnipa, one of ahkh ii buc|[tei''o«i cadi kg tbott
ih« hmlk* nnJ kiicvK. >nd two of (hciii arc funiHlK<il nith bucUes sad lb
utliRnt witli urat» (linl convt|ii)ud i<> ih«ac bucklo. Thus thv Icm of the
•nimnl sro aJiJiiiuniilljr accuroJ, nnJ ihc iinips ma be lightenal or mAtB^
M «c plemc. Wh<n it u nttttmrj to utibuckle s |M>Ulc^ u ia ibe Mm
opsnulon. « ■ ■ ' "
mhI draw*
iho Rimpi I
uc. n u«n It u neccmu7 lo utiDucaie s aowie^ u la IM turn
, and in RtIm tbe BHtvnu. s piec« of web i» tOppni round thi foat
■ fornsTd^ w wfaicb innuit the mtb pullii^ Ja aB« direction, wnl
I in niiother, the Icy <■ iiniightcnnl niuiwttund, — En.
i
rmiNfi. 3A5
ing u)) lite leg tiilficiently. it i« Kocured in iliis situation wilti s
liitcli, vrliicl) may Ito ({uickiy lixiM-netl in cnse of llie liorse'a
Rtruffglin^ M ai to be in danger of tiilling. Tliin contrivance is
nmdrrcd mud) more secure if (lie liorse'» head Im- firmly secured
to n nlrniig ritiir in the manger, and Lis liind jiam iiijipnrCei] by
a brcecbiiig, wnile kicking si)d lying duwti may be j>revenled by
a buck and a lielly strap.
'Hicre i* a permanent contrivance for securing a borae in tliia
way, named a break, or a Irevia, I once knew a imne die by
strujrgling in a break, therefore I con*ider them dangerous:
Um^ ate chie% used in nicking and docking horses, and in
shoeing vicious animals. A plate, and description of a break,
may be found in Bouigelat's •' Essai sur les Appareils et sur los
Bandages propres aux Quadrupedes."
Another method is commonly employed in throwing down
cattle. A long rope is doubled, and tied in a bow at the
doubled end, of sulncicni size to go over the animal's head, and
rest at (lie bottom of his neck like a collar. The two ends, of
equal length, arc then to be brought down between the fore and
bind legs, and one of llio end« round each hind leg. The ends
of the rope arc now drawn forwards on both sides, by which the
hind legs are so <irawn up under the belly, that he is easily
pushed down, and must then be secured.*
Firing.
[The priocipai object of this opi'miimi is to prodtice consider-
able superficial inflammation, and thus, by counter-initation, to
ithdraw it from some decp-^eatcd part. It also causes a
^ «HdM «oin that liSTC never been bnnillecl. uml likewise lomc vicions
it, dMn If a dlflcultlTi eod tamvitBm an iinpoHibiliiv, in pWing ihc
bobMe* on iho hind Iqpi. To obvlnlc ihio, ilie cole may be thrown bj- a com-
moti corl rnpc, or, whut n much bcCtcr, l>j- the following contrivDncc rccom-
inendeil bj Metars. Simoniln nnd Wiirdlc: —
" Tt ooRsists of (WO ronp«, to the end of unc of wblch wu sowed n leather
soap with a buckle nttncnrd to it, and to the other another Ht>H|> with hnic*
pitncod in it. At ihr (liiitiincc of fi^ccn inchr.t from ihvsr rnilo, ihr rojinn
were lewed together b* jlronn wuntil ihrnul. When thin iioinl ol* union wus
placed under the iieolt, utul ciie en'lii huckleJ lui^tlier, the miirn romied a
collar for the nock, and couUI he •iHcki-ned or ii^-liiened nt jik^^ure. To
e«ch *idG of ihiii ra|>o collar, om) lomcnhni nraror to the pmnt of union ihni)
to the buckle and Rtrnp, an iron ring woi nllnchcd on cnch *iile, incloted in S
|>irce of rofHiig.
These rone*, diviiling nnJer the neck, were passed between the legs and
under the Mlljanit roiin<l tlic biml le^x on ench side, And llien brought
rorwnni oiiuiile the Iec<, nnd the r\[reniilii;« pumed tlirou);h the iron lonpi
at the tlionldcr on oncii iiidc. Wlien rverj' Ihinf; was mdy, the ropet nerc
tcnti)- lovriTcd 1(1 tiie lii-els, utid, niiininfi over ihc hollow of the hccU, ■>* ■
kind of piiUejri the colt wii-i hrou^ht down in un instant \ty a mun on each
aide pulling nt the portion which hud pH^ocd ihrun;-h the ring." — Eo.
A A*2
J
Bt'nOICAL OPERATIOSS.
[thickening, and contraction of the skin, and tlius occnaiofu, in
•ome defrree, a permanent bandage. It produces coiuiderable
pain, ana leaves a blemisl) : it therefore sliould Dot be employed
vniiecesiiarily, but when had recourse to, it should be done
ellii:iiinily.
This operation is sometimes performed standing, but goniTally
the horse is thrown. For curbs ringbones, and whenwer the
auriace to be fired is inconsidenihle, and the animal is lolenbly
steady, we may fire standing, the horse being secured with the
aide line for the hind leg, and one foot hela up, when tlic ton
leg is operated on. A twitch s)>ould alwavs be used. In other
cases, the horse may be cast, which is (ho safest method, and the
legs secured in the manner belore stated.
The firing iron should have a smooth round edge, nearly ai
thin as tlie edge of an old shilling. The skin shoidd never be
penetrated ; but the cuticle sliould b« destroyed, and a dark
Drown impression left on the skin, from which there will be a
glutinous exudation soon after tlie operation, when the iron has
bwn properly applied. 'I'hf hair sliould be cut off from the
part previously to the oiH'ralioii, as closely as possible.
Messrs. Turners advise for many cases to fire quite through
the nkin, which they find far more cfTeclual than the common
metiiud. 'Dh' irritation, by this plan, is kept up much longer,
and the benefit i* greater, an<) it will no doubt succeed in rt-
liiovinj; liiitiencM in many ca»c« whi-n the iituiil plnn will alto-
gcllii'r tikil. It is liable, however, to con^ideruble objection, on
account of the long time ncci'ssary to keep the horse in tin.'
stable, and also from the great blemish it produces. To obviate
these objections, and at tlie same lime to derive il>c benefit of
deep firing, I Jiavi- been in the habit of penelrnting the skin
with a small pointed iron in nitmcrotis places, cither on the fired
lines or without them, according to the nature of the case. Thi»
plan I have found to create little or no blrmi^sh, end is yet
aticntk'd with considerable advantage. A horse may or may not
he bliitlered after firing, according to the degree of irritation
we wiiih to pio<Uice. There is much diflcrcncc of opinion as lo
the bwl direction for drawing ihc lines in firing, some pre-
ferring a vertical, others a horizontal, and some an oblique
direction. The first plan is the best adapted for forming a
bandage, the second for leaving little blemish : but for my own
part, lor ordinary purposes, I prefer the third or feathered form,
conceiving that it unites the advantage* of both allowing tt»>
hair to cover the mark, as in horizontal, and lorming a bandagi-
As in vertical, firing. It is a bad plan to cross the line, as iliiti
bolates the skin, itud is thus likely to increaae tl>e blemish. — En-]
NICKINO. 057
Niekinp.
This operation is now seldom performed : it consists in weak-
ening or destroying the power of the flexor muscles of the tail.
This IS done by making two or three iransverse incisions on the
nnder part of the tail, through the skiti and muscles. The
lioTse should be thrown down for the purpo§c, or put into what
is termed a break. Tlic first ineiRion should be about two or
three inches from the origin or basis of the tail, continuing it
from one of the sides where the hairy part terminates, lo the
otli«r, and tiuito down to the bone, except in tlic centre, where
ihe kkin only should be divided. There are some, however,
who go deeper than this, by which there i» more bleeding. The
second incision should be made in a siniiljir manner, and three
inches dtxtani from the first, and to widi the tliini. On making
the second incision, ihe ends of tht; muscles will protrude
through the first, and must be drawn out with forceps, and cut
off; tlie same with the second. This being done, it is itsual to
place Iwndages round the incisious, and ilien put the tail in
what iB n-rniL-d a pulley, which may Iil- -leen in the sinhles of
hoi-sc-dealers, and need not be descrilx-d. Tlie weight first
applied to keep the tail up should be moderate, not exceeding
three pounds; and it is necexmry the following nioniing to
loosen the bandages, or cut them through on Uie back part of
the tail. By negTecting this precaution, a serious and even fatal
inflammation has taken place. In about three days matter will
form, and then the bandages will fall off. They must on no
account be forced off; but the loose ends may be cut off with
scissors. A large gaping wound will then appear, but it re-
quires no kind of dres&ing, and is generally completely filled up,
and sometimes cicatrised in about aixteen days, or three weeks.
About the third or fourth day aficr nicking, the weight employed
to kei-p the lail up should be increased to six or seven pounds;
and the iransverse line upon which the pulley runs may be
|>lac4'd a little further back, so as to bring tlie tail a little ox-er
llie Ixick, After a week, the horse may l»e led out for exercise,
and if he carri<^« Ins tail on one side, the pulley on the irans-
vAve line should be so conhned as 10 draw the tail in a contrary
direction, for a sufficient time to make him carry it straight.
The tiuw of kwping the horse in die pulh-y i» from three weeks
to a month.
^This cruel and unnecessary operation has now gone into
genermi disuse in England, though it is still practised in Indand,
Ed.]
A A 3
358
eUBOICAI.
Docking.
AconvMiient inBtruiiwut for docking, or cutiinj; oflT ■ ^mw^
tail, is sold by Mr. Long, nnd oOier v«terin«rj- instruineiit nukm,
JiveUt Kuffi.
The •mnielrci.Ur ooUh raNava* Uio uU, wbiA » hdd Ml bj- •■ anrtjiiit, mwI tt*
oporilor pimdng on Uw haadlc> \>i oac molioa diit^ Uis uil.
London. Coluiuay l>v docked cvpn while suckers ns >t gt-nerally
renders nicking unnvcf«sary> Tlie tail should be dividtnl u a
joint, wliicli may be asocruiiiKrd from l>eing somewltat (liickef
tlian the oihcr parts. It U nwesaary to apply a hot iron aftef-
vrnrdit to §Iop ih« blc«Iing, bui it should only he of a dull red
ihvu, and smaller than it grn«tally employed, so us not to eear
'the skin, which is Llic inotl tensitive pari.
On the Nertx Operation,
Tilts oi>cratio« was discovert'd by Mr. .Scwt-ll, Assistant Pro-
f<<«sor of thf Veterinary Collegia, and lirst communicated by iiim
to the Roynl Society.*
* " Tliii opmllvn ii likcviic known hj ihc iKRcrait ap|)rlliilKin« oft
unncrvine, unci neiiratoiiiy, nnd coiiiiata in th«divi*k>ll UkI ciciiiuii olay
tion at £t mcuoiqw) or plaiitBr ncnrt, ihtit deurojiq; SWiwliow in
foot. The nervta wluth srix: (torn th« xpinul calaoa hara beOB fimad b;
ihc ducuvcties of Sir Chulcn Bell and olhcr* to hnre a doubia ori
rroiii the bnck, or, in brutes, up[icr[>iirt of ihi- cant bj unnmbcr on
wliii-h coulciL-c, and iben form a tort of knot ailed a niiglkm | ifae
portian riKi in a Rouicwliut Kiiiiilnr manner froia (ba unacr or anteriort
ol >lie spiiMil culuiun, nnd joiiii ihc oibi^ wilboiit Eomia^ any pii^lio«i.
ibuugh the nerve* are ap|inrcntl,v uiiiied, tlie lilatneMs ore yci dutniet, aadl
linvingt it* ncurikma or nervuun covcriiig. Th« formur ii the ocrve which
(•(iinmuniculrn neiDntion ; llic hitler thtil wltKh ronvvja th« power of BodMb
and a [liirt ia i-nUnvrcd tnn«ll)' with ic»intion or with nKilion, accaf>iliE« at At
(lluiiiei)tti oflhcfonncr or orihc hitter predouinMe. It it a law of nalure
thul no (truciurc nor function in ever supplied in a siiutlion vlictc it cannot
be brought into operation ; coniiiri|tientI]r, at the motion of ibe liinbt it (Atied
t^ aMBDt of eoninction of the mimi'lc*, nml iht-ro sra iw inutclos below ih*
knee, there pre therefore: no motor nerve* Iwlow Uicknact anMaiioa * — '
incut off; and |>uin beinj; the ctiite of Uinmen, thctrSect ceaact with l'
iiKiviil of llic ciiust.
The honour at the ducuier; uf thi« iin|Kirtaat opumtion iMtonp to
THE NEnVK orXRATION.
359
It consists in cutting out a portioii of tW metacarpal or
pastern n«rvcs on each side. 'I'lit? portion cut oul, lie directs,
alwuld be one inch or more. 1 have ffenerslly pcrfonned the
oj>craiion above the fetlock (see ihv Plate), in order to destroy
pUir of rAt .\rrrt Opcntlim ihaim ilic iHuiiiuo of the wcliun both in (ho
■iitt Inirtr u[i<<ialiuii mi ih* iiuid* uf (he Ick- Hii- ikin ii hcltl Iwok by
in (irdpr In ttUptu; Ihp furta, Biid fur llic hiriitf ]i»rpu»c inoTu i>f Ibc cui-
■nvmbrane ia nina'i«<l Oitn i* iwcmsry in thr <i|ictatiiin.
m, A probe paatd iinclor lb* nonrf.
b, Tb« nonft
e. The awtmj.
d, Tb* bask unnr*. or Homc lendoni.
perfor
a. 'riiP iiWTV.
^ Thp arlory.
<■, 'Vhv win.
A A bniiipli of Ibc norvR l>#lvTvn Uio
wn «nd ■rWiy, not divided in iho io'
oponitiuu.
SevdL Wc RrctaU that Mr. Hooreroft tad other* hail prcvioutl)-
peHormed It, but, be thin u it mnt, thtj anv pubBcly introdund or rccom-
mtnded it. and could therefon- bavc hw no confidenM in ita meriu It wa«
Mr. Srwcll, nii<l lie alone, wlio firti goiicrullv pnu:(ia»il and recomniended it
for incumblc Ibol lomencM. I.lkc iiioit otdci' dincovrrirs it ha* met wllh
MB«itantt, Truni all i[iiancri'. bcilh in ihe profcBion and out of it; Hn<i not n
few of (hoiii liiivf bt-ni owing lo the carcltni nnJ indiacriiuiniUe mntinrf in
whirh many |irnrlitiunera have performed ir, hce>lU'tM altogether ta to (lie
nnturc and hi^itciry of the caae, or of ll>e work tbo liorte H-a« aft««Hrdii to
perfbrnt. Thii mu the fact more pnrticiilnrly during [he carl)' days of (he
Dperatiou. Tlicrt- were HrojUF liorotn nil over (hu country far more than
inerc arc nt prcnvnl. [lurlii-nlarly in cuutliei. Many of theie had b««n lame
for yearit, nnd were at onee subinllled to tlie ojicniilan, and •oon afteiwnrds
rcMuncd their woi'k nt ii (["iik [lare on Ihe riind ; the eon*ei|uonre itax, in a
A A 4
sfttetCAt> nrrRATlom.
ibe Mtttibility of ihr foot oniircly ; but am inclined to liiiil
ihu thv lowrr ofierBiion ia prt-fcrable ; aod lliis. 1 believe, is if
opinion of Mr. Colfnwn snd Mr. Sewel).*
To perform the nerve operation to as to render tlic foot cora-
tiletety iosenaible, tbt- rallowiiig directions must be roilowed, m
being the beat and tnsiest method I am ocquainU'd with, and
' of CUM, tbe indaoMiiuioB, (IM, pprhm, had ne««r Mbaided, becuw
■tly mtw—eJ bv the rcnewNl of •«*«« Ibmmt ud ibt aoowal bobbmi
Lh obicli ibe anlnal pot bit Too* lu the ([ntuDd ond bore hu m^t npoa
•welGnt and aottU fixwMaiions nutvceded, or, w other uMmtem, w^
punnion MificrrcAod, the hoof lUiiighcd olf, mhI the anfanal «m oUiged tc be
■hot.
ia otbcr coacs. wlicre Itmenen bju cxiited lor jiii». ami olccntion htd
been Being on lo u gmt exttnt. and the Sexm rinew bad beooinc ettemiaiad,
the hoTM with thr mnoval of p*in nnd liinieneBa, no lo^er berinf thae
ot^rn uttfttl iminitorii lo icll him of the (Ofttrnueoce*, trcedt boUljr oe thCM
di»ca*cd pWts, uid ibv Uiiii >tocw whicb, pcmapa, never would hare pnn
W8T aa hag a« the foot poeacBMi teataUan. tuddoihr aaap* Eke a thread,
and ibe hone prrtenti the Hd atpect of walkEiig eaorelf on bi* heeU, the
|4ocb«i(Ut elevated from thcBoM. XMwiihMnmling thnc ilejdonible r^
laulta, wnUi the pmctiliuncr would alvvy* brt in miiid nbcn he r«^^o<nmmk
the optntioa, in spite or their *ery frtqutnt occurrence in time* put. ami
their ocnMOoal recunence at the praaeat iley> the ofwraxtoa alill coniinut*
to be ncccailklt^ practiMii, when perfbrnKd with discrctkin, aed proper care
It eserciaed aftcrwardi i and abboiKh it ia vilifiod b; a few tcterinary wN
qeoot. Bad often eoixleinned bjrthe jgnonnt as a crwl and befbamae open-
"tioa inficiad on a iliiinh crrattve, *c( I, for my o<in part, havi^ Urtj teaied
1 awilli matt regard it m one or the moit rotnirnl and hnnaae operaliow
at MTgical eeiencG ha* ever inircnted for the rclkf of auScring (piadrapeda.
f — JJaeon^' on lie Pool.ic.
" There nre two situations for the opcmtion of nouroiomy, the hij^ and
the low, the former being aitovc ihc btlock, end the Uttrt jiiht below or apon
it. l''ai'h i>r Ihcc litiiatioiii nre Bitcnded with pecuUnr advantage* aad di^
advantngci, the nature of which it ia well to understand. It niMt be boma
in inin<l that euch mi-tucuipal nerve. ju«t above llie IVtloeL joint, ipvcs of an
hinponnnt brunch, whidi takM nn oblique courw lownrd* the IVont tk the
CMtema and deacenil* to the coronet, on n hicb it is dbpcricd oAi-r fiTins off
rnnrhca to the neighbouring porta. This bciii^ tb<.- cue, it must bo evident
that if Oie o|ieration be perfoeined below the Uc|>arture of thin brancii, the
'*~aM of the loot .iiul corDiici will )<n1l ponRem n degree offoeling of much un-
[anee to the animal, and which will ennblchim to trarct with agmter d^
:«f oafctr than he wuuld pooeeaa if (enwtiun were entirely cut otL
When, th'cn-forv, we bare rcau>n to be pri-ttj' certaii) that the diwaici)
I liinilftl entirely to the aphere of the nnvicnlnr joint, noil the horse i> of tat-
Itficicot value lu niaJto the poMCUion of a vlislit Jt^irce of scnntlion an obJtA
liOf importance, we may jmlly girc d prcft^rence to thv low n|ieraltaii. In
[ifcrourof this situation, it is jiroper tu tnvntioii tliut Mr. Svwel generally ad-
f'viata and (iractiaea the low o|>eratiun. Uu the other band it mux be eb-
Vaaned, that, although the low operation ^enerHlly rcmovea the lameiwas at
first, yet it ts by no means unfrequent fur it i» rcinm lume week* or nionihi
afterward*, either from ibc cxlcniiMa of the diseiuL- l<r,tonil the if hereof the
joint and the dominion of the nerves Hhute nource is cm olT, or oibcrwi*t
from sotne nnnatomoain of lu-rvea n hieh eaiinot eanily lie anatooikaltgr tnctd.
— .^wuiKT on Me Fovl, ^c.
w.
unifonnl^ producing ihe desired effect.* The incision aliould
begin between three and four incliea above the fetlock joints
that is, (he most prominent part of the side of the joint, and
extend downwards for an inch and a half. By makinc a free in-
cision in the space that is felt between the bone and ligament,
and the tendon, the nerve may be almost immediately exposed ;
and it ii only necessary to remove a little cellular membrane,
and then it will be distinctly seen: one inch or more of the
ntTve is usually cut out. Ihus the foot may be rendered ab-
solutely insensible, and tlie lameness cured, if a proper subject
has l>een chosen for the operation. TJiere are many circunv-
suinct^ to be considered with rc»^pect to the nerve opi'ration, and
it in a lubjeet of such importance as to demand u full and tm-
pnrtinl eoniii deration. Before tins ojwration is iH-rfiirnied, all
the circumstances of the case should be cnrefuUy iiiqnired into,
and praclilioners should be canlioiis as to the tiubji'CC-^ ihey
lecl for the openition.-|- It lias been u subject of admiration
Borore the oprrntion i« pcrrormcil it i» ncceirtBrv, nny, nil importflnt, lliat
the ieg >hoill(l be cool, nol umiplr ficc from iiillnmmacinn, biic m n >talc of
prctwnataral coldness. If the pniciitioncr venture on tlie (ipcralion bcTorc
this Mate li pfoclurL-d, hu *il\ iiave, at beM.n very iruiil)1('B<»ni- alFiiir fruni die
VMCularit)' of the tmaller lilooii-VDMels ; it will occupy n iiiucli longer lim?,
lind fron ibc greater diiaoctjan of porlj rcqniml, the woiiott will noi Granulnlo
M> wtU nor so quickly, but will Icuvc n much crtatcr blcmUb than oilicr-
wisc ; the It^ for some days pn-viously tlioutil he immened in a tiuckci of
cold WMtcr several times a dny foe hnlV sii hour lit a time. — Jl^raoncr on tic
■f The nnturc of the caaci wliicli justly call for the oDcmtion of neurotomy
dcnwiifa peculiar attention, ax veil as those from which w« have the b«Kt
raaaon to anncioatc viicrco*.
Diamucs of the nmirulor Joint eapnile form the bnik of foot lamenrHiin,
■nd, consequently, those whith too frequently, from tlieir incurable nuiurr,
oall for the tud of neurulomy. If the loot be strong, and theri- h but tittie
contraction, Ihe oprrniion is more likely to tuccccil; but nhould ihrrc he »
great deal of rontrnciion (here ic dnUKcr of inrtamniDtory nrtion goiiift on c\-
Icmtl to tlie joint, nnil calnnieinciitii of a soft tipun^o nature taking plac-. If
the foot is flat uTitI wciik ihr operation i« not tu bi- reeoiiimendciJ, m there is
0Mt dsnger to bf n|ipri'h<-nclcil from briiiHct nnil prirkx in shoeing. And
acre it may be obicrrcd thai jirrat care should be nlwni* used in shoeiiig
■Aerwards i the smith should be cautioned tliat the foot iloea not poasev iu
usbbI tffiui^lcy, and ilint he luiisi not expect Iha horse to flinch from the naU
going too cloic; cvrry nail must therefore be driven with iinususl rare. The
opafWioa is lomeiitnes performed for ria([bonei and oi»ificniion of the enr-
lilage*. In thcne eaten we must ulways suppose that other ireutment haa
been previously tried without siiecMSi and we must bear In mind that from
ibna miiflc depositioiu there hnx lieen considenible lot* nf elsslieity, nnci,
«HMet}uentlv, ^rcnt canruciion : nnd ihut the orK^ruiion is likely to mcrense
■Ilia coticuaaion, bv preventing that care being taken wliich pain and lameness
iiHluocB. Thia being the case the operation should not he pi'rforincd unle>i>i
lIlB hone be too bmc to be uiefiil ; nnd, niter the ojierotion, menni ihoiild ho
BMil to tRWtl oir eoncunion by the inierjiositian of lenlher betwi-en the foot
and the ahoe, and (he emplm-ment of tlie horse in modenite work only. The
opcmdorn should not be periomied when there are corus, unless ihcy arc very
i
3B2
KtrnCICAL (tPEtlATIOM&
antl astoimhmcnl, that altlioii<;h iIil' i>i>rrou> rommunication]
will) Uie loot has been cotiiplftdjr cut off, ilw M-crt>t)ng arlerithj
as th<^ are tcrtnvd, continue to )>crfonn tlioir functioiu at mNJ
as before."
Id ()cl<.-rminin]f upott Hut expediency of [wrrorminfj the nti
operation, It is n<-ccMaiy to conitickT, not only wlutt prohabilit
then! i* of iu being niocmiful, or in what degree it may be m^
bnt likewise whether the chance of cure a equal to ilie expenie
of ihc operation, wkI that of keeping the horse before Ive is 6l
for work. Tlie exjienae of kei-p iie«l not be consitlerablc ; for
nfler n fvw weeks, or ^veii bt-tore, he niay be turned to gnt*t
where he aJiould be kept two monthi; and tlien may be put to
work. Now, if the expense of the operation and the expense of
keep can be afforded, tttere can be no ob}ection whatever to
the operation. Kdief lix>m pain and lameness is, in almmt all
eases, iounediale and certain ; and the duration of thb relief, if
litnitod, may extend to a period of some months, or even yeart;
and MO complt'io is tlila relief, llutt during this period the horse
may do considerable work without sulfering pain.f But thm
are cases of lameness where the relief it affords is complete and
permanent. These cases may be known by lltere being no
deformity in the hoof, no ov-ificaiions about tlie coronet or
■D^hl I because thess eoms sra Ukdjr to Inenaso snil IcbM-, wUfeont
■nmial tealil^ng tliMT cxittonce by th« oxhilHtMn of ls«MBets.^;^Mtmfri
Ilk Fool. 4f.
* ll wu doubtet) wbLii Uie apcrration ws* Cnt introduced, and (fafr* i
some wbu doubt it still, wticilicr if nerpout comsnunknuofi were cut off t
pruiicr Mjcretion of jpnit* could be csrtied on in lbs foot. TIm &ct. bower-,
la, U\ero arv a tot of ncrvci which mippl.v the vnriou* sncriei of the body willi
norvoiM cncTj^v of s peculiar Liiid. luil which arc indepenilcni of thoss et
rommon ncnaaiiun. boti) in their nalur«, diBlribiilioa, sod cuurw. Aco
ingly we fiiiil thul llir liixtf nnd other partii of the foot sro rv|>rodiK»i '
ihH HUiw onrrsv aTicr ihc nperulion w before ; snd cmi cuentive wot
liHTC been round to hvul with erjunl f'tlitiitr. We hove here tnuch ptsanrs i
iderring hi ftirlhrr inrotTUuliuii to Mr.'VouaU^i betutirul liictiirca ia ~*
FtU*i»«ri»n, «horc the xcpanilc funciioins of the iicrrouB syateai sre
mtrably onforcoJ and clearly cxplwncd. — Spammer oh Hie Foot, jv.
f Wc have here collected no lets ihon lUty-thrcc rase* of tli« soco
perfoniiaorc of nviiroiomjr, Be»ilf all of them being on bones tlwa
aound a coniridcntblo linic ■llcru'ar,'*, tonia of thcni t>«n)C huiitnl, nod oti
Hverdy woikfd. C>f lhei>c caics we find twcot]r-»erai, in nhkli it is
iitcntionod whether the ajMnlion bm purfanncd ubote or below the fictk
Tht-Ti- arc eight canes of the low o[)f ration on one leg. anil two in mUt^ |
was titiis piacljiiod on both Iff*. Wc hnvc ihincen ewes of ibe hi^ apt
lion, lunc out of uhich ntc ononc fore Itf, two on l)oth foee tegf, one on •
■ide of the leg only, and one on both U^.but one >ido of cnch. Besides ot
we hnvc «U csMS in which it wa* pcrfbrmeil on one or both himi Iqp. The
Sire many other rases mentionod. iliongh not reluiod i ami ihuc mm two '
atanci't ui which thsapnauon faileil."— ^iF^vwrM* fAr FoH,^,
k
THE NERVE (>IT.nATION'. SAB
pastcm. and no pwUcular appearance of tnjuiy about the fet-
lock joint*.
The horse being thrown down and secured, according to the
direction* f^ven under that head, an incision is to he made
through tlie skin, three inches above the most prominent part
of tlie fetlock joint, when viewed sideways, and just within the
Bexor taidon, or hack sinew, as repre§ented in the plate of the
nerve operation. The incision having been carried quite
through the skin, the white cellular membrane will appear;
this must he carefully hHed up with the forceps, and as carefully
and gradually dissected offi and then the nerve will appear
(as represented in the figure). As soon as the nerve is seen,
a tenaculum, or a large crooked needle, armed with a little
small twine, is to be passed under it, from within, outward,
in order to avoid puncturing the artery; and, with (he same
view, the point of the needle may be blunted in the most
trifling degree. A needle should be made for the puqjosi-, not
quite so crooked as iJicy commonly arc, and curved only towards
its extremity. The needle then may be taken out, and the
ncrvebeinKgenllyliftcd lip with the twine, the cellular membrane
underneath may be enijipcd away with a pair of sciMors, or
with a knife, can-fully, so as to admit of a slender curved bis-
toury being passed under it without touching the nerve with the
e<lge; as soon as this i? done, ami the nerve cleared up to the
highest part of the incision, llie pmbe-poinlcd curved bi*toury
13 to be puMerl under it at the Iiiglicst i»ari, and the iii'rve
auickly divided by a drawing kind of a stroke. This is necessary
lat the nerve miiy be divided with a* little violence as possible:
for, when tt i« done with scissors, or by lifting the knife directly
tip, or with a knife ihai doeii not cut writ, a thickening will re-
main at the upj)er extremity of the divided nt-rve, with consider-
able lendemesa; and when this hnpjK-iis to In- slriick in g"iiig,
it gives ibe horse intolerable pain, and makes him go lame for a
short time. The nerve cannot be divided with too keen an in-
strument, or loo gentlv. The division of the nerve causes great
but momentary [min, like that of an electric shock, apparenily,
and the horse's struggling at tluit moment must be guarded
agaitut : but as soon as it is done, the pain of the operation may
be coiwidcred B8 over : the inferior portion of nerve is then to
be laid bold of by the forceps, and from an inch to an inch and
a half cut out. Die skin may be closctl with one stitch, for no
bandage or drt-ssing is required. For the first four day$, the
leg should be sponged several times a day with tepid water; on
the fifth the stitches will give way and the wound will o]>en,
but thin mui«t not be attended to. No kind of dressing is neces-
»ary ; the wound will be completely liealed in four weeks, and
J
864
fluSoici
llicn, or ev«n n week before lliis time, t\w Uonc may be tarncf!
to griua, aiid ihcre be may be kept tbrcc weeks or loi^vr.*
• The hoTM being taat In' Uw nfltbod Iwlbrc ulfbod with the log to bf
D|>enti«d upoii upp«ra»oati th« tnm rtnmi arc u> be budded oo, the web ip-
n' m1 to the foot j<»t >ba*e the heels of the •hoe, which beinff tbca rricMcd
III th« hobble » drawn forwanli bv on assiMant, fO that by tbe ctmb i
puUiiw Id one ilirectioii anil ilie wtb U>u other, thu leg t* brought
iirai^ht. A iruM of Airaw eorereil with a hano-do4h. or a \»g wm
■traw ii ihcn to be inter^KMcd under the kK to be operated on. ao aa to i
it a linn und tccure restine-filBCc ; and k piece m tape ma)' be tied
round tile leg. juat below the knee, to as to Haitbti aniMtlon. Theo|
bavinj nil hi* intlrumenin in rcudiiieM, will-ftnd it eonrmicat to kned on me
knee. In a vcrj- well-bred hor«e the ptilaation of the iirtvry on the inaide ol
the IcR mny be locn, and. in tnoRt hones, felt tn the hollow between the dcxot
iMldoni and siuui-ntKiry 1i);aiiient. During felt tl, a fVee veettcal falcWon n
to b« nude, wiili a convex-ed^ed Hi-<tliict, ftboul two inche* and n half (bote
tbo fetlock joint, und »li£litly (utitcrior in the artery. The inciiion bj ■
•ccMid application of ihc knife i* to be Icmthenod to about «o inch i ' ~
quarter. A linle eellulur niifiubrane may BOtt be eonovtd hj mcena c
anifu aniJ foreejn, »o a« lo di^tiiigolsli the artery front the ticrve. The i
lity of cellular membrRue necefory ii> l>c removed oill dniend on the
of the horse, and the *tale of the Iqii i if the}- are ver; cteno, it b (a _
iKcouary to remove any j and the leu taken any the better, and the momt
will the wound ImoI.
This knil^ ibould W disrii on Ilia point, and eiU both on Ibt
rtlgtt.
lie and enum
Tbe polul of Ihii tmte mirj b« rvadiljr |iim«d Biider Ihe acrrc. wbleh tatf iben br
dmded by iti oontaTC cd^c.
Having elcnrty miulc out the ncrre and artery, a currtd needle tlireadal it
to b« paued uiidi-r tlie ncn-v ut the upper part o( the inriiion | the thread b
thru to be cut and twisted Mvcral tiiiieB with the lift hoiid. by wbirb it it
tlilthtly drawn up, whilst it is separated I'tuni (lie artery and ccUukr n>ei»
bntac (uffidently for a peobe pomieil bistoury to be pa»od under it, which
being done, the nerve is quickly divided, tlic pain of whieh indoccs the aninl
to struggle violenily, but thin Btruale i* generally the hut he nMhca. Hie
nerve is now lo be carefully dlMoeted out to the full extent of the tncisian.
The edges of the skin inay or may Dot be conneeted with sututta, but the
bandige ikould be applied, and the horw (umcd tor the operation on the
other tide.
The inside of the leg reiinireti more rare thnn the ouhide, ioamuch as thr
iieivo lio close to the artery in the former, und in the latter there ia im arttfv
CASTRATION.
863
Castration,
The b«t mctltod of performing thia operation i» thai com-
monly t-mpioytd, Jind one your old i» ilit; bfitt period.*
The horsi: (x-ing thrown un liie left hide, and tho right
hind \*fi drawn up to llie shoulder, as pri'vioiwly dt^cribrd,
the operator is to grasp the testicleii with hi» hund, ho that the
skin over the testicle may be tense and eaiiily divldt-d, an JnciMoii
is t]ien to be made through the skin, about three inchcH in
ltfn$;th, rather more than leas. He Is then to proceed gradimlly
with his knife until a little fluid or water issues, by whicli he
may be sure that the vaj,'Lnal sac is opened. Into this opening
one of the blades of a pair of scia^ors is to be- introduced, and
when this is done the vaginal sac is laid open with the scissors
to the same extent as the incision in the skin. The testicle now
comes readily out, and after a litde tini«, when the cremaater or
retractor muscle has relaxed sufficiently, the cord is to be placed
between the dam;, so that the whole of the testicle, willi the
epidvdimis, may be oul*idc the clams, 'llic vas deferens may
be divided befoi'e the clams are put on ; but Uiis is of no im-
portance, as their being included in the clams does not increase
the pain. The clams must be made very tight, or the cord will
■lip through the moment the testicle is cut oif. When, however,
the testicle is cut off with the nearly red hot tiring iron, the
very near it. It is l>«[tc^r, tlierdbre. to DptTBt« on the inidcte of (he Ice (Int.
The precise sicustloii of the nerve: if pretty iiiucli lli« Mine in evvry horie^
beinj; in the innidr, ■iomcv'hnl lichiiij aad witliin (ho Wlerv ; aiid in the out-
sitle rnlhcr newer (he iincw thnn the liKomenl. When the low nprrntioii h
[irefrrrcU ml incision a to be niiiile just behind the coumc of the after j, which
may be felt, and evleiidiiii; ftutii aboul I he uiiddJe of the fetlock joint to oomc-
Mbat bi'low It. After (lie (i[ieralion Is voinjilctvJ on both sides, u linen
tinndiuc, hcirg rotlctl from onch end to the middle. i> then to he ciirefully
wruunu round (he teg. no lu ■□ nstisi in keepinj; (he edgcii of the wounil
tog;cther. The after Irealiuent of the wound* rvqnirei mncli core nnd nllen-
tion : for, when ihey src not nicely insiiai^, (lie gnuiulutionB beinfc loo
luxuriant anJ unclicekol ore tklnned over, nnd form Hn rnlKrf-i'inunt, wliicli
fran tt* eanncc(ion wi(h the diiideil iierre in endownl with ncitie lennihility,
MKI from its prominence is verj' Ukely to tie struck with the other Icji, the
pain of which oftm thruwt ihe horse ilown. The biindiiyes mav temuin im-
niOTcd for Ivu or throe dnva, but «hi>idd lie frci]iieatly wetted with cold wuicr,
M it is an nhjcci of much importance lo kccji donn the inllttn nun lion thut
succeed* the upcraiion, us otherwiie (lie leg may be pcrninncndy (hickcneil.
..— Spooler BH the f'uol, ^r.
■ Mr. Urtllnrgh soy* in (he t'rtrriaatiaK, vol. ii., "Eiirj' spring since 1811,
I hate opi;rH(cd upon fouU o( nil Otfct, from ten days nlj to lunr inuntb*, and
have, on nil occasnont, been convinced of id licing the mniit clegibli^ iieriod
for ca*cratin|i. (Ipcruling thus early pruduecn vi^ry Utile chunge in the
ajitHliniif f «i colli, iiK they are genenilly well in ten diija ; uiid in ei*cr> cn«e
ihcT grow Uirjicr thnn when eii»trjiteil later," I believe Mr. Br<-ilar)ili s iilun
' I Inc btsi, unlets ilio foal shoiilil appear too light nbout the n(ek.^Bo.|
BimaiCAt. OPBItATIONS.
ante as is eiaployed for liritip;, it is gMiCTally :lII tlie steau'ing llml
is required; iliereforc if tl>c cord does slip lliroiigli it is orlilile
-JW-
coiuoqucnce. This being done, llie other testicle is to be t^
moved in the same niamuT. Tliere may be a litllf bl««fiB9
aOiT \he hoi-Mi &;t» up, bill it will stop of iuelf within half w
hour. No kind of dressing i* necessary. The horse should tx
turned inio « Ioomc box for a weclc, and after that ho may b*
put to work if rwjiiired. The general fimh of operators it
spariii<; too much, wiierebj') instead of stopping or preventing
hlcnliii^, tlicy produce it, so tlial (he horse bUxtU considerabh
after the operjitiwi. If llie cord is cut off with the hot firtng
iron, »ik1 not louclu-d with tlte iron afterwards, it s«-l<lom bleeia
at ail. There in alwnyK some degree of swelling afterwards; bat
it is never of importance : if it continues, however, after a wwk,
n few punetiirec should hi mtnle with a large laneet, in ihc
lowest (Ktrl of the swelling, wlien dro[is of water will tidi from
ihe punctures, and tlw swelling will gradiuilly disapi>ear.
[There are se^'eral oilier methods of performing this operation!
each of wliich has its advocates; that most g«i>ernlly prnctiacd
on the continent ia by means of the caustic clam, and there an
two ways of doin^ this, the covered and the uncoveiTil.
The ctniitk ftaui, — To {>erforni tliis operation it ia tieccsaatyM
be provided with a pair ofclams, and apairoflona pincvretobriiig
their ends togetlier. The clams, myt Hurtr« d'Arbovitl, an
CASTKATIMK.
made with a piece ofold rldrr fiv« or «tx iiichos long and an inch
in diameter; this must be split in two and a notch made half iin
inch frgm each pndsufEcicntly deep to hold ilie string. Thepiili
is thrn taken from the wood, and itie vacancy filled witi) a
pWtcr composed of flour and corrogive sublimate. Mr. Good-
win coniiidtfrs the caustic quite useless, and thus recommends the
operation to be performed. — " The horse bvinjt si-cured, and
tho ncci'ssary instrument* itt liund, the operator, laying hold of
the near testicle and drawing it out, sufficiently to render the
scrotum tense und secure the cord, iniikcs his incision, through
the scrotum and tunicu va|rinii]i«, if the operation be the unco-
vered one; the ttsticle presenting itself is to be cautiously laid
hold of by the omrator, having given tip die ktiife; »t this
moment tl»c twitcli should be lightened on llie nose to pm-eni,
if possible, the animal struggling during his efliirt; caution
must l>e used merely to aupjiort ilii.' testicle, and not to mukc
the same pull on it as nlien the cremaster muscle h acting.
Having obtained the testicle sufficiently out of the scrotum to
place the clam, the assistant should do this by opening and
putting it on the anterior part of the cord. At this part of the
operation the Russians generally cut through the vas deferens.
When the clam has been placed on the cord, the operator, giving
up tlte teiticle to the care of the assistant, should be cuutious
titat no jiarts of the scrotum are included in it, and then uike
the open ends of the clams in his right hand, having disengaged
erery thing with the left ; the assistant then brings the einl of
the clam together by his pincers, taking care to keep iliem chuv
to tlte horse at the moment of his strugi^ling. The ends being
secured by a double round of strings and tied, the generality of
practitioners take away the testicle by cutting through the cord
at about the distance of half an inch from the clam. Otherit
allow them to remain on till the clam be taken off, as a matter
of security from second Imemorrhage. The clams must have n
sufficient degree of pressure completely to stop the circulation in
the pan, yet not so great as to lacer.ite ihc vessels. If pressiirv
be made inefficiently, the animal sutfers severely from it ; on llie
other hand, the pressure being properly mnde, he suffers less
than in any other way of operating.
Mr. Goodwin thus describes the uncovered operation, to which
be gives tlie preference : —
** After opening the scrotum and dissecting through the
dartos, which is very readily done by passing the knife ligJitly
uver its fibres, the testicle and its covering, the tunica %'nginalis,
must be taken in the right hand, while the left should be rnr-
ployed in puling back the scrotum from its atlBchmrni*) and,
having your assistant ready as before with the clam, it must be
placed wotl above the epididymis, and greater pressure b, of
L
cotirar, necMMiyt u the vighwl ooveriiig ia iododed tn tto
dam."
Tltc principal ulronuge of tlii> mrtho<I oroperatinj; it, thai if
l)i«n> thoiili) be »cn>u] heimia, ibe operation awy atill Itc ufi-ljr
prrfurni4il vriiltnat thoM dangerotM, and Mmetiinea fatal, ootu^
()Mf-ticc* which orii;^ «It«nd« itte comoMa radbod of operating
wIm-ii a iwrtiaii of the int£«tinr* bu eaoaped into llie ■croium.
Mr. Goodwin uaUs iliai he has praciiied the Grsi operation a
oreat many times ■uceettfuDy, aod witli very little subaeqtmit
infktnniadon. He has also tried the uncovered roetlMKl with
equal sucoees, at>d gives it the preference, for the reason before
BUIed.
The operation hy ligatart is not frequently practised, bario;!
gone into disrepute for many years in consequence of the opert-
tion having been pi-rformed by Mr. Cline. tlie celebrated surgnw.
and followed by in Ham mat ion and deaili. It is. however, lo be
doubted whether the method of pcrformin); tlio operation wu
really il>c caute of death, for wc Bnd that tbe li>;ature bos bceii
employed by wrnic veterinary suf]g(«iiK for nuiny years with tbe
best t-ITcctK. Mr. Kichard Collier, of Dublin, nye that he boi
adopted it for thirty year*, and it lus b»i*n very Nuocessful. He
thu* d<-j«ribc« hi« nietiiod of operating in tltc I3tb volumeof llie
yelerinariaR : —
After M-curing the hor»e on hi» b«ck, 1 open the itcrotum in
the ujtiul wny, and let out ll>c ti'«ticle. I then ptxce the iron
clams on the ord, ami divide it. This being done, I take bold
ofa small portion of it with the forceps (embracing the artery.
of couree), and apply the ligature. ** I generally hare oii
lutiistant ready with tlu.* ligature made into a noose, wbo placet
it on that portion of ll»e cord which I intend it to embrace
before I apply the forceps, i then draw up lite artery, wliiUi
be xeeurcs tltc ligaturo. This I consider tlie moftt importonl
(MTt of the operation."
Mr. C frequently bleeds afterwards, and gives a laxative.
Mr. Dray, of Leeds, statoi, in dte same number of tbe t'ftf
rinarian, tliat he employs the ligature in castration. After
easting llie hoixs he Miy* : — "I then procet>d to remove the
lell tesiicle, Rrsi by a bold incision through the scrotum, and
sometimes through the tunica albu^itiea iMtea with a scalpel-
I separate with my fmgerx the viu ch'fcrens from the sprrmatir
cord; a yard of waxe<l three-lhread twine is pbiced round liic
cord, and, by the aid of an assistant, the ligature is pulled ver>'
tight and made secure. The U-Kticle is then removed by a pair
ofsciEsors or the scalpeh 'llie ligature should be left long, lo
as to allow six or seven inches of it to project below the scrotum,
iit order to prevent ihe external incision uniting by adlicstt'c
CJSTIIATIOK.
tnltHmnintion before tlie slotifrli is rvady to come- away. The
li^turcs generally conie away by llu-iii»elrcs in ten days or B
Ibruiighu
Tortiojt. — AiiotWr im-lhod of ix-iTorntitiK llw 0|KTatioii has
bren inlroctuced by Messrs. Daws, SJiiioiids, aiid Wardle, and
is Uins di^cribrd by Hr. Daws : — " Tho operation of castration
by tortion is pcrfortm-d as follows : — An incision througli the
•crotuin on one *'kU' is lir«l mattv with \hv scal[K-t suffici<?iiily
Intf^ to admit iho fn-r ncapv of the twlicle; the vas deferens
is tb<-n divided with titr tame instrument abntit iiti iiicli above
the cpidydimis. Hy pnroiiin^ this plan, the rei'istaiicc of the
<;remastfr muscle will bv def«-al<.-tl ; and the testicle, with its
vesM-ls, will lie in a r|uivt ttatv until the conclusion of the
operation.
A longitudinal incision is now to be inndc through the tun!ca
vjiffinnli" rdlcxa, and a [mrlion of the siK-rmalic artery laid bare,
and fre«-d from its adjacent attachments. The torsion forceps
is then to be nppHed to the artery, which should be divided in
that portion imnH-diatWy below the grasp of the instrument, the
thumb and index finger of the left hand pressing back the blood
in the vessel. The artery is then to he twisted by the forceps,
held in the right hand, nniil the elasticity n de&(royed, and it
will no longer recoil, but remain curled np in b knot. The
torsion forceps may then be removed witu safety, and the
remaining portion of the cord should be divided, and returned
wrtliin the scrotum. Should the hcemorrhage from the artery of
the cord prove at all troublesome, it may be arrested in a similar
manner. The number of twists will depend upon the size of
the artery, from four to six revoJutiouB bemg sufficient for small,
and eight or ten for larger vessels. The effect which torsion
pi-oduce5 on the vea^l, independent of destroying its elasticity,
is a laceration of its internal tunic, the edges of which become
speedily agglutinated by means of plastic lymph: a clot of blood
plugs up the end, so tliat the obliteration is rendered doubly
secure." This description is followed by numerous cases, in
wliicli tills method of operating has been practised by tlie tliree
practitioners before mentioned with success.
The use of torsion as a mode of slopping the hiemorrhage
from arteries was introduced by Mr. Costello in iS24, and for
many operations, particularly ia cutting out tumours, it has been
employed with great advantage. The present writer has em-
ployed it for this purpose with the best enects; but for castration
h« does not consider that it has any advantage over tlie ligalure,
iban which it must certainly be less secure. — Eu.]
B n
970
SiritaiCAt OFERATfOSS.
Oh Hmia or Itu/ilmvt,
[This iliwase consistft in the escajie of tlte bowels or otlSr
viwiTa from their proper cavity. There are two priiicijul
VAfieties of hernia: onv in which liie intestine escapes thro^|{li
the abdominal rinffe, which, in the liorse, continue open ; and the
otlier, when it tales place at any other part ot tlie abdomra.
The latter is called ventral hernia, and generally arises froni
blows, kicks, or falls bjr which ihe psrietes of the abdomen are
rnptuivd, and thus form an opening through wliich the boweli
pflAs, aiid are only prevented e«ea[Hng by ihe skin. The former
variety has different names, according to the part io which the
gut is found ; tlius, if it rvaclbea the scrotum, it is called scrotal.
or, in tlie gelding, inguinal hernia. There are numerous other
■ubdi visions, which it is unnecessary here to notice, but whidi
may be found trt-atrd at lengih in Girard's '• Treatise on
Hernia," translatctl by Mr. Percirall, in the I'etfrhiariait, anii
also in a very pxcelleni paper read by Mr. Simoiids before llic
V. M. Association, and reported in tlte I'Jth volume of the Ft-
itrinariem.
Hernia eometimefi becomes sfrangtilated, in which case llic
inleetines arc tightly pressed by the stricture; anfl* if not
relieved by opetaiion, mortihcaiion and death are sure to
ensue. Scrotal hfinia is more likely to bccon>e stnuigulalrd
than any odier, from the snialliiess of the opening ihrnngh
whici) llio gut escapes. From the general practice of c*Mfv
lion in this country, it b comnaralivelv rare; but in Indisi
where it is common to use entire Iwrses, the disease is of freqiNtK
occ-iinence. Mr. Rogers, who has pracli^cd some yeora 1>
liulis, thus describes the symptoms and the operation in tfte IM
volume of the P'eterinaruiit : — "A horse is brought in from llw
lines said lo have gripes. If the case is recent, the pulse rat,^
not be much alfected, but tl»e aniutal is very uneasy, look* rouaa
at his ilanks, and, if carefully noticed, it will [>c found tbat
he is gazing intently at ttie groin or scrotum. KnudI iiuui-
lilies of dung are sonietinies voided at intervals; he lici uo"n
i-olls on his bock, gets up again, ^>aws and stamps, probablv
stales ; tlie icstictcs are evidently uneasy, and alternately drawn
up and rclnxed ; the scrotum drips with sweat; tlve pulse bt-
eomes <)iiick, small, and wiry^ tne conjuitclival and Scliiwi-
dcrian memhnuR-x arc highly injected; the flanks heave vio-
lently; lie gi'OHtif, and »liuke3 his head; the oounteniino'
Assumes the look of horror, not difficult to rccogDise ns itf
dicating >ioiiie terrible affection, and the agony is eomeiiiDn
lireadful. Hv hiis heard a Iwrsc shriek out with ngotiy. V
relief U not nRuvded, the horse breaks out in cold clamm;
OFURATIUNS fOR HERNIA.
371
swm« ; the motilh bccomn dry, tiie m^mliraiu-a congi-slrd ; be
tJirovrs iiiniitcir down ; (irrtchvM liU iioae lo the groiit, at tvliicli
lie itttfiillv ^i/c-M ; allow* Ills liMid lu fiill violently on tin- ground;
llw musclfs, piirticubrly of tlw belly, are wiwd wiili spasms,
aiid deiiih <;lo»e» the misemblc scene. When the mind of the
surgeon i.i niude ii[), not « nionieiit is lo be loet ; lie «hould at
once prwot-d to oiK-rnte. He should bleed to ihc Titll extent,
or until it cuuxed the horne to »i^\u Tiie miimiil thould then be
carefully thrown, ajid se<;ured a* for ciiitr.ition, the hind leg or
legH being drawn lowurd.i the coIIhv, and lb« bor^e on it« back
welt secured in ihai |Kiiiition by bundles of Hiraw. The intiru-
meiits which lie tisea am one or two scalpel*, luid biiluuri cache,
■JB
BMnurt Caiht
Th* blitourl lie* (oDOoilccI in the groove of llie dircclor. and U dented whtn r^
SMn4 bf prvviinic on the *|irinff haiidlej Ihp bcrvw btOovr licmling Iha Action uf
i« Waift « may b* rvqiiicr'l.
and others generally needed in castration. ICvery thing being
in readiness, the operator places himself on his knec< in the rear
of the horec, and commence* an examination externally wid by
the rectum, by which means he i» generally able to nscennin the
iiaiure of the hernia. He then takes the lesiicle of tlie affected
Bide in both bands, nn<), mnnipulnting it so as carefully to bring
it in close contaci with the scrotum, leaves it in the leU band.
Tightening ibe skin, and guided by llic raplie, he makes a free
incision through ttie integuments, and then tlnoiigh ibe tunic,
which laltcr lie dilates to the extent of three or lour ineheii by
means of the scissors or scalpel, fir»t inlrodueing one of his
fingers us a guide. If the operator hii-i a knowlt^lge of tlie parts,
he needs not to bo ulVuid of opening the nei'oluin by free
incisions, made with camion. On opening the «crouiiu, n
quantity of serum, depending on the length ot time the strangu-
lation has existed, will escape.
If the operator lakes the testicle firm in his baud, there will
be little danger of wounding the gut.
After having opened ibe scrotum, by putting aside the testicle,
he may generally oblnin a view of tlic intestine.
■* lie next attempts to introduce the index finser of his left
liand into tlie stricture: but this is sometimes difficult, as tbc
sjiermatic cord becomes occasionally enormously enlarged, the
stricture preventing the return of blood by the veins, but allow-
n B *2
J
.172
•MiOlCAL OniBATlONit.
ing it to proceed to tlic tmticle by thi:t arterios. In such a eaK
it U an KLlvaniage fini to castrelc, and to gn ilib detention ont
of tlH* u'liy.
*' Having oarcfiillyiin*,*!-)! (Iic^ finder into tlw stricture, Itclhen
tntroiliicc^ tlu* biduiiry, niut Imvitig lukrii gntit cnrtf lo avoid
lh« intnlitie, rety caroliilly clilatM ine strictun^ ; but thi» » to be
done witli the greaiMt caution, to ai juit (o enable bim to niuro
the gilt ami no monf, for if lie much enlargi^ tlie opening he
will, in all iirol>ability, ItHve n return of the bernin, and ln*e his
Klient. Having ntlutx-tl thr hernia, and removed ibe (e«iicle^
dresaea llie Bcrolum with tur|K'iiline liniment, and allows the
animal to rise."
'Jfte Taxi*. — In casea where these severe symi>toins are not pre-
sent. M.Oinml recommends what is called reduction by llie taxis,
by which is meant tlie return of the hernial part, by the band, inro
the cavity of the belly. If, after a ihorouRh examination of the
parts, reduction bnng considered |>racltcable and profitahle, no
time should be lost. Sbould the animal quietly submit, the oper-
ation stiould be performed while he is standing, by introducing
one hand into the rectum, and drawing up the protruded gut ; in
cases of resistance or difficulty, however, it is beet to cast our
patient, and then wc may work with both hands at the sanae
lime, — one in the rectum drawing up the f^t, and the other in
the dteath gently forcing it into tlw abdomen, 'llie operator
will only recollect that force in drawing up the gut is to be
avoided as much as possible, the consequences too often being
inflammation, gangi'i^ie, and nipliire.
Veniml hernia. — When hernia occurs at birih it is called eon-
genital. [Umbilical heniia is often fotnid in foals, and should be r^
(dtced by the following method, which Mr. ^imondjihas fouitdiuc-
eessfu) : -~ " 1 (init cau the animal, and, placing him on hia back,
grasped tlie hi^niul mc t>etweeti my lingers, drawuig it up from the
belly, and being careful not to include any portion ot the p(o-
irnding inlettine, of which there is little fear, except (which t* IHC
likely in ko young an untmal) adhesion has taken place betweta
tlie pctriionetnn covering the intestine and that purtioti of the
membrane lining the wac. Being safe with regard to tbeite thin^
I U\ke a strong waxi'd cord or string and place it round the W,
as near tu po)«ible to tlic abdomen, and, pulling it lightly,]
[Huu ii round the sac two or three times, and securely tWrtiiL
i'lie patient may then he pt-nnilted to rise; and, in a roajoriiT
of cases, no after-treatment will be necessary. In tl»e course of
a few day* the parts included in the ligature begin to aloi^ht
and, the healing proccai taking place, the sac is entirely got nil
of, and the cure ia petrfected."
Mr. Simonds concludes l1^e valuable pajier before alluded id
r
IM'i:i1ATI0N» FOR lir.HNIA.
373
hy (he relniioii of two casvt in which lie ofK-raied successfully
for v^riiirni hernia. One, b}- (lie plan before advised for colts;
tbtr otlter, hy a more «cvcre opcralion. In (be latu-r case, the
patieiit was an old black mnrr that hud bceii injured by felling
in the shafts six dayg Wforu the opfralimi. Mr. S. sayw: —
" TTie most exicnsivt- ruptun- I liud ever Wfn prtiii'iitcd itself on
the left aide, Tlie sac formed by the skin, wliicli wtw not broken,
nor even the hiiir rtdjbctl ofli extended as far forwai-ds a» ihe
cartilages of the false ribs, «nd bikckwards Co ibu niainmob A
per[>en(lieidar line drawn from llie superior to the inferior part
of ibe tumour meusun-d more than twelve inches. It nppean-d,
from its immense size and wel^liT, as jf bv far the Inrger part of
the colon liad protruded. To my surprise, there was conipara-
tirely little constitutional disinrhnnce. The pulse was 4a, and
foil, with no other indication of ferer, and no expression of
pain on pressing the ttnnoiir. She was bled until the pulsi? was
considerably lowered. A carth.irtic was given, and the sue or-
dered to Ik; ke|)t coJistantty wet with cold waler, and to be »np-
|>oned with a wide baniLige. Site wm placed on a restricted
and maih dieu On llie next day, being honoured by a visit
by Mewr*. Morton, Spooiwr, and Youa((, J liad the pleasure
and advanlage of submitting the case to their cxaminalioti, and
obtainiii;; ilwir opinion. Tliey urged me to attcntDt to return
the prolriiding viscera and secure them by a surgical operation;
and Mr. .Spoonrr kindly oiTi-red to be present, iind to give mc
his valuable aasislance.
"On tlie'24tl), wo therefore gave her two ounces ami a Imlf of
the tincture of opium shortly belore she was leil from the box
(o the operating house. Her pnlse was 31, owing, probably, to
the administration of the opiate: her respiration and other vital
functions seemed not to be interfered with.
" She was cast on her right side, and the hobbli's Ix-ing secured,
we bud her elevated so as to place a largt' quantity of vtrnw
under her quarters, wlucli being done, she was turned nearly on
her bark, and kept in that sittialion by more trusses of straw.
Her bead wsb made fast to a ring in the front, by means of a
long rope; while the left bind leg, being disengaged from ihc
hobbles, was fixed to another ring behind, by which means she
was wvll secured, and so confined tliat she scarcely moved from
the spot; but this was probably produced more by the opiate
than by our arrangwneiiis. After a careful examination, exter-
nally ax well ns per rectum, in order to ascerUiin the situation
and probable sixe of the laceration of the muscles, an ineii^ion
was carefully made through the integument into the mc, in a
line with iIh- inferior border of the curtilages of ihe false ribs;
which incision was about seven inches in length. This, as ue
liad hoped, proved to bv directly upon the aperture in the muv
u B 3
3
S74
STHLCTt'BE or THE TRCTII,
enlar pariMra of itie alxlomen. Tiic inu«litM« were rxpoHdr
iiiul alter Itaviiig aiifBci«iilIy <li)iiU-<) tlie opetiiiif; to pcrtmt llv
introdiictioi) of tin- liauds, thoy were quickly fetufni-<), porlioii
after jxmioii, into llietr projier cavity, logoiiicr wiili a port of
the omeniiiin, wliicli we fouiKl miiiewhjii annoying, it being fre-
quently forced baL'k again tlirougli tlie lacvrauon.
*'At times, it required iliv exertion of our united strmj^tii to
|irevent tlie e*en[>e of the intestine*, and wUicli w«* only cftwied
liy plncing nur liunds side by side, covering and [>r<-»sin]; upon
the opening. Uy these meaii!i we sueceed<'d in k"«'|>inj( in die
vitcero, until we were jaiisfied that we had |ilnc(-^l ihetn all
within their prof)er cavity. At abo4it ilie central part of tbe
npcrture, we decidedly found the greatest prrasiirc of the inie*'
lines to dfecl an t^cape. A sirons metallic suture of Hexible
wire wM t)>en paued through ttie edges of the laceration, takiitf
in the pcritnm-urn and portions of the transverMtlii, n-clus ana
internal abdominal uiuicle^ and other sutures, embracing the
Kiimv parts, were placed at convenient diUance«, so tu nearly to
clone llie aperture. Two sutures of smaller metallic wire, and
three of stout silk cord, were then passed through the external
abdominal muscles and their aponeuroses, which efieetually
up the opening into the abdomen. The integument was
brought togelher by the inicrrupicd suture, taking care to
out the end of tl>e other sutures, and which had been pui
U-ft long, Ko that, in case of supervening inflammation or
ing, they miglit be readily examined. The whole ojteration occu-
pied rather le»4 than an hour, our poor patient being occasionalli
refreshed with sonie warm gruel.
" The hobbles were now quietly removed, wid nAer lying a
few minutes »he got uj*, and was placed in n liirfp- loose box. X
compress and a sus|>eneon,- bandage, that could be tightened at
pleoture, were applied to the wound."
This case, which reflects great credit on (lie skilful operaton,
eventually did well ; and il affords us some very u»efu) pruclicsl
hint* a* to the treatment of similar formidable caxes, although
they may not frequently occur. — Ed.]
ncternal
illy^
'as ^^H
tob^H
.rp,JH
ir swelt-
CHAP. LIX.
THE srntJCTirnE or the teeth, and the method nv
JUtlOINO THE ACE.
[The hone has, at five years old, forty leeih ; vlt, twentjsfcur
molar or jaw teeili (twelve in each jaw, and hx on eachsidr);
fwelre incisors, beiiig wk m eacb jaw ; and four tnshca, one on
AHU UETHOD OF J^DdlNG TIIK AOE. 97a
v'nhrr s'lAe of each jaw. and situated belween the molar and in-
ci^or tc^Ui. In marea, the tushes are generally absent, and
sonKriimea there are a f^w supplementary teeth.
The teeth are placed in »ery deep soelcets in the jaw-bones, by
wliicli, with the assistance of the gums, they are firmly kept in
llieir situation.
Thf structure of llie teeth is very curious; in the horse we
riml it composed of three poriions : first, the bone, or ralher the
ivory for it is similar to the tusks of the eleplianl, forms the
bulk of [he tooth : secondly, the enamel, whicli is exceedingly
hiircl, nnd forms the surface of the crown mid a portion of the
face, mid dips into the body of the tooth ; thirdly, the criista
|K*iro«t, soflcr than the oilier portions, and more opake ; this
pnriimi iippcnrs to be a sort of cemcnl to unite the olhci' coii-
»litu<'nt« together, but it is only found in herbivorous animals.
In Uie fcctus of three or four months old wc find the germ of
the l^rst pair of teeth in the alveolar cavity. It appears a soft
pulpy nuhstancc secreted by a membrniioo* cajKulc, which in an
iitcisor inotli h single ; but in the molar there arc no Kt* than
four to till- under and five to the upper, which accounts for the
irregular jippi-iiruricc of the molar teeth. The pulp is gradually
changed into the hard material. The membrane of the incisor
teeth that sccrclcd the pulp is double ; and from its outer sut^*
face it afterwards secretes the enamel, and from its inner the
tt'ory. A tooth is divided into the crown and the faug ; the I'or-
mer being that portion outside the gum, an<l the latter thnt con-
tained within the socket ; whilst the part immediately embraced
by ilie gum is called tlie neck. The ui)p<T sur^e of the crown
is called the face, and is that part on which the mark is situated
in tlie inciior teeth, by which wc judge of the age.
The hontc luis two sets of teeth, the temporary and the per-
muneiit : the former are considerably smaller and whiter than
the latter. The tushes, however, are permanent, and do not
»p[>ear till after four years old.
The iwrniaiient incisor teeth are too inches and upwards in
length: their liue present* a deep funnel-like cavity, which ex-
tvntln some di>tnnce into the interior of the tooth, and consti-
tutes what is called the mark. The interior of the tooth is nUo
provided with a cavity that communicates with tlie twltom of Uie
socket by an opening at the end of the root. (See page371.,
fig. 12.) The looth, therefore, when young, is nearly hollow;
but both cavities diminish with age. The lower one is filled
with a gelatinous substance, which contains the nerves and
vetsels by which the tooth is nourished. The nrrangt^nienl of
the ivory and the enamel in the inciaor teeth deserves ]iarticular
consideration. " The enamel," »ays M. Gii'ard, "after having
ci«ered the entire of the external surface, doubles itself towanis
II » 4
S7e
STHUCTURR Or THE TEETH,
thtt turiaioe of wear, ind dips down into t}»e interior of tlie tooth,
fbrmini; * comcnl cavity wltich becomes narrow, and approacbn
lowAnln llie |K»ti-rtor edge of l)ie lootli, tlie more according ni it
. b tMMrtf the root. Thia prolonsalion of the enamel prewDtt,
r then, two poniont for our conaideration ; — first, the cavitjr tlial
lit forms to the exterior; u-condlj', the lioni or iufundibuluu
wbifli envelope! ttiia cavttjr. Tills funnel, which ia very easy to
perceive in nuking dilTereiit seolions of ibe tooth, h surroanonl
HI young tt-eili by the cavity of the ])tilp. wliicb is continued lo
! tl»e extremity of tlie free portion, but which is found more «[»•
eiiilly un tlie »idc correspojiding to the anterior ed^'o of the tooth.*
A« tltc animal advances in age, this otiier cavity becomes ol>>
liieratvd, and the infundibulum ia then only surrounded by a
mans of ivory, much tliicker anteriorly than posteriorly. f
Defore that of fire years old, the ago of tbc horse is ascertained
by the preneiice or disappMranee of the temporary teeth ; and
iirom live to eight by the diaappearance of ine niark which is
commonly supjiosed to be filled up ; but in fact disappears by
the borders ot the cavily being worn down. It takes about three
years to wear the teeth down to tlie bottom of these cavities;
thus, the anterior teeth, being first formed, are first to lose their
mark ; the middle teeili tollowing the next, and the corner teeth
the succeeding year. The French distinguish the incisor leeih
by calling the anterior ones tlie nippers, ihe corner tbc corner*,
and those between ihem the dividers; which terms will serve to
disthiguish them in this place. When the incisors first appear,
the anterior Imrder of the mvity is somewhat higher tliaii the
piiMcrior internal border; but in the course of a year it ia worn
down level.
For many years it lias been euatotnary to judge of tlie age bjr
ll>c marks wv have mentioned ; but at eight years old, the ooret
I is said to be aged ; and after this time it was considered to be
in)|>0MtI)le to OKcerrain the age. Thei'e are, however, niber
means which enable u» pretly generally to judge of tlie age, if
not with certainty, »i iiiiy rate a)>proBching to it. If we take nB
incisor tooili and intike three or four transverse sections of il, wc
shall 6nd that eiich niirfiice is of a different sliupe. 'Vhe looih
becomes gradually less from side lo side, and more from front to
'* In many joung teelh. on lookinH into the lower cavity ■! tbc root, at
kjMB see the bottom of tin- riitincl (mx 6g. 12.), wbii-li fumu the upper ovricj.
ubolitMnft lo the nomcrior inirt uf tne tootli : the louth. indeed, a|>pean son^
f-wlat like n man i doubk nighirn]), one jiarl bciim foUod «itliin the otber.
' 1'lic face (if a (oolh jiisl cut prciicnii^ n i-nnrp edge (urroiuidiag llic tmnty oi
niurk t liiin Oilge is ciitirelj- cotcrcd with euBmel, which, however, mwu geU
wurn off. Mild Unn the inicriml eiiuinfl bccmncn su|iarat«sl froni the exUraiL
f The old loolh in tlu--rcl<jrv I'OiiHiilcnblj' hniriu ihsn the raun^ loolhi
enil from ihc h-apli of linic ihc (-citli-nl ciiuiiii-1 reniainM iiAer tltv duofftn*
aiicc of the iiinrk. it nppcnn thuc the olil lolid looth wmn bidcIi more uowlj
tliaii the yoang hollow touth.
AND HETIIOU QV JUOOIttfi THE AUE.
877
rear. At a certain depth it becomes trianf^ular, antt, lower still)
the oval appears almost reversed, the diameter being less from
side to side than from froul to rear. (See fig. l!}., a, &, c, d, e.]
Each of tlKse several portions of the (ooth becomes, in the
course of time, its fac«, the shape of which ihcrefore enables ua
to approxiitiale to the ase. Tliis is still more assiHt«d, up to a
certain age, by tlie fact lliat the enamel that forms the side of
the infuiidibulum dips deeper into the tooth than the cavity
within it. It may therefore be seen in the centre of the face for
■oue j-ears after the disappearance of the mark. *
TttU fJatf frAibilt tkt lut^tr imriion al tleftn diffennt periinU of H/i/ td$t AW in*
f*n««f ttntttitrt t^ a j/ouHtf ftrrmai'r^ti inciter, rri'A Mpvtnti fmnntrtt mtiviv 0/ a
fig. I, Soon aftsr birlli.
% Ona yMr ott.
5. Kiting tbrav jtun,
4, t'oui and ■ half yean old.
5, Flic jvoA uld.
6, Six yon oliL
7, SnMi j«an ottl.
K, CigM ytM.n old.
9. IVtlia ycwi old.
10, About buttHii jrun old.
11, About nil«an yran old.
12. A fciuiig bona'* ineuor iMth,
witli nn opEning dimIc ai llic
middle, cipodng to (Ivv (lie
lowvr portion nftlio ftiniirl a.
IS, KiliiliiU fivp Iniinvtrptc twliont
or • young inciior toot]], the
tbtfcUnt ponioDifi.b.tf. having
Iho futiDol ; till' farlatuin In Iha
■liB|w ofwli nuiCuv i* vxirlhy
of noliec 1I1V uval yredunlljr
btooming irUngalar.
* The funni'ls la llie iip|)«r inciiior teeth brinjt dcrpa, and the vmr Iwing
1m« thati in tlie under tcetn, the tiiiirks arc longer ilimp{>«iring, li Uux hwa
i
878
gnvcrvite of tiib TEmt.
In ihifl couniry, for yi-are pasi, it lias been customary lo reckon
I the o^ of horses from llie first of May, slthough they may, in
nuiy imlancca, be foaled several montlis eitlicr before or after
l))U date. It has however, within these few years, been Ae-
citied by the jockey elub that the ages of race horses shall l)f
reckoned from the Ut of J^iniiary. They are generally foaled
earlier than other horses, it being desirable that they should be
as early in the year as possible, in consequence of the pmcticeor
running horses so earlyas two end three years old.
A few months, in a young aninial, often makes a material dif-
ference in its size and strength; and as thorough- bred mam,
at this time, arc kept in comfortable boxes, the inclemency of
tlie weather is of little con!ic(|i)cncc. In other horses, the plan
of early foaling would not aiuwcr, iu consc<iucncc oflhv want of
sufficient pasturage.
Tlie following arc the changes by which wc judge of tlvc age
of a horse: it a unncct-stary to notice the mohir In-th, as ihry
cannot be readily cxaniincil, nor the upper inciH>rst us tlicir
cliungrt are vciy tiiiccrtaiii : —
At biith, the uipiiers only have made their appearance.
At oiie year old, tlie incisors are all viuble, the comers having
appeared last.
[At two years old, ihe nippers have lost llidr marks, and both
edges of the eornera ure level.
[At three years old, and several montlis before, the permaiieni
nippers have made their appearance.
'At four yoiiii old, the permanent dividers appear, and tlie
cavity has nearly disappeared in the temporary corner*.
At five years old, the mouth is utid to be pertect ; and, if a male^
the tushes ai-e up ; the permanent corner teeth have ap-
Iieurcd, but the posterior border of the cavity is much
ower limn the anterior; and the mark is much dimininhed
in die nippers.
