336 DAIRY CATTLE AND MILK PRODUCTION 



days. In some cases the animal soon recovers without injury, 

 while in others loss of the eyesight may result if not properly 

 treated. 



The affected animal should be kept in a dark, cool stable, 

 and supplied with easily digested food and plenty of water. 

 The eyes should be washed twice daily at least with a strong 

 solution of boracic acid (1 dram dissolved in 4 ounces of water). 

 This wash should be applied directly to the eyeballs, and is 

 conveniently done by the use of a syringe. The animal will 

 usually recover within a few days. 



Foot Rot. This is the name applied to a common inflam- 

 mation that occurs between the toes and may extend above 

 the hoof. It is attributed to the irritation of stable manure, 

 or some foreign substance such as a stone or cinder becoming 

 wedged between the toes. It commonly affects sheep and 

 cattle. 



Animals running in stony lots or pastures become affected 

 with foot rot quite often. It occurs, however, at times un- 

 der conditions that leave no doubt that it is -contagious. It is 

 recognized by a limping gait and a swelling above and between 

 the claws. The odor of the affected part is very offensive. 

 If neglected, a serious condition may develop; but if treat- 

 ment is given during the early stages, it is easily remedied. 

 The most simple method of treatment is to clean the affected 

 parts by means of passing a small rope between the claws and 

 drawing it back and forth in a sawlike motion, and then ap- 

 plying some good disinfectant to the affected parts. Sev- 

 eral applications of some of the coal tar disinfectants is usu- 

 ally sufficient to heal it up. These are best applied in their 

 pure form. A solution of carbolic acid, 1 ounce to a pint, of 

 water or a saturated solution of blue vitriol (copper sulf ate) will 



