The Foal. 



659 



however, have been proved. First, that the causes of scours are many 

 and varied; second, that their potency is increased by unclean surround- 

 ings, especially unwholesome stables. Apparent causes are the non- 

 removal of the fecal matter, and anything that very materially affects 

 the health or condition of the mare, such as becoming fretful when 

 kept away from the colt for a time soon after parturition. The mare 

 becomes feverish, the quality of her milk materially altered, and the 

 foal coming to her hungry, gorges itself with this changed milk which 

 induces indigestion and diarrhea. Very rich foods may stimulate the 

 flow to such an extent that if the foal is permitted to take it all, digestive 

 disorders and diarrhea will result. The same often happens in early 

 spring when the mare is pasturing on a rank growth of succulent grass. 



Fig. 14. — "Princess " and four of her foals. This shows what one tnare can do. 



Kansas Agricultural College 



Confinement in close buildings is objectionable to mare and foal alike. 

 In both it induces a weakened condition and leaves the system an easy 

 prey to disease. A cold damp bed, exposure to cold rain storms and 

 the like are to be avoided. A passing shower may do no harm even if 

 cold, but a prolonged exposure to rain with a low temperature is hard 

 on a new-born foal and often leads to disorders of the digestive organs 

 and fatal diarrhea. 



The best treatment is to avoid conditions likely to cause such dis- 

 orders. If the dam is properly fed and exercised, there is very little 

 danger. One should attend the foal at the first appearance of digestive 

 disorders and remove the cause; even then it may be too late. If it is 

 due to an over-supply of rich milk, the dam should be milked in part 

 by hand. In treating, one must keep in mind the nature of the trouble, 



