CHAPTER IV. 



GENERAL DISEASES. 



FEBRICULA, OR SIMPLE FEVER. 



Definition. — Febricula is a simple fever characterized by- 

 rigors, elevation of temperature, quick pulse and respira- 

 tions. It is a benign affection, and usually terminates in 

 restoration to health, and unaccompanied by serious com- 

 plications. 



Etiology. — Among the causes of simple fever are : ex- 

 posure to cold and wet, variations in temperature, fatigue, 

 and irregular dieting. 



Symptoms. — The first stage, i.e. the atiacJc, is usually 

 ushered in by a rigor or shivering fit, with rise of the in- 

 ternal temperature from 101° to 105° or more. The pulse is 

 usually raised to 60 or 70, the respirations are somewhat 

 accelerated, and there is loss of appetite. In the second 

 stage, which follows in a few hours, the fever reaches its 

 acme. The volume of the pulse is increased and the surface 

 temperature rises, the bowels are costive, and the internal 

 temperature remains elevated for several days. In the 

 third stage, or stage of decline, or defervescence, as it is termed, 

 the temperature usually falls several degrees by crisis, and 

 then gradually falls to the normal by lysis. 



Treatment. — Place the animal in a loose, well- ventilated 

 box. In the early stage the surface temperature should be 

 kept up by friction and by moderate clothing. Medicinally, 



