DISEASES OF THE HORSE. S7 



The dose can be increased or decreased according to the se- 

 verity of the case. Blister his sides just behind his forelegs ; 

 bathe his throat with some strong liniment, and give him plenty 

 of pure air ; do not stand him in the draught ; rub his legs well 

 with some stimulating liniment,, remembering that good care is 

 one-half the battle. 



Spasmodic Colic. 



One of the most dangerous and common diseases to which the 

 horse is subject, is the Colic, both spasmodic and flatulent. Spas- 

 modic Colic, if not relieved, will, in severe cases, cause inflam- 

 mation of the bowels and speedy death. 



Flatulent Colic, while exhibiting the general symptoms, shows 

 marked enlargement of the body, from generation of gas, which, 

 when not checked and neutralized, results fatally by rupturing 

 the diaphragm, causing death. 



The causes of colic are drinking cold water when in a heated 

 condition, costiveness, unwholesome food, and the application of 

 cold water to the body, &c. 



Premonitory symptoms are sudden. The animal paws violently, 

 showing evidences of great distress, shifting his position con- 

 stantly, and manifesting a desire to lie down. 



In a few minutes these symptoms disappear and the horse is 

 easy. 



He may also act as if he desired to make water, which he is 

 unable to do, there being a spasmodic contraction of the urethra. 

 Hence the desire to give diuretic medicine. Straining in this 

 way is usually prompted by a desire to relieve the muscles of the 

 belly. No diuretic remedy should be given the horse, as he 

 cannot pass the urine until the attack of colic ceases, or it is 

 taken from him with a catheter. 