At six years old, the mark has disappeared from the nippers,
and considerably diminished in the dividers; but the inner
edge of the corners i^ not yet level.
At seven years old, the mark has disappeared from the nipfien
and dividei-s, and the corners arc level, though still retain-
ing the mark.
At eight years old, the mark has disappeared from the comen
also, and the horse is said to be aged. Tlie face of the
StRtcil ihnl ihcrc nrc twayearB* snaee hctvicrn the dtttippcamncG oTtlw Koriu
in the (tiflvrent tcclh ; tfi<.' iiiiilalc lt.-etli louiig ihcni nl ten, tlie divUcn (t
("■fltc. niiil tilt' cornrrn M fourteen ; Iml this is a mnltcr of mucli Jrwgulw'ty
Hn<l iinccruintt'. Tliotr |irc»eiK'C and iliBiip|>t>miicu will, huHvtcr, titm to
n^tisl ihe othiT tigtix in informing iis of the age
IIIKTS TO THE PUnCllASERS OF HORSES.
879
tocih i< tM-comtiijv more oval, but the «»amd, iIk? remains
of thi* fuiuicl, is still lo bo se<-ii In Uio centre of ific faw.
Ltnine yuan old, the nippers become ruuiider, ami ilic ibvidera
ovbI; tlu' loUowing ji-ar ibo dividers becuiin; round, and
lilt; m*x[ tilt: corners .-kssiimi; tliis sbape, tlie central enamel
gradLinlly diminishes, und,
Lt twelve yiyirs old, his disiippeared: som^limn*, however, it
remains several year*. The niarlcH in llie upper leetli b?
this lime have disappetired; Kome uiy at eleven years old,
but this is very iinceriaiii.
tAt fifteeji years old, the nippera bave become triangular, having
l)een f;riiduiiUy assuming; thU shape tor the jaxt two years.
The futtowiiif; year the dividers amume this shape, and,
kt aeveiHeen years old, the lower incisors are all triangular, and
lUi- eeniial enamel has disappeared from tbe up[)er incisors.
After this, the face of the teeth lengthen from front to rear,
and diminish from side to Bide.
In judging of the age of a hoi-se, wc must not expect the fore-
going rules to be invariably correct, parficidarly after eight
years, but tlicy will be in many cases, and in all will materially
as«ist the judgment, and enable us to make tbe iuiportaiu dis-
tinction between one hoi-se of len and anotlier of twenty yi^rs.
lere are some horses that retain tbeir marks several yeai-* after
the usual time; it is desirable, therefore, not to be guided en-
tirely by one rule, but to let one correct or regulate another,
As the horse increases in age, tbe incisor teclh appear longer,
and oi^ume a more horizontal position, and other signs of age
appear manifested. — Ed.]
Ip
^m ON WARRANTY AND SUL'NDSCSS.
^1t is a very ancient but valuable maxim, that in ail transactions
** Honesty i* tbe best policy ;" and 1 can sec no reason whatever
why borse-deoling should not be regulated by this excellent law,
for such it ought to be, and really is — foro ainff-imtiet. I bave
known thoie who bave continued in the practice of never giving
n warranty with a horse, and have exjH-rienced the advantage of
i( ; for nothing can be more evident that no one who has occa-
sion for a horse would sell one he is aecuRtomed to unless be had
some fault; and if we go to n horse-dealer to purchu«e a horse
'of five or six vears old, it is but reasonable to conclude tbni tbe
^Kjunc
CHAP. LX.
1
390
DrsEASKs or -niR hovme.
bone has bc«n irtctl by some oiIht pcrtoHi iu»l *ol(l for tomt
foult. Still it sliuuld be rticollc«tv<l lliat tltrix.' urc fpw, if any,
Itoreea witliout some butt or im]>ertix!ti<Hi ; uicl. perhaps, if (be
qualificatioiiv of riik-rv, cvvii the bc»l, wcix- titricily inquired JntO)
lliey would bi- rotmd tf)iiiiHy lU-Jiciciil: vn: bad betur, ibiTcrorc,
f{o upon i)h> priiiciiilc of gcuiii]; x bone ttmt limt no irnoM
lault or dvfcGl, or what may be tiiirly dertntsl iinsouiidnets ; and
baviiif; purcbascd •iich a imnet vt kbould ride liim ■ fwr dan
or wcfk», iind not be too banty in giving an opinion of him, nor
too ready in lisiiiiing to ibe opinion or criticinmii of otlit-rk
Uiivini; prx'niiiH-<l thus roucli, I will procet'^l to give toim- runhtr
advicf, or lug^i-al (lome precautions, which inay be iiBefulIy re>
GolUs.-11-d by (he ])tircluu«rR of lionm.
'I'tie iiuiiK-roiis ibadtfs which exist between a utale of perfect
MUiidiira ill lioreca, and UK»e obvious iJiM>nses or defect* which
to clearly coiutitule unsoundness as lo a<ltnit of iio doubt on ihe
subject, often occasion much Iroiiblt- and perplexity in ttw pur-
chase or sale of iIk-sc animals.
If a person, inexperienced in llie mysteries of horae-dealti^
wish to ptii'chase a horse, be woukl do well lo consult a |>rofrs-
gidual man, or some one capable of guarding him against any
deception that might be attempted, and of pointing out any di*-
fects there may l>e of too obscure a nature to attract his notice
IVhen such assistance cannot be procured, the (blIo»ii)g biPt)
mav, jx^rhaps, be found uaeful.
It would be useless to attempt a minute eKaminaiion of m
horse while the dealer or his asiiihlants are present: the doping
grouiKl upon which the horse stands for examination gives a de-
ceptive view of his form and height, while the couRUnl fear Ite
feels of the whip, and the high-flawn panegyrics luvinhed upon
him, are so perplexing to a person unaccustomed to the busi-
ness, that be is apt to overlook the n>o5i pal[Kible d<'fec(«; nor it
it possible for the most experienced lo examine liim witb all llie
accuracy and attention iliat are necessary ; as aii unolwerved
flourish of (ho whip, or some other priTa(e bint from the seller,
ki'ejw the horse constantly in motion, partictdarly when the eye
liHppenx lo be directed to a part that he does not wish to b« in*
Epei'lcd. I do not mean to my ibat this is always ibe ewe;
there are many dealers, no doubt, of strict integrity, who affi>rd
ample opportunity to those who wish to examine their borsm;
iintl, so tiir from wishing to practise any deception ujion tlw iD*
experieuc«d, will never warrant a horse to be sound uidew they
are convinced (hat he is really so ; but that (here are men in tW
busiiK^ss who have recourse to a variety of tricks (o deceive the
unwary, is too notorious to be doubted. It b advisable, ther^
fore, after tuking a gencrul view of the animal, so aa lo be aoiis-
fted with rcspc-ct (o his figure and action, lo ride him off, lo
UtStS TO T(IX PUHCIIA8ERS UP HOII8E8.
a&\
some convenient place, where he may he ex«mii)etl without iii-
terrupiion.
'lite first atid moat iin[)orinnt point to be iniiuirec) into is tha
time of tlie feet and timhK, and tv)ii-itier tlie tiorw be in any
(Ic^ri-e liimt; or not. And tboii^ii lie appear (K-rfectly firm and
free from larni-iiess in ail hi* paoes, il will be neeefwiry to inspect
carefully llie feet and limb:*, lent tliere be any defect, which at
some future period may nccasiori lameness. It it a fact pretty
well known to hor*e> dealer**, that a slight degree of Umeness >s
easily concc«teil, (wrticularly in liigh-spiriied ImrM*', bv the
BtimiiUi» of the whip mid ipiir, and supj>oriin)^ ihe head with
the bridle. To ascertain, therefore, wlieilier a horse Iw lame or
not, he should not be ridden, but a person ahould be made to
run before him, holding the end of the bridle, that the head
may receive no supjmrt from it; the slightest lameness will then
be readily jierceived, particularly if the trial be made on roiigli
ground, and on a moderate declivity.
Sliould it appear that the horse is perfectly free from lanie-
neia, the feel and legs are to be carelully inspected, beginning
with the former, which should be 6rst viewed in linonl, as the
hone stands, to observe if there be any difference in the fonn
or size of the hoofs. If tlie feet are very small, and particularly
if one foot upiieant lunalli-r tiian die other, it affords reasonable
catiM for Hu<^picion ihiii there is some serious defi-ct ; the bottom
of the foot in then to be examined ; and, if the heels arc much
contncted, the frog im])erfect, and matter issuing from its cleft
or division, it ic protiable that the horse will soon become lame.
1 would not adviM! that * horse be rejected merely because ilie
feel l»ave become rather narrow at the heels, and smaller than
llwy were originally. If no difference can be perceived in the
size of the feet, if die frogs appear sound, and fret- from
thrushes, and particularly if, at the same time, the horse step
boldly and firmly wtien trotted on rough ground, and down a
hill, 1 think he may be safely purchased, if free from all oihcr
tlefectsi. The next point to be attended to is the form of the
M)le, or bottom of tlie foot, whicli is, in its natural stale, rather
hollow, or o<»ncave; we sometimes, however, find it quite Hat, or
even convex : in either case, it is proportionally thin, and unfit
for l)ie ofK<« il seems to be designed tor, that is, to protect the
* In ■ bgok iiubUshcJ n few } curi Biac«, on this miI^i^l-I, bj Ht. It. I>nw-
reocc, bcobierves, thiil ilierunri- 1 wo h!nil« of l>orii(--iJcAliTi' — ihu cornnioii,
Bod Uie gentleman dealer — nml ihnt there I* lliii dnlini'iioii liciucrn llirm :
" like romiff is oblij^nl to wArrnnt n horse sound twforc he can *cll him |
wticmu (ho lultcr kimfil}- uvcn iljnl he belirvei diu hunc to In- loiuid.but tiaf
it it nol AU cmCom to give- n wuTHrjiy. Tluit, tin.- tint is bound hj luw i the
latter by liooour ; never [IilIcbs, ihcrc ace wjiiic rcmilrir ouit ■uirrcu<-»itn(/iv/
ptarehatert, <rhi>, iii sfiite <>r die numerous liri^lit rKaiiiplc* of modem honour,
prvfcr tite fi>riner mode of dculing to the hitter."
DiseASKs or rae morse.
Bi^nsiblo or fleihy aole whicli it coven. The fltit sole, however,
U by no incnni to seriotu a tUHVct a» the cuiivcx, and, if the
horsv is careriill^ tlioed, aeMoin occutont Umrticst ; but, vhta
the boIp i* in ixuy rfcgroe coiiwx, or proj<>ctin)f, it is extremely
ihin, anil ini-aiwihlo «f l)earii)g much (irrMurr. A horse wiih
this (Ii-rccl will ^nmcliines alep firnily whi^n thv Kole is prolcclrel
by n widt^, tK>ll<>w ^iioe; but Iw la coiisiunlly liiibk- to bMoaw
f Innie by gravel geltiiig under the alioe. We geiiirnilly fUid. in
this kind of fool, (hat the Tront of the liouf, or vrull, bat> Um its
iiatiirul Ibrin, having l)ecoinc flatter ; it i:i also tbiniwr, orwl more
i brittle, than it U naturally ; so that il is difficult to nail oti a
' shoe securely without wounding or prUkittg the foot, u it it
t«-rtn<tl. This defect, tbeivforc^ is of a serious nature) an<) coa-
st itutii unioundiies^*
Saiidcrack is an important defect, when it runs longiiudt*
nally from the coronet into the hoof, and is so Jt>ep as to affect
tlie sensible |»rts of the foot : soniellines, however, it is vi-rj
fuiierficial, or in a horiionlal direction, ami perhaps too trifling
to deserve notice. It should lie recoUecied, however, thai Uh«
trifling cracks in tlie hoof indicate an unnatural dr^'tieu of the
horn, and, con3e(|uently, a tendency to sandcrack ; ilterefore.
when such a horse is purchased, proper means sitould be eni-
ploved to improve the state of the hoof.
I There is no part of the horse which i-equires a more careful
inspection than the foot ; fur it somelinics happeus, lliat lame-
iirss is for a time removed by rest, or a I'un at grass, and may
not again ap)>ear, until the horse is put to work. Horws llial
are foundered are generally much relieved, and Mnirtimo
I a|>parenUy cured, by running at grass; but the lainvni'Mi invari-
ably returns when the horse is worked or kept in a sitible.
A hoFM-'i foot may have suffered so far by bad shoeing, ttn-
projier management, or some unknown cauM^, that althongh
Lameness may not have taken place at the time of purcluue, yeti
front its a(^>araiice, it may reasonably be suspected that he will
soon become lame. Should such a horse be purchased with the
wunanty of sonndnef«, he could not perhaps be legally relurni'd,
if laniem-ss take place two or thi-ee weeks afierwanU; o» llie
seller would be able to prove, that tlie horse had not been lame
up lo ilie time he was purchaseiL It may be said, perhaps, tJiat
the defect in the foot was observed at that time; but it is well
^known that we rarely meet with a liorse, at the age of sb>,
" whose feet are not more or less imperfect, and itkal a coii*ider-
• 111 oxnmininB the fore feet we ulionlil obivrrr lUlcsilivflj wbrtlm tliwT
lie Bity corn*. We cun tuiiictinii!(> dincovcr thin niilieiil lilLnig off the iSiaa.
but b> no uie>ins »i> well ns when l1i«y are remcn-ttl. If tl>« Ciutii ore iXigA
I'llir}- (lo tiol form • MilTicient otijcitton lu nil othcmue good hone: l«<ti|
■tli^' nrc catentiivc, >nd pnniculnrlj' if ihc hocU art likewise wcsL, tlic Inlfl
sAoufif be rejected. — Ei>. fl
MINTS TO THE PUItCllASEnS OF tlOllsr.3.
able alteration in furm sometiniea takes place widioui causing
Inmoiivss.
Ctdthttf in a defect often met will) ; nntl n-lien it is coiuidcr*
aljlf, i)iat i*, when the scar on the iniide h large, the pari* »ur-
ruiiiiiling thickened and enlarged, and if it appears tiha to liaw
bt-en recently wounded, it may be deemed a aeriouB im perfect ion.
Cutting on the insidct and immediately below tlie knee-joint,
or lite ^>eedi/ cut, &3 il is termed, is also a material defect, as
it sometimes causes a horse to foil suddenly iti trotting or gal-
loping.
'l*be hack sinews are next to be examined, by passing tho
Itand down the back part of the leg. If the tendon or sini-w
can be distinctlv felt, with the suspensory ligament, which lies
immediately before it; if the tendon feel clean and free from
swelling; and if the leg, on a side view, Appear flat, clean, and
sinewy, as ic is termed ; it may be considered as a sound, well-
formed leg. Bnt if the leg, on aside view, appear rather round
than flat, or rather bent and inclining inwanis; if the sinew
and ligament cannot be distinctly and separately felt ; and par-
ticularly if one leg IS larger than the other; it may be con-
cluded, that the part has sustained some injury, and that ihefe
ia a probability of the horse becoming lame, when put to hard
work.
If any mark he found on the knees, it is the safest olan to in-*
fer that it was occasioned by falling, though the seller should
affirm iliat it happened in going over the bar, stepping into a
boat, or by strikuig it against (he manger.
I'ew horses are entirely free from splents; they need not,
lerefore, be regarded, unless of a large si^e, immetliately below
the knee-joint, or so near the hock sinew, ur suspensory lii(a-
ment, a$ lo imerlerc with their action, or unless they arc tender
OH being pressed.
Id examining the hind legs, begin with the hock ; and if there
any spavin, it may be seen most readily by looking between
llic hocks, or still better by looking between the fore legs, ra-
t)H-r inclining lo one side. The lioncs, which form the projec-
lion on the inside of the liock, are in some horses rather larger
llian In others, whiih ehould not Ik; mi»taken for hone sjtavin :
but there is no great <li(Ii(;ulty in making tlie distinction, for
should both hocks be affected with »pavin, il rarely happens that
they are exactly alike, or of the siinie Kixe ; and when one hock
only is alfecli-d, the difrerenee if snlliciently nianifesL to point
out the diseaM-. A side vii-w of the liuck.s should next be taken,
ml if there be a curb, it will readily be perceived. Ohwrve, in
'<he next place, if there be any ringbone upon the pattern, \« Inch,
thcHigh a considerable defect, iw* not always produce Ininenest,
lUt more frwjuilitly in the loic h.-j; ih/ni the hind. 1 have lately
m>
m
i
3M
tllWUn or THE tlORRB.
•nil ii mare tliut was piircliue^l itlwut two vear* tfpi with a
rii)Kl)<">o o'l <'>*■' '■■'■^ luuUTti. Sh^ wiu tiot Laniv rrofn it. ami
never \tta been since llwt liHi«, tiiougli hiinied regularly for two
In examinin); the bottom of ilie hind bol, wl> have only lo
ncertain ihat it in not oflecbed vriili caiiker, or vi*ry hiid i linirim.
Some horses liare a tMideney to swelling of tUc liind Im, or
lo that <liscbarge from the heels which coiHlitutc* the (Imwm
termed greoM-; and twrsos witli while \eaa seen to be more cU»*
posed to this complaint than oltwra. When n hone'i hind log*,
tlierefore, apiH-ar (o be su-ollen, if the linir About die bi-el* ap*
|>par rou^h or fur/y, or if there be snra on the itceli, or an
n|ipi-arance of ihi-ir hnving iKvn nfft^ted with cracks or ulcers, it
may be itifi-rntl itiiit the horse i-i subject to grease and swelliiig
of the l«^
Having finUbed otir examtnaiion of the feet and limb*, «v
tliDuld proceed to Ok eye, which is an important part, and re*
quiree the motit card'ul in*]>ection. The most favounible »iliu*
tion for viewing tlu- eye is at the stable door, or under a nlK^d;
for whcu too nuich llj^ht falls upon the eye, so much i* refh-cted
by iu eoriica, or nur&ce, that it is difficult to see liie itucnul
part*.
The 1^ al wliicli the eyes most frequently become disoiurd ii
from five to «ix ; next to inM, from four to five ; soinetinHt, biii
not often, it liappctu after six ; after seven the diseaM; rarely
occurs, except from accidenLs, to which of course, tbey ai«
etgually expOM-d al all a^ra. In purchasing a t>or*>e, ihereron-,
about dre years old, it in nect-Hsiu-y tn be piirttculiirly aiteiitive
to llie state of the eyes. If tliey app<'ar dull, cloudy, or watery,
if the lids ap|}r;ir to Iw more closed titan uituil, if iht- inner
corner of the rvelid ap)K-iir [luckered u{>, and pantmlarly if ttirre
Ik* a manifest (lilTerx-nce in the np]H'itrance of the eyes, they mair
jusily l)e suspected of uiisoiiudneK*.
i»tving taken a geiHT«l view of the eye, the pu])il, or darii
bluish oblong spot in il» centre, should l)e closely and caivfnlW
examined; and if a dilFerenc*' is perceivnd iu llie »i«c of the iwn
pupits, i^ inxtcvul of a tlark blue colour, they appiMir cloudy.
or if white specks are so'u in them, a dixciiM-d state of the organ
is indicated. 1 have often olisecvt-d, however, that when a unall
speck Itns fuiined in the pupil it doc-s not gradually increase, u
by many it is supposed to do; on the contrary, 1 have, in many
instance*, known it remain hi the same slate for years without
causing any material impediment to vision. 1 should noi,
therefore, reject a horse simply on account of thb delVxt ; that
is, if tite uye* appeared perfectly hralihy in every other respect,
and particularly if the sfieck wns«mall, nearer the edge tlian llie
centre of the pupil, and only in oiic eye; it woulu be advia-
HINTS TO THE PURCHAaERS OF HORHES. 383
able, however, to be certain that the pupils are alike in size,
that they become small when the eyes are exposed to a strong
light, and enlarge again when the horse is brought into a darker
situation.
When an imperfection is observed in the eye, it is frequently
said to arise from a bite, or blow, or from hay seeds falling into
it; but though the seller should positively affirm this to be the
cause of the imperfection, I should always be inclined to doubt
it, because experience has taught me that the diseases of the
horse's eye almost always arise from internal causes ; that, how-
ever trifling in appearance, they are really of a serious nature,
and most commonly, even after they have been apparently cured,
terminate, sooner or later, in blindness. Too much caution,
therefore, cannot be observed in examining this important
parL
When the eyes become inflamed from a blow or bite, or from
any dust getting into them, the disease, although apparently con-
siderable, is seldom of long continuance; that is, when the injury
is not severe, and proper means are employed for its removal.
But when the inflammation has subsided, there often remains on
the surface of the eye an opaque spot, or film^ as it is termed,
which in severe injuries extends over the whole of the cornea,
or surface of the eye. After a little time, this opacity gradually
diminishes, and sometimes wholly disappears ; more commonly,
however, a small film remains, which does not in any material
degree impede vision ; this defect, therefore, is of no importance,
and may safely be overlooked, provided the purchaser is certain
that the opacity is really on the surface, and not in the pupil of
the eye, and that the other parts appear bright, and free from
every kind of imperfection. As a further security, a condition
may be annexed to the warrant}', by which the horse may be re-
turned in three or four months, should the imperfection prove
to be of a serious nature. When a complete cataract takes
place, which is known by the pupil being of a white or pearl
colour, the strength of the other eye b generally restored, and
it rarely becomes diseased afterwards, except from accidents : he
may, therefore, be safely purchased as a one-eyed horse.
We have now to extend our investigation to another point;
that is, the state of the wind, or, rather, of the lungs, and
Earts connected with them. When a horse is absolutely
roken- winded, there is no difficulty in detecting the disease:
the laborious breathing, or working of the flanks, particularly
in going up a hill, and the short asthmatic cough, are symptoms
which cannot escape observation. Between this state of the
lungs and perfect health there are many degrees, and it is the
intermediate defects that we find most difficulty in discovering.
The criterion by which dealers judge of the state of the wind, ia
C C
DISEABKS OP Tne HORse.
by no means a bad ono ; ihry make the liorse coiigli by |>ii><di^|
or gnaping the- top uf the windpipe : if Uie lun^s are iu I^P
state which constitute broken wind, or if ibey ore approaching to
that stale, the soimd of the coti(>h is so peculiar that it cannot
well be mistaken ; it b short and husky, exactly like thai of an
asthmatic person. When this kind of cou)ih is obwrvedi^H
hoi'E« should be rejected, even il" the motion of (be flanks apolH
perrccily easy and regular. I have, in several iti»tanc«s, known
bix>kcn wind apparently cured by keeping a liorse at fptaa ; tlui
it, he seemed to breathe with ease, and did not coufi|h wlien
moderately exercised, but by pinching the throat lliere was ^jta
that peculiar cough, and by keeping him in tlie stable aH
dayi) ne became as bad as erer. It is advisable, howevi^r, (or
ihow who have often occasion to purchase horses, to make thcin-
»e1v«8 (arailiar with the sound of this asthmatic or brokts*
winded cough: there will be no difficulty in this, as the CM^
phiiiit i« very common. Horses are more liable lo coughs d^|
other domestic animals. Tlie complaint is sometinK'* of liMe
importance, and with care easily removed ; it often provoi
however, extremely obstinate, and not unfi'equently incurabin
When a horse is observed to hare a cough at tho time of
jjurchasing, it is necessary to inquire whetlter it be a recent
uomplaini or one of long standing; and this ti a point thsi
cannot be always easily determined. In the old, or chronic
cough, as it is termed, ibe hor^; generally appears lively, fc«di
Iwariily, and apjiears in every other respect to Ik- in perfrct
health ; Rometimeii llie sound of the cough is husky, or asthmatic^
which indicates a tendency lo broken wind ; more commonly it
is loud an<l clear ; tlie fit of coughing is gcnerully violent, and
the horse ufteii appears as if some eximneoit* body Itad got inU
the windpipi', and he was endeavouring to cough it up.
The chronic cougli is most considerable whi:n tt>e horse it
first put in motion ; by continuing tlie exercise it graduailj
ccascii, after which the horse may be rode a long journey without
coughing. 1 have often oliservMl that Itonc* with chronic
cnngh are very shy of having their throats iuuc)H<d, often rest-
ing .-mil making cansidemble resistance when any nnc Bltem||flH
to nmke ihoni cough by gras|)ing the tup of the windpipe ; ^^H
in many instances I have oliserve<l iluii they cannot be made lo
cough in this way, however strongly iIh; windpipe be grasped:
tl)i», probably, as well as the sliynets they manili'st on the occasion,
may arise rruni the trini having born made often upon lliem.
In the recent cough, the horse generally appears ratlier dtilli
and looks like a hor»e lubouring under a catarrh, or cold : be
readilv coughs when the wii)dpi|>c is pinched ; in doing which
there is no difficulty, as the horse seldom makes any considerable
nesJataiiee. In the recent cough, moderate trotting is sufficicel
BINTS TO THE PURCHASERS OF HORSES. 887
to excite coughing, which is seldom diminished by continuing
the exercise. In tlic chronic coucti, the horse is sometimes re-
lieved by throwing up mucus through the nostrils; and the
cough is often so moderated, by strict attention to his diet and
exercise, as to appear scarcely worth notice. I have also known
it completely suppressed for the space of a day, by means of
opium. When a horse, therefore, is observed to have a cough
the purchaser may not always be able to determine whether the
complaint be unimportant, or of long standing, and incurable.
In such doubtful cases, it would perhaps be the most prudent
plan to secure himself by having a suitable condition added to
the warranty.
There b another complaint of the lungs, or parts connected
with them, and an incurable one, which the purchaser should be
guarded against This disease is named roariiy, from the
wheezing noise a horse makes when rode fast, particularly when
galloped up a hill : it is sometimes so considerable as to be heard
at a distance of many yards ; but in walking, or moderate exer-
cise, it can seldom be perceived. The method which dealers
usually employ to detect this complaint, at a repository, where no
other trial is allowed, b to whip the horse under the belly, and
make him turn suddenly, or by making him leap over the bar;
if be b a roarer, thb sudden exertion causes him to grunt. But
tfab criterion should never be depended upon when an opportu-
nicy oflers of galloping the horse.
The age of a horse is known by certain marks in the teeth,
as described in the preceding chapter. When these are worn
out, artificial marks are sometimes made, to make the horse ap-
pear younger than he really is. It often happens, also, that some
of the sucking, or colt's teeth, ate drawn out ; in which case they
are soon replaced by horse's, or permanent teeth ; this is done
with a view to make a horse of three or four years old appear
to be five. As experience alone can enable the purchaser to
detect these deceptions, it is advisable to have the age of the
horse always expressed on the warranty ; he can then avail him-
self of the first opportunity that offers of obtaining correct
information on the subject, and if he has been deceived, wUI,
no doubt, have a right to return the animal.
I have known persons so cautious when about to purchase a
horse, as to examine the neck, and if they find marks of his
having been bled often, they suspect, sometimes justly perhaps,
that he has had some serious complaint They have also thought
it necessary to inspect the chest, belly, thighs, or the parts
ii4iere rowels are usually placed, and if they observe the marks
which generally remain after rowelling, they suspect it was done
for a complaint of the eyes when the mark is under the throat,
or between the branches of the under jawbone ; and if in other
c c 2
DisCAses or thk hoiuc.
parts, Tor wliat iWy term humours, tint it, sn^elling of the It^M
or ereBBc. ^^
llaving linisliMl uur pxaminaiion oflhe hoTH^ ns it retain (»
soundness, wo have to inquire if hi- has any vicious habii», eucli
as cril>-bi(in!j;, ur if he is in any ck-gm- rt«livr.
Crib-biiinf; is ii vicious habit, wliich oficn causes a hoDu' lo
l)^cunK- lean atiiJ weak, and M>iiH-tinic-s renders bitn very 6til>j«<'t
to llutiilent colic. It is, ihcrerorot n dercct of importance, ami a
Imiuetit cause of unioumlnees. In crih-biling ihc horse Ib)1
liola of the ninngcr with his teetbi and appears to be sucking in
air vrith an almost convulsive efTort, and a sUgtit grunting noiic.
Tlte ninntter in which lhi» injures ii horse lui.'i iiol been KatisHte-
torily explaitii^l, but it is allowed by uU to bi* an imjiorunl
defect. It ntuy easily be detected) by watching the horse for «
short time in tlte stable.
Restiveiiesa is sontctimc* discoveretl by separaliiig s borw
from liis compniiion after riding together a few miles, or ofltf
riding hini and bringing bim back to his stable, by atiem[»utij;
to rl(W him ofT ugain. On tltcsc occasions, if a bor«o has any
rettivcneiu iw generally discovers it.
Uefore 1 finish this chapter, it may be proper to remind
the reader that we rarely meet with a horsv that is io evenr
rcspi-ct perfect ; and though, from the liigli price of the animal
it is necessary lo be very cautious, yet it is possible, perhapi>i
to carry our caution loo Inr; itint is, iIhtc may be foait
trilling imjierfi-ction, such as a small splcnt, which is nol worth
noticing. One caution I always think necessary, however pefr
feet tlie horec may ap[)ear, and this is, to have a receipl upoo
a stamp in the handwriting of the seller, in which tlic horse il
j dewriljcd, and warranted sound, and free from vice.
1 This will be found verj- useful should any defect afterwardi
Lappear which may render it iiecessary to return the horse. Il
> Is oy many thought necessary, when a horse u relumed, (o
put bim into the stable of lite seller, or lo get him lo receire UiO
norse ; but il Ims been established in our courts of law that ihit
is not necessary, and that it is sufficient to give notice, by i
wilnew, that llie hori>e is unsound or viciouo, or is nut whal lie
was warranted to be, and that he is ready to l>e delivered ufi
wJien sent for."
It is advisable, aAer purchasing, neither to have liim slwrd
nor lo give him any medicine, unlil satislied, by n sufficieiil
irial, tiiat he is in every respect sound.
• ]ij temirring llic home, nnd nrrrrwiircls pl.icing liini si lii-erj', the kcwvf
an unioiinil hone altrr iliis Ii-nilcr cm be rrcoicred ; It is, llirrclvre. (be Mil
nhii to adopt vthva tiK' si-Ucr is u nilrenc uml rcaponsibic dmi. If the bioa
1 Is ihiiM to s Uiiril finrtj, ndtr itue iiuiicv fiirn ut the tlcnkir, an action mu )•
, brought for ihi; iliUcrcnci- ht-lw itii thi- price givi-ii snd received by the rikiiiTif
If the bone be rtinincd.thc&i^iion inn.v twbTOufliE Tor ibe (liin»B(« Miwces
f he price given and Vis icti\ «»\ue.— ta.
HINTS TO THE PURCHASERS OF HORSES. 389
Perhaps I have dwelt longer upon this subject than some of
my readers may think necessary ; but it should be recollected
that it is intended only for those that are inexperienced in
horses. It may be thought, also, that what I have written may
tend to excite an unjust prejudice in the minds of those to whom
it is addressed, or that it may make them over- cautious, and
induce them to reject horses without sufficient reason : but, if
we take into consideration the many defects or diseases to which
horses are liable, the difBculty of detecting them, the numerous
deceptions that are practised, and the shifts and evasions some-
times resorted to, I trust that in what I have written the candid
reader will not accuse me of having gone too far, or that it will
excite an undue prejudice against the horse-dealer. I am aware
that there are men in that trade who would descend to the
deceptive practices I have occasionally hinted at, but have no
doubt that there are also to be found among them men of in-
t^rity and honour.
I cannot conclude this subject without advising those who are
satisfied witli a moderate degree of goodness !n a horse to put
up with a few trifling faults, as it often happens that the rider
is as much in fault as the horse; and after a little use these
trivial faults often disappear.
[There is no money better expended, when purchasing a
valuable horse, than the payment of the ten-shilling fee to a
TeapecUd>U veterinary surgeon, one whose professimal know-
ledge enables him to form, and whose repulaiion induces him to
give, a correct and honest opinion as to the soundness of a
horse. Through saving this trifling sum hundreds of pounds
have often been subsequently lost. The certificate of a veterinary
surgeon as to the soundness of a horse does not prevent such
horse from being returned should he afterwards manifest such
symptoms as would prove him to be unsound at the time of
sale. Cases may occur in which disease may exist in a latent
form, and which professional vigilance may be unable to detect.
But to one case of this sort tnere are hundreds in which the
unsoundness would have been detected by the veterinary sur-
geon, though not by the owner or amateur. There are two
grounds on which a horse can be returned, and the value re-
covered. One a breacli of warranty, the other on proving a
fraud. If a horse be warranted sound, free from vice, steady
in harness, and five years old, and he proves either unsound,
vicious, unsteady in harness, or more or less than five years, the
warranty is broken, and the horse is returnable. The war-
ranty must either be written or be given before a witness, and
must be at or after the time of sale, not before iu It is of little
use the dealer saying that he will warrant the horse unless he
actually does, and any professioiH that he may make &T&tiMn\. \»
c c 3
3!»0
W,lHRAtITY AND SOUNDKKAS.
notlitnf{ ; ihiti llioiigli lie were to say llie hone was tlio sountlr«i
animnl ever f()nli,"d, or the j^nllett creiitiire tliai ever looked
tliroiigl) n collar, it aniounu lo nutluiig utilcA^ )ie m-arratiu Uu
one or titc oiIht. A waminly before • witness h better ifaan
II written warranty without a wttiiets, but tt is not esveiitkl
that the latter tltoiild be written on a stamp provided the ny
cript for the ninticy is so.
A wnrrauiy <to(^ not extend to any limited time unlcM (peei-
Bi.-<\ lu-coriliii^ly, as at some of Ote great auction ntnrts. In
forini'r <lay!) it used to be i]>e law to allow a trial of so main
wivk* for lite eyes, and so many for the wind, Sec.; but such ii
not the cave at presenL
The other ground on which a horse can be returned, tliat of
fraiid, is more difficult to pnive. If a person sells to another u
ehnidered Iioi'j« at >uc)i a price as the animal would be wortli
if touiiil, it is an net of fraud, aiid tlie buyer can recover tlu'
ainoum us wril as tlutt of the damage, should the infection harr
been eommuniented to otlter lior«o» beloiijniig to him. If any
gross deceplidti be pmciised to hide a wilt llie horse it re-
lurriahle on the ground of fraud, though no warranty be given.
It is neceuary, liowev<'r, that the fault nfterwiirds disooverel
should not be of t>nch glaring dcsniption that any man of com'
mnn jiidgmetit would nave readily discorered, inch as a Urj^
blemish on the knee or lite absence of in eye ; for the law ex-
pects the purcliaser to exercise common vigihinee. In catet
where there exists K>mo temporary miHoimdncvs it i* desirable to
have such defect m<-ntioi)ccl Id tlu- warranty: the horse to be
returnable, or a fair ttllownnce made, if iIm- unMtumlness bt-
conicii perinaiieitt. In cjines wliere there is an inifiuundnM^,
but one to which the purcliaser does not object, it is desirabl^^|
Oiat a Qualified warranty »ltould bo given, — thai ts, sound t^^
every otlicr respect but this one exception.— Ed.J
Smmdnett,
[In wluit doc« soundncM consist? This (jucstion htu b«n> a
Bubjfct of llie moat contradictory o])iiiions, luit given birth to
numerotiji argiiitiviii«, and has MiJly puizk-<t the beads of lawyen
iheiiiselvt-s. Indeed, llie most opposite opinions have been ex-
pressed by the learned jiidgv«, at various times ; though, at the
present day, wIm'h the opinioii.l of vilvriimry turgeon* are al-
lowed more weight than furnierly, the decisions of the Ixiich are
miicli more unil'urm. IVrivct »uiiiidnes« appears to consist iii
the total absence of di«.>tue, but as this very seldom occur* in
hoi'^es that have he<.-n lucd; and us, from the rarity of ite exist-
ence, the strict definition would be useless, it is now unilerstood
to mean that ahor^; \\o& no diwasc or alteration of structure
HINTS TO THE PURCHASERS OF HORSES. 39t
that makes him in any respect less useful, or is likely to make
him less useful than he would be without such defect. Soundness
has, therefore, strict reference to utility ; it does not apply to
blemishes, although they may be alterations of structure and
produced by disease. Freedom from blemishes must be specified
in the warranty, in order to guard against them. With regard
to the greater number of points, veterinary surgeons are pretty
welt agreed as to what is unsoundness and what is not ; but there
are some cases in which there is a difference of opinion : some
practitioners, perh^, are too strict in their opinion, and others
not strict enough, but there are many, it is to be hoped, who
preserre the happy medium.
On the following diseases, no doubt can be entertained that
they constitute unsoundness : —
Lameness of all kinds and degrees ;
Diseases of any of the internal viscera ;
Cough of all kinds, as hng as it exists ;
Colds or catarrhs, while they last ;
Roaring * ; broken wind ; thick wind ;
Grease; mange; farcy and glanders ;
Ruptures or hernia of all kinds ;
M^rims, if manifested both before and after the time of sale;
Founder, and convex feet ; also contracted feet, unless natu-
rally so;
Ravins and ringbones ;
FTnlargements of the sinews or ligaments;
Cataracts and other alterations of structure in the eyes that
impede or are likely to impede vision.
Crib-biting is now considered unsoundness, as, though at first
but a vicious habit, its ultimate effect is to injure both strength
and condition.
The following diseases either may or may not occasion nn-
Boundness, according to the state or degree in which they
■ Some horses make a considerable noise either on first going oS* or on
being mucb excited, but which frequently goes off after awhile, and maj be
diattn^uished from roaring \>y_ the Utter increasing with speed and the former
diminishing. It evidently arises from soiiie peculiar action of the nostrils,
which may be seen to be greatly inflated, and thus produce a sort of Ttbrstion.
It is said that Eclipse, the celebrated race-horse, was a roarer ; ifso he must
iwTe be«n one of this sort, I have known many Bupcrior hunters make this
peculiar noiac. It docs not impede usefulness, and, therefore, although it
may be disagreeable, doea not constitute unsoundness ; for Lord Ellenborough
has decided that " if the horse emits a loud noise which is ofTensive to the ear
merely, from a had habit which he has contracted, or trom any cause which
does not interfere witli his general hculth and muscular [)awers, he is still to
be considered a sound horse : on the other hand, if the roaring proceeds froni
any disease or organic infirmity, which renders him incapable of performing
the usual functions of a hone, then it docs constitute unsouodness." —
Surteti on Warranty.
C C 4
WAHRAHTY iMO 801'KDNKSS.
cxtct : — Coriit^ kiiIcdI*, tliruslM^ bog spavins, tliorougli pins,
wind-jralls, crib-l>itiiig.
If corns nrc cxircmcly sliglit, being merely specks of ecch^-
, mosis, I tlioult) not txMiviHvr tiwm unsoutidncfs; if. howcveri
I iIk-j: nrc iiir^r, iin<l more pnrliculnriy if tlic foot is weak and &ai,
llii-y dwiikiilj- (:oii>litu«.> ui)i>i>iindn<;tH.
Spii-iiu, if rLtviii »iid uvindng tvndcriicss on being pressed.
arc causes of uiwoundnvM, and to likvwixc if lltcy are so Urn at
to be Rtruck by iIh" oiIm-t log. If, bowt-wr, ttwy arc small or
[|i)od<-iate ill size, nnd liave cxiittfd fur soinv limi' without occa-
[■ioiiiiig lameness, ibvy do not constitute unsoundness.
' Tliorougli pinn, bog ^jiAvins, und wiivd-gmlls mrely occasion
lami-ncxti. lii therefore, they are very slight and iinattcnclcd
with sttfTtM.-^ 1 do not consider tlicni uiisouiKlnvss ; if. boncver,
they arc ootisiderable or attended by tltc sliglitcst stifl^ess, they
must bo considered a.i unsoundnoss, but wind-gBlls are vei;
rtiifly *o: tlu'y iire, however, HlwayK bleinu^hvK, unices veij
.alighu
[ Curbs are unxotindnrss unloM llie horse hu worked with them
I for some months witltoul injury or inconvcniiiico.
Cutting, particularly Kpeinly cutting, coiutitutes unsoundaest
onlv when it cannot be reniwlioil by cnrc or skill.
0|ia4)ue speck* or streaks in lite tranxpun-nt conioa, evideaitty
llie eflect of blows or accident^ and attended wiib no inSon-
ination, do not comtituiv unsoundncM unless llu.'y materially
interfere vriili vision.
Very slight specks on the crystalline lens, evidently on iU
capsule and not in its substance, often disappear, nnd rarelj
[prove injurious, and therefore siiould not be considered un-
soundness. This, however, is a disputed point.
Quiddin^ is generally removeabic, but, when confirmed, it
ofk-n materially Injun's the usefulness of the horse, and in such
case is unsoundness.
Dragging the toes of the hind feet so as to irear away the
etmt to such n degree as to cause or thi«aien lameness is cer-
bunly unsoundness, and in a lesser degree constitutes a blemish.
Tnoae defects comprehended under the term blemishes are:
— Scars, the eflecis of broken knees ; cappe<l hocks, solnilj^
bog spavins, and thorough-pins, even when these def<fclB ao i»t
occasion unsoundness; Toes of hair from blisters or scars; en-
largemcnu from blows or cutting ; specks or streaks on tl>e cor-
nea, and a few oUiens unnecessary to mention.
Unth-r liie tenu vices we comprehend — restiveness, shying.
b<^ting, nuuiiiig away, kicking, rearing, biting, kicking in the
stable or wli<ti shoeing, weaving or moving t}ie head from side
to side, stringtialt, conlii-nied <)iiidding or throwing out die
HINTS TO THE TURCBASEIIS OF HORSES. 393
food. Slipping the halter, or being frequently cast in the
stable) may also amount to vice.
It is the duty of a veterinary surgeon to point out blemishes
and vices too, when he perceives them, and when there are any
doubtful points, such as curbs or specks in the eye, a specific
warranly should be given that such defects shall not prove in-
jurious, within a given time,— a precaution as desirable for the
seller as (he buyer. It must be borne in mind, that a horse may
have serious defects not comprehended in the above description,
yet requiring much vigilance and materially affecting the value
of the animal, such as stumbling, dropping, crooked and stale
fore legs ; or, indeed, any bad conformation of importance. —
Ed.]
394
PART IV.
UATEBIA 3IKDICA AND PHABUACOPCEIA.
INTnODUCTION.
TiiK roHowIng ponion or the work consbu of n Maticku
MrnicA, Uiat U, ft <l4»criptwn of the virioiis articles or irvff
fitiploycd in mi-dicine, c^>«ially «ich a* are used in vetert:
priictiw; and » PiiAWMAcoprF.iA, or directions for compou:
or mixinf; them, with occa»ioi)nl olwervntions on tli« dtseaw*
which they nrv usually ptwcrihod.
In itome forntrr Mlilioiu the Phamiacopocin nmi Matcra
Medica fornx-d two diittinct parts ; in tlie present tliey ui^ in-
corporated ; iliat i«, the tnediciiial article or drug, the ctiua (o
which it beloiipt, and ihc foniHils or receipts, are arranged in
the same alphitlx-t. This pliui appeared to tlw author more COQ-
venient than dial origiiuilly adopted. Some readers will tierhafi
object to tlie number and variety of the formutie, as w«ll n u
the number of ingredients which aome of ibem contain; but.
however desirable simplicity may he in medicinal conijiosition,
tlierr iS) iH-rhnjKt, a limit which it would Ih- dangerous to [nui>
On this subject. Dr. I'aris, in hi* I'liannacold^^ia, make« thv ~ ~
lowing remark : " 1 have alrendy o))»erved that nil cxirav
ty»tenu lend, in tlie course of limv, to introduce prw:ticc8
OMwntc kind: this irnth fimls n ]>»werful ilh»lra(ion in l>ie
history of medicinal combination ; and it bcconH-* a aeriov
queatioiii whether the disgu:>t so justly excited by the pobffilw
maey of our predect-siom may not Iiave induced ihe physidao of
tite present <lay to carry hiw j<)e4is of simplicity too tar, to o* to
nefilect and lotc the advantages, which in many caaeSf beyond all
doubt, may be obtained by scieniific combination.'' ** I thinkf'
aays Dr. I'owel, "it may be ntAcrti'd, without fear of coniradie-
lion, thai no medicine com[>oundi.-<l of five or ux simple articttt
lias hiihertu had lis |x>wcrs examined in a rational nmni>er.*
Dr. Fordycc first demoiiainited the vxistenco of the siiigtilar and
important law, that a mmbitiatioii of similar ntnedic^ will pro-
duce a more certain, speedy, and considerable efl*ect, ihaii an
equivalent dose of any single one; thus ratliartics not onlv
acquire a very great increase of power by combination witli each
other; but tliey are at ilie same time rendered leas irritalinft iti
(^eir oj>eration. Tlie same observation l> applied to otlicr
> INUh
MATERIA HEDICA AKD FHARUACOP<£lA. 395
classes of mediciaes, especially to diuretics, alteratives, cordials*
and tonics. The sanction of such authorities is sufficient, it is
hoped, to obviate any objections that may be made to the com-
plexity of some of the formulie : and though the structure of the
human stomach and parts connected with it is so dif^rcnt from
those of the hone, as to render all analogical reasoning as to the
effect of medicine uncertain, yet we have been too precipitate,
perhaps, in dismissing it almost entirely from our consideration.
There are several medicines, such as sugar of lead, white vitriol,
&c^ which produce scarcely any effect on the horse, though of
considerable power in the human body; yet it is not very impro-
bable that such medicines when given daily for some time in
small doses may produce a salutary effect, or even prove delete-
rious when largely and incautiously so employed. Arsenic has
been given to a horse in a dose of two drachms twice a day, for
several days, without any considerable effect being produced ;
bat in one case a sixth part of that quantity occasioned a fatal
inflammation of the stomach and bowels. When the stomach of
a horse is in a healthy state, it will bear an astonishing quantity
of medicines which in the human stomach are either poisonous
or powerful medicinal agents ; but in some diseased states of the
horse's stomach, which are not unfrequent, the same medicines,
or others commonly deemed innocent, will produce a powerful
and even fetal effecL Mr. James Clark relates two cases of this
kind:— one of the horses died from taking a pint of vinegar,
and the other from taking a drench in which there was one
ounce of nitre and half an ounce of spirit of hartshorn. The
experiments that have been made with a view to ascertain the
effect of medicine upon the horse should not be too confidently
depended upon, as Uiey have generally been made on glandered
bones, or such as were incurably lame; in which case it may
lairly be presumed that the stomach was in a healthy state. The
experiments that have been tried also to ascertain the effect of
tobacco on the horse afford a striking proof of the propriety of
attending to this circumstance. At the Veterinary Collie an
immense dose (it has been stated three pounds, in infusionj has
been given without any perceptible effect; at Exeter a much
smaller quantity, not exceeding, I believe, two or three ounces,
was infused in a quart of beer during the night, and in the
morning given to a horse at one dose ; immediately after taking
it the animal fell down and died.
From considerations of this kind, the Author has been led to
believe, that simplicity of prescription in veterinary as well as
human medicine, may be carried too far; and that many useful
medicines, and combinations of medicines, or receipts, may be
improperly dismissed from the Veterinary Materia Medica and
Pharmacopoeia, were we to confide too much in the experiments
396 MATERIA MEDICA.
that have been made on the healthy stomach, or attempt to form
general rules or deductions from one, two, or three experiments,
liowever carefully they may have been conducted. TTiere is only
one source from which any precise or really useful knowledge a
this interesting subject can be derived; that is, a car^iil andin^
partial observation, and an accurate recollection o^ the tymptam* t^
diseases, and the effects of such medicines, whether simple or com-
pound, as are employed for their removal.
With respect to the names of the simple and compound medi-
cines, the Author has for the most part employed those of the
last London Dispensatory, by Thomson, 1830; but he hu
given also the older and more common names, and in such t
manner as may make the general reader, or the young Veteri-
narian, ^miliar with both : for our medical nomenclature, even
when founded on chemistry or botany, will probably be variable
and uncertain.
[The additions made by the Editor of the present edition are
by no means numerous. They consist principally of some aew
medicines, whose effects have been ascertained to be useful or
valuable in the horse. In supplying this, he has had free re-
course to the Veterinary Pharmacopceia, lately published t^
Mr. Morton, Lecturer on Chemistry at the Veterinary CoU^e, to
whose valuable work he begs to refer for a more scientific acquaint-
aftce with the greater portion of medicines used for animals.
In former Editions, the names and properties of a number of
medicines were given which had cither never been tried, or had
been found useless for the horse ; these have been freely erased,
as their i-etentioii could have answered no useful end. There
are some medicines, however, whose use and value for animsls
have been disputed, being praised by some and condemned by
others ; these have been retained in order to afford every facility
to those who fvould again try their effects : the convenience of
parties in situations where particular medicines cannot be ol^
tained has also been considered in the present Edition. The
Editor, in condensing this portion of the work, has endeavoured
to render it more valuable. — En.j
WEIGHTS AKD MEASURES.
The measures employed in medicine are of two kinds, one for
solids, the other for liquids. But there are some fluids much
heavier than water, such as sulphuric acid and Goulard's Ex-
tract; and there are others much lighter, such as ether and
alcohol or spirit oE wine-, sucVv Vit^wvis ate, therefore, sold by
AND PHARMACOPIEIA. 397
weiffht. Formerly a drop was the smallest liquid measure ; tliis
being found very variable, depending upon the size and form of
the vessel from which tlie liquid was dropped, upon the density
of the liquid, and other circumstances, a more correct and con-
venient method has been estabiishcd. For tills purpose a small
glass measure is made, in which the drachm, or sixty grains, is
divided into sixty parts, which arc named minims; it is therefore
named a minim glass, and the term minim is substituted in pre-
scriptions or receipts for drops.
lAquid Measure.
Medical
charncCer.
60 minims M. minim I drachm
8 drachms X drachm I oimce
16 ounces t ounce 1 lb. or pint
2 pints or lbs. ... IB pound 1 quart
4 quarts qrt. quart 1 gallon.
The Latin word Octarium is sometimes used for pint, and
Congius for gallon; Cyathus, a tea-cup full; Cochleare Mag-
num, a table-spoonfull, or about half an ounce; Cochleare Me-
dium, a dessert-spoonful, or about '2 drachms; Cochleare Mini-
mum, a tea-spoonful, or 1 drachm.
Dn/ Measure (Troy).
Medical
character.
20 grains gr. grain 1 scruple
3 scruples ..-3 Ecriiple 1 drachm
8 drachms ....^ drachm 1 ounce
12 ounces 3 ounce 1 pound*
^ pound.
M. or Manipuhis, signifies a handful.
P. or Pugillum, the 6th part of a handful.
In reading' French medical or veterinary books, some difficulty
is experienced in bringing their measures to correspond with
ours, in consequence of dicir having adopted a decimal division,
both in their liquid and dry measure, and they also appear to
feel a similar inconvenience from the difference between liie old
and the new division of measure. For example: in Thomson's
London Dispensatory, the French gramme is stated to be equal
to 15*444 grains, or about 15 grains and a half. Dr. Nysten, in
his Dietionnaire Medicate, makes the gramme amount to 20
grains; and in Bourgelat's Matiere Medicale, by Huzard, it is
stated to be equal to 16 grains. Tlierc appear to be some errors
* Medicines are bought and sold by Avoirdupois weight, in which the
pound consists of sixteen ounces, or one Tuunh more than Troy 'Ne^%^v.
398
MATERIA MEDICA
in Dr. Thomson's Tables, and it it equally clear, that neither
Nysten or Huzard are correct The following table of Frcneli
medical weights is from Nysten's French Medical Dictionary: —
Livrc, the pound
Once, the ounce
Scrupule, the scr.
Equal to
Keu} Niatna,
Hectognunnm
^^
Gnmmes
33
Oramnie
20 gr. 1
Centigranunet
5
f Hectogn
12 oz. .^
I Gnmo
J 1 dr. 32
Grain
12 oz. are equal to 3) hectt^rammes, new weights
1 ounce to 32 grammes
1 drachm to 4 grammes
1 scruple. to I gramme
1 grain to 5 centigrammes.
'Diere is an obvious error in this table; for if one gramme ii
equal to one scruple, four grammes must exceed one drachm. I(
therefore, four grammes are equal to one drachm, one gramme can
only be equivalent to fifleen groins, instead of a scruple or twmtj
grains. The following tables are also taken from Nysten's Di^
tionary : —
Old Measuret. New Measures.
Decilitre. Centilitra.
1 potsson 125 grammes, or 1 2
1 demi seller.... 250 or 2 S
1 cliopine 500 or 5 0
1 pints 1000 or 1 litre 0 0
New Measures. Old Measures,
Grsmniea lb. oi. dr.
1 Centilitre, equal to 10 or 0 0 ^ aboutaspoonful (cuiller^)
1 Decilitre 100 or 0 3 1 about | of a poisson
1 Litre 1000 or 2 U 3^ a little more than a qnajt.
In Crabb's Technological Dictionary, the French litre ii
stated to be equal to the 35tb part of an English bushel, which
contains 8 gallons or 32 quarts.
In Nysten's last table, 1 centilitre is said to be equal lo 10
grammes, or half a drachm. This is a considerable error j for if
the gramme be taken only at 15 grains, 10 grammes would amount
to 150 grains, or 2^ drachms.
AND PHARHACOPCBIA. 999
VETERINARY MATERIA MEDICA AND
PHARMACOPCEIA.
ABLUENTS (from ad/uo, to wash away). Medicinal liquids,
or water slightly impregnated with mucilage, such as bran tea,
or white water, linseed tea, or decoction of manh mallows, wliich
are supposed to wash away or carry off gradually any noxious
matter there may be in the stomach or bowels, the biliary or
urinary passages, or the blood.
ABSORBENTS. Medicines that absorb or neutralise any
acid matter there may be in the stomach or bowels. Of this
kind are potash, soda, magnesia, chalk, common clay and earth;
the two last owe their absorbent properties to the carbonate of
lime they contain. The formation of acid in the stomach de-
pends on some derangement of that important organ, which is
brought on by the improper quantity or quality of the animal's
ibod. It will be to little purpose, therefore, to give medicine to
absorb the acid, unless the state of the stomach be corrected,
which cannot be done without avoiding the cause which dis-
ordered it. Thb morbid state of the stomach, and consequent
formation of an acid in it, is very common among horses, and is
indicated by a disposition to eat earth or drink muddy water,
especially when it is rendered turbid by clay or chalk ; and for
want of these they will gnaw or lick the walls of the stable, or
the dirt from their stalls, or eat their litter. This state of the
stomach appears to be brought on by eating too much hay,
especially when the hay is indifferent or bad ; and this propen-
li^ to eat too much hay is acquired gradually, by keeping young
horses idle in the stable with a rack full of hay before them, and
allowing them too much water; also by irregular feeding, that
ii^ keeping them tasting too long, and then giving them as much
as they choose to eat and drink; or by giving them bad hay, and
an insufficient quantity of oats, or baa oats as well as bad hay;
exposing the animal to cold and wet, when heated and fatigued
by exercise, will disorder the stomach, and immoderate work
will do the same. In whatever manner this morbid condition of
tbe stomach is brought on, it must be obvious, aflcr what has
been said, that absorbent medicines can only act as palliatives,
and as such they are certainly useful. It is advisable, however,
to give in the first place a mild dose of physic. If good hay
cannot be procured, some good straw may be substituted for it,
and a mash of fresh sweet bran, or pollard, by some named
400
ffur^infft. When iii^- or musly oats arc tin* cati*o o( (i»c ilseaAt
ana betier cannot be liati, they sUoiil<l bi> drinl on a tnall kiln:
or some barlcj- that has been boiled or stcvpcd for twenty or ihiny
hours in water may be given. 'Hie farinaceous or saocfaariM
root*, such as potatoes, parsnips, mangel-wurzel, or carrots, m^
be found useful, especially if cooked by steam. Tliough an im-
provement in diet is the rcmi-dy to be mainly relied upon for
reslurtng the stomach to health, there arc otlier circumstanw>
to be atlrnded (o, which may hasten or aisist in the cure. Vun
air, regular exercise, assiduity and kindnns in the groom, sml
llie society of other ltor»es, viill greatly cxhilamie the nnimaJ'i
spirits. Slid thereby improve the digestire finiction. WIten iht
season is favourable, a run at grass in short sweet pasture it
perhaps ttic most eHVcliuil reiixily of all.
Though animals are led by instinct to eat dirt and drink
muddy water, in order lo allay the iiritalion caused by an BOid
in the stomach, much mischief has sometimes nrisen fromallowiff
horse* lo indulge such an appetite. Mr. Fcron ■Intes that dmbv
' bu) nttncks of colic Irnve been prminn-d by horses i-ating etrtl
or nnd when at cainji, as it accumulate* and formi; large
in tlte boweU ; ihnl he lias opened horses iliat died from
cause, and found nearly two buckets of saml in the eseum snJ
colon (the Urge bowels). Hard stones of considerable hits an
sometimes found in burses' bowels, most commonly in mtllen'
ItorsoK. I liavf seen one that weighed eiglic pounds, and I lliiok
there is one in the Museum of ihe Veterinary Cotle|^, thtt
weighs ten pounds. Cattle that are tied up during the wJntff
often acquiiv a propensity to lick upeanh; they also, m ibeir
coata become loose on the approach of spring, are frc^uendT
licking themselves, and often swnllow a great ^1 of hair, whicli
is formed into balls in the siomBch, and sometimeii oecMtoM
serious disorders. I h.ivc known a groat number of ibrw ImlU
discharged by the droves of cattle iliat pass throuifh Onk-hiU,
towants Uenegar Fair, in Whitsun week; someof ihcni as Itiiw
OS a man's list. Calves, when fatlening, are often led M injuol-
ciouKty, as to bring on terious disordei-s of the stonwdi. This
organ in the calf, and probably in all animals, has rbc pr<^»Tty
of coagulaling milk; but when it is disordered by l>eing (wcr-
loadeu with milk, or by drinking stale milk, or milk fronra cow
that )uB a bad udder, an acid ap^teara lo lie fortnvtl in die
stomach, which sometimes coagulates the milk atiddeidy, and
forms it into hard indigestible curds, similar to cheehe; I have
known cjilves and lambs die from (his cause. It in a common
practice with farmers, to give young lamb^ ehnlk, mixed with
barley or oatmeal, when laltening them, 'i'hi* certainly dow
some good, by correcting the acidity of the stomach ; but still
llicy arc often aifecled with either diarrha'a, or coatEvvocss, nnd
AND PHAUMACOPCeiA.
i^'HVet' appetite, and sometimes with colic and convuUiona. It
woulc! be much belter, therefore, in fititening calves, to adopt a
pructicc more confonnnble to nature.
jittorimts.
No. 1. Stibcarboimtc of »oda 2 to 4 dr.
Ginger I dr.
Columbo root, powdered 2 to 4 dr.
Mix for one dose.
No. 2. Prepared Chalk 4 dr.
Geotiaii root, powdered 2 to 4 dr.
Aromatic powder 1 to 2 dr.
No. 3. Alocfi 3 dr.
Rhubarb 3 or 4 dr.
Subcarbonate of soda 2 or.l dr.
Ginger t to 2 dr.
Treacle enough to form the ball.
JtemarL — No». 1 and 2. arc absorbent and stomachic, and
may cither be given in a Ultlc f^iiel, water, or beer, as a drench,
or made into a hull with tri>acle. Should there be no con-
venience for giving either of these, the horse would probably
swallow thorn with bis food or water, especially if tbe bitter
powders were omitted.
Xo. 3. is a gentle purgative, a^ well as absorbent and Btomacliic,
and is that which should be preferred when a horse can be
spared from his work for a day or two. The receipts Nos. 1 and
S. may K> repeated daily as long as it is necessary ; and at an in-
lerval of a week or ten dava the purgative may be repealed.
ACACIA CATECHU, commonly, but improperly, called
Terra Jsponica, or Japan Earth, and Catechu, or more properly
Extract of Catechu, ia obtained from the inner dark-coloured
wood of an Acacia tree, which grows plentifully in the mountains
of Kankaiia, in Ilindostaii, and flowers in June. The wood is
bolted in water, and when .itrained off and twiled down to one-
thitd part, is set in a place lo cool for one day, and afcerwar<ls
■he evaporation is completed by the heat of the sun. Tliere nrc
two varietiea of tliis extract; one brought from Dengiil, the
other from l)oml>ay. The latter kind is ot a pnle reddiah'brown
colour, and is generally in small square cakes; the other is in
rtrund masses, of a deep chocolate colour internally, with the
hue of rusty iron on ihe outside; it is liearier than the pale, its
apeciBc gravity being g<-nt-rally iibotit I '39, possesses more
niitringency, and >hould thei'efure Ix: prelerretl. Catechu is a
powerful astringent, and in given in obstinate diarrhoea, as the
scouring of cattle, and in diabetes, or excessive stating. I have
D D
MATTHIA SrtMCA
von it also with good elTect in bltxxly urine. In the two
MUT dincoKes, I tiave given it with opium, ginger, and some-
times witi) hluin ; and in the first witn allspice, caraway >e«dsi
and ginger, »itiiniered in half a pint of table beer, and arterwards
mixed wiili Iiuir a pint of good ale^ or strong beer. 'I1ie doM
ofcfltechn is t'rum 1 lo 4 drachms. I niii inclined to think tlial it
would be Ibmid a ui^ful tonic, in ikabilual or conttitutionai
weakness of bowels ; ilmt is, in horses that scour from luiy ud-
tuual mercis«^, or upon drinking cold water ; also in case* of
genvriil debility. Alkaline sails deatmy like a^tringi-nt powen
of catechu, and meialtic salts form with it insoluble compounds.
ACACLi:(JUMMI, ACACIA GUM. Gum Arabic. Thii
gum is procured from the bark of a species of mimosa, which ii
very common in Egypt, and Arabia Pelreea. Several other
troe« also produce it, and it is remarkable that the bark» of those
trei» from whicii it is obt^ned are extremely bitter. Cheny
nnd plum tree* are an instance of ihis. ITwre are two prinoptl
sorts of gum Arabic, one procured from the Levant, aiiotlier
from the Easi Indict, 'llic latter is ilie darkest, ts not lo
readily soluble in water, and forms a thick(;r tnuciliigv tlian the
former. The mucilage of acAcia is fonncd by gradually adding
half n pint of boiling water to four ounces of tlw giim in powder,
until tbcy form a mucilage. Although it exerts no epecilic
action upon the sj'stem, still it i* exiremcly utwfiii as a demul-
cent, forming, as it were, a cont wliicli xiiiclds those psrti
through which ii glasses from ilie action of acrid substancn. It
SB prescribed in inflammation or irritation of the feoces and
alimentary canal, and in painful affections of the urinary orgont.
ACETATE. A salt formed by combining aoeiic acid or
pure vinegar with an alkali, an earth, or a mciallic oxidf.
There are several acetates u»ed in Veterinary Medicine, coch of
which will be noticed under its reepecti\-e name.
AcxTATE op Ammoma, SoLirrioN OF. — Liquor jimmatiir
Acatatit. Formerly named Mindererns's Spirit, and is made bv
adding vinegar to carbonate of ammonia in powder, until >I
ceases to produce effervescence ; about an ounce of the carbooBK
of ammonia will be Kutficienl for two pints of vinegar. It tnsy
aUo be made, by adding spirit of hartshorn to vinegar till it
loates neither salt nor sour. Mr. illaine strongly recommends
this medicine In febrile dtsewe, and epidemic catarrh wlicn
debility is present combined with camphor and camomile. Its
action is diaphoretic, slightly diuretic and tonic, tlte dose from 4
to 6 ounces. 'I'he Editor lias given it in influenza with good
effect.
AcETATK OF Coppp.B- — Ciipri Di-oftios. This was formerly
named crystallised verdigris, anrl distilled verdigris. It is cora-
ptued of tlte oxide of copper and acetic acid. Ii is mmetimn
AND PUARMACOPOtU. A03
employed finely powcUred as an pscliarotic to cleanse foul ulcers^
ana has been used with guoccsb as a i-emedy for quittors.
Acetate of Lead. — I'lumbi Acelas. Is made by mixing on«
pine of strong acetic acid (vinegar) iviih a pint and a half of
boiling distilled water, and tlien adding gradually one pound of
aubcarbonate of lead. The solution is llien to be filtered
ihrou^i paper and evaporated until a thin pellicle appears on its
surface, when it may be put by in order that cryalala may form.
Tliese, after pouring off the water, are to be dried upon blotting
Bper. The superacetatc of lead is commonly named Sugar of
■ad, and (be liquid subacctate, Goulard's Extract of Lead.
Mr. Morton recommends sugai' of lead for internal liGemorrlmge,
and for protracted diarrliipa and diabetes in doses from half a
tlrachm to a drachm. Sugar of lead has been given internally ;
but I consider all ilie preparations of lead not only uniieceHwiry,
but dangerous as internal lemedies, though one very large close
may be given wtdiout any perceptible effect. AnimalM have
often been jioisoned by grazing in the neighbourhood of lead
mines; tliis is well known in the parish of Wuokey, near Wells.
The disease tliu* produced is there named minderini^ ; or rather
the animals %o aflVctcd are said to be tnindemt.
ACE'ilC ACID and ACKTOUS AClD.—AcidamAKli-
Aeidum Arrtnmm. See AciDs and Vinkoak.
ACIDIFICATION. A natural or artificial operation, by
which an acidiRablc substance, becoming saluraled with oxygi-n,
acquires the property of an acitl. The acidifiwi substance is
called the batf, and its nan>e designnteit the particular acid of
which it forms a part. Thus, the haae of sulphuric or carbonic
acid is sulphur and carbon.
ACIDS. All substances whether solid or liquid, which have
a sour taste, are termed acids, although it by no means follows
tliat all acids arc sour; prtissic acid, for instance, is not so.
Most acids are composed of oxygen, in combination with n com-
bustible base, and when several itcids lutvc the Mime base, united
wtlh different proportions of oxygen, the name of that which
contains the larger portion terminates in ir, while (hat of the
one combined with the smaller quantity ends tn ous; thus nitric,
nitrous; phosphoric, phosphorous; sululuiric, sulphurous; &c.
Acids possess (he property of changing the blue juices of
vegetables into red, and of readily combining with alkalies,
earths, and metallic oxides, forming with ihcm various kinds of
salts, which are used in medicine. Of this kind are the pre-
parations commonly named Glauber's salt, Epsom salt, blue and
white vitriol, sugar of lead, Jkc. : each of these will be noticed
under its re3]>ective name. Acids arc divided into three clasaesi;
viz, mineral, vegetable, and animal acids. The mineral acids
used in veterinary practice are the sulphuric, (he nitric, and the
D u 2
i
HATERIA MEDICA
morkUci Of Uu vi^ul>le only tn-o ; vis., the acelic, or Wflfl
arid, commonly named vinc^r; and ihc tartaric acid, or raaH
tlif coinbtiiiitioti ol' ill with a unall pro]>ortion of {H>titUi, whicb
is niun«l crt-nni of tartar : no other acids are etnpluyt--d.
Acii), Acetous ok Acetic, — Acidum Ace/icum. A strong
ucctrc iicid 1$ iiuw v«ry oommonly obtiiiiitfd fi-oni wood, bjdH
lillutioii in iroit cylinders. When all the act<l nm) otlicr volafl
[Hiria have hi-eii cxpt>lled, there rpmains in ihc iron cylinder ibe
ix'iic kind of clinrcoal. Tiie li<)iiid is at firat very impure, lad
roininoiily nivmed pyroligiteous aci<l, but by itnoil»er proccM it ii
IHirificd, and bcwmiea a pure and powerful acelic arid. It im
of Ink- bi't-ti much iisc<l Tor medical as well as culinury purpoM&
Strong ac*.'lic or pyroligneous acid is abotii six times the
strength of common vinegar. It is very uvful niv\ convvnieal
Jbr veterinary purposes, either as a rubdTadenl, on nutiseptic, or
nn ingredient in cooling lotions. For velerimiry purpom.
conimon vinegnr will do vciy well. Ho* vinegar is sometimn
u«.>d as a fumvntation for decp-w-ntetl mrainx; it is ust>d oho
witli Wfttrr as a cooling lotion ; »oiii«-liim-s it is employed witli
llic nddition of crude siil ammoniac (muriale of nmmonia) and
spirit of wine ; it is seldom given intenuilly. Mr. James Clirk
relates n case of a horse dying immediately after being drendied
wttli a pint of rim-gar. Contbined with water it forms an ex-
c<^llent lolion for washing out small [articles of lime from tlie
eye.
Acid, Mi;RiATic. (New name, HyniiocuLoRic Acid.)—
Aeidum Hifdroehlorkum, Commonly called spirit of soil. Tfai*
is sometimes used externally as a caustic, and is an excellent
agent in neutralising putrid miasmata. When united with
earths, alkalies, or metallic oxides, it forms mutiaU: Muriatic
acid is now denominated hydrochloric acid, the real acid con-
tained in ilic liquid preparation being composed of equal voluowt
of chlorine and hydrogen. On exposure to the air it emits
fumes which are readily seen. It has been given with advantage
in cases of calculi, in doses of one drachm to three in n pial of
water, continued for some time. Its elfect is to soften and even
dissolve the calcareous body. ^^H
Acin, NiTiiic AN't> \iTiiuus. — Aeidum Nitricam el Nilnm^M
Both these are powerful caustics. The first is limpid or eolmv-
less, and transparent like water; the nitrous actd U of a duk
yellow colour, and gives off stitfocating fimia of a tU-vp yelkw
colour on opening the bottle in which it is kept. Tills acid it
obtained by ibe uetioa of sulphuric ucid on nitre. Some uwAil
external applicniioiis are made from nitrotis acid, especially
nitrate of silver or lunar caustic, and nitric oxide of tncrcuiy or
I'cd pi-ecipitate. Sweet sntril of nitre, now named spirit of
iii'fmm eitier> ti nuule by tfie disiillalion of nitric or nilrous acid
ANn PliARtlACOPCEIA. 405
mr flMOB-S .but little different in tW-ir niecUcinal properties),
»ii<) tSSSSSt^OT spirit n( wiiio. 'llmt very tiM'fiit ^It niiiiied
jiiwo is composed of nitric acid nnd ]>oia«li. Wlien nitric or
nitrous acid is diUiu-d witli aii vtjiml cjuantity of water, it furniB
aquajvrtis. Nitrous acid or aqua fortis should be kept tn a
botllc witli a glass stopper, ns a cork is soon destroved by it.
Wheti (juicksilvi'r or copper are dissolved in nitrous acid, ihcy
»re employed as reme<Iic5 for llie fool rot in slieep, or lltc canker
in liorses, either alone Dr diluted wiih water, or they may be
mixed with liyg** lard, provided the latter be first melted, and
the iiitxiuK* stirre<t until it becomes cold. Nitric acid forms
nitratf*i wlieit combined with the alkalis, earths, or metallic
oxides.
Acid, Pkuhsic. " J^cw name, Hydrocvanic Acid, Acidum
Jfyflrmyanicvin. Tins acid is composed of liydrogen and
chlorine. It is a most powcrfid poison ; a few drop? being
sufficient to destroy many large animals.
