CHAPTER XVII 



DIGESTIVE DISTURBANCES 



CONSTIPATION 



Constipation is a symptom of various diseases, but particu- 

 lariy of those primarily affecting the digestive organs. The fecal 

 material is retained mostly in the large intestine. 



Like most digestive disturbances, it is due to errors in feeding 

 or watering. Other causes are constitutional weaknesses, mechan- 

 ical obstructions, and lack of general exercise. Concentrated feed 

 with little roughage, especially when given in excess, interferes 

 with digestion and causes constipation. 



Foals, in which this trouble is oftenest seen, strain, pass con- 

 siderable gas (flatulence), and show recurring attacks of colicky 

 pains. In them, as in older horses, the appetite is impaired. The 

 absence of peristalsis is a certain symptom. Constipation rarely 

 kills, but may lead to complications that endanger life. 



Treatment. — Regulate the diet and drink to suit the needs of 

 the animal. Fasting for a time and then providing food of a non- 

 irritating, easily digested character is all that is necessary in 

 cases of simple constipation. Rectal injections of warm water, 

 in which a little soap has been dissolved, are very useful in mild 

 cases of constipation, and may be easily given by the use of a rubber 

 tube attached to a funnel. A pint and a half of raw linseed oil is 

 a mild, gentle, and extremely valuable laxative and lubricant. 

 If much bloating is present, add 2 ounces' of turpentine to the oil. 

 Too drastic purgatives may cause a rupture of the bowel. Do not 

 expect immediate results from a physic given to relieve constipa- 

 tion. Herbivorous animals have a long, tortuous digestive canal 

 and large masses of food materials must be moved. 



IMPACTION 



Impaction is closely related to constipation. It arises from 

 feeding excessive amounts of foods rich in cellulose and wood fibers; 



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