110 DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



As already pointed out, paralysis may be due to concussion of the 

 spine, fracture of a bone of the spinal column with consequent com- 

 pression of the spinal cord, concussion of the brain, or compression of 

 the brain. An injury to one side of the brain may produce paralysis 

 of the same side of the head, and of the opposite side of the body 

 hemiplegia. Paralysis may occur in connection with parturient 

 apoplexy, lead poisoning, ergotism, etc. 



CONGESTIOX OF THE SPINAL CORD. 



Paraplegia., or paralysis of the rear part of the body, is the domi- 

 nant symptom in congestion or inflammation of the spinal cord. The 

 cause is not known, but the disease is probably due to chilling. It is 

 thought by some that some toxic influence (poison) may be responsi- 

 ble for its development. 



Symptoms. — The symptoms usually appear suddenly, and consist 

 in inability to stand. Sometimes this is preceded by a period of 

 excitement. The animal usually lies quietly, but sometimes it groans 

 and tosses its head about in a way that indicates pain. Cows heavy 

 with calf are sometimes affected with a form of paraplegia, which 

 usually attacks them from about a month to a few days before 

 calving. Apparently they are in good health in every respect except 

 the inability to stand up on account of the paralysis of the hind 

 quarters. This form is generally attributed to feeding on foods con- 

 taining insufficient protein and ash. It is most likely to occur in 

 cows that are weak and thin. With good care and food recovery 

 usually occurs. 



Treatment. — The animal must be given a soft, dry bed under shel- 

 ter and in a quiet, airy place. It is well to apply mustard along the 

 spine. The action of the mustard may be intensified by rubbing 

 the skin with ammonia or turpentine. Internally give a purge of 

 Glauber's salt. Nux vomica or strychnia (1 to 2 grain doses) may 

 be given. Turn the cow two to four timas daily and rub the legs 

 well each time. 



There are instances when cows will persist in lying down (in spite 

 of all efforts that are made to compel them to stand up), when it can 

 not really be said that they are paralyzed. They have sensation in 

 all parts; they can move all their feet ; they can change their position; 

 and in fact every function seems to be normally performed, but they 

 obstinately refuse to rise, or even make an effort to do so. Cases of 

 this kind have been killed, as it was an utter impossibility to get 

 the animal on its feet. However, there are instances when a cow, 

 after refusing to rise when all other means had been tried, quickly 

 jumped to her feet and showed fright upon the appearance of a dog 

 or other terrifying object. 



