176 Zoological N. Y. Zoological Society. [I; 9 



species of wild animals. This, and similar facts are of the greatest 

 importance in the diagnosis of disease and in the recognition of its 

 significance. 



History. 



Before making an examination of a patient, the history of the 

 case is obtained from the keeper. This is very important. Upon 

 this feature alone a fairly safe diagnosis may often be made by the 

 experienced observer. It is important to know something of the 

 origin and development of the disease. The cause of a disease is 

 important, not only in forming a diagnosis, but also in connection 

 with treatment; therefore it should be carefully sought. The char- 

 acter of the food and water, the temperature of the building and the 

 care that the animal has received should all be inquired into closely. 



The examination of the sick animal may be general and special. 

 The former refers to symptoms which involve the whole organism, 

 the latter considers the single organs of the body, the secretions 

 and excretions. 



In making a general examination the following points should 

 be observed: 



1. The physical condition of the patient. 



2. The constitutional and nutritive condition. 



3. The mucous membranes and the skin. 



4. The respiration, temperature and pulse, when the two latter 

 may be obtained without causing undue excitement. 



4. The position of the animal when lying down is to a certain 

 extent a diagnostic symptom; very sick animals will not rise when 

 approached. Animals that are affected by lateral or one-sided dis- 

 eases of the chest — lateral pneumonia or pleurisy — most frequently 

 lie on the affected side; while those cases where there is ditlicult 

 or labored respiration, as in double pneumonia or fluid in the chest, 

 remain standing with the forelegs well spread, or they assume a 

 sitting position. 



The constitutional condition may depend, to a large extent, on 

 the age of the animal, length of time in captivity, how it has been 

 fed, and the amount of exercise it takes; but as a general rule if the 

 animal is in poor condition, it is usually due to the presence of some 

 disease. The skin, to a certain extent, is a good diagnostic guide; 

 if the animal enjoys good health the skin will be loose and easily 



