PEEPAEATION FOE PHYSIC. 77 



however, by which this fact is to be ascertained (as to the 

 sensitiveness of a particular horse to the drug,) are by its 

 administration. The ordinary quantity for a dose, is from 

 four to six drachms, mixed with a little powdered gentian 

 and palm oil, and given as a ball. The latter ingredient 

 being merely used to make up an adherent mass convenient 

 for ready use. 



Sometimes the aloe fails to produce purgation. A full 

 stomach is a preventative to this, also the non -preparation of 

 the bowels with mashes ; . hence the reason why mashes of 

 bran should be allowed to prepare the stomach and bowels for 

 the drug, and why the animal should fast for some hours prior 

 to the ball being given. When the aloe fails to purge, it may 

 excite the kidneys, and its effects pass off by causing greater 

 abundance of urine ; when this occurs, it is not wise to repeat 

 the ball in less than a week from the administration of the 

 first. 



The usual practice with purgative medicine, is to give it 

 in a morning. "With this, as a general rule, I do not concur, 

 for the following reasons. It is seldom or ever a purgative 

 will act under twelve or fifteen hours after its administration ; 

 and in many cases it is apt to occasion serious disturbance 

 to the bowels, which should be counteracted as soon as 

 possible. It sometimes produces Colic of severe character, so 

 that when the ball is given in a morning, the disease alluded to 

 may supervene during the night, and in all probability at a 

 time when the attendants are not at hand to afford the animal 

 relief ; but if the ball be given at night, and any disturbance 

 of the kind named should arise the day following, it is more 

 likely to be speedily discovered, and relief promptly afforded. 

 As a general rule then, I should advise when a physic ball is 

 given, to give it at night. 



