57 



and those with short, thick necks being especially liable to 

 attacks of congestion of the brain, compression of the distended 

 vascular structures (arterial capillaries) by an abnormal gaseous 

 tension in the stomach and intestine, over-feeding after a pro- 

 longed abstinence or when the exercise is insufficient, and foods 

 difficult of digestion. 



Symptoms. — Congestion of the brain is usually sudden in its 

 manifestation and of short duration. 



The animal may stop very suddenly and shake his head, or 

 stand quietly braced on his legs, then stagger, make a plunge 

 and fall: the eyes are staring, breathing hurried and snoring, 

 nostrils widely dilated: this may be followed by coma (insensi- 

 bility), violent convulsive movement, and death. 



Generally, however, the animal gains relief in a short time, 

 but he may remain weak and giddy for several days. If it is 

 due to organic change in the heart or disease of the blood vessels 

 in the brain the symptoms may be of slow development, mani- 

 fested by drowsiness, diminished or impaired vision, difficulty 

 in voluntary movemsnts, diminished sensibility of the skin, loss 

 of consciousness, delirium, and death. 



Treatment . — Prompt removal of all mechanical obstruction to 

 the circulation. If it is due to venous obstruction by too tight 

 a collar, the loosening of the collar will give immediate relief. 

 If due to tumors or abscesses, a surgical operation becomes neces- 

 sary to afford relief. To relieve the animal, if he becomes par- 

 tially or totally unconscious, cold water should be dashed on the 

 head and if this does not afford relief, recourse must be had to 

 bleeding to lessen arterial tension. If symptoms of paralysis 

 remain after two or three days, an active cathartic (1 ounce 

 aloes) and iodide of potassium should be given in 1-dram doses 

 three times daily. Place the animal in a cool, dark, well- 

 ventilated stable, keep him perfectly quiet, and give cooling diet. 



SUNSTROKE. 



Sunstroke is a cerebral trouble which is produced by solar 

 (sun) rays falling directly upon the cranium. 



HEATSTROKE. 



Heatstroke is caused by the overheating of the whole body and 

 by excessive exertion. 



