Dropsy 405 



DROPSY 



Dropsy is known by the collecting of watery fluid in 

 some part of the body, either in a cavity, as the abdomen, 

 or by infiltration into the tissues. Usually dropsy is 

 due to a weakened circulation, or to general debility. 



There is swelling of the part without inflammation 

 or particular pain. If the fluid is in a cavity, the fact 

 is readily determined by the enlargement and its watery 

 contents. When the fluid infiltrates into the tissues, 

 there is pitting of the part on pressure, the pits remain- 

 ing for some time after the pressure is removed. The 

 circulation in the part is usually poor, and the region 

 is colder than normal. 



A mild dropsical condition is commonly called 

 "stocking" or "stocks." In this case the horse's legs 

 swell, usually after standing in the stable during the 

 winter season. The swelling disappears on driving or 

 exercise, but returns on standing. 



The first thing to be done is to restore the circulation 

 in the part. In some cases this can be accomplished by 

 removing some abnormal pressure that interferes with 

 the blood supply. Hand -rubbing, bathing with hot 

 water and gentle exercise are good. Some medicine 

 should be given to stimulate the kidneys to carry away 

 the excess of fluid, such as saltpeter in ounce doses for 

 an adult horse once daily for three or four days. A 

 variety of nutritious laxative food, to nourish the ani- 

 mal and keep the bowels open, is important. Tonic 

 condition powders in the feed are excellent. The aim is 

 to bring the animal to a vigorous condition. 



