ACUTE GASTRIC INDIGESTION IN SWINE. 185 



ACUTE GASTRIC INDIGESTION IN SWINE. 



The causes comprise putrid food, swill, spoilt turnips, potatoes, 

 apples, succulent vegetables, frozen food, and the admixture of caustic 

 alkaline powders (used in washing table dishes) with the swill. Indi- 

 gestible matters — hoof, horn, hair, bristles, tree bark, etc. — when not re- 

 jected by vomiting, cause gastritis and indigestion. Lastly, medicinal 

 substances and poisons, paint and lead, sometimes produce the disease. 



Among the symptoms may be mentioned dulness, arching of the 

 back, standing with the feet brought together, erection of the bristles, 

 hiding under the litter, grunting, uneasiness, shifting from place to 

 place, tenseness of the abdominal wall, borborygmus ; these may be 

 followed by diarrhoea and recovery. Speedier relief is aftbrded by 

 copious vomiting of irritant matters. 



The treatment should commence with the free administration of 

 emetics. To combat alkaline poisoning vinegar may be given, followed 

 by a laxative. Prophylaxis calls for greater care in feeding. 



