202 



produces a weak family ; and weakness of body, whether of 

 tuberculosis origin or not, predisposes the oifspring to tu- 

 berculosis. 



(2). The modern method of breeding the cow as a milk- 

 producing machine is developing a constitutional weakness 

 in many individuals of the milk-producing families. Fur- 

 thermore, experience has proven that a cow which is kept 

 in a small stall without exercise will give more milk with a 

 given quantity of food, than one which is given plenty of ex- 

 ercise in a lot or field, with the same quantity of food. Of 

 course, such close confinement reduces the vigor of the cow 

 and predisposes her to tuberculosis. This doctrine of close, 

 warm, continual confinement is occasionally preached and 

 practiced by dairymen and sometimes it is taught by instruc- 

 tors in agricultural colleges. Dairy cows as well as 

 beef cattle should have exercise in open air. Exercise and 

 fresh air will not prevent all cases of tuberculosis, but they 

 certainly help to prevent the contraction or spreading of 

 tuberculosis. 



(3). Ventilation and Light — Poorly ventilated and dark 

 stalls are, in many respects, worse than continual out-door 

 exposure. Light is one of nature's best disinfectants, and 

 moving air carries away foul gases and brings fresh, pure 

 air. The drainage of stalls should be so arranged that they 

 may be kept dry and clean. 



(4). Climate, in a degree, influences the propagation and 

 development of tuberculosis. A moist and variable climate 

 favors the development and transmission of tuberculosis. 

 Dry and rarified air with a uniform temperature tends to 

 decrease its ravages. 



(5). Food and Feeding — Too heavy or forced feeding may 

 weaken the animal as well as a deficiency in the quantity of 

 food. The proper quantity and the best quality of food 

 should be given. Food should not only be nutritious and 

 digestible, but should also be given at regular intervals in 

 proper quantities. Too much food overtaxes the digestive 



