DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY PASSAGES 185 



some liquid discharge from the nostrils. This may be ac- 

 companied with coughing. As the cold progresses the symp- 

 toms become more aggravated. Breathing becomes more dif- 

 ficult and rapid. The catarrhal secretions may partially or 

 completely block the nasal passage. 



ASTHMA OF CANARIES 



This is a chronic affection of canary birds. In the breath- 

 ing processes there is a labored expiration. In severe cases 

 a contraction of abdominal muscles is evident in forcing air 

 from the lungs. Asthma is more evident at night, and often 

 birds apparently free from it during the day will wheeze 

 when at rest. 



False asthma may be caused by indigestion and overeat- 

 ing. Fanciers consider asthma as hereditary and do not 

 recommend such birds for breeding. There is little that can 

 be done for this condition except to give a light diet. 



Treatment. — Place in the drinking cup one ounce of water 

 to which has been added 20 drops of syrup of tolu, 10 drops 

 sweet spirits of niter, and 10 drops of glycerin. If the case 

 is severe add 10 drops of whiskey or brandy. Pneumonia is 

 quite often fatal. The birds become very weak and usually 

 die in from two to seven days. 



