DISEASES OF THE EAR. 



By M. R. Tbumbowek, D. V. S. 

 [Revised in 1904 by Leonard Pearson, B. S., V. M. D.] 



Diseases of the ears of cattle are not very common, for the reasons 

 probably that they are not subjected to the brutality of drivers so 

 much as horees and that the horns to a great extent protect them 

 against external violence. 



OTITIS (inflammation OF THE INTERNAL EAR) . 



Inflammation of the deep part of the ear is often difficult to recog- 

 nize in cattle. It may be caused by disease of bone in that region, 

 from blows inflicted by drivers, or fiom injuiy by other cattle. 

 Occasionally the ear becomes involved in actinomycx)sis, or the inflam- 

 mation may be the result of a tuberculous affection. 



Symptoms. — The animal will hold its head to one side, or shake it, 

 \rhile the ear itself is held immovable. The movement of the jaws in 

 eating usually gives rise to a manifestation of pain; the base of the 

 ear may be feverish and swollen, and very sensitive to the touch. If 

 the inflammation has advanced to a suppurative stage, matter will 

 flow from the ear, which generally emits a verv offensive odor. 



Treatment. — At first hot fomentations to reduce pain and fever, 

 followed by a sharp blister below the ear. Laudanum, 1 part to 10 

 parts of sweet oil, may be injected into the ear to relieve pain and to 

 soften the secretions. If there is a discharge from the ear, it should 

 be thoroughly washed out by injecting warm soapsuds until all the 

 matter has been washed away; then inject the following mixture 

 twice a day: Sulphate of morphia, 20 grains; water, 1 pint; glycerin, 

 4 ounces. 



Abscesses sometimes form about the base of the ear, either inside 

 or outside, caused by contusions. A serous cyst is found occasionally 

 between the cartilage and the skin on the base of the ear, which may 

 be due to a similar cause. 



Treatment. — Make a free incision with the knife into the most 

 prominent part of the abscess or cyst, then wash out the sac with 



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