THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 379 



when the controlling influence of the cerehrum is sus- 

 pended, the peculiar functions of the spinal marrow are 

 exercised, not only in a disorderly, but also in an un- 

 usually energetic manner" (Watson). Thus, the symptoms 

 of an epileptic fit are, after a premonitory dulness, a 

 sudden loss of brain power, as denoted by the animal 

 staggering and falling, and remaining for a shorter or 

 longer time in a state of unconsciousness. Convulsive 

 movements of the limbs, which are outstretched and 

 shivering, of the respiratory and ocular muscles, and 

 of those of mastication, are very marked. There is froth- 

 ing at the mouth and involuntary passage of faeces and 

 urine. Finally, the convulsions cease and the animal 

 rises, and shortly seems again in a healthy state. 



Treatment must be palliative, and directed to the pro- 

 duction of blood in greater quantity and of a better quality, 

 and also to ensuring its regular supply to the head. In 

 young stock this diseased condition is most frequently seen. 

 Since, in the majority of cases, there is a deficient supply of 

 blood to the head, bleeding must not be performed. A 

 cathartic will prove useful in removing any irritant from 

 the alimentary canal. As soon as possible animals which 

 have once suffered in this way should be sent to the 

 butcher. Cases of epilepsy in the ox are rare. 



Apoplexy is the reverse condition, in so far as blood 

 supply goes, to that which is observed in most cases of 

 epilepsy, being attributable to an over-distension of the 

 encephalic vessels with blood, and a giving way of their 

 walls, thus undue pressure is exerted upon the brain 

 by extravasated blood. Similar symptoms also may be 

 seen when sudden pressure results from bursting of an 

 accumulation, and other influences similar in their nature. 

 Plethora is the most fruitful predisposing cause. The 

 conditions of life of the ox especially tend to render him 

 plethoric, and when he is over-driven or excited during 

 hot weather apoplexy is apt to occur. 



Symptoms. — Some slight dulness may at first be present, 

 but generally the animal is noticed to fall suddenly, with 

 complete loss of sensibility, consciousness, and power of 



