MANAGEMENT OF DAIRY CATTLE 



237 



have cows in a high state of flesh at calving without loss 

 from milk fever. 



The disease is so typical it is easily recognized. It occurs 

 in nearly every case within 48 hours after calving, and usually 

 only after normal parturition. Every cow liable to be affected 

 should be watched carefully for symptoms until the danger 

 is past. The first indications are restlessness and excite- 

 ment on the part of the cow. Within a short time paralysis 

 of the hind legs begins, resulting in a staggering gait. The 

 animal soon falls and is unable to rise. From this time on the 

 cow becomes unconscious, and remains so until death occurs 

 in from 18 to 48 hours unless treated. The cow assumes a 

 characteristic position, which is of great value in diagnosing 

 the case. The head is turned to one side, and rests on the 

 chest with the muzzle pointing toward the flank. The entire 

 body is paralyzed, making it impossible to give medicine; but 

 fortunately none is required. 



The first effective treatment was discovered by Schmidt of 

 Denmark, who injected a solution of iodide of potash into the 

 udder. Later 

 Anderson, also of 

 Denmark, found 

 that the injec- 

 tion of ordinary 

 air is far superior 

 to the first treat- 

 ment. This is T-, . , 



FIG. 45. Apparatus for treating milk fever. 



the method now 



universally used. Every dairyman should be provided with 

 a suitable milk fever outfit to treat cases promptly as they 

 appear. The apparatus used may be of various forms. 



