THE DISEASES OF CATTLE. 17 



The larynx is lined by a membrane very susceptible to irri- 

 tation ; it is abundantly supplied with excretory glands and 

 orifices, for the emission of a secretion, peculiar to itself. 



LARYNGITIS. 



This disease often commences as an ordinary cold, but soon 

 the throat becomes husky, followed by prolonged sonorous res- 

 piration ; the respiration soon becomes quickened, and finally 

 the patient may die of suffocation. 



Laryngitis consists of an inflammatory affection of the sub- 

 mucous cellular membrane of the larynx, often ending in cedema, 

 or effusion into the membrane ; in such cases it is called cedema- 

 tons laryngitis. This is one of the most dangerous of all dis- 

 eases, for after oedema has once set in, the animal is liable to 

 die of asphyxia (loss of pulse), at any moment. 



Symptoms of Laryngitis. — Commencing, as it often does, 

 as an ordinary cold or sore throat, it has some symptoms in 

 coriamon with the latter. The animal protrudes the nose, so that 

 the head, instead of being pendulous, is thrust forward ; the 

 animal very rarely turns its head sideways. The region of 

 the throat is usually tumefied and tender, and pressure on the 

 larynx occasions great distress. These symptoms, associated 

 with the alarming character of the breathing, and livid appear- 

 ance of the visible surfaces, will enable any one to determine 

 the true nature of the disease. 



Treatment. — The first object is to endeavor to prevent effu- 

 sion ; in this view I recommend that the patient be carefully 

 drenched with the following : — 



Nitrate of Potassa, 1 ounce. 



Water, 6 ounces. 



Fluid extract of Lobelia, 1 drachm. Mix. 



At the end of three hours repeat the dose. In the mean time 

 bathe the jaws and throat with a strong infusion of lobelia ; 

 then apply a cold water bandage around the jaws and throat. 

 The body and limbs should be well rubbed with a wisp of 

 straw, so as to keep up an active circulation on the surface of 

 the body. An enema, composed of salt and water, may be 

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