918 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



Treatment. — The treatment resembles that recommended for 

 nephrites, which see. Should the contraction of tlie neck con- 

 tinue, a gum elastic catheter should be introduced, or a little warm 

 oil may (in the mare) be injected into the bladder. Small doses 

 of bicarbonate of soda or potash should be given to neutralize the 

 urine, which is usually acid. 



Here the principal object is to lower inflammation and relax 

 the muscular contraction of the neck of the bladder. Bleed 

 largely, almost to fainting ; give physic as for inflammation of the 

 kidneys, or a quart of linseed oil. A drachm of powdered opium, 

 made into a ball, or given in drink, every two or three hours, and 

 blister over the loins. Give aconite, as for inflammation of the 

 kidneys.* 



Retention of Urine. 



The most common cause is keeping the animal active, not giv- 

 ing time to urinate, and a spasm of the neck of the bladder or 

 gravelly concretions; any cause of irritation may cause spasm. 

 Symptoms are the same as in inflammation of the kidneys, except 

 standing very wide behind, and when walking, a straddling gait re- 

 sembling a cow with a very full bag. 



The most prompt treatment is to use the catheter, and scarcely 

 anything more is necessary. But if one is not obtainable, bleed 

 freely, and give a strong opiate: 3 oz. tinct. opium, in half a pint 

 of water. 



Bloody Urine 



Is generally the result of injuries of the loins, unwholesome food, 

 violent exercise, etc. 



Treatment. — Give j)lenty of linseed tea to drink ; if the animal 

 refuses it, drench him. Give internally, once a da}^ one of the 

 following pills: sugar of lead, 1 oz. ; linseed meal, 2 oz. Mix 

 with molasses and divide into eight parts. 



Diseases of the Nervous System. 



The nervous system consists of the brain, which is lodged in 

 the cavity of the skull (cranium) ; the sj^inal cord, lodged in the 

 cavity of the vertebral chain; and numerous little white cords, 



* If possible, call a veterinary surgeon, who will introduce a catheter, which 

 win relieve the animal immediately. 



