370 THE PRACTICE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE. 



Symptoms. — An enlargement is noticed over the region of 

 the gland, extending from the base of the ear to the angle 

 of the jaw; the enlargement is found on examination to 

 be hard and hot, and j^ressure uj)on it causes the animal 

 to evince pain ; mastication may be interfered with to a 

 very slight extent. In due course of time suppuration 

 generally takes place, when the gland is found to be soft 

 and fluctuating; the hair is easily rubbed off or pulled 

 away with the fingers, the integument beneath presents a 

 smooth and shining aj^pearance, and signs of pointing are 

 very aj^parent. In other cases suppuration does not occur, 

 but an exudate is thrown out, and the gland becomes 

 indurated. The exudate in course of time may, or may 

 not, be removed by absorption, induced or assisted by the 

 proper use of medicinal agents. Parotitis is of more 

 frequent occurrence among young than old animals. 



Treatment. — The treatment consists of the employment 

 both of local and constitutional remedies. Fomentations 

 persevered in are indispensable in the treatment of parotitis. 

 Poultices are also highly useful ; and a judicious use of 

 liniments, and perhaps a vesicant, will be necessary if the 

 swelling cannot be dispersed, and suppuration takes place. 

 At the proper time the parts must be opened, and the 

 pus allowed to escape. Such a procedure is far preferable 

 to allowing the abscess to burst of its own accord. The 

 lancet being plunged in, the pus will sometimes spurt out 

 several feet. If the animal be restless, a twitch should be 

 placed on his lip to keep him quiet. After opening the 

 abscess, it should be nicely cleansed with tepid water, and a 

 poultice applied ; and febrifuge medicine and tonics given, 

 and good food of a laxative character should be allowed. 

 If induration occurs, benefit will result from using the ungt. 

 iodi. CO., to be well rubbed in as often as may be deemed 

 necessary. A strong vesicant often acts very efficaciously. 



