272 THE POULTRY-BOOK. 



VI. EXTERNAL DISORDERS. 

 I. DISEASE OF THE RUMP GLAND. 



Mowbray speaks of an obstruction of the gland of the rump 

 in fowls, under the name of Imposthume, and strangely enough 

 denominates the disease as Roup. Concerning the functions 

 of this gland, erroneous ideas have very generally prevailed ; 

 and the common notion has been, that its use was to secrete an 

 oily matter, which was applied by the fowl to the purpose of 

 making their feathery coating water-tight. M. Reaumur has 

 effectually exploded this fancy, by showing conclusively the 

 perfect impracticability of producing a secretion of sufficient 

 quantity to answer this end. And, in confirmation of this opin- 

 ion, it is only necessary to mention, that while, in the case of 

 the Rumkin fowl, there is no perceptible difference in the 

 feathers so far as shedding water is concerned, they are 

 deprived of any such gland. 



But this gland frequently becomes diseased, and in conse- 

 quence of obstruction, it is inflamed and swollen, and occasions 

 great pain and uneasiness. In severe cases, the whole rump 

 is affected, and the consequences may be serious. 



This affection should be treated as a boil ; when it becomes 

 hard and ripe, let the pus or matter out by a slight incision. 

 Reaumur advises that the outlet or duct of the gland should be 

 cleared from obstruction by means of a tent introduced into the 

 orifice. 



II. FRACTURES AND DISLOCATIONS. 



In most cases, when severe fractures occur to the limbs of 

 fowls, unless they are very valuable, undoubtedly the best course 

 to pursue, in mercy to the birds, is to kill them at once. But 

 when it is deemed worth while to preserve them, splints may 

 be used, when practicable. Great cleanliness must be observed, 

 the diet should be reduced, and every precaution taken against 



