322 GORGED STOMACH. — TYMPANY. 



came under my care tlie disease commenced and the horse died 

 within the time stated. The weight of the stomach of the 

 animal in question, together with what it contained, was 4 stones 

 10 pounds avoirdupois. The contents were all solid, not a drop 

 of loose moisture was present, although I had given the horse, 

 when alive, a quantity of liquid. 



Now cases where the stomach is gorged to this extent, are 

 from the first all but as hopeless as though the organ was rup- 

 tured. If liquid is poured down the throat, the food within the 

 organ immediately absorbs it ; and this, on many occasions, may 

 act to the prejudice of the case. 



It has been recommended, as the most rational mode of 

 treatment, to empty the stomach of its contents by means of a 

 stomach pump ; but the violence of the animal and the dry state 

 of the ingesta tend alike to render the operation impracticable. 



The operation of plunging a trocar into the middle of the 

 right flank has also been recommended. I have tried it in three 

 instances, but beyond affording a little temporary relief, I cannot 

 report in its favour. 



The best remedies in general are — Tincture of Capsicum, 

 Nux Vomica 1, Whiskey, and Tincture of Colocynth. 



TiNCTUEE OE Capsicum. — This is one of the best remedies 

 we possess for Tympanites. At the commencement of the 

 treatment, give 2 drachms, by measure, of the strong tincture 

 in 6 or 8 ounces of water ; afterwards administer it at intervals 

 of fifteen or twenty minutes, in 2-drachm doses of the 1st dilu- 

 tion. By a steady perseverance in the use of this remedy I have 

 repeatedly observed the disease to succumb. Sometimes I give 

 the first dose mixed with half a pint of Whishey and half a pint 

 of cold water. 



Ntjx Vomica 1. — This is also another excellent remedy 

 for Tympany. I have known it succeed in cases where Capsicum 



