Acute Mammitis 957 



directly beneath the udder. The fomentation and massage 

 are then applied, the bath being kept hot by repeated additions 

 of hot water. 



It has been recommended also to modify the blood flow in the 

 mammae by suspension or compres.sion of the glands. Some 

 recommend that a three-cornered piece of cloth, of sufficient size 

 to encompass the udder, be fitted with long straps, those 

 from one corner passing up behind on either side of the tail, 

 those from the other corners upwards along the flanks, and all 

 tied securely over the loins. This may support the weight of 

 the pendulous udder, exert some pressure upon it, and de- 

 crease the engorgement of the gland. Some would cut holes in 

 the suspensorium, through which the teats may project, so that 

 the cow may be milked ; others advise that the teats be included 

 in the bandage, and one corner detached while the cow is being 

 milked. 



It has also been proposed to strap the udder tightly with strips 

 of adhesive plaster, and to thereby exert compression upon the 

 gland, but the plan has not come into general use, presumably 

 because it has failed to produce the expected results. 



The form, direction and location of the udder of the cow render 

 suspension and adhesive strapping exceedingly difficult, and the 

 efficiency of neither has been demonstrated. It may well be 

 questioned whether the inevitable partial displacement of such 

 appliances, when the animal lies down, does not induce injuries 

 which more than counterbalance any possible good it is hoped 

 to derive from the strapping or suspension. 



With the aid of the suspensory bandage, poultices were for- 

 merly applied to the inflamed udder. They were highly com- 

 mended by many, but their use has been largely discontinued. 

 They are difficult of application and retention, and their value 

 is very problematic. 



Instead of attempting to decrease the blood flow to the in- 

 flamed gland, some would increase it. This is probably in a 

 measure brought about by nia.ssage and by the application of 

 stimulating liniments. Cupping has also been tried. A cup- 

 ping glass of sufficient size is fitted over the teat of the affected 

 quarter, and the air exhausted. This may cause the discharge of 

 quantities of secretions which could not be withdrawn by milking, 

 and stimulates increased nutrition in the diseased tissues. 



