DROPSY OF THE FCETAL MEMBRANES 137 



liydrallantois, an abnormal torsion of the umbilical cord and a 

 marked oedema of the allantois, chorion and placenta. 



Symptoins. — The veterinarian, when called to attend to 

 such diseases, finds a hydropsy of great dimensions, accom- 

 panied with well marked phenomena. The first symptom 

 observed by the attendant is the distension of the abdomen, 

 already enormous in the sixth or seventh month. It is readily 

 seen that he should mistake the abnormal distension for 

 multiple pregnancy. Since the cow, in spite of good care, 

 becomes more and more emaciated, he finally concludes that 

 something else is the matter. 



Examination of such an animal reveals the following 

 symptoms : The belly is very much distended, especially at 

 its most dependent portion. At first this distention is local- 

 ized in the right lower abdominal region, but later also in the 

 left one. The flanks are sunk in more or less ; the transverse 

 processes of the lumbar vertebrae are plainly visible, the liga- 

 ments are tense, the udder flabby. Usually the cow is very 

 much emaciated, and appetite has decreased ; later there are 

 dyspnoea, costal respiration exaggerated ; micturition and 

 defecation often normal. Whenever the belly becomes dis- 

 tended to a marked degree, the animal prefers to stand up ; 

 she lies down but a short time, resting upon the hocks and 

 knees, not on the side. The increased pressure in the 

 abdominal cavity pushes the diaphragm forward, producing 

 dyspnoea. Toward the end of the disease the cow utters an 

 expiratory moan. 



Cases have been met with where the distension of the 

 belly was so enormous as to produce rupture of the abdominal 

 wall and uterine hernia (v. Lindenberg). In rare instances, 

 early expulsion of the foetal membranes takes place. 



Diagnosis. — The early recognition of this disease is of the 

 greatest importance, as it leaves some chances for the recovery 

 of the mother. Before a diagnosis can be made, an external 

 examination of the abdomen, and a rectal, respectively vaginal, 

 exploration are necessary. 



Palpation of the right abdominal region for the foetus, and 



