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DISEASES OF CATTLE. 



days. The approach of parturition is indicated some time before the 

 event is consummated, by various signs. The first important sign 

 is the enlargement of the udder, which may be sudden, and is always 

 considerable. At the same time the vulva becomes swollen, the lips 

 are thickened and lengthened, and the membrane assumes a deeper 

 color. The vagina secretes a copious, yellowish fluid, which some- 



times hangs from the vulva in long, ropy masses. A dropping of 



the abdomen may be noticed, the spine falls, as if yielding to the 



heavy weight of the abdomen, the flanks become hollow, the 



haunches appear wider apart, and the animal walks awkwardly and 



unwillingly. As the hour of delivery draws nearer, these symptoms 

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