DISEASES. 247 



inch in length, which infests the rectum, near the tail, and 

 causes intolerable itching : the horse is continually rubbing 

 his tail and hind-quarters against anything with which he can 

 come in contact. 



For the larger worms, any tonic medicine, such as powdered 

 gentian, sulphate of iron, sulphate of copper, etc., will generally 

 suffice to weaken or kill them, when they may be removed by 

 a dose of physic. It has been recommended to give the horse, 

 in his food every day for a week, one-and-a-half drachm sul- 

 phate of iron and tartar emetic, and then administer a purga- 

 tive, the diet meanwhile being bran and hay. 



For the smaller worms, an enema of salt and water will 

 very often suffice j or, after an ordinary enema has been 

 given to clear out the intestine, another enema, composed of a 

 quart of linseed-oil, in which six ounces of oil of turpentine 

 have been mixed, should be administered. To prevent the 

 invasion of worms, it is a good plan to allow a little salt in the 

 food, or have a piece of rock salt always in the manger. 



Indigestion. 



Indigestion is due to several causes, and is most frequently 

 observed in old horses. It often arises from over-feeding, or 

 from indigestible food, and often accompanies debility. 



The treatment will depend upon the cause ; this should be 

 removed. As a rule, an oil or aloetic purgative is the first 

 step to be taken, to be followed by tonics. When the indi- 

 gestion is chronic, frequent small doses of bicarbonate of soda 

 do good. 



Diuresis or Profuse Staling. 



This condition often occurs when horses are supplied with 

 bad forage, as mow-burnt or mouldy hay, or kiln-dried oats. 

 It may also be due to giving too much diuretic medicine, as 

 nitrate of potass, turpentine, etc. What are called " condition 



