444 THE PRACTICE OF VETEIUXARY MEDICINE. 



manner, but preferably with silver-wire sutures. As a rule, 

 if the operation be properly performed and not too long- 

 deferred, it is successful. Occasionally abscesses form, and 

 when they do, should be treated as though occurring in any 

 other part of the body. After performing the operation a 

 mild laxative and stimulant should be administered, and 

 the animal encouraged to take food ; but he should not be 

 allowed to take too great quantities of food or drink, and 

 should not be worried by the too frequent administration 

 of medicine, as the system is not in a condition to stand it, 

 and much harm may result. Gruel, ale, whisky, etc., may 

 occasionally be given to rouse the system. Enemas of tepid 

 water are useful, both in connection with the treatment 

 pursued before, and that pursued after the operation of 

 rumenotomy has been performed. 



VOMITION. 



Vomition takes place readily in the ox, and is sometimes 

 seen as a symptom of some irritation of the rumen, or 

 may occur in consequence of the presence of foreign bodies 

 in the rumen, or reticulum. All who are acquainted 

 with the habits of cattle know that they have a great 

 fondness for chewing and swallowing all sorts of things. 

 Old shoes, scissors, etc., have been found in the rumen ; 

 and a case is recorded in which a snake three feet eleven 

 inches in length was drawn out of a cow's mouth. It is 

 possible for a portion of the food to remain in the rumen 

 for six or seven weeks. This has been j^roved conclusivel3\ 

 Any of the causes mentioned above may induce vomition. 

 A tumour in connection with the rumen or reticulum may 

 also give rise to vomition. 



Treatment. — A laxative should be administered, and fol- 

 lowed by soda ; and in some cases that are obstinate, and in 



