DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE ORGANS. 67 



muscular coats of the large bowels; and thickened walls sometimes two 

 or three inches in thickness. 



Symptoms. There is a rapid and very weak pulse; profuse perspi- 

 ration; severe and persistent pain, labored respiration, and a paleness of 

 the mucous membra.ne of the anus. A peculiar, anxious expression ex- 

 ists that, when once seen is always remembered to denote this disease. 

 Toward the last the horse sighs, breathes loudly, staggers and pitches 

 about, and dies in a state of delirium. They rarely live more than ten 

 or twelve hours, and often die inside of six. 



What to Do. The case has usually advanced so far, before noticed 

 that treatment is of no avail. The best common remedy is white-oak 

 bark tea given in large and frequent doses. Tannic acid, one dram or 

 fluid extract of ergot, one ounce is more desin.ble if at hand, and should 

 be given every half-hour till four or five doses have been administered. 

 Apply blankets to body, wrung out of HOT water, in which turpentine 

 has been sprinkled; mustard water should be applied with sharp rub- 

 bing to the legs. 



Peritonitis. This is an inflammation of the membrane lining the 

 cavity and covering the viscera contained in the cavity below or back of 

 the diaphragm, and known as the abdominal cavity. Peritonitis is 

 often caused by injuries to the abdomen such as wounds, blows, kicks, 

 and is still more common following the operation of castration. 



Symptoms. This disease is usually preceded by a chill; the animal 

 does not care to move, and if forced to do so, moves with a stiff or sore 

 gait; paws with front feet and may strike belly with hind ones; lies 

 down very carefully; stands most of the time; walks uneasily about. 

 Generally constipated. Pressure on belly, causes sharp pain, and the 

 horse will usually bite, strike, or kick at you if so used; the body is 

 tucked up; and the feet, legs, and ears are cold. Temperature reaches 

 102° to 104°. The pulse is almost enough in itself to determine the 

 disease; it is quickened, beating seventy to ninety times a minute, and 

 HARD and WIRY. 



What to Do. Treat similiar to enteritis. Powdered opium one or 

 two drams, with calomel, one-half dram, should be given every two, 

 three, or four hours. These constitute our main dependence in this dis- 

 ease. Extensive mustard plasters or even mild blisters over the belly 

 are very beneficial. Never give purgatives during the disease. Should 

 it be necessary to move the bowels it may be done by gentle enemas. 

 This is seldom necessary. 



