78 DISEASES OF SWINE 



rupture or scrotal hernia. However, when pressed 

 on with the fingers, the movement of the fluid in the 

 sack enables the examiner to determine the difference 

 between these two conditions. 



Treatment.^-In most cases treatment is unneces- 

 sary, as the disease does not interfere in any way 

 with the animal's health. If treatment is desirable, 

 the fluid can be drawn off with an aspirating syringe 

 and tincture of iodine injected into the cavity. This 

 operation must be performed under aseptic .condi- 

 tions in order to prevent germs from entering the 

 part. In some cases it is advisable to castrate the 

 animal. Where this condition follows castration, all 

 that is necessary is to dissect out the sack. 



INFLAMMATION OF THE PREPUCE OR SHEATH 



This condition is ustially caused by the secretions 

 and dirt accumulating in the sheath and. its side folds. 

 The irritation caused by the dirt inflames the lining 

 membrane, and the glands in the part secrete more 

 actively. Infection from pus germs usually follows, 

 and the tissues become badly inflamed if not treated 

 promptly. 



Symptoms. — The symptoms are usually local, and 

 confined to the region of the sheath, or prepuce. The 

 tissues become swollen, painful, and hot, and when 

 badly swollen there may be some difficulty in passing 

 urine. The animal seems to suffer some pain. When 

 the swelling is pressed on, it causes the hog pain, 

 and a disagreeable-smelling fluid-like substance, often 

 cheesy in character, may be forced oiit. In case the 



