DISEASES OF THE URINARY ORGANS. 123 



jury may be better ascertained by observing whether there is sprain of 

 the loins, stone, or tumour of the bladder or urethra. 



Treatment. Since the disease is mainly due to direct injury, the 

 cause should be removed if possible, and then general and local syptics 

 should be applied. Irritants in the food must be avoided; if from sprain, 

 give it proper treatment; if stone in the bladder or urethra it should be 

 removed. Give freely of slippery-elm or linseed tea, and doses of the 

 following : three drams of tincture of chloride of iron; one-half dram of 

 the acetate of lead; one-half dram of tannic acid; or one ounce of the oil 

 of turpentine. If the bloody discharge is considerable in quantity apply 

 cold water to the loins and keep the animal very quiet. 



Acute Inflammation of the Kidneys or Acute Nephritis. 

 The inflammations of the kidneys have been variously divided according 

 to their varying symptoms and conditions, but for ordinary utility it is 

 sufficiently extended to divide into ACUTE and chronic. 



Causes. The causes of inflammation of the kidneys are varied and the 

 congestion may be the result of any of the following : 



1. Altered and irritant products passing through the kidneys during 

 inflammation of other organs, and during fevers. The inflammation 

 may last during the existence of the cause, or may continue and become 

 aggravated. 



2. The blood-pressure being thrown back on the veins and kidneys a? 

 a result of heart disease. 



3. The escape of urine from the kidney being prevented by disease of 

 the ureter or bladder, thereby causing increased fullness in the pelvis and 

 tubes of the kidney. 



4. When urine is detained in the kidneys from any cause, it becomes 

 decomposed and produces ammonia and irritants. 



5. The advance of bacteria from the bladder to the kidney through 

 the ureter. 



6. The receiving into the body with hay or other fodder acrid or irri 

 tating plants, including fungi. 



7. The absorption of cantharidine from a surface blistered by Spanish 

 flies, (cantharides); the reckless giving of diuretics; the presence of cal- 

 culi (stones) in the kidney; exposure to cold and wet; and blows on the 

 loins or sprains. 



8. Liver disorders which throw on the kidneys the work of excreting 

 irritating products. 



