IMPACTION OF THE CROP IN BIRDS. 195 



IMP ACTION OF THE CROP IN BlRDS. 



Our domestic fowls are very liable to an enormous disten- 

 tion of the crop by food which, in the absence of secretion, 

 and from the quantity accumulated, becomes hard and in- 

 capable of being moved from the distended cavity. The fowl 

 lingers on without appetite, and manifesting great dulness, 

 torpor, and progressive emaciation. Death soon puts an end 

 to the case, and then alone, in the majority of instances, the 

 enormous crop indicates the nature of the fatal malady. 

 The crop in these cases, as shown in the subjoined engraving> 



Fig. 32. 



is so large as. to render it a mystery how the condition may 

 at any time escape detection. 



Treatment In mild cases, this consists in pouring tepid 

 water in the gullet, and manipulating the crop so as to soften 

 its contents and press them back through the mouth or on- 

 wards into the stomach. In severe cases, no hesitation 

 should be experienced in making a bold incision, evacuating 

 the crop, and drawing the lips of the wound together by 

 silver wire suture. The fowl must then be fed for a few 

 days on materials which do not need to lodge in the crop, in 

 order to be prepared for the action of the guizzard, and well 

 broken down meat with sloppy bread and milk, are the best 

 forms of food for it. 



