60 NON-SPECIFIC OR GENERAL DISEASES 



it. In the fall of the year, when the season is changing from 

 warm to cool weather and the horse eliminates less water from 

 the body by way of the skin, the kidneys may become more 

 active and the qnantity of nrine secreted be greatly increased. 

 This, however, is a normal physiological condition and shonld 

 not be confused with this disease. 



The first symptom noted is the frequent passing of a large 

 quantity of urine. The animal drinks more water than usual 

 and the appetite is poor. Dulness and a weak, emaciated condi- 

 tion are prominent symptoms. Death occurs unless the cause 

 of the disease is removed. If the poisonous substance has been 

 acting for some time, it is difficult to cure the animal. 



This disease can be prevented by eliminating spoiled feeds 

 from the ration fed to animals in our care. Early in the attack 

 the necessary attention to the ration and the feeding of a clean, 

 nourishing ration is sufficient to correct the disease. The 

 quantity of water drunk by the animal should be limited. Com- 

 plete rest is indicated. Laxatives, stinmlants and tonics should 

 be given if necessary. 



Nephritis. — Congestion and inflammation of the kidneys 

 commonly occur in mixed and specific infectious diseases, such 

 as septicaemia, pyaemia and influenza. The toxic effect of spoiled 

 feeds, impure drinking water, and irritating drugs like can- 

 tharides and turpentine may so irritate the kidneys as to cause 

 them to become inflamed. Chilling of the skin and nervousness 

 or extreme fear may sometimes cause a congestion of these 

 organs. Inflammation of the kidneys is a common complication 

 of azoturia. Irritation from parasites should be included 

 among the causes of this disease. 



The symptoms vary in the different stages of the disease. 

 During the period of active congestion the quantity of urine 

 secreted is increased. The scant secretion of urine, dark in 

 color and thick or turbid, is suggestive of an inflammation of 

 the kidneys. The animal moves stiffly, the back may be arched, 



