410 IOWA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE 
common one, and frequently results from the violent manner in which 
a horse throws himself about when attacked by spasmodic colic. The 
symptoms are the same as these of intussusception and obstructions of 
the bowels; the same directions as to treatment are therefore to be ob- 
served. 
Paralysis of the Intestine. — This occurs in old, debilitated animals that 
have been fed on coarse innutritions fodder. This produces a condition 
of dilatation so pronounced as to make it impossible for the intestine to 
advance its contents, and so obstruction results. The symptoms are as 
in other forms of obstruction colic. The history of the case is of much 
service in diagnosing the trouble. The treatment consists in the ad- 
ministration of laxatives. One may give 1 quart of raw linseed oil and 
follow it the next day with 1 pound of Glauber's salts dissolved in a 
quart of vvarm water. Strychnia may be given in doses of 1 grain two 
or three times daily. If the stagnant mass of feces is in the rectum, it 
must be removed with the hand. 
Abnormal Growths, such as tumors or fibrous tissue, producing con- 
traction or stricture may be causes of obstruction. The colic caused by 
these conditions is chronic. The attacks occur at gradually shortening 
intervals and become progressively more severe. Relief is afforded by 
the use of purgatives that render the feces soft and thin and thus enable 
them to pass the obstruction. But in time the contracted place is likely 
to close so far that passage is impossible and the horse will die. 
(3) Flatulent Colic (Tympanitic colic, wind colic, or bloat). — Among 
the most frequent causes of this form of colic are to be mentioned sudden 
changes of food, too long fasting, food then given while the animal is 
exhausted, new hay or grain, large quantities of green food, food that has 
lain in the manger for some time and become sour, indigestible food, 
irregular teeth, crib-biting, and, in fact, anything that produces indiges- 
tion may produce flatulent colic. 
The symptoms of wand colic are not so suddenly developed nor so 
severe as those of cramp colic. At first the horse is noticed to be dull, 
paws slightly, and may or may not lie down. The pains from the start 
are continuous. The belly enlarges, and by striking it in front of the 
haunches a drumlike sound results. If not soon relieved the above symp- 
toms are aggravated, and in addition there are noticed different breathing, 
bloodshot eyes, and red mucous membranes, loud tumultuous heart beat, 
profuse perspiration, trembling of front legs, sighing respiration, stag- 
gering from side to side, and finally, plunging forward dead. The diag- 
nostic symptom of flatulent colic is the distention of the bowels with 
gas, detected by the bloated appearance and resonance on percussion. 
The treatment for wind colic differs very materially from that of 
cramp colic. Absorbents are of some service, and charcoal may be given 
in any quantity. Relaxants and antispasmodics are also beneficial in this 
form of colic. Chloral hydrate not only possesses these qualities but it 
also is an antiferment and a pain reliever. It is then particularly well 
adapted to the treatment of wind colic, and should be given in the same- 
sized doses and in the manner directed for spasmodic colic. Diluted 
alcohol or whisky may be given, or aromatic spi^'its of ammonia in 1 
ounce doses at short intervals. 
