308 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



is too small or too narrow. If that be not the case, the 

 calf is over size, from water in the head, (Hydrocepha- 

 lus^) or water in the belly, [Dropsy,) or both of these 

 conditions combined, which is seen by veterinary sur- 

 geons, in large country practice. 



Before a calf of this description can be delivered, and 

 the cow relieved, the head of the calf must first be 

 pierced, to lessen its size, then a long spear-like in- 

 strument — trocar, is used to pierce the belly or abdomen of 

 the calf, to empty the fluid, to lessen also its great size. 

 When that is properly done, and the cow is not too 

 greatly exhausted, she may complete the delivery without 

 further assistance. 



Twin Calves. — Twin presentations are as various as 

 they are curious. Thus, we sometimes see a fore leg 

 of one calf, and the hind leg of the other. In this con- 

 dition of things it must be evident that no force should 

 be used to bring them away till each calf is properly ad- 

 justed in its position. The best and quickest way is 

 to adjust the calf which first presents itself, and if por- 

 tions of the other be presented also, push them back into 

 the womb. One calf safely delivered, not much difii- 

 culty will be experienced with the other. 



Unnatural Presentation. — We have now arrived at 

 that portion of our subject, which more plainly talking 

 means, when the calf is being forced into the neck 

 of the uterus or womb in any form, whatever except 

 the natural position already described. The unnatural 

 position of calves, about to be delivered is happily 

 rare, and forms the exception to the natural law of pre- 

 sentation. However rare these presentations are, they 

 nevertheless are sometimes seen. Thus the feet are pre- 



