90 BOVINE OBSTETRICS 



Only when the swelling reaches such a degree as to 

 disturb the general health of the cow, or rising or lying down 

 becomes difficult, treatment is indicated. As a rule, expectant 

 treatment is all that is necessary, the oedema disappearing 

 soon after birth. 



The decrease of the swelling of the vulva and vagina in 

 the first few days following parturition depends partly on the 

 cessation of the reflex hyperseniia, partly on the fact that the 

 venous blood now flows off more readily by the internal pubic 

 vein. 



Prognosis is usually favorable. 



The treatment primarily is directed to equalize the circu- 

 lation. For this purpose exercise is to be recommended, 

 influencing beneficially the venous circulation. In the winter, 

 of course, it is often difficult to exercise a pregnant cow; but 

 then it does not take much room for that purpose. In good 

 weather, such an animal ought to get an hour's exercise twice 

 daily. 



When the milk runs out of the teats a few days before 

 parturition — quite often the case in heavy milkers — the udder 

 ought to be emptied two or three times daily. Many owners 

 believe erroneously that the general health of the animal is 

 unfavorably influenced by this, while, on the contrary, milking 

 is beneficial. It lessens tension and diminishes fatigue the 

 result of a long continued standing posture ; as a consequence, 

 the cow can lie down. 



Since this treatment is almost invariably sufficient, thera- 

 peutics may confine itself to it. Of course it is understood 

 that rational feeding during pregnancy is the best means to 

 prevent enormous swelling, as seen in animals of a lymphatic 

 disposition. 



I again emphasize, that swelling of the udder, vulva and 

 its neighborhood is physiological, and that only extraordinary 

 swellings, influencing unfavorably the other functions of the 

 animal, are pathological and demand treatment. 



It has been recommended to treat this oedematous condi- 

 tion by massage and stimulating embrocations, as spirits of 



