COMMON AILMENTS OF CATTLE 337 



also give good results. In advanced cases where the foot has 

 swelled to any extent the application of fiaxseed poultice is to 

 be recommended. 



Bloat. This trouble comes from the formation of an ex- 

 cessive amount of gas in the paunch. It often results from 

 pasturing on clover, but may occur with any kind of feeding. 

 It is known by the excessive swelling of the left flank. If relief 



is not obtained in time, the animal >.____ \ 



dies from suffocation due to the ' ^ / 



great pressure on the lungs. In FlG - 57. Trocar used for 

 bloat. 



mild cases driving the animal at a 



rapid gait for some distance may be sufficient. Cold water 

 thrown in quantities upon the cow's sides may reduce the 

 pressure. In very severe cases the gas must be removed 

 without delay. This is best done by the use of a trocar. 

 In using this instrument a spot is selected equally distant 

 from the last rib, the hip bone, and the backbone. The 

 skin is cut for about an inch, then the trocar is thrust into 

 the paunch. The sheath of the trocar is allowed to remain in 

 the opening as long as any gas escapes, which may be several 

 hours. It is generally advisable to give a dose of 1 to 1 

 pounds of salts after a case of bloating. 



