HORSES. 139 



bing th« head against the lower part of the manger or 

 other tn>iig, striking the poll in passing into a low stable 

 or elsewhere ; jerking back the head, when hitched by 

 the bridle or halter. It is sometimes occasioned by a 

 general morbid state of the system. It is often caused 

 by tossing up the head to avoid the pain and discomfort 

 occasioned by the check or bearing reins, which constrain 

 the head in an unnatural position. [See page 77.] 



Symptoms. At first, the animal appears restless, 

 throwing up his head, and returning it. He soon drops 

 his head, holding it first on one side, and then on the 

 other. He appears dull about the eyes, and sluggish in 

 all his movements. Heat and swelling of the poll follow. 

 [f the evil is deep, the swelling is wide ; but vvhen near 

 the surface, it presents a point. * 



Remedy. When taken early, the disease may some- 

 times be dispersed. Abate the inflammation by bleed- 

 mg and physic, and frequent application of warm vine- 

 gar, saturated with salt. Observe a cooling regimen, 

 reducing the quantity of oats, and soon discontinue them 

 altogether. Apply an astringent or scattering poultice ; 

 but be careful and not pursue this course far, unless it 

 is likely to succeed. 



If heat, swelling, and tenderness increase, matter will 

 form in the tumor, and the whole course of treatment 

 must be changed ; a full habit will be necessary, in 

 order to bring it to a suppuration as fast as possible ; 

 and the parts should be softened and drawn by a poul- 

 tice of oat or Indian meal, applied lukewarm, twice a 

 day. The power of the poultice may be increased by 

 roasted onions. Mix with it a small quantity of hog's 

 lard or sweet oil. It should cover the whole swelling 

 two inches thick. 



When the tumor is ripe, if near the top, it may break ; 

 but if deep, it must be opened. The opening should be 

 a little below the centre, and lengthwise, lest the cervic- 

 ular ligament under the mane be cut, M^hich will cause 

 the head to droop ever after. In order that the matter 

 may run out as fast as formed, and not collect at the 

 bottom of the ulcer, corroding and irritating it, a seton 

 should be inserted, penetrating through the bottom, and 



