DISEASES OF THE HORSE. 2(37 



as described in the introduction to this article. Cataracts that appear 

 as a simple liaze or indefinite fleecy cloud are usually on the capsule 

 (capsular), while those that show a radiating arrangement are in the 

 lens (lenticular), the radiating fibers of which the exudate follows. 

 Black cataracts are formed by the adhesion of the pigment on the back 

 of the iris to the front of the lens, and by the subsequent tearing loose 

 of the iris, leaving a portion of its pigment adherent to the capsule of 

 the lens. If the pupil is so contracted that it is impossible to sec the 

 lens, it may be dilatc-d hy applying to the front of the eye with a 

 feather some drops of a solution of 4 grains of atropia in an ounce of 

 water. 



Treatm<mt. — The treatment of internal ophthalmia should embrace, 

 first, the removal of all existing causes or sources of aggravation of the 

 disease, which need not be here repeated. Special care to protect the 

 patient against cold, wet, strong light, and active exertion must, how- 

 ever, be insisted on. A dark stall and a cloth hung over the eye are 

 important, while cleanliness, warmth, dryness, and rest are equally 

 demanded. If the patient is strong and vigorous, a dose of 4 drams 

 of Barbados aloes may be given, and, if there is any reason to suspect 

 a rheumatic origin, one-half a dram powdered colchicum and one-half 

 ounce salicjdate of soda may be given daily. Locallv, the astringent 

 lotions advised for external ophthalmia may be resorted to, especially 

 when the superficial inflamraation is well m.arked. More important, 

 however, is to instill into the eye, a few drops at a time, a solution of 

 tt grains of atropia in 1 ounce distilled Avater. This may be effected 

 with the aid of a soft feather, and may be repeated at intervals of ten 

 minutes until the pupil is widely dilated. As the horse is to be kept 

 in a dark stall, the consequent admission of light will be harmless, and 

 the dilation of the pupil prevents adhesion between the iris and lens, 

 relieves the constant tension of the ej^e in the effort to adapt the pupil 

 to the light, and solicits the contraction of the blood vessels of the eye 

 and the lessening of congestion, exudation, and intraocular pressure. 

 Should atropia not agree with the case, it may be replaced b}^ morphia 

 (same strength) or cocaine in 4 per cent solution. Another local meas- 

 ure is a blister, which can usually be applied to advantage on the side 

 of the nose or beneath the ear. Spanish flies may be used as for exter- 

 nal ophthalmia. In very severe cases the parts beneath the eye may 

 be shaved and three or four leeches applied. Setons are sometimes 

 beneficial, and even puncture of the eyeball, bat these should be 

 reserved for professional hands. 



The diet throughout should be easily digestible and moderate in 

 quantity — bran inashes, middlings, grass, steamed hay, etc. 



Even after the active inflammation has subsided the atropia lotion 

 -bould be continued for some weeks to keep the eye in a state of rest 

 in its still weak and irritable condition, and during this period the 



