DISEASES OF SWINE TREATMENT 249 



Many hogs have been cured of aphthous fever by a solution of about one 

 tablespoonful of salicylic acid to a quart of water freely applied to the dis- 

 eased mouth and feet, also to the runs and houses. 



Apoplexy. 



This is an ailment that occurs in fat hogs. It is caused by an over- 

 supply of blood and fat. 



Symptoms. The hog first acts stupid and restless; the eyes are prom- 

 inent and blood-shot; suddenly the hog may drop as though hit with a sledge- 

 hammer and the limbs become straightened and stiff; he may appear dead 

 but for his heavy breathing. 



Treatment. If the attack occurs in hot weather put the hog in a cool 

 place and supply cold packs or ice to the head. Keep the bowels loose by 

 giving epsom salts in 2 or 3-ounce doses. Feed lightly. Proper care in feed- 

 ing, especially if for fattening, will prevent too high a blood pressure. A 

 veterinarian can bleed successfully and profitably if the hog is ,a good one. 



Apoplectic Anthrax. 



This is the most acute form of Anthrax. It seldom occurs in hogs and 

 when it does occur it generally terminates so quickly that nothing can be 

 done for the patient. The raiser usually comes just in time to see the hog 

 fall down and die, or to find him dead before he even knew the animal was 

 sick. This disease is caused by contagion ; filthy quarters and grounds ; poor 

 feeding ; and over exposure to heat and cold. 



Symptoms. Pain; swaggering unsteady gait; temperature changing 

 from feverish heat to cold chills alternately and in rapid succession; very 

 red mucous membrane : vomiting a discolored or bloody fluid ; and convul- 

 sions. In some cases a carbuncle may make its appearance shortly before 

 death. 



Treatment. We can suggest no cure for this disease. About all that 

 can be done is to isolate the diseased hog if possible as a protection to the 

 rest of the herd. The body should be burned or buried under a few inches of 

 quick lime and the premises thoroughly disinfected. Some farmers write 

 they have had success with this ailment by bleeding the hog. 



Blind Staggers. 



Over-feeding; filthy surroundings; and over-exposure in changeable 

 weather cause congestion of bowels and blood rushes to the brain too swiftly. 



Symptoms. Hog acting stupid ; running into objects ; running in a cir- 

 cle ; falling over and straightening out legs ; frothing at the mouth ; and rapid 

 laborious breathing. 



Treatment. Put the hog in a dry, clean pen. Make it as comfortable 

 as possible. Feed lightly. Many farmers draw a little blood which relieves 



