112 



the breathing becomes quickened and he soon shows signs of exhaus- 

 tion. In many instances the animal keeps up strength and appearances 

 moderately well, but in other cases the appetite is lost, flesh gradually 

 disappears, and the horse becomes emaciated and debilitated. It is ac- 

 companied by a cough, which in some cases is a husk^', smothered, or 

 muffled excuse for a cough, while in other cases the cough is hard and 

 clear. A whitish matter is discharged from the nose, which may be 

 curdled in some instances. If the ear is placed against the chest be- 

 hind the shoulder blade, the rattle of the air passing through themucus 

 can be heard within. It is stated that the right side of the heart may 

 become enlarged to such an extent that it is easily felt beating by plac- 

 ing the hand against the chest behind the right elbow. 



Treatment. — Generally the horse is kept at work when he is affected 

 with this form of bronchial trouble, as the owner says "he has only a 

 deep cold. " It is true that some authorities express the opinion that 

 work does no harm, but they are mistaken. Rest is necessary, if a cure 

 is desired, as even under the most favorable circumstances, a cure is 

 difficult to effect. The animal can not stand exertion, and should not 

 be compelled to undergo it. Besides, there is a great probability of 

 acute bronchitis supervening at any time. 



The animal should have much the same general care and medical 

 treatment prescribed for the acute form ; if material benefit has not 

 been derived give the following : Powdered nux vomica, 3 ounces ; 

 powdered arsenic, 70 grains; powdered sulphate of copper, 3 ounces; 

 mix together and divide into thirty-four powders. Give a i)owder mixed 

 with bran and oats every nigbt and morning. An application of 

 mustard ap])lied to the breast is a beneficial adjunct. If all other treat- 

 ment fails, try the following combination, recommended by a good au- 

 thority: Hydrocyanic acid (Scheele's strength), 20 minims; nitrate of 

 potassium, 3 drams ; bicarbonate of soda, 1 ounce ; water, 1 pint. This 

 dose should be given every morning and evening for one or two weeks, 

 if necessary. 



The diet should be the most nourishing. Bad food is harmful at 

 any time, but especially in this disease. Avoid bulky food. Linseed 

 mashes, scalded oats, grass and green-blade fodder, if in season, is the 

 best diet. 



THE LUNGS. 



The lungs are the essential organs of respiration. They consist of 

 two (right and left) spongy masses, commonly called the " lights," 

 situated entirely within the thoracic cavity. On account of the space 

 taken up by the heart, the left lung is the smaller. Externally, they 

 are completely covered by the pleura. The structure of the lung con- 

 sists of a light, soft, but very strong and remarkably elastic tissue, 

 which can only be torn with difficulty. The lung of the foetus 

 which has never respired will sink if placed in water, but after the 



