11(5 t)IS£:ASES OP THE HOdJ. 



CHAPTEK XX. 

 DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 



Phrenitis. (Inflammation of the Brain.) Menin- 

 gitis, Inflammation of the Membrane of the Brain. 

 These two diseases are so much alike that it is im- 

 possible in the animal to discriminate accurately 

 between them. There is no doubt but that 

 at times the inflammation may exist sepa- 

 rately in either the brain itself or its cov- 

 ering, but it is only on dissection that the true 

 nature of the disease is demonstrated. It is of lit- 

 tle practical importance, as the treatment would 

 be the same in either case. In the vast majority 

 of cases both the brain and its membranes are 

 more or less affected at the same time. 



Causes: One of the most common causes of in- 

 flammation is a rich state of the blood caused by 

 over feeding, short thick necks and a weak circula- 

 tion, some kinds of food, such as brewers' grains 

 and distillery slops, often produce it. It is often 

 the result of other diseases and injuries, such as 

 kicks and blows, over-exertion, such as being pur- 

 sued on a hot day. It also sometimes occurs with- 

 out any apparent cause. 



Symptoms: The attack sometimes comes on sud-^ 

 denly or it may be preceded by dulness, loss of 



