DISEASES OF THE LOCOMOTORY ORGANS 



ARTICULAR AND MUSCULAR RHEUMATISM 



Articular and muscular rheumatism are so fre- 

 quently associated in this class of animals, that it is 

 best to discuss both at the same time. Although hogs 

 live under favorable conditions for the development 

 of rheumatism, they do not contract this disease as 

 often as some of the other domestic animals. This is 

 probably due to the abundance of fatty tissue and the 

 protection it affords the animal. 



Causes. — This disease is generally attributed to 

 cold, damp pens and exposure, but it may occur in 

 hogs that are well cared for. Overfeeding is also 

 said to cause it. Specific causes, unless it is in articu- 

 lar rheumatism, should not be considered in discuss- 

 ing this disease. At the beginning of an outbreak of 

 hog cholera, symptoms of a rheumatic character are 

 frequently noticed. 



Symptoms. — The symptoms are quite marked. 

 These are fever, loss of appetite, lameness, and a gen- 

 eral lack of condition. Sometimes large swellings ap- 

 pear in the region of the hock, knee, and joints of 

 the feet. If the muscles of the back are affected, the 

 loins and back are held stiff and arched, the muscles 

 are tender or sensitive when pressed on, and the 

 animal may be unable to move the hind parts. The 



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