78 SPECIAL CATTLE THERAPY 



attack; this is so variable that attempts at forecast- 

 ing it can be only problematical. All signs of the 

 disease may disappear in a few hours; on the other 

 hand, the attack may last several days or even until 

 the termination of the pregnancy. 



AVith the symptoms of puerperal mania in mind, 

 the veterinarian can not easily confuse the condition 

 with rabies. AYhile at first sight the cow^ with an 

 attack of puerperal mania may cause some concern 

 through the fear of rabies, a calm consideration of 

 the situation will usually decide the diagnosis. We 

 would make a comparison of the two diseases from 

 the standpoint of diagnosis in the following manner: 



Rabies Puerperal Mania 



Possible history of attack by 



dog or other animal. No history of such occurrence. 



Premonitory symptoms, such 



as itching, indisposition, etc. . No premonitory signs. 



Dysphagia. Swallows normally. 



Attacks viciously, using teeth Attacks excitedly only; will 

 on objects poked at her. not grasp objects with teeth. 



r 



Is not easily prevented from 



pursuing her attacks. Is easily driven off. 



Tends towards paralysis and Is unchanged, or soon im- 

 prostration rapidly. proved. 



Death is practically a fore- 

 gone conclusion. Always recover. 



Affects both sexes. Affects pregnant females only, 



or those in the puerperium. 



If, even then, it should be difficult to make a satis- 

 factory diiferentiation the animal should be isolated 

 for tw^enty-four hours. A case of rabies will have 

 developed unmistakable symptoms at the end of that 

 period; whereas, a case of puerperal mania is usually 

 well on the road to recovery in that time. 



