INFLAMMATION OF THE MOUTH. 597 



some peculiarity of location and diet, are yet, probably more 

 frequently than we have been disposed to believe, to be attri- 

 buted to parasitic invasion. 



The existence of the vegetable fungus the Odium albicans 

 has long been recognised as connected with some forms of 

 stomatitis ; but it is only recently, however previously sus- 

 pected, that the presence of an acarus has been demonstrated 

 m association with the pustules of equine stomatitis. (Mr. 

 Burke, Veterinary Journal, July, 1882.) 



Treatment. — The management of all cases of stomatitis 

 resolves itself into — 



1. Attention to and strict enforcement of correct hygiene. 

 The animals ought to be removed from foul and unwholesome 

 stables, allowed sufficiency of exercise, with fresh air ; the food- 

 supply of good quality, and in keeping with the requirements 

 of the system. 



2. A consideration of the general state of the animal's health. 

 Here we may, if the indications lead us, require to produce a 

 more pronounced state of tonic sufficiency by the exhibition of 

 medicines. If the use of general tonics is only called for in 

 exceptional cases, it will be found that in the greater number 

 some attention to the state of the digestive system is 

 called for. In the very young the use of some oleaginous 

 laxative, followed by mild vegetable tonics, will do much to 

 confer healthy tone on the entire digestive tract. In some a 

 longer continuance of salines or antacids will be of advantage. 



3. Local applications. These are in all instances of benefit. 

 They may be of the mildest form, as good linseed-tea, or a 

 solution of bicarbonate or chlorate of potash ; or they may be 

 actively astringent, as a saturated solution of tannic acid or 

 alum. The greater number of the commonly observed forms 

 rarely need aught more active than a solution of chlorate of 

 potash or sulphate of soda employed twice or thrice daily. 

 Where there is much fcetor, a solution of ten grains of per- 

 manganate of potash to the ounce of water, or a little carbolic 

 glycerine added to the solution of chlorate of potash, wiU do . 

 well. 



When the individual sores or ulcerous spots do not appear to 

 heal well, benefit will result from touching these every alternate 

 day with a ten grains to the ounce solution of nitrate of silver. 