" By the I'harmacopteia. it is directed to be prepared of such
strength, that (wo parts of real acid shall be contained in 100
parts of the dilute acid. Dilute hvdroevanic acid is a trans-
parent liquid, free from colour. Its action is that of a power-
ful sedative, and may be given to the liorse in doses of from
half a drachm (o a drachm and evni more ; for it is surprising
wliat larg^e do!»es, when gi'adually increased, this animal wilt
bear. I have administered four fluid drachms; and altliotigh
the action was very violent for a time, thei'e being a loss of con-
•ciousness, with convulsive movemenia, stertorous breathing, and
aoceleraied pnlie, yet this passed awtiy, and then its sedative in-
fluence wan »)iDwn by the pulse being lessened in frequency, and
the vital powers depressed. It hat been given in cases of gastric
and pulmonary irritation, accompanied with cough; also in
carditis; and by wmv it ta advocated as a vermifuge, slowly
thrown up nt an enema, in quantities of n drachm two or three
times in the day, and mixed with uboul a quart of water, it has
been found to k-ssen the muscular contractions in telanus. Tlie
impresaioi) of ttie lint injection on tlie nervous system it very
Itowcrful, but subsequent ones produce comparatively little
action that is apparent. It may be given by the mouth in the
same disease, after the bowels have been acted xiyon by a pur-
gative, combining it with other sedatives for the purpose of
tranquillising the excitement of the motor nervi,^ and thus
olluying the general muscular spasm." — See Morltm't Mantuil.
Acii>, St;LPHt;itic. — Acidum Sulphurieum. Vitriolic acid, or
oil of vitriol. This is the strongest of the mineral acids, and n
very powerful caustic. It was formerly made by distilling green
vitriol, or copperas (sulphate of iron), and then named vitriolic
Kid; it ia now made from sulphur, and t\iGrvCoi« wilwwA 'w\- ^^
1) i> 3 ^1
400
MATEIIIA HEDtCA
phuric acid. Sulphuric acid b Bomctimcs nscd u n caustic in
canker of ilte liorse's foot ; it ib »)inrtintc5 mixed, or rathor com-
bined, with oil of turpentine, and fonns witli it a blackish lini-
ment, which, when mixed with hog's lard, is sotnetimee used to
di*pcrsc cnDotis tumours; and this, by adding some powdered
eai)tharidt4 to it, forms a atrong blister (aee Blisters) ; and, b;
tlie a<)dition of »tiljihur, a good mange ointment. Sulphune
acid {in a Jtma)) proportion, such as a few drops lo an ounw)
will ltllil(^ I)}' >liaking, with olive oil, and form a good Btimulatiag
liniment * ; and wlien mixed with tar in the proportion of from
one or two ounces to the ]io(ind, it fortna an excellent applicatioa
for bad thruilm and canker of the foot. For internal use
sulphuric acid is sometinu^ mixed witli spirit of wine, and in thii
mixture s[Hoe9, such us ciimamon and giuger, ar« Mef[>ed. Tlib
pri'piirutioii waa formerly named elixir of vitriol, and ttfv an>-
tnatic «u)|>huric acid. A spirit of vitriol h kept in the nbo^K.
which ia nothing more than sulphuric add diluted witli >c<reD or
eight times its weight of water. Sulphuric acid mixed mth
^eohd, and distilled, forms lliat poweHid medicinal preparation
named ether. It fornt* neutral talts, named tulphatrM, witca
combined wiili the alkalies eurlhs, and metallic oxides; tbiu.
with sndn, it forni.s sulphate of loda, or Giauber't salt; with
magnesia, sulphate of magnesia, or Ep«om salt; with copper,
sulphate of copper, or blue vitriol ; with zinc, sulphate of line,
or white vitriol ; and with iron, »ulphnie of iron, salt of »tcrl, w
, ffreen cop[)cnis. WIk-u pure, sulphuric acid shoidd he as coIoot-
' lose and trunspiir^-nt as water. By exposure to the atmosj^cne
it quickly becomes of a brown colour. Horses have been di^
tiroycd by the administration of too lai^a quantity of sulphuric
acid, cither wilfully or by mistake. It eoon inflamea and cor>
rodcs the stomach, and renders the mouth black, llie antidolcf
are magnesia, the carbonates of soda or potash, or aonp, thc
elTect of which is to neutra]if« the acid by combining with \\.
Acid, 'rAUTARit. See Tahtar.
Acii>, ViTniouc. See Acid, Sulphuric.
ACONITUM. Wolfsbane. Common Monkshood. This
i* a perennial plant, which flowers in July, and is a native of iht
Alpine forests and of the mountains of (iennany. Its propertiia
are narcotic, diaphoretic, and diuretic, but it foses most of iS
mcdieinHl {{uulitics by being dried. It has l>een fairly triediH
honu-^ in ihi$ country and iu France, and fouud to be extreml^
deleterious. M. CoUaine, a x-e(eriiiary professor at Milan, liM
given it lo horses affected with farcy, in the large dose of one
ounce and a half daily. It distre«»ed tlie animals extremeW,
* The ix>ninioii liWk oil oriorricrr, n iincrul itigottivc sjiplkHtion, ii tatAe
■ bj mixinic two ounces of oil ol' lurpcntinv with n pint of olivo oil. and thn>
t lodiag six dnchmi of sulphuric ucid.
AKO FUARMAOOtNKIA.
without producinff anjr good effect upon farcy sores. Buing
aatiafied of ils inenicacv ii§ a remedj' for die disease, as well as of
its deleterious quality', it was diticoiilintied, nixl tlie poor animals
vere killed. Mr. Coleman gave it a trial, and was so sati»lted,
after a few experiments, of its lieing merely ii poison with regard
to the hortte, lliat he has never repeaU-d the expmmcnt.
ACOKL'S CALAMUS. Sweet Flag. This is found in
most parts of Europe, growing in nmrsliea or sirmins of water.
It Hower^ in May and June, and is an exi-diunt stomachic. Its
doie in powder i» from one to iwo ounces, misetl with hrun or
honey; in Infunion from four to six ounces may be given with
two quant of wau-r.
ADKI'S. Hog's Lurd. Lard it emollient, and is chiefly
used in the compo»iiionof ointtnents. If longex{>oscd loa warm
air it atlracls oxygen from the atniMphcre, for which it has a
strong ufEnity, and become* rancid.
AlK. As the iH-alth of horses materially depends upon the
salubrity of the air in which they are kLi)t, it U probable that
many of their diseases arises from the little attention tliai is pnid
to the ventilation of stables. It has been said that even tlio
fflandert, a fatal and contagious disease, haa been generated by
confining horses in an impure air. It is a common practice with
grooms, particularly those who fancy themselves profoundly
skilled in tlie art of farriery, to atop every crevice tliev can find
in tl»e stable, so that pure air is with dilBciiUy admiited; and tlie
noxious vapours arising from tlte litter, from perspirstlon and
respiration, are in a great measure confined. Horses thus
situated must necessarily suffer in a greater or less degree; and
though the air may not lie so contaminated as to occasion fatal
disease*, it is tufficienlly so to debilitate tlie constitution, and
l(»ereby lay a foundniion for numerous complaints, as well as to
create local diseases, such as indamed eyes, obstinate coughs,
and pcrliaps moon hluuinets, as it ia termed. Morses that liave
weak eye« atid lungi are sure to be injured by this treatment.
Anotlicr inconvenience arising from it is that of rendering a horse
very KUtceptibli- of cold. I'mlitalion is, tlierelbre, an object of
great imjwrtancc in the construction of stables ; and is most con-
veniently obtained by making proper apertures in the ceiling, com-
municatingwidi the external air; or by means of windows, adapted
to tlie form und »izuof thektable. It is a bad mediod of ventila-
tion to leave the iip))er part* of the racks open, so as to commu-
nicate with the roof of tW building, ns acurrentof air istlum-by
Eroduccd in a ^lall, over the hooe'n head. The litter should not
L- sulTcri'd to remain in the stall during the day, but be removed
to »ome open placo and well Kliaken, that the ammoniacal
rapours it affords may Ix- llioroughly dissi|>ated. Should it be
I) D 4
necessary Tor a hon*e to lie down in the dAy-tim?, h« should tx-
Hltowed fmh straw.
ALCOHOL. — SpirifM* Rtftifieatnt. Alcoliol. Rectiliw
spirit, 'litis is obuim'<l liy ili« distilUiion of fermenled liquon
in a diluted sUiv; it \* iilWrwarclt reclifiMl or nmcentrat^d bys
second or third dtKiillation inone gradaally conducted, and wi[h
l«3s (test. Alcoltul in extensively employed in mediciiu*. cliit^j
in making tinclur<cR; with an equal quantity or water it fbrw
proof spirit {tpiritta tmuior), the most UKual form in wlnch
It is cmployeti. Tlie strength of alcoliol is sonietiniet judeeil
of by sltakiiig the spirit, nnd observing iho length of ttaic
llic bubble* thu» created on lU surface remain; but this is s
most uncertain criterion. Another nietlMxl is lo pour a fe*
dfope of it ujion gunpowder, in order to ascertain whether it s
capable of making it expto<)e; but, if it tw not strong enou^
to do w, this ex]K'rintent nffonlit no certain d:iiu fur jud|{in^
of it» (trenglh. A simple mode of deterinining ilio relaU»c de-
grees of strength pos»esM-d by s|>iriti, is to lake a phial capable of
contuinitig iiOD grains of distilled water. Iti-clincd spirit of
equal hulk should weigh 418 grains, and proof spirit 465. l^roof
spirit, eitliiT in the form of brandy, rum, or gin, or made into a
eordiiil tincture, by having some t-picr« or bitters siecited in it,
w sumetimi-s given to horses us a cordial or curniiimlive, whra
faligue<l bcfoi'e tln-y arrive at the end of tlicir journey, or "lien
seized with the fret or gripes. From 2 to 4 or fl oz. dilated
with water are the doses generally employed. If a liorte ii
unaccustomed to ihia cordial, or to beer, a small doee will
generally be sufficient. When we consider that the excitement
produced by cordials, e4i>ecially diluted spirit or beer, is only
temporary, that it caiiwa a greater flow of nervous i>ower or
animal sjiiril towards tlie stomach in particular, .and likewiBe to
all the musctilar system, it must ap{)ear evident lltat it has a
tendency lo weaken tite sensorium or brain, as is proved by ilw
excitement ii produces being alw«^-s followed by more or leK
depression in tfie stomach, and all the organs of Uie body, ac-
cording to the degree of excitement thai has been produced
From this consideration it is obvious that wc should bo cautious
in the use of spiriiuoitscordialsi, ami not give stronger doses ihna
are necessary. It is not an unusual thing to give two botlloi
(almut a pint) of Daily's Klixir, a tincture made with proof
spirit, at a dose; sometimes unrlilute<i, and even mixed witb
pepper. Haifa pint of gin, and two ounce* of pejiper, is not an
unusual doBc with siahU'-nieii lor grijx-s or fret; and as it often
cures the disease lliey think nothing of the cnnsequencrs.
Mr. Uracy Clark recommemU four ouiicea of a lincdire of all-
spice, made with pi-oof s^)irit, as an excellent remedy for d»e
AND rHAnMACOPOtlA. 409
gripM or fret; aiid such I have no doubt it is, tvpeciatljr if made
witli old brandj'- I hiivc bei-ii as.tiirc<l by a veterinary surgeon.
that he once cureii a horse ofgriiK-s by a doscof hot water; and
it is by no means in)lilci.'ly thiit a warm infusion of some of our
mcilicinal herbs, siicli as pepiK-rniiiit, pcnnyioyal, rosemary, &c.,
would be found ofTeetiial, especiiilly if a pWs of gin were added
lo it. 1 have fxperifficed the good effect of giving a horse a
little brandy and water n hen fatigued, and off his feed during a
journn; it generally restores the appetite, and enables him to
finish his journ^* with eomfbrt.
ALE. See Beer.
ALKALIES. Aikaiies form one of the classes of saline
bodies, and arc of three kinds: Ist, Tlie vtifelahle alkali, kali,
or potash. 3d, The miiienil alkali, soda or natron: and llie
votatile alkali, or ammonia. £Iach of the^ will be deacnt>ed
under the following heads, jwtastt, »oda, and ammonia ; wliich
names arc employed by the Lon<lon College of Physicians.
AfMaiies are dblingnished by their changing blue vegetable
colours to a green, and yellow lo orange; by combining rapidly
with acids, and forminjr with ihem neutral snlu (see Anns);
and by rendering oils miscible with water. {See Emuijiions and
Soap.) The vet/rtaUe and mineral alkalie*, from not being
evapomble, except in a high degree of bent, were teriiK-d^r>i/.-
and aminimiii, being evapiirable in a low temperature, obtained
tin? iiitrnt- of KoUtlile alhali.
ALKANKI' ROO'I'. — AntMutn Radix. The best specie*
of this root i» imported from 1-Vance. It is used fur impartuiga
brauiifid red colour to oil*, oiniments, and idasters, and to pre-
panilioiif of alcohol and etlier.
ALLSl'ICK — Pimrnla iiacrte. Jamaica pepper; a power-
ful cordial and carminative; the dose from 'J to 'A or 4 drachms.
Mr. Brocy Clark, in a book he haj> publlshi-d on llatnleni or
spasmodic colic, or gri]>e8| strongly recommends a tincture of
allspice in proof spirit, as an effectual or sovereign n.-medy for
thai disorder. The dose about 4 to 6 oz. in water.
ALOES. — ^/o*"'. This is t!ic inspissated juice of cerlain
plants of the same name, and the most effectual purgative fur
horses we arc acquainted with. It isof an intensely bitter taste,
and of a strong unpleasant odour.
The different sorts of aloes are dislinguish(.*<l by the iiame^ of
tlie places whence they are brought.
SocoTKiKE Aloks* is brought from the island of Sucotro, in
the Indian Ocean, and is supposed to be more safe in iu oper-
ation than tl>e other kind«. It is of a dark reddish or ycHowish-
* The Sorotrinc aIocs, Mr. Morton slalta, is no longer Co Im met with in
the mnrkct. It wn« an cainict Trom the tunc nloiu as llio Oapc, vi>. the iipikcil
■loc— Ei>.
410
MATERIA UEDICA
I
red colour, quite ojiaqoe, perfectly flolublc in alcohol or v«tei^
and liiu> n l«^ di»greeable smell than tlie others ; when reduced
to powder it in of a bright yellow colour; it sells at a higli price,
and is lltcrrfore not unfrequently adulterated. I have b^rt w
often dtMppoinK'd in titc efTeci of Hoeotriiu aloes', or rnibcr
wtiat is commonly lold under that name, that I now always xut
tin- Iiart»ttioti\, which cannot so easily be adulterated withooi
detection.
Barbadors on Hkpatic Aloes is brought from llarbodoeii
and lias bt-cn ^riuTally considered as u rough medicine, vm
lidlh to produce griping, and oilier unplntsani elfects ; but I
have tlwnyii fwind it a ufc and efficacious purgative. Barbadet*
aiotM is of a darker colour than llie former Kt»^ not »o clear and
bright, loss brittle, and of a ntronger and nrare diufrrrcablc
smelLt It i« cvruinly more uciive than ili& Sncftlriiu ; and, »
br as nty ex|>eriencc goes, more ceruun in iu operation : nor
have I ever found it produce (hose dangerous elTccts that have
been attributed to it, wlni) given in a proper dose, and wlien
the horw in not nq;lect(Kl during iu operation and t« propt^y
prepared <br it (tec Cathartics): indeed, every kind of alonii
iable to produce e%cn fatal conwKpience if given too largely, Of
if the home be treated improjwrly vfliile under their cffrct.
Th<.Te is a peculiarity in llie horse's intestines which rendcn
ihrni more liable to bo injured by purgatives of every kindi
than those uf any other domestic animal: cathartic medicinn
should therefore be always prepared by persons of judgment and
experience.
Cape Aloes is rather transparent^ and very brittle: it ii
easily powdered, in which siate it is of a bright yellow colour
with a greenish tint ; the odour arising from it ia not so strong
as the liiirlmdoett hut rather stronger and le«8 agreeable than
the So«itri)tt. This kind is sold at a much lower price than thf
others, but is weaker and more uncertain in its ellecl. 'flic
dose of iiarbadoe* is from four drachms to six; and of lite Capt,
from six to nine drachma.
Alort generally operaie more speedily when joined with toaf
or cither of the,/£rai alkalies.^ In the old books on farrier;',
* In December I5DA, Sorotrins «he* wm u about the mii« ptke or cbo^
than BaHiadoet.
+ 111 1823, Btaiadar* alan was ray *aa<x, nnd solil Rt frOBI 10 lo \i
shillinuD per pound ; Bartadoet alaei in now pre«cril>eil by nnuiy phy*idwiu,
and oiun ii«cil by Hjtoiheesries.
X Thtro ia an hil*rior kind cslled coballiao ur borae ■Iocs, tanwaod to Ik
tha rdiise after the Barbailoc* extnKC 1im been obtsiaed. — Bd.
§ Mr. Morton eoiisidvr* thnt ilie ^urgniivc quality of aluc* b iMscnrJ hy
tlie addition of ibc aOcalio*. ihougli it a tbcrcby rendered mon cotiriile, wiJ
tAardore i}iiickcr in it* tdkets. — fip.
Wth
CTcaiD of tartar is getierally preecrib«i witli aloes, under a sup*
position thai it presents griping; but I consider it [ty no means
proper, and have far some lime preferred toap and the alkalies
sucn as potash and soda; but soap ii li^ far tlie most convenient.
(See Cathartics.)
Atoet b sometimes given u an alterative in tlic doie of one or
two drachms. It is also an ingredient in Friar't haltam and com-
pnmd tiiicliire ofmyrr/i.
ALTERA'! IVKS are medicines lliat act very fjruihiiillj' upon
le constitution, and tlierefore require to be coiitiniied tor some
time. The medicines most commonly used as alteratives for the
horse are antimony, nitre, sulphur, resin, and >E(hiop'» mim-nJ ;
these aregenerally given together, particularly the three former.
The cases in wliicli iilieratives are commonly employed, arc
diseases of tlio skin, such as mange and other itcliitig humoiirx,
hide^bound and dry, sinring coat. They are given aluo in
swellings, or humours of ttie Itind legs, and worms. They ap-
pear to do good, by increasing the discharge of excrement iitous
matter from the body, ihrougn the various emunctories or outlets,
auch a* the boweln, the kidneys, and the skin. From viewing
the subjecl in this light, 1 have been induced to arrange them
under three heads; viz. laxative alteratives, diuretic alteratives,
and diaphoretic allcraiives. Were we to coniiueoiu^etves strictly
U> the common acceptation of the term alteratives, we should
describe them as medicines, which cure diseases by a gentle,
slow, and insensible operation upon die body ; and under tliis
impression, it would apjiear unnecessary to watch the effect
which such preparations produced upon tlie body. This would
be a departure from tlie precept which 1 have before offered;
viz. ** tliere b only one source from which any precise or really
useful knowledge of the interesting subject of Veterinary Medi-
cine can be derived; thai h, a airrfal atul ivtpartial observatloBf
imd an acrarale rtmlUrtiim of tfie sifmptonu of diseasfx, aatl (ke
effects of ntfh mfiiicines. xchrtlier simple or cotnjtowul, <u are em-
fiegedfrr their remocaL" Hy attending to this rule, 1 have ob-
•et^red that tlu* mediein<-« given as alteratives have generally
some visible t-fCvci upon the bowels, the kidneys, or the skin; the
dirtsion of them, therefiire, into laxatives, diuretics, and diupho-
reticH will be found ui>eful in practice.
Laxative Ai-tf-Rativks are useful in many caai:-^ and may
iflcn be KUbKtilutetl (»v piirffatiort willi grc«l advantage.
WIk'ii a horse is troubled with worms, and is too weak to take
■ng medicines, or when he cannot be spared from his work,
they are extremely convenient, atid generally beneficial. In
obstinate cases of yrcaw, and in chronic iiiflnmnintion of the eyes,
llicy often do good; thej' are generally serviceable also in couglis
^iroi
of \ona standing, or ewn when thry arc rccvnt, if not cautnl 1^
BtranglM, in which disonso t)>e throttt is oflrii no tiiiich inflamed,
and so verv sore, as to render the exhibition of inedielne by iW
mouth improper. Clystertj IioweTcr* are often beneficial in
(hoi« cases.
In slinrt, tliere are few meilicinei of more general nlilitv in
the diseases of horses than the laxative alterative*, tbe most cflce-
tual of which is aloet, in the doee of two or three drachms, with
an Mjual quantity of Castile ut&p.
DitiRcnc Alt£hativ£s are composed oCnitre, mi»faoap,mi\
turpentine. 'Iliey are employed in swellingsof the \egi and oilier
parts, or as a preventive, in horses titat are subject to such swell-
ings; and iheyareeirenaUo to improve tbecoal and general con-
dition of the animu.
Though not so efleciual in some cases as tbe preceding, tliry
are certainly very convenient and innoceni, anil produce so little
disturbance in iho body, thai a horse may continue his work
while taking them, witliout l!»e least danger, even in the winiir
season. Nor is there any trouble in giving them ; as a bor§c
readily eats tliem, when in tlie form of a powder, with bis com.
Ttw laxative aUerative lias not tliis advant^e, the aJoeSr of which
it is composed, being extremely bitter, and therefore requiring
to be given In the form of a ball.
DiAfitoitETic Alteratives are composed of medicittes tlial
act on the skin, gradually increasing the insensible perspiratioRi
and giving n smoathnH» and glou to tlie coal. The most effe^
liud medicineH of this clasi are \\k prei»rations of antimony (sr
An'timoxv); hut theae may btt rendere<l more efGcacwus by
iH-ing joined wiili Other medicinn, «uch as cordials, cam[^ior,
opium, &c.
The complaint* in which this kind oi alteraiivt i« m6Kt useful,
are those termed turfeit and htde-lound; they are dxo employed
t» remove an undue detennimiiion of blood toaiiy internal organ,
or to diminish genemi plcthnni.
Dinpkiirrtii^ alu-raliefn wlilom prove effectual, titi1c«s assisted
by exercise atid good grooming.
The altcrativt« n-conunemled by writers on farriery were not
eom]>osed according to the distinction we have here made; but
laxatives, diureticK, Sec. were mtx<>d with little discn'niiuaiion;
thus, ax we have before ob«ei'ved, unlimony, nitre, sulphur, and
resin, formed tlu-ir genernl altcrntives ; and when it wjis recjuin-d
to remove diM^usei, fuppusi-d to arise from obstruction in the
blood-vessels, some ponderous mcdiciiH-s were prescribed: among
tliese were cintiahnr, aiul /Ethiop's mineral.
AND PHARHACOPCEIA. 418
LAXATIVE ALTERATIVES.
'So. I. Barbadoee eJoes 8 to 12 dr.
Castile soap 1^ oz.
Caraways, or aniseed, powdered.... 1^ oz. or 2 oz.
Ginger ^ oz.
Syrup or treacle enough to form a mass, to be divided into four
balls, one of which is to be given daily until the bowels are
opened.
No. 2. Barbadoes aloes 8 to 10 dr.
Calomel 2 to 4 dr.
Caraway seed, powdered I^ oz.
Ginger 4 dr.
Oil of cloves 40 drops.
Mix as above for four doses, and give one daily imtil the bowels
are opened. While taking these balls the horse must have
mashes, and the chill taken ofT his water j he should not be
exposed to the cold, but have moderate exercise.
No. 3. Sublimed sulphur. 6 oz.
Tartarized antimony 6 dr. to 1 oz.
Calomel 3 dr.
Mix and divide into six doses, one of which is to be given daily.
DIURETIC ALTERATIVES.
No. 1. Yellow resin, and nitrate of potash,
of each 4 oz.
Mix and divide into six or eight parts, one of which is to be
given daily in the horse's corn, until a diuretic effect is
produced.
No. 2. Yellow resin 4 oz.
Spanish soap 3 oz.
Venice turpentine 2 oz.
Powdered caraways enough to form the mass. To be divided
into balls of a moderate size, one to be given daily until a
diuretic effect is produced.
No.3. Powdered nitre 4 oz.
Resin and flour, of each 2 oz.
Treacle enough to form the mass. To be divided into balls of a
moderate size, and given as above.
414
DIArnoRRTIC ALTKUTITES.
No. I. I^Tvtgaied sulptium of antimony. .. 2 dr. to 1 os.
Camwmy senls J oz.
Mix for ooe dt»t.
No. 2. Tartariu>d antimony 1 to 2 dr.
Camphor I to 2 dr.
Ljquorke powder 3 dr.
Syrup enough to iorrn the ball.
The following will be found an useful alteralire in dboucsaf
tlie skin : —
Sulphur 4 dr.
Nitnt 3 dr.
Antimony •••••••.■.•...•«••.••■•....... 3 dr>
To be given daily with thu food.
Diaphoretic medicin« are very uncertain in their eflVci upon
the horse, and unless great care be taken of the ariiinni witli
respect to grooming, exercise, diet, and clothing, litde Umi-fit it
to be expected from them. Opium has been prescrilied, with
camphor, tanarized antimony, ammonia, and otiier stimnlAnu,
for the purpost of relaxing the skin and producing [lertpiration;
but there k ofien danger in giving such medicines, especially
when tliere is any degree of fever pi'esent: (he mediciiici \m-
■cribvd in the alMve receipts are innocent if tln-y fail in alliKttiig
the skin, ns in such cases ihey are genernlly determined to tbe
kidneys,a»dcaii»eanincreaKddi»cttargeofurine, especially if the
horse be not warmlv clothed. (See niAPiioRETU's, Vr.iiKirvtiCt,
St:ooBiric5,&c.) ^Uiiy otlwrmediciiK-shiivi-Iwn proscribcdai
alteratives, by vecerinary writers, among which arc .V^tbiop's idh
nenil, ciniialnr, guAUicum, kemies mineral, creiiin of tartar, i1m
neutral salts, &c. 'i'o tltese may l>e added one which has often
been found more eRicacioui than all the rest, that is, soiling in
the stable on vetehrt, or tares, lueoni, &c., or a run at grass.
ALTHiiOA. Sec Marnh Mallow*.
ALUM. — Aittme». A saline bodj', com[)osod of aiilphitrie
aeid and aUimiiu, or [iiire clay, and potath. It is used internally
as an axtrlngtnt in diarrhaa, diabctct, rrd-waler, &c. in doses Iron
two drachm* to luilf an ounce in the hone, and one ounce in
cattle, or more, and \% generally joined with bitttrt and aromatif
tiimulaittif»ixc\imfffntian, cassia, anitml, raraxcatf tf^, &c. It tiU
been einployetl ii)iloi»of one andlwo ounces to dry {!»■ milk after
calving in cow*. I'oi- external purposes alum is very useful: it
it a good remedy for the ffrmsf, when dissolved and' applied lo
^diseased puns; it is also used in tlie form of an ointment: —
AND PHARMACOPOEIA. 415
Powdered alum 4 ok.*
Ttii-|H-iititie 4 ox.
Hu}^» liinl, or |iulm oil » 12 oz.
The lard and tuq>ei)tiiie U) lie nielled logvtlicr, and when
uearly cold die alum to be stim-d in.
Alum dt»solv«Hl in water loused in nphllxcand odier diseases of
ihe mouth ; and tioinetinies, much diluted, i« ap]>lied to the eyes
in oi>lithahuiji. In a state dI' powder it htu been applied with
advantage lo opt-ri joints, either alone or mixed with sulphate of
iron and myrrh. The burnt alum i» Iten for this purpose, and
should 1)0 ai)i)lied frequently.
Burnt Alum is made hy putting any quantity of alum tn an
iron ladle, or common firepiin, and keeping it over a gentle fire,
until its watery parts are evaporated, and it is converted into a
light and easily [>idverisable substance. If exposed to a strong
heat for tome time, the alum is dccomposco, and of course
ugelec*.
AMALGAM. The combination of mercury with any metal
K termed an amalgam.
AMBKIt. — Suixrinum. This is what naturalists term bilu-
tneit. It affords only one preiwralion timt is used in veterinary
practice, — an essential oil, of a dark colour, and very dUa^rree-
able odour, — which is employed a.i an embrocation in .ttrainx,
bruises, Sic, generally mixed with other oils, such ta oil of elder,
turpentiite, ^c* It is f^ven internally aa an antispasmodic, hi
doiesfromtwodracluns to half an ounce or more. For medicinal
fiurposea this esiientiul oil is rectified, whereby it becomes of a
igliter colour, and loses in some degree its unpleasant smell ;
but it doea not appear to be rendered more efficacious. 'I'here
ia a talt ofnvjiitr kept in the shops, procured from aiiihtr by sub*
Itmation, hut it M never used in veterinary practice.
AMMONIA. Thi* is the modern term for what is named
vohitiU ttlknli, and h procured either from bones or aat ammo-
niac. It It kq>t in the shops boUi in a xolid and a liquid form.
Strictly «iK-aking, /'itrr ammattla exists only in the form ofyiu or
air: but water will absorb a considerable quantity of tin* nir;
and when saturated with it becomes a violent stimulant, capable
of inflaming, and even blistering the Kkiii. This \n termed liqaor
or tottirr of, or svlution of jmre ammiittia., or stroiuf spirit of sal-
ammoniac, and is useful in dispersine indolent tuinour», if mixed
with an equal quantity of sweet oil, and oil of turjK'Utine, in
which camphor lia:< been dissolved. Lii/mtr of' pure ammimia i*
loo strong for internal use; but when ammonia is, by a cliemical
proce*s, combined with mrbonic acid, or fixed air, it axiumes a
solid form, and is rendered sufficiently mild for that purpose. In
Thit drug i* not u«cd in veterinary medicine at the prcaeiil di}'. — El>.
416
(hi* ^tate it is nAfoed earianafe ofammoma, or jireparrd oiRnugua,
volattU tal-ammuRiac, or amellttiff talis, being mucli used for
■tnellinK-botiles, as ila quick puncent odour ia well calculated to
remove f«ninos}. Ammonia a invariably produced during the
naiur.tl or ariificta] decomposition of organised liodies.
Cakbosate of Ammosi \. — Ammortia Car/tniiat, now oilkd
Sesqui-carboiiate of Ammonia. Tbis is siimulani, luiueid, iiul
conlial. and is given in doae9iTx>m lialTa drachm lo two dradiou.
When carbonate of ammonia is dissolved in walerloMlumiion,
it forms teater or lointioa of mild ammtmia, or common ^irU «f
tal-timmo»iae ; when distilled with spirit and some aromatic oiu^
ji/ir>iV I'J'ml folaliU, or com/wtinil tpirit of ammonia : and if ium-
Jatida be added, the Jietitl xj/irii vf ammonia is prodiic^-d, «hicfa
is tometiinc* given ai an antti[>asmodic* See A.s».tr(i;rinA.
The Salt and Spirit of Hari-shork are nearly tin.- samcu
the mrboaatf, and the tolutton or tcaUr ofammmiia ; but bring
dnlillvd from bouM, or ttag'lwms, which areof tliv same nnluir,
they nir slightly impregnntcnl with animal oil, which (jtves then
a |x'cuHiir «mcll, and i« siipp^m-d lo increase iWir antispasmodic
power. .S<f ASTISI'A»MOI>KS.
AMMONIACUM; Ammoniac Tliis is divided into ton
aorta. 11ic first is of a yellowish colour, inicnpcnicd with small
|HMM of wood, and othi*r extnutcous mailer: llicothcr, in smkU
pieCM 01' drops, of a whiter colour than the former, and mneh
more puro; this is commonly ca1if<l Hmp ammoniacum. "^(HH
former, however, may bt employed for veterinary purpoflP
making a little allowance in the dose for lt>e extraneous matter
it coniaiiu; but this may be in a great measure separated bf
Itoundinfi; and siAing.
Gum Ammoniac is an expecioranl (see Expectoiiantb), in
dowa from two or three lo four dr.ichms. It is udvaniageoutly
joined with powdered squills, and in some cases with camphor,
opium, and mlsim of sulphur.
Horses that arc of a liiU habit should be bled, and lake a
cathartic ball previously to the exhibition of exiKvlonuits, which
rentiers them more cfBcaciouH. It may be pro[MT to obaem
that ammimiacHm ts never to be employed in recent coughm
arising from eatanh, or cold, but only in liie chrvnie kind, that
are not dependent on inflammation.
AKGEI.ICA. — AMfiica. This root i« largHy cultivated l^ir
medicinal purposes, lis properti«'s aTx^ tonic and carminative
Although a very elegant aromatic, it n-tguires to be conjoiiwd
with some other stimulants when admiuixtered to the horse. IV
dose is from linlf nn ounce to sn ounce and n lialf.
AN1SE-8EED. — Anisi Semina. This seed is iniicli used tu
liorsc medicine, as a stimulant, carminative and cordial ; but in
power is by no means considerable. It is thought to possess also
AKD PHARHACOPfEIA. 417
an expectorant quality, and is therefore given in coughs and
other complaints of the lungs, but is generally joined with other
expectorants. It b certainly, thougn weak, a very grateful sti-
mulant, and does much good where the stomach is weah, and
disposed to flatulency; it is therefore an useful ingredient in
eonlial medicines. The dose is about one ounce or rather more.
(See Cordials and Carminatives.) The virtues of anise^eed
are contained in its essential oil, the dose of which is about half a
drachm or more: it may be rubbed in a mortar with sugar, mu-
cilage, and ginger, and given in warm ale or water.
In the human being anise-seeds are supposed to increase the
secretion of milk ; but I am not aware that they possess this
power over animals.
ANODYNES. Medicines that alleviate or remove pain, the
most effectual of which is opium. The other narcotics nave also
been occasionally employed for this purpose, among which are
henbane, deadly nightshade, hemloclE, white poppy-heads, &c.
When pain depends upon spasm, as in the flatulent or spasmodic
colic, commonly named gripes or fret, it is an excellent remedy.
(See article Colic.) In that dangerous complaint, named locked-
iaw, opium is the medicine that is principally relied on, though
It is generally given with others, such as camphor, &c. See
Amtispashodicb, Opium, Henbane, &c.
anodyne ball.
No. 1. Opium I dr. to 1 dr.
Castile soap 3 dr. to 4 dr.
Powdered ginger 1 dr. to 2 dr.
Powdered anise-seed | oz. to 1 oz.
Oil of caraways ^ dr.
Syrup enough to form the ball.
ANODYNE DHAUOHT, OR ORENCH.
Ko.S. Tincture of opium from g oz. to I oz.
Spirit of nitrous ether 1 oz. to 2 oz.
Essence of peppermint 1 to 2 dr.
Water 1 pint.
ANODYNE CARMINATIVE TINCTURE.
No. 3. Best Turkey opium 1 oz.
Cloves, bruised. 2 oz.
Jamaica ginger, bruised 3 oz.
Old Cognac brandy 1 quart.
Keep them together in a well-corked bottle three or four weeks,
frequently shaking it. The dose, two or three ounces in
-.. vater.
£ E
418
UATCHtA MEDICA
The Ijall inny be mixed with warm ale If the form of » dmidt
bo pn-frm-d to thni of * ball, and ^itiier of the rcccipU y^^\ he
found a f;oo<l n-nwdjr fw (he flatulent or tpawnodic colic [n
titc BtKxtyiK- dniiiglit wiirin beer may be ubctjuited for watrr.
It «liould be reoolleclMl thai when the colic u attended wiihco»-
tivenem, clyHien and oily uid saline Uxativui are ttoc«ssar^-,«it))cr
in addition to tlir a»odyt>e, or alWr the oiiodyne is cxhilHtrd.
Etaciicu of pc^iiM-rmiiu coiiMJtts of the mentiid oil of pcppenniol
dissolved in spirit of wim-: one piirt of the tormer to three of
ibe latlrr. (8rv ICksbkck oikI Min't.) Anodynes are sodc-
times exliilHtcd in tlw form of cljitcr, as in lockcd-jaw, v]kd do
modicino can be given by llic moutli, which often happens m
bad cases ; it is tl>en lU'cossurv to employ about a double dose^or
rather more. (SevLocKro Jaw; see also CLYgTEiis.) Anodyne
fomcntatiuDS art- prcTtcHbetl occasionally, wliicli ctmsbt chiefly
of a decoction of white poppy-bends. See Fomentatioxs,
ANTHELMINTICS urc medicines ibat destroy worms, or
expel t)H*m from tlic intestines. The mercurial purgatives are
generally considered llie most eflecinal anthelminticB.
A variety of vegetables hare been thought to possess this
i|uality. but I beliere without foundation : amon^ these are bosi
nu', savin, anil wormwood. /Ethiop's mineral, antimony, nt-
Phtir, and tin, have also been considered as a/ttftelmiafict. I
clievc tin tiaa not been fairly tried : and as it is an efScacioiu
anlhelminlic in dogs, it may probably be found useAil in horses.
Of all the mercurial preparations, ealamel is by far the best br
this purpose, and may be given with aloes, soap, and some
aromatic oil, with a little ginger. Many prefer giving llie
calomel at night, and the purgative tlie foIlo>fiug morning.
Aloes is a gooa anthetminiie. A saline sub»Ianoe was some time
ago introduced from India, as a remedy for titat stM^iesofwona
termed liotfs. It seeina to be composed of common salt am)
liver of sulphur, but does not appear to deserve the high cha-
racier that was given of it; though, like salt or brine, it amy
sometimes have Ix-en found nn effectual anthelmintic.
Ii has been supp(»ed, ihst worms are lometimes generated in
consequence of ciebitity in the digestive orj^ns. Tonics hare
tlu'n-fore been recommended, particularly the vegetable billersi
such as bark, wormwood, camon)iIe, Sic Wbeo wonits are di^
covered in the lioi'se's dung, after a fair trial haii Ix-en given lo
mercurial purgatives (especially if he api>i.<sn lo l>e weak, and
incapable of much work), it would be advisable to give tonic and
cordial preparations, with a generous diet ; but whenever this is
done, there must be proportionate exercise. One plan of trealiu
a horse with worms in to keep him lasting for several hours, SM
tlien give him n Kinall i|ii»ntily of milk and sugar, which is to bo
followed by a dote of the niitbelmintic in a liquid form : a sola-
pht
bcl:
\
AK]> PIlAKSIACOfceiA. 419
lion or common salt has been recommended for this purpose, to
which may be ailcled two or ilirec drachms of aloes. The dose of
salt is about four ounces, in three pints of water. Oil of tiir*
Dentine has of late been recommended as an anthelmintic, and
lias, I believe, been found more efficacious than anv other medi-
cine. The mode of pivinj^ It is to keep the horse witliout food
for several houra, and tlicn to give four ounces mixed with a pint
or more of oatmeal gruel ; the day before the horse is to take
about ihi-ee drachms of aloes, with an equal quauiity of soap, in
order to open the bowels moderately, and so that they may be
io a loose state at the time the turpentine is given. .Some
caution is necessary in adopting this method, as in two ca^es that
Ijave come lo my knowledge, the stomach appeared to have been
dangerously affected, and in one it produced a degree of inflam-
mation that proved tatal. In one of the cases the turpentine was
given undiluted when the stomach was empty. In the second,
the horse was kept fasting a long time, I believe twelve hours j
in the third, which proved fatal, the purgative given the day
before appeared to have been too strong. I would advise, there-
fore, when oil of turpentine is given as an aiithehninlic, that ihe
hors« he prepared with bran mashes, as for physic; that only
three drachms of aloes, witli an equal quantity of Castile fionp,
be given the day before ilie tiirpentiiif, und that when the liitter
i» given, the stomach should not he in su i-xlmuxtet) a xttttt: by
fasting as it appears to have been in one, if not nil of the above
case*. Perhaps a smalt bi-an mash may be given, about six or
scveniti the morning, and tlie luqientine abouteleven or twelve. *
A run at grass, in May or June, has bern fotmd a good remedy
Sor worms; soiling in the stable with vetches, or tares, lucem,
Sic may also be irietL I have lately di«covere<l a cause of worms
which is not generally, if at all, known. Since 1 have resided
near the Hill uf Mendip, I have frequently met with u kind of
worm in the bowels of horses, dogs, and cuts, which I never
before saw, nor can I find a description of it in any book. It is
found generally in the small intestines near their termination,
and M>metlmes In ttie hirge bowels also. Thoy adiH-re pn-tty
firmly by one of their extremities lo itie mucous memlirane of
the DOweb, and when cnntmcted appear like n flake of whiti.ih
mucus, but when extended they are quite flat, like a very narrow
riband, and are covered with iraiisrerse lines like lh« leech
worm. Tltey are from one lo three or four inches in lenglb.
I think I liuvtt found tticm of greater length in llie bowels »f
do« than in other animals. The extremity by which tlicy
adhere has a bulbous appcarancH*, with a mmith and other mlinite
aperture*. The other cxtrviiiity is square, as if cut off Iraiis-
* Tbe talett plan to U(liniiiii,(«T oil of turpentine U with un erpial or double
qttanuty uriiii»e«l oil. wtiicti io itseiru an mcllcnt uiKbelmiaiii-. — Eo.
E E 2
4S0
HjiTERU MEDICA
vcrsfly. I hare knovm ilicsc worms discliargM] from the bow^
of a man, wflio brought oiic of tliem lo me; he called lliera the
blood worm, and said h« had often voided ihem, efluecially after
drinking ntilicr fr.-c-ly of beer. These worms have Deen seen in
a Hiuall ttrcuni which runs through a village near MeiKlip.
AKTUELHISTtCS.
No. I. Aloed 4 lo 6 dr.
Ca»lite soap „.. 3 dr.
Oil of clove* 10 drops.
Calomel M I to 3 dr.
Ginger I to S dr.
Syrufi enough to form the b«ll for one dose.
No. 2. Aloe* 4 to 6 dr.
IVwdtrcd tin 3 to 4 dr.
Ctutile lOBp 3 dr.
Oil of Clorn 10 to 20 drops-
Ginger 1 to 2 dr.
Synip enough to form tlie ball.
No.9> Oil of turpentine 4 oz.
Oatmeal gruel 1 pint
No. 4. Oil of turpentine 4os.
Castor or lin»ecd oil 8 ox.
Gruel » 8 OK.
Mix for one dose.
A largrr pro])ortion ofaloec is generally prescribed by JarrierT
and druggists; but mdi strong dose* are injuriouti, and some-
timee fatal. See Cathartics and Piivsic
As worms in lioi-«e» genenilly arise from bad manacemcnl
and improper food, by which the digestive organs aroweaKeoed,
))o iwrinunent good can be expi^twl from medicine, unless that
error be corrected. Wholesome fooil, therefore, in proper quan-
tity, or in proportion lo the animal's Inlxnir, is inirnlinllj imriwuij.
' ill order to eradicate worms from hi» bowels, uid restore htm H
a state of health and good working condition. See Worms.
ANTIMONY. — AntimoHiaiN. Tliis i* a heavy, shining,
brittle mineral, somewhat like Uack lead wJk-h |>owdered, but
of a darker colour. Ii is common in Germany and France. A
small quantity is found in Cornwall, but nut suffictendy purt
fur metflcinal pvirposes.
It ii given as an alterative, in doses of 2 drachms to an ounce,
to improve tlie coat and condition of horses: some gire it to
flcstroy worms ; bui it does not app4-ar to possess much power
AND PHARMACOPCeiA. 481
of that kind. A variety of useful preparations is made from
antimony, many of which are more efficacious than the mineral
itaelf; among these are antimonial poioder, which is said to be
the same as Jame^t powder, emetic tartar (tartarised antimony),
hermea mineral, or precipitated gulpkuret of antimony, oxide of an-
timony, S;c, The most useful preparations are the tartarized
antimony, commonly named emelic tartar (see Emetic Tab-
tar), antimonial powder, and the sulphuret, or common anti-
mony, such as is sold under the name of antimony ; but this
should be finely powdered or levigated, or prepared in the way
chalk is. When antimony is thus brought to an impalpable
powder, a smaller dose will be sufficient, and its effect will be
much more certain. To these may be added the precipitated
sulphuret of antimony, though it is seldom employed, except as
an alterative. As a fever medicine tartarized antimony and
antimonial powder* are certainly preferable to every other pre-
paration, and are those most commonly employed. There is
another fluid preparation which is ot^n employed as a caustic,
formerly named butter of atitimony, but now muriate of anti-
monv. The dose of tartarized antimony is from one to two
drachms ; and, though a powerful emetic in the human stomach,
does not appear to excite nausea in the horse ; but given largely
is more apt to affect the kidneys or bowels. It is considered,
by veterinary practitioners, as a safe and effectual fever medi-
cine. The common dose is about 1^ drachm or 2 drachms.
Some practitioners, however, prefer the antimonial powder, as
being milder and more effectual ; but I believe they are both
perfectly innocent in the dose commonly employed ; and joined
with nitre certainly produce a good effect as an auxiliary to that
important remedy, bleeding. {See Febrifuges, or Fever
Medicines.) Both tartarized antimony and antimonial powder
are occasionally Joined with camphor as a fever medicine, and
sometimes, but not often, with opium. (See Sudorifics.)
Tlie sulphuret of antimony is inert, unless it meet with an acid
in the stomach.
ANTISEPTICS are medicines which prevent putridity, or
remove it if already begun. The most efficacious are bark and
oAer bitters ; opium, wine, ether, ammonia, and campltor.
Horses do not appear to be subject to those fevers which, in
the human system, are termed putrid ; so that these medicines
ate not required. However, as in putrid fever, it is certain that
the presence of very offensive fffices in the alimentary canal will
prove a source of great irritation to the system ; and it may also
here be remarked, that the urine, if retained for any consider-
able time, will have a similar tendency to create irritation and
• Antimonial powder ia now rarely used in the horse, being considered ineflec-
toal. It is, however, found useful in thed<^,piLrticulBi\j\adiSUmv«>— ^'n.
E £ 3
4M
MATCRIA HEDICA
com(H|uc-iit dimraflji. Ant)«r[>t>C8«re nothing more than cordials
ami lonicK, iukI iiro as improjier for the borac as for nian dnring
ihc fobrilc »ijiKe, Tl»e_v can only be scnriceable when debility
tvmniiis nft"" Ihe tymytomt offner have vamaAed, Tbc best ex-
ternal ni>ti!Kr[>tic i* a iiolutioD of chloride of lime.
ANTISPASMODICS are niedkines which pooaoa the
power ufnllayiiij; tnoi-dinnie or painful motioiia in lIieayitOBi
partkiiliirly thoM- involuntarjr couiracttooa in parts wbidi are
naturally subject lo lh« command of ilie will.
Modical writcn divide aHtufHttmodiet into two kinda; vii.
KtimulaiitM (tnd xvdaiives. To lh« former belor^ preparatioas «(
coppt-r, zinc, and iron ; aim amnioiiia, clber, esaential oils, Sec.
The latter compreltend opium, mtiak, cninptwr, Valerian, aod
all tli«' vt^otuble narrotict.
MkliciiM-* of th« furiid kind, sitcb as galbanum, sataliiBlida,
8Lc Itavi' n\*f> an mitisiMitmodic quality.
Wlwii ^[iiwiti ariMM fron> irritation, tfilatire* are to be girm;
but wlicn it depends merely on debility, tenia are enraeod;
proiM-r. 'I'lie spasmodtc complaints to which liorses are mwlfy
liable, are lockra-jiiw and npasinodic or lUtulent eolic> comnraoly
naniiH) gripn or frt:!, in which iWnioii efficuciuu« antitpaamodie
is opium ; but it i* generally joinvtl with others, sucb »
cam|>hor, a-inftciiila, etiier, oil of pepjHTniint, juniper, caivwayi^
ftllapice, or other aromnticft.
'Ilie spices and uroniatic tetxb, such ■■ cinnamon, clorcs,
ginger, caraways, nni»»s«;d, &c., are often joined with opium,
either in powdt-r or infused with it in proof spirit, to form a
linciurc, ant\ will bv found a good antispasmodic in tliat fonn.
APEUIENTS. Opeiiiiij; mediinnea. See Laxatives and
Cathaktrs,
AQUAFORTIS. Weak nitimts add. See Aao, NtnwiTS.
ARBUTUS, UVA URSI. Wlwrileberry, Bearbmy, or
Trailing Arbutus, lliis shrub is n native of the northern parts
of Kurnpe, and is found crowing in a wild state on the heaths f
and mininlains uf Scotland. It flou-crH in June, and should SH
gaihcroil in Aulunin, the green leaves atone being taken tfl^l
dried by a gentle lieal. The principal property of Uva uni i*
lutringeui. It is given to man in uloeraiions of the nrinan-
orgims, as the kidneys or bladder, and as been strongly recom-
mended in cases of phthisis piilmonalis. It may likewise be ex-
hibited in niml fluxes arising from debility, as i»eiiori4iagia.
fluiir jtlbtLS diabetes, &c. I am not aware that it has yet re-
ceived a sufficient trial with regard to the horse ; but 1 am in-
clined to think it might be found serviceable in many casci of
relaxation of the solids. In chronic diabetes I iltould leel mudi
tempted to make inv of it. It may he given in substance i»
doses of from half an oance 1.0 %tv uuucu three limes a day. li
AMD FBARHACOPtBIA. 423
may be detected in the urine three quartera of an hoar after its
administration.
ARGENTI NITRAS. Nitrate of Silver. Lunar Camtic.
A very powerful escharotic This is generally used for destroy-
ing the exuberant fungous growths from ulcers. It is also em-
ployed in a liquid form, for the purpose of injecting sinuous
Bores, and stimulating indolent ulcers or wounds. It is occa-
sionally prescribed as a tonic and antispasmodic for man ; but, I
believe, u seldom, if ever, administered internally to the horse.
(See Caustics and Eschabotics.) Of course, when used as an
eadiarodc or stimulant it will require to be diluted with dif-
ferent proportions of water.'
AROMATICS. Stimulants that possess an agreeable odour,
gQcb as cinnamon, cloves. Sec
AaoHATic CoNFEcnoN. — Canfictia Aromattca. This is
made by triturating together, until reduced to a very fine
powder, two ounces of cinnamon bark, two ounces of nutm^s,
the Bune quantity of dried saffron, one ounce of cloves, half an
otince of cardaraum seeds, and sixteen ounces of prepared shells,
and then gradually adding one pint of water, mixing the whole
until thoroughly incorporated. The combinations of aromatlcs
are stimulant cordial, and carminative; and, if not thought too
expensive, may be given to the horse, in the dose of from half
an ounce to an ounces dissolved in warm ale. It is a common
custom to administer cardials to horses after hunting or under-
going any great d^;ree of fatigue ; hut it should be remembered
that there are limits to this practice, and that when undue action
is exciteil, whether in the stomach or any other organ, it is in-
Tariably followed by pn^rtiouate depression.
Abouatic Fowdeb. — Pvlvit Aromaiiau. Take of carda-
mom seeds, ginger, and cinnamon hark, equal parts. Rub
them down to a very fine powder, and keep in a well-stopped
phiaL This is a good cordial powder, and may be given in a
doae of two or three drachms in warm ale, in such cases as re-
quire the use of cordials. For veterinary purposes, the following
composition is, I think, preferable : —
veterinary aromatic powder.
Powdered caraway seeds 6 oz.
Powdered allspice^ 4 oz.
Jamaica ginger powdered 2 oz.
Liquorice powder. 2 oz.— Mix,
The dose from 6 to 8 drachms.
* Lnnu caustic is sold in the fomi of aticlu, one of which being inserted in
a tjuill formi a ven convenient caustic iot many purposea, but particulariy as
an ^>plicatiDii to the wounds caused by the bite of a rabid dog. It forroi a
E E 4
484
ir the form of a ball is {iiorcrred, it ma;r ^ obtained bj- bcM*
ins up a doiie of die powders with a little treacle.
ARKOW-ROOT. Sec »rAw:it.
AKSKNIC. — Araenicum. New name, Ar«cnioi» Acid
There are two preparetioiia of arsenic that are principallr mtdr
uu! of in veterinary practioe : atid these are the wkiu anmk, or
oridf of artenic, and llie ^Uotc arsenic, gr sulpburft of arvfm.
Tlic latiei- ifl a combination of while arsenic and sulphur, eithft
natural or nrtillcial, varying in colour according to the propor-
tion of sulphur, which, when couaidersble, gives it an orange or
red colour ; it in then called Rathfar^ and u»^d as a pigment only.
White arsenic is obtained in the process of roasting certaia
or*^ 'I'iie arsenic sublitneai and is collected in chimncT*
ad»pie<l to tlie purpose It is beautifully white, and very bcary,
but easily reduced to a powder. 'Itie powdered arsenic of (m
iJiop* is geiKnilly adulterated, and ought never to be depended
ujpon. Tile practitioner tlwuld always buy it in die lump, wd
either powder it himself, or see it done.
While arsenic has been connidered a good tonic for Itorws;
aiKl, thuu}j;h a violent poiion in the human system, may begivca
to these animals with safety- From ii» tonic quality ii has sus-
pended, or apparently cured t)M> glanders; but its elTect in this
vray, 1 believe, i* never permanent. It is prudent to begin with
a small dose — from two to eight grains. This may be gradualljr
increased, and conlinuod iw lung its it does not occasion irritatH^
of lite stomach or bowck, or bring on vertigo. When 1^^
symptoms of these complaints manifest themselves tin; use of
arsenic should be immediately discontinued. In experimnitt
on glaiidered horses, I have seen a dose of two drachms given
twice a day, and continued for a week ; at which period it pro-
duced itiflammation of the bowels. I have even kitown two
drachms given for two or three days successively, without any
violent effect ; it will sumetimcs, however, occasion great dis*
Inrbancc in the stomach and bowels, in much smaller doses, and
if continued without carefully watching its cAicct, may do great
mischief.
Though arsenic has been often given by way of experiment to
glandered liorscs, even in large dorses, wiiliout producing any
violent tfrei'l, yet cases have occurred where moderate or even
small doK^ have occasioned considerable disturbance in die
stomach and bowels. In one case I have known it produce a
dial inflammation of the stomach in a moderate dose: the
groom liaving persisted in the use of it af^r the injurious I'ffixt
black cichnr in whirK ihc poiton I* alinorlieJ. »aiA tbiis rendered harmlov.
A neuk solution of luiiiir cnuntic in dixlitloil water Imm been applied to in-
flonicii eyw with adrkniogv. 8ec OrnTiut-in*.
AND PBARHACOFCEIA. 425
wbich it sometimes produces hod taken place. When arsenic
disagrees with the stomach it causes loss of appetite, shivering,
dejection, uneasiness in the stomach and bowels, which gradually
increase, unless it be discontinued; in such cases castor oil, oat-
meal gruel, and infusion of linseed, should be given. When
castor oil cannot be procured, linseed oil may be substituted for
il^ or olire oil. Perhaps the most efficacious antidote to the effects
of arsenic is lime water, which forms with the arsenic arseniateof
lime, an insoluble, and consequently an innocuous, substance.
Ch^k and water is likewise a good antidote to arsenic, and
where this cannot be obt^ned, one part of common soap may
be dissolved in four of water, by weight, and given in large
qoantitiee.
In reviewing the experiments that have been made with ar-
senic, it does not appear that it has ever done any good in
slanders, and that when it has proved beneficial in farcy, it has
been given in small doses from ten to fifteen grains or even less,
joined with sublimate ; and then the latter, that is, the sublimate,
was, I suspect, the most useful ingredient
As the white oxide of arsenic is found, after death, to adhere
to the coat of the stomach, it is not improbable that a solution of
arsenic would be a more advantageous mode of employing this
medicine. The preparation generally known W the name of
"Fowler's Solution " may be exhibited in doses of half a drachm,
twice or three times a day, to begin with, and gradually in-
creased so long as no unfavourable symptoms are perceived.
TTje use of arsenic is contra-indicated whenever there exist any
afiections of the lungs, or where febrile action is going on. In
short, this being a dangerous medicine to trifle with, should
never be used without the sanction of the veterinary surgeon.
As s tonic *, it has been strongly recommended in small doses,
or in solution, but it should be given with caution, and not until
the vegetable tonics, such as gentian, columbo, bark, cordials,
wholesome food, and occasionsJly physic, have proved ineffectual.
Yellow arsenic, finely powdered and mixed with lard, is some-
times used by ferriers to remove warts; also in fistula of the
withers and poll-evil, but its effect is sometimes violent, and ex-
tends beyond the diseased parts, f
ASSAFCETIDA. — Aisofaetidte, Gummi-resina. Assafoetida
is sent to this cttuntry packed in cases, casks, and mats. That
contained in the cases is to be preferred. It is in irregular
* Arsenic in doses of four to eight CTuns has been given as a verniifuee end
a tonic with good effect, combined witti ginger and sulphate of iron. It may
be thus administered in the food for six or eight days, and if given for wonns
■ may be foUowed with a dose of physic. — Ed.
-f Arsenic in the form of a lotion with carbonate of potash is recommended
for tbe destructioD of vermin in cattle. See Work on Catlle,Sic. — Ed.
HATCBT-l UCmcA
lump*! of a reddult-brovm colour, iniersipcted bv small gliktemRg
Ittn, of a pale ml, whitUli, or violel tine. Tbe be*t qm]it<r ti
tlutt whicii coiiiaint tbe moat itors, nnd is of n light red colour.
1 It ■« a gummy and resiiioua rabttuncr, poueMiiif^ • powerlul tad
[noai unpleuaiu amdl. It it murb nmul in buman medicine «■
[an anlifpiutnodic, in nervous and ImiprirAl coniplKint.-<. In n-
' tertnury practice it is not to fret(ijentl; cmuloycd, thoufili some
pntciitionen 8|M-&k bifjbly of iu rirtun. It ts said to be wr-
Lviccalile in obittinate codf^M, or thieknenof wind, flatulent colic,
'tad locketl-j.nvr. It iii)p<~ars to be more cfEciicious when jmmd
wiib Binniiinin, in tbe form ofJrFiid tpirit of ammonia, a prepan-
tton kqit t» llie kl)(j|i». Tliv doM of aasoToetida is from two
|dntclini» to bair iin ounce or more; it is generally joined wttb
' gallmnuni, nmmoii'uicum, o|Mum, &e. When employed as an ex-
pfctoranl, Kjtiill, ammoniac iiin, canipbor, or opium may bo addnL
TIk' iIow of ibe fstid spirit of amrooniiL is from one ounce lo
one ounce and a Imlf.
ASTRAGALUS TRAGACANTHA. Gooi Tragwanik
Tlic pro[>ertief of ibis giim arc similar to lltOM^ of Gum Arabic
ASTRIXGKNTS. Medicines lliat diminish incn-asrd eva-
cuniioit*, M those of dung or urine in ibe diseases named diai>
rhoea unci diabetes: tltcy are employed also for live cure of bloody
urine, nnd Mtnetimcs externally to licnl wounds, or put a stop
to tliat diKcliBrgc from ll>e liecis, termed ;;rcasc, as well as to
beal those pninful 6ores or cracks with which that part is ofttn
affected in winter. Medical writers generally class Uie prepara-
tions of iron, ct^per, >inc, and lead, with astringents : those.
however, hare not been found very useful as internal remedies
in the horse; and whei)e%'er they prove seniceable, it is in case*
of debility, in which tonics are required.
'I'lie mineral tonics have been recommended in diabetes.
ct())oeial)y sulphate of copper (blue vitriol), which I have been in-
formetl has, in several cases, been found an effectual renwdy (ot
diabet«4. The dose, about one draehni, joined witli other tontcsi
cordials, or aslriii^enls, such as cascarilla or cincliona barkt or
the common cordial Ikall. Ttte effect of those medicioea is con-
r aiderably jiromuicd by a nitlriiiuus diet, moderate exercise and
good grooming. Aslrlngi-ntK must be employed with much
caution in diarrkaea, esftecially in horses. In these animals it is
f^ncrally occasiont>d by bad hay or oats, and may be corrected
y altering the diet. In hones of weak constilutiont it may be
• brought on by drinking too freely of very cold waUT. In such
[eases the remedy h ubviouf. In general, tbe diarrboaof borecs
|niay be ttopped by attiiilion to thcte circumstattces, esfWeially if
unsisted by gruel nuulc of arntw-root or wheat flour; and it b.
tenly ut\er this ba« failed that astringents should be rci»orie<l to-
The diarrbcea of cattle is of a more formidable nature, aiul pe-
AND FHABHACOPC2IA. 427
neraliy prorea iocnraUe, unless the animal ts sheltered from the
weather, and fed partly or wholly on wholesome nutritious food.
The astrinfi^ntB most usd'ul in the diarrhoea of cattle are catechu,
kino, oak-bark, pom^anate-bark, with aromatics and opium,
joined with a nutritious diet. Diuretics have been pi'eecribed,
■oeh as turpentine, which probably may be advantageously joined
with tonics or cordials. Astringents are often required as ex-
ternal applications, as in grease, and troublesome itores about the
heels or other parts, or thrushes of the frog. For such purposes
finely-powderoi alum, either alone or mixed with pipe-clay, or
bole-armenic, may be used ; or sulphate of zinc or copper, finely
powdered and mixed with pipe-clay, chalk, or bole, or dissolved
in water or vin^ar. These astringents may be occasionally
mixed with lard, or wax ointment, in woich case they should be re-
duced to a very fine powder. Acetate of lead (sugar of lead) is an
excellent astringent for external use, whether dissolved in water,
or diluted with vin^ar or spirit, and employed as a lotion, or with
lard or other unctuous substances, and used as an ointment. (See
Acetate op Lead.) Though the sulphate of copper (blue
vitriol) is named here as an astringent, it may be rather consi-
dered an etckarotie or mild caustic when used alone externally;
bat it maybe so weakened by dilutionas to become an astringent,
and when sufficiently weakened with water, may be applied even
to the eyes. (See Copper.) Sulphate of zinc (white vitriol or
copperas) is also an useful astringent when rendered mild by
mixture with water or unctuous substances, such as lard ; but
alum is still milder, and may be used as an astringent in powder.
Sulphate of iron (green copperas or vitriol) is a powerful astrin-
gent, and b sometimes used internally as a tonic. The dose
from one to two or three drachms. It is seldom employed ex-
ternally, and then in solution only. From the for«^oing obser-
vations it will be seen that the distinction between tonics and
astringents is not very clearly marked. The mode of operation
of astringents on the living body has been erroneously supposed
to be similar to that by which dead animal fibres are constnnged
and condensed. That property of vegetables which is termed
astringency, as it relates to dead animal matter, results from a
peculiar principle, termed by chemists tannin, and the gallic acid.
The former is remarkable for its strong attraction for animal
gelatine, and the latter for striking a black colour with the salts
of iron. But increased evacuations, or a discharge of matter or
other fluid from the skin or from sores, do not depend merely
upon mechanical laxity of the solids ; nor does the process by
wliich they are restrained resemble that by which dead animal
matter is constringed or condensed, as in tanning hides. As-
tringency therefore, in a medical sense, is a peculiar power
exerted upon living matter, by which inordinate evacuations or
426 MATEHIA HEDICA .
diBcharges are restrained or suppressed, in a manner with wbidi
we are unacquatnted. There are other v^elables, besides those
above prescribed, that are occasionally nsra as astringents, sncli
as tormentil, bistort, galls, madder, dragon's blood, catecho,
logwood, &c., each of which will be noticed under its reapectiTe
name. The term astringent is often applied to those medicines
or preparations that are supposed to possess the power of puttuig
a stop to haemorrhage or bleeding, either internally or externally
from wounds; these will be noticed under the head Styptiet.
ASTRINGENTS,
For dtarrkcea, dtabetei, or red waier.
No. 1. Opium ^ dr. to 1 dr.
Ginger „. 1| dr.
Prepared chalk 3 dr.
Flour 2 dr.
Mix into a ball with treacle, syrup, or honey, for one dose.
No. 2. Powdered opium 1 dr.
Powdered catechu 2 dr.
Powdered chalk 1 oz.
To be given in arrow root, starch, or thick grud.
No. 3. Powdered catechu 2 to 4 dr.
Alum 2 to 4 dr.
Powdered opium | dr. to 1 dr.
Powdered ginger. 1 to 2 dr.
Oil of cloves 10 drops.
Treacle to form a ball.
For diabetes, or an excessive discharge of urine.
No. 1. Catecliu, or kino 2 to 4 dr.
Powdered ginger 1 to 2 dr.
Powdered gentian 2 to 3 dr.
Opium ^ dr.
Oil of caraways 20 drops.
Syrup enough to form the ball. One dose.
No. 2. Opium J dr. to 1 dr.
Ginger. 1 to 2 dr.
Cinchona, or Peruvian bark j or
when that cannot be had, pow-
dered oak bark 1 oz. or mor&
To be mixed with a decoction of oak bark, or a strong infiisioD
of camomile flowers, and given as a drench. Either of these
may be given early in the morning, and repeated at night>
should it be found necessary.
AND PHARMACOF(EIA. 43ft
EXTERNAL ASTBINGENT&
POWDERS.
No. 1. Powdered alum 4 oz.
Armenian bole. 1 oz. — Mix.
Na2. White vitriol « 2 oz.
Flowers of zinc ».. 1 oz. — Mix.
LOTIONS.
No. 3. A strong Goulard mixture.
No. 4. A solution of blue vitriol, white
vitriol or alum.
OIHTMENTS.
No. I. Venice turpentine. 4 oz.
Bees' wax I oz.
Hog's lard 4 oz.
Melt over a slow fire; and when rather cool, but while it is
liquid, add sugar of lead I oz., or alum, finely powdered, 2 oz.
Stir the mixture until it is cold.
No. 2. Ointment of yellow resin 4 oz.
Oil of turpentine 1 oz.
Sulphate of copper finely powdered ^ oz. — Mix.
No. 3. Red nitrated mercury, connnonly
named red precipitate, nibbed
down to a very fine powder 1 dr.
Calamine cerate, commonly named
Tumer'a cerate 2 oz. — Mix.
B^mark, — The astringent powders and ointmenUaredeBis;ned
chiefly as remedies for the grease, after the infiammation of the
part has been in great measure removed by proper poultices;
but the ointment is applicable only to those ulcerations or cracks
which are sometimes an effect of that disease ; and often oc-
curring from other causes.
BALLS. — Bolt, Medicine is most commonly given to
horses in the form of a ball or bolus, the size of which should not
exceed that of a hen's egg. Though named a baB, it is gene>
rally rolled up in a cylindrical form, about one inch in diameter,
and two and a half or three in length ; but the form of an egg,
perhaps, is preferable. There is somedmes difBculty in giving
baOM, without using the instrument termed a batting iron; ana there
HATEItlA NECICA
arc some horses that will not take • b«li bj any oilier mtvta.
In giving a ball, llic horEc's tongue is drawn out on tbe off or
right side, and held firinly with tlw Icll hand, while with the
right t)>e ball is quickly psswd over the toiiifue into tlie pliarynx,
or lop ol' tiic gullet, rhe liaiid liliuuld be kept as near to the
roof of t)ie mouth as possible in giving tJie ball ; there will then
be much less danger of bcin;^ wounded by the teeth. The tniy
nient the riglit hand is witbdrawn from the nwuth ibe tongue a
let looce, and tlie ball generally swallowed. The ba/lintf inm a
BO contrived as to keep tlic mouth open, while tlie ball ia forcnl
into the throat; it it then immediately withdrawn.
Balls should be made at tlie time they are wanted; ai b;
keeping they often become so hard as to be almost insoluble in
tlie stomach, sometimes passing through the intestines unchanEed:
by keeping Otoy also lose much of their atrcngth, panicuurly
wlien the ingreJieiils are evaporablc in the common tempenture
of tlie atmosphere, which is Ok case with camphor, ajnmoiiit.
essential oils, &c. But the most serious inconvenienee which
arises from giving balls thai hare been kept until t)>ey become
very hard, is, lliat they are liable to slick in Uie throat or gullet,
and thereby endanger tite Itorse's lite; indeed, 1 have known
Itorses destroyed in this way.
Balls cannot be eonveiiiently given mdcas wrappt^l up in
paper: but for this purpose the softest aud thinueat should be
ehusen.
The balling iron may be covered with cloth or listing to pre-
vent the mouth from being bruued by it. In Imlding tlw ton^
witli tbe lell hand while the ball is tnlrcxluced, great cnrc i* ri^-
tjuired, as tlie roii^i and violent manner in which ilits is sotn^
times done often injures the tongue or lacerates the under pan
of it, named the bridle. The muscles by which swullowing it
efft>cied majF also be seriously injured in this way. In viotont
colds, strangles, Sic, there is ofVen so much soreneu of the thrtul
as (o render swallowing veiy painful and difficult; >n such cam
neither balU nor drencAst shoiud be given, a> tliey are sure to do
mischief by iriitating the throat, and may even auITocale tJM
animal by getting into the windpij>e. (bee DnENciii;^.) An
instrument haa Uwn contrived for introducing Uslls into tht
mouth, and ii sold by the veterinary iiutrument makent.
When a ball is found to exceed the j)ru|>er aifx\ it dtoidd 1m
divided and given ieparalcly, as much injury Itas U'en done br
f living halls too large, t^pecially whui they have become dry and
lard, or wi^ped in thick {uipcr. 1 luive known two honn
killed in this way. In making balls, the dry ingredients ahoukj
be liiielv ]>owdered and welt mix<-d; th« liquid for forming them
into bafis should be adapted to the nature of llie other ingTc
dJeiits. Wtien a ball contains any acrii), or VC17 [tonerrnl ingre-
AND PHARMACOPCCIA. 431
dient, auch as aublinute or areenic, flour and paste may be em-
ployed for mixing it up, and a small bran masn should be given
a little before or after it. After giving a ball, grooms sometimes
press or pinch the throat for the purpose of making the horse
swallow It : but this should never be done, as it is apt to excite
coughing, by which swallowing is prevented. The only thing
necessary after the hand is withdrawn is to keep the mouth shut,
and press the nose downwards, in a moderate degree, towards
the chest. Pievious to the composition of a medicine it is neces-
sary to consider whether its operation is required on the stomach,
the alimentary part of the intestinal canal, or the large intes-
tines. If on the stomach, a drench is the best form ; if on the
alimentary canal or small intestines, a soft ball, containing a small
quantity of potash or soda, should be preferred, unless there is
Bny ingredient in the ball which renders an alkali improper.
There is a quality in potash which may be considered an incon-
venience, but it is really an advantage; a ball containing potash
continues soft, and, if kept, becomes too soft by the moisture
which the potash attracts ; therefore it must be given soon after
it is made. In forming a cathartic, soap is the best article that
can be employed, provided it be not incompatible with the other
iDgredients of the ball. Balls, made with soap, even if kept some
time, may be given without that danger which attends the ex-
hibition of old or hard cordial or diuretic balls, which do not
contain soap or potash ; therefore, balls which are intended to be
kept some time, such as diuretics, should always be formed with
soap. Balls made with resin or turpentine, nitre, &c., or cordial
balls made with syrup, and kept to become hard, are not only
liable to remain in the large intestines, causing the conglu-
tination of the earthy matter contained in the excrement, or
serving as a nucleus for it, and producing the large stones some-
times found there, but are liable also to stick in the cbso-
phagus or gullet, and so low down, that is, within the cavity of
the chest, as to remain undiscovered, and cause the animal's death.
I have met with such cases, and was not aware of the circumstance
till afler the horse's death, when I discovered the ball wrapped in
brown paper and firmly lodged in the lower part of the oesophagus.
In (he three cases I have seen, the ball was of the cordial kind, and
two of them wn^ped in brown paper : in one of them sulphur was
an ingredient. One of them was lodged about the pharynx, and
prodneed a fatal inflammation of the windpipe and lungs. Tliis
DOrse was labouring under a severe catarrhal affection at the ti me
the bait was given, attended probably with sore throat, in which
case no attempt should ever be made to give either balls or
drenches. In the other two cases the balls were lodged in the
lower part of the oesophagus. The symptoms were those of
choking terminating in suffocation. In one instance the appetite
432 MATERIA HEDICA
and power of Bwallowing continued until the npper or all thai
part of the oesophagus that could be felt in toe neck wai dii-
tended with masticated foodi as if it had been ranuoed into it, n
that the animal was at length suffi>cated.
couan BALLS.
