954 DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT. 



Thrush. 



Copying the language of a standard authority, " Thrush is 

 inflammation of the lower structure of the sensible frog, during 

 which pus is secreted with or instead of horn." It is most com- 

 mon in the hind feet, and also occurs in the fore. It occurs at all 

 ages, and is frequently seen in the colt running in the straw-yard, 

 arising from the acrid moisture of urine, dung, etc., softening and 

 corroding the frog, and extending to the sensible structures above. 

 It is also seen in roadsters whose feet are not exposed to acrid 

 moisture. In them it is caused by contraction, or the insinuation 

 of sand and dirt into the cleft of the frog, producing irritation, 

 followed by suppuration of the sensitive frog, causing it to secrete 

 unhealthy horn, and discharge offensive matters. 



It may sometimes be constitutional, as we often observe it ap- 

 pear just as the coat is being changed, and other constitutional 

 changes are taking place in the system. 



Symptoms. — There is seldom much lameness, unless the ani- 

 mal steps on a stone, or sand or gravel gets into the cleft ; but it 

 is always attended by a tender, gingerly action. The cleft of the 

 frog is deeper than in health, and a thin acrid discharge oozes from 

 its sides and bottom, emitting a characteristic and foetid odor. If 

 not checked, it extends, and the frog becomes loose and ragged ; 

 scales fall off in layers, exposing the sensitive parts, which are 

 tender and contracted. If neglected, the entire foot may be in- 

 volved, and it may degenerate into canker. 



Treatment. ^ — No time should be lost, and no case, however 

 slight, should be neglected. The foot must be thoroughly cleaned, 

 and all loose, detached parts freely removed. The secreting sur- 

 face should be exposed, and calomel dusted on, and pressed with 

 a spatula or thin slip of wood into every crevice. Keep the foot 

 thoroughly dry, and more than one or two dressings will seldom 

 be required. Sometimes it readily yields to cleanliness and sim- 

 ple dressings, with hot tar placed in the cleft with tow, and re- 

 tained with cross slips, or applications of sugar of lead or sulphate 

 of zinc. Or, after the parts have been washed, and the diseased 

 part removed as directed, apply powdered sulphate of copper to 

 the parts, and fill up all parts with cotton packed in so as to keep 

 out all dirt. If necessary, this should be repeated in a few days. 



