Diseases. 143 



add to the drinking-water instead twenty or thirty drops of 

 antimonial wine. Should this fail to relieve it there is no 

 hope of its recovery. Mortification sets in, the body 

 a dark, livid appearance, and death speedily follows. 



INFLAMMATION OP THE BOWELS. See under "Enteritis." 

 INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. See under " Hepatitis." 

 INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. See under "Pneumonia." 



INTERNAL PARASITES. These parasites are generated in the 

 locality of the heart and liver, and I have no doubt thousands 

 of birds perish from this cause alone, but as to its origin^ 

 that at present is problematical, and there is a wide field open 

 for medical and scientific men to search after truth in that 

 direction. I am of opinion that the cause arises from the use 

 of an improper diet, and too much stimulating heat produced 

 in feeding for colour. Another cause may be the want of a 

 constant supply of grit, or from giving decayed seed or 

 other unwholesome food. I know that many fanciers think 

 it is produced by using some kinds of green food, and more 

 particularly watercress. I do not care for the latter, as it 

 is frequently grown in stagnant and filthy water, and is 

 literally swarming with animal life, and requires strong treat- 

 ment before being available for use. Birds affected with these 

 pests often die quite suddenly, and to an unobservant fancier 

 without showing any premonitary symptoms of disease. These 

 insects, which are exceedingly minute, will be found on the 

 liver and viscera of birds which fall victims to this disorder. 

 The best remedies are probably a liberal and nutritious diet 

 and abundance of fresh air, a large flight cage for exercise, 

 and pure water. I think these parasites are generally only 

 present in birds that are emaciated, or of weak and delicate 

 constitutions, brought on by a bad moult or improper feeding. 



J. 



JOINTS, SWOLLEN. See under "Swollen Joints." 



