POULTRY FOR PROFIT 183 



tissues of the muscles and joints, and is caused by 

 exposure to cold and dampness. The only treatment 

 is prevention by keeping the fowls in dry, well- 

 ventilated houses and on well-drained soil. 



Scaly Leg 



This disease is caused by a tiny mite which bur- 

 rows under the scales of the leg, raising the scales 

 and forming a powdery or spongy substance beneath 

 them. It is due to filthy yards and houses, but when 

 once introduced into a flock is passed from bird to 

 bird. 



Treatment. — A number of ointments and oils 

 have been used successfully. Before using any of 

 them the legs should be well brushed with warm, 

 soapy water. If they can be soaked for a short time 

 the scales will come off more easily. When as many 

 of the scales have been removed as can be taken off 

 without drawing blood, use one of the following : 



1. Balsam of Peru. 



2. One part oil of caraway mixed with five parts 

 vaseline. 



3. One part kerosene and two parts raw lin- 

 seed oil. 



When many fowls are to be treated, an easy 

 method which is recommended by Robinson is : Fill 

 a quart measure with the kerosene and linseed oil 

 mixture, go to the henhouse at night and dip both 

 legs of each infected bird in the liquid, holding them 

 there for a moment, and then allowing them to drip 

 before replacing them on the roost. 



If care is taken to keep infected birds out of the 

 flock this disease need never occur. 



Depluming Scabies 



The depluming mite is the cause of a sort of skin 



