II Jan., 1909.] 



Diseases of Farm Animals. 



53 



The Symptoms are those of irritant poisoning previously described, 

 and sometimes narcotism with staggering gait and ultimate paralysis. 

 Oftentimes there is exorciation or f>eeling of the skin of the lips and the 

 mucous membrane of the mnuth, and the smell of the poison can be 

 detected in the breath. 



The best antidote is oil of turpentine given in a large dose (from two 

 to four ounces) in a pint of olive oil. Epsom salts should also be given. 

 In addition to acting as a purgative it combines wdth carbolic acid and 

 forms phenylsulphuric acid which is devoid of poisonous properties. De- 

 mulcents such as previously recommended in irritant poisonings are also 

 advantageous. 



Cyanide Poisoning. 



Since the introduction in recent \ears of the cyanide method of gold 

 separation complaints have been received from various districts regarding 

 the poisoning of stock through drinking the effluent water from the 

 cyanide vats. That stock has been so poisoned however cannot be re- 

 garded as certain ; for, so far as the author knows, the suspicion has 

 never been scientifically investigated ,; no authentic description of svmptoms 

 and post mortem appearances have been recorded ; and the possibilitv of 

 the fatalities reported having been due to other cau.ses has not been 

 eliminated. 



An appropriate antidote for cyanide poisoning would be the adminis- 

 tration of carbonate of ammonia in doses of from one to two ounces 

 dissolved and well diluted with w^arm water. Ammonia, vapour from 

 strong liquid ammonia may also be given as an inhalation. The hypo- 

 dermic injection of tw'o dram doses of sulphuric ether is a reliable heart 

 stimulant such as is required in these cases. 



Prussic acid jx>isoning will be more properly described when plant 

 poisons are being dealt with. 



Brine Poisoning. 



Pigs are sometimes poisoned by the drinking of brine or the eating 

 of over-salted meat or salted fish refuse. The poisoning is associated 

 with nervous excitation and spasm ; later on partial paralysis, stupefaction 

 and unconsciousness supervene. There is alwavs more or less straining 

 and pregnant sows may abort. Red discolorations of the skin in pmtches 

 are often presented and are evidences of intestinal irritation or inflamma- 

 tion. Great thirst is a constant symptom. 



Treatment. — Allow frequent drinks of gruels, boiled starch or gunv 

 water. The spasms m:;v be counteracterl by chloral hvdrate. 



(T n he confhmcd .) 



