268 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR. 
CALVING AND FLOODING. 
Though calving is purely physiological, it may lead to more or less 
serious consequences if the cow is not properly treated. She should be dry 
for about a month before calving, which will be in about nine months after 
impregnation. This will allow an adequate nourishment for the calf and 
lessen any tendency to milk-fever or inflammation of the udder. If she is 
poor, she should be dry for more than 2 month. During such a period food 
should be given oftener, but in less quantities. For a few days before calving 
one will notice quick breath, groans, uneasiness, rapid enlargement of the 
udder and dropping of the belly, and a discharge of mucus from the vagina. 
Restlessness increases, the cow often lying down, when pains will come on, 
with the expulsion of the calf. The after-birth generally comes away at 
once, but may remain several hours and threaten serious results. As a prep- 
aration for delivery, feed sparingly of mashes and hay for a few days, and 
frequently strip the udder if it is swollen and hard. Afford a roomy, well- 
ventilated place, without superfluous litter, but with comfortable bedding. If 
any serious consequences are feared, put adequate covering on the animal 
immediately after delivery. If fever ensues after calving, give aconite. 
Pulsatilla should be administered two or three times a day if the after-birth 
‘does not come away soon after delivery. If it remains in spite of the pul- 
satilla, call a veterinary surgeon to remove it. 
“ Flooding ” is a term applied to an unusually full discharge of blood 
after delivery. It is caused by a lack of proper contraction of the womb, 
or by injuries sustained in assisting a difficult parturition. If at this time 
there be a violent straining and great flow of blood, give secale every 
three or four hours, and pulsatilla may be alternated with it. If an injury 
has been the cause, give arnica three or four times daily. Keep the cow 
quiet, with the hind quarters elevated a little. Inject cold water into the 
rectum, and for a short time apply at intervals to the loins some cloths 
soaked in cold water. This will contract the blood-vessels. 
INFLAMMATION OF THE WOMB. 
Inflammation of the womb is caused by difficult labor in calving, and 
by cold. 
Symptoms.—Discharge of mucus and blood; fruitless efforts to pass 
urine; swollen bearings; loss of appetite; cold feet and ears. 
TREATMENT.—At first bryonia alternated with aconite every two 
to four hours will be beneficial. After the fever, if swelling of the bear- 
ings and straining remain, give sabina, For difficult urination and pain in 
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