CONTAGIOUS BLOOD DISEASES. 



737 



Give when the strength appears to be flagging, 'or at regular in- 

 tervals. Gitfe a full dose of linseed oil, one to three pints, as may 

 be necessary, to move the bowels. 



Bleeding is of doubtful benefit, and we do not advise it. Care- 

 ful attention should be given to securing cleanliness and fresh air 

 for the patient and the herd. Remove all litter, and thoroughly 

 disinfect. 



EPIZOOTIC APHTHA, OR FOOT AWH MOUTH DISEASE. 



This highly contagious though rarely fatal febrile disease, has 

 prevailed in this country since its introduction in 1869 ; it has been 

 observed in cattle, sheep, and pigs. 



Fig. 959.— Epizootic Aphtha. Fig. 960.— Epizootic Aphtha. 



(Mouth affected.) (Feet affected.) 



The incubative period extends from twenty-four hours to three 

 or four days. The early symptoms are a shivering fit, succeeded by 

 slight dullness, staring coat, husky cough, elevated temperature, 

 with increased frequency, and hardness of pulse. There is a greater 

 flow of saliva, which becomes ro,py from mixture with mucus. (See 

 Fig. 959.) If the mouth be examined, vesicles, or blisters, will be 

 observed, varying in size from a pea to half a dollar. In some in- 

 stances they are found between the clefts of the hoofs, and on the 

 coronets, along the upper margin, and occasionally on the udder. 

 The blisters soon open and discharge their contents, leaving raw 

 and sensitive surfaces, which cause great pain. (See Fig. 960.) 



Mild cases require little treatment. While the mouth is sore, 

 give plenty of water, and food in liquid form ; an ounce of chlorate 

 of potash or borax may be added to each bucketful of water. The 

 feet should be kept clean, and washed frequently with one of the 

 following lotions :— 



Acetate of lead 1 oz. 



Carbolic acid 1 " 



Water , 1 qt. 



Or— 



