LOCK-JAW. 



148 



as the horse can bear them : then pour them into the 

 abscess and close the lips by one or two stitches ; this 

 is to remain for several days without any other dres- 

 sing, except bathing with spirits of wine. Should 

 matter flow in great abundance, and of thin consisten- 

 cy, the above application must be again repeated until 

 the matter decreases in quantity, and becomes of a 

 whitish colour and healthy appearance. 



LOCK-JAW. 



V* 



THE lock-jaw is so fatal in its consequences, that it 

 is a fortunate circumstance it occurs so seldom amongst 

 horses. 



It commences with a difficulty in mastication, and 

 shortly after the jaws are so completely and im move- 

 ably closed, that it is with much difficulty that medi- 

 cines can be administered. The muscles of the neck 

 appear much contracted, and the animal appears to 

 suffer great pain. 



The lock-jaw is frequently brought on by trifling 

 causes, such as cuts, wounding of nerves, tendons, &c. 

 Generally speaking, the cure is very uncertain ; but it 

 will chiefly depend on opium, the warm bath, and 

 other antispasmodics. Sometimes the sudden appli- 

 cation of cold water, in great quantities, has been 

 serviceable ; friction of turpentine oil or spirits, gene- 

 rally proves useful, as does a clyster made with two 



