208 THE HORSE IN HEALTH AND DISEASE 



per cent, of these it is said to occur on the inner side. Fortunately 

 the lameness resulting is very slight and transitory, or may not be 

 noticeable at all. Splints may be either single or double. The so- 

 called "pegged" split, a form in which the growth extends across 

 the posterior surface of the metacarpus, is more serious and inter- 

 feres with the play of the suspensory ligament. Splints causing 

 no lameness are considered to be blemishes only and require no 

 treatment. Others are treated according to the directions given 

 for spavin and ring-bone. 



OSTEOMALACIA 



Osteomalacia is a disease of mature animals arising from general 

 nutritional disturbances and causing an increased absorption of 

 lime salts from the bones. In America several outbreaks have been 

 observed among horses, especially in regions where soil conditions 

 were unfavorable and in dry years. 



Deficiency of available lime for the organism is the important 

 causative factor. Forage grown on soil lacking in phosphoric acid 

 and lime may contain less mineral substance than the animal 

 needs. As an exclusive ration it would be unsuitable. 



Digestive disturbances, a run-down condition, and hidebound 

 appearance are the first symptoms noticeable. Later the animal 

 develops anemia, a depraved appetite, and diarrhea. Lameness 

 occurs, which is usually erroneously diagnosed as rheumatism. 

 Swelhng of the face, a sjonptom of osteoporosis or "big head," a 

 disease closely allied to osteomalacia, is seen in advanced cases. 

 The bones of the limbs are subject to enlargements and deformities 

 from the deficiency in mineral matter. 



Osteomalacia is a chronic disease and lasts for months or years. 

 When treatment is instituted early good recoveries may be looked 

 for. The affected animals should be removed to another region 

 where soil conditions are better, or a change made in their feed. If 

 phosphorus is lacking, bean, pea, or clover hays are beneficial, for 

 they contain relatively large amounts of protein. Lime salts 

 should be added to the diet as in rickets. 



RICKETS 



Rickets affects young animals only, and is due to a disturbance 

 in metabolism. It is characterized by the persistence of the 