No. 1. Gum ammoniac 2 to 3 dr.
Powdered squills ...». 1 dr.
Camphor 1 dr.
Castile soap 2 dr.
Oil of anise-seed 20 drops.
Syrup and flour enough to fenn the ball.
No. 2. Digiulia 2 scruples.
Camphor 1 dr.
Nitre 3 dr.
Tartarized antimony 1 dr.
Soft Boap to form a ball.
CORDIAL DIURETIC BAIX.
Common turpentine and hard soap,
of each 3 dr.
Powdered ginger „ I dr.
Powdered allspice 1 to 2 dr.
Liquorice or linseed powder enough to form a ball.
CORDIAL BALLS.
No. 1. Powdered ginger... 1 dr.
Powdered allspice 2 dr.
Fresh powdered caraway seeds .... 3 dr.
Treacle enough to make a ball.
If this should not succeed, give —
No. 2. Sulphate of iron 2 or 3 dr.
Powdered gentian 3 or 4 dr.
Powdered ginger 1 dr.
Treacle as much as is requisite to form the ball.
BALSAMS. — Bahama. Balsams are generally fluid, t&
various degrees of thickness, odorous and combustible : they re-
semble resins, being soluble in spirit of wine; and when thin
dissolved, impart to water a sweetish taste, and s milky if-
pearance.
Balsam of Canada is a very pure kind of turpentine; and
though preferred on this account to Venice and common tiir-
peniinc, is imneceasarj* in veleritiary medicine, |}«ng very ex-
Eiisive; whereas Venice uirpentine is mucli flic«i)CT, and I
licve equally efficacious.
Canada Sabam 18 a strong diuretic iti tlie dose of one ounce
or more ; in smaller doses it lias been recommended iii clironic
cough, and diseases of ihe lungs. [It is recommended liy Mr.
Morion for the preparation of tape or cotton for octons. See
Setons. — Ed,]
Balsam op Copaiba, or Capwy, possesses nt-itrly the Manic
properties as tlie preceding.
The dose ia about one or two ounces, or more.
Balsam, Friar's, or Traumatie, now iianie<i Compound
Tincture of Benjamin, or Benzoin, ia nutde in ihc fulluwing
manner : —
I Benzoin 3 oz.
I Slomx balsam, strained 8 oz.
I Bulvini of Colli I oz.
^_^ Extract uf spiked aloea g oz.
^H Kcctifk-d «pirit 'z pints.
r Mnc<*rate for fourteen days (seven days; Dub.), and filter or
strain through blotting paper. The properties of thia tincture
are stimulating and expectorant, and it is therefore by some pre-
scribed, in combination with other remedies, in caaes of old
chronic eougii or broken wind. As it is decomposed by water,
it ahould fxvsi be amalgamated with mucilage or yolk of egg, in
order to suspend it in aqueous liquids, when given internally.
However, its principal use is that of a stimulant external appli-
cation to indolent sores or wounds.
Balsam of Gilead is nearly similar to the capioy, but more
Eleasaiit. Many virtues liave been attributed to these balsams
y medical writers: lliey were supposed to heal ulceration of ilie
longs, kidneys, or oUier internal parts, and to be jjoworful cor-
rt^torania. They do not appear, however, to possess these qua-
lities, nor do tliey seem lo differ much from turpentine in their
nuilical virtues. See Tubpentine.
Balsam op Peku. This is of a dilTerent kind from the
funner baliiams being more stimulating.
The dose is from one lo two drachms. {See Expectobants
and Pfxtokals.) It is sometimes used externally as an appli*
eaiion to irritable ulcers.
Balsam of Toi.u. This is generally in a solid form, of n
light yellowi.fh colour, and fraj^rant odour: it is used for the
same piirpom-x as the balsam of I'eru, in doses from one to two
drachinx.
Bau(am or Sui.Piiun. This ia made by boiling sulphur and
olive oil, until they are united : tliey form a dark-coloured taasn^
I
MATESIA MCDICA
nitli«r like trcncle in ap{>eanuKe, but more tenacious, and ot a
wry diMgreeable odour.
B»lt«ru of sulphur is used as an txpeetonmt } but brritn
frcqurntty employ it in recent inflammatory couglis, whi^i »
imnro|M-r.
11h- dose is Trom half an ounce to one ounc«, mixed with
aiitiw or liquorice powder.
IJAKB.^DOES ALOKS. See Aloes.
HARBADOICS TAH.— /'f/ro/rnm. This is a bituninow
•ubiutice, brought Trom the island of Baibadoea. It is iiearijf
of tlu- colour and consitiiencp of common tar, but smells differ-
ent)}', and its colour approaches more (a brown. It t* insoluble
in water, but dissolres in akohol, ether, and iit the fixed and
volatile oils, and combines with fal, essential oil, resins, and
cam[d)or. Ry subjection to tlic influence of aulphuric or nitric
ncid it becomes a solid resin. It tus a considerable diureuV
]>ower, and is said to be useful in chronic coushs. Farriers in-
(px-nily use il in t))is disease; but bv giving it indiscriminately
tlipy often do nii»cliief.
BAHK, PF,RUVIAN',orJ«Kt//B<iri.— CV«cAfl««. Tliou^
in the human subject bark is an uaefnl tonic and febrifuge me-
dicine, it has no very renarkable efiect on the hor»e. I hm
seen it do fcood, however, in diabetes, a disease consistinfi in sii
excessive disdmrge of urim-.
The doHe is frum six drachms to one ounce and a half or tvs
ounces.
There are throe sorts of bark : tlie pide or Jie*uiti\ the ni,
and tlie yr/^oir. 'Ilie first is considered (he be«l, and is most
eommonly umxI; but (he others do not grvady dilFcr from it in
their elTccts. Oak bark would probably be found an useful sub-
stitute for I'cruviflii bark. By boiling bark in water a consi
able time, its virtues are said to be considerably diminished.
There is a oonccntrated preparation of bark, called the
phate of Quinine. I am not aware thni it lus ever been els'
ployed R6 a horse medicine, but should feel disposed to give il «
trial. The dose may be from ten grains tu thirty, twice or thm
times a, dav. *
BARLEY. — Uordti Sanina. This ts sometimes used as bid
for horses; but is less fit for that purpose (ban oats or beans. 1
liaro known it tried as a substitute for the former, when it wit
found difficult of digestion, and productive of many coniplaint&t
■ Mr. Morton n-commenrfi h a« a nhisble tonic after infhisiRMtoty sMi#
liiu licen BubJiinl, in iluact oriroiii ^lo 1 dmehm. Its chief olijcction Wppon
tu t>L' its (\|)ttiftt. ^ lin.
f ItHriv}' in !> very inflaiiimntury diet fi>r liortea, snJ Bfit to inJucr cnnM
mid >wel1(xl bgi, lint when inriiKVil in wstor till it bt^ns to germinate, lU in*
dii/nmotory pf iipcnics »p\)co« \obe tcnwivcil.— Ed.
SUD-
Atta PHARMACOPIRIA. 483
If horse*, however, be accustomed lo it gradutitly, tt proves very
niiiritious uid mcful.
Hoiled burlcy h rt'cutniiicndud liy Gibson as nutritious food,
rojyofdifirvstioii, and fit i'uv sick or convaWccnt lioisee. l)arley>
watcr> »weclciiwl, may be Ibtiixl aii ii»c("tii drink in fevers, or may
be employed as a veliicle for cooling medicine, such as nitre. It
it made by boiling [learl-bitrh-y fur two or three Iioui's iit water,
A nutritious gruel may be made with barley-meal, ilioiigh
lierhnps iiiferior to tliat mad« with oatmeal or wheat flour. (Seu
IlrsToiiATivi^ and Ohuei..) 1 have been triformcd, that Mr.
Kd^ers, a conch proprietor at i)»iiihninplon, has, for some lime,
ft-d Ins po^t-horscs will) iKirleV timt ho.* been soaked in water
frum twenty lo thirty hours, and chopped slraw; sometimes) I
believe, he puts n little hay in the nick for them,
Mr. Coke, of Norfolk, ii celebrated ii<;riciil[unsl, tried the ex-
|H'rIment of feeding his horses iipiin steeped barley, which was
kept tmlil it bef;an lo sproitl, aii<l found that his horses throve
uncommonly well upon it, and aUo ilint this spccii's of provender
wan niticli less expensive thiin oats. However, the money taved
by this mode of feeding was afterwards lost in another way; fur
ihe Excise, hearing of Mr. Coke's cxperimeots, forced him to
pay the malt duty,
I1.\RVTA.— jfVrro Ponderout. Barytes. This mineral ha*
not yet I)een discovered in an uneombined stale. It is usually
found united either with sulphuric acid or with carbonic acid ;
from which combinations result the sulphate of barytes or htan/
fpor, and the Ciirl>onale of barytes, or teitJierilf, so denominated
after ils discovei'er, Dr. Withering. Doth these substances are
used fur making the muriate of Iraryles, the only preparation of
thi^ niineral in gtrneral use. It is a medicine of very uncertain
jjower, and »hould l>e used with the greatest caution. M. Dupiiy
giire ti tlrachniK Qd grains to a ghuidered mare, of which dose
«he shortly after expiied. Mr. ^^'illiaIn Percival made some ex-
p«'rinic»tit with baryte* upon glandered horses, the results of
which were variouK, and yhowed that, although in some comh
poranurd of con(iderabl« efficacy, it is not altogether a medicine
to be relied on. .Some of the horses treated by Mr. Percival
were destroyed, without their having received any perceptible
benefit from tlie barytes. Olheis were completely cured by ils
■dmiiiistration ; and not a few died fi-om the effects of an over-
doisc. In genera), those horses thut were in pretty good condi-
tion at the time of their odmis^ioii into the iiiHrnniry were found
lo receive most benefit from barytes. Mr. Percival empioywl
lite muriate of barytes in the dose of one drachm, which vtan
muliously increased to three drachms; the horse di«il. Another
case, where half this quantity was usetl, did well. One ounce
niid a (talf of the solution of muriate of b«r\'tes, gradwoAl-j
I- F 2
MATHIA MEtnCJt
iocmaed to two ouncnt, (li-«troyed life in iwt^ty-rour days. A
similar cflect wan produced by linlf n scruple of pun- barvus.
■u|tincntcd to oiir KrupU' and a linlf, and ndininiBteml for
seventeen dayn. The wme do«r, howt-^-cr, siiecei-ded in \wa
ullier in^tanceis in one of which the xm- of the nuiiiciiie iras fet-
»everrtt in for Rei>-cnty-oiM^ ami in ihe otitcr for thirty-two dan.
Wh<.fv the pure bar;m wm given to ihc extent of Tour scruples
(hfginninK "ilh one), it eautvd death; and when carried [u tbe
extent of two dmchnM. the pnlient, a bay j^'ldinf;, ei{;ht yetrt
old uiid ill i^mm] eomlilioii, dii-«l sutldeiily. The carbonate of
barylrs, eiven from ihn-e dmchnis to half an ounn'fordxtyfoor
days, did not iilTord rehef. Howerer, as ibis was the only caM
Ireaittl by ihia pre|)anilion of Inn-tes, it can hardly be aaid to
have receivifl n tiiAcient trial. It will be prudent to niake trill
of this nH>dictne in small doses, giving nut more than half t
drachm of tin- muriate of baryle* to begin with, and not ii^
creasing the d/Ou; to more than threi- limes that c|uantiir. Of
pure Iwiryiif^ from fifteen grains to one scrujile may be sui-
niinistcreil, and cauliotnly increased to one scruple and a Italt
BASILICUM, or BASILICON, a digestive ointment, com-
poerd of n-sin, bees' wax, and olive oil, of each equal parts. It
IS i»w named oinlmml of yellow resin. By adding to it a Utile
oil of tuqH>nline and verdigris it may be employed as a digestive
(or hoPT*. -See Diuir^TivEg.
BATHING. A remedy seldom employed in the diseases of
horses. The warm bath would probably be found useful in
' tome cases, and appears to Ite used in the French veu-rinaty
collvges. I have lieeii inlbnned, lltat Mr. Maberty, of Spring
'Park, Surrey, was Ibrmerly in the habit of putting his honM
ill a warm bath wlienever they returned from hunitng. Tbi(,
although only within ilie reach of people of fortune, is a very
exoi^lent praetioe, as there is freipiently congestion of some par-
ticular organ, as ilie lieart, lungs, or liver, after excessive fatigue,
and tlie warm hath, by drawing the blood into the capillnrics of
the skin, tends to relieve the ovi-r-londed oi^iiii, nnd thcrebj' W
equally' the circtiliiiion. A tojiicnl biith, both warm and cc3A,
applied to ili<- f«-i and tegs, is often of gw-ai n-rvice in lameness-
llATII, VAPOl-'K. Though a \-ii]>our Ixilh would be veiy
servicable on many occasions, yet from ttie difficulty in eoa-
•Iructing it nnd the exponso attending it, it has not beea
generally used. Mr. Mavor has invenied some apparatus for
applying stcHiU locally ; and Mr, Head is now dei'oting his in*
g<'iniity 10 the coitsiriictiou of a vapour bath for horses: bis pf«-
po)x-d mode of application is, I believe, by means of an air>
pn)of ease. — Kn. j
BAY TKEK. — Liauytu NubilU. Tlie leaves and berries*'
the buy Ireo arc employed in veterinary medicine, the iormer «
an ingredient in the decoction Tor fomentations ; tlie Iniler n« u
etomacliic, and aa an ingredient in that ancient, but still wle-
brated stomachic powder, named diapente or diajM-niy, (Scv
SioMAcnics.) Oil of bays aa^iBU tJie action of blisters.
BEANS are often used aa nn article of diet. If given mo-
derately to horses that work hard, they prove extremely useful
and invigorating ; but to such as are not much worked diey ofU'ii
do harm, by disposing the system to inflammatory coniplaiiiiK.
Bean« should be bniiaed or ground, being more easy of digestion
in that slate.
IJEEU or ALE. — Cernfuia. An useful vehicle for cordiul*
and tonics; and when mild and perfectly free from Imrslnit-.-is
or acidity, is of itself a good cordial, especially when given waiiii
with a little grated ginger. It may be given also with onlmcal
or wheat 0our gruel aa a restorative, when a horse is exhausted
by fatigue and long lasting, (See Giiuel and Restoratives.)
In colic, gripes, or fret, n-lien medicines cannot lie procnri-d,
warm ale with a little gin or other spirit, and ginger, may be
given.
HEES' WAX.— Om finw. Sec Wax.
BELLADONNA. Deadly Nightshade. "A powerful nar-
cotic. Tlie extract which is generally employed is lh« inspis-
sated juice of the li-avei ofa plant indigenous to nHlain and the
south of Europe. It is found growing in shady plnci"^ wlu-re
llie soil is calcareous, flowering in June, and ripening its settl-
veasels in September. 'I'he roots are said to possess the most
acttvitv, allhuugli the leaves are commonly employed medicinally.
In order to prc-jHire the extract, these arc bruised in a mortar, a
little water being poured over lliem ; then submiltcd to pressure,
and the juice evajwraied unlit it has acquired a fit conoist-
eitce.
" Proptttits anil Utfs, The odour of this exti'acl is peculiar,
and its taste bitter. lis action is that of a narcotic and sedative,
relieving pain and lessening both the force of the pulse and ihu
number of its beats; hence its use is indicated in all ihoae ditc
eases where nn undue action of the nervous and v,iscular Ky»cemit
are present, as tetanus, carditis, and pneumonic affections gctic-
rallv. Mr. Mavor, of Bond Street, wlio employs it largely, speak*
litgtily of it, as do many other practitioners. It is given in dosca
of from two to four drachms: in larger doirs it acts gently on
the bowels. ENtemally it is ^omrluncs applied to ilie eye, and
by its influence on the radiated fibres of the iris it dilates the
pupil. The same elTecl I liave witnessed from a lai^e quantity
having been administered inlernnlly. In the form of plaster,
it may be bcnelicially apjiliiil to wound* cr<«ti»g much irri-
tation, |>arlicularly in such an have given ri«; to Ictanu*, for its
influence in all neuralgic ad'ections iii wen greater than tlmVo?
Fry
1
MATEtllA MEnir-A
Opium. A watery aolutton may be injected into (he bladder, to
nlUv irritiitinti in tJuit rbccs." — itorton'i iSaiuuiL
liKNZOlN. — Sfyrax Benzoin. AooiicreltrmirtoiusulMtnncc
of It yollouriiili colour, iiicllnitig lo pink, and variegated with buwU
while masses. H}' ex[imiire to a »irong heat, it f^v«« out an n-
trfnieljr light flowery substance, which U tenned fiowvrt tf Btn*
jamin. '1 1)14 \» heuutirully while and fragrant, aiid is osed in
liiiman nveilicine in roitgh^ mid otlier eomplainta of the lunfrL
In vetcrinnry mechdiiv neitlter ibe resin nor flower are etn-
i>l(>ye<l, nor ilo 1 know any iliM^aw in which t)K>y are likely U
w of »»c.
'llicfornier \* an ingredient in tlietraumaticor Friar'« hd^uo.
now ciilkd compound tincture of benzoin ; and ttie latttr is em-
ployed ill making {mregoric elixir, or camphorated tincture of
opium.
BCITKll SWEET, or WOODY NIGHT-SHADE.-
Dttleamrira. The stalks of bitter sweet. Thih la un indigenooi
shrub, found growing in shaded places. Il flowers in June luiil
July, and its propertiesarediuretic and narcotic It is generally
given in the form of decoction, made by boiling one ounce of tlif
slioed fttalks in a pint and a twlf of water, until a pint only of the
liquor remains. The dose from four lo eight ounces.
lU'Il'MKN. Ititiiniinous OiU. Rarbadoea Tar. PrtroUmn.
Certain inflitmiimhle sulMtunces are thus named, oblaiiKtl from
the mineral kingdom, among which are Barbadoe* Tar, Naphihi,
Atplialtum, &c.
Br.lSl'CIlS. This term is applied to nuxlicines that inflame
llie >kin, and cause watery bladders to rise upoti its surface : tlir
mo«t uxefu) of this kind is (he C^nthnris or Spanish fly, which
forms llie priiici)Hil ingredieiil in all our bliaiers. Tliere sic
innny others, however, wliidi are geiii'i-iilly mixed with it at
auxiliaries: among these are hellebore, eupiiorbiam, turpentiixs
and Jtubliiiinte.
Blistei-s are of great use in veterinary medicine : tlicy are ex-
tremely efficacious in dispersing callon* swellings, the coiiEecjuenn*
of ttramt, hraisex, &c.
in inflomniaiion of parts remote from the surrim*, tbev are of
great service. When the internal parts of the foot are influaiMlt
relief is generally obtained by blistering the paatern, provided the
subordinate or auxiliary lemedios are not omilte<t. such as paring
the sole, soaking the horny part of the tool in wnrm waier, or
applying a poiilticf lo it, mvd giving a dose of physic. Wfvn
ih^- lungs are inflamed, blistering the udea freely is an excelliiil
remedy, especially when we feel doubtful as to tlie propriety il
further bleeding.
Biitterifuf is employed also for rurht, temdifnHt, t/taviiu, Sec
JJrokfn knee4, untess aUUCuU^ treated, frctpienily leave a ral-
A!i>D I'llAUMACOllEU.
4911
lous swelling on tho part ; for llic removal of which blistering i*
employed. When bliBters are properly made, and free from any
cttti&lic ingredients, such as sublimale, vilriolic acidi iic, thore ii
no danger of destroying the hair ; and if tlie Krst blistering does
not prove effectual, it may be repeated until die desired effi^ct is
produced.
Before a blister is applied, [he hatr should l>c closely eut olT> or
even shaved olT if the situation of the diseased pai'I will admit of its
being done without wounding the skin ; but good scissors or shears,
ifskilfuUv used, will answer the purpose sufficiently. If the sktu
isscurvy iim;iy be washed with flannel, soap, and warm water, aud
be miidc perfectly dry before the blister is applied. Blisters are
generally employed in the form of ointment, but on some occa-
sions they arc preferred of a thinner consistence, or in the form
of liniment, or even still thinner or more fluid, and are then
named liquid blisters. Formula;, or receipts for each of these,
arc subjomed. Though a variety of ingredients are generally
used in blisters, 1 believe thai the Cantharis, or Spanish fly, is
the best; and if not injured by long keeping, or adulterated, is
the only blistering ingredient required for common purposes.
Spanish flies should be finely powdered, and used while fiesh.
Sec SrANiHii I-'liks.
BLISTEK OIKTUENT.
No. 1. Hog's lard 4 ox.
Oil of turpentine I ox.
Powilcretl cantharides 1 OK. — Mix.
Moll the lard by a gradual h<-at; remove it from the fire, and
stir in the turponline; then add (he cantlmrHlos, and continue
stirring until it is cold.
No. 2. Hog'^ lard, or palm oil.. 12 oz.
Oil of Bays 4 ox.
Oil of turpentine 2 oz.
Powdered camphor • 2 ox.
Powdered cantharides 4 oz.
Tho two firat ingredients to be nielti^, then add the turpen-
tine, and afterwards the camphor <ind cuu liar idi.'«, and cuuiinuu
stirring till cold.
This will be found the best blister lor general purposi-n. The
camphor, as observed by Mr. Morton, greatly Ii^mcua (Ik- irrita-
tion. In blistering the legs an ounce lo an uuneu and a half of
tlte ointment for each leg is suflicient.
In «)mecases, as for enlargements, it is de»iruhlt lo use iodine
ointment with the above, hut it is belter to kc<'p them separate,
and mix titem when required.
rt 4
i.
MATERIA MKDICA
r
ACRTATE or CANTIIARIURS,
Cantliaridcs in powder I ox.
l>itiited acetic acid, or vinr/far ^ lb.
Macerate for fourteen dajrs, then strain.
TIKCTVRE OF CAMTUARIUES.
Powdered cantharides » Q ox.
Boilitig water 6 oi.
Mix. Wlien nearly cold, add —
Water of ammonia. 6 ojc
Maccrati; for a week, tluit strain.
This IK a very excellent and convenient form of liquid blister,
BB it may be H*e<\ alone or mixed with olive oil, with which it
fornii R liniment.
By uaing a sreater or leuer (]itantitv we may obtain alniosi
any «Beet we pleate, from a alight siimuUis to a &lronc blioier.
Cantharides may be also used as a liniment witli olive oil
alont*, or as a tincture with apirit) of wine, tiie latter (brming
I.i-cminjf'i essence.
HOLK AllMKNIC. A it-d day. containing a small pro-
portion of oxide of iron, somt-timea uM?d by farriera lut an aMrtiw
gent in diari'h<£a, or in bloody urine; but it certaiitly does iia
good in tliOM complaints. It is, however, servii-eablv mt ■»
astringent application to ulcers and wounds, conibinctl wjtli
|m-()«rccl chalk.
ItOKAX. — Kifi^ ni-boraii. Bi-liorniv of Soda. Tliii,
when dissolved in water, ta aiinietimes nppiie<l to iIh! mouthBof
yoniig liotxc* that are inflaine<l by cutting teeth; I liavc found,
liowcver, that alum, which is much c)iea|>LT, is equally efiivtua).
The Mtl Boracii, or Hatxry of IJorttx, U made by niixinf; Diic
drachm of bi-burate of soda, in powder, wiili oiiv ounce of
clai'itied honey.
BOX. The leave* of I>ox have been said to destroy wormi:
but, if really anlfietmhuie, it is certainly too wcok lo dcsene our
attention. It may be given with the bone's corn. It is said lo
have a pnrgative quality.
URAN. An usi-fnl article of diet for sick honoe, end a pre-
parative for ptn-gn[ive medicine or physic, as it is coninionl]'
termed. (See CATiiARTtts.) Hian should bi^ cbown that is
sweet, and fi-ee fromuny musty smrll, which it genendlyacqiiire*
by keeping, i>»i>eci«ily in damp places. There is a Hupertor kiiiJ
of liraii termed |>(>llan), which is sometimes to Ik' preterrwl ; tbni
is, when a liulu more niilrinient is wunti'<] in the makh Hiun
common brfui will nflbrd; but, as a medicinal masli, oominou
AKD PHAlIMACOPtBIA. 44l
bran is perhaps preferable. Bran mashes are made liy puuriiif;
boiling water on bran, and letting it stand in a pail until suffi-
cieniljr cool.
Bran Water, or White Water, is made in llic some manner, uxiiig
only a larger proportion of watei'. Bran is of an opcnin;^ quii-
lily •) and therefore a proper diet for horses thai Iiavt- but liiile
exercise ; it may be oecosionaUy mixed with oata or split iK-iin^.
]lran, with Unseed powder or oatmeal, maki>s a good poiiliicc.
See Poultice and Masses.
nitlCKS, OIL OF. An old absurd preparation made from
a mixture of brick-dust and olive oil, used formerly in strains.
Barbadoes tar dissolved in oil of turpentine is generally sold a»
sucli wben it is inouired for.
BKIMSTONE. See SuLPnua.
BURDOCK, — Bardaiia. .\ common plant known by iu
burs. Tile leaves are said to be diuretic, and are employed in
making the green elder ointment, or Ponipillion {Uwjf. Po/mUuin),
so much used by farriers.
BURGUNDY PITCH. — Jhirtis Resim. The inspis*at(>d
juice of the Norway *pruce-fir: it soniewliat i-esembles yellow
resin, but is less brittle and transparent. What we commonly
meet with in the shops appears to be an artiricial composition.
BmyHmljfpitch in ohen u.h^ in making Maryland itrcnglhening
plaatprs; also in nome uf their oitiiRumis.
BUTI'KU OK ANTIMONY, or, according to iho I^ndon
Dispensatory, Muriate of Antimony — Anlimtmii Micriai. ■( A
dark -col ourvtl li(|uid, iiPH^-ssing strong c.tti^tic powers, and com-
posed of antimony and inuriatiti itcid.
It has been highly spoken of as a remedy fur quittors and
canker, and other ulcersof asimihir kind: it is certainly a strong
caustic, and may be employed in cases where such applications
are rt^uired.
'riH'reissouietiiing pivuHar however in this caustic; which i«,
that by coming into cnntuci with a moi»i part, it is immediately
docompoiKHi; so that when appiii-d to ulcers its action is of very
short duration.
CABALLINE or FETID ALOES. This specic-s is dis-
lingiiished from the Socoirine and l)nrbadoi'.'< or Hepatic Aloes
by iti rank offensive smell, of whii^h, when prepared in the most
careful manner, it cannot be divested. It is siipjiosed to be the
lains after tlie Barbadoes extract has been obtained.
0T
' The alijcht cAllinrtic propcrlj' of bran ii mipponcd In be owing to llie
aitinll «nidoui pMikln it rc<civ« frum the initl-sioiic, wliicli thua ncu ntMho-
nirallr in (timulBling tlic iiilctliiirH. TIk irregiilarily of ibu bran itacif nay,
howwer. ucl ii> tlie same way. — Ed.
f "nc new iiftiiK' for this |)rv|iRraiion is 6Mqui>chlori>lc of nntinionj. It i«
a conTmicnt miMic, IM it iinnicdiaivljchnngn* ihecolourofcho prt to which
H h appfied. — Ew.
HATSSIA MERICA
CAJEPUT OIL, or CAJUPUTl Oil OgvptOi Olfm^
The trve wtwiicc ihis oil i« obtained » a luittre of the Moluoei
islanits. It is a medicine of liiglily Miuiuiaunc properti^ and
. poBKaaes a rrafn-aiti, nf^reeable anml, ti»t unlike a inixiuncor
■ eampliDr and oil oi' turpenuiie. If tlropjM-d on water it imtii(>-
diately dtfTiiM^ ilw-lfoviT iu iiir&ce ami quickly i-vuporatcs, and
tliis is one It-st of lit {>uri(y. It a frcqiimlly adulterated with
oil of turpcntiitc, and in ihix ca»e will not, like other volatile oils,
be found soliiblv in alcohol. '\'\m propt^ttn of this oil arc conti-
dirrvd to be stiniiitani, antiR|>a»nodic, and diaphoretic internall?;
but in vcteriiiarj' nicdicine it i* mnrf L-Miiinmnly employed aa an
embrocation in i-liionic ca»ra of rlicuinaiic pains, old strains, &c.
It may be used alone or diluted with olive oil. A mixtart of
oil of turpentine, camphor, und oil of ruwmary is a good subati-
lute for it.
C.\LAM[NK. — CarhoMu Zitiei Impurnt. Impure Carbonalr
of Zinc. An ore of nine, which, when [wwderrd, retemblcf ■
white earth inclining to a re<l colour. 1 1 is employed for tlw
purpose of drying or healing ulci-r> which dischurfre a thin acri-
moiiiou* matter: it is alto mixed with hog's lard, oil, and wbx,
so as to form un ointment, which is uso) (or iJiu same purposes.
Tliia ointm<iit, or cerate, i> the celebrated Turne/*/ Cerate.
CALCINATION. The operation of submitting any sub-
' stance lo the itction of tire for a considereble linie, in order Id
tU-privc it of its aqnt^ons ninl volatile particles.
CALCINED MAONESIA. — jVnvnnui. fti this prep*-
ration the carbonate of magnesia is deprived of its add and
water, ll is used for the same purpoees as t])e carbonate of ms^
nesia, but ie preferable lo it in cases accon>p3iiied hy gmi
flatuiciKe or acidity of the stomach (as in t)R< a^cction kiiuuii by
the name of blasting), because it contains more magnesia ins
given bulk, and, being deprived of its acid, iieiiiralifres tlie acid
it meets in the stomach and bowels, without the extrieatton of
gas, which, if it occurs, obviously cannot fwl lo prove hurt&l
where there is a tendency to flatulence Tlie dose nuiy rary
from half an ounci' lo four ounces, according to tho eHeol
pet[uir(-d lo be produced.
CAl.OMKI.. — Ilyiirar^ri Suh-muriat. Stib-niurlate of
Mercury. Ni-w name, Chloride or Proto>chloride of MeTepiy>
Tilts \* the most useful of the mercurial preparations. Whtti
prepar<-<l it t* a fine white powder, ratlter inclining to yeJIow.iiiid
Tery poiulerouK, Jt is the most efficacious anJtielniinlk v/v an
'•equainted with (see Antuklmihtics), and an excellent allmt-
tiff. When a brisk purgative is wanted, calomel may tK-ii<kleil
lo the cuinmun phytic, wliich is composed chiefly of aloe*.
Though calomel possesses iliesc useful qualities. It must beginn
H'l'ih caution, and its cffecU carefully watdied ; as ii KHtwtimf*
m^
W
AND MIARMACUrtEIA. 444)
Bcte very violently aiid unexpectedly on the stoniacli and bowels,
and induces a ilangeroui' degree of we«kmris. Salivation is some-
Umn the effect of calomel when given daily as an nlleralive, or
as a remedy for farcy oi- mange; ilie moiiilt becoming so sore,
and tlic tongue no swollen, as to prevent the liorsi-'s feeding.
When these accidents occur, tJie meilicine sbonld be discon-
linitc<l a short time, and tlie liorw- allowi-d to thiiiU plentifully of
water-grtiel, linseed infimon, or any oilier mitcilugnioua drink.
Wlien the bowels are iiffecied by it, opium ts the best remedy,
slionid arrow-root grncl or wheat flour gruel . prove ineffec-
tual. In some ciuk-k, where it hax produced great irritaiioti
about the amu or bladder, opiinn idiouid be given in the form
ofglyster. {See Gi-ysters.) If the mouth bt-conKW verv soi-c^
let it be washed wiili a solution of alum by means ufn syrmge.
Whenever calomel i» given, the home must be kept warm,
drink warm water, atid have regular exercise. When calomel is
given as an anthelmintic, or as a purgative, tlic dose is from one
to two drQchms; as aii alterative, from /iftet.'n grains to half a
drachm. Calomel, combined with diuretics, increa:«es their action
upon the kidneys, and, when joined with sudorifies, augments
leir diaphoretic ell<-ct». •
COLUMBA HOOT. — Columha liadh. Agood tonic and
slomacliic, generally joined with an aromatic and sometimes with
rhubarb. The dose about (wo or llirce drnehma.
CAMOMILE. — .liillifmii: A bitter herb, the flowers of
which are employed in fumenlations. No ottier use is made of
camomile in veterinary pracliee.
CAMPHOR. — Camphora, There are two species of cam-
phor, the one produced by a spiries of laurel, which is a native
of North America, China, and Japan ; the otiier found in mas««
in the trunk of a tree which grows principally ou the uorth-
trestem coast of Sumatm. It wiis fonnerly purified by the
Venetians and Dutch, but this process it now undergoes toavery
considerable extent in this country.
Campkor is a medicine of considerable efficacy in the diseases
of horses, though scarcely known to farriers as an intcrniLl
remedy. It is a powerful luircotic, sedative, and nnlltipasmoilic,
and is often employed in fevers. When joineii with nitre, it
gives speedy relU-l in sitppresiion of urine, or difiicully in sluliusj ;
except when it arises from inflammation of the kidney^;, but in
the horse this complaint is gi-nerally cau»ed by distended
l>owi<ls.
Camphnr is a good remedy in flatuleiu colic, or gripe*, |iarti-
larlv if joined wiili oil of juniper or other canninalives. (See
It ii given in aunt div.aii-i ftf Ihi- liver, iis irritatin); projicilif* b<-iii|i
ganrdcd ngainai bv dieaitditionoroiiiiim, whiclicoiiibliiulion li«ii l>ccn hIm) iuI-
■ninbtereu in influniiniition ul' the IhivcIk. — Ed.
w-
444
MATERIA BIEDICA
CARMtSATives.) It has brai rcconiiimidetl iiUo in lodcwUjiw
niixi-^l with opium. 11ie dose la frotii one (<> two ilradinu;
tlioiigli it miij- be given, 1 belie>-e, lo a grcntpr 4-xtrnt witlioai
tliin^tT. Tlie dusc I eu)ploy is one dneliiii and • hulf^ or two
dmciims.
As ail external remedy, camttkttr is mtKli ute«l ; it is gencnOy
dissolved in spirit of wine, oil of turpentine, or common oil, u
as to form emurocaiions for straiiiii, liniijies, bard swelling &e.
.jSoap is often added to those solultotia, and sometimrs oil tt
iTosemary. See ICmbiiocations and AxTisPASMot>icif.
I Mr. Morton reeamii>enda camphor as an in^n-<liont in bliitrr*
to altny the irritation of caniltarides. lit pulverising it, it ii
necessary to add a small portion of spirits of wine.
CANELLA. Canella Dark. This tree is a nalire of tlie
West Indies. The odour of the bark when fn,-«h broken is
aromatic* and its medicinal projiertifn are siimuhtiit and tonic
It forms a good stomachic in combination with coluiiibii, j^i-iiiino,
rliulxtrb, &c. The Ptileis aloes aim catteUA, viilf^rly called
Hicra J'iera, is made by powderinr separately one poui>d of
liepatic aloes, and tliree ounces of white canella, and tlirn
mixing tliem. The dose is from two drachms to half an ounce
or more.
CANTIIARIS. Cantharides. Blistering or Spanish Hy.
Tlieae insecu are found adhering to trees of different kind) in
the south of Europe.
CtiHl/iarides are so very acrimonious, tlial they inflajiM* and ex-
corialc the nkin ; and hence raise a more perfect blister ituin atiy
oiher Kubsiance : this property renders tiioiii extremv-ly useful in
velerinary practice, in which a good biisttr i* the most imparunt
of nil cxivi'iial reinedit-s. C'aHthaniU/O'huM he finely pow-dered;
but jireviousiy to this operation they should l>e sifted, that they
may be freed from a great deal of dust and useless mutter, wliuji
we ({(■iicrally find with them. WIkhi powdered they ittoy b^
eirlier formed into an ointment, a liniment, or a spiriiuous tinc-
ture; hut the former is the liest form, and most commonly utrcl.
(Sec Blisters.) " Canlharutft arc imparled from Sicily and
Astracan, in casks and small chests. 'ilie best are of a Uvi '
fresh colour, a small siee, and not mouldy, nor mixed with i
McloWntha vitit, an insect resembling tliem in some degree, but
poMcniug no vesical ing property. It may be disiinguiiilted by
lis fiirm, wliicli ix more GC]uare than that ol' the S[ian)sh fly, and
by its black feel. If .Spanish flies have been properly dried, and
kept in n well-slopped glass bottle, they retain tlieir acrimony,
and n<iiiain uncliangi'd a great length of tiim>; hut sometimrc
they ai'c aitacke<l by a small worm, which, however, feeds on thf
inactive part only of the fly, reducing it to a powder tJuit still
m
AND FHAllMACUrCEIA. 445
possesses the active quality of (he entire insecL They mon
puliify when kept in a dump place, and llierefore tilioiild bo
occasionally spread out to the air." — Thomp$on'i I^milim Dif
I'msatort).
Tincture of cantharidee is sometimes };iven internally in
human medicine, and has been prescribed for horM4 in incoiili-
nence of urine. Its principal elTect is suppo&ed id be upon the
neck oflhe bladder. When incontinence of uritie is produced
by over-dislenaion of ilic bladder, however, drawing off the urine
for a fi-w times, and not allowinj; that viscus to retain luiy gi-eat
accumulation of urine, may. aitd indeed generally will, restore
the loite of llie bladder without having recourse to cantharidcs.
Seven grains of powdered caiitharides have been prescribed by
Mr. Ilracy Clark in a tonic drench. • An over dose oi ihis
medicine will produce strangury and bloody urine, to couniemct
which demulcents, as decoction of marsh -mallows, iiifuEiion of
linseed with gum Arabic, iic, are the most efficacious remediet.
CAPIVY. See Balsam of Copaiba.
CAPSICUM. Cayenne Pepper, This plant is found both
in ilie East and Weal Indies. Its medicinal properties are those;
of a strong stimulant, wiihout producing any narcotic eifixls.
Tlie pod, «hen powdered, forms ('tii/ciutf pfj'fxr, which i."* a
powerful Htimuianl. I have been informed that it is used with
the bc«t efn.-ct iM it honte medicine in the East Indies; but could
not learn precisely what the complaints were in which it was
oinplovo<l, though 1 hi-iifv<t it was \he JtalulenI colic, or t/ri/ii-i.
It ltii« been siiccessfuliy givmi in caites of flatulency, weaknt-Kt of
the :itoniach, nnd indigestion, in dosi-s of a scruple or half u
drachm, joined with a licilo powdered aniseed, liquorice, and
syrup, so as to form a ball. .See ConniALS.
It sppcarH, however, lo be inferior to goo<i ginger « a cordial
and stimulant, though more pungent or acrimonious.
CARAWAY HEEDS. — Canii Smmn. The*e «ewU ar«
much UH-d in veterinary practice, as a conHal and ctuminatirre.
The essential oil, which contains all the virtues of the seed in a
concentrated state, is the most convenient for veterinary purposes,
the dose of which is from half a drnrhm to a drachm : it may bo
mixi'd either with ale, milk, or water, into a drench; or formed
into a ball with liquoiice powder, ging\.'r, and honey. When the
seeds ate made useof they should be powdeiTci, but never boile*!
in any liquid, according to the practice of farriers, as their
virtues are tticreby in a great nicasui'e evaporated: nor should
• It Ims been more generutly intruJuccJ by Mr.Viiic« m a remedy Tur
glanders, (uTcy, hikI Biianfircn. It it ccrtninly o vnlunble tnnic and mtnmBclii(-,
anil tany be pven n* i> powilrr wiih the foml, rombinr<l wiili suIpUolo i>r iniii
and i>v(Gtable tonic*. In lltU form I have TouniJ it |>ron)ul« condition <onal-
dcrably.— Ed.
MATERIA UEDICA
iber tw parehmJ in powder ; for liy being kept in llint form,
ibcir «5B«uiil oil ii fcruoally ili>&i|iate(l.
In Thatwer fona it may t>e uied, taraieay a cerUunly bq
' BseAl) evnlial Mid carmtMotiet, The dose of the ieeti it ahoal an
I mocr : to wh>^ dm; be added a druchm or two of powdcrrd
iMtngvr. It may be utcfvX to olM-rvf, that from twenty lo tliiny
Idrapa of ml of earamjf are an tiM-ritl ndilition loulut-)), in making
I ■ piu^tivB ball ; or, m U it coniiitoiilv t«-rmcd, n ihtv offAyik.
I Sm CoaoijLLSi CAHMniATivcs, and CAiiiARTtot.
I Tboof^t the CMmtial oil iatbentott convenient form for ftn'otf
liBumiray«, it ti not pn-ha|M *o ftmiefut to tlie itomacii, or IrMy
I Id pfoducr so f^radual or durable n ilimulu* at tlio rtwraf/y pon-
tdcnd «red& Catmway*. iltou^K in)|H>wilered« loac iniicli of du-ir
I power by hm^ keeping, c^ix^ially in dump place*. Wlieii ibt
I rsapntial oil u employt^t, tliut which i* pure »lioul(I Ih- chosejii u
' it is oncn adulliTnlitl wiUi spirit* oTKiiH'. 'I'liv best manner dT
mixing the oil tt to rub it in a monar with tiigur and tiviiclri
aitd to ndd the ak' or water gradually. Or it mny be mixed in
ttn- pniponion of one port of the oil to ih«x- of spirit of wiiwv
and kept aa an CMrnn- of caraway : lhi», wlH-n mixt-d wiih ulcof
wntrr, will be more tmiformly dilfuscd through the liquor Uioji
the oil itUmv, which will initrtcdiately float oil the aurlace.
CAKBON. Charcoal. Carha Ligni. Heccntly prepond
ebarcoal ii aii aniUeptic, and muy be made into r poultice wiih
linM'ed nival, aii<) nppli<'d to foul, oifnuive ulccrs, for tlie purjxM
of correctinn tluir fwtur.
CAKBONATES. Combinations of alkalies, eartliii, or inc-
tallic oxides, with carbonic acid, bucIi at caibonate uf pobuli,
carbonate of lime, carbonate of lead, &e. {See Pota:»ii, Limk,
Lkao, f^c.) 'fbe carbonates always preserve their idkjdinc pro*
periirs in tome decree, and are decompoeed by all ilie add))
forming It brisk and colourless eflrervnoeaoe>
CAKHONIC ACIU GAS, is tranapftreni, coloMrlew, widi-
04it any odour, irreapirabic and iticapable of supporting combu»>
lion. In n»e<lical practice this air has been employed, on account
of ilt antiufptir <]uidiiy, in foul and fcetid ulcere, or in gangrcnoiu
w<niiKl)'.* It i» gt-nerally applied by meaiis of a iermiittJng
(Mullice, competed of oatmeal and yeosL Ttiia poultice liu
bix'tt found ix-rvice.tbtc in that disease of the hors<?'>i hv<-l> lernioJ
grenKS generally correcting the oHieniive sukJI which altendt ii.
I CAilDAMOM SKICDS.— (ii«iuwo«; Sotjjw. ThepUnt
from whtcl) these seed* arc obtained w a native of India. Tfacn
are two sorts of cardainiims, the greater iind ksfitr .- tttc latter an
I commonly sold in ilieir *lnl!* or {kkIk, from which tlH-y are easily
[fixed: ihcsc arc pivft-rr^'d in nK-dical prnclico, probably on a^
* It hi» been ap|t1>c<l by **,y of (timiipition to the tik«rs of the aMtrib in
^ndeiH with good cHvci. — En.
AND FUAnHACOPcriA. 447
count of iheir more gi'steful smell and Uiiie, bii[ tlie larger wrt,
wliicli are )^n«rall^ termed i/nihts of paradise (see QnAiNs or
Paradise), are )>vlter lor veterinury tiur^oses, iK'liig a stronger
HCtmultint, and niurli (.'Iit-'aper. The lesser cardumums mnke au
(•xoi-ileiit eordial, and are posseted of coiisidt.-rnbte ^Ireiigili.
The dose \* from one to two or three drachms.
CARMINATIVES. Medicines that correct flatuleiicy in
the alomadi und bowels. The rii^sorder lor wluch carminatives
are emploved is numeil JUifulcnt or xjjatmtHiic colic, also gripet
iUtdJ'rH. This disease Iri'Cjiiently happenn lo horses, and from
the nature of it not beiny understood, often proves fatal.
Wcconsianlly hear of horses dying of inflammiition of the boncls)
and this is really the esse, but the inflammation is produced by
the flatulent colic. When str or wind is generated in the horses
Moniocli it cunnol escape upwards as in man, and is prerenleil
from |>BSti»g in die oilier direction by a ^'<l1v(llar structure at the
part vriterc the small intestinew terminate; that is, in the caxiim
or large intestines, whicJi in the horse is very capacious. As ili«
wr accumulates it distends the stomach and small intestines, and
if tliey have not sufficient energy to overcome by tlieir contrac-
tile {wvrer the resislancc made by this valvular structure, inflam-
mation lakes place, and the animal dies. Carminative mcdiciiies
increase for a aliort time the vital power of the siomacli and small
intestines; put a stop to the process by wliicli air ia generated ;
excite them to more vigorous coDiractions ; and enable them to
overcome the obstacle above described, and expel the confined
air. It is in this way that carminatives cure the llatutenc colic.
Sometimes, however, citrminalives prove inelTecIual, not ol'ion
From a want of power in the medicine, but from a circumstance
that IS not sufficientlv attended to, that is, from an accumulation
of excrement in the large intestines. Tlie carminatives usually
employed are by far too strong; tliey often cure the disorder,
but always increase the tendent^y to it by impairing ilie tone of
the stomach. Lnr^e do>eji of turpentine and other essential oils
are injurious in ihiH way, also pei)pei' and other strong Ktiniulants.
CASHINATIVE MIXTURES.
"Hq. 1. Best Cognac brandy 4 to 6 oa.
Hot water ». 10 or 1:2 oz.
Mix for unedo»e.
No. 3. Anodyne carminative tincture 2 to 4 ok.
(I1ie receipt for this tincture will be found under tlie article
Anodyne:.)
Hot water S or 10 ox.
Mix.
44B
No.3. Tiociiirc of opium _ } lo 1 <». ■
Essence of pi-piwniiijal (set- Pepii:i- fl
I mikt) ». 1 dr. I
SVaicr » 10 or 12 ■». '
No.4. Oil of tuqx'iitine 4 oz. _
I LinMx-d oil • 4 oz, ■
Gruvl 10 or 13 oz.
Mr. Bfticy Clark Kcommencb above all otlwr renicdic* a
tincture orall8[Hec, made by difi^stiiijt oiie puum) or hruivcd alU
■jtice in t)ire« (juarts or proof spirit. Of this Ite f^ivu four ouiiotf
ill a litlle waler every hour until tlie horee is relievi*<l. li rnaj
not be superfluous to observe, that the strength of the carmiiMH
live ])n;»criplionB or receipts is according to ihc number oSx^^
and that the strengtli of the renKdy should rather bi' adapted u
the habits of the horse, tl»n to llie violence of the syinptonu. A
horse tltat has hod several attacks of the disease, and has taken
ihf violent doses commonly employed, may re<)iiin> iiumb(T4.|
especially if numbers 2 and 3. have been found int- (U-vtiiiil. It b
of great importance, however, to apply clvslers e[reclunlly> ami
other suboratnate remedies pointed out. Bleeding according I*
cirenmstances is likewise a matter of importance.
CAR HOTS. — Daud liadie^ Carrots are sometimes nsed
as an article of diet, aud may be ffiven, in moderuto quantity,
wiih great advantage, to horses that are thick-winded, btve
cotij;h», or are disposed lo inflammatory complaints, such M
fsreasf, inflainvd eyeii, Sec. 'I'hcy npiwar lo be easy of digestion,
and very nutritious. They are excclleiu food for young Uudu
but will not do lor lionfet tlint are hard worked. Carrots form
an excc-lli-iit diet for tick Iwrxiii, beiuf; cooling and ntitritioiA
and arc generally c«ten with avidity.
CASCAK1LI..A WMiK. — Oisfarilla: Corirx. This tn«^H
n native of the Bahama lalandh and is likewise found in JanHM^I
nud St. Domingo. I'tw bork has a fniffrant spicy odour, nad
emits when burning a smell like that of musk. It is sometinMS
joined with cinchona, Colombo, gentian, or other bitii-rx, and
sometimes given with cordials. According to Dr. I'aris, cincltonSi
cascarillo, and other medicines which contain lannin and ibe
gallic acid, or, in other words, which strike a blnck colour with
iron, are decom]>ote(l by liie sulphates. According to this Aoe-
trine, cascarilla wotild be what )>e terms an incompatible ingre-
dient with tlie sulphates of iron, of copjwr, and of zinc. Tlie
dose ofcascarilla is one, two, or three (Irachms in powder.
CASSIA a WIK. ^ Lauri Cttstia Cortex. The tree from
which ihh bark is obtained is a native of Malabar, Ceylou,
Suniutm, and Java, an<l has by some been accounted a varie^
of the cinnuition-lree, the odour of which it in some degrw re-
AMD PKARMACOPtSIA.
s«inblM. It IS sent to lliis cotmtry in Hiicks or quills; is of the
colour of cinnamon, anil, if broken, nppcurs to consist of two dis-
tinct rinds or barks, iltc inm-r of which is darker than the outer,
and possesses the flarotir of cinii»mun, tJiough a little more piin-
gcnl, whilst the outer has scarcely any taste whatt^ver. '1 hero
arc some fine pieces of mitia which m n«>arly resemble clnnamont
KS not In be ^^oitily diiXiiiguished from it, mid are frequently sold
for it ill the sho])?. For every veterinary purpose rawt/n i« equal
to cinnamon, |irovi<Ifd it is well chosen; sucii pnrls should be
•elected as have a pieasiuit, swectisii taste, siicceedi-d by one ex-
Ireim^ly hot and pungent : this is generally found in the tliinner
pieces, which are curled up tike cinnamon.
Cassia h a strong aromatic stimulant, and an efEcacions ingre*
dtent in cordial preparations. The dose is from one to two
dmchms. An esM^iitial oil is obtained from cassia, which l>eara
a high price, but is so excessively |x>werful, that two drops on a
lump of sugar wilt imparl a strong taste to halfa pint of water.
CASSIA BUDS. These nearly resemble cassia in their
taste and medical qualities, and may be used for the same
purposes.
CASTOR Oil.. — Olfum Hieiiii. Castor oil is obtained by
boiling, or by expression from the seeds of ihe ricinus or palma
Christi, a plant found in th« I'Jwt and Wot Indies, in Greece,
South Americftt Africa, and on the Rock of Gibraltar. The
former method wuk generally used till lately, and was perf<irmi.-<i
by lying up the secdii in a iNig, (having previously taken otT die
t»rk and hrni«cd liieni,] and i^uapt-nding the bag in boiling water
till all the oil was extracted and ro^e to the surface, when it was
skimmed olT; hut it is now more generally obtained by pressure
like that of almonds or olives. Tlie castor or ricinus seeds urc
a strong purgative. The best castor oil is made in England from
cold blanched seeds with the eye taken out. It is said that the
dark-coloured castor oil, brou'-ht from the West Indies, is
bleached or rendered colourless bv some process in this country,
and sold as cold-drawn castor od. Castor oil is an exn'llent
purgative, as it opens the bowels without producing griping or
irritation. It is therefore peculiarly suited to those disorders of
tlie intestinal tube which require laxatives. The dose is from
half a pint to a pint, or a pint and a half.
It has been a^erte<l that cantor vil is a good remedy for worms ;
but 1 Itave seen it given for this complaint without effect. It
has been suggested that eittier olive or linseed oil may be sub-
stituted for castor oil : pcrliaps they are inferior as laxatives, but
so macb cheaper that they ought to be fiiirly tried. See
Laxatives.
CATAPLASM. — Cataphtma. See Tol-ltici:.
CATECHU. Se* Acacia Catkchu.
o u
MATEBIA MEDICA
^XATHAHTICS. or PURGATIVES. Medicii>eidiu ^
purging, 'llie preparations employed for iIiib piir|>ow an c^|
monly termed physic. Previously to pliysickiii^ h Iiofk-, In
sliQuld be fed with bran inasl»c$ lor two or tliree duys, luid htva
motlerate but regular exercise, or be worked wiOi moderaiion.
He »hnuld lie allowed only a moderate quaniily of day, etpvcuily
if be Ikas a voracious appetite; and if inclined to eat liis litlrr bt
&liQuld be prevented bv a muzzle, or by being tied up to iliv raclt
in the day-time, or, what is still better, by liaving lii« litter re-
moved <lurinf{ the day, and by applying tlw miizisle at nigtit lAtr
Iw has eateii his allowance of bay. If m low condition mooic otil
may be mixed wiib tlw bran moshpsj but dght to ten poundsof
good hay aro a sufficient allowance for a day and night. Oi
morning witen the physic is given, nciilier hay nor niiulKV s!
be allowid, until two or thrct^' hours al^cr it liaa li«cn ukn.
Some praclilioncrs, liowcver, direct a small thin nuuJi of bnn
only to uc given about an hour after, for the purpose of diMolrii^
or mixing with the phyxk. It li a good plan to give a modcnie
quantity of mash about two houn before the physic is given, u
eoiiie hoi-sed refuM^ it altogetla^r sfliTwnr(l». If ihi» la not done
n little should be given about an Iwur after tbc physic, brfore
iiauu^ in crrtttcHl. 'Hiiy, however, is tmncccssary, thotigli luj^-
|K)»cd to render the iHTecl milder and more expv-ditious : but liui
tt not the cuse; physic alioiild t>e given fatting. During ilic tltr
the liorstf may have walking exercise for about half an hour, uk
once only, iinil lie fed with bmn mnthcs, and have the chill i^a
ofThis water. Grooms generally consider exercise uniwcnMlJ
or improper on ilic day the physic is given : and on the foUowing
day, when the nie^licinc grncrally operates, tlioy are npt to gi«>
loo much exercise. But as loon as the purging has taken place ia
a sufficient dtigrer^ which is generally the ntsc about die KUemoon
of the day after it ts taken, exercise is unnecessary or improprri
and should the purging continue or be found to be ffoing oti lb*
following morning, that is, on the morning of the third day. in-
cluding that on which the UKdicine wus given, it shouhl bu re-
»tr<iiiic<l by grtiel made of arrow-root or Itnc wheat flour, wiih
whicit the horse should be drenched if he refuse to drink it.
Siioutd the purging continue aAer this, about lialfan ouncot^
Itiicture of opium may be given with a honiful of gruel.
Horw« ROmetinics appear sick, nnd refuse their food aRn
taking physic, either during the afternoon or evening of ibeMiM
day, or lt>e following morning. This is ccnerully eau»ed bra
neglect of the pnrparation above directed, by tliv stomach being
loaded at the time the phyuc is pvcn, or by the lior>e fetdio;
improperly too soon afterwards; and not unfrotjiiently by llif
physic bemg too sirong. When this sickness is observed, 0>t
uanv should have walkmg exercise ; and if it be on tlie same da;
AND PiiAnuAi-opntu. 451
tJic )>tiy*ic it Inken, and t}ie imeuinexs be contidernblc^ lot a
cly«l«r be admiiiUtertrd ; nmliing more it Deot^anry- Should it
eontinue, however, tlw lolluvrjiig morning let him be Hfrain ex-
ercised, an<l have some wmter with tJie chill oil': aiid if the
purging does not conic on, aiid he aiipcnm lo iniikc fruitk'fis
efforts to dung, let i)ic clyster lie repeated, which, with a ri-pcti-
tion of tlie exerctue, will |ienera))y produce ihe <l<'»irpd rll'cct.
A horse should be olotlied and not exposed to rain or cold wind
during tlie o|)eraiIon ol' physic; and when its o[>era[ioti has
ceased, be should be gradually brought back lo his ujual diet
and work.
Gibson, Bracken, and other veterinary authore, have prvscriljed
jalap and cream of tartar in dieir purging balls, Ii ha^ been
proved, however, that jalap has but htile effect on the horse,
oven in a large dose (seo Jalap); and that cream of tartar,
which was supposed lo prevent griping, by correcting the acri-
mony of the aloes, ia absolutelv useless. 1 ho neutral salts, such
aa sulphate of soda, and sulplialc of magnesia (Glauber's and
Epmni salts), are sometimes employed by veterinary practitioners,
especially in France ; but the large dose required to nroduee a
purgative edcct (seldom less than I'i ox. or 1 lb.)i and the (llfH-
culty and trouble in giving iheni, prevent their being much u>ed
in this countrv. When a horse can he brotighl to drink n weak
solution of Epsom salts, suppose I Ik to a large pail full of
water, a diuretic effect is generally produced, and ilie dung ii
little softened ; but when purging is necessary, nothing of the
sort should be depended upon. Common salt is an excellent
cathartic for catlle, and BometimcG requires to be strengthened
by three or four drachms of aloes. The dose of common salt for
calde is tlie same a£ for the horse, that is, from four to six ounces
in one quart, or more, of whey or water. Catlisrtics are a most
important class of medicines: and of all cathartics Barbadoes
aloes is the beat. They improve dipcslion and chylification, by
cleansing the intestines and unloading the liver, and if the animal
is afterwards properly fed, will improve his «trength and condition
in a remarkable degree. Cathartics arc always useful when the
appetite and digestion arc bad, and ibis is known by a voracious
or depraved appetite, both for food and for water; rumblmg of
the bowels, and n frequent diwhai-gc of wind from iho anus.
This is the case in a remarkable degree with broken-winded
horses, and generally in such as have chronic cough, or are crib-
btters. Cathartics sliotdd not be given too strong or too fre-
anently, as they may thereby woaken intiead of strengthen the
igestive organs, unil produce the effect they were inti-ndcd to
remove. Cnihartics may b«- made with soap, in tltc following
niuiiner, and then, if given upon an empty stomach, they will be
carried off, and will not be dissolved until tliovget into the largu
oo a
m
lunuA
to be produced : iku ii,
. oMUer UiM may be lodgrd
in dn» ny ibcy nevrr prodom riduni
hm al«>ji opcTBtc wiibout pun Of
catvaktic mau-
Bitadoa tiem, pmnJiTcd 4 dr. to 7 dr.
Guif(cr •—..•...•«••••••••••>. ••••■••—— 1 dr.
">t^......>— .^j ■>>■>< Ml ■■■■*« >*<«^<t»««> 1 lira
I
Best the MMp, oil of dovm. and water together ia a mortar,
ao a» lo fafv a paste ; if ncerwaiy om nofe water. Tim bong
done, add tbo pewfanid aloci uid gbger, aitd beat tbe wlide
into a ball.
I have Men nocb faana dooe by Mraag do«a of phjrBCt ami
hate oAen Ibaad tbe »i«tial dotfi, even half an ounoe of alon
with ibe etber tagredienti, ptodnee an excellent e^Kl.
Other fenoDbe far eatbtftica have been given to fertoer edi-
tMin% bat tbnr diflrr only from tbe above in containing toon
other eaentiaf oil, Micb a> oil of eaimwaya or iuii>e>«eeda, and in
being made bj mean* of tjrrup; tome of them contained lUo
soda, but xMp is prefanble^ wtd the femuila 1 have oow gtrai
ia the hen tliat can be employed. When wanted aa an antb«l-
■niatic^ a dndun of oalotm-l huv be given ibe prt-ci-diitg nizbi.
or adtWd to tbe balL Stomactnc purgatim are made by addinK
rbubafb, cotombo, or caKSfilla to a unall do>e of aloes: but 1
am inclined to believe that wheuerer the state of the stomadi
and bowels a such as to require a cordial or warm eatharlic*
opium b the best cordial that can be employed for the purpose.
Stoowchiet may be given, if required, alter the operation of
tbe cathanic. (See broMACHics.) Horws are more nsitjr
purged in tbe mouliing season than at other times, particularlT
lo September. Al ih^ times the bowels are weak, and a smsD
dow should be given. Mr. Bracy Clark's method of mixing
■loa Cm* phj-^c is most eas)' : and if ginger atid some eveniili
oil are not nccetearj-, whtch he says is the case, his method nuv
be tltc bni; especially if ll>e physic is wanted to act only on tlie
lar^ bownU. Soan as well as soda and potash promotes tbe so-
lution of aloes, ana causes it to act on tlie small bowels, and
probably so<ii«tin»es on ll>e stomach also, as appears from the
uckness it »ometim(T« ii)cluces i>li«ii thus mixed. I1iis quicLnW
of solution, liowevcr, is certainly desirable when there ore worms
in iIh- small bowcU, and in cases wtiere a speedv operation is
diwable* 'JLlie method Mr. Clark recoromeuds, la to put wiili
AXD PUXIIHACOI'tEtA. 4{(3
any quantity- of aloes, broken into small pieces, one fifth part l>y
weight of trvacle. and keep the vessel containinf^ it hi Ixiiling
water, until the aloes are melted and incorporated with treacle.
It is necessary to stir (lie mixture well after it has been in the
boiling water a sliort time, and when perfectly melted and in-
corporated, Mr. Chirk directs it to he poured into paper moulds.
I liave found, however, that by pouring l)ie mixture upon a
marble slab or plate, previously greased with butter, it soon ac-
quires n proper consistence to be formed into balls.
[Th*; following formula u rccoinmendcd by Mr. Morton : —
Aloes in smalt pieces.. 8 parts.
Olive oil 1 part.
Treacle 0 [mru.
The aloes and oil to be melted together in a water bath, and
wbm removed from the fire the treacle is to bo added, and the
whole Rtirre<l together. When Cape aloes are usod Mr. Morton
withholds half the oil and substitutes water. 1 have been in the
habit of making the caihiirtic mass in a similar manner, but sub-
slituling one part of powdered ginger instead of an equal portiou
of oil and treacle, which I found to form a mass of letter con-
siatcnce and less likely to run. I have also added a few drachms
of powdered tartaric acid, the effect of which has been to assist
the union of the mass, and prevent it adhering to the fingers.
The Barbadoes extract is certainly more certain in its cfTecta
than the Cape, but the latter may be rcndc'red ecjually «> hy the
' addition of croton oil, nine drops of which added to nix drachm*
of Cnpc aloes, will render it of the »anie strength as an «qual
quantity of Barbadoes aloes. ■ — Ed.]
Under the head Drf.nthi^s will be found directions for
making liquid purgatives.
CAUSTICS are sulwu>nce« that burn or destroy paru to
whicli tlw-y are applied. The most powerful is the retl-not iron,
or actuai cautery, which is often employed in veterinary practice
I to remove spavins, &c. (See Fibing.) Many of the other
cautlica are [<o^e^ed of great strength, and speedily destroy
I ttMMe parts to which they are applied: such are the pure alkalies,
' pt>ttith, and toilti ; the nilphurie and nitrous acids, or a solution of
' filver, quicAsiha; or co/jfier, in nitrous acid. If a solid caustic is
wanted, nothing is more convenient ihun the tmiar caustic {nitrate
of nicer). The milder caustics are more frequently useful than
those we have mentioned; such as blue vitriol (atfptmte of topper),
red precipitate {nitrif. oxide of mercury), burnt alum, verdi-
gris, &c.
The strong cauiitics are employed to destroy unhenltliy or dis-
eaaed parts, such as warts and oiner excrescences, clean^ting foul
ulcers and sinuses, so as to bring them to a healthy state, and
L no 3 ^
4>4 MlTEBIl XSIIICA
cnnUe br ram sm^ app&aliau. Cundei may be dirided
inlet Iwiud and sriid. ftrcmp and nDd. The miki camda are
i>yi c^M ^scfaaroocs, and uv mwe omAiI than dw stronger
anf4ir«- whicli uv too noWnt in tfaetr aetion in msnjcun, nut
c>ftai ivquiiv to be dihited vidi vster, apiric, or unetuoua nb-
sODces. areoniiDc to tbe nanuv of die aee.
90LID CACiTICS, STBOITO.
No. ). Tbe led-bot iioo. See Fiuso.
Ntv iL Puiv potash with lime.
No. S. Nitiate of siliYT, or lunar eanatx^
No. 4. Ninaie of e(q>per.
MILD CALSncS) SOLID.
No. 1. Aeetaa of capper, or dktilled verdigris.
No. ^ Sulphate of copper, or Uae ritrk^
No. 3. Red nitrated quickulrer, red [ovcipitate, or nitric
oxide of mercniT.
No. 4. Burnt alom.
No. 5. Common TTrdigri&
BemarL — lite strong canstics are geienlly sold in a eon-
renient form fer application ; bat tbe mild require to be findj
powdered and sprinkled on the ulcer: they are BometJnies mixed
with digestive ointments to increase tbeir power.
STRONG CAl'STICa^ UQUID.
No. I. The sulphuric and nitrous acids, which are very powerful,
and must be used cautiously : they may be diluted with
different proportions of water, so as to be applicaUe to
maay purposes.
No. S. Nitrous acid • 1 os.
Quicksilrer , ^ os. *
Place thorn in a large gallipot, or open phial, and talce care to
avoid the noxious fumes which arise, ^^'llen tbe quicksilver it
perfecilv dissolved, and the mixture cold, it may be put into a
small phial and corked.
Rfmark. — This is a strong and efficacious caiutic ; it is •
certain remedv for tlie foot-rot in sheep, and often effectual in
canker of the liorse's foot, provided these complainu are propedy
managed in other respects. It is sometimes mixed with mdted
hog's lard to turm a strong detergent ointment, or diluted with
water.
• Red precipitate or nitric oiitie of mercurj- m*j be Rubstituted for qniii'
u'rcr.
AHO PHARMACOP(EIA. 453
No.d. Nitroua acid •.. 1 oz.
Ver(ligri§ ^ oz. — Mix.
This caustic is very little, if at all, inferior to the former, and
applicable to the same purposes.
No. 4. Muriate of antimony, or butter of antimony.
No. 5. Muriate of quicksilver, or sub-
limate 1 dr.
Muriatic acid 2 dr.
Remark. — This is a very powerful caustic, and always re-
quires dilution. Yellow arsenic, mixed with lime and grease,
or egyptiacum, or hog's lard, is sometimes used as a caustic to
destroy warts, or cure fistula or poll-evil.
MILD CAUSTICS, LIQUID.
No.l. Solution of blue vitriol.
No. 2. Any of the stronger caustics, except butter of anti-
mouy, diluted with an equal quantity, or more, of
water.
Mo. 3. Muriatic acid.
No. 4. Muriate of iron.
CAYENNE PEPPER: See Capsicum.
CERATE. — Ceratum. A term given to certain ointmenu
or salves, in which icax is an ingredienL It is necessary that
the oils or &t with which they are composed be perfectly fresh,
and preserved in this sute.
CERUSE. — Plumbi Suhcarhtmas. This is a carbonate, or
white oxide of lead, and is commonly called white lead. It is
a very strong astringent, and is sometimes used in ulceration
of the heels, when the discharge is thin and acrimonious.
It is generally made into an ointment with hog's lard and oil ;
but perhaps would be found more useful if used in the form of
a finepowder. (See Lead.)
CETACEUM. SpermacetL This is demulcent and emol-
lient, but is not used internally in veterinary practice. Its chief
aseis in the formation of ointments.
CHALK. — Creta. This is an antacid and absorbent. It
should be finely levigated, or prepared, as it is termed, before it
is administered internally. It may be given in diarrh(£a, com-
bined with opium and ginger, after the irritating matter has
been removed from the intestines by purgatives. Externally it
may be sprinkled upon sores which emit an excoriating dis-
charge, in order to preserve the adjacent parts from its effects.
The dose, internally, is from two drachms to several ounces.
(See Astringents.)
G u 4
K>f » .-<-r- .
CHXIC-I ■" — '.'.0-w 2<bml. a cfciwl ponltiee hn
n-s '— i..nmMwr»T |» m. BDOEaaK « ifo hcds wfaena&cted
-r-TQ mt^K. 'VlS t vv«^ Jg'-IMJfc. IB llnUIIM At oflrOnTe Bisdl
n UK Ttatrv n^^Mcs^Tinz ^t Web; k ksIki uefbl fiir diii
' — « t- ~ ^ >^ .kdks.'^ J MB II 1 1 vIhe^ sic nftened or
jiiu»;w^ n. t ailii ly &. jjenie Wa& lad iken ^i^ied to die
ts^ imn "HK CBK hbl jbmx. iiuns is Ae fam as • remedy bt
•m-jBapLs uu nu amigMLMLfc. irisiae na Mraim or hanl work,
TT II 3k m=i. a scmns ic sac aan. As sdob as the jiasta a
aaiifj^ -He 3«r: s .-j««=«i vxa Aon ki», and the bone aent
ACkaxo.
Vi. '. Y:!iluw rseoL _— — ».»...... 2 ox.
^u-ran^ fUES ..«.«.._«.. 4 oa.
Bvr^waaB sc ....«.»._ — i». — .» S ot.
Sn»~-^iax _..._ Soi>
S^ jsmi »_—....__....«.«..• 4 oc
S:. ^ V«law rrjmi -» _ llbu
C4M9-«aX — _~_—H> —■•-—••—•••- 8 OL
l.ciiiiiKm tamfccQiF »-.....••.•—.•. <!o&
Arssm^a coii; wwiler »..»...._... 4 ol
TV :hi^« £rs 4,:t s> b« nwlvd ro^edier, and thm the latter
» :o a« aitied. Tbe czlxsrc 3 » br conManthr stirred aatS
fu£ci<es--j tcld ^ bv apfii^^l: and if it prone too thick wben
coiil. :: nsaj Se soriMawi wtch « [i;de oil or laid.*
Fxrr^rs ^oieriZ* ciis dra;^>D's Uood (as it is coniiDonlf
call«ti'. trom as ioea tiat li h>s a itrragtbenii^ quality ; othen
TVKcaiaeod. bw^^ aroMiuc. Ic appears, howerer, that diargei
act as a baodaise ooly. comprcssii:^ ctjuaUj, and fer a ocmudei-
able time, tbe joints, tendoos. &c.*
CHEWING BALLS^ These «v composed of the wood of
the bay aad juniper ire«. ss&a&xdda, liver of antinioDy> and p^
litorr of Spain. The only modem writtf on Teterinaiy medi-
cine, who has advised the use <^ chewii^ balls, is Mr. Wilkin-
son, in his ofaserrstioas on catarrhal complaints.
ClNCHOX.\. See Bark.
• Tbcse cliu^ mmj be rendercJ more Mnnuhdag bj the ■lUhioD of ■
[ittle Mbtrrii^ omtment. — Ed.
f It is eaauamrj in rautr bunting (tables, at dte doae of the MSMn, U
apply to tbe legs of anj boises that are stale vbat ia called tbe metiJUliil
cnargc. It cooMta principollj of menMirial oJntment applied to the lap aod
bound on with linen bandages clowly eiDfaracing the k«: the; remain 00 fer
■ii weeks of two mgoths, and, on being removed, the legs are faund nnich
fiDcr. — £0.
AND PHA(IMA*Cnl><P.IA. 457
CINNABAR, or RED SULPHURET OF QUICK-
SILVER. (Xewnamc BISULF'IIURF.T OF MERCURY.)
A heavy mineral of a dark red coluiir, sotnetinu-« prepared arti-
{ 5eially. It b corapoeed of cjuicksUver and sulpliiir, called red
sulpburet of mercury, and has been employed la nn alterative
in obstinate coughs, and t)>icknea§ of vrtnd, tn dowG of half an
ounce daily. Cinnabar h the lea&t active of the mercurials.
