CIRRHOSIS. 429 



trouble is due to obstruction, the mixture will become a 

 scarlet or purple-red at the line of contact ; but if a brown 

 colour be presented at the line of contact, proof conclusive 

 is obtained that the trouble is due to suppression. This 

 test is thoroughly reliable. 



Treatment. — If the test reveals nothing more than func- 

 tional inactivity of the liver, an aloetic or oleaginous cath- 

 artic, combined with calomel, should be given. In case the 

 test indicates obstruction, the administration of liver stimu- 

 lants is contra-indicated, as likely to be productive of harm. 



CIRHHOSIS. 



Cirrhosis, or Induration of the Liver, may occur as a result 

 of hepatitis, but its most common cause is feeding on coarse 

 or inferior or damaged food, particularly poor hay, sudden 

 and frequent changes from food of a poor quality to a highly 

 stimulating diet, etc. It is of greatest frequency amongst 

 old animals. In man the same condition follows the Ions- 

 continued use of alcoholic stimulants, hence it has been 

 called gin-drinker's liver. 



Symptoms. — The symptoms are those of general liver dis- 

 ease, the animal gradually falling ofif in condition ; the coat 

 becomes staring, dry, and dusty-looking ; clay-coloured and 

 very fetid faeces are passed, there is a weak pulse, and at 

 first a variable appetite, which gradually fails until anorexia 

 becomes complete, the animal becomes greatly emaciated j 

 and as a rule persistently retains the standing posture to 

 the last, lingering along until finally death takes place. 

 The mucous membranes, and if the horse be white, the 

 skin, take on a well-marked yellowish tinge. On placing 

 a small portion of the faeces on a piece of white paper, a 

 stain will be left similar to that of opium. 



Treatment. — Great difficulty is generally experienced in 



