325 



case the animal lies down. If the animal is lying down, proceed in the 

 same way as for the mare. Cases are frequently met with where the 

 womb has been out for five or six hours, causmg the mucous membrane 

 to become much congested, jelly-like, and very stiff, from infiltration 

 of fluid in the sub-mucous tissue. Before attempting reduction in 

 these cases, the uterus should be scarified in several places, with the 

 point of a lancet, and kneaded and pressed with the hands to make it 

 pliable. Pressure should never be applied when the animal is straining — 

 always yield to it. After reduction, if five or six quarts of tepid w^ater, 

 containing one ounce of tincture of iron, be mjected into the womb, 

 it acts as a good antiseptic, and causes the uterus to contract, closing 

 up any lacerations which may have been caused in reduction. Stitches 

 may, or may not be put across the vulva, or a truss may be put on to 

 prevent recurrence. Should the animal strain and press a great deal 

 after the operation, the best sedative is to drive it into a pond, letting 

 it stand up to the knees for 15 or 20 minutes, and allowing it to drink 

 the water if so inclined. A good sedative draught, composed of one 

 to two wine-glassfuls of laudanum and one pint of linseed oil, may also 

 be administered. In some cases the womb is torn to such a degree that 

 it has to be cut off — a formidable operation, yet successful cases are 

 recorded. 



796. Eversion of the Bladder also occasionally happens. It is 

 easily known by its bluish-green colour, and the constant dribbling of 

 water down the thighs, while a portion of the bladder is seen hanging 

 outside. On careful exammation of the parts, the meatus uvinaviiis 

 (neck of the h\d.dder— Plate XXXVIII., B 7) is found. By gentle 

 pressure it can be readily returned, but it is very difficult to keep in its 

 place, though on driving the animal about, and dashing a few quarts 

 of cold water agamst the vulva, it will usually retain its position. 



797. Rupture of the Bladder I have met with, where the mare 

 had began foaling during the night without assistance, and it always 

 has terminated fatally. 



798. Vaginitis, or Inflammation of the Vagina, like inflamma- 

 tion of the womb, is mostly due to damage done during difficult 