CINNAMON. — Cimuimomuni. The cinnamon iree !b a
native of (be EaM. The bark is rolled into cylinders and ex-
ported in this state. This well-known spice is a powerful sti-
mulanl, and an excellent cordial: iu high price, howct-cr, pre-
vents its l>eing used much in cordial preparalioitx ; m> iliiit w-lien
good cassia can be piociired, it may be, on all occasions, siibsti-
tuled for it in veterinary practice (See Cassia). Oil of cinna-
mon is mndc by maccratini^ cinnamon in sea water for forty-
ei^ht hours, then distillinj; it with a gentle heat, and separating
the oil from the water with which it come* over.
CLOVES. — Cart/iip/iilli, A stimulant of con.tiderab)o
strength, but seldom employed in veterinary medicJni-, on ac-
count of its high price. The essential oil of cloves is Nonietimcs
used) in the dose of ten or twenty drops, in cordial preparntions,
or in purgative medicine, to prevent sickness or griping. It is
an excellent cordial.
CLYSTER or CLYSTER,— JTnffma. This ujieful remedy
is not employed as ol^en as it ought to be, and seldom pro]K*rly
or effectually. In flatulent colic it is essentially useliil ; and i(
i.t from this circumstance being too little known, or not attended
to, Uiitt flatulent colic sometimes terminates in inflammation of
tlie boweb, and death. (Sec Cakminativks.) In suppression or
retention of urine, or in difficulty of staling, a clyster is the best
remedy that can be employed. In sliort, llierc is scarcely a dis-
ease to which horses arc liable, lu which clvsicrs may not be ad-
vantageously used, either as & principal remedy, or as an
auxiliary to others. Tlic clyster pipe and bladder i« the only
eflectual apparatus I have seen. The piiic should be one inch
in bore, and fifteen inches in length.* The ([untitity of liquid
employed should be live or six qnnrts, an<l coiisixt only of warm
water or gruel, with half a pound of salt dissolved in it: or three
or four ounces of »cniia leaves may he put into Iwiling water
instead of the »all. Tlu-rc i« sometimes difliculty in iiitroihicing
tlie pipe, gcuc rally from hard excrement in the straight gut;
sometimes, however, from the bladder being distended with
urine. In such caxes, patience and care are necessary to ex-
hibit liic clyster effectually, and it may almost always be accom-
plished without raking or drawing out the hard excrement with
■ Tiiv spuuFalus iiivciiceil by Mr. licud U dcdilnil} llic bnt and laott eoa- ^_
venicDt mctiiixl of aJiiiiiiittirrini; iiiiectioDS. — En. ^^H
L J
■ne Jaaif : "iafr^ s- -mt Airrnwi k^i^^. I* Am flpmtiaa* and
-vien i =7^03- tim s 3uc k kaod. k ■«■! be wptuyeJ h ■
siOECCiie XT M. =7^aer- Sec &AKn«.) TW ■■I|iIl enoUicDt
i-jsisc aunuc '» :3in. ^-sp- w wm water o^. Tlie uiodjm
:r nriao: =7^0:?' •bumf H ecBeowd of dn* cr four aaneei of
TJitrurv n ictnm s rw^r obts c^ grtl, ar warn waier. Oib-
a:c: cim* iuif ic :aars rt nod opMB (fanli«d in water, m t
artvix 7z k ~acn» s j:cud i&w. wiA lacceik Xuialiii^ d;*-
a»<( &r> rnncow^ :t ir::w rwc cr wfcm loar Cfwel vhh Rgir,
:r :r:«3 tLi.-!i-:ctf>i vja icar. Taoare of cpnini ii ■> neM
aa±;:j:(i ?: «i:a Kt^ok^ ^iyteiaDy n locked jaw. Whm
-KT-n^^r^ I.*? s leoitf: x^ •sec aa 1 ■ m aiiiiai of faea, they diookl
':« a-m n wkfws t: 'urifi coaodn. » » id dMrnd and iirilate
'Jae TK^sm. : hr: T 3^7 « bmbc h> be ROinet^ the ^nnti^
COLLYKICM. cr EVE WATER. Aav^nid pnpan-
•Jiic. i^cuifi ^' 3tf ?vv» » 9K«Ktl a iiiUjiiiaa iDoae id aiiat
seocnl. jse Iz. T^cericsrT pcaetxe are dv falbmng : ^
X.~. 1. Si^OAzt ct itx —.— 2 dr.
Sc^-ATcta^ ot'kad .-....„ 9} ir.
^iiiir „..^.^.... _._... I pint. • — Mix.
5o:i:M ibe ^t« bw a^A bsSameA, painfiil and imtaUe^ din
k-'tvc indT i>e rrrtWr dilcted vitb water, and dioDM be applied
:3 a u?>j fcue; tc: iL atter *ialeDt iofluDinanon, tbe ere re-
CJiiiB i-tZjCTixl 42d ioer^ aod tEfkn seem to be impeded mm a
nl^xed f=a:e ci* ^ T<eseeif of the en, it nnv be rendered
<s\>r£«r by the siidicoQ of eae or twn ooDcet of biandv, or an
eqjal q'da::::tT ot tbe T:Di>af liocnire of opinni.
Xix i Sulphate of zinc I dr.
Water ....„ 1 pinu
Dilute sulphuric acid ... 2 drops. ^— Mix.
Nol 3. Super-acetate of lead ... 4 acr.
Water 1 pinL
DUtilled vin^ar _ 2 oz. — Mix.
.\fier shaking tlie ingriedieRts together, so as tborougfalj to
incorporate them, filler them through blotting paper. Ibese
lotions are astringent^ and are useful in relaxations oftfaeTcaeli
of the conjunctii^.
Nitrate of silver I to 2 gr.
Distilled water I ox,
"Tlui is a rerv effectual stimulant, after the active inflam-
iiiation has ceased.
Tincture of digitalis and extract of belladonna have both
been applied to the eye with advantage.
AND PBAItHACOP(EIA. 459
Bv some, coUyria are divided into dry and liquid ; the dry are
powdered salt or rogar, blown into the eye by means of a quill ;
crude sal ammoniac (muriate of ammonia), white vitriol (sulphate
of zinc), powdered alum, &c
COLOMBO. — Columba Radix. A good stomachic bitter,
nrncb used in human medicine; and though rarely employed in
▼eterinary practice, seems to be worth a trial in cases of indiges-
tion and flatulent^. See Coluhba Root.
The dose is three or fonr dntchms or more : it would, perhaps,
be more effectual if joined with ginger or cassia. See Tonics
and Stomachics.
COPAIBA. See Balsam of Copaiba.
COPPER. — Cuprum. This metal is a component part of
blue vitriol {nt^haie of copper) and verdigris, two valuable pre-
parations. See Blue Vitriol and Verdioris.
COPPERAS.— 5«/;)A(w Ferri. A term formerly employed,
and still used in the arts, for sulphate of iron, or green vitriol,
which has also, when purified, been named salt of steel {sal
martu), and vitriolated iron.' It is a very useful tonic in doses
of Arom two to six drachms, and is thus given with vegetable
tonics to promote condition. Sulphate of zinc has also been
named white copperas, but more commonly white vitriol.
CORDIALS. There are no medicines more frequently
employed than cordials and diuretics, and none, perhaps, speak-
ing generally, that do more harm, though productive of tem-
porary good when judiciously employed. But with respect to
cordials, it is necessary to inquire what are the circumstances
which render them necessary, and then we shall soon learn that
it is immoderate work, and Imd management in regard to feed-
ing ; by the latter is meant the bad quality, as well as the im-
moderate quantity, of the hay that is often given. This is the
most prevailing error in feeding. Next to it is that of not
allowing a sufBcient quantity of (food oats, or not properly pro-
portioning the allowance to the horse's labour; and thirdly, by
giving too much at a time, and hindering digestion by putting
the horse to work immediately after feeding, or by feeding irre-
gularly, or not observing a proper method of distributing the
daily allowance of food. The use of cordials, on such occasions,
is to give temporary energy to the stomach and bowels, and
enable them to discharge their laborious duties. But how is
this done ? by an unnatural excitement of the nervous system.
The other circumstance which renders cordials necessary is
immoderate work, which is of a more serious nature than
improper feeding. It is a moral evil ; and, if duly reflected
upon, will, I trust, be seen in that light. When we consider
the form of the horse, it appears evident that he was intended
for the service of man ; and it is equally clear, in a moral light,
4«i9 XaTEXU TffTIWC*
t^ 5 ii dbr dETT ^ aBB to trrm Um villi kindneai^ and exact
z>: mm taboBzr'sTBB k^ tkn is cnHbtmt with his health.
Tiisiisa UB icxETioKT k bb exeme lor ^Difcing him on&irlj,
iKC- s 'ivrv- a=< a<iMifw io it ; far altlmish we may thneby
TTaxkr !-:= cafaAie' ibr a tiakp of wonetaful e9[CTtioii% jet we
^<w=^ ck Up. sod lunrapt Us ibridgfH period fif aernoe hj
Ixin^nc ts«c l^a vanosi djaemae^ It is often thooght that a
Ubml aJTvaac* of oae and famts, a warai stable, good groom-
inc. and a raciicraibue bed. will co«p«nsale tar exocBUTe bbonr:
nxii EttiMtf.^ L jLBi nn* cnsUe the amnal to do mwe thao be
otberwke cccjd : be die power of die stomach is limited, aod
so k thai of dk( Ewcoiar and nermos ajslran ; ao that^ if «e
taak* ao nnair desnad npod tboo, and it is answered, tbeir
powr b the fvooer exfaainaed. Aboot half a pint to a fniit of
good itnnE be«r. or ale. widi a Unle gii^n- giued into it, formi
an Bwtnl cmdiai. A wine-gbw (all of tmndy in half a pint of
Bater s «roti«er. and atar. on some oocawms, be more nsefnli
than beer: but 1 wish to impress on the reader, or ntber to
propcBe to him as a Hiligect for oinsideiatioD, that whenefer a
coidial appears oecessarr, we ihoold gire no more^ or tne of
no greater »trenstb, tbu is soSkient to {»oduee the desbed
ef&ct : and it wHJ be found, I think, th^ a modi better efiect
mar be prodoced by three or fbar small doon or weak cordiali
than by ginng onlj one lar^ dose.
COBDIAI&
So. 1 . From half a pint to a pint of the best old mild beer,
with a little f^ted ginger.
No. '2. Best Cogaac biaody 2 to 4 ox.
Warm vater 6 to 13 ox.
So. 3- Anodyne canninstire tincture. (See
ANitDTXES) ; 2 oz.
Water '. 6 or 6 ox.
No. 4. Allspice powdered 2to4dis.
Caraway seeds (fresh) powdered 4dr8.to loL
Treacle enou^ to form the ball.
No. 5. Ginger powdered 1 dr.
Allspice pondered 2 dr.
Caraway seeds powdered 4 dr.
The cordials Nos. 4. and 5. may be givni as a drench with a
little water; and if the cordials 1, 2, and 3. were sweetened
with treacle or sugar, lliey would be more palatable to the hotiet
and probably have a better effect. The above cordials arc at
well suited to cattle as to horses ; and though much stnmger
drenches are often given, these will he found, I think, of mm-
cient strength. When we consider tlie immense sixe of the
AND PHAKMACOPffilA. 461
nimen, or first stomach, of the cow, we may be led to think that
these animals really require the Herculanean doses often given,
and prescribed by writers on cattle medicine. But the internal
sumce of the rumen has a cuticular covering, and consequently
poBsessee but little, if any, sensibility to medicine; and it is
evident, from the structure and disposition of the passage by
which the four stomachs communicate with each other, as well
as from the structure and economy of the stomachs themselves,
that drenches pass quickly into the Jburth stomach, and that it is
through the excitement produced upon this stomach and upon
the brain, that the muscular coat of the rumen, or first stomach,
as well as the whole muscular system, is excited to more vigorous
action.
CORNU CERVI. See Hartshorn.
CORROSIVE SUBLIMATE. See Sublimate Corro-
sive.
CREAM OF TARTAR, — PoioMtB Bilartrat. See Tar-
tar.
CREASOTE. — Creaaoton. This substance is obtained by
the destructive distillation of vegetable matters ; hence it is found
in pyroxylic oil, tar, and wood, smoke giving to those substances
their antiseptic properties. Its preparation is exceedingly trou-
blesome and tedious.
ProperHet and Uses. — Creosote, when pure, is a colourless
fluid, oily, and of a peculiar odour, resembling smoked meat : it
has a hot pungent taste ; it acts powerfully on the animal system,
quickly destroying small animals. Internally given it is a sti-
mulant and tonic ; and externally, when Applied in an undiluted
state, it is a caustic ; otherwise it acts as a general excitant, and
an antiseptic It has also been resorted to as a styptic ; indeed,
its greatest use is as a topical remedy, being employed in the
form of a lotion, a liniment, or an ointment, to foul ulcers, such
as occur in farcy and glanders ; to cancerous sores, such as foot-
rot, canker, and thrushes; and some cubineous affections, as
herpes, mange, &c., also for the checking of caries, excessive
suppuration, and the repression of fungous granulations. It is
lik^se occasionally dropped into the eye in chronic ophthalmia,
when it operates as a counter irritant; and has been found
efiectual in removing nebulee. The inhalation of its vapour has
lessened the bronchial secretion ; and as glanders in the human
subject has yielded to it in the hands of Dr. EJIiotson, and, still
more recently, this formidable disease has been effectually com-
bated by Mr. Ions, V.S., in the case of his son, it seems to be
worthy of a trial for this affection in the horse, being both given
internally, and applied locally. The dose has not yet been as-
certained. I should think from ^ss to a drachm maybe diffused
in a weak mucilage of gum, and administered twice a day.
MBDICU
As a caustic, tiiiililutcd cn«M>te nuij be ap{ilreil by inmit of
a cnmers liair ppncil. Injected into (utulous wouikIi, or tfaoN
connected wUli cxruliation ofbonr, it quickl); inilu«e« a &vo<iiw
able cbang« iictii)^ in a twofold nmnner ; — Rnt, ta a powerful
etimulant : and, M-condly, u an untiaeptic. It may or maj not
be ditiiiwl with watt-r, wlit-ii uwd as a styjnic : pleogetiK of low
b«.-ing dippml into it, nnd nmtlied to llie bkeditig i>art witli i
coinpri-sa. lu action dq>cnds on iu power ofcoagiiEaiirtg alba-
nM-ii, and ouiilractintf tbe mouths of tl>e vessels. Aa a lotion to
indoUiit and f'ual ulcers, or when thrown up the nostrils (or
chronic itiflammalioii of iu lining membrane, or when ulcers
oxitt on it, IVotn ten to rifu^eti minims may be difTused in ow
ounce of wutvr; ami of the siuuc strength, it may be added lo t
[wultice wlien w(- wtih to destroy factor.
LiKiMKNTi'ii CstAsonCoMPOstTUH. — Cooipound Liniment
of Crtitsote.
Take of croasote 3 parts.
Oil of turpentine, and ulive oil ofouoh 4 port!.'
Mix together BO ns to form a liniment.
Tliis form ha* l)i?«n succcnfully employed at llw College in
wounds that haw- laken ati unhntlthv suupunttive inflatiimation,
and parlicularlv fi.ituloiis xuri». In lesions coiui<.-cird wiib
Opened synovial cavities, I sliotdd think it would aluo prove
beneficial.
UNuut^NTtiM CiiKASOTi. Ointment of Cren«ole.
Take of creosote 2 parts.
T^^ril , 8 partd.
Mix togcllier.
C«od for the same pur]>o«es a« (he compound liiiimeni of
creasotc. The fore^^ing acoouitl is extracted from Morion's
Mutual of Pharmiin/.
CUOiON SKKUS. — CrMM TujUi Semina. Croton is •
native of India, Cliiiui, and oilier places. Kvery part of d»
ptnnt appears to possess medictiuil properties; hut tlie Mvds
alone arc employed in Europe, 'i'he t«eds are about the sin of
a Kinall colTee bean, and aliound with a fixed acrid oil, whicli is
obtained by expression, constiiiilin)^ the croton oil of comincrco.
'i'he oil lia» a bright sUaw colour, a iaint odour, and a but ocriil
taste, creating an uneasy sensation in tlie throat. It ia Mlnble
in alcohol and ctlicr.
The oil is merely a vehicle for lite acrid principle which »
called tigfiH and crolonic acul, a portion of which rcnutiu in the
farina after the oil is extracted.
Mr.
map
1 believe that the veleriiiary profession is indebted lo
Field lur Uic introduction of this •gent M W) article uf ita
AND FBARMACOPtSIA. 463
teria medicft. He employs the farinaceous residue, and has
found five grains of it equivalent in action to one drachm of
aloes. Should the seed be given, about three grains, or perhaps
a little less, may be considered an equivalenL The expressed
oil has been said to create considerable irritation. Allowing this
to be the case, surely some corrective may be conjoined, and
thus a valuable agent be added to the list of veterinary thera-
peutics. The great value of croton ceruinly arises from the
capability of administering it when no other cathartic can be
^ven. It may be put into the animal's mash ; or, if it is made
loto a tincture, as suggested by Mr. Field, it may be mixed
vith his water.
A form for this is as follows : —
Tincture of croton.
Take of bruised croton seeds 1 oz.
Rectified spirit 16 oz.
Digest for seven days, and filter for use. Dose from half an
ounce to an ounce. This solution is also an active counter-irri-
tant. I am inclined to believe that croton requires nearly the
same time to excite the bowels that aloes do, from which it
differs in not creating so much nausea, and in producing a
greater liquidity of the dejections. It is therefore well suited
for anasarcous swellings. As a general cathartic, croton will
never supplant aloes, but a combination of the two may be found
of advantage.*
For catUe, the union of croton with the sulphate of magnesia
in doses from twenty to thirty grains of the seed is useful in ob-
stinate constipation.
The croton oil, if placed on the tongue of a horse, in quanti-
ties from twenty to forty drops, produces purging ; but in this way
it is apt to iuname the membrane of the mouth. — Morton's
Munuah
DAFFY'S ELIXIR. A popular quack medicine, often
given to horses as a remedy for flatulent colic, gripes, or fret,
which it sometimes cures, being composed of proof spirit, in
which senna, jalap, caraway seeds, and ginger have been in-
fused. It is by no meanfa an eligible medicine, and should never
be employed in this complaint. When the remedies prescribed
lor this disorder cannot be obtained, a pint of warm beer, witli
grated ginger, or a glass of gin or other spirit, will be found a
cheaper and a more effectual remedy than Daffy's Elixir ; or,
what is still more effectual, a pint of warm brandy and water;
* I am in the habit of combining croton oil with sloes with good effect. I
find four drop!) of the oil added to five drachms of Cape aloes render it equi-
valent to five drftchois of Barbadoea aloes. — Ed.
r. .M .• 3-1
•,f' ...I. ■ :ijr~
,':.j- J.-: . —
^.•^ .- - V. .. i -»al.
r, -,»• */". I.*:.- *;.:•- :.-: -i.-.r.t'- =ji7i» taametn^ mfMina: If
1 . ,^. j>^s. -.la.j- T.^:.^ 1 CJV3KIS. XT Bsmr mii^
*' .«^. ti#^.* luai jt«- ."i^m'Au^u' oiEs mn In* eddhiihcide
,.y^,». 1. .;'.— .'..• v'.Mrr- iiirfiK-.-ia. iai«e insa. pnwe?!^ ni—j*™^.
,,-. rf^j *^. -ft /A»-v.'.(Er lAfjuii » wi?c ■will szur a«T ae
*'.w> 'i -^7 drj'.i.jt ti^, ve KTtiMft -«aue inc. » Knnfr <£ :^^
I .*■ ^^//^■'/x. 'A f'*r .-(Jt.-. 'cATt-. 'fx rvgOKirw- Oi^wc ab onl-
»».-y/ »■ * •^,.:.y ■Jr'.'-_>-r*.V..'T r>s.-^f iii»t "v bud a enUS
*..*'■••/ '.^ i:.*>iri .r, (^...'j-.f. ir-a^L ■:Mt c;:wi. Jl* ifae object
lA •'■"•I'^.'f: « '/, <-iw.'. «4 .v.'.<ai «» fAw^iie cf uie Tinaes sf
hi'h.i, 1 .iii'ti^A-ii ■li.ii'ft-T ii^y iTAj fc*-:t k adrisaUe eitbmo
f"|.,'j iiif »i i/j (.'j-u'l'-r, i/f cu'. tiy:iD in UE^ poMKS. err U bnuK
I).' (It, Ih )'.'<- il*"; xf- (ul/ffiiib^l fj tLe praccEft of decocdoD.
(»»■".' r("'< '«* MAro.H-MALiXiws. — Deeochtm .-V&ta.
'Ink' "I 'Im-'l Htariti-trtali'jwii 6 ta.
ViaU, 7 lb.
Ilfril ilxwii I'l fiv iKdiri'li; Htniin the decoction, and, after the
liM ' 1 liitv ■tilt'^i'li-il, [idiir (id' (lie cWr liquor.
A>< iiKiiiti iiiiilliiw Midrr. coitliiin ■loiliins soluble in water but
Hill' ilii)',< I lliii >* iiii-i'''1y nil i-iiuillii-nt, which may be administend
III liilliti iiliiiii (if ilir liliuldcr orkiclnpyii; in irritation of the
iiiiii una iMi iriliritin- iil' l)ii< hIuiiiiu;Ii and bowels, or oi tlie ocsopW
Ifii" tiii'l hitclii'ti.
hiiiiiHMii III ( 'auki.^iii.i:, ciiMi'iitrNi), — Decoctum Anihemidu
( 'llllllHIMlHItt.
I 'iiiikiddIi' lliini'i't, (Iriitl I oz.
t'liiiiwiiy M-i'iK lii'iiimil Ij OZ.
iSD rUARMACOPCElA. 465
Ginger, bruised I^ oz.
Watei 1 qt.
Boil for ten or fifteen minutes ; a good stomachic drencli.
Decoctioh of Oak Bark. — DecocCum QuercAa.
Oak bark, bruised 2 oz.
Water 1 qt.
Boil gently for ten minutes ; a good vehicle for tonic medi-
cine.
Decoction ?ok Fomrntation. — Decodum pro Fomento.
This is made by boiling bay leaves, camomile flowers, worm-
wood, and southernwood, m a sufficient quantity of water.
Decoctiow of Poppy-Heads, — Decoctum Capsularum
Papaveris.
Tfala is made by boiling the dry capsules, or heads, of the
white poppy, without the seeds, and broken up in small parts,
in a sufficient quantity of water ; i. e. about two or three ounces
to a quart of water. This decoction is used as an anodyne fo-
mentation.
Decoction of Barley. — Decodum Hordei,
Barley water is made by boiling pearl barley in water. This
may be used in fevers, either alone, or as a vehicle for nitre, or
other medicina
Various other decoctions are occasionally employed, and some-
times preferred on account of tlieir cheapness, to more efficacious,
but more expensive, medicines; yet, it must be recollected, that
some vegetables, such as peppermint, penny-royal, &c., have
their useful properties dissipated by much boiling, and should
therefore be only simmered for a few minutes, or only infused,
as it is termed. (See Infusions.) It is a common practice
with cattle doctors to boil their drenches in ale, by which the
spirit of the ale, and sometimes llie essential parts of the other
ingredients are, in some degree, evaporated.
DECOMPOSITION is the separation of bodies which are
combined by chemical affinity, and can only be effected by the
agency of some substance or substances which have a stronger
affiniw for one or more of ihe constituents of the compound than
these have for each other.
DELIQUESCENCE. When any solid possesses so great
an attraction for water as to absorb from the atmosphere a
quantity sufficient to dissolve it, it is said to deliquesce. Those,
again, that part with their water of crystallization until ihey be-
come dry and fall into powder, arc said to effloresce.
DEMULCENTS. Medicines whicli have the power of di-
u H
4W
minishing the HToct of a4?rimonious or slimuUting stit
upon tlic Eon«iblr parl« of ilie bodv. There are two iiort*^
deii]ulc«nt8 : the onv^ po«»ceMiig an oily or mucitagirraui quulit}*,
sheatlips th« M-n»iblf pnrt, and tlirrcby clprends it from the tic-
tion of the Ktimidiu ; ihv oiIkt, bviiig n waivrv fluid, di1uii>;t tlie
slimiiliiK, and diminithv*, in « oiTliiiii (k-grtf, its power, 'they
nrc iin)>pcMi^l to not wlu-a tak<-ii iittcinully. not only tiy a <lirecC
apjilicniton to lliv »toini»cli and bowvie, but also by being ab-
■orbtxl into ihv L-irculalH>n, aitd through that medium on llie
lungs, kidneys, mid bladder. Among the fornivr may be
reckoned cum arahic, gam trngttcimtli.*aiid marslt- mallow, with
various oils; the latter consisia principally of water.
DKTEROKNTS. A term t-mploywi in turp-ry for ihoM
npit I i cations which have the power of clean.iing foLiI ulcers, au
inclucing a diEjiosilion to heal, 'lliey consist of cnuiltoi ori
cbaroticA, diluted or mixed vilh water, tinctuoiiti substane
essential oils, or abaorbeot powders.
DETCKGEKT POWDCRG.
No> 1. Blue vitriol (xulphale of copper)
finely [wwdered 1 oi.
Bole armenic Q dr. — Mix.
Mo.S. lied precipitate (nitric oxide of
mercury, or red nitrated quick-
silver) finely powdered 1 oc
Burnt alum 2 tir. — Mix.
No. 3. Cry»tallixc<l verdigris (acMatc of
copper) finely powck'rcd I ox.
OETEBHENT OIKTMENTS.
No. 1. Ointment of nitrated mercury.
No. 2. Yellow basilicum (oiiitnKDl of
yellow resin) 3 ox.
Melt, and add oil of turpentine . . 2 dr.
Blue vitriol, finely powueivd ^ txt, — Mix.
DIACHYLON. Litharge, or lead plaster, b made bv boil-
ing together olive oil niite parts, lithar^ five jMrts, water t«n>
parti, owr a »Iow flif , and constaiitly stirring, uniij the oil and
(he lithiifj^e unitf, and ncquirv the consistence of plaster, llie
water is intended to prevent hurtling or dbenlDurntion of the
plaster, and mu»t be rejtlaced an tt evaporates. Diachylon is an
ingredient in slicking plu-«ler, and chai;gr«, and a useful when
spread on leather for defending a tender piirt from pressure.
OIACODIAN or DIACODIUM. A syrwp made from a
decoction of the lie&da of white poppies, or more readily by dii-
AMD PHARHACOPfEIA. 467
•olvtng the extract of white poppiea in water, and Tonn-
ing it into a ayrup by the addition of a sufficient quantity of
DIALTHEA. Marsh-mallow'B Ointment. An ointment
made from marsh-maUow's root, fenugreek seeds, palm oil,
linseed oil, and resin. Sometimes lard and turpentine are
added.
DIAPHORETICS. Medicines that increase the natural
discharge by the skin; which, when they act in so considerable
a degree as to occasion sweating, are termed sudorifics.
It is extremely difficult to produce any visible effect upon the
horse's skin by means of medicine alone ; but when it is assisted
by proper exercise and warm clothing, we can generally give a
fiiie glossy appearance to the coat, though it is very difficult to
produce sensible perspiration, unless it be by violent exercise,
and immoderately warm clothing. The most effectual diapho-
retics in tile horse, are medicines of the hot stimulating kind,
combined with antimonial preparations and opium ; these,
however, cannot be employed with propriety in fevers, which
are generally an effect of internal inflammation ; they are useful
only when horses are hide-bound, have a rough dry coat, and
appear in a state of debility. The elfects of this class of medi-
cines are so very uncertain in the horse, and so rarely succeed
unless assisted by exercise, that it seems probable ihat exercise,
a proper diet, and good grooming, form the only effectual dia-
phoretics.
Emetic tartar and other preparations of antimony, Minde-
rerus's spirit, or water of acetate of ammonia, and camphor are
the diaphoretics which are employed in febrile complaints. See
Febrifuges. •
DIGESTIVES. Medicines which promote snppuration in
ulcers, and cause them to discharge a white healthy matter.
TTiis term is commonly applied to ointments and other prepara-
tions which improve the slate or condition of ulcers or sores,
and cause them to discharge good matter. Medicines that pro-
mote the digestion of food are named tonics, stomachics, and
cordials.
BIQESTIVE OINTMENT.
No. 1. Hog's lard and strained turpen-
tine, of each 4 oz.
Verdigris 1 oz. — Mix.
* Spirit of nitrous ether in doses of from one to two ounces is one of the
most cfTecIual and useful iliaphorelics, and will rreqiienily produce perspira-
tion. It is highly useful in inSammatory di»eiues when tnc surface and eK<
IreDuties feel cold ; it then rouKS the circulatiun. and enables a greater portiou
of blood to be token away. — Ed.
H U 2
4f)f) MATtRIA MEDICA
No. 2. Hof^a-lanl and Venice turpentine,
ofrDcli 4 OS.
Siil|>)>alc of coppcT (blue vitriol)
finely powdered 1 ox. — Mix.
No. 3. Ointment of yellow min 4 oz.
Oil of turpentine 1 oz.
Nitric oxide of mercury (red pre-
cipitate,) finely powdered 1 ox. — Mix.
DIGITALIS. See Foxolove.
DILUENTS. Weak li()uida employed as a common drink,
i^ucli 08 barley-water, bran-water, &c., lupposed to cool and di-
lute tlie blood in fevera, and inflammatory comptainta.
DISTILLATION. An operation by which, thVongfa Om
agency of beat, the fixed and volatile principles contained in
any body are •eparately obtained.
DIURETICS. Mfdieines that increase the secretion of
urine; an effect more readily produced in the horse than in the
human tiody. 'Hiere is a great variety of medicines that act
oi diuretics : the principal are, llie various kinds of turpendii^
balsam, soap, the fixed alkalies, nitre, &c.
Diuretics are much nsecl in veterinary practice, particnlarly
in diffused swellings ofilielegsor other parts, and grease: wbtn
given in moilerate doses, they may be continued for seveial
days; and a horse may work without danger during their (ite-
ration. The diuretic ultcrativc in our Pharmacopoeia is an ex-
cellent me<]icine for horses that are subject to swellings of the
legs, and in slight coses of grease; but in more violent cone-
plaints we must employ more active remedies, these being
adapted only to mild coses which do not prevent a horse fnxn
working. However paradoxical it may appear, there is truth in
the assertion that diuretics arc among the most useful, and like-
wise the most mischievous nicilicines, that are given to horsa
They are extremely useful in carrying olF the impurities and
Bimerfiuous serum from the blood, thereby producing the best
effects in many diseases.
Horses that have good appetites will take a diuretic in tite
fomi of powder with ilieir food, and this form should then be
preferred.
DIUHETIC POWDER.
Powdered resin and nitre, of each 4 dr.
Mix for one dose, and let it be repeated daily, until a suffi-
cient effect is produced.
DIURETIC BALL.
Hard soap and common turpen*
tine, of each 4 dr.
AND PHAKMAC0F(E1A. 469
Powdered caraway seeds enough to form the ball. Mix for
one dose.
CORDIAL DIURETIC BALL.
Hard soap and common turpen-
tine, of each 4 dr.
Ginger 1 dr.
Opium ^ dr.
Powdered caraways enough to form the hall.
Diuretics should not be kept till they become hard, as they
of^en are, but be given in rather a soft state, and recendy made.
They should also never be so given as to operate while a horee is
in work, as he may thereby be prevented from staling when he
bas occasion: from neglecting this precaution, and from their
frequent and immoderate use, arise those mischievous effects
before alluded to. The kidneys are oflen materially injured by
them, as well as the bladder.
DRAGON'S BLOOD. — Sanffuis Dracmis. A resinous
substance of a dark red colour, which, when pure, is entirely
soluble in spirits of wine. Dragon's blood was formerly em-
ployed as an astringent and styptic, in fluxes and inlernal bleed-
ings ; but modem practitioners scarcely ever use it. It is still
employed by farriers, in the complaint of homed cattle, which
ihey term red-water, or bloody urine, but without effect; nor is
there any disease of the horse in which it is likely to be useful.
DRASTIC. A term applied to those medicines that, by the
violence of their action, produce liquid purges. Their use is
particularly indicated in dropsy, in which disease, by determin-
ing a large quantity of the fluids of the body, to the intestinal
canal, and subsequently causing it to be voided, the symptoms
of this complaint are greatly mitigated. Diuretics are chiefly
used in dropsy, but when the kidneys, either from disease or
want of tone, do not act with sufficient vigour, drastic cathartics
are of the greatest utility.
DRAUGHTS. See Drench.
DRENCH. A medicine in a liquid form. This is an in-
convenient method of giving medicine to horses, some part of
the dose being generally wasted. It is preferable, however, on
many occasions, to every other form, on account of the medicine
acting in much leas time than in a solid form: in flatulent colic,
or gripes, for example, where the symptoms are extremely
urgent and alarming, a proper drench will soon relieve the ani-
m3, while a ball, unless sofl and very soluble, would not
produce any effect. Farriers commonly compose tlielr drenches
with ale, whatever the qualities of the other medicine may be,
which is often improper, since the properties of the liquid
H B 3
470
M.'t'lTIITA M«IHCA
rIiouM always corronond with the Tiniioi of the other in|;r«-
tlu-iil». Cordial drruAet, ihcrt-fon*, may witli jiropriely b# aade
wiili alp, but ihosc or a conirnry teiideiicy Bhould be mixed witli
grui'l or water.
The beat iiitjtnirm'iit for giving drendies t* the horn of an
the opening being cut obliquely in the form of a spouL
ox
Bottles are tomctiinet usml on an emergency to give drencbn;
but thvy arc attended witlt danger, and slwuld be bandied cau-
tioiKly. In giving a dreiicb, the Iwrse's tongue should beheld
with the left hand; and when the head is dutticieiitly elevatcdi
the nifilieiiie ia to l>e carefully |>ourcd into the throat, imme-
diately iKtiiig go the tongue, while il*e head is kept up until
the (Iri-iich ia swallowed. Drenchei are vorv addom given with
dexterity, and great part of the medicine is sometimes wasted.
Every groom should learn to give them with facility, and alwsji
keep a proiwr instrument in ilie stable. In giving a drench,
the head should not be kept w high as it generally is nor should
the ihroal be pressed or rubbed, us it often is, with a view to
make the horse swallow, as it is apt to excite coughing. In
severe colds or sirsnclcs, there is orten some degree of soreness
or inflammation of the throat, by which swnllowmg h rendend
difficult and painful. In such cases, no attempt should be mack
to give either a drench or a ball, as the complaint would be ti^
creaseil by it ; nnd if ut any time a horse happens to cough or
appear dtntrossed, while taking a drench, hin head sliould ba
immediately let down. Hot stimulating mt^^Ucines, or such at
are very nauseous, are better given in the form of balls than
drenches. Drenches should always be given with as much geiv
tleness aa posfible; the horn may generally be introduced with
caw, Tuerely by pressing down the tongue with the Angers of
the left han<l, instead of dragging it out, as is commonly done.
A small quantity only of the liquid should be given nt once;
about six or eight ounecfl, or even less, when tincture of opitim,
or any powerful medicine is given; and it is of importance to
be accurate in tlie dose, and not give either more or less Ihmi a
certain quanUly.*
In locKed-jaw, it is very difficult to give a drench, nnlcf* a
umall horn be kept for the purpose, and even tlten a good denl
of dexterity and perseverance are often ri'qnired to olftci it. In
some cases, the jaws ai-e so eoniplcidy closed, and tlie muccirs
of tkglutition so affected, that a drench cannot be given; and
* In pnng medicine, a flat nlnt boiili! with • loti^ neck U th« noM cm-
ventent niraiis ; llirrr i* much lent dnnffcr of tiaj being wacteJ llwil li/ ihr
line nfa liorii. nnil Ihare i> no fear of liie Iwlllc lirnking it cemiMa cant will
BltcnEioii K cKcrcitKl. For aJniiiiislciing gruel or aaflhiag of a thick cMi-
aislciK^, n liorn if iirefcnililc, or ■ ci>|^>er or tin tcnid ii^ijc lor llie put-
po«D. — Fm.
AND PHARMACOPCEIA. 471
tben the only method of conveying liquid medicine into the
body, is in the form of clyster. See Clysteh. *
Markfaam's drench for Anasarca, or general dropsy, consists
of a decoction of wormwood in ale, boiled down to two quarts,
and skimmed. In this, 1 oz. of Castile soap is to be dissolved;
and into this mixture, 6 drachms of powdered Grains of Paradise
(greater cardamom seeds), and a similar quantity of long pepper,
are to bestirred. The whole of this drench is to be given fast-
ing, and the horse to be clothed, and exercised until he sweats
and stales profusely, 'i'bis i^ a most powerful medicine.
CORDIAL DRENCH.
Good beer or ale i pint to a pint.
Ginger, powdered I dr.
Allspice, ditto 2 dr.
Caraways, ditto 3 dr.
Let the ginger, allspice, and caraways simmer for ten minutes
in a small quantity of the ale, and then add the rest. When it
is requisite to render this drench astringent, two drachms of
catechu may be added.
PURGATIVE DRENCH FOR CATTLE.
No. 1. Epsom salts, or common salt ... 6 oz. to 1 lb.
Warm gruel 1 quart.
Ginger I dr.
Magnesia, or carbonate of soda... 1 oz. — Mix.
No. 2. Castoroil 1 pint.
DRESSING. An operation of some importance in the
management of horses ; and consists in currying, brushing, and
wbping them, when kept in the stable. This is done, not
merely with a view of removing the dust that may be collected
on the coat, but to keep up a healthy degree of action in the
perspiratory vessels, or pores of the skin. When this is neg-
lected or improperly done, the perspirable matter hardens or
thickens, and remains about the roots of the hair, and has the
appearance of a whitish dust or small scales, which of^n cause
an itching, and make the skin feel dry, and the coat appear
coarse or wiry, instead of being soft and shining, as it is in a
horse that is properly dressed or groomed. Horses that are not
properly exercised have the more occasion for good dressing ;
ana the operation is more easily and more efTectually performed
when a horse has been previously exercised until he perspire
moderately. Notwithstanding the improvement which r^ular
and careful dressing makes in a horse's appearance, it is not
* Read's injecting spparatus will be found convenient in adminiatering
inedicine sod gruel in this disease. — Ed.
H H 4
MATERIA MKDICA
improbable tlml itto skin may be tltercby brought to a flegr^w of
delicacy or icji.iibilily wbicli is not oonsbtent with die empto}'-
nicnt for wliich the antmni is want^ and may render him verv
linbli' tw <li»i*i»»es. Ycl, on the other hand, il is to be considered
tluit the artificial manner in which horses are generally kept and
lied, may render the skin or i>ersp!raiory orf^an a much mors
e«sential emunctory tlian it would be were they kept and fed iu
a manner more conrormable to nature.
In India, our cavalry soldiers, instead of using r bru$li, ilreM
their hoi'ses with a coarse glove, made of the «anic nulerial at a
horge's iio«e-bR,^. This, I should think, altlKMigh not to |^<x»l at
a bruih, may be advantajfeously emuloyt'd for rubbing tin- U-^
The term drtttiny i« likewise itteti to denote any application
made to a wouixl or eort*.
EGYPT1ACU>L — Z.;«iM«rnrtiii MruffiuU Liniment of
Verdigris. A preiunitioi) made by boiling iog<'thi'r live ouncn
of powdered veitligri*, one pound of tioiH-y, and seven oiince» of
vinegar, until they are incorporated. This i« a good reaietl;
for thrushes or diiriued fro^
KLDKlt. — Sambuau. 'l'hi» tree \» commonly found in
England growing in h<-tl^e-rowi(. Some preparalioitt of elder
have cathartic qualities, but are not deserving of attention by
the Veterinarian. The chief aav of elder la to form ati oil, of a
greenish hue, and of little or no use; and an oiutinetit, which
serves the same purpose as hag's lard in the composition of
unguents. The oil is pre|>Ared from tlie Icnves, the ointnitDt
from the hlosjom of tlie treu. There is ahto a dittilled wnur
made from it, which is often employed in the cumposiiion of eye-
waters, but does not appear to po3f>fS« any medical qnidiii<'« that
do not rtisl in simple or distilled water.
ELECT ItlCITV. — Tlie operation of electricity is ]>erfornii'd
on the human being in those diirorders which require stimulant
applications, as in paralysis. It likewise roiues die action of
the absorbent system in a verr remarkable degree. And on
that account is sometimes emmoyed in cases of indolent tu-
mours. I am not aware that tins remedy has been adopie<i by
veterinary practitioners, but can see no objection to its emjjoy-
niunt.
KMHIIOCATION'S, — External applications in a liquid
form that art- rubb«-il on a diseased ]>art, as in strains and
indolent swellings, and as an auxiliary in the treatment of
interna] inllannnalion. Thev are of n stimulating nature, and
are greatly aisixied by frictfon. Of this kind are opodeldoc^
Map liniment, &c.
AND PIIARMACOPtKU. 470
MUfiTAItl) KMUKOCATION.
For inflammation of the liaifft.
Flour of muatard 4 oJt.
Liquid aniinoiiia I j ox.
Oil of lurpcniine 1 oz.
Water, a sufficient quaiitily to brine it to the coimMence
of cream. Flour of niu§iaril mixed into a thin \itMe
with water only is a powerful stimulant, and may be
employed with good effect in esses of internal inflani-
mation cither of the bowels or lungs.
Embrocations for hard indolent fumoun.
No. 1. Olive oil 4 ox.
Camphor 4 dr. — Mix.
No. 2. Mercurial ointtnent 'Jos.
Olive oil and camphor, of each.... 2 dr.
Embrocations of a more Giimulaiing kind are sometimes ein-
)>loyc(l in swellinga of the joints, old strains, or other local
affections, such as soap linicm-nt with liquid ammonia, olive ot)|
oil of turpentine, and liquid ummonia; but blistci-s in such cases
»re generally more offcciuftl.
Embrocations arc often improperly employed, as in recent '
strains, or inflamed tumours, and other coses where emollient or
cooling applications are required, llolli strains and bruises arc
at first Attended with a degree^ of inflammation proportionate to
die violence of the injury, and the susceptibility of the injured
part ; therefore tlu-y n-quire, »t fintt, »iicli treatment m i* cal-
culated to »nbdur iufliiiumHtion, that h, bleeding and purging
with a Huilublc diet, iuid, in stntina, n-il. The local nr topical
remrdin in the infliimmnlory iitafje are [HiulticeK; but tu ihexc
cases blecdinjjf and piirgliiy, immediately after their occurrence,
arc no e«teniiAl pan of tlie treatmenL
EMETICS. Medicines that excite vomiting. It is very
generally l)elieved that horses are incapable of vomiting : 1 have
met with one inataiice, however, where it occurred upouiaiteously,
and was kooii after succeeded by purging.
Medicines thai are considered as the most violent emetics in
tlie human system are generally inei't in the horse. A remark-
able example of this may be noticed in while vitriol [tulphate of
tine), of which a hor=e has taken twelve ounces at a doae, without
much effect being apjiarently produced. This experiment has rmt,
I iK-lieve. been repeated, and it is desirable that it never should
be; nor should any experiments of a similar Itind be made, as
no advantage can possibly result from them, while much pain
may be endured by ^le unfortunate animal who '\» subjected to
tl>em, unpercetved by the practitioner or bis assistaiils. U ww.
3
matrhia mxoica
Bss4?nc(] at ontr lime, titai roniilJng may be produced by imordfl
liellfborc under tlie skin. This experiment wu Mid to hw
belli nittd« Ri tlic Vi'Kn-inarjr Collt^^ of Copcnltogen, bul it
docs not np|>Fnr lo have itKCceded with other pnctiimiKTrs. S».-
lltiLt.tAtonr..
Id n wcirk on iiydroptiohia, by I)i'. It. Poanoii, of Coliifield,
nrnr HiritiiD^liam, in which ii<' HujyiMts tlte propriety of injcet-
iii)f nii^liciDal aubi^tancet into a vdii. whea exhibition by tlw
niotitii or fiindititient b impracticablet it ia asserted tliat " tliit ii
fn.si»ei)iiy practised uymn diacaaed borse* at tlie Vrtt-riiiary
Cfillcj^' of Copenhagen." Tliis, ]>prhapa, is ibe new method of
Irciiting lock(?d-jaw, hinted at bv Mr, .Scncli. and b worili a
trial, when me<tirine cannot be given by the mouili, and oMaie
clvslcrs have proved ineiTectual; and if, as thev staie. beltebore.
when applied uudor the akin, is absorbed, and causes sickness,
why may not a solution of opium be also atvorbed wben 8p])lied
in a similar manner? It is surely worth a trial in locked-jaw.
It must be remembered tliai, when a solution of any oiediciiiei
or any liquid whatever (except when blood is transfused fniiu
tbv veins of one animal into iliosc of attother), is Uirowii into tbe
TCina, it is f\nl necessary to take away a quantity of blood equal
to the medicine to be injected, ollKTwisc too grml a presuiro of
* the bruin will he the con8i.><]ueiK'c ; becauitc iIk' brain, reoeivii^
a large >u|>ply uf blood, ia of coune di*tendr<) ; and as it is con-
taiiunl in an unylddin^ bony caM^ pn-saure niiui be ihi- resul
and thi«, carried tu any great extent, will prvdiice every Kympti
of npoLilcxy. Iitocunuuilm and emetic tartar have iio emetic
power HI the liorae; and llioueh belicbora appi^rs to cxciio a
painful Kcnsution in ilie ktomacTi, it has not. even in the doao of
one ounce, cauM'd vomiling.
EMKTIC TAllTAK. — AHtimmivm Tartarizatum. New
name, rotaHsii^'lnrlraie of Antimony. A preparation of anti-
mony (ice Antimiinv) and cream of tartar (aw Acio, Takta-
BEOi'a). Thii ii n violent einelic in the human !tub}i>ct, even in
tlie quantity of one or two graim : but in more minute dotes i*
used OS a febrifuge.
In die hor»e ii is a very tuili- medicine, and u.iefnl in fevers : it it
generally given in doM>a of on*; or two drachiuH, which may be n-
pcated every day, or even twice a day, sliontd the case require
It. Emetic tartar seems to be the bett of tlie aniiiiionial prepa-
[ TBI ions, though others ai« occasionally prelerred: but there it
tome ditliculty in deciding diis point ; fur all die preparations of
antimony have so little activity in tbe »yitem of the hoTM-, tbui
their cflects are not ofieii perceptible: we know dit-ni tn be loe-
fu), however, from iht-ir frequenily »nl>duiiig or initii>»ting die
disease for which they are employeil. When antiiiiunials arc
given to remove sut(«vi, ut celaK ttie kkin, they may be titaie-
AND PHARHACOPCEIA. 475
rially assisted b^ exercise and moderately warm clothing. I
have lately successfully employed, as an alterative, tlie common
Eulphuret of antimony, finely levigated, or brought to an impal-
pable powder by washing, as challt u. M. Volpi, an eminent
Italian veterinary author, and one of the Professors of the Ve-
terinary School at Milan, frequently prescribes emetic tartar in
doses of four or five drachms for horses, and much larger doses
for cattle. To a sheep he gives thirty-six grains, to a pig a
scruple, to b large dog six grains, and observes, that " when the
nature of the disorder is well known, and the attack is severe
and dangerous, we may begin with much larger doses, even
four times the quantity above prescribed."
[These large doses of emetic tartar are to be reprobated, for
instances have been known of inflammation of the stomach and
intestines having been produced by the too large exhibition of
the medicine medicinally. We are less surprised at this when
we consider the irritating effects of this medicine, when applied
externally. In the form of an ointment, or in a liniment, with
oil and spirit of turpentine, it has been found to produce great
counter^irritation, and to succeed in doing so when cantharides
has failed. In these cases it is very useful, particularly as it
causes less pain. It does not raise watery bladders, but pustu-
lar swellings ; and it is objectionable on account of its tendency ■
to produce extensive sloughing and blemishes. ■'» En.]
EMOLLIENTS. Medicines or applications that soothe
and allay irritation, by relaxing or softening the parts to which
they are applied. They consist chiefly of oily and mucilaginous
fluids, which are used either internally in innammaliotis of the
gullet, windpipe, intestinal canal, or urinary bladder, or exter-
nally as fomentations or poultices (see Fomentation and
Poultice), at a temperature that is most agreeable to the feel-
ings of the patient, and best adapted to the purpose for which
th^ are employed, that is, to assuage pain, subdue inflammation,
and, in tumours tending to suppuration, to hasten or promote
that process. Emollient fomentations are generally made with
msrsh* mallows, and other mucilaginous plants or herbs; and
poultices are composed of bran with oatmeal, linseed powder,
lard, or oil, and some of the bulbous roots, such as the white
lily, or turnip, with linseed meal, or bread and milk. Internal
emollients consist also of oily and mucilaginous fluids, or decoc-
tions of marsh-mallow root, liquorice root, linseed, solution of
gum, emulsions, &c. Their action is the same as demulcents.
(See Demulcents.)
EMULSIONS. A term given to preparations, in which oil
is blended with water, by means either of mucilage, the yolk of
an e^, or a small quantity of some alkali (see Alkali).
Emulsions have a milky appearance, and are a convenient vehi-
476 MATEBIA MEDICA
cle for pectoral medicines. Medicine in this form, and for this
purpose, are now rarelj' employed.
Tliese mixtures of oil and water, by the intervention of an
alkali or mncilage, are sometimes giren alone in coughs.
SIMPLE EMULSION.
Olive oil 2 oz.
Clarified honey 3 oz.
Soft water 1 pint.
Sub-carbonate of potash 2 dnc — Mix.
FSCl'ORAL EMULSION.
Camphor > 1 to 2 drs.
To be rubbed into a powder by means of a few drops of
spirit of wine.
on of anise-seed 12 or 15 drops.
To this add, gradually, from twelve ounces to a pint of the
simple emulsion. To this may be added occasionally nitrate of
potash, and tincture of opium.
An elegant and pleasant emulsion is made by rubbing blanched
almonds (that is, almonds that have had the skin taken off by
steeping them in hot water) in a mortar with sugar, and muci-
lage of gum arable. When these have been well rubbed, water
is to be gradually added.
ENEMA. A clyster. See Clysters.
EPSOM SALTS. See Sulphate of Magnesia.
ERRHINES. Powders that cause sneezing by being blown
up the nostrils. They are composed generally of hellebore,
snuff, asarabacca, turpeth mineral, &c.
ESCHAROTICS. Mild caustics, generally in the form of
powder. Such are nitric oxide of mercury [red precipitate), «t-
siccated sulphate of alumine (burjd alum), acetate of copper
{crystaltixed verdigris), sulphate of copper [blue vitriol). These
are applied, either separately, or two or more of them are mixed
together, and finely powdered ; sometimes they are mixed with
bole arnienic or chalk, or with lard or digestive ointment, by
which they are rendered milder.
ESCH ARCTIC POWnEHS.
Na I. Exsiccated or burnt alum 2 dr.
Nitric oxide of mercury J oz. — Mix.
No. 2. Sulphate of copper 1 oz.
Bole armenic 1 oz. — Mix.
(See Caustics, Astringents, Digestives, and Deteb-
GENTE.)
AMD PMAItMACOPSIA. 477
KBCUAROTIC LINIMENT.
Honey Sox.
Muriatic acid 1 oi.
Verdigris 1 o'i-
Mix, over a slow fire.
This liniment inav be made stronger by tubMiltiting Ditrotis
Bcid for muriatic, or by retaining the raunutic, and eubelituling
for the verdigris one drachm of sublimate. A wcukcr Hnimeiil
JG made, and a very useful one, by using two ouiicics of vinegar
instead of ttte muriatic acid (see Iixivi'tiacum). liWchnrolics
arc applied to foul ulcers, and are employed to destroy fungoiM
or proud tlesb,
ESSENCE. This term is applied to essential oils, and very
pn)pcrly, since they generally contain ail the medical virtues of
iIk* Niibstance from which they are extracted.
ESSENCE of Pepfehmint. Tile preparation sold in tl»e shop
by this name is made by dissolving a small proportion of oil of
pepfH'rmint ; one ounce, for instance. In three ounces of rectified
spirit of alcohol, that has been previously tinged with some green
cototir.
Essence of Mustard appears to be composed of mustard,
camphor, oil of rosemary, and oil of turpentine, which form a.
good stimulating embrocation. See Emukocation.
ESSENTIAL OILS. The smell, taste, atid other qualities
of vegetables, frequently reside in a volatile oil, particularly in
those vegetables, or certain parts of vegetables, ilmt have a
strong odour and taste: as mint, penny-ioyal, peppermint, la-
vender, caraway -seeds, anise-seede, junipcr-bcrries, lomon-pcel,
Ntndal-wood, &c. This oil, being volatile, may be extracted,
and procured in a separate state, by distillation ; and tu it often
contains the useful qualities of tlie substance it was obtained
fn)m, is termed an etiential oil. See EssENCB.
ETHEIt. SULPIiURia— '?>/»"■ SH//.A«riVi«. Tlii< is the
moel volatile liquid we arc ucquaintetl with, and evaporatca
reitdily in the common temperature of the atmo»piierr; it must
be given, therefore, with grejil expedition, or a, consldernble
part of the dose will be lost by evaporation. Sulphuric etlier is
a powerful stimulant, and m»«t be given with caution. I have
known a dose of two ounces destroy ii horse, but it was given in
a case that wa? supposed lo be the fintuleiit or Kpiuiuodic colic,
but wliicb was probably inflannnalioa of the boweU. [It is a
valuable medicine for flatulent colic, in dusi,'« from four clrachms
to an ounce combined with tincture of opium. — Eo.]
ETHIOP'S MINEUAL. — //jrfrtJjyyW AW;)A««'/trni ATh
grnm. Black sulplmret of mercury. A preparation made by
478
MATERIA UEDtCA
niWting eijtui) jwrls of (jiiirksilver and flgur of sulpliur togt-ilwr,
iinlil (lie tnixtun- tx^oiiiM black, and the (jtiickailvor invisible.
Elhiop't Mineral, tliougd generally' coiisirlcred as a rnvdiciRe
of little power, or nearly inert, in, I am inclined to bclit^rc, pos-
•nsed of considerable virttio, and will be found, probably, at
good a morciii'ial as can be employed, in all case* where it u ne-
cMsary lo inirodiictf merfiiry into the circulation, as in brcy.
glimdere. obstinate cases of nianjjp, &c. Ii sbould be ^ivcn in a
<io«c of two or tbree drachma in ilie Iwrse's corn, once or twice a
day, unlU an oHensive smell is perceived in (he animal'tbreatliior
lie is found to stale more than usual ; for these eymptonia indicMp
that the morcnry has got into the circiitatioii. Tl>e disorder &r
wliiel) it is given may, at this period, be cvpcctod to yield to ibc
im-rctirial influence, and may not require a furtlier continnancw
of (he niedicitio. I wmdd advise a trial being made of Ktliiop'i
mineral in the early stage of glanders. M, Volpi, one of ibe
Professors of the Veterinary School at Milan, has publklwd
an iKOOiint of sixteen l)or«cK that \w cured of die glonden, iiy
meant of Ktlitop's mineral, given inlrriuilly, aitd by ^ringii
the iiaaa] cavities with lime watrr. One of iheni, a cast ho
Aom the 1st lU-ginient of Chasseurs luid been gUndered «if^
inonllis, and wheit M. Volpi had cured hiin, Ivc sold him to an
oflieer of the *»me regtm<-nt, to whom ilie horse liad formerly
belonged, and who knew that he luul been gtandert-d. He savt
half an ounce every day until (he jq>p«tit« wax it(ris;ted, and theiv
was a slight salivation. Lime water wn* tlM-n given for a ^lori
lime until the Kidivation ecawd, and the appi-lile returned. 'I1w
Kihiop's mineral was then given us befon-, and continued iu
manner until tin- diiteaie was cuml. The time in which
cures were accompIi«he<l wa* from two to five months.
Ethiop'i Mineral, mixed with an equal cjuantiiy nf sulphurel
of Hiiiimony, forms the aniinionial Kiliiop'.i, and is a good re-
nii-<ly for cutaneous complainlA. The dows two drachms in tlie
burse's corn. This is tlte prejiaraiion wliii;h M. Malouin eai-
ploj-cd for glanders. He gave from ludf an ouitce to on ounce
every moniing, and a Imndful of (wriwinkle, djoppcd up in tb*
horse's mash, trvery night. He also administeretl u pitrgstin
once in eight tlays. M. Malouiii's metliod of making the anti-
monial I£thiop'> wa-^ difTei-ent from the simple proceaa alxivc men*
tioned. He niixi'^ common antimony witli quicksilver, eiihif
by trituration or by fiieion. Hotii-gelal, however, in Im Mtttim
Medieale, says, " The character given of iliia preparation in tlie
public papers, as n remedy lor glanders, induced us to give it a
trial ; it was administered to w^eral i;iandered iKinrs, wilh peri-
winkle as dir^-cled by M. Mntonin, but it never e(IiN;ie<l « cure,
and I may add, that in mangy coi»i)laiuu it apjicaiw) to be iti-
SerUa to autimony giv<fu inlotw."
AMD FHAttMACOPtEIA.
EUPHORBI-'EGUMMI-RESINA. Eapliorbium. A gum
reaiii, thnt oxiides «pontnneously from a ]&rge orienisl inv. It
is brcKi}i)it to UH in ainall di-om of h jiale yellow colour, whi«li
are generally mixed with woody and other extran^ons matter.
Kiiphorbium is used in veterinary practice as an exteriinl ap-
plication. It is fiyncrally employed in the form ol' tincture;
sometimes it is mixed into an ointment with liog's lai'd, iiiei'-
curial ointment, oil of origanum, oil of bay, Dec, beinj^ pre-
vioiislv reduced to a fine powder. It is also fi-eqiiei)ily an
ingredient in strong blisters, to which it proves a powerful
auxiliary. In whatever form euphorbium is employed, it pi-ovt>s
oxirentcly ncriinonions and stimulating, and is therefore em-
ploT«-<l lo reduce callous swellings of the buck sinews, or other
parlK ; curbs, wimlgalls, &c.
Tt»c tincture is made by digesting, or stt-cping, oik- ounce of
the powtk-r in four or six ounces of rccliiicd or proof spirit; fro-
quentiy sliukiiig the bultlc wlncli coninin* tliv mixture, and
keeping it in « nnrin place: iifler eight or ten tUiy« it is to be
Htrnim-d off, and kci>i wril corked. Some add to this a little
Stiblimaie and oil of origaniiin, or camplior. There is another
kind of tincture, made by dig<'»ting the powder in a strong
solution of potash, which also acts irery violently. In powdering
eu[^inrbium, llie mortar should be placed where there is a cur-
rent of uir, BO ibat the dust which arises tnay be blown off,
otherwise it wonld get into tW nosinis or throcil, and prove ex-
ceuively troiiblnomc, :(omelinK'« causing bleeding nl the none
and swelling of the iiUegitinents of iIk- beiMl. I d<i not con.iitler
ruptwrbinm an eligible ingredient in blisier*, M there is some
danger of il* causing ulceration of the skin.*
KXKRCISIi. We have observt-d, under the article diet, that
the b»rM-'i exerri»e nhoiild he iiluiiys proportionate to the quan-
tity and (pialily nf bin food ; or ratlicr, thiit the latter aliould be
adiipted to Ihe former, in order to pre«erve him in health. We
have further to remark, Uiat in oUier points of view exercise ia
of great importance. In training n liifrse fur the ttirf or the
chase, it b by emritr prx^>erly conducted, and a well re^^iilated
diet, tlmt we enable him to perform tbo>e wonderful exerltotis
thai are required fi-om him, and bring \m wind to the highest
degree of perfection which it is capable of aliaining. In Iraining
a horse, whether he be designed for the turf, the chase, or tlio
annj', ihia precaution must aiwavs be observed, — that his
exercise never exceeds his strength. Many horses have been
(k^troyed by neglecting this precaution, particularly in ihc
army, where we liy> oHen see horses recruited of three years old.
When tirat brought to the regiment (perhaps from a consi<lcrabIe
* As tlii* medicine protluctH to much irriintinn, ii i* better lo ntoid iti uw
nllogetbiT, uB WL- liare other utimulants Ihuc nill supply itn gilace. — Ed.
L
480
MATBIIIA MEMCA
dislnncv), thry arc weak ami otii of coiidUioni often a
fruni Ktruiigk<m whk-h, fruiii their weak state, do no
forwmnl pro]MT)Vt but ntTect c1i»eA/ the internal part^ cauiinf;
pnin mkI dimculiy in swnllowiitg. At this tinte lliey an.' tinlil
RHT tmy kind of work, and require tvro months to be brought
into proper condition tor the riding school. However, thtrv are
not, in general, allowed half tlial lime, but are broui;lii loo
Imstily into the ^hool, where, heiru^ unaccuBioniect to inai, or,
indeed, (o any kind of work, ihey become excessively (iitiffued;
and to young horses in a stale of debility, particularly if tiiey
are not immediati^y attended to, and taken great care of witon
brousiht sweating from the school, this exercise, I am convinct^l,
b often attended with destructive con-n.-qucnces. Exercise,
therefore, should always be moderate at Bi-si, and a<lapied to ilie
animaJ's strength ; by increasing it gmdually, and in proportioa
to his condition, he may soon be brouglit to bear, without io-
convenience, that degree of exertion, and <rclocity of motioa,
for which he is wanted. Exercise not only prevents disease, but
nialrriallv assists in the cure of many: tliUK, in swellings of d»e
jjltfcls and leg«, grease, inflnmed eyes, &o., medicinO) without
rT>ropei- exercise, seldom effects a cure.
KXPECTOK ANTS. Medicines that increase the dnchaiw
of mucus fi'oni the limgs, and llM-reby relieve cough and diffi-
culty of breathing. There are many medicine* which produce
tliis elU-ct in ihehinuiin body; but in llic hone the action at
fjCjirrloranU is not so perceptible. Some of the nti-dicines, boW'
ever, termed expectorants, prove H?rviceahlc in the horse,
relieving or curing cough and difficulty in brculhint;, or what
termed thickness of wind ; among these arc squiti, and gn
ammoniacum ; both which I have often found beneficial in thocc
complaints. But the medicines 1 have found most useful in
chronic cough and asthma, or broken wind, are mild diuretics
joined with cordials. 1 have known the occasional use of oor^
Itlial diuretics, when the horse's diet is carefully attended to, not
only relicvp but apparently cure broken wind; but the hone'i
work sliould be moderate, and so coiidueteil as not to interfere
with digi-stion.
Gum nmmoniacum ••• Sot,
z 1
I'on-dercd squills 1 OX.
Powdered opium *••*••• J OZ.
Powdered ginger *••. 1 os>
Powdered allspice ••• 1 ox>
Oil of anise-seeds ^OS<
Balsam of sulphur ,•• 4ox.
Castile soap, Eufteiied by being
beaten u^ witlia little syrup .... 2ox.
L
AND DIAIlMACOrtKIA. 4^1
To be b«-ale» into a trnun fit for iiiskitif; lialls. T)ic dose from
one otincv to one ounce and a liiilf diiily, or twice a day.
KXTKACrS. — Eidrarta. Tlicw are made by boiling; the
siib«taiice whose virtue* are to Ikj extracted, in dislillcd water,
prefjtiiu; out the decoction, Aimininji; it, and netting it aside- In
unler tlint the lieces may auhside; after whicl) il is &p,k\\n hoiled
in n water bath, Miturated wiiti sea udt, until ii aci|ntrc a proper
coniiotence. In tlii^ manner are made the extracts of aloes.
gentian root, while {>opi>y lieads, liquorice, tkc,
EVli-WATEtt. See Collyriom.
KKHK[I''UO£. A terin given to medicines that moderate or
lessen the violence of fever.
Camplior 1 to 2 dr.
Nitre 3 to 6 dr.
Tartarized antimony. ... I dr.
l-1our und in'ocle or syrup enough to form the ball.
FENUG RKKK. ■ — Fwtium Oraeum. The *eeds only of ibis
plant are employed for nicdieiiial purpoM'S: on aceomit of llicir
mneilaj^inoiis ijiiiiliiy th<-y are used in mulcing ponl(ict*«, and
feometinu'S emollient glysten. Karncrs often give them inter-
nally, with what view ] cannot pretend to say; fince the^ do
not appear to be adupled to the cure of any complaint. They
arc raten in the Levant, and considered scomudiic. The pow-
domd lenugrcrk sold in the sliugis contains a iar^e proportion
(generally otic half) of pea meal. It is supposed, espeeially by
woggonert, ami tbe servants of large horse proprietors, to pro-
mote condition.
FIKING. A severe operation, often performed on the horse,
and on soum- oeciuions highly useful. It eongixts in the appliea>
tion of a red-hot iron to the skin, »» lu to burn without peiie-
tmiing thrinigh it. The violent inlluunMation this oecasiona
rouM-ti the absorbent vessels into itction, by which callous or even
bony swellidgs are sometimes dispeised. Tlu> di^eaies in which
it is most eliicacious are spavins, ring-bones, and old callous
swelling* about the back sinews, in consequence uf trains and
windgalls. Tiring draws blood to the tiffected part, thickens
and strengthens it, and makes the skin act a* a permanent hand-
age. A blister is often applied to the part, innnediately alier
firing, or on tlie following day, to render it more elletiual. Ic
is itecessary to observe that the milder remediea should be tried
before this severe ojKTatiun is resorted to.
It has l>een assetted, that when firing is employed for old
callous swellings of the back sinews, the swelling should bo
previously reduwd by bliatering, and that firing will then pre-
vent any return of the complaint ; whereas, it" the firing be per-
form<il in the first pLice, it will tend to fix the swelling, and
1 t
48S
MATERIA UBDICA
rendiT il tnourable. I do not belkve tliere is any ground for
Ibis opinion. It ia certain, however, that wl>en n |>a>l is tA a
stau- of inflamnutiont vrltich ie indicatwl by its being liotier and
more tviKler than olbcr parts, firing will do harm. The inftam-
mtlon slwuld be liret n-moved by tlio Trequcnl application of
tome cooling lotion, such os diluted vint^BJ-, in which a little
Hugar of lead has been dtssolvrd.
The hot iron is the tnmt (^'(Tt'Cliial n-me^ly for those uli-ersof
theokin which depend n pan farcy or glanders. It is improperly
employed to ivinove tliat swelling of the roof of the mouth next
ilie upper front ivetti, wliicli is nnmcd lampat. Sec Lahitjis.
FLAX.SI:EI>. Set I.i(48r.Bi>.
FLIES, SPANISH- S<re Cantiiariuss.
FI.OUR. SeiT Wheat Fi-our.
FLOWKRS, OK OXIDE, OF 7ASC. — Orulim asn.
'I'hesei nisu, »i-e obtained by .inhliniation from tht^ metal named
zinc. The medicine is said to postfst a conHidcruble tooir
power.
Should aity orte be inclined to tr}' the Rowers of xinc, be tmty
safely begin, 1 think, wiiti the dose of two dracbnit or half an
ounce, ajid gradually iiKrease it until sonic eflect is observed.
The diseases to whicli it is adapted are those ariting from
debililv.
FOSlENTATIONS.— fommta. This term is applied lo
various kinds of decoctions, or medicated liquids, whidi ire
employed externally to bathe or foment any iiinamed or painful
pan, or to iniprove the condition of woundii wbt>ii tliey arc very
irritublo, and di^liarge unhealthy ufTitnait'e matt«,-r, or when
approaching to a state of gangrene or nmrtiftcation. Fotncai-
ations are therefore divided into tite following kinds, tic emoiUai
and anodyw.
BMOLLIENT rOUKtrTATION.
Boil marsb-mallona in water for Hoin<? lime, then Strain olF it
lic[uor, and bathe the affected parts with il while warm.
ANODYNR rOMRXTATION.
No. I. Whito poppy heads broken, two dozen.
Hemlock, two handfulli.
Boil fur two hours gently in six quarts of water.
No. 2. Wormwood dried, and cumomilc flowers,
of each 4 02.
Uue 9 01.
Ray leaves S 01.
Boil them lor one hour in a gallon of water.
I
srij
lext 1
J
AMD riiARMAropatiju 48iJ
Btmark. — TliCffKcacy ofn fomviitatimi dcpcncit on iu beinv
properly iippllcd ; 1 lMlv^^ thcreroi'e to observe, i)iat llie liquid
should be only lu liot at tlic [mrt cait b<-tir witliout pitiii. Large
flaiiitc] olothit nre to be dipped into tlio roincntntioih then lightly
HTung out, and spread over the anVctfd part ; by the lime one
cloth gcU a little cu»), anottit^ xhoiild bu (;ot ready, and applied
in thf same manner. This operation ought to )>e continued lor
hair ati hour at least, and repeated three or (bur times n day,
Tlw emollient fomentation is adapted [o inflamed swetlrng«i
from whatever cause ihey may arise; and when it caiuiot bp
procured, warm water alone will be found an uwful substitute.
The anodyne fomentation, No. I., is of ereat sen-ice in wounds
or swellings which are accompanied with great pain and irrita-
bility: it tends to correct putridity and gangrene, in larger
wounds of the lacerated kind, where the matter is thin, ill-co-
loured, and offensive; but in such cases, the assistance of inter-
nal remedies cannot he dispensed with.
It is probable that warm water U as good an emollient fomenta-
tion as can be employed, if used assiduously, and at a proper lem-
peratur*-, wliich should be regulated by the slate or irritability
of the part to which it is applied. In inflammalion of the eye, for
example, it should not be above Htl", or blood heat; in inflamed
and painful swellings, it should seldom exceed 100°. In strains
of the back sinews, vinegar, either alone or diluted, is considei'ed
B good fomentation; and as the injui-}' U rather deeply seated,
and not in the skin, the fomentation may be applied rather
'liotter than wheri? the cuticle i» affecied.
When a fomentniion i* employed tor intlainmation of the
bowels, it should be still hotter; indeed so hot as that tlie hand
cannot be dipped into it without pain. The beat mode of ap-
plying it is by means of a long piece of woollen-cloth, with the
two endfi joined, tiiat it may be wrung out of the hot fomen-
tation, by placing a stick through each end; for the liquor
make) the cloth too hot to be hnndletl and wrung out without
this contrivance. When thus applied, it may be considered as
a steam fomentation, and will be found very beneficial. Two
men, one on each side the horse, are required to apply this (b-
meniation efieetually. In some cases, where the swellmg or in-
jury is not extensive, the fomentation may be applied with a
large sponge in others ; by a thick woollen cloth, such as an old
rug or blanket.
[Mr. Mavor has iniroilticccl some apparatus for the topical
application of steam, which is noticed iu a previous part of th«
present work. — Ki>.]
FOXGLOVE, — Digitalis. This is an indif>enous biennial
plant, which grows plciitifuHy in this country, and flowers during
pan of the months of July and August. The leaves were
I I 'i
484
UATRHU
Ibrmcrly employed as iiii applicoiioii to ulcrn mid iicrc)rul<ifl
tumnitrs; but IVoiii lltcir drU'lorioiiii <]ii»lity werv MOdom ui0
OS an intemid remedy. Foxvlovc wiu found to posses rcmoHt*
alilc ])nn'cr in diniinnhinj;; Uie fr<N)itpiicy of ilie tuimni) pulw,
tlxTflon! it w'Oi ex[>ected lo be Touixl a vadtiitbli' nicdiciiu> in
tlioK- itiieriial inflanintationa uhicti »o frequenUy occur in horxcit
t)K-ir iiKMl dangcTX>ua fevers de[wtidiiij; on tliis cau«r ; luid wben
iIh- inllaiiiiiiatiof) attacks nn impunanl jiart, tuclt &k the lungs
Ml' bowels, it generally terminates fubiliy, iitile«s tlittt nio«t now-
erfu) remedy, bleeding, be employed at an early period. Fox-
glove, on tt>e«e occasions, it was thought, would greatly usist
this lemedv, particularly in inflammation of the lungs. It vts,
llieivfore, introduced into vcierinary praclicc. Tite oilier com-
plaints in which it has been chiefly employed, are chronic cough,
or imperfect wind, wid swelling of the legs.
