174 BOVINE PATHOLOGY. 



confused with parturient apoplexy. It is apparently only 

 ordinary septicaemia, originating through lesions of the 

 genital organs, and, frequently, putrefactive decomposition 

 of genital products. Thus, it has been observed after abor- 

 tion, when laceration of the cotyledons of the uterus 

 occurs. Also it is associated with cases of retention of 

 foetal membranes, decomposition of the foetus, or the 

 introduction of instruments, hands of an operator, &c., 

 contaminated with septic matter. It generally appears 

 within a week after calving, and is almost always accom- 

 panied by metritis. The ordinary symptoms of this latter 

 affection are modified by the septicaemic condition. Ecchy- 

 moses take place on serous and mucous membranes. 

 Characteristic gangrenous ulcers and diphtheritic deposits 

 are to be seen in the vulva, vagina, and uterus. The 

 labia are swollen, tender, and from between them is dis- 

 charged a foetid brownish matter. Tympany, ascites, 

 and other complications appear. The temperature falls 

 very low, the pulse becomes imperceptible, and the respi- 

 rations very quick, and there is loss of power in the hind 

 limbs before death. 



Treatment. — Kemove from among other cows, for they 

 are liable to infection. Disinfect the discharges and hands 

 of the operator, remove the decomposing foetus or en- 

 velopes, and inject a solution of carbolic acid into the 

 uterus. Apply glycerin and carbolic acid directly to 

 any ulcers within reach. Stimulants must be administered 

 freely. Quinine has been highly recommended in such 

 cases. 



By some authors all forma of '' parturient apoplexy *' 

 are attributed to specific organisms. We are not assured 

 of this, however, and shall see that our best authorities 

 are not of this opinion. 



Here we ought to notice that a Septic Mammitis of 

 contagious character is recorded by continental observers. 

 Professor Diekerhoff investigated an outbreak in Olden- 

 burg ('Veterinary Journal/ viii, 335). It commenced in 

 1873 and '' still continues/^ It commences in the teats, and 

 the inflammatory action extends thence into the milk 



