390 DISEASES OP CATTLE, 'SHEEP, GOATS, ETC. 



surface, destroying it. It is likely to perforate the organ, and coming 

 in contact with the abdominal lining or other organ of digestion soon 

 sets up a condition that is beyond repair. In a less concentrated form, 

 when the acid is not sufficiently strong to be corrosive, it exerts an 

 irritant effect. In this form it may not do much harm unless taken 

 in considerable quantity. When it is, the mucous membrane of the 

 stomach and intestines becomes inflamed; pain and diarrhea are 

 likely to result. 



Any of the alkalies may be used as an antidote. Most conven- 

 ient of these are chalk, baking soda, marble dust, magnesia, lime, 

 soap, or plaster from a wall. Mucilaginous drinks should be given 

 in large quantities. 



Oxalic acid in particular is corrosive in its action when taken in 

 concentrated solution, losing its corrosive effect and becoming irri- 

 tant when more dilute. It also exerts a specific effect on the heart, 

 frequently causing death from syncope. Taken in the form either 

 of the crystals or solution, it is likely to cause death in a very short 

 time. Failure of heart action and attendant small pulse, weakness, 

 staggering, and convulsions are the more noticeable symptoms. Lime- 

 water or lime or plaster should be given promptly. Acetic acid is 

 irritant to the gastro-intestinal tract, and may cause sudden paralysis 

 of the heart. It should be counteracted by the use of alkalies, as ad* 

 vised above, by protectives to the digestive tract, and by stimulants. 



POISONING BY ALKALIES. 



The carbonates of potash and soda and the alkalies themselves 

 in concentrated form cause symptoms of intestinal irritation similar 

 to those produced by mineral acids. Ammonia, caustic soda, and 

 caustic potash (lye) are those to which animals are most exposed. 

 The degree of their caustic irritant effects depends on their degree of 

 concentration. When they reach the stomach the symptoms are 

 nearly as well marked as in the case of the acids. The irritation is 

 even more noticeable, and purgation is likely to be a more promin- 

 ent symptom. If death is not caused soon, the irritation of the gastro- 

 intestinal tract and malnutrition will last for a long time. Treat- 

 ment consists in neutralizing the alkali by an acid, such as dilute 

 sulphuric acid (1 per cent) or strong vinegar. The administration 

 of such an antidote and its action must be carefully w r atched during 

 administration. In the chemical change which takes place when the 

 acid and alkali are combined, carbonic-acid gas is liberated, which 

 may be to an extent sufficient to cause considerable distention of the 

 abdomen, even to asphyxia from pressure forward on the diaphragm. 

 Should this danger present itself, it may be averted by opening the 

 left flank, permitting the gas to escape. (See Acute Tympanites, or 

 Bloating.) 



Flaxseed or slippery-elm decoction must be given to soothe the 

 inflamed mucous surface. Opium may be used to allay pain. 



COAL-OIL POISONING. 



Coal oil is sometimes administered empirically as a treatment for 

 intestinal parasites. If given in large doses it produces poisonous ef- 

 fects, which are likely to be manifest some time after the administra- 