Pox^ove is an active medicine in the horse, and cannot be
giren wiihperlect larm in larj^cr doses ihanadraclim; the bone
must be carefully watched, tliat the elTect inay be seen ; for, if
too much be given) the slomach U sometimes materially injured.
Tho iimt freiiucnl effect of foxglove is to take ofl'the appetite:
and that eflt-ct, nhi-n it ha» been given in a full dose, generally
continues two or ihri'^ days; it should, therefore, be given witii
caution. *
FUMIGATIONS. The«c consist ofsulHtRticcs wbteli emit
fumn or vapours by iho application of heal or other mean.
I1iey are generally vmployeil to destroy contagion ; and tho<^
the fumigations n'coni mended in books of fairiery, as writ a
tbosc in coiniiioii xiw, are inadequate to that purpose, yet there
Are certainly some which may be productirc of great advanla^te.t
Film igat ion* are emiiloyed to prevent the spreading of epidemic
distenipei-K, or to deHti'<>y the conliigtott of glmidcrs.
The roUuniiig is one of the most rfli-cluul fumigations, and
may be used in influenza, or other infecliuii« dixeosea : —
* Tli« uaiiul cliMoof foKglave Isairrufilc ton (lnicl)moiicc,twice,ar thrice
a liKv will) lartarixGil nniimonj' soil niirc. It Iioa ceitaiu))' a n^ular eAct
on ttic^ piilic, renil<nn|t it ol lirit inlcmiiltcnt, anil ihtn IcM frsqueUi With
thb view it is given liiiolliiniiaaiioDat'ihc lunj* nfttr UooiMciim^. It muM
not, however, be too much reltolou, or eai|ila;«<(l lo tbe excluuoa of o<li«r mt-
diciiinl >t!ciil». '
li hni liH-'ii emplnvcd in liraken irind, when it lios bren fouiiU to Iran-
quilliie the r«(i]iii-ulion for n time..— Ul>.
t Fumigating the ncMlriLi has been tricil in i;;lander* wilh occanonal adian-
tago. Csrtionic acitl giii hu been thus afijttifil, and chioriM gas i> much r^
commcndcil. Mr. Morton adviici it to he thus oilintnlMnvd : ** ChlariDc gu
is to be liberated from muriatic ariil hf liie action orpcroxid* of niaaiganaN
upon it. For this purpoH a Florence Aaak, nMand, NNJlampafoalt ibai It r^
qoired. At inui-h f,in la to lie diaeiii:uj,'vJ into the loon Vox in whieli the
aninial in j)1.icc^il an the ax^itinrit can bi-nr to inhale, be lh«a retim viilh the
Opparnliis. Thus the nlmoanhece will lie Mifficimilv Impngaated with ihr
gt0, which may be reiicatcil tnc next day." — Eo.
AN'D PKAltMACOPtEIA. 465
Take of
Common salt 8 oz.
Ma iignnese powdered 6 oz.
Let tlifse be well mixed, and placed in an eartlien diali ; ihon
pour on the mixture, gradually, of nulplniric acid, four oiinc^a.
As fioon as ihe latter is added, the ojierator ahoutd leave ilie
stable) shutting both the door and windows. The fume* which
arise from tliLi mixture, aie highly injurious to the luiigH, and
must be carefully avoided; therefore this funiigalioi) can be
performed oal;' In an empty stable. During (lie whole day the
stable-door and windows are to be kept shnl ; but at night they
may be thrown open, that iheie may be no danger on entering
the Bisble next morning. I lielicve this to be the only efficacious
fumi^^otion, having found that when glnnderous matter is ex-
posed to it a §hort time, it is rendered perfectly harmless, The
fumes which are generated by pouring oil of vitriol, or vitriolic
ncid, on powdered nitre, are said to be very eETectual in deetroy-
ing human contagion ; how far it may be serviceable in vete-
rinary practice remains to be ascertaiued ; but, as the fevers of
|]or«« do not appear to be infeelious, there i? no great proba-
biliry of its proving useful. The term frmifi/a/ion is applied, by
French veterinary writers, to the vapour arising from boiled
licrba, or bran and hot water.
[Mr. Read has iuveiited some ingenious apparatus, by which
a simple or medicated fumigation may be conveniently applied
to llie nostrils. (See p. I"27.) — Ei>.]
GALDANUM. — Galbnmim. This plant is a native of
Syria and some parts of Africa, and alTords a gum-rr«in, similar
in its medicinal tjualities to amnioniacum; that is to say. anti-
spasmodic, deobsiruent, and expectorant. It is, however, in-
ferior to the latter medicine in cincacv, and may be said to hold
a middle place between it and assafcclidu. The dose is about
three drachms.
GALLS. — Gallie. An excrescence firom the oak tree, pro-
duced by tiie puncture of an insect. Galls arc poiverlully
astringent, but not olien employed internally; I hey may, how-
ever, prove useful, in conjunction with othei' remedies, in sup-
preasing oUttinnte dinrrliM-n.
*nie don- from two drachms to fotu'.
GALVANISM. It hoi been discovered within these few
years, tliai an ellect soniewhat like electricity may be produced
on t)te body by menus of different metals and an acitl liquor;
and llmt a short time after death, the muscles may be excited
to action by the same means, producing the most curious phe-
nomena. From ihe name nf its dis,coveivr. GaJvani, it Is termed
ialvunUm. It has lately been employcil for vlw c\«« oS wxvwffl.
4Sir
MATERIA MEDICA
dueeses, and, it n Mid, with eonkidirrsbte mccess ; therefore it
may be worlli ii trinl in those diMirtU-D of llu> horse for wliicli m
present wc luivv no reniirdy: such lu gutia-scrcna, and otiitr
diwa**-! I'f till- f\i;
GAM ll()(i K. — Gaml>offia. Tl»e tree from which this gum
I Ik obiainud ii a native of Siani and Cej-lon. Gamboge is per-
fectly inodofouH, ami has an insipid tosle. In man it acta as a
violent catliartic, oHen producing nau»ea and vomiting ; but it is
very ratvly used for velerinarv purposes, as it* dTvcU are uo-
certnin, and it is liable to produce griping.
The dose is from two draclmis to half an ounce ; or two
drachms of gamboge may be combined with three ofalors.
GARLIC, — AUium. This is ol)en employed by tarriere «
a remedv for coughs and thickness of wind; and 1 brliirvc thnt
in coughs of the chronic kind it ha« sometimes iH'cn found
efficacious.
The dose is from one to two ounces.
Tlie cloves are separated and pounded in a mortar uniil t]tey
form a sort of jmsIc, which is formed into balls with liquorice
powder; sometimes ihey are boiled in milk, and given tn the
form of a drench. Gibson speaks highly of garlic.
GKNTIANj the Root. — Grntiann iMtta. A perennial
phtnt, found in Swiuerland, Aneiria, the Pyrenees, and North
America. It pos»-«M-K no particular odour, and its taste is ex-
tremely bitter, un which accotnit it is very generally employed
in the same manner as bark and other bilters, to give vigour to
the stomach and improve digestion. It generally requires to be
joined with stimulant* ; such as ginger, esssia, myrrh, cascarillA,
&c. ; and when any acidity is suspected to exist in the stomach,
a small quantity ofsoila is an useful addition. Gentian is tlu'
basts of that famous liorH* powder termed diapenti. Gentian
root sometimes becomes rotten and uteU-ss : the purchaser shoidd
tlicrefore examine before he buys, and clioow such parts as are
sound, rather lough, and cxtreiively bitter. It U to be leared
that the powdered gentian of the shops is oot so good na it
should be; and it is to be lamented that druggists in general
think any thins good enough for lior!«s.
The dose of pure gentian is from two lo four drachms. Ijee
Tonics and Stomaciiics.
GEUM rUBANUM: WflrfiV. The root of Aveiw. This
ia an indigenous perennial plani, flowering from May to August.
Its odour is fragrant and spicy, and its taste bitterish and
uttringenL lis pioperilei are astringent, tonic, and anti-
M^>tic, and it may be adTniitageoiuly employed in those ditrases
which depend on a ivlaxed slate ol the system, or of any pnt^
licularimrl ; as in dian-hceu, red-waler (where no fever exisis),
tke. This medicine has been much more extensively used o(i
AMD l>HARHACOP<£IA. 487
the Continent than in this country : and I am not aware that it
has yet been introduced here into veterinary practice ; but it
certainly deaervet a triaU especiailv aa it is an indigenous plant,
and elioiild iberefore be sold at a tow price.
GINGER; llic Root. — Zingiber officinaliM. This plant '»
originally a native of the East indies, but is now very exten-
sively grown in the West Indies also. TTie root only is tised in
medicine, and tlii« is prepared in two ways, producing two son*
ofgiiiffcr, the white and tite black. The former is generally
employed for cuHnnry purposes, and the latter, being the
cheapest, is mwtl frctpiently used a« a horse medicine.
I consider ginger as the most useful stimulant in the veteri-
nary materia mrdtca ; when joined with aromatics, such as alUpice,
caraway-«eitl, auise'Sced, ctinimin-seed, &c., or their essential
oil*, it forma nn elHrjiciou* conlini; and nilh emetic tartar and
o]>ium an excellent dinphu relic, for giving gloss to llie coal, and
relaxing the sktti.
Ginger h extremely heneiicial in weakne«» and flatulency of
the ttomach ; and aB!ii*ied by other rvniedie«, such as warm
brer, it seldom fails of curing the flatulent colic or gripes. (See
Carmin'ativks.) It is generally added to aperients, in order to
correct thrir liability to produce griping.
Th*' dose \» from one drachrn to three (Irachms.
It should he recently {Wttdered when used; hut in a wcll-
Klopped bottle the powder may be kepi a considerable lime
witnout losing its strengtii.
Ginger is frequently thrust whole, after being chewed, np the
fundinnent of a hone, in order to make him carry his tail high,
and give him a eighily appearance. It is certainly a very
improper practice, and, though il may very rarely happen, 1
can easily conceive that a very considerable degree of irrilation
of the rectum^ and tenesmus, may be produced by a frequent
repetition of this operation. Many horses belonging to dederi
are frequently shown to customers a dozen times a day, or
of^er, and are invariably ^^fi/, as it is termed, prior to being
led out of the stable. After il sliort linie. the irritation produced
by the ginger causes them to m<ike violent efforts to dung, and
the ginger is generally expelled : but these very etforts prove to
wltat a ftlimuluB the poor animals have been euhjcctcd ; and
stimulants, especially strong ones, frequently n>pcatcd, may
even I iially produce inflanimation.
GLAUBER'S SALT. Sec Sum-iiate of Soda.
GLVSTER. See CiAsrEn.
GOLDEN SULPIIUK OF ANTIMONY, now named
Precipitated SuLPiiitRKT oii Antimoky. — Suhhuretum Jn-
timemii Freeipitatum. Hits is an orange-cnlourct! powder, in-
soluble in water, and inodorous. It is stud to increase the
I 1 4
4»
MATERIA MtOICA
lebrifufte power of sniimonial powder. (Sec FEUKiruat:.) Tha
E reparation of antimony is scaroHy known lo fsrricrs, ami, I
eltvro, seldoni iwd by rrtcriiiArians. It may be found useful,
however, in obstinate disesxcK of llic >kirt, either alone or joiocd
with merciirial«i, such hs >T^thiop's mineral.
lite (loM- is from one drechiii to two: pcrha|)« even more
may be given with Mifety ; but it i« advisible lo begin wttb a
•mull (loM>.
When pure, thii propamlion of unlimony rradily cstHircfiit:
it M fix-()uenlly adultenitod with elialk, which frutid may be de-
tected by mixine it with an acid, and if any chalk be prcvnt
eSbrveMcncc will take phice.
GOULARDS EXTKACT. — Umor I'lumh! SuhaaMiM.
New name, LiqMor Plambi DiaerUu. 'Inists made from lilhai)ie
and vinegar, by ummering tliem to^tlter over a gt-nllv fir^
until the vinegar has diBMilved as much 03 it is c»(>abte of doing,
(loutard, therefore, is noihinj^ more than a solulion of liihiu^
in vine^r. It n a very useful application in caaes of cilerT^
iuHanuiialion, and may be used either as a lotion or in t)ie foi
of poultice, Goulard lotion is mude by mixinj^ halt on ounce of
the extract to a pint of rain or river water ; some add to tliis a
little camphorated spirit, or some distilled vinegar ; but when
the lotion is intended for the eyes, there must be a much Ui]ger
tiroportion of water, not less than a quart, and the lotion dioold
le filtered.
Goulard poultice is made by mixitig as much of ilie lotion,
with bran, linseed meal, or any proper materials for a poultice^
as will give them a proper consistence. (See Poultices and
Lotions.)
Goulard Is never used undiluted, nor is it given internally.
GRAINS OF PARADISE. — Car^amomum. A waira
Stimulating seed, often used in the diseases of horned cattle as
a cordial; and where medicines of that kind are required, it
is certainly very proper.
The dose is from tliree to six drachms, or one our>ce.
GRUEL is an useful drink for horses on many occasions;
and when made carefully, or sweetened with sugar or treacle,
and eometiuies seasoned with salt, they wilt often drink it, and
save the trouble of drenching. It is a good vehicle for such
medicines as are of u stimulalmg or acrimonious nature, such as
oil of turpentine. Gruol is made citl>er with oatmeal or groats,
barley-meal or pearl-barley, fine wheat flour or arrow-root; it
may be made also willi sago, salep, or tapioca i either of these is
to be boiled in water, and, for some purposes, in milk or
broth.
Oruel is of^ei) nuide merely by stirring some oatmeal iniu
trarto waler» but it ts^Mtxet viVwn V»\Ud; and wben ^vats or
AKO PUARMACOltElA. 488
prarUbitrley are emplored, it sliould be boilccl a short lim?, and
ihv first wnicr tlironn away ; llic priicl will then be free from
ail unpleftsnnt taste wbifli ibe»e Kiib*I;incfii contract by keeping:
Vfln'ii lliey are first eriislw^i or bnii^cii ihc gnicl is riclier, anil
mort^ expcdiiiousiy mafic. Grufl in an iMefiil rrslorativo for
weak or convalescent borses, being v<Ty niuriiioti* and easy of
digc^tinii; pcrliapR notbing is more nutritious ibnn wbcat-flour
f;ruel, mtide wiili milk, and sweetened wiib iiigar. lit India it is
a cbmnion practice tu give iioraes strong brotb.t, tbiekcned with
grain or flonr, juid xea-ioned witb pejiper or olhi-r spices, wben
tbev work bard, or an a reMoralive cordial, liifiiftioii of inalt
makes a good nutritive drink for horses; but good sweet groats
make an excellent gruel. Oatmeal is sometimes niuity, and
gruel made with it haa often some degree of bitterness. Wbeit
gniel ia given as a cordial restorative after bard work, a little
beer and ginger may, on some occasions, be added. Hor»e* tbut
ore exbaualed by long fasting and fatigue are soon recniited by
taking sucb gruel. Horees are very nice in ibeir drinking;
therefore the gruel should be made in a clean saucepan, free
from the smell of meat, smoke, or lat. For some purpose*, or
where it is inconvenient to boil the gruel, a little oat, barley, or
wheat meid may bestirred into viarm or cold water.
It is a good practice to accustom horses to drink gruel, a*,
after a hard day, miuiy hunters show a disinclination to eat, but
will drink with avidity; and if they will drink gruel instead of
water, it is not of much consequence if they fast for some time.
No horse, it should, however, be remembered, is fit for hard
work if he be not a good feeder; but the best horse may refuse
liis food if forced to over-exertion.
GUv\IAC. — Guaiacmn offkinair. This tree is a native of Ja-
maica, Ilispaniola, and some parts of America. Every part of it
poGsestes medicinal properties, but the wood and gnm alone are
uwd. The former is sometimes employed in hnmnn medicine,
as an ingredient in aJterative decoctions, hut never in veterinary
practice. Tlie resin, commonly called ffum tfiutiaaim, is some-
times used as an alterative. I-nrrier: employ it also in what
they suppose to be rheumatic lameness, but, I believe, without
any advantage.
The doee of gum giiaiaciim is from half an otmce to six
drachms.
When guaiacum is iidultcraied with common renin, if a por-
tion of it be thrown into fire, an odour of turiK-ntiiie will int.
mediately be emtlled.
GUINEA PEIM'KK. See Cayenne Peppeh.
GUM. — Gummi. 'I'here are various kinds of gum, which
may be distinguioKed by iheir solubility in water, and by form-
ing therewith a mucilage. Tlie principal are, gum at^vc^ ^ww
L
HATEniA lIBttlCA
tii^BCBlllht iind Indian ^m- The Gni two arc tlic beat. Gum
dlnolvcd in water makvs a (i*fful drink in infltimiiwiory com-
ptuiniK of the bowels, kidncyKi lilixldcr, ami lung*.
tiUM HESINS. — Gkauni 'Tleiriw. Th4>w Rrt-m to b« oon-
pounds of rcain with i-xtrn«tive nnd 4t»nitial oil, nnd probaUj'
•ome other hitlicrlo un(liscoirfr«>(l |iriitci|>le». TltoM: wliicti nr«
officinal are f^ini ammoniac, Mantinony, gaJbanum, auafuttKU,
tnvrrli, KnmlM>^(', Mi^npentim, olibanuin.
'il AKTSHOHN. — Comua CWvi. "IV lionis of stag* do BW
materijilly difTer froni lione, except in coniaiiiiiig n larper qwaa-
tity ol' curtiin^i'. On Itoilin^ iltev yield a great dcul of jelly,
whk'h i» more reudilv extracted when they are cruilied or cut
into shavings: by distillation ihey yield ammonia and animal
oil.
Hartsiiork, SriRtT akd Saut or. Sec Ammonia.
HELLEBORE, BLACK AND WHITE. — i/fffAiriB
Nii/«r, Vemtrum. Black hellebore is a native of Austria, liie
A|)enninps, and Italy; white Itelleboreof Greece, Italy, Snilier-
lai)d> and Iliiuia. TlM-y both net as drnstic calharlica and
emetics on the human frante. producing, in large doses, vertigo,
inflanimalion of tlic Ktoniach, and coiivulsionif, I'he root of
this plant, {Mtrticularly of white liclicborc, is extremely acrimo-
nious; for if wounded wbilc frcsli it emits a juice capable of
blUteriug the ^kiii.
Powdered while hi-llflwn.- in often eii))i]»y<<<l as an ingredient
in blisters. It is UM-d nlito in oinlnieius for the mange, and
other cutaneous disease*. A decoction of white hellebore Is
frequently used for the tmxna pur|>ose ; but other medicines are
l^-iicrally added lo il ; as ttiJphur vivvm, tuqienline, white vitriol,
or alum. Hellebore lias been trii-d, ns an iidfrtuit remedy, in
th« small dwe of halfa drachm, and has been declared to be a
dangerous mc<licine.
Hourcvcr, 1 have lately had an o])portunity of trying tbocHrct
of white MIebore, nnd did i>ot Tind it to violvni or so danen^
ous as it was said to be, after an exfierimont made lU Uic Ve-
terinary College. To a glandercd horne I gave half an ounce
of the powder of white helh'bore, expecting it would d»trov
bim, but it produced no elTect ; an ounce wan then given, which
caused an appearance of sickness, and a copioim diMliargo nf
saliva from the iiioutli. It was given afierwurdK to sercial
liorscs; nnd was uniformly found in tlie doae of half on ounce,
fiven daily, to produce the effect above desciibed. In Mime, the
rsl dose caused un appearance of sickne^ and sidivaiiori ; oihen
took several do^es before any effect was observed. It wnt given
duly in a rase of farry, in ihc dose of half un ounce, nnd the
lioi-M.- got well: no other remedy was employed except blisters.
In none of tlie experiments did it cause any dangerous symp-
AKD PHJinaiACOrtEIA
tonts, but it certainly caused a very painful seiisatioti in the
stomach. (Sec CATitAitTics, remarks on.) The general effect
of hellebore is nauseating, by which it lowers the action of the
heart very considerably, and may, therefore, be adraniageou-tly
employed in inflnmmiitory diseases.* This, however, lias be«a
denied by some veterinarians.
Black hellebore i^ ircldom nsed in horse medicine. Stick* of
black hellebore are sometimes inserted under the ekin, particu-
larly in cattle, in order to produce an issue. [Black hellebore
luts nl»o bceii used by Mr. Stanley of Banburv. for poll evil,
mid liMnlout withers. The mode of H))p!ying it may be found
under tlieM- ilise.iae*.]
HKMLOCK. — Cvniiim Maculnlum. Tliis is an indigenous
plant, growing generally in moist shady places, and flowering
in .lune and July. It is a strong narcotic; but supposed
to l>e, oil some occasions, an useful medicine, po<ac«»iug, like
opium, an anodyne <|ualiiy, but not so certain in its cRV-ct,
It is said, however, not to produce costivenes«, likeopium. Tl>e
complaint in which it has been chiefly employed in veterinary
practice is obstinate cough, depending ujiou irritability.
The leaves are to he carefully dried and powdered. The
jKiwtlcr niuM be kepi in a well-stopped botlle, from wliidi tlie
light »]iould l>e excluded. The dose is aboni a drachm ; but it
may be gradually increased to a much larger quantity.
There is an extract made from hemlock, which, wlien ptxy
pared, is a very convenient form, and not less efficacious than
the powder. Tlie dose is about s drachni ; but ibis also, may be
gradually augmented to a considerable quantity.
A decoction of green hemlock is said to be an useful fo-
mentation in painfiil wounds and tumours. Since writing the
above, I gave about half a pound of green hemlock to a young
a» ; he ate it readily, but it did not proiluce any sensible
effect. It has been said that goau eat hemlock, and are nou-
rished by it.
It should be remarked that, as the powers of the powder are
often impaired by keeping, whenever a fivsh parcel or quantity
of the lierb is nuf), it sliuuM first be aduiinisleretl in small
doses, in order to ti<^certaiu Ws strength. Vinegar ts said to be
the best antidote for an over-dose of hemlock, after bleeding and
purging have been employed.
HeMLocK, Waieh. — 0'rt(/n Vintta. lliis was discovered by
Linnieiis to be a violent poison to cattle.
UENBANL- — Ui/otrtfawut nir/er. Thii b a biennial plaiil,
found in great ahinuknce in most [Kirtnof liriiain. Like hemlock,
* While hellebore, in icrupl« dotes, » strongly rcconitncndi-J tiy Mr. PcrcivsU
for iflflnmramioii of (he lungs, and bj' the late Mr. John Ficlil for plcuriajr. It
muy Iw re|icnted two or tlirec tiiiic-% H Jut, but requirci csrcbl wUching. — Ed.
i
4D»
HATERIA WEDICA
il i> u (wwcrfiil narcotic, and frpc from the conslipating effect of
opium. Il has not hillierio been \uied in veterinary medicine.
"Hk* MTfU are said to be the moM powcrrul part of the ntani;
bill the |K)wdfrcd leaves and i!il* extract are n>oro commonly em-
ploveti in human medicine. "
ilEI'AR SLILIMIURIS. Liver of Sulphur. Anoldneim
for Bulphuret of potass. Thii medicine ha\ bei^n found efficaci-
ous in iom« cutaneous diHrasM, as nnngir, for instance, and luu
been recommet»d4>d as nn antidote to some poisoiu, «
lie, lead, nnd mercury ; but it tuu been too srldom tri«d to
asoeriain its powir* of countfmclinjj iIh' efTects of these nieials.
Sulphiirel of [H>lat4 i» dclifpn'sn-nl, iind t« cU-compoeed by ex-
pofturr to atmo»pheric air. It hkewiw nufft-m ilt^vomposition fay
beinjj nddi*d to wuivr, jwirt of the tutpliur taking up the oxygru
of tlic water, and becoming acidified thereby forming suliihaie
ofpotOM; while tho hydrogen of the water, comhiniii;; wtlli an-
other portion of the sulnhiir, is given off in the form ofsulphu-
retred hytrofcei) gns. Hydroguretied sulphun-t of |Mitass i«iiln>
formed by the lemuining .'^iilpliur tiniling with (he alkali. Siil-
phuret of potass is decomposed by nci<lH, the aci<l forming a
iieuirtil salt with the potass, and the sulphur being libernled. It
is very necesmry to remember this fact when prescribinp *ul-
phurct of potass, otherwise its action may l>e entirely clutngcd.
The doso is from a scruple to a drachm or more.
HOG'S LARD. — Aii-pr Suillus. An article of some im-
portance in veterinary surgery, being the basis of almost even'
ointment.
Hog's lanl poBsesaes a laxative quality, and may be given to
the extent of half a pound, melted and mixed with warm water
or peppermint water, as a substitute for castor oil, olive oil, or
linked oil, when neither of these can be procured. Fmb
bog's lard melted, and mixed with a little salad oil, forms a
good softening ointment for horses' Iteels that are sub}eet to
cracks.
HONEY. — Mel. A small quantity of honey, dissolved io
litiMwd infusion, is often used in those troublesome coughs which
ariM* from irritation, and serves in this way as a gao<l auxiliaiy
to more important remedies- Honey is sometimes added tO a
solution of alum, as a lotion for the tnouth, wl>en it is inflamed
and son?.
Honey is nutrition* and rather laxative, and may be ocea-
aionally given as a rosturative mixed with milk, or with gruel
made of whcflt-flour and milk. (SeeGHuei,.) With vinegar it
forms an oxymcl ; and when squills, garlic, Stc. have be<>n pre-
* Th» RicrliL-ino hn4 been ffven by Mt. St. dtir witli suc«est in UUnniis,
m (hMQ) of threv drachma once a duv ^^V> v<^wwc wd. — Set Trf . rot. I a.
AND PUAUMACOP(ElA.
vtoiuly infused in the vinegar, it fonns wilh it oxyme) of S(]uills,
garlic. &c., which nre considered good medicines in chronic
cough. Honrj' is a convenient Giibstance for forming balls. It
ia lomclimes used also us a basis for liniments or ointments (see
EtiYniACL'M); and when made into « syrup wiih an infusion
of TOties, it forms honey of roses, uliich, wilh alum, forms an
n»efu) wiish for soreness of ihe mouth, hnnpiis, &c.
HOOF OINTMENT, is prepared from
Tar and lallow, of cuvh rqnal parts.
When melted, k-( ilie mixture be removed from ihe fire, and
stirred until it is cold.
Thii ointment is applied to the coronet and heels, when dry
and cracking; aiid is also an useful application to thin weak
feet.
HOP. — Ilumulus. A decoction of hops is a good ttomachie
bitter and anodyne, (KMstssing a weak narcotic quality. Il
forms also a jiood anodyne and discuiient fomentation.
HORSE- HADISH. — /irmoraeia. The root of horse-radish,
when fresh, is n powerful stimulant. All its virtues may be ex-
tracted by disiiiling the root wilh water or spirit; in which
state it may be kept a long time without losing its strength. It
is said to possess also a diuretic and diaphoretic quality. Its
acrimony is destroyed by boiling ; it is therefore mveii either as
an infusion, or beaten into a mass with flour, asaball. If beaten
into a mass, and formed into a paste, with Hour of mustard and
water, it is capable of blistering the skin.
HYDHAGOGUES. This appellation is given w thos*
fn«dictnca that act on the kidne)-s, increasing ihc secretion of
urine, 'llic real derivation of the word, however, would imply
anything which produced an evacuation of liquids, and therelorc
thi- f^itlict may be and is very justly applied to drastic pur-
galiviit, which induce liquid motions.
HYDKAKGYHIIM. MeacL'Ky; which *w.
HYDKAUGYRI SUBMURIAS. Submuriate of quick-
silver. Calomel. New name, I'rolochioride of Mercury. Sec
Calomci-
HYOSCYAMUS. Sec Hknbanb.
INFUSIONS. — JnfuM. Medicated liquidii, made by pour-
ing Ixiiling or cold water on any vegetable or medicine, whose
virtues it is enpable of extracting. When the medicinal prin-
ciplea of a vi-geiabte are of a volatile nature, and liable (o eva-
porate by boiling, they are extracted by t>eing steeped in hot or
cold water. The liquid thus obtained is termed hot or cold in-
fusion. Chamomile flowers, peppeiminl. and other aromatic
herbs, are to be infused in hot water; logwood, guaiacum, and
l>ark, require (o be boiled, the latter a short time only, the two
former much longer. (See DEcocriON.) The menstruum of
3
iiifiition* is water i if alcohol be used iiutostl, the prcpn:
llu.-ii called a tincture, and, when wine or vinc;^ arv cm
it a lei-med a medicated wine or vinegar.
INJECTION'S. — JnJKtimuj. Liquids (generally medicaiMl)
which are injected into any raviiy of the body, by mexns of a
aynn;ii>. gtim-bollle, or other inatrunienl.
lODIMUM. Iodine. CThia su)»Unc« ii found in a KOtt
of nature in many marine plants. Its properties are Mtimulantt
and its chief action seems directed to tlic abwrbcuUt which it
excites in a very high degree.
Iodine i» now extensively employed by scientific vctcriitariaiu.
Itt* thus dettcniwd bv Mr. Morton: —
** Althoujfli iodini- and its compotind« liavc not yet i-^nie into
Sniend uie anionj^^t veterinarians, I have little doubt but tbat
ley soon will. Iodine is obtained from the mother- water, aflrr
tl>e procuration of carbonate of soda from kelp. Its action is
of a stimulant to glandular structures, and the forms in «i
it ia employed externally are those of a liniment and ointim
Internally it may be given in doites from five to ten grains twice
in the day. alihoiigh there are ohjeetioiis to its being adflii*
nisterx^'d iincombined, as iodine only enters the circulation in tbr
form of hydriodtc acid, or an bydriodaie, and it is apt to accu-
mulate in tlic sj'Bieni.
" LiNiUKNTi'M loDiNti CoMPOstTVH. Compound liniment
of iodine.
■im
" Take of iodine 1 part.
" Soap liniment 8 parts. —
** UKOVKirrvM lomviu Ointment of iodine.
"I
*' Take of iodine I port.
• "Lard 8 ports. — Mix.
** Some dubititute for lard the milder oiniinent of merciiry. bv
which a fiir more active compound is formed. Others add half
a part of cantharides in powder, or tartar emetic, by whieb ah-
sorption is promoted. Administered internally, the form of
tincture is advocated by many. If, however, it is long kept, it
is apt to undergo decomposition.
" TiNCTi'MA luDiKii. Tincture of iodine.
" Take of iodine 1 part.
" Rectified spirit H parts. — DtlBoIve.
" The doee of this is from 1 to 2 drs. given twice a day."
Joilitk ofPotattium is a preferable form of administering iodine
AHD PUAIlMACOrOirA.
internally, as it is not liabU' to nccumtitatc in the sj-stem like
iixHiie. It is a a«ll <:onia1iiiiiK 40 p:\rtt of potii;^iiim to I2fi of
iodine. The (Ioi« for iiitcnml iiw in iwcdI}' lo tUirty grains in
the liorse. It may be usied in the form of an ointment with
eifflic parts of lard, or beinp rubbed down with un equal portion
ol quicksilver, with the addition of a little (piriu of wine, the
lara niay then l>e added, thus forming a conipouiul oititnu-nt
very serviceable in promoting the abtiorption of ghindular and
other swellings.
Diniodidt of Copper, — Mr. Morton has formed a new com-
pound \>y the chemical union of iodide of potassium and sul-
tihate of copper, two ounces of the former ajjd four of the
Micr, with a pint and a half of boiling distilled water; the
copper to be dissolved in two third;-, and the iodide in one third
of the water. When cold the solutions are mixed, and the
precipitate falling i« to \k separated and pulverised.
TItr action of thi« medicine is that of a tonic and a stimulant
to the aboorbcnt i>iy«tem. The <lose from I to 2 drs. daily, com-
bined with vi^etable tonics, and sonictinu-s small doses of can-
llmrides. It has been given successfully by Mr. C. Spooner and
Mr. Daws for farcy, and is to be recommended for nasal gleets
and glanders, its double action being >o desirable in these cases.
1 have employed the sulphate of conmr, rubbed down in a
mortar with iodide of potassium, witli success in cases re-
sembling glanders, giving vegetable tonics at the same time.
Mr. Morton also recommends, for the «imc purpose, the iodide
of iron, a chemical combination of iodine with iron, in doses of
one or two dnichnis. — Eo.] •
IPKC-VCUAN. — JjMritciiaTilia. Ipecaeuanha is sometimes
empioyinl as an t-xpecioraiit in chronic cough, and asthmaiie
airwiions, and I believe with good effect when joined with
squills, aminoniacum, 8tc. (See Expectorants.) According
to Vitut, from half an ounce to an ounce given to a horse, makes
him snuffle and sneeze fur some minutes ; at the end of an hour
he ap)>ears agitated, the l>etly tense, but the arteries and flanks
beat with violence for four or five houi's : the»e appearances
gradually go off. Given to the extent of three ounces, it dis-
tresses tJie horse greatly; he lies down and soon gets up again,
his flanks lieai, he sighs and groans, and unless water be given
him he dies convulsed. On these symptoms going off^ his dung
is a little softened, but it does not purge. I once gave an ounce
to a yoimg ass, but it did not produce any perceptible effect.
Boui'gelat says, it is employed in chronic bowel complaints, in
molion grease, and dysentery, with sucoefis, either as an infusion
or decoction. He also observes, that though it does not cause
any sensible evacuation in large animals, it purges llie sheep;
ind in die pig, the dog, aud the cat, it causes vomiting or
^^nd m die
i
496
HATEHIA HEDICA
purgine, Brcordtne to the quantity given, nnil the alaie ofttw
stomach iind Ikiwcu. He has given it to broken-wiiicled lior»(-«,
but witlioiil tucce*.*. He states llie doso for a horse to be from
72 Kf<tin> to I ounce ; for a dog, from 4 grains to 20.
IRON. — Ftrrum. This is one of iiie most abundant me>
tullic nroiluciions of nature; its ores are fouttd in almost eveiy
part of tlte filnbe in the soil and of^en in t)H.> water, and as a
L ronntiiuent of vegetable and animal bodies. The only prt-
I paraiion of iron commonly used in veierinarv medicine ri
I sulnhate of iron, or salt of steel, a useful Ionic in doses of two
' or four drachms.
JALAP, (lie Root. — Ipmmra Jalapa. In the human body,
I lite root of jalap is a certain and efficacious purgative ; and dwre
[ is scarcely an old book on farriery in which it is not recoin-
I mended for horses as an ingredient in purgative balls or pliysic;
I which practice is still foDovnxl by farriers, who generally put
I two or three drachms of jalap into i>%'erv dose of physic. It xm
' tried, liowever, first at iIh* Veterinary College, and was found to
have no purgative effect on t)io liopfe, though given in eon-
stderably larger dmes than even furriers employ; but I have
obwrvetl lltat in a very Inrge cjuanlily it occasions sickness, and
aome di^ni' of purging, though it* eRects in this way are by no
tiinns »ulficient lo induce any one to employ it as a purgative
alone.
I onoe gave eight ounces of jalap at one dose to n glander«d
horse, that was in other rrnwcts liealthy, and had not been
taking any other medicine: in about six hoiirt the horse ap-
p<iii'ed sick, and in juiin ; lie refused both food and water ;
during the night Ih- appeared to have had nunc sntall water;
stools, several of which were perceived also the next dav; but
they were in very small quantity, and acoonipanied with pain.
'I'he sickness ooiitinued all the second day, and on the foltowiiig
he recovered. _
JAMAICA PF.PPF.H.or ALLSPICE. — Afyrtut i*im<iil^m
'rim is a good carminative and cordial, and may be given ^^H
doses frotn half an ounce lo an ouiice, in fliilitlency of llie
stomach and Ixiwela, It may also be used a* cui ingredient in
cordial medicines.
The following tincture is strongly recommemh-d by Mr.
BtBcy Clark, as an exc^'llent remedy for tlie flaiuleni colic,
gripes, or TreL
Jamaica pepper I lb.
Proof spirit 6 pints. — Mix.
Let the allepic*! be powdered, and mixed with the spirit ; the
bottle to Ijc well corked, and freqiienily shaken. In two or
iJiree weeks ihc tincture will be fit lor uie. 'I'he dose atwul
AKO PUAIIMAC'OltKIA.
four ounces diluted with water, and repeated every liour until
the horse is relieved. See Cubduls and Carminatives.
JAMES'S POWDER. — PaUii Jacohi. TIioukIi llie pie-
paraiion of this medicine has been hitherto kept secret, iliere U
no reason to doubt its being composed chieilv of antimony, and
nearly the same thing as that which ia sold io the shops hy the
name of Antimonial Powder, (See Antimony.) 1 can venture
Io an^ert that. a» a horse medicine, this is as useful and t-fficiiclous
as Jamta* Powder. It is said to be an excellent medicine in
I fevers of every kind; and, thoufjh usually given in the small
tlofic of a scruple, or half a drachm, may be exhibited with per-
I feet siift'ty and belter effi-ct in a much larger quantity. I never
j give less than two drachms, and sometimes three ; and I have
seen even one ounce given at a dose without the least incon-
rrnionce. It seems Io act on the skin like emetic tartar, and
[)romotcs insensible perspiration : hut I do not think it is so cer-
tain in its effects as emetic tartar; it is sometimes joined with
opium, camphor, nitre, or ginger, according to the nature of
tltc diF^aKc: with ginger, it forms a good medicine for horses
tliat arc hide-bound ; but this compound is not proper in fevers,
or any compUinl arising from infhimmation, wid the fevers of
Iwrsej are almost always inflammatory. It is most commonly
^ven with nitre or with nitre and camphor; and some prac-
I Utionvrs prefer it, as a, fevi.-r medicine, to tartariscd antimony
(tartar rmftic). It lias been asserted that it is much improved
w a diaphoreiic In the human subject, by (be addition of one
fiiunli of its weight of precipitated sulnhuret of antimony. (Sec
FEiiHiruciKS.) James's powder is iiiKuIuble in water, and should
therefore not be administered in a drmch. According to the
aniil^'t'sts of this medicine, it ha* been found to contain anii* _
monv, pbusphiilr of lime, and pota.iH.* ^^M
_ JAPAN KARTH. St« Acacia Catechu. ^H
WL JOHN'S- WOKT. — H</i»<riatm. There is an oil of JobnV ^M
^'wort kept by druggisis, which appears to be nothing more than ^
common oil coloured with verdigris. The herb was formerly
employed in foment lit tons, but. is now thought unworthy of
iiolii-e.
JIJNIPEK RF.ItlUES. — Jtmipcri Bacca: The juniper
lihruh ia an indigenous evergreen ; and is found generally grow-
ing on downs and heaths. It flowers in May, and bears berriea,
whose medicinal properties are diuretic, carminative, and sto-
machic. They should be allowed to remain on the tree for two
years before they are gathered, as they do not come to maturity
* ThU nwlieinc i« »carccly ftvcr used in the tiome, being now rcj;K>Jcil u*
poncrlcKi in ihii nnimnl. iii the dug. howovirr, it ■■ commonly lucd, pnrti-
culnrly for tliBtvinpiT. u lirrc. from llic great irritabilitjr of the dog's stomuch,
enteiic larlsr it tnudiiii»niblc, — Fl>.
K K.
3
4«e
before tliat lime. Juuiper berries genenlly Tonii ■ pwl of
diuretic balU and drenches; ttiev are recommended akso in
fUtulmcjr of the stomach and bonds.
The do»e is from one lo two ounces.
Juni|M-r berries nrc ofu'n injured by keeping ; becoming dry,
^hrivi-)led, or nearly rolten. The jmrchaser should choose soai
as arw plump, ralhcT heavy, and moisi iniernally.
An oil IB obtained from juniper br dialillation, which seeim
to be tlie part on which the virtues of (be berry de{>end. Oil of
juniper is earminalivr aitd diuretic : the doae a from one dracbn
to two or threr. I( is generally highly adulterated with oil o^
turpentine; but this admixture does not injure it nmteriallv, oil
of turpentine b<-iiig very similar to it in its medical qualities,
though more powerful.
KEIIMKS MlSEnAL.— Sulp/iurStii»ahtmF>,teKm. A
r«d powder prejwred from antimony, nearly llie same as rht
golden sulphur of antimony, and recommended as an alier&tiTO,
in dtwii from one to two or lliree drachms. See Asti«ost,
and CioLDEK Suli-uur or A.vtiMony.
KINO. — Kim. Hio greater part of tlte kino used in tliii
country at present comes from the Enil Indies. It is a most
powernil asiringent, and is often successfully employed lo com*
l>at obstinate diarrhvra, red water, and otbcr diseases dependent
on a relaxed state of any organ or viscus. The dose, in sub*
stanoCt is from two to four dnicluns. A tincture of kino b
likewise made, which iimy be administered id doses of
three or four to six drachms, or more. In prescribing
tincture, it is necessary to recollect that nitrate of silver, mui
of mercury, sulplwto of iron, nectatc of lead, the alkalies, and
strong acids arc incompatible with it.
KUAMlilll.K llAniX. Kmmcria, or Ratanhy Uo«.
Tliis plant is II niitiie of I'prit, niwl fIowcr« lliroitghout tlw Tesr.
It is but littlo known in tliia country as a medicine, but has berii
very succvstfulty iited on the contlneiit in all cases reqairinf;
astringents. It is also accounted sioniacliie, imd its astringent
i|ualitieB are sucli, tlial it has frequently been employed as a
»tyiilic. It may be exhibited in the HUiie doses as kino,
LAUD. See Hoo's Lard,
LAUDANL'M. — Tinctura Opii. A popular lenn for line'
lure of opium. See Opii'm.
LAURUS CAMJ'IIOKA. See Camphor.
Lauriis Cassia. See Ca&sia.
T^StJRUS CiNN.UlOHL-M. See ClKKAUOK.
LAt'uus NouiLis. The Bav Tree. Laurel. This tree, iJi
titough a native of the south of^ tlurope, bear^ the winter of thb
country with impunity. Both the leaves and berries coiitniii an
rssejiluii oil. Tin; InlUi ate (i;en«rally brought to lu from tlie
EUO*
no b J
ftw 1
\M
AKD PIIARMACOrCEIA. 400
Mcditorrancun, and are more pungent ihan the former, which
lire priiicipiill)' ii«cfl in fonii-ntaliotis. A considernblt.- quantity
of oil is obluim-d from the berries by expression, and in oonic-
liiiK-* used a> a tlonuichic in veterinary medicine. The dose ia
from half a drachm to a drachm.
[Oil of bays form* a useful atiinulitting and digeUive oint'-
ment. — Eu.]
LAXATIVES. Meilicinvs that open the bowels moderately,
so a* to increase their secretions, without greatly stimiiliitJn;; or
irritating tlicm. They consiet of castor oil, olive, or linseed oil,
the neutral raits, such as Epsom or Glauber's salts, or even
common salt, and small doses of aloes, as in the following
formula: : —
IMXATIVE nilCKCII.
No. 1. Castor oil 1 pInL
No. 2. Sweet oil, or linseed, or rape oil 1 pint.
No. 9. Epsom aalt 6 to 12 ox.
Whey or gruel 1 C|uart.
Castor oil '. 6 to 12 oz.
Mix.
DALL.
Aloes 3 to 4 dr.
Soap 3 to 4 dr.
Syrup enough to form a ball.
LEAD. — /'/um&uin. Many useful prejinralions aro made
from this metal ; among which are the following: —
Lkad, Acetate of, or super-acetate of h'ad, commonly called
sugar of lead, is much used in making cooling lotions and eye-
was)»r«. Liquid sub-acetate of lead is commonly named Gou-
lard's Extract, and U usetl for similar purposes. See Guulaho,
LoTioss, CoLLVHiA or Evk-Wasuks, and Ointments.
Lr.AO, Red, or Minhim. This is a red powdor, made by
keeping lead in a high degree of heat : it is used in the com-
position of plasters, nnd charges.
Lead, WiiitEi is commonly made by exposing thin sheets of
lead to tlie vn]>our of vinegar, by which it is converted into a
white powder. White leaii i* often employed in the composition
of hnlinf^ and soOening oinlmenl, for horses that arc subject to
craektxl heels. See Acetate of Lead.
LIME. — CaU. This earth is rarely found in a pure state,
bat is easily prepared fiom any of its carbonates by the action of
fire. When mixed with /Oo' times its weight of water, it is
completely dis.solved, and forma lime-water, the prop<Tii<« of
which are tonic and antacid. Lime-water is recomt\wwiwA 'wx
X K 2
1
500
MATEHIA HEDICA
Ok disease tennfd diiibeies, which coiubts in « profute (lit-
cliarge of limpid urine, ouuing weakness, etnacittioii, and hcciic
fever.
1 have s«ni it weed, trowcver, in iiro cwtes without tiicceu.
Lime-water may Ix* made by mixing liint* with * Inr^r pro|)or-
lion of builtiig wnier, Ktirring the mixture for tofiie time, and
afienrards pouring off the trAnapareiit liquor, whicli is to be
carefully excluded from tlie air.
Chlorinaird Lime. — i'ah Chlffrinata. " This term \% iipplM<d
by the College of lliystcians to the compotiud of chlorim- and
lime, long known In tiie aru by the name of chloride of limr,
or blcucliiiig powder.
" It iit a vaitmble diMufeciant. hi order to uttdertiand iti
iiclion, it is necessary to bear iii mind tliat the fcelid gases gives
off during the decomposition of vegetable and aninul subUancrs
are mostly compoundi of hydrogen with certain bases. Wieo
chlorine is brought into contact with tlie^. it decomposes tlietn,
in consequence of the great affinity it baa for hydrogen, with
wliicb it unites, and sets the bases free.
" Mr. Yoiiatt, in 18i>8, and afterwBr<lfi Mr. Simpson, Mr. Hoi-
ford, and Mr. Kerr, tn the pages of the VftrriHarian, have drawn
the attention of veterinary surgeons to this valuable compound
in fistulous affections, open joints, canker, and in eases of grewt.
But it will be found serviceable in nuiny other dismses. To
Mr. Youatt wc arc in<lel)li-d for its introduction as a remedy tn
hoven in cattle, and lymuanilis in the horse, being given in
doses of from two to four drachms suspended in water. A solu-
tion of it. in the proportion of a pound to a gallon of walfr,
is recommended as un application for mange by Mr. Lucu
of Liverpool ; and in slight. attacks it will be found of service.
"This solution may be employed as an ordinary excitant ol*
wounds, and particularly in such as have taken on unhealtliy
action. Ill fact, I feel assurc<l tliat the more tliis compouod it
known, the more highly it will be prised.
" It will be found extremely useful for purifying stables rrn-
dered K>ul by the virus of glanders, inange, or any other coti-
tagious disease, the walls being washed with • diluKnl solution
of it.
"The common practice of merely wliiiewaahing the wilti
cer\-cs only to cover the infectious matter, and, perhaps, t« pre-
serve it for an indefinite length of time, so that, when the lime
scales olF, disease may be again engendered by the ex{io»ed
virus.
" In pliagadonic and farcy ulcen, tlvc chlorinated lime
S)>rinkl(.-<l ovi-r (Ik-iu has quickly induced a licaltliy condition,
and the healing process has soon been perfected.
" TJie pharmacevHwaV com^wwAs s-rt, —
I
AVI) rHAHMACOI-ffllA.
501
SOLUTION OP ClILOItlVATED I.IMB.
Tttkc of Chloi-inaled lime I pound.
Distilled vraiar 1 gallon.
Set iisidc, and GJtcr lor use as required.
*' Of this strengili it is iiRed for mange, and iw » stimulant
and mild (-rodent to ill-condiilont-d wound.i luid flitulout sores.
Diliiiod with from ten to fifteen times its bulk of water, it may
l>e einployctl to form an antiseptic lotion for virulent grease,
exfuli»tiii}r bone, &c.; also for the formution of poultices, and ns
a diaiiifvctant for foul stables.
OIKTMENT OP CHLOniNATED LIMK.
^^ Take of Chlorinated lime 1 to 2 parts.
^K Hog's lard 8 parts.
1^ Mix together, so as to form an ointment.
' "Tliis compound has been had recourse to with very bene-
ficial results in ca^es of grc«se, jiarticularlv when the foetor has
I been coiisidt-rable." — Morlon't Mimual of Pharmaexf,
LINIMKNT. — Lmimmtum- A term generaily given to
externnl applications of the oily kind, but of a consistence railH.-r
thicker than oil : sometimes it is applied l« more liquid and
transparent preparations, such as soap liniment. Tlie follnwing
formulse are given as examples: —
BOAP LIHIMEHT.
^^^^H Hard soap , I OL
^^^^P Camphor , 1 os>
^^^^^ Oil of rosemary 1 OZ.
^V Rcclilied spirit' 1 pint.
I Cut up the soap, and let it stand with the spirit until dissolved,
thm add the rest.
LIKIHEMT OF AMMOKIA, Oil VOLATII.K MKtMENT.
Strong solution ofiuiiinonia 1 oz.
Olive oil 2 OZ.
Mix.
To lliis, camphor or oil of lur|>eii(ine is sometimes added;
and till.- solution of ammonia is joined, for same purposes, to the
' Koap linimenl. The soap linimetii is the same as the celebrated
I opodvldoc, and may be either solid or fluid, according lo lli«
proportion of soap used ; but it may Iw made also with soft
•""" "id is then fluid, with a larger prof>ortioii of soap- LMi-
el'erdi</na is noticed under the head F.G\PHfc*:\.'M.
K K :»
502
I»AT£IIIA MEDfCA
LINIUENT OF CAHFUOK, COMPOb'MD. ■
^^K drnplior 3 OS. H
^^B S|Hrit of lavender 1 pinL H
^H Solution of ammonia 6 oz. H
^V Mix. ^
Solution of ammonia is itamcd also liquid ammonia, and
. atrong spirit of sal ammoniac. (Sec Emdiiocatiuns.)
L LINIMKKT rOK »ai> TlltlVlillES AND CAKKEIl. h
^^ No. 1. Tar i ox. — Melt, aiid add ■
^^ft Mtu'tAlic acid 6 dr. ^M
^^^ Verdigris 4 dr. "
Mix : continue stirring until it is cold. (See article Thrusb.]
I No. a. Tar, melted lib.
Strong sulplitiric acid, by weight S ot.
Stir thorn w<-ll togvlher for sonic lime, and immiHliaielj' beTore
llie mixture is »sed.
LINSEED, or FLAX SEED. — Afw Srmina. Tliese
seeds abound with oil and muciln^f, and are well adapted to the
fomposilion of those emollient drinks that are so useful in in-
flammations of the bladder and buwelx) ch* complaints of the
urinary passages. \ strong mucilaginous drink may be mod^
. without bruising the seeds, eitlter by decoctioii or infusioa
' See Emollitints and I^ectorals.
LiNscFJi Caki:. 'I'lmt part of the linseod which i-emaini
after the oil Uax been prised uul. It is sometim<'s i^mploycd to
fatten cattle, and may be given occasionally to l>orses. Wlitn
ground it is sold as linked mcul and linseed powder, and often
used in the compoEilion of poultices.* It is an ingredient also
in most of the horse and cattle powders, and serves to
Icratc, on account of its cheapness, many of the roedici
sold in powder, as drenches for norses and cattle. It is chiefly
used fur ninlcing poultices.
Lins£i:d Oil. — Oleum Lim. Tkus oil is vometinies em-
ployed as n laxative, f It is usmI also in making |>ccland emul-
sions, and in llie oiinposilion of liniments.
LIQUOR POTASS^- Solution of Potass. See Ln,
Causi'jc.
LIQUORICE; the Root and Extinct.— O'/yryrrAiM Giabra;
Radix et Kxtnielmii. 'Hie extract made from li<inorici--rooI li
supposed to be of use in relieving congli. In itic horse it is nut
■ The lK-«t liiiMcd mm>\ for jioutticeii is thst sroand bcfute ihc <mI ti »•
iractcJ. — Fn.
^ Ijiniccil oil in a vcrj' ii*cfiil ni>orioiit tii InllnBinalar)' diaeases «fcere slon
/i iiMiimisHbLe. U i>cca«on>> no tmVouan, iMmw^ it h a|>t to iiroilun
nausea. — Ed.
AXU fHAIIMACOPOIIA.
aos
P
applicable to this purpose, as its good pITpct depends upon its
gradual solution in the moutli. so as to be coiiBtantly luhricaiing
the throat. Many writers, however, recommend liquorice in
their pectoral and cordial drencheS) probably with a view to
render them more palatable.
LITHAIIGE, or SEMI-VITRIFIED OXIDE 01'
LEAD. — Litkari/yrut, vcl Oxt/dnm Piumbi Semi-vitreum. This
oxide is ohlaincd by the simple action of heat and air upon lead.
It is employed in making Goulard's extract and diachylon
plaster.
LITMUS. This is a species of lichen. Litmus-pauer is
used in medicine as a very delicate test of the presence of ncid,
by which its blue or violet colour is changed to red. It is
gcnernlly by means of litmus-paper that the urine ia tested,
when, if a grent <|uantity of acid is found to prevail, alkalies
must be administered, and ricr vrrsd.
LIVER OF SULPHUR, or SULPHURET OF PO-
TASS.— Hepar Salpliuru, vi;\ SuIj^Mrfhtm Potassai. See Hki-ar
SuLriitJRis.
LOGWOOD. — Hirmatiixi/li I.iirnuni. .\n extract made from
logwood pos^sses a considerable ujtringeni power. It is often
employed by medical practitioners in diarrhcea depending upon
relaxation of the bowels ; an<l tliough it lias not yet been intro-
duced into veterinary practice, it would probably be found an
useful medicine in similar complaints of the horse, and deserves
a trial in cai-es wliicb have resisted the common remedies.
It may be given in doses from two to three drachms. Alum,
opium, and sonic aromatic, such as cjusia, and sometimes chalk,
arc often joined with the extract. See H.«matoxyli Lionum.
LUNAR CAUSTIC. Sw Arokkti NtTH**.
LYTT.'E. See CANTiiAnioKs.
Maceration dilTersfrom infusion only m being continue^l
Jb^ftlonj^r time, and can only be t-niployed for those substunccs
that do not quickly >jiiiii.
M.'\DDEK. — liu/iia. Thi» i« a perennial plant, and a na-
tive of the Levant, the Soulli of Europe, and Africa. The
root was formerly uxed in medicine as a remedy for jaundice.
Farriers still employ it for the same complaint (which they lenn
litewtUows) both in hoi-ses and horned callle.
The dose is about one ounce.
Madder has the singular property of turning the bones red*
providtnl its use be per.iitited in for some lime.
MAGNESIA. — Maipiaitt. A white powder, so extremely
light, that a suRieient dose could not be given to a horse without
iticonvonienee. Jt is a very useful absorbent in the human body,
and well calculated to remove heartburn, by destroying any
acidity that may exist in the stomach ; il l\as u'mi vVit^ a^i^wVe^,
K K 4
KATERU UEDICA
k.
in this complaint, of acting as a jrentlp laxalive. In the horW)
clinik, or eitlier of liw i\xeA alkalies, answers the purpose eqtullj
wdl : and if a liixativc eflV-ci be required, a small do»e of aloe
may be adilvil.
Maonesia, Sulphati: op. — Magwsite Sul/ihaa, Ejnoci
Salta. See St'i.riiATK or Maoscsia.
MALLOWS, COMMON. — Malm S^lctttri*. This !i an
annual, indij^enous plant, and| from (he mucilage it eontaiiii, it
useful in the composition of emollient drinks: fomentation),
clyster*, and poultices may also be made with it. See Emol-
lients, l''oMF.STATIOV9, Bltd Cl-ySTIlKS.
MALT is very serviceable to horses that are recovering from
fever. It is uselul, also, when the system is weakened by large
absoeoses which discharge copiously, and in almost every case
depending on debility.
It appears to be easy of digestion, nnd very nutritious, though
not so slimulaling as oala. Grei.-n mall ha§ been recommended
for improving ihe condition of horses, and giving them a sniootb,
glossy coal. Infusion of malt is soD>etimcs given with advan-
tage to sick liorses ; but they generally require to be drenched
with it. which is a great inconvenience.
MANGANESE- A metallic oxide used nrincipallv in
bleucliing. It has been employed for fumigating giandered
stables. See Fumioatios.
MARJORAM. — Orii/anum, Sweet maijoram is an annual
ulant, which is principally cultivated for culinary purposes.
Wild marjoram yields an essential wl {oleKm orifftmi), which it
much used by farriers as a remedy in strains, bruises, S:c., but
always mixed ivitlt other oils or spirits, such as oil of elder,
cuiTiphornied spirit, &c. A strong inliision of marjonun
may be einployerl as a vehicle lor carminative or cordial medi-
cine.
MARSH MALLOW. — AMtea. Tliis plant contains
rather more mucilage than common mallows, and is, therefore,
better calcutnted for making mucilaginous or emollient drinks,
clysters, or fomentations.
I'he root is ihc best part, and, if carefully dried, may be kept
a long time, 'riieso mucilaginous drinks are very useful wlien
tlie bowels or bladder aiv inflamed or irritated by loo strong
pliynie, or when lliere is any pain in the urinary passages. They
should be given frequently in tliecourseof the day,and nuty ucca-
fiioniilly he nmile the vehicle of more active medicines. Any
tiling wliicii contains mucilage in sufficient quantity iiuiy be
employed for the purpose of making emollient drinks. See
Emoli.ilnts.
Mashes, a kind of me<licated diet, and generally com-
/)03ed either of bran or tnaXv. Urvn t«u!K\«\ «t« made by i>our-
^
AM) PIIAnMACOVarA.
ing boiling wutcr on fmh twcct brsn, in a pail, so ili«t the
Riixturr, wlicii tlirrcd, may be about ilii' conEistence of a Kofl
Euulticc: it in ttii-ii lo be covorcd over, and not given to the
orw until inifficivntly cold. When it is thought tiecesiiary to
>lc?am tlitf h('»il, a« it is termed, (list ib, for the horse to inhnle
tlic vapour a* it artRei, the mH»li is put into the manger whik-
hoi; aixl some even put ii into a iiose-bng, and secure it lo th«
head, which t* a bad practice, as it impedes respiration. Sleant'
ing titf head is recommended in strangles, colds, and wrv
tiiroats.
Bhak Masiikm fonn a very proper diet in fever, and all in-
flammatory coinplainrs ; they are useful, also, as a preparative to
piiysic, serving lo remove any indurated firees ihere may be in
ihe bowels, whereby tlie operation of the medicine is rendered
more safe and elTectual.* Mashes are a necessary diet, also,
while the physic is operating. In making mult Riasliea, the water
should be below the boiling point, otherwise the malt will dot
and be sjwiled. These ore given for the purpose of recruiting
strength, when a horse is debilitate<l from fever, or any other
caufe. (See Malt and KKSToicATtvts.) When a horse has been
fed high for some time with oeiIs and beans, a change to a diet
of bran mashes for two or three davs will often do a great deal
of good. The bran should be fresii, and perfectly free from any
unpleasant or musty smell. There is a liner kind of bran,
named gurglings or'pollard, which, though much more nutri-
tious, is not so fit for medicinal purposes.
MEADOW S.VFFRON. — Co/rJ((«Hi. Auhimitale. This is
an indigenous perennial plant, generally found growing in rich
meadows, and flowering m September. The root is a powerful
diuretic in the human system, but its elTect on the horse is not
known. An account was published in the New Monthly Maga-
zine some time since, of seven yearling catlic having been poi-
soned by eating meadow salTron.
MEUCCUrAL& Pre^rationa of quicksilver or mcreurjr.
MEBCUitiAL Oi^iwz^T. — Ungaentvm Ifydrarff>f»-i. This is
made by rubbing togeiher, in a mortar, ouicksiK'er and hog's
lard, in various proportions, according to the strength reauired,
until the former disappear, and the mixture assume a darlc blue
or lead colour.
In the strongest mercurijd ointment of tiie shops, ihere are
equal parts of quicksilver and lard : these are (he bi-st propor-
tions in which it can be made, as tt is easily rendered weaker
afterwards, by the addition of liird. In medical pnwtice, this
ointment is employed chiefly for the pnqjose of introducing the
quicksilver into the system, which is done by rubbing it for sotno
* Bmn ii in iticlf n inilil UxHtive From tliu tltidou» pnniclo wliirh It con-
tuna ecling iiicchtini cully un ihe liitMtiiic*.
n
lUTSBU nwcA
cm*! ii H Bhiijr, aaa utnuft bm)>v ukdyt M
aM ■iwiwifciii nd Ud aaUn, dm fram
r. M ariw from « ^mp
■wMn. xbma mxn drinking brackisli
CUbtDtt, \ttewinuj ProfeMor «t Milan, has ob-
wrtvd, chat aiwliy carp** «ftrr bcin« *oine months n«ar ihe
»««. h*>e ben ■flgi«M«h noeb aflceiM witli fiiri^.
MINT.'— MmAm. Tin »• nimble herb, and grom hrre
wcy abwudidl. Tfanv arr two kinds used in medicine. tIi^
ThiMi wiiil {Jiifwrts /vidu), and Peppermint ( JiauAti /^^peribi].
1b» faran- is an rxoeUent canntnatiTe, and generally sflbrds
frbef io ftandcnee af the iiomirh and bovel^ and that com-
pUot which aran fiwn it, termed gripes, fret, or flatulent
oofie.
BUywntmt. boTrrr, is oonMdrrabtr stronger, and, I iliiuic,
nee* ematn in its edcct. All the rinites of mint reside in aa
oil, vhidb it aflordi plentifully by distillation ; and this is the
moat oanmiient form ia which it can be employed for veterinary
pofpoan i bat it miuircs to be highly dtlaieti with water, with
wbieh it nrikCi vrnr readily, if previously dtioolved in a smal!
nfopofftioa of rertiBri fpirit, or nibbed in a mortar with mnci-
We and aagv. See E^«uics.
The dote of oil of peppermint b from twenty dn^ to half a
dtachw ; of spearmint fivHn forty drops to one uraclim.
This is generally found a ■uffidrat quantity, but it may be
iacfcaied if it prove ineflectoaL
A solotion of oil of peppermint, in rrcti£ed spirit, b tM
under the name of EaKnoe of Peppvnnint ; one pan of ibe oil
lu titrre of spirit i» the strrngtb of which I prrccnbr it. A
strong inAision of the dried herb is a good vehicle for more
active medicine ; and, with a glass or two of gin may be gi^vti
for flatulrot colic or gr^wSi when other medicine cannot be
procurrd.
MOXA. A l^ht fibrons auhataoce, somewluit like %'crT line
tow. In eastern countries it is employed to rrniore dccp-seatcd
pains, bdng M-t on lirr on tlic affected part, so as to burn and
produce an eschar; it is, ihcrcfbre, nothing more (lian the
actual cautery, which i* much nrare conveniently applied in
vctcrifiAfT practice by means of the hot iron. See Firing.
Ml ClLAGE. — MiteibffiK The mucilage commonly em-
ployed is made by dissolving gum arable in waicr. Then- are
Other chea()er gums, however, that will answer the same pur-
pose; mucilage may be made also from quince seeds and
stardi. For internal um>, it is mo«t dicaply and abundaoilv
obtained from flax seed (mixed, however, with oil), or as it is
more coranK>nly named, linM-t-d. Eight ounces infused in two
or three quarts of boiling water form a good mucila^ See
''caaa Vsaa.
AND PHARMACOPOEIA. 509
MURIATES. ComMtiations of muriatic acid, will) alkalies,
eurtbi or nictuls.
Ml'riatf. of Ammonia. Ammoiiiie JV/uWtu. Tliis is com-
monly named crude m\ animoiiiac, nnd when dissolved in
vinpcnr has been found a useftd applicalton. 1 have employed
the lollowiiif( formula for splenic when in a stale of iiiHainiiia-
tion : —
Murialc of ammonia, powdered S dr.
Vinecar 1 ok.
Alcohol 1 02.
Water S oc
Mix.
Muriate op Copper. — Cuprl Muria*. A solution of ver-
digris in muriatic acid or spirit of salt. 'Iliis is a goo<l mild
caustic, and may be diluted occasiouallv »ith water.
Muriate of Lime. See Calcis ^It]RlAB.
Muriate op Mercury, Oxt and Sub. — Jfydraryyri Oty-
murias et Sabrfiarim. OxyDiuriate of mercury is more com-
monly known bv the name of corrosive eubtimate (see Subli-
mate), and su^imuriate of mercury by lire name of calomel.
See Cai-omel»
Muriate of Soda. — Soda Muria*. Common salt, or tlie
salt employed with food, 'i'his is an excellent tnxaiive for
cattle, and in small doses promotes digestion. Mow-bunit bay,
or bad bay of any kind, is made more palatable lo liorses and
cattle by being moistened with water in which a small quantity
of salt has been dissolved, and it is, perhaps, rendered more
easy of digestion also.
MUSTAllD. — Sinapis. Though chiefly employed for
culinary purposes mustard deserves a place in our Materia
Medica both a'i an internal and externnl medicine. When flour
of mustard is made inlu a thin paste with water, and earefully
rubbed on the skin for some time, tt exciteit considemblr in-
llamniiitioit and sweUinj;. 'lliis properly renders it nwfid in
cases of inieninl inflammation, particularly when the bowelx or
lungs arc affected. This paste i« rendered stronger by the ad-
dition of oil of turpentine. See Kmbkocatioks.
Mustard may be given iuternally, with good effect, in case*
which rer|uire stroii^t iitimulanis.
MUTION suet. — .4rf*-/«Oe.7/.«. Tlie principal use of
ibis fat is in the formation of ointments.
MYRRH. — Mi/rrha. This is a gum resin, produced by a
tree or plant that is found principally in Araoia Felix and
Abyssinia. It has a pleasant odour, and a bitter pungent taste :
is much used in medical practice, ns a tonic and stinnilaril, and
may probably be employed with good effect for horses in weak-
K10
^
^
nvtt of tttomacli, diminiehetl appetiip, and imperfect digefltion ;
in sucli casfii it iiui)' be given in dusrs from one (o (lirce draohmi,
with iibout Iwo drachins of aloes and a little soap ; some gitger
ulso nmy be occasionally added ; it 'u often jmned wiili pre>
pumtioiiK of steel or iron.
'llten; ia a timpie and a compound tincture of m^Tfh sold by
druggists. The former is lliui made : —
Mjrrii 3 oz,
lU-clifH-d spirit ».'i lbs.
Mnot-rate fourteen day*, and »imin.
llic compotiiid tincltire is thus prepared : —
Aloes 4 ox.
Myrrh 3 do.
RcetiRvd spirit 2 lbs.
Water I do.
Macerate fourteen day», frequently ihuking it.
The first linctnre b useful in ulcers in tlie moulht but th«
latter is more commonly employed witli horse*, being an ex-
cellent application to all wounds.
NARCOTICS. Medicines that stupify and produce sleep;
such at opium, &c.
NIGKTSHADE. See Beulauonsa.
NITRATE OF POTASS.— /Vowa Wftm, Niti*. or
saltpetre. A neutral salt, formed by the combination of nitroiu
acid and potash. This is a medicine of great utility in relcn-
iiury practice, and highly esteemed by veterinarians. It pos-
sesses acooling and diuretic property, which renders it ex tremel;~
useful in fevers, and all inflammatory complaints.
In fe%-prs, it is often joined with emetic tartar and digital
with good effl-ct. In calurrh, or cold, nitre is a useful remedy;
and in trotiblcsomc coughs it often gives relief.
The usual do«c of nitre is about one ounce, tliou^i farrien
often give double that quantity, or more: but in such largo
docGS it is apt to irritate the stomach, and do mischief; theiv-
fore, in uruent cases, half an ounce may bo given every iburth
liour, in wnieh way iliere will be Ins danger of its producing
tliat elTecl, particularly if it be given in a mucilaginous drink,
or in water gruel.* II nitre be given in the form of » ball, it ia
adviscable to otFiT some water immediately before or a^er, or to
wash it down with a horn full of water gruel.
NITRATE OF SILVF.R. Soe Aroe.vti Nitbas.
NITRIC AND NITROUS ACIDS. See Acid, Nithous.
NUX VOMICA. A poisonous vegetable; the fruil or die
* Even 111 (tiia Ji»i- it aliudlJ iml be conlinunl hcjondaiingledajrj In such
abort prricids it will gmtly irriiuc xVt uriiurj- orgwu.— Bn.
I
A31D PIIAUMACOrceiA. All
»ecd of the StricliDOH Nitx Vomica* A small qunntity will
destroy <\o^ rat», nr niicf. It Iibs bccti givt-ii to tlic human
subji-ct it> cpilvpsy and tlysaitcry. but is now rarely used, being
considered a dangerous medicine.* M. CoUaine, Profeesor of
tho Vetcriiiury Scliool at Milan, in a treatise on glanders, saySi
*' 1 detennin<-d oti mnkitij^ a linul experiment on two farcied
borsM with the iiux voniicit, which 1 fjave to the extent of two
ounces a day to each of iheni, beginnni}^ with a dose of half ft
drachm, inoniiiig and evening.
" The nlcert on the skin became ttationarv, and assumed a
red healthy nppcMirance, but nlwut the ninth day one of llie
hors*-* wiw Httiu:ked with spasms nearly of the whole body,
which induced nie to pul an end to my experiments and the suf-
feriuf^s of the uniiiiat by niiining him to be shot. It is neciwary
to olwerve tliat tlii-sc two horses, before ihcy took the nnx vomica,
had taken the extract of <^«oniVe or Wolf's Uime (sec AiroMTi/M),
which, ill the dose of one ounce and u half daily, caused con«
t>iderable depression and weakness without lesseniii^ the dis-
order (liircy), altliotij^h the same medicine hud, in less than ten
days, removed the di^eiije in » hor^e l>clonging to iinother
regiment, that )uid the hind leg much »woIlon, and covered with
* Strvt-lirilu l« (he Ibrni in wliii:h iiux voi<i1i:ii is usuully exiiiliited iiicdici*
nallf. It in prrpnrcil. hj' nii rinlioniic [imcru, IVoin llic mix vomku, thu
active princi|ib of which it comninii. It i« llitia ipokcn of lij Mr. Morion: —
*' Strjclmiu JH ill tile form of minute cryntuts, wliicli nvn colourltni biiJ in-
odorous ; (>o«»ciiiiiig Hii intensely bitter tasti-, requiring betwcrii 0000 mul
iDOO porti of riild uiil<-r for it» inlulion, nnil insoluble in nlisohiic nlcoliol ;
hut by diluted nlcoliol, ^[leciflc gruvily -H'M, it ii dissolved readily. It ncia
like tli« alkaliea on vi-gi-tuble colours, and unites nitli the uciils, runuiiig
■ullit
*' Strychnin hni liern lounil of service in ciMCS ornnrulysit in the boric nnd
chorea m the dog. li.i pctiun i> very powerful, nnd itt use rnlli (or caution.
The ilote for t)ii: liorsi- niiiy be from I (o 3 STiiins twici; in the dny, coiTibintna it
wiib tlie vcf^-einbtc tnnlen; iliut fur (he (Tog ft«in ^ to 1 of n (;rain. Its in-
fluence is ronjccturctl to be on ilie motor imct of the Kpinnl chord, uhieb it
povcrfuUy stimubtci, and thus restores the lost power of llic luiincuUir
system.
