39 



yield a starch- converting ferment active at body temperature, but 

 destroyed by boiling. They have further stated that starch-con- 

 verting ferments may in the horse be derived from the air swal- 

 lowed with the food." Practical experience in feeding in large 

 stables shows unquestionably that more horses suffer from indi- 

 gestion, colic, etc., when fed cooked grain rather than uncooked. 

 Certain foods, such as pototoes, pumpkins, etc., are rendered 

 more digestible and less harmful by cooking. It it quite probable 

 that bacteria of different species taken in with the food exert an 

 influence over the process of digestion. 



The feeding of oval, spherical, square or angular pieces of roots 

 should be avoided. Their shape favors their arrest in the oesopha- 

 gus. They should be prepared for feeding by being cut into long, 

 thin slices, or shredded by a machine. Fine, dry, chaff-like 

 material may also cause choking. If moistened before being 

 fed, or the animal compelled to eat it slowly, its arrest in the 

 gullet is prevented. 



The rule with reference to watering horses is based on the results 

 of careful investigation. It is exceedingly simple and easy to 

 remember. Either water one-half hour before feeding or one hour 

 after. If a large quantity of cold water is given just before eating, 

 it predisposes to attacks of indigestion. The effect of the cold 

 water in contact with the mucous membrane is to cause contraction 

 of the blood vessels. This forces the blood away from the stomach 

 and intestines. If, now, food is taken in, it cannot be digested, 

 owing to absence of blood about the secreting glands. When 

 cold water is taken a half-hour before feeding, the circulation of 

 blood in the stomach and intestines becomes established, so that 

 upon the arrival of the food the glands are in condition to perform 

 their function. When a horse is fed, and watered directly after- 

 ward, the passage of the water through the stomach carries undi- 

 gested food into the intestines, beyond the reach of the stomach 

 and intestinal juices. The irritation of the undigested food in the 

 intestines may cause colic. When heated, small quantities of 

 water may be allowed, but giving large amounts should be avoided. 

 Small amounts at frequent intervals may be allowed animals when 

 on the road, and this is a general rule that may be applied in 

 nearly all conditions of the animal. 



