•J 10 THE VETERINARY SCIENCE 



these glands not be destroyed by separation before the cuts 

 heal there is a continual secretion of oil which in a short time 

 gives the bag an enlarged, soft appearance not unlike that of 

 a colt which had not been operated upon. Leaving the 

 spermatic cord longer than it should be will produce the same 

 effect. 



Symptoms.— These are easily detected, especially in warm 

 weather when the elastic fibres of the scrotum are relaxed. 

 In cold weather the enlargement is not so easily detected, 

 because of the elastic fibres of the scrotum being contracted. 

 Purchasers of geldings during the winter months will require 

 to look into this matter very carefully. 



Treatment. — It is necessary to impress upon the operator 

 the importance of satisfying himself that there is no rupture 

 before attempting to operate. Examine the scrotum and the 

 inguinal rings above it to see that it is not a case of rapture. 

 Prepare the colt by giving light diet for a day or two. Cast 

 and secure as in ordinary cases of castration. Cleanse hands 

 and instruments thoroughly. Wash the scrotum thoroughly 

 with warm water and castile soap. Make a longitudinal 

 incision in the scrotum parallel to the median raphe about 

 three-quarters of an inch from it. A pouchful of fluid will 

 be found inside the scrotum. Disect this out. This can 

 generally be broken down with the fingers and should be 

 done in this way when possible, as the less the knife is used 

 the better. When this pouch has been loosened by disecting 

 around it place the chain of the ecraseur over it, taking in all 

 the spare cord possible, tighten the chain and cut it off in the 

 same manner as in an ordinary case of castration. Oil the 

 parts, before freeing the colt, with carbolized oil (five drops 

 of carbolic acid to an ounce of sweet oil.) Operate on the 

 other side similarly if necessary. For after treatment follow 

 the same course as outlined for castration. 



VI. — Castrating Originals or Rigs. 



An original, ridgling or rig is a male the testicles of 

 which do not descend into the scrotum, but remain in the 

 abdominal or belly cavity. The reason for this remains in 

 doubt. It is advisable to leave cases of this kind to the 

 expert, who pays especial attention to it, as the operation is 

 extremely difficult to perform. If the testicles of a yearling 

 have not yet descended into the scrotum it is advisable to 



