150 VETERINARY MEDICINE AND 8UK&ERY. 



should they cease to perforin their functions, diuretics, and more particu- 

 larly colchicnm, 



Tincture of colchicum | L 



In drinking water. 



are to be used. The animal should always be placed in a large, well- 

 bedded, dry, loose box, with plenty of short straw or chaff around it, 

 which is to be removed as soon as it becomes damp or wet. If unable to 

 rise, it is to be turned from side to side two or three times a day, or more 

 frequently if it becomes uneasy. Enemas are to be administered until 

 purgation commences, and plenty of diluents allowed. Generally the 

 horse is thirsty, and will drink cold water freely and to manifest advan- 

 tage. 



There is no necessity to aggravate the disease by either stimulants or 

 sedatives. They always do harm during the first stages of the malady. 

 If, however, towards the third day the animal seems depressed, moderate 

 doses of spirits of nitrous ether may be given two or three times daily; 

 and about this time attempts should be made to get the horse on its legs. 

 If unable to do so without assistance, the slings should be placed under 

 it, and it is to be gradually placed on its feet. At first it will be much 

 disinclined to stand, and will be apt to fall from muscular weakness; but 

 if the limbs are supported and smartly hand-rubbed for some minutes, 

 they will regain much of their lost power, the horse will begin to ''feel 

 himself," as is commonly said, and will often commence to feed and do 

 well. It should be kept in the slings for a few days, but taken out occa- 

 sionally for a little exercise; and when allowed to lie down for the first 

 time, it should be carefully watched, as it is apt to knock about very 

 much if unable to rise with ease. 



During the first few days the diet is to be of the lightest description 

 and restricted in quantity, but when convalescence has commenced, it 

 must be moderately nutritive and easy of digestion, as much muscular 

 debility exists in the digestive apparatus as well as in the voluntary mus- 

 cles. At this stage Kobinson advises a ball of 



Nux vomica 3 ss. to 3 i. 



Gentian, 



Ginger aa 3 ij. 



Linseed meal, 



Turpentine aa sufficient. 



