290 THE HORSE 



becomes thicker as the disease advances. Cough, too, is 

 generally present. But soon there is a disinclination to 

 bend the neck and head, and the latter is held in a strained 

 position. The glands under the throat begin to swell 

 and form abscesses, and no further doubt can exist as to 

 the character of the ailment. The general treatment 

 consists of good nursing, tempting the horse to eat mashed 

 carrots, boiled oats, and damped hay, and keeping it 

 comfortably warm with clothing and bandages. In the 

 drinking water may be dissolved — 



Nitre ^ oz. 



while — 



Belladonna 30 drops 



may be given daily with good results. 



If constipation occurs, 4 oz. of linseed oil may be mixed 

 with the food, or ^ lb. of treacle. 



Poultices should be applied to the swelling under the jaw, 

 to bring it to a head as soon as possible, and as soon as the 

 abscess points it should be opened with a lancet, for if left 

 to burst the sides of the wound will be irregular, and 

 take longer to heal. A little tow should be introduced into 

 the opening to prevent it closing up, so that the matter can 

 drain freely away, and should be renewed at least once 

 a day. As the disease is very contagious among young 

 horses, the invalid should be isolated as much as possible, 

 and care taken to prevent the spread of the disease. Occa- 

 sionally the abscesses form in other parts of the body, when 

 the disease is termed irregular strangles, and becomes much 

 more serious. But in ordinary cases as soon as the abscess 

 is punctured or bursts, and the pus is discharged, the patient 

 commences to improve and soon recovers. 



Indigestion. 



In this disease the digestion is at fault in consequence of 

 the stomach, liver, or bowels being deranged. The skin 

 adheres tightly to the flesh, in the condition known as hide- 



