X 



PARALYSIS. 149 



well as in the posterior extremities. When the posterior ex- 

 tremities only are paralyzed, the practitioner may know that 

 the injury is situated pretty well back. If injury to the 

 spinal cord occurs anterior to where the phrenic nerve is 

 given off, death occurs instantaneously. Partial loss of 

 power is oftenest seen in stallions, the symptoms being a 

 slightly staggering gait, and a sort of plucking up of the 

 legs when backed. This form of paralysis may be treated 

 with success by nerve sedatives, proper diet, etc. ; changing 

 after a while to nerve stimulants. Support the animal in 

 slings, unless he throws his whole weight in the slings, in 

 which case do not sling, as the lungs and bowels cannot act. 

 The same treatment is applicable to paraplegia where it is 

 curable. 



Paralysis of the Lips. — This form of paralysis is by no 

 means rare in the horse, and is usually referable to some 

 injury to the brain, the origin of the nerve going to the lips. 

 On the American continent it is due to cold oftener than 

 anything else. Irritation of the nerve by an ill-fitting 

 halter wdll also produce it. 



Symptoms. — Hanging of the lip, which may also be 

 slightly drawn to one side. The animal has great difficulty 

 in prehension, and in some cases mastication seems difficult. 

 On taking a drink, the animal thrusts his muzzle deeply 

 into the pail. 



Treatment. — If due to a badly-fitting halter, remove the 

 cause, bathe the lip with warm water, dry thoroughly, and 

 rub with an anodyne liniment. Give a laxative and soft 

 food. In certain cases stimulate the parts with a mild 

 blister. If due to brain trouble, the cure will be difficult, and 

 the animal will exhibit the usual symptoms of brain affection. 



Paralysis of the Coccygeal Muscles. — Symptoms are those 

 of paralysis, easily recognised. Slightly elevate the tail with 

 a crupper, and use nerve-stimulants, etc. 



