306 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 



The spasms often continue as he lies, and in very severe 

 cases gradually increase in frequency and intensity. 



Sensation is much impaired in the limbs ; the pulse is 

 quick, and the artery full and firm ; the resjDirations are 

 accelerated, and the temperature is elevated. 



The appetite is impaired, or lost altogether ; the urine is 

 more scant, and the bowels are usually confined. 



In those instances where the inflammation is more pro- 

 bably seated in the cord itself specially, the mode of onset 

 differs from the above. 



No symptoms of spinal inflammation are observed in 

 these cases until sudden interference with the power of 

 locomotion attracts the notice of the attendants. The loss 

 of motor power becomes in a very short time so complete 

 that the animal is prostrate, and is unable to rise. 



The muscular spasms, so prominent a feature in cases 

 where the meninges are especially involved, are not so 

 marked or so frequent in these cases. 



Sensation is rarely, if ever, entirely destroyed, pain 

 being felt when a limb is pricked. Pain, when severe, is 

 associated, as indeed is severe j^ain of other organs, with 

 acceleration of the pulse and respirations. 



Symptoms of Chronic Spinal Inflammation. — The 

 animal has tonic and clonic contraction of certain muscles, 

 or sets of muscles. 



The spasms often gradually increase in frequency and, 

 indeed, in intensity, but are rarely of such a severe descrip- 

 tion as to prevent the animal from working. 



They may afterwards subside, or pain and increased loss 

 of power over certain sets of muscles may ensue, as well as 

 rigidity or spastic contraction in diff'erent groups of 

 muscles. The animal does not show any tendency to lie 

 down, and, when down, has great difliculty in rising. 



These symptoms slowly and gradually progress, and the 



