DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY APPARATUS 95 



accustomed to warm stables, are very apt to take " cold " if 

 changed to a cold stable and not protected with a blanket. .Most 

 animals are not affected by the cold weather if given dry quarters 

 and a dry bed. Irritation to the mucous membrane by dust, 

 gases and germs is a common cause. Influenza and colt dis- 

 temper are characterized by an inflammation of the respiratory- 

 mucous membranes. In the horse, chronic catarrh is commonly 

 caused by diseased teeth, and injuries to the wall of the maxillary 

 sinus. In sheep, the larva3 of the bot-fly may cause catarrh. 



The early symptoms usually pass unnoticed by the attendant. 

 The lining membrane of the nostrils is at first dry and red. 

 During this stage sneezing is common. In a few days a dis- 

 charge appears. This is watery at first, but may become 

 catarrhal, heavy, mucous-like and turbid. In severe cases it 

 resembles pus. The lining membrane of the eyelids appears red 

 and tears may flow from the eye. Sometimes the animal acts 

 dull and feverish, but this symptom does not last longer than 

 one or t^vo days unless complicated by sore throat. 



Iiifiammation of the throat is a common complication of 

 " colds." It is characterized by difficulty in swallowing and 

 partial, or complete loss of appetite. Drinking or exercising 

 causes the animal to cough. If the larynx as well as the pharynx 

 is inflamed, distressed and noisy breathing may occur. Pressure 

 over the region of the throat causes the animal pain. 



Common " cold " terminates favorably within a week. 

 Chronic catarrh may persist until the cause is removed and the 

 necessary local treatment applied. Inflammation of the pharynx 

 and larynx may persist for several weeks unless properly treated. 

 Abscesses may fonn in the region of the throat. Horses fre- 

 quently become thick winded as a result of severe attacks of 

 sore throat. 



The treatment is both preventive and curative. " Colds " 

 and sore throat can be largely prevented by good care, exercise 

 and properly ventilated stables. Mild cases require a light diet, 



