MODERN FARRIER. 313 



11. Catarrh, or Cold. 



it 



Symptoms. — There are generally reckoned two 

 species of catarrh ; simple cold, and epidemic ca- 

 tarrh, or influenxa. The latter sometimes attacks a 

 whole yard of oxen or cows in one night. On the 

 fii-st attack, the animal appeare dull and languid ; 

 the eyes are watery and sometime partially closed ; 

 the appetite is diminished ; and, most commonly, it 

 is attended with cough. Swellings under or below 

 the ears, difficulty in swallowing, and a discharge 

 from the nostrils, are not unusual symptoms of the 

 complaint. When catarrh prevails to this degree, 

 it is generally named influenza, or clisiemj)er, and 

 has been thought contagious; but this opinion has 

 not been proved to be true. 



Colds are very common, particularly in wet or 

 cold weather ; and, though they are often thought 

 of too little importance to require particular atten- 

 tion, yet by neglecting them, and suffering the ani- 

 mal to continue exposed to the weather, the most 

 serious consequences may ensue. From such neg- 

 lect, we often find that the animal gradually declines 

 in flesh and strength, becomes hidebound, and has a 

 rough, staring coat ; at length tubercles form in the 

 lungs, the mesenteric glands become enlarged, ob- 

 structing the passage by which nutriment is con- 

 veyed to the blood : this is succeeded by atrophy, 

 consumption, and death. 



Causes. — The causes of colds are generally under- 

 stood, and should not be despised. 



Cure. — It is highly important to attend to this 

 disorder as soon as it is discovered ; and it may be 

 safely asserted, that more good may be done by 

 nursing, placing the animal in a warm situation, 

 giving him warm nourishing fluids, such as gruel. 

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