134 MANUAL OF MODERN FARRIERY. 



it is sure to be followed by lameness. If heat and tender- 

 ness of the part are perceived, and the horse is lame, it is 

 certain that it has its seat in this spot. 



The cause of curb, like other injuries of the hock-joint, 

 proceeds from a sudden check, or over-exertion, and inducing 

 extension of the ligaments, which bind down the tendons ; 

 or it may proceed from an injury sustained by the sheaths 

 of the tendons. This brings on inflammation, and frequently 

 lameness ensues. It is most common to young horses, 

 especiall}^. those which are cow- hocked ; that is-, with the 

 structure of the hock and leg being like that of a cow, the 

 hocks having an inward inclination, and the legs exhibiting 

 a considerable outward angle. This formation of the limbs, 

 it will be at once perceived, has the effect of inducing a 

 continual stretch on the annular ligament, and thereby 

 confining the action of the tendons. 



When curb first appears it is generally accompanied by 

 swelling and lameness : it is seldom, however, that the 

 swelling is great, exhibiting generally a gradual curve, so 

 little to be noticed that, when viewed from behind, it 

 cannot be observed. 



Remedies. — The first application should be cold evapo- 

 rating lotions, frequently used. These to consist of 



Spirit of wine . . 2 ounces. 



Vinegar .... 2 ounces. 

 Water .... 2 ounces. 



This to be often applied until the inflammation has subsided. 

 Should the heat and lameness continue, bleeding from the 

 subcutaneous vein must be had recourse to, the situation 

 and course of which is exhibited at h, plate 7, fig. 2. After 

 which purgatives must be administered. The following 

 should be made up in the form of a ball, and given : — 



