310 BOVINE PATHOLOGY. 



The muffle becomes involved in certain exanthemata, 

 for it may be the seat of eruption. Its condition is a useful 

 but not infallible guide in determining the health of the 

 animal, since during fever it becomes dry. The pro- 

 trusible tongue is capable of removing excess of moisture 

 from this organ and the nostrils. The anterior naris is 

 less liable to laceration than that of the horse. The 

 Schneiderian membrane, as seen through it, is of a red- 

 dish colour, but varies much in shade and humidity with 

 the state of the health. 



Catarrh — Flux from the nostrils — is due either to conges- 

 tion or inflammation of the Schneiderian membrane. Also, 

 as a rule, the lining membrane of the nasal sinuses and 

 those of the pharynx and larynx are, to a certain degree, 

 involved. Is most frequent in spring, when east winds 

 are prevalent, and when animals are suddenly exposed to 

 extremes of wet and cold after having been accustomed to 

 shelter. It may arise from dampness of the byres in 

 which cattle are kept, or exposure to draughts. Animals 

 debilitated by previous disease are especially prone to this 

 disorder. It is more frequent in young beasts than old, 

 and sometimes is attributable to the " dust and gravel 

 of the road" (Youatt). It may be due to certain 

 specific conditions of the atmosphere, when it assumes an 

 epizootic or enzootic form (see Influenza). Then it is 

 excessively debilitating, and under ordinary conditions it 

 reduces the strength of the patient, and on this account 

 as well as because it is often a forerunner of more serious 

 disorder, it is important, and requires prompt and 

 judicious treatment. 



Symptoms. — In some cases simply a discharge from the 

 nostrils, with dulness, but generally slight fever, is 

 present, with the usual signs of ill health. The Schnei- 

 derian membrane is reddened and turgid. At first dry, it 

 soon gives a watery discharge, which later becomes of 

 a thick mucous character, and afterwards muco-purulent. 

 Sneezing is generally present, as also is cough, which is 

 especially marked when there is sore throat, as denoted by 

 pain on manipulation, swelling, and difficulty in swallowing. 



