No. 4.] DISEASE IN HORSES. 267 



It is 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 oesophagus. Tliey should be prepared for feeding by 

 being cut into long, thin slices, or shredded by a machine. 

 Fine, dry, chafl-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 feed- 

 ing or one hour after. If a large quantity of cold water is 

 given just before eating, it predisposes to attacks of indi- 

 gestion. The effect of the cold water in contact with the 

 mucous membrane is to cause contraction of the blood ves- 

 sels. This forces the blood away from the stomach and in- 

 testines. 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 circula- 

 tion of blood in the stomach and intestines becomes estab- 

 lished, 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 afterward, the passage of the water 

 through the stomach carries undigested food into the intes- 

 tines, 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. 