" Wlien long exhibited, ur if given in tao lurne a qunntity, the limbs nill be
•Ecn to ircmblo, nud convulsive pnrox)'«m« will be induci'd by ibn tlighlrit
noises. SaiDdinici, in ibc Jofi, all pover of retaining the erect position
iJiuing the period of ili influence a losli ibc kiilneys arc ulsu excited into
iiicrra»eil nctioii by it, nnd the urine Is voided Inioliitiliirily. On the hi>i't.c,
when injuilirii^nsly gtten, it i* hIso very powerful in its opcriition : liftccii
graini hsve proved tiiflicicnt to deitrny life in ihnt nniiDDl.
'■ Tlic [loiencv of this ngcnl, mid the long jirotnicted, und oJlcn inciiralile
^Ldtsetvict in which it bus been found to affbrJ relief, ourntnt lis introduction as
^^R vclcrinury thprnnculic'
' I linvc exhibited thit meilidnr' with inuch ndvnnt^cin cntea ofporalviii of
llie hind extremity in n dog, A.iiiited by tetuns on the loins, It wss foilowvd
fey the rtsturalioii of muscular action. I lit>i« found, however, ihnt the six-
tcciilh psxt of n griiiri [')i>dtK-etl much loo violent on dtect on K rnnull do^. nnd
would rrconinicid (he ihiriidh psrt of n grnin lo begin with, rciKiiting it
altcmnle days, and ^rudunlly increoiing the date. — Eo.
1
SIS
UATBRIA MKDICA
L farcy sores. Thi» liorec, howt-vcr, was in connomieiwc aBwtea
niili grvat difficulty of tirenthiiiffi vrbicli i-ontinu(Hl ten or twelve
daj-a, or until lite swelling; uiid tarcv appeared asain,"
OAK BARK. — CffrUx QMfT<^ A dwoMwn of oak bark
I is a good vehicle for toiiic and astringent modkiii««, Vtlien
fiiu'ly powdert-d and given a> a drench wiili ginger, it may be
of service in iliuAe complainlf^ the continuance of which depend
ii))on debility. It 'w taid, huw-ovcr, to be initcl) lees eflicacioui
ttmn Peruvinn bnrk, yet wh<-n ilutt cannot be procured, it may
be fouiKl u nM^ul substitute. The dos^ it about two ounce*.
OATS. — Avakt Satint Semina. In the choicf of oats lor
horses, such tu are perfectly frf« from unplcaMint or mosty
»nw\\ jiboidd be preferred ; also such aa are heafy and clean.
NVw (mu are injunoin, rather difficult of digestion, atKl apt to
wour, but ibis quitlity ni.iy he, in a great measurci corrected by
drying ttu-ni gradually on a kiln, or by sit'ing with tlwm a
I ainall jiroportion of split )>ean9, atid some clover cut into chalT:
when thin cannot be hod. a small quantity of wheat flour may
be given in the hoisc's waler^ c&pecially if the home already
ftcoui'Si and then titc chill of his water should be taken otT; a
email cordial lull may be necessary on such occisioiis if the
animal hut any extraoidiiiary nork to do, btit, under »ucli cir-
cumstances, even moderate work might be hazardous. Nothing
b mor*.' liable to produce diseases in horses than .beinj; led oa
nusty oats, that is, oats iJiat have been heated hy l>fing krtit
on hoard a ship, or in large heaps williuut bc-iiig frvipii-tilly
turned. I liavc known coach and post hor&e proprietors suffi-r
the most serious losses from this cause; it cannot, therefun-, \x
too carefully guarded against. Food should be so f|;iven tlut
digestion may go on without intcrrnption, as many hor«ct Iiaie
I been destroyed by takini; titcm out and putting them to tiukk
jgrork imon a full stomach. Brui>(iiig oais, as well as Ixvitu, liir
Hlorw* l> a great advantage ; and, upon emergencies, ontmtal
[or wlu'nt flour rnixi-d up with a little water will be found lo
afTi>rd nuirimctit and vigour without encumbering Ihe stomach.
I am satisfied that iIiusvcom-s ofgri|>es or llatulent colic which
so often occur among pott and coach Itorse* an? brought on by
iodigeaimn ; and what in so likely to cause indigestion an violent
i exercise upon a lull aiomaeh, ea{>ecially when the food is of a
'bad quality, and the atonmch in a morbid or weakened slalCi
which is often the cose with post and stageH:uiich horses?
When there is a necessity lor using new oab^ and especially
when any stock of such oats is lo be kept, they ihoutd be dried
on a kiln very gradually. They may then be much iniproveil,
and, probably, that process may be completed which had been
ptit u stop to by removing them from the mow.
OILS. — 0/wi, OiU arc either y!fji\/ or voiatU'-, Tlie former
AND raARHACOraiA. 513
ar? procured tVom varJoiiH anlmnl And ve'firetahir subslanceti,
generally by mt-aiis nl' preiittirt" hih! lit-al, from wliich circutn-
Kiancc, tlipj' liave also bts^ii named fjrprefsed oih ; and are Icrined
fixed, because tliej- do not evajioratc, except at a very high tem-
perature, when ihey are decomposed. VoUitiU nih, ou (be
contrary, evaporate very readily, and are gctiernlly obtained
from Vegetables hy diuillalion; and as they commonly contain
all tbe e^ential qualities of the substance they arc procut^d
from, have aUo been named etstnliai oih. The various oils are
noliced under tbe name of the substance from which tln^y ara
obtained.
The numerous oRicinal oils, directed in the old dtspeniacorieR,
are still highly esteemed by farriers; among which are, Oil of
Swallows, li^arthworms, John's-wort, Spike, Petre, &c; and we
frequently meet witb reccipls for " siraiti or bruise oils," in
which more than a doxcn liifferent oils arc ordered I Perhaps
it may bean acceptable piece of information to (hose who place
any confidence in these oili, tlmt only three kinds are kept in
the shops, from which this great variety is furnished ; which are,
oil of elder, oil of turpentine, and Burbndoes tar. Oil of spike
is made by colouring oil of liirpenline wIlli alkanet root; od of
peti'e, by dissolving Barbadoes lar in the same oil : for all ihfi
Other kinds, oil of rider is Hold; and ihia is often made by co-
louring common oil witb verdigris.
Oil of Almonds. — Olmm Amygiiald:. A very sweet and
pure oil, obtained either from sweet or bitter almonds, by ex-
pression.
Oil op Bat. — OUum Lauri NMIU. This is more like an
ointment tlian an oil, is of a light green colour, and smell* like
bay berries, from which it is ])rocured. It is tised chiefly a> an
external application in cutaneous complaints, such as the mange.
Oil of bay is sometimes substituted lor bog's lard in making
mercurial ointment, and is supposeit to render it more active.
\^lien to this mixture are added caiiiliarides and oil of origanum
n strong blixtur in formed, which is recommended for tne re-
moval of splents and spavins.
[This oil derives its stimulating effects from the prussic acid
which it contains. It assiata tlie effect of blisters, and may he
used to dress rowels or setons. — Ed.]
Oil or Ca.ieput. — Olfum Cajfpultt. See Cajepl't Oil.
Oil of Caraways. — Oleum Carui. See Cakaway.
Oil of Castor. — Oleum liieini. An useful laxative
Tbe doae is about a pinu (See Castor Oil.)
Oil of Elder. — Oleum Sambiui. See Eldkr.
Oil op Jt;NtPER. — Oleum Juniperi. See Juniper.
Oil of Linseko. — Oleum Lini. This also has a laxative
L L
MATRH
quality ; the eetd-drmm oil is prrferrcd ; 1. 1. lh«t which » n-
pivfiMHl from (he sevd without the awistancc of hrat.
Oil or Olives. — Oleum OHv«s. This n)m m n very pure
and swcrt oil; and in the doso of a pint KMicrallr oifcratc* » a
taxattvc Wlii-n castor oil cannot be es'tily procured, \\\\* nuy
with grt^t proprieiy be Fiib^ti tilted for it. It is ti*cd also in
tnakinti; emuliiions, linimeiits, mv\ ointments.
On. or Palm, or I'alm Oil. — CW^ihw Palma; Olmm Cori
Buitfracea. This, tliough termed an oil| ift of tlii; con>i»lcnce of
hug's Inrd, and very similar to it in iu medical qualiiies. It ia
of a yellow colour, and has rathi-r an ngrn-nble Kniell. It ii
prepared from (he fruit of the Coco« ButymccTii or Mackaw
tree, o native of Soutlt Anicrka. The fruit it of a triangular
shnpc, yellow, ami a.% largje as a plum, and its kernel \K*ldl
the Eubsianee known by i)h- mime of Pulm Oil. It U frrqueutly
imitated by axunge coloured with tumieric, And scented with
Florentine Iris root.
Palm oil forms u useful substitute for lard in die composition
oroinlnM'nIa.
OiuorTuitPF.sTtME.— O/nun Trrrbin/Aina, SeeTi'ftri-STist
Oil or ViTRtoi_ — Acidum Sulptiuricum. See Acid, Sul-
PHIIIIIC.
OINTMENTS. — Un^nttn. Extenni applications com-
poaed generally of Inrd, suet, inllow, bee*' wax, oils, resins, ood
turpentines. The followinj^ are iltoae most rre<{uciit]y wonted,
and commonly kept ready prepared; —
SIMPLE OINTUKST.
OlifeoU 1 lb.
Bees' wax „ Sox.
Palm oil 2 oz.
Melt over a slow fire, and continue stirring until cold.
For common purposes, hog's lard makes a ptoA simple otnl-
mem, but is apt to become rancid by keeping llie simple
ointiiK'iit iiKiy Ik- readily converted into a detergent, n digestil^
or ail iwiriii^eiit, by the addition of red preeipilate, Vfrdij{ri«,l_
blue vitriol (iiiely powdered, finely powdered alum, aupenceiatc
of lead i^tn^ar of lead), or a solution of sulmcelate of lewd (Gwi-
lard"! tJttraet of lead). The following is a very useful ointment
for chopped heels, harness galls &c.
OOULAKO OlItTMEHT.
Simple ointment 1 lb.
Solution of suh-acetate of lend, com-
monly called Goulard's extract (by
me.-mire) ii oz.
Olive oil , I oz.
AKD PHARHACOr<KIA. 616
Melt Uie ointment by a rory gentle lieat, and when melted
add the oil. lh«n let it be rcinoi-vd Trom the fire, and mir id llie
Ooulard'a pxtract: contintic stirring until cold.
SULPHURIC OINTMENT.
Oil of turpentine 8 oz.
Sulphuric acid (by measure) S oz.
Mix caulioiislv in the open nir, or in a chimney, in a verael
larze enough to hold one pound and a halt'; stir the mixture,
and,' when perfectly combined, add one pound and a lialf of
bog's lard: continue stirring imtil cold.
DIOBSTtVe OINTMENT.
Hog's lard 1 lb.
Common turpentine I lb. — Melt, and add
Verdigris 3 oz.
Continue stirring until cold.
HOOr OINTMENT.
Tallow lib.
Tar lib.
Melt, continue stirring until cold.
In concluding this article, it is right to observe, that oint>
vents are not so commonly applied to wounds or inflameil partly
•a they were formerly ; and tliat powders, lotions, or wa*l>es,
and fomentations are often found more efficacious. See Astaim*
OP.NTS, DlOEsTIVES, DcTKROENTS, EsCllAROTICS, CAt/STtCS,
EuOLI.IIlNTSi Hl.ISrERS, &c.
OPIUM. The inK[iisiiatc<l Juice of the White Poppy.
This is one of the most important articles of the Materia
Medica.
It is classed among the narcotic leciatives, of which it is un-
doubtedly the most useful.
Opium is broiij;ht to this country in chests from Turkey and
India. Thi! Turkey opium is in tint pieces, covered with leaves
and the reddiih cjipsult^ of some tiptvirs of dock, whii-h is con-
sidered an indication of ila goodiieits, ns tiie inferior kinds of
opium hare none of these capsules adhering to ilietn. Turkey
opium generally contains about one fourth |>arc of impurities.
Indian opium is less pure; is in round masse*, covered with
leaves to the thickness nearly of one fourth of an inch. Mr.
Kerr relates that, at Iluhur, it is fre<)uently adult<'nite(l witli
cow-dung, the extract of the poppy procured by boiling, and
various otiier substances. It is mode also from lettuces in
India.
In Malava it is mixed with oil of iteHinium, which is o(^v\
L L 2
i
«1S
matehu hedica
une hair of the mass; ashea, and the dried leavM of the plant,
mrc also u»kI. Opium it i^arded m bod, when it is either very
•oft or friable, of an iniensety black colour, or mixed witli manjr
impuriiiek.
In HatuleDCV or epasm of the bowels it is an excellent remedy,
(narticularly if joined with aromatic powdor, ginger, or Mxnc
other stimulant. In diarrhora it is an effectual remedy, but
must be given cautiously. In diabpie» I have fotind it very b<y
neiicia], when joined wiih bark and ginger. Someltmes it ti
given with emetic tartar, and some cordial composition, with
good elTecl, and in tlits way it proves a good diaphoretic.
1 have given opium and squill, in obstinalv cotighs, with sue*
cess; but the ciTt-ct is not pennai>enl.
Opium is Very apt to pnxluc*- c<Mlivenr«« in horws; but this
tendency may be in a great miiuiire counteracted by excrci*e;
when it does take place, it may be removed by dystvrs, hna
maslK-s, or a laxative ball.
The medium dose of opium ishalf a drachm, ton dmchm ; but if
given in the form of clyitcrs, which it sometimes in with tlte best
effi-ci, two drochniH will nut be too much.
The diseases of the hor»e, in which o]>ium ix most beneficial,
are locked-jaw and flatulent colic; in the former it has hern
given in larije doso, with tin- be»l effect, generally joined widi
camphor, and so[neiiiiH<s with assafcctida and other antispu-
inodics. In flatulent coUc smaller doses have bet'n found suit*
cieiit, which liavf gi-nt*rnlly been joined with iwirl spirit of
nitre, and other eaniiiniiiivi--i. 'J'hc medium dun- of the tinc-
ture, prepared according to tlitr London Diipcn.iiilory, is one
ouiKje, and of nolid opium, purified, a draclim. Half an ounce of
purified opium, according to Hoardman, was given to a Itorse at
one do^ ; he slept through the daytime for eight or nine houn,
and could not he easily roused. In locked-jaw, tlie santc author
nrescril>es three drachms of purified opium eveir tlirev or four
hours, with camphor and salt of hartshorn, of each half an
ounre. But Mr. Wilkinson, who hjis succeeded in twenty-four
ca:*es of locked-jaw, gave only one drachm of common opium, with
the same quantity of camphor and as»afcelida : but he gradually
increased the dose, and went, in some cases, so far as lo iwo or
three dnichms.* In the human body opium is sonietimes rm*
ployefl exiernally, and is said to be almost as eflicacious as when
taken into [lie stomach, pmdiicing ila narcotic effects without
affecting the head, or causing nausea; but in llie liorse it is not
likely to be useful in this way. Of late years I have generally
* In inllaminalion of tlic bnwels opium hua been eniplojod vitli gmt iik
vantage in doic* of one ilrnrhni.
C'uitibiiivil with CMbflicI it has been pvcn la ilJiiiiHS iif lluiljuii. md in lliil
cOinbiiiniion is useful in dj«ei\tcrj.— .fio.
I
AND PHAKMACOFCEIA. 517.
' tuH opium iu the form of a spirituous tincture, as kept in the
aliopt, in preference to the watery soluiion or mixture'; tlii-rc
ra«v be cases, however, in which ihc spirit may be improper,
and then the watery mixture should be preferred. Opium is
decxMiipo^rcl by ammoniii, potash, and ^oda, and their »ub-oiir-
bonntea, morphia being precipitated, uUo by most metallic i&\i»
and infuuon of gall*; such combinations should thererore be
avoided: but, in combination with vinegar, the vegetable acids,
and oil, in strength or narcvtic power is said to be ratlier in-
creaaed, being thoroughly extracted.
The mode of purifying opium, prescribed in the London Dis-
pensatorv, is to dissolve it in proof spirit, then filter the solu-
tion, and evaporate in a water balli to the required convi'tience ;
but u more ready way, though not so elfeclual, is to dry il carc^
fully by a moderate heat, powder and sift it. The »ievf will
keep back many of the- impurities, when this is carefully dune.
Opium is an article of so much importance, that it appeared
necessary to notice it particularly, and at some length. I'here
is a vinous tincture of opium sometimes used in diseases of the
human eye. I have found !t very useful in chronic tnf1amn)a-
(ion of the horse'ti eye, applied undiluted. If, however, ten
parte of distilled water be added to six parts of tincture of
opium, the strength of wine of opium will he (ibtuined, and the
mixture will be appiicnble for the same purpose* in the horse.
[Opium contains two peculiar vegetable compounds, in which
its power resides: one of these is an alkaline tiubsiance, called
morphia ; the other does nut possess similar chemical properties,
and has received the name of narcotine. Morphia exists in
opium, in combination with a peculiar acid, called the nieconic
acid ; and the salt is termed meconate of inorpliia. The acid
has no narcotic power.
Morphia may also be obtained by adding a solution of am-
monia to one of opium in acetic acid; the acetate of morphia
formed is decomposed, and the morphia is immediately precipi-
tated of a brownish colour, which may be removed by boiling in
water with animal charcoaL
Although it seems sufficiently proved that morphia possesses
the characteristic properties of opium, yet its strength is not
commensurate with its apparent concentration ; and, when un-
combined, it exerts but little action, in consequence of its
^^ptolubility.
^^K * The tincture of opium or Ikudanum mn; be thiii {irciiarcd ; —
^^M Soliil opium S) oi.
^H Proof vpirtt S pinl*.
^" Maceroie 1+ Jn>«, frequently ihnking it, sfter wliicli it may be Mraioed or
not. Dote, one oinicn.
L L a
StS MATinU MEDICA
It is snppoted thai the excitement which opium produce* i«
owing to nnmnine, and the »ubiset|uent ledativr effect more par*
ttcularly to morphia. — Ed.]
OPODKMXX'. — /.t'titm^/irnu Saponis Qmpotitum. Thii
Fis made by chgi-siing tlirec ounces of so«p in a j>im of ipiril of
Irosenuiry iinlil it be diisolved, and (Iteii adding one ounce of
csinp)K>r. It is either li(|uid or solid. Tlie former, what
mndt^ with aott soap ; the Utter, when with Itard soap. In the
Ltolid state it Kems to be the same as the celcbrutcd Sleer'i
<Oj»odeidoc. See art. Embkocatioxs and Likiments.
Ii ■■ employed for strains and bruises, after the inflammuiion.
whidi alwa^ accompanies ihoae complaints at first, lias sub-
aided.
U<lVtD OPOOEttlOC, OR SOAP LINIUEKT.
Soft soap 4 ox.
Water 8 oz.
Mix, and add to the mixture one pint of reciified spirit of
wine, io which there has been previously dissolved
Camphor 9 01.
Oil of rosemary 1 ox.
steer's oporeldoc
Hard ^oap ^ oz.
Rectilicd spirit of wine 6 ox.
Camphor , ^ oz.
Oil of i-osemary S dr.
Oil of lavender, or oil of origanum 'i dr.
Compound spirit of ammonia 4 oi.
Digest in a moderate heat, »o as to di»olve tbe soap, wltich
ahould be cut up in ttiin sliavings. Tlipse preparation* are
expensive; therefore the following may bo substituted for
them : —
VBTERINABY OPODELDOC.
Soft soap 4 oc
Water * g oz.
Mix over the fire ; wl>en cold add
Rectified spirit I pinL
Oil of rosemary 3 ox.
Strong liquid ammonia 4 ox.
Mix.
(See Kmbholatioks and Linimckts.)
ORIG.\NUM. Marjoram. Tlie essential oil of wild mar-
joram i» much u>«d b; t»mcni «a Mt ingredient in their strain
AKD PHARMACOrtEIA. 519
oils, or mixtures for bruises. It h a very powerful stimulanit
and capable ol' doing much liarni in iliosc complaints: it ia
Bometiiiiea mixed with mercurial oiutiiiciii, oil of baj, and can-
tharidn. to tbnn strong blisters. See Blistkhs.
ORPIMENT. This is a combination of artcnic with sul-
phur and iron. (See Ahsbnic.) In " Markham's Mtutcr Fireen'*
and some other old books on farrieiTp', the nosirJU of glaiidercd
hor«;« are directed to be fumijjated with yellow arsenic mado
inio pastils or cakes, with frankincense and elecainjmne : noine
apparent cures are said to tiave been effecled in this way, but
prolwbly the runninf; was only suspended a short lime ; and wc
know c-nonKh of (he disease to be satisfled that the cises, sup-
poecfl to linvc Ikhii llius cured, either were not really llie glan-
ders, or ihat il w)i» only a icmpomry removal or stoppage of [he
dischar^fe from llio iiostriI«. Tlic fumij^alion of the nostrils
witli yvllow aracnic is not only incfTeciual in plnndcis, but
likely to prove injurious both to the patient and llic operator.
Yellow arKCiiic, made into an oinimeni with lani, lui« been rc-
continended for wartx, but tt is a very dangcnmii uppliraiion ;
and besides, warm can ulwiiyit be i^Hectually and Hiiely removed
by the knite from any part of ihi- Ixidy.
There is a secret meihod uf curing fistula, putli'vil, and
quiitor, employed by ceri.iin farriers, which often cures and
olien does nmch Injury. Their remedy ii orpimcnt mixed with
lard. 'I'he cures iliey make are always made known, but the
mischief they do escapes notice, or is concealed. Lunar cuuilic,
or blue vitriol, und ilie knife, will accomplish, with safety and
C«nainiy, all that can be accomplished in tnosc diseases.
OXlOInlS. Any simple substance, in combination with a
smaller quantity of oxygen than is requisite to form aii acid, is
kTmn] an oxide.
Oxinn ov ZrNc. — Oxifdum Ztwi, See Fi.owEn« or ZiKC.
OXYUKN. A constituent jvirt of iitmosplieric air, without
which it would Ite unfit for nnpiratioii. In breathing, the air
it Fctidered impure by the exhalations from the lungs., and, at
tlie same time, we deprive it of this pure and vital principle: it
13, therefore, unfit for the purpose a second lime: and if an
animal be conlined in air deprived of its oxygen, life is almost
inslanlly extinguished. Hence may be iiiferi<ed the iv-cessiiy of
ventilating stables; for although in closi' stabU-a the air is not
wliolty deprived of oxygen ga^, yet its proportion is diminislied;
and it is well known, that when there is a deficiency of this
animating principle, the system is debilitated, and all its func-
tions iui perfectly employed.
OXYMKLS, Syrups, when made with honey and »ine(nir
only, are termed simjile ax^mfis ; when stjuill, garlic, or meadow
saflron, has been previously infused or digested in the vinegar,
LL 4
i
MATEHIA MRDICA
it is nwn«i oxymel of squill, of garlk, or of mcactow -uilTfrtn.
They «tc aonieliines rniployed in clironic oougli, Tlit ii<»c
■botit four ounces mixed with water, or infuaion of ltnse«fl, or
mnnli-iiinUou^
OXYMUIUATE OF QUICKSILVER. — Hydraryyri
Oxymnriat, S^ CnRRUEIVE SuiiL.IMATX,
PALM OIL. Sw On, oi- Vm.h.
PKAS ftn- mmclimpt uMtl m» ftrntt (or hones, but faeui tie
generally preffrrp<l. l*ea ini-al i« employetl to Adulterate hone
powiU-rs particuliirly litiiiorivc^powder, anittc-aeed, fi^ugred:,
PECTORALS. Medicines that tvlteve cough, and dis-
oixU-Dt of (ho lungH. See ElxriiCTOitAKTS, Eholuents, Emvv
sios'^ iind DeMUi.cENTK.
PKFFER, BLACK. — Pii>fr Nigrum. This is often used
by EarrierH in the colic, but is uy no means an eligible remedy,
and i* often given very improperly. I once knew a farrier giw
two ounces, in half a pint of DaRy's Elixir, to a mail-bone
tlial was uii<l to be attacked with griprs : he g»\v me the follow*
ing cKplnnaiion of the mnnm-r tn which it waa lo act : — '* TA#
pfppfr i* to lirrak llir viiid, and Ihr Daffy^t FMxir it to drivt U
Mt." Ill the evening the horfu died, I mention this cireuni-
itancen* a caulioii to those who arc loo fond of giving lhe*r
very hot remedies in pains of the bowcU, without in(|uiring iolo
the nature of tht- comnliitiit.
PEPPER, CAYENNE; tlie berrie*. Captiam mauMm.
See Cafsk TM-
PEPPEU. CUBEBS. — Piper Cutxia. See Ci;Br.BS.
PEPPER, LONG. —Piper Lonffwn. This in roucb stronger
than black pepper, and mav be used for the same purposes.
PEPPER. JAMAICA*. Pimenta Baeta : Myrtut PimeiUa.
See Jamaica PErvett, or Allsimce.
PEPPKHMINT.— .Wr7.//.« Piperita. See MiST.
PHOSFHAIE OK SODA. — Soda Photphm. This U
umilar in \Xa eft'ecu to sulphate of soda or GlatilK-r'« Mills.
PH0.SP110RUS. A venr combustible sutstaitce, made
either from bones or urine. Lxperinven(&, have been made at
like Veterinary College to ascertain its medical qualities: it
proved to be « dreadful poison, inflaming the stomacli in small
doeeji.
PHY.SIC. See Cathartics.
PIMENTO. Sec Allsi'ice and Jahaica PcrPEH.
PITCH. — Pix, A black and impure resinous suhttUnots
obtained by boiling or distilling lar to the de)iire<l consistence,
and used by furriers in making ckaryts. See BuKot^Noy
Pn-oii.
PLAISTER, or PLASTER Emi^attnan. A compou-
AVD rBARMACOr<EIA.
lion or wax, resin, &«., or of oil boil«d with tbe oxide of lead
or iitliarge. See Diachylon and Chakge.
Plaisteh, Adhesive. — Kmplaftrum Adhativum. This is
made with diacliylon and a amall portion of resin, and .itill U-ss
of common turpentine, or with diacliylon and giilhunnm.
Scicking-iil aster is gometlnies employed, to keep ilie i-dgrn of a
frcsli wound togetlier j but in horses tliia is ffeii«rallj' done more
ciTcclually by suture, thai is, by sewing up tlie wound.
POISONS. These are nouc«d iu a Materia Medica for the
purpose of allowing the means we are acquainted with of coun-
teracting their baneful eflccis. Poisons are of three kinds, vis,
mineral, vegetable, and animal. Of the first kind arc arsenic,
corrosive sublimate, and certain preparations of lead. Tlie best
antidotes to arsenic are oily and mucilagltioiis liquids, sulphate
of potash, BOiip, and cafilor oil in a sohition of sulphate of mag-
nesia.* The same means may be employed to coimteract tlic
etfecEs of siiblimate.'f- When there is much purging, give linsL-ed
tea, tripe liquor, or thin gruel, or gruel made of arrow-root.
Such iniinenxe dosca of sugar of lead have been given by wav of
experiment to glaiulered horses without producing any eftect,
tliat the preparutions of lead arc not considered poisonous; cer-
tain it is, however, llutt a great nnmber of hor«cs and cattle
Inve been poisoned by grazing near those places on tlie Hill of
Mendip, where lead ore is amelted. Great niUchief has thus
been done in a village named Wookey, through which a small
river or rather binxik, runs. Alter very heavy rains, the water
that flows down tlie hill seems to be impregnated with lend;
for at sucli times it overflows certain meadows, and on the wuu-r
retiring these meadows have poisoned horses, cuttle, and other
animals. This fact is well known in the village and its neigh-
bourhood ; and animals thus poisoned are Kiid to tie mimUretl,
or tnoimitreil. Animals very seldom recover from it, though they
* Mr. Morton recommend* litne «atcr snd liquidx in lni<|te quitntiiici, nUo
large (lows of ihc hjdmted pcroildc of iron prrcipitntol by nmnioniu IrDin ■
solution of the mlphate of irun. Avoid Lli-cdiric. I>ui utf other uinuuti'S to
«uli^ii« inlluiiitnation, uiid ufteriiarils f;ive vegeiahTi.- loiiict.
When death ensues the stonincti ami boweJx arc highly influmcd uid ult>ef>
sled.
The prcscni'e ofancnic niuy he diKcovered by vnriou« li-*'*, Thcconlcnts
of the statnach kliouM he twitol in dutjllnl water and lillcred. The utnino.
niacsl aulphaie of copper bcinK ndJcd caiisoa a prei'ipitule of an n|>ple gr«ra
eoloar.
There arc ether teiiif cnijiloycd, the most delicate of which is by mesni of
Harsh'* nppiiniiii*. — Ed.
f The tm Ireninit-nt lor poi:>oning by corronivc snblimutc, eonirirt* in nd-
mini-Lteriiig the uHuiinni, or while of cgi:* ni'pcnded in water, which renders
ihi^ *i>l>1itnnte iiisoliiblc. In ndililion to thi>, wlicst flour, gruel, or niilk mny
sUo be given.
The pruseuce of tubliinuto niuy bo di»covcred by limc-wntcr, which cuusM
on orange-}^llow precipitate. — Eii.
MATKIItA MSOICA
sometimes linger « c«niitdenble time. 1 have b««n informed
that oi]c fanitcr tii Mviidip loRt fifteen head of cattle id com^
queiice of tlicir brvnkin;; down ttte fence which surrounded
tJ>e smelling nlacci to g«t at the grata which grvv within. They
suppose liiat It i» the Rne particles of the lead ore which docs
the mischicr; but I think it more prohable that it dt^pei ids upon
Um.- toiTHii or vniaiite [>art) that are eanied up in smolliiig, wiiicJl
brins cottdeiiHiKJ, fiill gradually' down in the form of a liffhl
powdery oxide or c-itrboiiatc of lead.*
SiilpiiBie ofcopprt is poisonous ifgivm in too large a doMi
Tilt- most [wwerful of tlie vegetable poisons is fVooraii or Ti-
CHHUn, which destroys small animals in a few minutm if applied
to a wound In the skin. I have teen a rabbit di<- in about (ive
minutes after it was inoculated. In the horM-, lis flTi.'ct has been
on the nervous system, produ<ring a sort of Irancc
CicHta f'irota. Long-leaved Water-hcmtock, or Cowbanc, is
a strong poison, and lia^ been the im-ans of lU'stroying a gmt
number of cattle. Its deleleriotis property, with respect to Olt>
tic, wuK first discDvcivd by Liiinwus, in n couninr where a great
number of catik- had been deeli-oyed by it. It is iteldoin found,
1 believe, in Kngland.
'I'he leaves of tltc yew tree arc n strong poison, and lave
often destrayc<I hone* an<l catile. I once gave live ounces
to a young donkey, and it killed him wiihin an hour.^ Vrfh
feasor Viborg, according to Mr. Hracy CUrk, gave twelve
ounoes of tlie gr^en plant lo a hor»e, of which lie at« eight
* Tlie best antidoto tat Bmoiti and Ulnubcr'i inlta with crotoa or limcnl
oil, uiul ^otlc)H'(^l \ij c|iiuin, Ttiu Mills of ktul may be Jbcovered lij' iodide of
polHiaiiini, which cBiurt a yclbw pn'cipitato.
The C0CCII of copfirr imokc have been nUo found exccodin^lv At
Vi ihiT hraltli of horHU. and |>r<MlucKi(| contiidenible srdlings IM ihc JMntri
animals i;\f>oi>i.'<l tu ilit mlliicim near the ■n!ni'* i an Immedute rhnapii
looOitj' '.hiiiilil he iY«>rt<x] lo iti »uch ttMO. — F.o.
tTlic hcM lUiiidotG i* atiop and oily pvrntive* viih pucl, See.^ Bo.
'iidrr miatnl poison* sdodIcI be ioduaed sulpliuric, oitric, and narialie
acids, whicli produce ihe most rapid snd hitemo tnlhinaiHrion and etooris-
liiMi of the cuatB of ihc iiioulli and ttoninch, fee., atlcuilcd wiih tnoA i^onjr,
and soon folUiwcd hy dtaUi. The anddolcs arc loriie qanntilics o( liaiiid* >iu
chnlk, miiKncaia. or xoeji, to as to dilute and noiitrah«e the (xmiMi, sad
aftcraarJx eiliilutinit opinln. Blootl-lcdlng may bIm h<; cnii>hi)«d,
Uxalic acid bat hecn wiiictinics e,nta in miiioic (at tljiHiai ulis i h ts a
VCtT powerful poi*oii, producliie i-flccln iiiiiiiLir to ilie uiinvRil aciJn. Clialk.
magnetia, itc. mny be uivcn in Iiiri;i; i|UHnltlies. uith solulion of gun, tiMcsd
tea, ftc, but unlcrr ihould not be ^wcn fri-clv,
Mo«l podofful jiiwIiciiicB bcYome poisoii* m laije Aote*. — Ei>.
X I'here arc a tmnilwr of iMiaeoM of death being jiroJucctl by lbs vc*
tree. I ima^nc it ii much more iiohoiioim la its dry oialu, wlieii i( vlll ba
cat iiltli aviiiity l)_v ilii.-i-|i anil (atltc. I bnvc knowii foriy or (Uty sl»eo|> 4o>
airojcd in one iliiy frimi c-iimi- the wiihereil leavm of ihc jcw tree. We
know of no antidote for thia poitoii, but recooiiDcnil large dotee of tiUy |<iir-
fBp'rm aitba view oreniicllingic— Eo.
AKD I'llAIIMACOrfXIA.
"toiinccs, and ft-U dead, witliout any indication orsiilft-rinf;, al the
end of one liour from liisi swallowing it. The same cfTeci was
prodiici'd by *ix ounces in nn fsjHTlment of MM. Brodon and
Honoii, of Lyons. A nnile diwl in five liours after talcing six
oiincn with some liay. 'llit-y ail died suddenly and wiiliout
convuhions. The only effect observed, on examination aftor
deatlt, was, that the inleaiines of Ui« niulr had a »inall Fpot of
rxtrnva&ated blood. Uut it is remarkabU% that viglit ounces of
tlie yew plant with twice as much uati did not kill or produce
any lemilile inconvenience: and the »ame rciull took place iti
three or four experinienis of Professor Viborg. A larmcr near
Exeter lost several cows, by eating the leaves of some yew trees
which grew in the hedge of the field where they were kept. 'I'he
following circumstance, also, was related in Woolmer's Exeter
Paper: •' A yew tree having been felled in a field at Warley,
Somerset, belonging to Fanner Iliscox, in the course of the
emuing night, six out of seven cow^ (hat were with calf, died in
conaequence of eating its branches." We know of no antidote to
this poison, but we can certainly prevent our cattle from eating it-
Common Hendock is said to be poisonous, but I have given
eight ounces to a young nss, which he ate readily, and suffered no
inconvenience from it. I once gave two drachms of Stavesacre to
a glandered horse ; he died in great pain the following night. *
It ia probable lh<it more horses have been killed by aloes than by
any other vegetable prq)aration ; that is to say, by strong physic,
or by neglecting tlie horse during its operation. The unimal
poixons are the Ktingitof venomutis reptiles, for which HtimiiUiting
end>rucaii»ti3 seum to be belter remedies than fomenfationn.
The saliva of a mnd dog in a deadly poison to man, and to nil
animals, and one for which, ax vet, we know of no reniedv, but
its effects niiiy Ije prevented by the knife or cautery, f — Lo.]
POMEGHANATK. — /*«««« GroHatwn. The dried fruit
is a moderately strong astringent; and is sometimes employed
in diarrhtea, particularly in horned cattle, but generally im-
properly. The bark and flowers possess the same properties.
'flic dose is from half an ounce to an ounce.
I
* Amnngit vq[i:iu1ilc poitons wc iniisi iaclucle hydrocyanic er {tniaile aoU,
liicli in u sufficient ctoac |ini(lii>-ci ■iiddcn <lcalb, aclinic m h powsrful sedative
on the iictvou* ^)'aTCltl ; itt i-l^cln in IcMCr doiei uru violent!}' tpaiiniodlc.
A» nnfidoic* Mr. Monon reciMntiieniU wid ntl'iisions ovtr lli« body. l>l<iod-
tcttilig. difliiaibic ttimultnU. and Ionic*.
The voinic riul uiid ilrjdmiii are powerful Dorcotic jioiHtn*. Pur|Dlivei
anil chlonne und iodine arc tliF bol aittidolca.
Croton •ccd, foj^Bl"'^! *ntrr poKley, dropworl, moit of llie dilfbrenl upccic*
rannnculocn'. hellebore, tohncco, and a|num pre alio powerful vt^etabla
poi*on« in f<tiflli-ien[ dose*. — Ea.
It'or a full »nd pnrticiilar account of tlie \iiTious t>i>>Miis, with their tciU
antidotei, 1 hove miicli pIcMurc in rcterrinjf to a Toxicologicnl Chart pub*
U»li»d by Mr, Storion, — Eo,
624
aiATEHIA HED)C&
POPPY, RED or CORN, and WHITE. — Pammr,
Hhaas tt St/mui/trtnn. TlielieadBof tlie wluic poppy (Iripd make
• good fomenUtiioo for wounds and tumours tltat arc in a painful
or irrtiiil)le sutc ; for which puqiosc iht-j- ore tw be broken in
nifcet, and boiled in water, so u to make & etroiij^ dpcoction.
Thtt decoction proves very st-rviorabltt in irritatMlity of ihu
bladder, if umxI ns a glystor, iIh' bowrU having bcvn previomly
ciiipiicd: for this purpose ihcdccocitoii (bould be matk- Stronger,
by boiling it for some ttnic. Altliough ihe citpxuleH of tl>e red
poppy contain opium, yvt it a in mich sntull quMitiiy* thu tl>ey
arc rarely, if evi-r, UM.tl u* an unodyoe.
It (ceiiM vi;ry prububk' tltnt the good effett of llib decoction
dvpotidM in a great iiifasure upon tlte opium wliich a pxtracfrd
from tJie pi>ppy heads : it may be hotter, therefore, to dissolve in
grue) a pni[)er d(we of opium, when an anodyne glysler va re-
quired, as wc cannot be accurate in respoci to quantity utien
the decoction of poppies is employed, li has been a^ert&ined
that the anodyne or narcotic qualities of opium are diminished
by long boiling, and that the extract of poppies, however care-
fully prepared, is very inferior in every re«itecl to opium. No
licwitation, thon-fore, should be felt in pnTcrrlng opium to the
extract or decoction of white poppy )>ead*, whether it be wanted
for a clyster, a drench, or a fomentation.
POTASH. — J'otatsa. (New name, Piiotoxide or Porxsr
BiUM.) There is a great variety of preparations of potassa used
in medicine, as the liijuor pota»ta^ or soKition of potassa, whicli
is diuretic and antacid ; the jfotasta /Ufa, or fttsed poiassa, a
caustic deliquescent salt; the pobuta cum calee, or potaau witli
lime, a mildiT c«u!'tic; the ptdcwas bilartrtUf or bilartrate of
|M>tnMa. With xulphurie acid it forms vitriotaied tJtrtar, or m1
pulychrett {SuJfiAate of Potat/t) ; with nitrous scid, tlint very
useful medicine termed niire {Sitrate of Poia$h), which, contrary
to what we have just observed, is a diuretic in a moderate dose
(see Nitre); and with vinegar, or acetous acid, it makes so-
luble tartar {Tartariatd Potanh). Th«- pearliuih of commerce is
the carbonoie of potnsb, and is in a very impure state, and not
applicable to chemical or medical purposes. When sufficiently
purified, it is joined with diuretics, purgatives, and tonics, with
advantage. In i)io!te cases which require tlic use of tonics iliere
is sometimes an acidity in the stomach, which potash corrects;
and it renders purgative medicines more easy of solution.
Given alone it acts as a diuretic. When neutralised witK acids,
it has a laxative property, but requires to be given in targe
doses. The purified potash is named in the shops Snh-tarioHoU
of Pultnli ; formerly called Sail of Tarlnr, or l*re(Kired Kali, or
Salt of Wormwood. When iwtash is deprived of tlw carbonic
«cid with wliicb it n imluruly combinet^ ii becomes n strong
AND PHARMACOPIEtA. S8S
csusHe ; and wlien diluted is somelimes employed as a waali for
the mange. In this slate il is termed Pure folai/i, or Kali,tiJ\d
u si?ldom used internally. (See Alkalies.) Wiih carlwnic
acid it is named Carbonate ofPotanft.
POULTICE, or CATAPLASM: of LINSEED; of
BEER-GROUNDS; of C.MXROT.— Cataphsma ; Lim :
Certitisia ; Dauci. Cataplasms are useful applications for pro-
moling suppuration in inflamed tumoiirBi and in those diseases
of the horse's heels, named grease, scratches, cracks, &c.. con-
ustin^ in inflamed sweUiiigtt nf the heeU, felid discliEirgr, painful
and troublesome ulcers, or cracks generally under the fetlock or
bend of the heel. The poultices commonly employed on those
occiuions are of the emollient kind.
KMOLLIENT POULTICE,
No. L Linseed meal ^ lb.
Bran 2 quarts.
Hog's lard , 4 ounces.
Boiling water enough to make a soft poultice.*
No. S. 'J'urnips, thoroughly boiled ntid mashed ; any quan-
tily. Lin«Ofd meal enough to form llie poultice.
A poultice made of carrot, grated very fine, is detergent and
BlJmulaling.
Either of these simple poultices may be converted into an
anodyne i>oullice by the addition of opiiim ; ituo a fermenting
poultice, by the addition of yeast, <uid by »ub«titnting oatmi-al
for linseed meat ; into an astringent potillic<', by the addition of
Goulard's Extract, sugar of lead, or jiowdered alum ; and into
a detergent poultice, by tlie addition of white or blue vitriol.
In obstinate cases of virulent grease, where there is much
pain, and a stinking dnrk-coloured discharge, and especially
when emollients are found ineffectual, the detergent poultice has
quickly cured the disease : and, in such eases, even a solution of
corrosive sublimate has been used with the best effect. But
emollients should always be first fairly tried, and eome diuretic
medicine given.
For poulticing the foot, a leathern boot affords the most suit-
able method, as a hag or a siocking will be soon worn through
by the edge of the crusl. A stocking, however, with the fool
part cut off, affords a convenient mode of applying a poultiov
to the knee or leg.
POWDERS. — Puhvrei. These are sometimes coiirenient
forms for giving medicines, as many horses will take them in
their com without reluctance. It is by no means proper, liow-
* The belt pgultice ij> mtule Willi lin«eMl me*! groiinil <riiU the oil, U
keejw »o(l, (UiJ can Iw mcdivaicd n« wc amy wish. — F.i>.
3
BH
MATERIA MEttlCA
ever, fur such as have a delicate uppelilc ami arc rvniarkabtjr
nice in ftediiif;; Tor although th«y mjiy. a(lcr somi.- limr, nt
their food, vet the reluctaiici- with nhich it is lukcn would pn>-
vr-ui its being readily digcskt), or proving so nutritioitt u it
would do, were it itoi *o luvdicatvd.
Some hont-s, howvviT, eat their com very readttv w[»en mixed
with powd<T; and to Kiidi it may be given without iiicoit*
vetiience. Th*>re i» unottHT ohjcHMioii to this mode of givinj;
medicine, which \* tlie diiriiiuliy of asccnoiiiing wheilK-r ibe
whok- or a [nrt, And how much of the powd<T tliNl i* mixed with
tile corn, i« Uiketi. Rut this m»y in a great ineMure be done
away, by »prinkline the corn with water, ai>d mixing the powder
with it very can,>ru)ly. A* we have before olwervwl, whenever
a Ixinte a|>pi-an> unwilling tu eat hin eorn ihu:i inedicatCKl. the
medicine nhoulrl be given in some other form. I'he niediciiiei
bent Kuiietl to this purpose are anttniony, tfulnhiir, resin, emetic
lartiir, nitre, caraway seeds, aniM--M'<('(U, &c. Mcdicinca tliat are
given in ihe form of powder sliuuld he finely sifted, or levigated :
and when kept in tliat form, should be preserved in a well-
corked bottle.
IMIECIPITATE, RED (by mtric neift). — Bydrargyri
Sitrico-Oiifiittm. This is the nitric oxide of merctirr, or red
nitrated ijuickUlrer, and is un-ful as a mild caustic or de>
tergent, and has a good elTect in fuul ulceni. It may be incd
either alone, finely powdered and sprinkled on the afri'ct(.'d part,
or mixed with various ointments. (See DETEAacNTH.) It ii
made from quicksiti'er and nitrous acid, but is coiwidrrably
weaker thanaaoliiiion of that metal in nitrous acid. It beoone^
however, a strong and very effiencious caustic, when dissolved in
nitrow acid. This solution may also be mixed with unctuoua
■ubstances. forming with them good detergent ointments : or it
may be dilated with water, so as in form a detergent lotion of
considerable efficacy.
PROOF SPIRIT. — SpiritHs Tmuior. Equal parts of^
rectified spirit of wine and water. See Alcohol.
PURGATIVES. See Cathartics.
QUASSIA. — Quauia. There are two species of qua»>A;
the quoMta nmarxba and exceba. The first is a native of South
America and the West Indian Islands; the last of Surinam, Ja-
maica, and the Caribbean Isles. The bark of ilie former and
the wood of the latlei" are generally employed in medicine-
Both of them are powerful biltei'6 and extremely efScacious iu
cases of weakness of the stomach and bowels. They may he
given in powder, in dmes from one to two drachms, joined with
pnger, or some other stimulant, and a small quantity of car-
anatc of soda or pota»h.
■ AM) PHARHACOrSIA. 597
QUICKSI LVER. — Hi/drargyrum. Tins nwul and it* pre-
paruituns huvp bct-n iioiiccil iiixlvr the head Mentay.
QUININE, SULPHATE OF. — Q«i»».MC Sulpkat. See
Bark.
RAGWOKT. A fluwering plant tlint growt pnnciniJly on
moon and other nioUt situations. 1 have beei) inr«rmru that it
cauM-H lethar^^' or aleepy siaf^gera in horsea, and that Hhci-p oat
it freely wiiliout injury; but there is no pi-obability in thia
opinion.
HAKING. A term employed for an operntton which con-
sists in introducing the hand into the horae'a rectum, and draw-
ing out any hard excrement that may liare lodged there. This
may genei'ally be cffecled more to the purpose, and with greater
ease to the animal, by mean? ofclyslerA.
In some case^ however, ihc straight-gut is Bo loaded wttli
hard dung that raking is a necessary ojieration ; and i( is ^omc^-
times difficult or impossible 10 throw up a clyster before it ia
done. The operation is useful also for ine purpose of ascertain*
ing tlie slate of excrement when none can be found about ilie
litter: wbetlter it be soft, hard, or slimy. The only method of
knowing whether the urinary bladder is full and distended, or
empty, is by introducing the hand into the straighi-f;nl, where
the bladder can be easily tell, as it lies immediately beneath the
gut next to the belly or abdomen. The nails should be pared
smooth, and the hand oiled or smeared with bog's lard or toft
soap, before tlie oiwration is performed. Sec Clybtehs.
KATTLESNAKE-HOOT. Seneka-Root. — /'o/yi«t/a Se-
neffa. Seneka is a perennial plant found in North America. The
root is inodorous, and is, on being first chewed, of a sweetish
and mawkish flavour, but, after being chewed for a short time,
Itas a hoi and pungent taste. It w uouglit to possess eonsider-
able power as a tonic and stimulant, and may be employed in
tlie dose of three or four drachms.
RECTIFIED SPIRIT. Alcohol or Spirit of Wine. — S/h'-
ritta llfctijicittut. See Alcohol.
REPELLENTS. A icrm given to applications or medi-
cines that are supposed to have the power of causing tumours
or eruptions to recede from ihc eurfoce of the body.
RESINS are distinguished by their in(l4imniabilily, and by
combining readily with ri-ctilie<l spirit and oiU. They are gene-
rally Eotid, and incapable of being n}ix<.-(l with water. Sec
Rosin.
m RESOLVENTS. Medicine* thai disperte lumouirs, eillier
'external or internal.
RESTORATIVES. Medicine* that resiore ihe strenglli of
ibe body alter violent latij^uc or illness. For ihi» purpose a light
and nutritious diet, ass tslett by ^od gcuoivuu^, Vkwi \i>\\iiv\v&r<)
i
S8S
MATERIA BIEDICA
f xcrcitr, is ^morally the only thing necessary : Bomoiitnes, )iow-
cvpr, it ni»y be i>ro|)er to give also sonto cordial or tonic ttu-dii-iric
(Sec ToMcs, ConDiALS, ami Stomachics.) llie Ibod on xucb
occasion* tliould consist of bruiw-d oats pritel, mashn of fine sweet
liran and mall, gruel of wheat-flour, or boiled barley. In [n<lia
strong brotlis, or soup, thickened with barley or some other grain,
and rendered stimulating by spices, arr frequently given as
restoratives to horses when worked hard; perhaps good mild
beer or ale, mixed with good griii-1 made of groats or oaltncalt
or, wbut is still better, fine w)>cai-naur, would be found on some
occasions equally effectual. But it will be found, that when a
borse )ias for some time been worki^l hard and fed bigh, tliere
is nothing that will so completely restore him aa rest in a lai^
box, or well- ventilated stall, wiUi a diet of bmn mashes, and
only a moderato quantity of hay for two or ihri-v days. This
will cmpiv the large bov,-c!>i and nlTord that rest to the stomach
and bowels, which, in such cii»e«, (hey idnay* require. ThrM
or four drachms of aloes, wilh n little ginger and soap, ittay some-
timcv be useful in such cases.
IIHUBAHB ; the Root.— Rheum Palmaban. This isa native
ofChiim iind Tartary. Turkey or Kussinti rhubarb is obtained
from ibe last mentioned place, besides uliii-h a great quantity i»
sent to this country from the East indies, but it is not prt-pnred
with the same care as that imported from Turkey, which liaj a
IM-culiar aromatic odour, atKi a bitter, slightly astringent, ai»d
subacid taste; b easily pulverised, and produces a powder of a
li^dit yellow colour. Hhubarb is sloniachtc, astringent, and pur-
gative, according to the dose in which it is exhibited. It is no\,
however, emploA-ed for (lie latter purpose as a horse medicine,
but is not unlrcquenlly adininislcred as a sloniacbic, in doses
from half an ounce to an ounco, combined with aloes and
ginger.
ROSEMARY. — Rogmarintu officinaHs. This plant is cul-
tivateil in Brilaiti, but is a native of the south of Europe,
Oreec*?, and Barbary. ti flower* in April and May in this coun-
try, and tlie leaves and flowern yield nn essential oil, which appears
to contain camphor, and which is frequently uwd as an embroca-
tion for strain.1 and bruiM's, mix*.'d with rectified spirit and soap.
'I1iis tnixiure is nearly the same an the celebrated Opadeldoc ; and
by the addition of camphor it becomi-s tW- same thing.
ROWELLIKG. An operation often performitl in veterinary
practice. It comiHts in nmktng nn incision in the skin, about
an inch in length, with n pair of Mhort and strong-bladcd ecissore.
The finger is then intmduceil, in order to M-|)arate the skin
from tlie subjacent parta all round the incision, that the cavity
may contain a circular piece of leather about an inch and a lulf
or two inches tn breitdiV\. &«(or« v\\i& l«atJirr is inlroducctl, a
AND PKARHAOOPIEIA.
SQ9
ho1« is made in tho centie about halfan inch in diampter; it is
(hen covered wiih tow (ihe hole being left ojica), .ind Miwared
with digestive oiniment : when (he rowel is put in, the hole in
the middle of the leather ia plugged up with » little tow.
In this situation it is left until matter forms, which generally
happens in three oi- four days; the plug nf mw h then with-
drawn, the rowel moved, and the matter suflwed to How out, in
which Biate it remaina as lonfj as is thought necessary. Thus
we see that a rowel is an ariiliciat isaiie or abscrM. the leather
first cansiiig inflammation, wbich ends in suppuration or the
fbrmaiion of mailer; and the matter continuing lo be Ibrmed so
long as the extranc-ous body ov leather remains under the skin.
The rowel must be moved every dav.
Tlie intention of rowclling is to divert inflammalton from any
important organ or part of the body. Thus, when the lungs
are inflamed, the animal certainly dies, unless it is put a stop
to; but the skin may be inflamed to a considerable extent with-
out danger ; wc therefore put a rowel in the chest, which, though
not sufficient of iuelf to stop the inflammation of the lungs, con-
tributes materially to this purpose, and, with the other necessary
remedies, often effects a cure. In large swellings of ihe hintl
]*g^ and obstinate cases of grease, rowels in the thighs are good
remedies.
In shoulder-strains, a rowel may sometimes be put in tlte chest
with good effect. In short, when inflammation attacks an easeri-
ti»l and important part of the system, much lieiu-fit will often l)e
derived fmm inserting a rowel in some contiguous part that is of
little importance. When a rowel is removed, the part generally
heals of itself; if not a little Friar's balsam may be applied.
Many practitioners consider blistering the sides extensively as
a more effectual means of diverting inflammation from the lungs
than rowels; and 1 am inclined to think they are right. The
rowel is sometimes smeared with blistering instead of digestive
oiniment : hut there is danger of the cantharides being absorbed
and causing inflammation of the kidneys. I have known a
horse destroyed in this way. In cases of very severe internal in-
flammation, very little can l>e accomplishetl either by rowels
or blisters.
Whenever it is thought necessary to make the oiniment which
is used in rowelling more siimiiialing, it may be easily done by
adding oil of turpentine to it.
RUBEFACIENTS. A term in human medicine, applied
to compositions or simples that redden or iiiHmnc ihe rkin. Of
(hi:i kind arc mustard, tuq)enline, and li<juid nmmonia. See
Kmbrocatioks.
RUK. — /^m/m (jrovttilrns. This is a perennial evergreen, a
i
t»
MATERIA HEDICA
naUv«oftlM- soultu-ni paru of Eurojto, but cultivnted in tbn
country. lu propi-nk-s an- »litiiuliin( mid untiipwrncxlic. It hat
\n-an recommuiiiU'd in lock«^'d-jit* tti n vi-likle for o])iuin, ramjibor.
and axiaioMula, in tin- form of ilccoction. It tnny [>u*»««s some
I>ower as an antii^iio^modic, but cxTUiinly i» vory infi-rior lo niany
otben. GihKm ofivn prcMribr* U, but gmorally lu h vetiicle
for oilier more active mrdicinos. Many farrier* Mill rmplov rw
in farcy wiih soap Mid oilwr diuixtics, H'bich they give in tuTot
done* ; it is UM-<1 hUo a» u fonH*nUtlion, iind i* by tome thouow
to possess cmitiitlcniblc power lu a prcvi>nuve of bydFopliOEWi.
but il has no sncb efi^-cL
RYi; SPUKRKD. - Krtfoi of Bye. — Swofc 0»t.m/u«.
[Tliis siibeunee ts found on otnfr grain oa well as rye, and it is
a matter of dispute wbciltrr it in a diwaftc of tht- grHiti, produced
by insrcts, or a fun|;oii* pUnt growinir upon it. Whpii partskm
of in tli« fortn ofbrctul it has lH-*'n known to produce tbe most
Eoisonous and fatid rwiilu; uimI its fffrcts on deer and awine
avp bentt (o cover tlie body wit)i uiccrt, and nrocluce dreadM
and Cital convulsions. lu inc<licinal t^vct is iltat of a povreriU
■timulant lo th« uterii*, and is tbcrrfon.- very useful when par-
turition il greatly delayed by a want of activity in l)>e wotnb.
It baa bc«n given to cows with gnod effect, in doaea of from two
to fourdrachtns, in powdor, combined wiib some carminative, and
given in beer every hour until a proper Hfect ia produced. Ttu'
same dose is proper for a marc; and in tlie dog from fire to ten
grains. Thin mtnlicine should be administered carefully, and only
when absolutely required. — Ed.]
SACCHAltUM, gfwfliK SYRUPUS EMPYREUMA-
TICl^S. Sugar nn<l Molassea. 'I1)e dust of sugar U aoine-
linH-« blown into the eye in some disHsra of that orf^. A
small quantity of molassw, mixod with a Iwne'a water ctery
day, will speedily fatten him.
SAGO. A uirinaccotis substance, which, when boiled in
water, is a proper drink for sick horses that are incapalile of
feeding. See Gruel.
SAL AMMONIAC, or MURIATE of AMMONIA. -
jimmonia Muritvi. A neutml salt, composed of muriatic acid
and ammoniii, which, when dissolved in vinegar and water,
forms a good embroraiion forstrains and bruises. Mixi.'d with
nitre it lowers tin? tcmpernlurc of water.
Osmer, an uld veterinnry author, prescribed it for a distemper
or epidcmiL- catarrh in hors<^«, that prcvaiU-d in tlie year 17.^0,
in a doM> of urn- ounce, joinctl with one ounce of nitre, half an
ounce of Castile soap, and two drachms of camphor, lo be gireo
three times a din-. This, I should think, would opi>rate not
oniy at a powciUil diuretic, but would be liable to trritaie tl)c
eloinacb in u dungcrov» OL«^T«a. V\ u a. nwiUunc I have never
AMD PIIAHIIAOOraUA. 531
given internally, not eonsidering it viih«r so safe or so pfficaciouA
us tiilrp.
SAL POLYCHRESr.— Sulphat Potattte turn Sulp/otrt.
This is msd? by mixing tugc-tlier c-qiinj wciglits Qf jxiwdei'ed
nitre and giiblinted aulpliur, itnil llirowing tlic inixlure, in small
portions at a tiitic, into a red-hot crucible. As soon as the de-
flagration is finished, ihv tult is to be allowed to cool, aiid then
put into a closo-xtoppcd i^liiM vessel. lie properties are similar
to tltoM.' of siilplialc of puiiiss, and il is somelimee combinefl with
h1(k-« as a laxative or catliarlic It passes through the kidney's
iindvcompOK-d.
SAL VOLATILE. This term is indiscriminately applied
to compound spirit of ammonia, and prepaird ammonia, or
amt-lling salts ; hut the Jormer ts often dislinguishcd by ilie name
oi Kpirit of Mil vtilaliff.
SALIX CAI'RKA. llie Willow. There are lhi«c varieties
of willow, the barks of which an- tonic and aslriiigcnt, nml have
bo.li succi^utly substituted for IVnivion bark. A pre]>»ratto)i
callc<l salucinc is now made from willow>bark, wlirdi posse»es its
tonic principle in a conei'nirated state, in the tame manner as
quinine does lltal of eincliotiii. TlK*do»e may befrwn ten to thirty
grains, or perhaps more in some eases, twice or ihrice a day.
SALT, COMMON. — 5»</<i; ^Uufw«. Sw MuajATK of
Soda.
SALTPETRE. — Potaaa .Vifroo. Sec Nitrk.
SALT OF STEEL, SULPHATE OF IRON, or VI-
TKIOLATED UiOS. — Sul/Jmn Ferri. A combination of
culphuric acid and iron. This h by no mennit m> reninrkable
for its tonic pow^-r in the horse, a« in the human »ubje<:t; but it
is said to possess this quality, and i* often given in ilose* from
one or two, to four dnKrhms. See Ikon,
SALT OF TARTAR, or WORMWOOD. Pure carbo-
nate of Potash. Potattai Carhmuu Puriigimus. See PoT.titii
and A (.KALI IIS.
SALTS. When an acid combines with an alkali, earth,
or mciallic oxide, it is terme<l it lalt- Tlie alkali, eailh, or me-
lallit: oxide i« dt-non)ina[i.-d llie base, and when neither the ucid
nor tlie base prrdominateK, it is called a neutral salt. When,
on exposure to atmospheric air, it is either reduced lo powder or
becooK-s covered with a while cruit, it has received the a[>pellii-
tion of nn eflloresc<-nt salt; but if it aboorb moisiuix* from the
almoKplicre, it ts termcil a deli([uescent uilt.
The name of each salt is compounded of two words : the one
indicating its ncid, the other its base. Thua Glauber's salt,
which is eompo»-d of :tulpliuric acid and »oda, is called sulphate
of soda. Nitre, wlitcli is compounded of niaic octd and potaas,
is termed nitrate of potass.
M M a
Ife
i
532
MATERIA MEDICA
When B ttlt is formod with nn acid not completely oxygen-
isod, ii ii'rmiiuttrs ill if' insuvtA ot aU, as [iltosfihite of soda;
but if tliu »ult ouiitaiii acid in excess, tite word ttiptr is |>reGxed
to its namet u su(>er-AcetHte of lead. Should, however, its base
not be fiitljr wtuntt^l with oxygen, the word sub is sub^ti-
tutcd lor gu/trr, as sub-carboiiiite of |x>las».* See AciM aiid
Alkalies.
SATURNINE LOTlO'S. — I^ioSatvmina. Thiaisniade
by diH»olving two ounces of superacetaie (sugar) of lead in one
|>iiit of vinegar, and three or four pints of water, and is con-
sidered an useful application to recent strains, bruises, and otlwr
injuries allendrd wtlh inltanimaiion.
SATURNINK 01 N I M ICNT. — Uw^itnttKin Satttmimm.
I'his is niade by incorporating (ioulard's extract of lead, or
sugar of lead (super-acetate of lead) with bog's lard or wax oint-
roeni. See (JofLABO. AsrnisoEXTs, and Ointmentb.
SATURNINE POULTICE. — Cataplasms Saturnintm.
See I'ouLTicE, Astrisoent Oistmests, Acetate of Lead,
and Embrocations.
SAVIN K. — Junipenu Sabita. 'ITiis shrub is a native of the
South of Europe and the Levant. Farriers often employ the
leaves in a green state as an aniheltnintic ; but I have never teeq
them do any good. Savinc is recommended by Mr. Ulatiteu
a principal ingredient in an ointment for the remuval of want;
t(« efPect. hoivevcr, is doubtful.
SCAMMONY. — Cniteoltulia Satiamonla. This plimt is a
native of Syria and Cochin China. The scammony of com-
merce is a guui-resin obtained from ilie root of the {iluiii. It
sliould be light, friabh;, and rei>enibling a hooey-comb. lU
colour is blackish, or dark grey. It is a strong purgative, but
is scarcely ever employed in veteritiary practice wbeii alotn can
be procured.f
SEA-WATEII. Some horses will drink a sufficient ijiuiu-
lily of sca-waier lo excite purging, which may be useful, should
such horses be affected wiili swollen heels, inflamed cye», w
otlier inflummatory complaints. Sea-water is useful as a cooK
ing application to an inllamcd part.
SIALOGOGUES. Medicines that cause an increased se-
cmion of saliva ; the principal of which are llie preparalJous of
mercury.
IakuI mcttiu were formerly employed to effect ifais ia the
• The tcmi* bl nnd ptUv are employed insiOKl of tnptr aail mi ia modem
nomrni'latiirc. — Kit.
f 1 huvu Intel}' trkft icmnniony in vnrioui doan ; il prnduccd tcmrtxij aaj
eflcct until si i: dracli ins were ^-ivcn stone Jose, which wu followed by moaenuc
purging Thu cxpnimuiit wm made only on one horw -. shoulil anoihcr
I rial be inailc ul' it, a kuiiUm doM of mo w \\itu •Jnctuni dionM bo Tmt gnm.
I
I
c
AMD PHARMACorcKIA. 33-3
borsE; thai is, by bridling him, wrapping round tlie bit some
linen that had been soaked in vinegar, in whicti giivUc, luaafix-
tida, pellitory of Spain, &c. Iiad been steeped; also by putting
balls Iwtwccn ihe grinders, composed of similar ingredients, or
others capable of siimulating the salivary g lands, and bringing
on a discharge of saliva: these were called maslicaiories or
chewing balls. A late writer (Mr. Wjlkinson) has rei^om mended
chewing ball?, composed of atitimonial powder, gum, ^c. in epi-
demic cHlarrh or distemper, when attended with sore throat and
difficulty of swallowing.
SlI-VER, — Ar^rntum. Tlic only prepai'ation this melnl
■ifTords is the lunar caustic, or nitrate ot silver; nn application
of great imporUincc in surgery, wbclher human or veterinary.
See Caustics, Lunak Cawstic, and Auuemi Nithm(.
J SINAPISMS. — Cataplaima Sinapit. Stimidaling \m\i\-
tioev, or linimiiil*, in which nn»tanl is a principal ingredienl.
See Kmbbocations and MusrARo.
SN.\Klv-ROOT. — Pn/i/ynta Smi-ffa. TliiJi, which in a pon*n-
iiil planl, is A nnlive of Norlli America. It i% ini)dui-ou», of a
sweetish taste im being first chewed, and aficnvards hiH and
pungent. It i» a stimulant and diuretic, increasing the acilon of
the alisorbents, uiid occasionally producing ptyalism. The idea
that this root counteracts the biles of serpents is nowdisri-garded;
but it n considered a useful medicine in cufvs o( weakness,
and may probably be om)>loycd with ndvuntage in veterinary
practice.
ITie dose is from two to four drachms or mure, and is geiie-
mlly given with cnrbonuic of ammonia, or ^tnli of hartshorn,
camphor, and bark ; in some cases opium i« added. See ToNica
and Am'iskitics.
SOAP. — Sapo, The various kind* of snap have all a strong
and diuretic qtiality; anil ihi^e are C'jUtile, Spaniiili, and pui'e
white soap. Soup is an titeful ingredient in purgative at well tii
diuFvlie preparations.
The (io«e i* from two or three draclimi to an ounce, but it is
wmeiimes given in hirger doses.
Soft noap ix very useful in cleaniing fotd heels; and when
mixed with oil of turpentine and sptrii of wine, forms a good
embrncation for inihirated tumours, or callous swellings. See
£MBnot;ATioN.'t and Liniments.
SOUA; Natron, or the Mineral Alkali. This is procured
iefly from the ashes of marine plants. Its medicinal ])ro'per-
ties are nearly the anme as potash, but the prepared natron or
soria i^ sometime:* preferred as an ingredient in purgative and
tunic medicines.
The dose is from two to four drachms.
There are various preparations ot sodtk, aa Vkw cuftowoSA ^
aoda (M(I<r<arAiMMu)>, which ii antuid and drub«ini<>ni ; tlir dried
stibcArbonWtf {mtLt tubcarbonat nrsmvia), w hicli in [MTliapi mom
con vcMK'i Illy admin inUTtil tliu) tl"* cHrtwn.-iU'. iui<l antitm the
&nmf i>urjioi«: it it cxlromoly iitcriil in [>niiiful aHV-ctioni of tlw
urinury organs ari^tiif; frcmi acid in tlitt uritK*: the sulpliati* of
soda (mt/ip tulphiu), or Gluubor'tinlts {tee Si;i.f>iiATK or Soda) ;
and the tartari».-d mmIa (soda tartarizata), wluvh U cathaitic,
but not often ]H-i-»cril>p<i hy v«OTina»i«m.
SOILING. Ry lliin tcnn » nieaiu f<K<diDg lKir»» with grwt,
clover, luccrn, vctche*, or other green food, in the &inhlo, in-
stead of turning them to grass in spring or sinimicr. Some
horses an- m> rcntlesa at grass, and so apt to stray, that turniitg
thorn out i» attended witli danger and inconvenience. Horaea
also tttat are Uintes or jtut recovered from a lameness, someiinies
injure iht-niM^lveii al (frass by taking too much oxerrise. In such
case», m>iMng for about a month in a large airy box is exceedingly
useful. 1 coaiidtr vetches the best v«getable for soiling. Sooie
people arc aihocates for keeping a horse all the year round upon
tiay and corn, and only allowing thiNn green food in the spring
now and then in sufficient quantity to open the bowels, and no
more, and assert lluit by this mode of management ihey an' able
during the winter to i^o through a greater degree of labour than
thry odierwige wuuld, and to keep in much t>etter condition.
Tlii* method of feedinj; hunU^rs is now ven' exten»ivflv culopttd.
SOLUBLK TAKIAH, orTAKTHATE OK i'OTASH.
•^Tartras Potaua. This is a laxative saline preparation, corv>
nosed of cream of tartar and potash. It is sometimes given with
infution of senna, and is supposed to correct the griping to fr**
Siuenlly induced by reeinous cathartics. The dose may be from
our to eight ounces, according lo tlic pi-oportion of aperient
mitlicine with which it is combined.
SORREL. — Bumex AkIoso. An Acidulous plant, tome-
tintea prescribed by lliu veterinary practitioners of rrnitcr in
dysentery and molten grease; but not used by English veteri-
narians.
SPANLSH FI.IES. See CANTiiAXini:<>.
SI'KAKMINT. — 3f«./Aa Viridi*. See Mint.
SI'KKMACKTI. — Cttaeetim. An unctuous subataneet
procured from the luitd of a certain speeics of whale. In
medicttl practice it in often employed as a demulcent to allay
irritation, tin in oougl^ hut is rarely employed in veterinary
practice, and a|>|K*Jir* to differ very iiiile in its medical proper
das from hog'it hirti or nuei. It lias been lately diKOvered thai
tW muscular imri* of all animals may be converted into a sub-
stance rvseuibliiig spiTinaoeti by tnacvration in «-ater.
SPIKES, KLOWElHNG;ofUvender.-iatMWwA7 Spua.
A vohitilo oil, lermeA o\\ w(*v^V.e,\* TOi*.ft»STOmWftwU-r, and is
^
AND PIIAnMACOP<KlA.
much twcd by farriers; >t appears, liowpvpr, to be often nothing
more tliBD oil of turpentine coloun-it with alkanet root.
SIMllIT OF AUUOaiA.—Spirilui Ammonia. See Am-
monia.
SPIRIT OF m^iDEREKVS. ~~ Spiritiu Mindertri. See
AcBTATK OP Ammonia.
SPIRIT OF NITROUS ETHKR.—Sp.'W/««^^*"""^''-
Iriei. Spc Acin, Nitkic', mul Nitrous.
SPIRITS. Brandy, ruin, gin, or cordial liqtiors; but in
medicine tite word <pirit Is ajiplied to alcohol, eilhc-r pure or di-
IuimI. See Alcohol.
There are varions kinds nf spirits used in medicine; tnch tts
spirit of nutmeg, spirit of juniper, ilec. which is made hy distilling
the medical substance with dilute tipiril.
SQUILL, or SEA ONION. — ««;/« Marilima. This
ii a native of Sicily, Syria, Barbary, and Spain. The bulb
ii extremely lar^e, and h in one variety white, in anoilier
reddish. It is itwdoroua, bitter, and acrid. The best prepara-
tion of squill for veterinary purposes is the powder of the dri«d
root, which, in tlie dose of one drachm or more, n considered a
good expectorant, and useful in chronic cough: in larger doses
it generally iu:t) as a diuretic, but is noi a desirable mHliriiic
for that purpose, there being many diuretic^ more cerlain in
llteir i-fiV'ct. Gum amnnmiaeum is an elij^ible addition to sipiill ;
and I have sometimes seen camphor and opium joined to it wjih
good effect. One drachm of ibe dried squill is equal to about
five drachms in its fresh stale. There aie three other prepara-
tions of squill made, viz. the spirituous and acetous tincture, and
the oxyme) ; but these are not so well calculated for veterinary
purposes. See Esi'Ectouants.
STARCH. — Triticiun hubemum. Starch glysters with
opium are sometimes employed in obstinate dlarrlnen or irritation
of the rectum. In no other way is starch useful in veierinnry
practice, while the cheaper mucilages, such as linseed, marvh-
mallow, &c. can be procured; but wlien these arc waiitinj^, it
IK capable of making a good mucilaginou* drink. See KmoL'
LICNTS nnd DtMULCENIS.
The preparation named Arratc-root Is a pure starch, and when
Ic into gruel is the best and safest preparation that can l>e
employed In diarrhoea, or to restrain the effect of purging medi-
cine when it has been given too largely. Mixed with a watery
solution of opium it forms a good anodyne glyster.
STAVESACRE; thvseiAls. — Delplitnimn Sia/>iiisaffna. This
ii a species of larkspur, and is a native of tlte south of Europe,
flowering from June to August. The seeds of stavesocre are re-
commended as a topical application in cutaneous complaints, and
for tlestroyiiijj those animalcules which are sometimes generated
u M 4
596
MATEBIA MEDIt-A
upon tlw tion«'B »kin. Tliey arc used cither in the fonn of a
<lfcocttoii, or flnel^r powdered and mixed with train>oil, turpeo-
tine, 8cc.
Two drochnie of siavcxacrc- w<tc given to a glandered borae;
he dicil duriDR tht- nif;ht roUotvjng in grnit pain.
STEEL. ITic mcdirnl properti<-s of »t«l are not supposed
to differ from ihoec of iron. St-r Ikon.
STIMULANTS. A l(*rm of very cxlcnsive signification,
and which may with pmiirii-iy Ih' applied (o the greater pari of
the nrtich-s of tlie M»l<-ri.-i Medica. According to the celebrated
Dr. John Brown, everv nHiliciiw Ww considered as a stimniaut;
but it is probable lltat oonie, panicuhirly the narcotics, have an
opposite cfTv^t; especially tlte distilled laurel water. The lerin
stimulant it generally applied to those *ob«unce« which percep-
tibly increaiM* the motion of (he heart and aru-rif*. Under tliia
Xi/vnA a great variety of remediea arc inchi<)e(l, both internal
and external; among the forater are cordinln, calluiriic^ diu-
retint, &c; tlie latter consisu of embrocations, ointments, Uni-
imitiSi &c.
STOMACHICS. Medicines tliat slrengtlteii the stomach
and excite appetite.
The term is nearly synonymous with cordials in veterinary
medicine: though from stomurliics -kk gem' rally expect a more
permanent effect (h.tn from tito«e preparation* tk-iiominated eor-
dial, as they approach more to the nature of toatct. A few re-
ceipts wilt be given under this head, which are intended for
horses tliat feed badly witltont any ap[>areiit cau»c, and such as
are subject to flaiutent colic and indigestion. Horses of this
description arc generally lean and in bad condition.
I
STOMACHIC BALL.
Na 1. Powdered gentian S dr. to \ 02.
Powdered ginger I dr. to 1^ dr.
Carbonate of soda I dr.
1'reacle enough to form the ball for one doie.
No. 3. Cascarilla, ponrdered S dr.
Myrrh 1^ dr.
entile sonp I dr.
Syrup enough to form the hall for one doae.
N0.3. Powdered Colombo root 4 o^
Powflercd cauia 1 dr.
Powdered rhubarb from 2 dr. to ^ ox.
Syrup enough to fornt the ball for one dose.
AND PIIAHMACUrOEIA.
Bi-Tore stomncliin itre given, s mild cathartic bsll is generally
required. Iriipruper management with R-gard to foodandwalvr
it most cotninonly tho cause of this disoniort-d state of the <ligcs-
tivc organs; loo often assisted by iinniodfrelc work and grncral
ill-trentnieni.
STOPPING, for die fet^t. A mixture of clay and cow-diing,
or trithcr of these separately, ts commonly ii«t-d for tills piirpuse ;
ftnd, by keeiiUt}; the buUonis or sole« of tbc feet moist and cool,
ofleii <io good In &o\&s ili^t nn^ too tbtn and soft, or for the
frogs when in that state, Uie following compo^ilion is more
proper —
Tallow and tar, of each I lb.
To be mixed by melting together.
Mr, Goodwin has contrived a kind of boot for keeping ibc feet
oool and moist, a* well as for applying the alrave comjMuiiioii;
and Mr. Cherry, of Claphan), has recommended a piece of flrnity
comprt-ioied felt or sponge, tu be cut (o the siie of the sole of the
loot, and inserted witliin ibe shoe, after which it is lo be welted
with cold water; thb, by causing it to expand, will prevent It
from falling out. I,in»eed meal forms a good slopping.
STRYCHNIA. Set: Svx Vomica.
STYPTICS arc medicine:! which constringe the blood-veucis
when woniuU*d, *o as to Kiop an elFusion of ulood. Many pre-
parationA have bet-n recommended for this purpose: but when
the size of the woniided vessel is at nil considerable, an adec|UiiIe
degree of pressure by means of bolsters and bandages should
rather be depended upon ; and wlien thai cannot be done, the
vessel must be tied up above the wound and 1>elow, by which the
bleeding will be etfectuaily suppressed. No danger is to be ap-
prehended from slight bleedings in tlie horse, as they always
cease spontaneously.
The styptics commonly employed are oil of turpentine^ di-
luted vitriolic acid, muriate of iron, ubiorbciit eFirlhs, and (lour.
SUBLIMATE, COUKOSIVE. Oxymuriatc of Quick-
ailver. Hydrargyri Oxymiiria*. (Kcw name, Bi- or Pek-lulo-
RIOE OF MEHcuitY.) This is by far the strongest of the
mercurial prep&ra1ion^ and requires to be u»cd with great
caution. It has been employed with micci-^ in farcy: and in
one instance I have seen it cur« (be glanders; but the hone was
shot soon after, therefore it a tincertain wiieiber the cure was
permanent or not. In many cases of farcv iluil were sujipused
I to be cured by subrimatc, aided by external applications, 1 liave
seen the glanders brt-ak out after an interval of a few weeks or
e\cn months. The do»e of sublimate is from eight lo ten,
twelve, or fifteen grain)', given daily, until tlie desired efiect is
produced, or until tlte month becomes sore^ ax \.V« Viuxw iwi.^*
I
I
k
prorucely, and tlipti it thould be diacoDlinu«d a short time.
Wlien«ver sublimuic miVv* a, hone sick, or causes »ny uneasi>
ness ill (be bom-l», it should be immediately discontinued. In
the Tarloufi rxpcritni-iitt that have beeit made upon slandered
horses, it lias bci-n given in very large do6es, eveu to die extent
of (WO drachmii twice a day. No ^ood, liowever, has erer re-
sulted from «ucli lar^i* doMst, and the poor aniroalB lure often
hvm dreiidriitly lorinented by (hem. 1 am now decidedly of
opiniun, that in glandero and I'arcy (be milder preparatioiH
should be preferred, especially Kdiiop'i mineral, and (lie mercu-
rial or blue pill. M. Dupuy injected a solution of aubliiniile
into (he jugular vein of a slandered horae. It caused almost
immediately severe colic pams, and a continual shakini; of ilie
tail. It produced also a remarkable effect Upon the kidneys,
causinf; the horse to stale Ircqueitdy, even In'elve times in Uie
space of a quarter of an hour. The foHowing dav he injected a
stronger solution, which caused still more distressing symptoms:
tlic next day a still stronger solution, which, aAer tormenting
the poor animal for some time, put an end to bis sufTerinEi.
'llw sj-mplonis of glanders were not at all diminished by ■(.
Another glaiuUTcd liursc took sublimale for a month, wiinoal
receiving any benefit from it. M. Houba, a French veterinariai^
gave an ounce of sublimate in a mucilaginous decoction, to a colt
of one y^iRr old affected with fan^'. He increased the dose of
sublimate until it amounted to S ounces, 3 drachms, 21 ^rainii
or 64 grammes (a gramme is 18 grains). Tliis immense <kae»
he hnyt^ aflcr sumediiys, made the ulcers look red, Uie dischaigie
l(wt its offensive smell, and became whiter and thicker, and sooit
of (he ulcers cicatrised; (he colt alw fed well and appeared
(rlM-erful, but after a short lime lie began to discliarge at th«
nostrils, and had a swelling under the ja«~s; in short* he becanw
so badly glandered that it was thouglu necessary to destroy
him. (See DupMi/ de fy^ffectum l\i6ereiileuui, vu^ainrnait ap-
fifUf Morcf., p. It*i^,)
Suhlimnte is often uK'd externally, either in powder or solu-
tion. !t Li a uieful cauotic and external stimulant, and is
sometimes an ingredient in Misters; btit tO employment in this
form \i not to be recoinmen<l(xl.
In virulent caiea of chronic grease 1 have «-cn a solution of
sublimate effect a cure in a very short tiim-.
lu obstinate cases of mange a solution of sublimate is some-
tin)es employed ; but in lliree insunces I liavc known tnHammo-
tion uf the bnweU take place very auoii alter.
Sublimate is dtlBcult of solution in wuht only; it is ust
ilierelbre, to rub it lirst in a mortar with a lidle proof spirit,
with a tittle muriate of ammonia ; but Uie mo«t ready tnrtliod
dissolving it is to rulj \l w»i!u aft ev\\\ifc\ -(ttrt^U of muriatic
*
^^ „>,A
AND PUAKMACONEU. 53(>
Riid ihpti to add sa mucli water as is required. This last solu-
tion is iniicl) stronger (lian anv other.
SUBMUllIATE OF M£RCURY. — //j^mrjvri Su/>mit-
rias. New name, PnoTociiLouii>£ ov Mkucuby. See Calxjmei..
SUCCINUM. Sec Amuku.
Sl'DOIlIFICS, Motlicin€S tlmt causa sensible perspiration
or swcaling. In the horse there is no medicine that will, with
wriainty, produce this effect, and il is only hy exercise or wann
clothing that it can be produced. In locked-jaw a horse haa
Iwrn kept in a Mlate ol' pertpiration for n considerable time by
being cwvcred with slieep^skins. Vinegar and acetate of am-
inonia will sometimes cause jierspinitioii; and Opiuin, with eme-
tic turiar, cuinplior, aiid cmdiaU, nrc said to have a sudoriAc
efi«ct; idao ipecitctianha, witli opitim, camphor, nnd salt of
liartsliorn. [Spirit (ifiiitrniis ether will more freciueiitly produce
a sudorific infect than any other mwliciiie, particularly if joined
with nimphor. — Ed.]
SUET, MUTTON; BEEF. — .9«mM Ovillum; limnnum.
Prepared suet is iiacd in the compoiittion of uiiilinents and
pla«terx. Stict hoili.-d in milk lias liecn recommended in ilw
scouring rot of horned caitlo.
SUGAR OF LEAD. Acetate and Stipcracctate of Ix-nd.
—Saech'irum Snlunii. J'lmn/ii Aceta4 et SiiftTuctttu. Soe Lkad.
SULPHATE OF ALUMINA. — ^//miiW Sulf^kas. See
Alom.
SULPHATE OF COV PF.IL — Cu{>ri Sulphas. Blue vi-
tridi, or blue stone. This preparalton of copper is much used
in veterinary practice as an external application; it is a mild
eetiatic or escliarutic, and, when dissolved in water, forms a good
detergent or astringent lotion. The addition of a little sulphu-
ric, nitrous, or muriatic acid to this lotion increases its strength
as a detergent, and, when the proportion is considerable, makes it
a iirong cauitic. A solution of sulphate of copper in vinegar, or
vinegar and water, mukc^ a good wash for the foot rot in sheep.
Sul|K)aIe of copper should be fmelv powdered when sprinkled
on ulcers, or when mixed with lart) or other unctuous matter
into an ointment. When a solution of sulphate of copper k suffi-
ciently diluted, it may be used oa a mild astringent, and, when
very weak, may be applied even to the eye. Sulphate of copper
has been given internallvasatonic in diabetes, and in fiircy; tlie
dose from half a drachm" to a drachm. •
SULPHATE OF IRON. Salt of steel. Ftrri Suiphai.
* Mr. SewcTI recommeTiiIs fiulfihate of cop|ier in doMa of throe to sis
drachni* will) 1iiibc«I niml, lit the form of adrsualMrar ilanden. ThiM com-
bined, it (-BI) he H<Jiiiiiii->i«r«U in much largrr erne* than in fl ball, without
irriintiiig the ro.iu of Ihc nloinnrh nmt intnliaa. t>tins immeiliulcl}' diffused
over n miicli lar^r Mirt'acc. CJec OlaNDSKs. — &D.
i
310
matehia mkdica
A pivparatioi) composed of gtilpburic acid and oxide of Iron. It
is sonietimos used as a tonic. Tlic dow from one to tlirve or
four drachms.
SULPHATE OF MAGNESIA, or EPSOM SALT.—
Mftgrttiiee Siit/tliat. A mild laxiiliv« iliat may be given wiili ad-
vantage in cuturrlml di»ordi'r«. 'Hie dose from four lo twelve
onriccf, dissolved in » tiitfiricnt C|iianii{y of water. When a
■mall dose is K'^'*'") '^ .shmild lie repeated every fonr or six hours,
until M>n)L- efii-ci is produced.
From four to t-ifthi oiiiicei of caslnr or olive oil is sometitnn
aildttl to a do»e of tti** solution of sulphate of magiiceuu
SULPHATE OF POTASH. — i'o/owa SaJjoAa*. Vitrio-
lated larur, or S«l-polychresi.
This neutral wilt is a more imwerful laxative thnn the sul-
phatea of iiui^nc^ia and soda, and more sparingly soluble in
water. On this account it is most commonly employed iqJ
human medicine, in powder; and, when joined with rbubarlJ
makes a good purgative. It ts seldom used, I believe, (am
horses or cattle, though it may, periiaps make a good laxative jfl
well nibbed in a mor tar with aloes, and then formed inion
ball. I
SULPHATE OF QUININE. — Q«.Vn«* SuZ/Jw. Sed
Baiik. ■
SULPHATE OF SODA. — S«Ab SulphoM. Vitriolatefl
soda, or Glauber's salt. This is a good laxative, and raiber
stronger ilum sulphate of magnesia. I luive been informed bya
correspondent in Ireland, that he employed it with great success
in an epidemic catarrh, and without losing a single paiien^J
while a great number died under a difffi-ent treatment. 1I«I
gave about four to six ounces three times a day. in n <]uari of
water or gruel, until the bowels were opened. It is a |{o«Ja laxa-
tive for cattle: ibe dose from six to twelve ounces.
SULPHATE OF ZINC — a»ct Stitphiu. VitrioUicd
zinc, white viiriol, or while copperas. This is R Strong ustriu-
gcnl application, but may he dissolved in water, and so dilutedJ
OS to make n useful wash for the eye. It is somctimn given in-J
lernally as a tonic ; and, tliougli very large doses have bi-en ffiven
to glandcrcd hoi^-s as an experiment, without causing much in«
convenience, and hair an ounce or more as a Ionic, I am inclined]
to think, by giving daily one or two drachms >t is more likely tin
do good. A strong solution of sulphate of uitc is an excellent^
application lo nuiiturs «iid other ulcers.
SULPHAIES. Neutral salts composed of sulphuric add
and alkalies, enrihs, or metals.
SULPHUR. Itrimsione. Roll (iilphui- is elilefly obtaintdj
from llie sulpburet of copper, li is punlied by fusion, and id
cajit into mould*. U is imo\vi\>Vi: \« -wAev. M
k
AND rilAnMACOPOIIA. 641
Sublimed, or, as ii it commonly cnllvtl, flowpr of sulpliiir, is
{)roctirvd Irom tlie foniifr by lii-ntinB lo ti grmt liout arid col-
Fcting tbf vajHiur, wliich b tlic (luwvr, whilst the drvgs is tlw
sulphur vivum.
Flower ofSttljihur is grnttriiUy givi^ii iti th« dose of one oimcv :
it is commonly joined with nitre iind nntimuny, or nitre and
resin: aiid is then tltotight to tinjiruve the cost and (^enernlcon*
dition oi the horse, or venmve swellings of the heels, and iiirlvit.
I have given sulphur in a vjiriety of doses; but the otdy effect [
coidd perceive nas that of a mild laxative, and tliat did not take
place until four ounces were given al a dose. From (he observ-
ations 1 made on this occasion, 1 do not conceive thai svl/i/mr
IB of much use as an internal remedy in the horse, nor that it
possetees any diaphoretic power. As a topical application in
mange, it is certainly very efficacious, particularly if mixed with
other remedies. See article Manoe.
SiJ/tAur is very serviceable to young dogs, when ihey have any
appearance of plethora or cutaneous disease, generally acting as
a mild laxative: i[ may be given lo ihem in milk, from one tea-
spoonful to two or three.
vV few years ago, M. Collaliie, Professor of the Royal Veteri-
nary School of Milan, published an aceotmt of some suece^ful
experiments he made on glanders. 'I'he medicine he employed
was sulphur, beginning with a dose of four ounces, and increasing
it gradually until he gave two pounds daily, mixed into an elec-
tuary with honey ; he also took away about two quarts of blood
once In two or ihiTe davs. A dose of si\ ounces caused purging;
ten or twelve ounces griping pains and purging. Six ounces of
suipliHr oiritm were then given, wlilch produc-il a i^imllar eflecti
and some of ilie hoi'ses became so exceedingly vivnk that they
lay down, and were unable to rise for ilirrc or four days. When
diey recovered a little from these alarming syinpionis, he found
the discharge from the nostrils much U-s<ened, afi well a* tlie
swelling under the jaws. In some, llie dispase entirely diaap-
pearcd, but after a lew days returned, and was not pcnuttnvndy
curt^d till it had fluctuated in this way several time*. Af[Cr they
had got over the elfcct of the sulphur, on giving it ngain he
found that a dose even of twelve ounces produced no effect; he
therefore htcreosed il to eightei-n ounces, and from that 10
iweniy-four ounces: but It no longer caused either purging or
Sriping. Having continued the me of the nieilicine in thi* large
see for some lime, and Hnding the dliieaKe remain stationary in
some of the horses, he discontinued it for eight or ten days, in
order lo restore the susceptibility of the animal to the action of
sulphur. On rt-coinmenclng the ireainicnt, he joined to six
ounces of sulphur an equal quantity of antimony, which pro-
543
HATER I A HCDICA
(luced a considerable effecl for about fifieea da)*!, when it
lii«ame inactive; liv tlten gavr from twelve to fifteen ouncetof
sulplitir, wiili »ix uuiicea of liver of antimony, and in less iliao
fifteen days lOI die boraea thai liad not a very severe local aOor*
tioii were [K-rlectly free from die disease. Similar lrtal» Itaro
hvcn made tn France since M. Collaine's Report ajij>mred, bul
ibc mull was very diJTercnt. According to M. l>tipuy, in bit
work oil e)ai»ders {Traiti de F Affrelion Tttberade*i»r-,vHtif<tifn»f»t
ap/ieBee Moktc, Sec), lately puhlished, sulphur lias been Iiiifly
tried at die Veteiinary ::«chool of AUbrl, near Parts, and iuis not
•ufcewiod in any one instance : in large denes it causes very di»*
iresMnf^ symptoms, viz. colic, purcing, and great debility; luxl
some of the horses died under ine treatiiienL It is probable
that sulphur may sometimes hare caused a temporary cessaiKxi
of the discharge from the nostrils, and as M. Collaine has noi
publishctlanylliingfurdM^r on the subject, he a probably become
M?ss sanguine in Ins expectations from (his mode of trefttment.
lie obeervps in his Report, that sulphur viviait {toujre brut) pr<h
duoed a greater effect than flowers of siUphnr; atid J am in-
clined to believe lliat sMlpbur victim, when finely powdered and
tiAcd throiigii a fine sie^-e, will do jiist as well, if not better, for
mange ointment or liniment, (lian the flower of sulphur, which
it more expeiuive. When flower of sulphur is given internally,
for mange or other cnlaneous diseases, it may be joined wiui
levignti.-<l anlimonvi or larUirixcd aniimony. as in the Ibrmula
under the head Alteratives.
SULPHURETS. Combinations of sulphur with nlkalin
oarlhs, or metals, llic preparations of this kind wwd in veteri-
nary nutlicine arc sulphtiret of antimony (see ASTiMnNv), sni-
phurt-1 of araenic (»ec Oki'imest), sulphuret of merrnry, black
and red (see KthiopV mineral and cinnabar), sulphuret of
potash, or liver of lufuhur. Tliis lost is a good i-emody lor dii-
cmn of the skin, sucn as mange, tfnd may be given inwardly ai
nn antidote to certain poieons as arsenic, lead, and pre{iiaratioot
of mercury.
SULPHUKIC AClD.—AcidumStilphuriatm. Vitriolic acid.
or oil of vitriol, Sv-c Acids.
SWEET SPiniT OF NITRE. See Acid, Nitric and
NlTBOUS.
SYRUP. — Syru/ms. For all vcierinary puipoaes treade U
a good and a clicap substitute for syrup.
TALLOW. A mixture of equal parts of tar and tallow is a
good application to brittle hoofit.
TAK. — J'ix fji/uitia. This is a good remedy for thrushes,
and other diseases of ttw Jro^- It appears to pronMiic tlie
^'rowth of horn, by gi.'nlly rtimuloling the secretory vessels of
iJial part.
I
AMI) VHAnUACOrOMA. &43
'flic rotten pnrts of tlw frog liaving becti carpfully retnovetl
widi a kiiifc, und On- ml wdl clcunsttl, (he tar is to be melted
and potir«l into tlic cleft or cavity : h plwlgct of tow is tli^n to
bo lattl on l)>v part an<l routined by nome proper coDtrivunce,
In bad auc«, a small proportion of sulphuric acid should be
carefully mixed with the tnr; and when n tbruih has de^feiierated
into the di«eB»e t(^iiie<i canker, a large proportion of the acid
■faouid be employed. S<x Liniments.
Tar mixed with oil of turpentine And cantharidcs forois
a strong bhttlcr. It is sometimes employed as a remedy be
coti;;!).
iar, when mixi-d with verdigris or finely powdere<l blue or
white vitrio), forms a good liniment or ointment for canker or
ihrushe*. It may be occasionally eminluyed with nliini, and,
vrhon mixed with tallow, Is mi exceJtent Mopping foi' flat thin
soleiL In tix- hitter form it niakeK a good hoof ointment ; and,
when rubbed about tlie coronet and hootj it Mid to render the
hoof tough.
'VARTAR.-^ 7'arfarum, An acid lubstance, found about
tlte Kides aiid Iwnomo of casks in which wiiw i.i fermented ; when
purified, it i» termed cryjlai*, or cream, of taiui-. Farriem gene-
rally employ it in (heir purging nu-dicinec^ upon the authority of
tome old writers, who suppoKed it to have the property of cor-
recting aloe*. Sec CATMAiiTicg.
TARTAR, \ ITRIOLATED. See Sulphate »r Potash.
TARTARIZED ANTIMONY. See Emetic TABTAUand
Antimosv.
TARTRATE OF POTASS. See Soluble Takab.
TERKBINTHINA. See TtinritSTiNr..
TIGLII OI.KUM. Croton oil, which see.
TIN. — Siatmum. Tins metui i> a good anthelmintic for
doigs; and though not employeil in veterinary pi-actice, appeati
to be worth a trial. I hav<T' known great numbers of wonns dis-
charged from dogK, by giving filings or scrapiturs of pewter,
which is composed principally of tin and lead. Tlie dose about
a drachm. Si-e ANTnEl.MlNTlCs.
TINCTURES. — 'I'inctunr. Medical preparations made by
iiifu»ng or digesting vegetables, &e. either in rectified or proof
spirit. Examples:' — Compound tiiMtureof benzoin, commonly
luimed Friar's or Tniumatic balmm, is made by digesting gum
benzoin, aloes, &c in rectified spirit. Tincture of opium
is made by digesting opium in proof spirit. There are also
tinctures made with vinegar, such as squill and meadow eailroii.
Com{>onnd spirit of ammonia, likewi&e, is sometimes employed as
a menstruum, as in the volatile tincture of guaiacum, and foetid
spirit of ammonia.
I
L
S44
MATERIA MEDICI
TOBACCO. — Nirotiatta. ItiU ia somoiimes j^vcn tn lioMM
by RTOoms for tlit- ]iumiiiti> of keeping th«r legs fine."
TOLr, BALSA >l OF. Sw BAU-iAM of Tolo.
TON'lC.'^. Tonits, according to Murray, are those
stances wlion; pninarj' opfnitioii is to give strength to ttie tj
I«cn. TlH*ir opemimn is not niecluinienX as was once eonoeivrci ;
ihcy net not on itie simple M)lid», increasing their tension or tone,
but on the iiring fibre, and are merely powerrul stimulants ptr-
nmnent in ttieir ojx-ration. By producing a gmdual exciiemeni.
tlH>y ^ive vigour to ilie actions of lite sysieni; and as that ex*
ciiemi'ni is gnidually produced, it i& in like manner grndualiy
diminished, and l)ie iinbitual £timuli conliniiing to operate, di-
minished aclioa doe« not succeed. Where tonics, however, are
given in excess, are used unnecessarily, (»r for too long a tim«^
tliey weaken the powers of life. Tonics act primarily on the
stomach, the action iliey exciie in that organ being communicated
generally by the medium of llie nerves lo the rest of the M'stem ;
some of them, however, are received into the maM of the blood.
The immediate effects of a tonic, given in a proper dose, are to
inereosp ihc force of the eirctilation, to augment tne animal heat,
promote the v.nrious ;tccrctionB, or moderiilc litem wlwn morbidly
incrcH»r<l, quicken digestion, and render muscular action more
aay nod vigoi-ous. By mmc of ihotn these effects are very
slowly )ndiic<tl. The aifcctions of tite system in M'hich tonic;
arc employed iiiu»t Ih- obviously those of debility. But pre-
vioosly to their being employed, it is necessary to inquire on
wliat that debility depends; if it be simply on want of l«>e, a*
it is termed, in the stomach, and conseciuently in the system in
general, the use of tonics is clearly indicated; but il it arise
* A slion time ante an infiuloii of about two ounces of totiarco, in n quart
or liccr, wu ^vrn ta a tion* merely for the fnifpi>te of keeping his lieeli fine.
He died itnmodiatcly nllcr lading it.
I WBsnotpTowntwbentliuicircumttiinccorc'tirrcil.btilaiii utitiicdof thcinith
orit. lam Inclinnl ti> boliovc, however, (hni tlivre mutt hsve bci-n something
in thui CMC ihiii wai not dii<over«tli — the itaniacb may hnvie been previon^
(liaeoied. I hutr, viDiin u ihori pcTJotl, pvm on InAuton of tobacco, at Wl
M the lubsM'O tliut lb« infiLiiun hnd hrcn mitik from, in the dni« ol' two,
three, and four oiinreii. Tliir only perceptible ctlcct ««« a ihiTering, vol an
appenmnri' which inilicHtoil a curiMilcr^ite ndeclioii ot* the ttonach, nut
altogether tike nuuwn, ycl npprmii.'hing towanls it : hut ihc clli-et wa> tnuMioit.
Aci'urilini; tu Uoarilinnii, nn infiuion of three iwuiiik ot tobacco has l)een
givrn » ithoul liKit hi lluiirgclat'ii " Mati^ M6ticalc KaitORnr«^" it i* uii<
to make nn cflicncioiis clytrter inubiiinatecoxtiTencJuit andispratcrSicd alio in
chew irift- bulla or manticatoriea. Miiriulc ornrninoaia, (liutotretl m adecixriion
of toLincca, in ntid to be a gooA reniiody for the mange ; nibbing the affeclbt
paitd Htth the iVesh leaves of tobacco i^ soitl to hare the ••me eiftct. It is
nlM) cniployfd lor the mange in iheep nnil Uoga, and in tbc latter »rrve« tu kill
Heni anil lickl.
IThe smoke of tol)ftccohiHV>c«ictB^U>]«iJ ss on injection in obtttinatc con-
stifislion widi gootl eOcct. — Ed.\
ANU rMAIlNACOItEU.
i._ .,.,.„,.
Mbonr and c-xnosurr lo iIh- iiicluiicnfiM of ihe woallier, or ihe
exhnlntioiiK ul n dnmp, doM', filthy stublr, Ionics njli avail
nothing; until i1)l- Miitiiiioti, ii'i'nitm-nt, nnd food, ar? matemlly
improved; that such cnicl (tnd iiboniiimbk* IrcutriK-iit in frfciiienily,
if not aiwajs, the cauw of (lability in hoi^i-s is well known;
tlierdbre no fVirtlifi- comin<'n[ tipon ihr folly and crtifily of stich
treatmeiic » n<wM«ry in i]m iilnce. B<>lui'e ionics arv given, it
n generally nm-twniry to giv« some warm purj^tive me<]icinc.
While lite hiirKe is taking tunics, j^i-eat iitlfiiliun i^iould be paid
to his diet; and it vrmild not 1m> going too far, I believe, were I
to assert, that by judicious management with regnixl lo 1o(k),
Brooming, aiid exercise, and the occasional use of mild plmid
horses would seldom require tonic medicine.
Tonics may be divitfed into minerals and vegetables; the
former are generally considered llie most powerful, and, 1
believe, are ai this lime generally prefen-ed, not only on account
of tlieir supposed superior efficacy, but likewiw, probably, from
their being less ex|K>nBive, and the dose less bulky and incon-
venient.
In llie foniier editions of this work, I have generally given
ihem a preferenn*, btit lubtcquent experience and reflircliun
have le<i me to employ lliem with more caution, and with letJt
ronlidence in ilielr reputed innoxious qualities; for, nutwilti-
siAnding the immense do^es of arsenic, and blue vitriol (aulphnii-
of copper), that have l)een given without producing any imme-
diate ill effect, it is liighlv probable that the siomacn Euners ma-
terially, especially when the use of such medicines is persisted in.
I have examined a horse's stomach that had bcvn inking these
mineral tonics, and thought ihcy liad not diminished the animal's
appetite or altered his api>eai'ance ; on the contrary, he was in
high condition, and did hia work well, yet, bcinj{ glandered, was
destroyed. The slomacb, however, had been greatly injui-ed,
and would, no doubt, had ihe animal lived ntucb longer, liave
produced some senous disorder.
This question naturally arises: — In what respects are those
mineral tonics, so well known as powerful {joisons in the human
body, preferable to those oblainetl from llic vegetable kingdoni?
In tbe fii'st place they are considered iis tlic only medicines
capable of curing tbo glanders and farcy, and are llicrefore pre-
scribed for tho«c diseases. I have never seen a single case of
glanders permanently cured, either by araeiiic or blue vitriol,
notwithstanding tbc numerous trials I have witnc«4ed during a
period of more than twenty years. Farcy has certainly disap-
peared in many instances white taking itMse mi-dicim's, hut iil
the same time some local remedies were employed) that it, tbe
tkrey sores were drewed wilb some cavwvVc, mcV\a,t<^<\^, ok <\>t\t^-
k
S4fi MtTKRIA MRDICA ^^^|
ffeiitcoro|M»iuoii; ami it is w«ll known tliul (iircy, i.e. llieaorre,
I btitU, and all lite externa) iiyinptoms or n{>)icnranors may |tene-
I rally be renunetl l>v exuTiial apiilica lions hIuiiv; tlitrrofore it is
[uiieeitain wl»ai stwie the tonic, w)ictl>er it be ursenic or blue
' vitriol, lifts Itad in the cui*eor ilic diwasr. Another circnmsiance
to be consiHered i«, tliat farcy, tltotiglt apparenlly cuivcl by meant
of iliosc strong ine<:lieinf!i, is nfu-n iiol rrully or pcrmaaeiiily
I «radicati'<l, but fn-ciuently is «uc<:ct-<lc(l by gloiidt-n ; ntul, thougli
[■tlie interval between the disapf>carancv of (uvy nitd tlie appear-
I sncc of glandon U somotimn constdonkble, l)K'rr arc circunt-
I Klanccs wbieb render it extrtnm-ly probable tiMt ihcy arc con-
aeclMJ, and dq)cnd on tlic op4wati<>n of the saimt caiu«. Bui
whaU'vvr iiluirv ar»riiic, blur vitriol, or iiibliiiuiiir nuiy Iwre had
iit till- curt-* iluit have bi>ii effrctcd, whetlier ]>rrniiiitcnl or only
h'Hiponiry, »mail doK-s liave ffcnvmlly been fuiinil sufKcicni;
itliat i*, of nrtfiiic, from ten lo (itWn or twenty |rr«iiu ; suWi-
ttnattf, from \»n to fiitt-cn grains; blue vitriol, from liulfu drachm
|>to one dmclim, or, at most, two dmcbniit ; white vtiric^, from ooe
' to three drachm*. Tlie exprritneiits, iherelbrc, in which lam
dosei have been given, »uch n* two drachms of arM^nic or siiblt-
inate once or twice n day, and cotitintied for some time, should
never be rejieated, a> they arc rt^iy more likely tu defeat tlic
rpurpose for vkhich they ar^ given dun to promote it; niid there
can be no doubt that, noiwitJixtanding tlie liitle immediate cfTcct
ihcy appear to have on the atoniach, this important organ isol^en
most xeriuiitily and iHrrnium-iilly injured by them.
'I'lie followiiif^ are fonnuhi^ for toiliCTi: —
No. 1. Arsenic from 5 lo 10 gr. H
■ Sulphate of copper -i dr. ^|
w Opium I dr. ^|
b Powdered caraway's } DX. ^|
I Treacle enough to form the ball. S
No. 2. Arsenic & to 10 gr.
Opium „,. ^ dr.
■ Sulphate of zinc 2 dr. ^|
I Caraway seeds. ^ ox. H
r Trcaele enough lo form l)iv boll. H
No. 3. Powdered cantharldes 6 to 12 gr. fl
• Snlptiatf of iron 3 dr. ^|
i Gentian 2 dr. fl
¥ ninger I dr. fl
9 Treacle to form a ball. fl
The opium m l\ww \m.\\» w \tt\e\v6«A \o «raUI« Uw stomach to
I
AND PIIAnSIACOPaiA.
bear tlie mineral prepiirnlions bolter ihui it oilierwise could ; but
by miitiy practitiotifi-i; it is tliuMp;lit unm-WTWiiry.
In fiircj', aubliniittv (oxyinuriatv of mercury) nmy be ii<tfled to
either of the bulla; but tbi» im-clicini* cannot, with propriety, bf
claKed wilh toiiin in veterinary medicine, Tor its effect, when
given far several dnyx, i^ iliut of proilnoiii^ d«bility, and an in-
creawd flow of urine. Tlie dcue ix tbo Mnne iis arsenic. Tltc
vegetable lonict I con*ider ai an iinporUinl elikits oT me(lic-iii»'.
A description of each, <u well nt of wich minenil tonic, will bf
found under it^ respective nunie.
VeORI-ABLK TOVICS.
No. I. Peruvian bark I oz.
Opium ^ dr.
Ginger 1^ dr.
Oil of caraways 20 drops.
Treacle enough to form the ball. — One doee.
No. 2. Caicarilla „. 'i dr.
Geiiliu) root 3 dr.
Opium j dr.
Oil of cnrawnys 20 dropt.
Treacle enough to fonii the ball.
Na 3. Gentian root 3 dr.
Opium J dr.
Cascarilla ■ I dr.
Myrrh I dr.
Carlwnati; of soda I dr.
Treacle enough to form tlie ball.
No. 4. Colombo _ 3 to 4 dr.
Opium ^ dr.
CuKsia I dr.
Powdered alUpicv 2 dr.
Treacle enough to form the ball.
Theae formuliu may be considerably vaijed, or giren an
drenches in warm ale, or in ai) infu»ion of some aromatic or
bitter herb, and if preceded by a mild purjraiiri.?, and affiiHled by
a light nutritious diet, will often do much f^od, more |>erbapt
than the mineral ionics.
TORMENTIL ROOT.— 7V/r«r«/;flu ofUcinalU. 'IVw is a»
indigenous |>ereniiial ptani, growin>; cliiefly in dry heathy tpobi.
It is a powerful astrln;ji:ni. and itt iumeiimii tmp1oye<I in diar-
rlHM ill borws and horned cattle.
MATEKI
On« ounce, or oiie ounce and a Italf, bi-inf; bnilfd in tliri-e
{liiiu of water to one pint and r linlf, vriili u liltlr cnxnia mid
(-ftrnwny seeds, makee one dotf, which amy bu rcp»tc<) if tu^
TUAGACANTH GUM: or GUM DRAGON. -/*.fr»-
ffalm veritt. The shrub from w))i<;h lhi» |{iini it obtaiiiod is a
native of l\-raia. When good, traiTBcanlh «hoidd Ih' whiihh, semi*
iransparcni . inodorous, and Iravinj; ii ^liglilly bitter Uiaie m the
mouili wtwn cbe«fd. Its propcrtic* art- <kinulci'nt, utd, as it
yields n slroni; iiiucila^r, it may be employed instead of gun)
arabtc in iIh- formntion of einollirnt drink*.
TRAUMATIC, or FKIAK'S BALSAM.— VVar/iiM Brn-
xoini Cmn(Mf*ita. Traumatic baluiut U the compound liiKturcof
benxoin, and i« madv in ilie followiiiff manner: —
Bcnxoiii 0 ox.
Strained storax baUam 3 ox.
Bakam of lolu I oz.
Extract of Bpiked aloeti p ox.
Ucctilied spirit »... 1 qt.
Dige«t for fourteen day», hu<1 filter or strain.
fAi tbt name of this balsam implies, it is gen^rallv eRipIoynl
as nn application to wounds which retguire a slight stimulus. It
i< rarely prescribed a« an internal remedy, although it has Ixtn
deemed useful in chronic cough, and soiiie otJier pulmonaiy af-
lectionii. As it is decomposed by water it must, when admiiiis'
lered internally, be first triturated with mucilaffe or yolk of egg,
in order to suspend it in aqueous fluids. See Kr.NZOiN.
TRITICUM; FARINA; AMYLUM. Wheat; wliwi.
flour; starch. Wheat is never gi^-en to horses as food in this
country, both on account of its price, and because it is apt to
produce colic. Wheat-flour gruel is occasionally given in di]ir-
rhfca, and starch is sometimes used in tliccotnpoeittonof clystcn
in the Kume di«eflse.
Tl'KNIPS. Boilc<l turnips make an excdlrnt poallict* for
llie heels when utfccted with grx-ase.
TUKPKNTINE.— 7>r<*.WA.W. This term i* applie.1 lo
the re«inous juices of certain tree*. There arc four kinds, vix.
Chio, Strasburgh, Venic*-, and common turpentine; the two tut
only are employed in veterinary medicine. They are <>fieetiMl
diuretics, and posses* n coiiRidcrablc carmtnalivc power. Copt-
mon turpentine is a prinei]>nl ingredteitt in dijt^lirr and dewr-
gent ointments.
In s]K!akitig of the tnrprnlini-s Dr. Pjiris says, iWy nil pOMi'u
tfM> sajiie cliemicHl ia wcU iw tnefliciiinl pro(H-Mie»; vi/, Cnnadn
liirpenline, or Canada WWnv, «* 'xt i& Mtnwvvom imitropcrly
Ann rilARMACOIHXIA.
S49
eall«<l, U obtained from tlie Hinuit BulsnniM. 2(ily, ChJan or
Cyjirua tui-pentii)?, IVom rho I'i*taclitfa Ti>rel)iTithinus. 3tllyi
Common, or lioi'w lurptDtiiit'. from tlio I'innit Sylvrtlris, or
Scotch fir. Jill!)', N'enice turiwntiiie, fioin tlii? Finns I^rix:
fi-oni the twigs of which apetisa of fii' tht- eascno; of ijirucv in
made. True Ri;;a linl^m is made from the ahuoti of ihc Pinu-t
Ceinbra, previoudy bruised and macerated for a month in wati^r.
The same fir affords also Brian^on turpentine.
Hy distillaiiui) wc obtain t)ie oil, or, as it is sometimes termed,
thv spirit of turpentine, a incdicilic of great utility. In doai-s
of two, ihrer, or fonr ounces, it fretiueiitly cures the flatulent
colic, or ]{riprs; and, when combined with camphor aud other
Ktinuilant^ tnitkes a f{ood onibrocaiion for indurated swellings,
Htraiiis, and brui>K«.* When properly mixed with mustard, it
Ibrinx an embrocation llinl has been found serviceable in coun-
teracting tn/CT^in/ inflammnlion. I have si«n it applied to ob-
Htiuate ulcer* with good eftV-ct. It is an useful ingredient iri
blistering- ointment, and lininionlM.
It is nlso if prujK'rly mnnaKed, the moKE efficacious medictno
ittat can be tiniployed for expt-llin^^ worms from the bowels. In
large <lHses it generally act» a* a purgative, c^pi.'cially when iho
bowels arc previously relaxed by bran ma-ities, or ii sinidl dose of
aloes. In snial) dosea it iit a powerful diuretic. Mr. Coleman
considered it almost a speciHc in flatulent colic in a dose of four
ounces, mixed with (j;ruel. It has been given to the extent of eight
ounces at a dose, without injury ; but m one case a dose of four
ounces produced a fatal inflammation of the etomncb and bowels:
in thb case, however, a dose of physic had been giv»n the day
beforehand the horse had a considerabte poi'ifint^ ui the lime the
turpentine was exhibited. In the hnm;in body two druchniK of
oil of lurpenlinc may no excite the kidney* nn to produce bloody
urine, wbeiviw six or t-ight dmchina will siiniulate the bowels,
and purge vriiliout atfeciina; the urinan,' organs, or only in a
moderate degree. It is said^o be almost a specific remedy for
tape worm, iii the human Imdy, always discharginft it dead ; and
in obstHiate coiistijuition, de(>ending on afiections of the brain,
Dr. Paris says he lias several tim«s witnessed its bon<'fieiiti
cHects.
Dr. Latham considers it a valuable tnediciue in epilepsy. A*
a veu-rtniiry nu-dicine it is cei-tainly of great value ; and though
in H few ctUK-is when given internally, it has produced violent
elTects, merely, I believe, from bad manaxemeni, yet when judi-
ciously administered, it may be employed in a dose of four ounces,
with advantage and safely.
* Oil of turpentine, when siiiiliuJ to the skin of the hnrtc utiilHiited, pro*
dure* sn eiroMlT« de^venf Irrilntion : it nhuuM tlicrefotc »lwn;» betiwvBA
with oil wbcn no applied. — Ki>.
560
MAI en I A MitnicA
I linvff long discontinunl tli« um^ of oil of turpviitine in nty
pnwlice BR B remedv for flatulent colic, f;rip<-it, nr fn't, finding
the prepanilions of opium far more ^ectua). (Si-c Orii'M.)
With r«*pect to worme, I considi^r it U of more imporlancc to
pr«-venl worms tlian lo cxpci tlwiii from the bowH». Wlii-n tlie
•lumacb has been weakened or dinonlercd, worm) will In- jp-iw^
rat^ ill tbc bowels, and (*von in ilw jirUTM's o" whnu-vt-r food
tJie animal is kept. To t*X(K'l ibwn, ih<Ti'fi>re, from ihe bowrls
is doine but lilllc for tli« cure of the ditorder; and tboee medi-
cines which do i>x|M'l them, $uch as oil of turpentine, and large
doses of calomel, niity increase that morbid state of the stomach
on wliich ih^-ir exigence dependa. See anicle Wousis.
Wnic** tur]>entine i» generally made by mixing liic oil with
the common turpentine, which is easily done witen tlie latter is
melted.
Venice turpentine is sometimes employed as an ingredient in
oough medicines. The dose is about half an ounoe. But if
given at a remedy for flatulent colic, or as a diuretic, a larger
quantity is necessary. It makes a K<^iod detergent ointment, if
mixe<i with about a fourth or a (bird part of red precipiiaie,
finely [wwdcred.
TUKPKIH MINKRAL, or YEI-I.OW SUB-SlTIv
PHATE OF QUICKSILVKK. — S«A.j.«jJ>*fl< Hydraryifri
FhmiM. 'Iliis mercurial pre|Uimiion is sekloin UMt) in I'eteri-
nary practice, being apt to irribite llie stoniaeb and bowels, and
L brin^ on violent [nirging ; but it hot been recommended n* n
I n-medy foe farcy.
I 'i'he dose is from half a drachm to a drachm.
I It is givfii Its an emetic to doffs, w)»en iliey have swallowed
I any poisoiioas eubxtance, or at the commeneenieni of ihr di*-
I ttmrttr; but it should give place to better ireatmeni.
I UNGUENTS or OINTMENTS. — Um/wnta. See Oikt-
' VAI^EKIAN KOOT, WILD.— /'fl/mona o^W/w. This
is an indigenous i>erenniul pinni, the root of wjiich has a strong
. unpleasant odour, aitd a bitter and ratlter acrid taste. Tlw
I dried root is employed by medical pniclilioners in sp«ismotlic and
I nervous complaints. Tincture of valerian it> employed for spu-
I tnudic colic. The do«e is an ounce.
I \ EKATKUM ALBUM. White hellebon-. Sec Hki-jh-
I BORE.
I VERDIOKIS. — j^iruffa, Suhiiaeta* Cupri impura. Impure
' tubacetate of copper. This is made in wine countries, by bufr-
\n^ thin copper plates in the refuse parts of tlie grape, after (he
juice has b<-en pressed out. It is employed exlcrnally as a mild
oaintic or detergent, and is frequently mixed with common lur-
/K>filiiie) or ointm«iu», W iW wm* Ywv\K»e. %««; Of^TcnaKKTs
AKU PItAIIMACUfCKIA.
Aiid DioEsTivKs. Common verdigris lia£ been rc-cui»nti'iidcil as
a r«Ri«<)y fur (III' f^irc}'; hut I liiiTi- never seen it (to «n_v giiod
in that conigilnini, though I liave si-vcral times given it a trial.
It has h'^L-n fairly tried in the giiiiidcr»: hair an ounce won
given daily lor a considerable time, hut it had no elleet on tht-
disease, nor did it occasion any inconvenience lo Uie aniinnl.
This 13 rather remarkable, as verdigris U considered aa a poiioii
in the human body, and is the substance which causes the dele-
terious eflecla which copper vessels, wlien employed for cnliiun'y
i
purpoees, have sometimes occasioned.
VESICATOUIKS. A term
I
I
term synonymous with blisters.
VINEGAR. — Aatuin. 'Fliou^h medical practitioners prefer
distilled vinegar, yet for veterinary purposes the best undistillcd
vinegar is just as proper. It makes an useful embrocation, with
sbout a tenth part of sal ammoniac or muriate of aininonia, for
inflamed Bwelhnf^g; and when neutralised with prepared ani-
moniih or salt of liartohorn, forme a pivparntion, eonietimes em-
ployed in fevers, and termed M iiid<Teru»'« spirit.
Vinegar is sometimes used alone as an embrocation for strains,
bruises, or inflamed swellings of any kind, and ofUMi with sue-
J it may be made more elleclual, however, by the addition
^SbI ammoniac an<l proof spirit, or by being mixeil with a small
qtianlily of sugar of lend and water, according lo the circuin-
ttance* of the case. A solution of honey tii vinegar i« termeil
an oxymel, and is sometimes used as u remedy for cougtia: this
is said to be nearly ilte same prepamtion w* Uodbold's vegetable
aynip, wliicli has been sometimes recommended by farriers to
cure broken wiixl, an incurable disease ! See Acctatcs ami
KMRHOCATIONg.
VINUM. .S.-e\VisE.
VITUIOL, IJLUK and WIIirE. See Sulphatk of Coi-
F£it, and SuLPHATR OF Zinc.
VITULOLIC ACID.—Jcidum Saiphuricum. This, which
is more commonly named oil of vitriol, is now in all modern dis-
pensatories named sulphuric acid, and its combinations are
therefore named tulphaiet.
WATER. — Aqua. Much has been written respecting the
diilerent qualities of water, some having been con»i<l<;red as very
injurious to hoi-ses, while olhent liave been said to promote
heultli and condition. Dr. Bracken thought hard or ptipip
water hiibic to produce the gravel or stone; and other authoi'H
'have hud xtiU more whimsical notions on this subject. It
appears probable that liuiispari'nt and sweet water, tliat is, such
as is most gratel'id to man, is most wholesome for horses, whether
it be taken from a well or from aiw other situation. The ill
vfTecis that have somelimes resulted Irom drinking certain kindii
K s 4
MATCniA MEDICA
of water may dqiend upon iu beiDg di-ai)k too Urftirly, or ul loo
eold a tvmpcrnluiT, at n lime when ihe Ktoniacti was nut in a
contlition for Receiving lo much, or upon its being so ill-tattcd
lluit iIm' Imrsc dties not lake a sufficient qitaniiiy lor the purpoMi
of iti^aiilion ; or, if he doe&, il may crcalc that (k-gror of iiauKroi
tvhi<-h {>ror4>a injurious to thr stomach. In (Icc)) vi-\U rhc- water
ta gvtie-raliy about the same iciiipcrnturc, both in wiiiUT and
summer, that is, about 40^ of Fahivnhcii'ii tlH'rmiHncttT. If u
horse, therefore, in a hot sumnirr day* ofler being heated hy
exercise, should drink freely of such com pantli rely cold water, it
would probably do him a serious injury; for t)K> water of pondi
or runnin}; streams may at that tinw l)e fifteen degrees wmriner.
In winU-r, however, the wuirr of deep welU is generally to be
pi-efcrmi, beirif; eonxidi-rably wnrnier than that of ponds or
streama. A« to the small quantity of Milpliate of lime tliat hard
wal4'r may contain, ii is not probable that il contributea in any
degree to the formation of atones either in the bowels or bladder.
It is certain, however, that tlie temperaiui'e of water, the qiian-
liiy taken at a time, ilie stale of the body when taken, and
(.■specially the state of ll>e stomach, arc circumstances that ought
to Ik- carefully ailcndcil to. The practice of medicating water,
that i*, of mixiii;; nitre, salts, ;kc. with it, may be proper when
hones require only a mocLerale quantity of water; but when
dilution is coitsidenrd necessary, their water elioukl be as free
IVoni ta-Hte or «iim'II bx poMiblc.
Horses inidcr the operation of cathartic medicine, or physic,
siiiH'limes refuse warm water, often because il is loo warm, or
of an unpleasant or »moky smell or taste; in such cases it should
Im- offeri-d a little colder, aiKl free from any offinisive smell.
Horses are often watered only twice a day, and tlion suffered lo
drink m much as they liavc an inclinstioi) for; this is pariicu-
l.irly injuriims to such as liarv voracious appetite*, or worms,
chronic couiich, imperfect or broken wind. Sucli horses should
liavc a small or moderate qtiaiitily three or four time* a day,
and their hay and corn ahoidd be moistened ; this would
rlimini«ti their ap|K'tile for water, which is generally inordinate;
and if they are allowed to drink much, they are tlie more iu-
cHucd to Mil immorkTately ofhay, if they are restrained in whieh
lltey will ofti-n lU-vimr even llwir litter, howerer loul it may be^
and tliefi-fare iireatly aggravate Uieir complaint.
WAX, BEKS'. — Cmj Flara. Bw«-wa
composition of ointments aiHl plnsicr*.
WHEAT. SeeTaiTicuM.
WHITE-WATbK. This is a mixture of oatmeal and water,
atHl is a gawl nourishing drink for bursM that huve dune n hard
day's Work, ll i» a g,<iMl \hing to accu»iuni \ianv* to drink
-wax is used only iu the
■•llAIIMACIlPfEIA.
»
white-waier, as, when Ki^villy f«tigii«l, a lior»e will generally
ilriiik, bill cannot si>iuciiiiH'> he indiicc'd to cut.
WINK. — /'tMum. In Krencli buoka on K<rriCTV, wine is
generally recommended, not only alone, but as a vdiicle for
other cordials. Thiv proI>nbly lias led tome furriers of ihis
country to preitcribo port wine in )il>era] doai'r*, both to borseti
and cattle. There i* a ^reiit diHerence, Iiowfver, both in the
quality or 9tren{flli, as well as in the price of pnri, and the
French winea; and it iii not probable that the best French wines
arc ever given to horses or cattle. The port wine of this country
contains a Uirae proportion of alcohol (see Alcohol), no leu
indeed, according to Mr. Brande, in some specimens he ex-
amined, than 25 per cent. That is to sav, taking the alcohol
natiirDlly contained in the wine, or rather the {|uanilty produced
by the fermentation of tlie juice of the grape, with the brandy
added to it previous lo exportation, it amounts to one-fourth
part of alcohol, or one-half of proof spirit; Uil, when the wine
is of sufficient age, the spirit is so intimately blended with the
other constituent parts, that the strength of the liquor is not
manifest to the taste. The French wiue commonly employed
for horses and eattle is not stron};er, perhaps, lliuri our cider.
Jn M, Voipi's veterinary work, which I have before spoken of
(wc Ktiiioi>*s Minkral), he directs no l<-ss ilian two or three
botlk« of generous wine to be given at one dose, in n disease he
{enH*^nvf prrnirieujf. With regard to wine in this country, I
know of no discuse in which it is really necessary; as a Utile
warm beer and ginger, or diluted brandy, will effect every thing
that can be accomj>lij>hed by wine, A bottle of port has been
occasionally given with good effect after severe exliaustion from
hunting.
WINTER'S HARK. — IVintcm AmmaHca Cortex. The
tree from wliicli this bark is obtained is r large evci-green, a
native of the Straits of Magellan. 'I1)e bnrk nan an ai-omalic
odour, and a hot spicy taste. It ix n pK-aMint stimulnnt; and
though not commonly used in voteriimry [nactico, may be given
witli guild effect in cantx of indigetliou and weakneu of*iomach.
The dote from itirei* drachmn to one ounce every morning.
WOLFS HANK, or ACONITE, — -i«>ni?Mffl. A danger-
ous medicine in the horse, and never employed, its ciTcci having
been ascertained upon glandered hoiiwrf. See Kemarks on
Fi,ouii or SitLfiiL'K and Aci>mtl'.u.
YEAST. — Cerfvifia Frnnenlam. Veiut may be H«ed to
form a poultice with liuseed-nM'al for the purpose of correcting
the ofli'usive discharge from foul ulcers.
YEW THEE, The leaves of this tree are poisonous lo
hones and cuttle. See Foibons, Veuctaule.
554 MATEHIA HEDICA AND PHARHACOPtEIA.
ZINC — Zimmx. A metallic eubtunce, or nther a M>ini-
metal, the oxide of which is named Fbmieri of Zinc {which see).
It affords other medicinal preparations, the most useful of which
is sulphate of zinc, or white vitriol. This is employed in making
astringent lotions and eye waters, and is sometimes siven inter-
nally as a tonic. See Eye-water, Astrinoemts, '^micb, and
Flowers of Zinc
^^^^^H^^^^^l
INDEX. H
AanouiM, viMtm of, M; wound* of.
Bowel*, Kruolurv cd*, 96; inflaninialiiui ■
90.
of. I UO. ■
AtaNi^ sen i irroui, 9SH.
BTsin, 4^j iaflamuiarioii of, 104: 1
Abwrbenu. 390.
dropt}-, lOS. H
Acuir founder, SUA.
BmkiaK down. S73. H
An oTb hortir, lumlir of judRingi A7T.
Breeding, principln and prulico of, ^^|
Atr, MimrjAplivrid) rampo^rtion nf^ A7i
^H
proparlicn of, chan^i cITccMil in, bjr
ITBpirDtion, and lUcElircUon the blood,
Brokm JcnM*. 9SI. T!^|
Broken wind, IS3,
S9.
Ilruni'liial ]iaaugn, diteaaw dT, 19V.
Air |iMii>gw. d'nemig of, WH; chronic
llniiidiilin. 133.
' di*«u£» fff. 1 3 L
Broneholocny, HO.
A]l*ralin*.'4Il.
Bruiin, i^ii of llt« foot, UM.
' Amaunnit. 'J61.
ButHUteo, 939.
Annarea. 3.1'!.
Animal html, proKiiotion oft €^-
CiFciiiTi. Btrueliire of, 68.
Anodviirs HI",
Caleuli in Ibc intealioc^ i69 [ in Iho
Anilidniintin. IIS.
kidneyv 191 I la ibe Idadder, 191.
AnllipuniDdin. 4SS.
Cankw, 331.
AppclitB, lou of, I4J: inardinale, and
Clipped bock. 98 tl.
dapmvd. I4T.
OqiuUi, 98H. ^^1
Argand lamp, momincndfid lur tuUra.
Carditia, HJ. ^^M
5.
Canilagt*, oiaificd, 879. S
Aia, Inoculallou of, aa « Int for g)au>
Cwtlnjc, or ilirowtng a bone down, ASO. ■
1 di-n. saj.
AMtiiif-vnu, 4S«.
Camtalion, OGS ; by cuusiif eluni, ^66 t 1
by ll|pilMii|, MK I liy lunuoii, ;Hi'J. 1
AulhuTs Veterinary, Cnglitb, *>. Ii. ;
CaHiaol, MS t parliil, iHJ. ^^M
I'lvncb, ». inl.
Caianli, US. ^^M
,
CoRlMllinn, 4X ^^M
llni-k (Inowi. itmln of, S7I.
Carebnini, 43. V
IlB|t«. en wiuliwn. 1 9K.
ChalT, tvnittfc on, 8. ^^fl
BsllinH ifun, WO,
Chapped herl^ 337. ^^^|
Hull), Mv Mirm'ii Mtdica, 4V9 1 Ih*
Cheat. -!.£ 1 ditcuH of, 115. ^^H
UnKue tomctiiDM injured by, IPS i
Chill. 901. ^^U
eaullon la be uwd In itl<iri]t, SOO.
C'hranie eouf[h, 131. ■
UarnhDc.tlJ.
Chyle, 75. ■
Itslhtnit. 136.
CbymiSeation, 79. H
Bnng. T.
Cirealaiiiin of the bleodi 50 i in Iha H
Bitling, 197 1 injuriM proiltind by, 107.
Khui. S7. H
Bladder, itrueture and funcliona of, 7H \
Clipping, 14. H
inHamtnatlnn of, IfiS-
Clyalen, :M7. 457. ^^1
KlnMtiiiti. 340; local, 341.
OnHn bone. ^101. ^^^|
flliitm. MT. 4nM.
CuOln joint, Mrain of, 973. ^^H
Blood, vimilation of^ 50 i il* nature and
Celdt, 195. ^^M
com[i<Hititiii, 5t.
Colic, flatulent, 164. ^^H
Bod} tiiuiirlcr, UUI.
Colon, tiructurenf, dfl. ^^^H
l(i>g.i.puviii. £83.
CoillracUil fwt, 334. ^^H
1luilr^]i|iii*iji, SH2.
Cudiali, ^^H
Ilnnn of tlm hml, ifi -, ot lb* ipiM
Cenit, 337. ^^M
and chni, y7 ; Qfllii-vitii-niiUni, 1(9;
\ CouObindi 'MV ^^^1
ii^urir* of, IMS.
\ Coug(V\'l«l dMMmBt\%'^. W
Botlt. 174.
\ Ci4V).to*ma.\T^ ■
556
INDEX.
Crawn-Kd>, 845.
Curb, 285.
CuUneoiia dueuei, 941.
Cutting, 334.
Cjntitii, IBS.
DenlUion, 374.
IMalwtin, 195.
IKaphontia, 467.
Diaphngin, 46 ; diaeuei of, 141.
DiirrtioBi, 163.
Digoition, 70,
Distemper, 196.
Dluretici, 468.
Doeking, 358.
Drenchei, 469.
Dresden, rnyal BUblet at, xiiii.
Drening, 471-
Droptf of the brain, 105; general, 931.
Duodenum, structure of, 67.
Dfwntery, 163.
Embrocationa, 473.
Enleritu, I GO.
Epidemic dieeaaea, 305.
Epilcps}', 105.
Epuootic diseasos, 305-
Euilnchian oiitiea, 64.
Examination of lioraea, 3R1-
£ierci)c, IS. 479i neeesaityand import-
ance of, 12; time, and manaer of
taking, 19,
EKOStOTIK, 276.
Eye, atructure, 348 i fiinctioni of, 356 ;
inHammation of, 958 ; vorm in the,
SG4,
False <|UBrter, 338.
Farcy, 233,
Feeding ! oata, 7 ; beans, 8 ; chaff, hay,
9 ; had method of feeding ^enenUly
adi^Ied, 8; proper limm for, lOi
danger of improper feeding, to.
Fetlock -joint, Btraina of, 27t,
Feier, 103.
Firing, 355, 48 T,
Fistula of the withen, 994.
Flatulent colic, 164-
Fleam, 34a
Flexor tendons, 268 ; atrain of, 37 1 .
Foetal circulation, 37.
FoMui. growth of the, MS.
Fomentaliotn, 4 82.
Food. 7 ; green food, 12.
Foot, structure of, 298; hoof, 300,
functions of, 305 : management of,
306 i bruises ot, 393 ; diieaaea of, 33T.
Foot founder, acute, 333 ; Tronic, 335.
Fracture, S9T.
Frenah ahoeing, 306.
Fret, 164.
Fumigating Ihs nosttils, 23\ ; Iftr.
Read'* BppaTmtui for, 131-
Fumi^tion oTatiililes, 229.
Gall-blidder, none in the hone, or tn,
69.
Gastric juice, 7t.
Qjutritia, 143.
Oeneration, male orguu at, 80 ; fbnale,
84, 85 ; functiona of, 85-
Glanden, aymptoms oF, S14; lots of
hotan by, 315; lav leapecting, in
France, 317 ; chronis, SIB ; o>mmu.
nicated by inocuUtion, 325; nature
of, 236; treatment of, 399.
Glottis, 48,
Grarciruig, 339.
Greaae, 23R.
Grinders to be filed, when unequally
worn, 196-
Gripcs, 164.
Gruel, 488,
Gruntcr, 136.
Guma, inflaromMioa aC, oceaaioDed by
tha bit, 196.
Gutta-serena, S64.
Hematuria, 187.
Halter, proper length ot, S.
Hallcr-caat, 326.
Haw, 25a
Hay, 9 ; quantity to be given, la
Heart, 49 ; diaeases of, 141.
Heels, cracks or ulcen in, 337.
Hepatirrhcta. 184.
Hepatitis, 179.
Hernia or ruptures, 370; serotal, 370 ;
opention* fin-, 371 ; rcntrat, 372.
Hide-bound, 943.
Highbkiwer, 136.
Hints to purchasers of horsvs, 379.
Hip-joint, strain of, 374.
Hobbles, old and new, 350.
Hock joint, struelure 0^280; iitjurics
of. 281.
Hoof, the, 30a
Hunting, injuries from, 39a
Hydrocephalus, 105.
Hydrothorai, 131.
Hypertrophy, 149.
Ileum, strneture of, 67 ; strangulation
of, 171.
Inflammation, on, 96; treatment o^
101,
Influeata.306.
Inlestinea, structure of, 66 ; functions
of, 76.
Inlubsutceplion, 179.
Jaundice, 181.
Jejunum, structure oC 67.
Joints, 35 ( jmnts opened, 399.
Journeys, direetians for, 15.
VL\Aim^iM>M«jira and function* at, 78 ;
^^^^^^^^H
"^
to
CNDKX' 537 B
Knn-jmnt, Mrun of, MX.
I'vui*, tltuuliinr of, 81. ^^^|
KumrN, 109.
IVrioMvotomy, •ill;. ^^^|
PcTiuimum, (truclurw of, m. V
Laoioioaa, 365.
Pcrilon'iiit, IflO. 1
. I^niinlllK, flS»,
PharmjicoiKEiii, U9P. H
I^mpu, IM.
Ilijirjiii, ur Ibod.bag, klructuro of, V'J. 1
Ijinfelji, 910.
niniiitic, 101, ^^^1
LoryngfXlu, Isa.
PhyMckiilg. »45. ^^H
Larjrni. 49.
PIpuni, Uw. 47, ^^H
I-eg. torr, im.
Plciiriiy. t'U-utilu. Via. ^^H
I,cltiwgj, 119.
PnvuiiiDnfi, or |H-ripnsuiiHnij', 1 1$. ^^H
■■ilhotomy, 199.
PtMKrn*, 143. 591. ^^1
I.iltet. S.
PulUccil. 995. ^^H
I.licr. (inictuiw or, es : dlMtilort of.
Pmilticr, 585. ^^H
ITRj inflammnlion of, ITS) chnnio
iiil1nn)nuiian«r, IHOi (Icn}«d iinic-
Puliw. nrittia of. 100, ^^^|
1 lute o(, Ifll.
Pumiced fbot, :!nS. ^^H
' Luclwil-Jsv. lia
PuTchatun cd' hann, adviaa to, 979. ^^H
l^oinii, ^Inin of, VJ-t^
PuigtBllirsiS 150, ^^H
I.UDp 47 1 influnmnlioo oT, 1 1 S i chro-
^^^1
nio diituuur. 119.
Quiddni, ID9. ^^1
Quillor, 3sn. ^^H
MMt.iU][^n, lot.
^
MnllcnilFH, -m.
Rabioi, or hydmplialiia. 107.
Atnngc. 2-13.
lUok, improved, 3 ; at* iniroixod ditio.
Manger, .i.
1.
Maihn, SIH.
llnUna.5aT.
Hat Hilt. M5.
Mauwation, TO; dofectlrc, mums of.
I9fi.
KcvtUDi, itructurv oC 89,
MoiBrln Mnlic*. 399.
Red mlic, l')0.
Mi-iliilU (ibl'iiiE»bi, 43.
Kc|iorl. I'mfcwor SewoU'i, ivi.
Mpiliillo ipiiialu, 14,
Krt|iir,ilivii, and iU vlTivtv 57.
McErims 10.5.
Mflaiiiiiili.. 94$.
Rmiotatiiva. 5ST.
Rhcumaliim, iOl ; lUtio, chranic, WH.
Million itnmiv, )(!9.
Rlng-lKiiif. 378.
Muiilh, diwiHM of, 195; >tTiinurc Of,
Koarin^, l^ti.
ei.
RowvK 349,
HuNuUr njiMii, 37.
RowelUng. 598,
Ituplurei, 370: of lliv iLciinacli and
1 Nnnow hwU. 336.
IiuwoK ISA.
! NbtcI iptllm 903.
S'uviculitr jciini, lamanM* of. SSR.
fiaddlvialk sn:i. ^^H
Nl■i>l>^iu<^ IBd.
Salkndi-n, ^^H
Nitres ^3.
Sand-ctack, Mn. ^^H
Nerve o|)c>alLan, 358.
Scarlalino, 198. ^^1
Nickliiff. sai.
Niiiirinr" *y«ein v( luiiiiiipring huntfn>
Scrulum, 81. ^^^|
Hctiint, 949. ■
^ 11.
Shoe, Fi«mI>, 30Ti watfd, 313; uni- ■
^B Nmirilt.'ia.
laimUSISi tat, 915 1 Mr. B. Clark't, ■
■
319. ■
^ lints ^■
Shiwinf, SOfl : hijuitoa from, 318. H
lihouldtT blado and bona, 30 ; •train of, 1
(£io|ihagim •iTuclute ol^ <tS ) nlMtttie-
liun in, 300.
WS. ^^1
nCuiiliagatoinjr. 901 .
SinoMi^ 11. ^^H
SitnuU, 993. ^^H
(>)irt*lli»ii. mo, 350.
Oplillmliiiin. oimiilr, -iSS ; Hjivcillr, 3511.
Sk*lo(on.9a ■
Oniflcil fiirlil*jf», 9^9.
Skin, HnlMur* of, IMO; dlMMM tt, S
OitT.rcnching. 395.
^^1
Sole, bruiw of, 39?. ^^H
■■iilav. IIM : ufthe atiimirh, Ml>.
Soramoutli, IM. ^^^|
I'liirrvnu. Ktructiirv iif. liS.
Sun l^^>at, 195. ^^H
Pnnplcgii. lOH.
Soundneta, SW. n^^H
Pwitefn, S3, 30J.
Spa^Vn Vxnw, 5*1 v \«>fr«(avm.*>ft*- ■
1 fmU-llih (/idiKHtlon of, HIS,
St>«iDMl'w t<JlA,ft\. ^^H
558
INDEX.
Spiiul muTOw, 44 ) diwMa of, lOB.
Spinal norrei, 44.
Spleen, ■truDlura at, G9-
^nU, ST6.
at. Bel, M., hli eipcriioent* reltrtlTB to
glamdcn, 9S4.
St^le, conHnielioa and econom; of^l.
SMggen, ICM.
Stern UTQ, 46.
Slifieji^t, (tnia of, S75.
fltiiniilaDti^jSS.
StanMch, ilruoture of, 64 ; ftinotion* of,
71 ; p<*l*;or, 149.
Stomaeb lUggen, 149.
Stomuh tad akin, ajn^Hajr between,
73 ; inflamnutioa at, 113.
Stomuhie*, 536.
StoiN in tha U^der, 191 i in t4.u
bowela, 169.
Btoppiag, 537.
Strains, general ofaierTa^oni on, 965
■boulder, S66 ; back aiDewa, 371
(fetliKk joint, 271 ; coffin Joint, 873
bip Joint, &c, 974 ; KiSs joint, STS
bock Joint, 968 1 knee Joint, !B1.
Strangle*, IS9.
Strangulation of the amall Intotinet,
171 ; the rectura, 171 ; the ileum and
colon, 1 7 1 ■
Siring-ball, 114.
Structure of the bona, general view of,
17.
Summer, trcstmeot of borm in, 11.
Suppuration, 98.
Surfeit, £41.
Srnniea distemper, 151.
Swelled lega, ^35
Teeth, atructure of^ 374 ; mode of judg-
ing age by, 377.
Tendona of the leg, deteriptiou oT, S68 ;
■tnin of, 271.
Teste*, or testictea, 80.
Tetanus, or locked-jair, 1!0.
Thick wind, 135,
Thorough- pin, 284,
Throat, structure of, 63 ; sore, 1 25,
Tbruih, 330.
Tongue, the, 62 ; lacerated, 198.
ToniCB, 544.
Trachea, 48.
TrachItia,JS3.
Training, 19,
Tmdi, 399.
Tri>mua,lll.
Trumpeter, 136.
Tumoura, eneyUed, 345.
Udder, 85.
UlceratioQ, 98.
Ulcen in the mouth, 197.
Unaoundncaa, eauaea of, 391.
Urinary organa. (tructnre of^7S; dia-
easei of, lOS.
Ur'u^ the, 79) retention of, 189;
bloody. 187.
Vapour inhaler, 1 37.
VaadeffaTeUB,81, 365.
Vein, inflamed, 344.
VeolilatiDD of itahlci, 40T.
Vertigo, 105.
Veaicula aeminalia, 81.
Veterinary schoola ; London, riii ; Han-
over, xix ; Ljona. an; Alfart, iti ;
Vienna, ivii ; Berlin, i*iii.
Viscera of the abdomen, 64.
Vision, 256.
Vivea, isa
VcHniting, horae incapable of, 66.
Wall eye, 253,
Warbles, 293.
Warranty, 389.
Warts, 245.
Water, 11.
Weed, 937.
W«ght] and meaaurea, 397.
Wens, S45.
Whistler, 136.
Wind galls, 273.
Windpipe, 47 ; inflammatioa of, 188.
Withers, fistulouh 294.
Wolf's tooth, what, 198.
Worms, 174.
WouDik, 985 ; punctured, 321 i Uee-
raled,2S7 ; of the salivary duota, 287 ;
of the foot, 316.
Hie Hateria Medica being arranged
alphabetically, no Indai ibr it will be
required.
THE END.
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