424 THE VETERINARY DOCTOR. 
OBSTRUCTION OF THE RUMP-GLAND. 
The rump-gland secretes the oil for the anointing of the feathers. It 
may be doubted whether it ever suffers any disorder other than the itching 
which results from its obstruction in constipation, and which causes the 
bird to peck and rub it with the beak more than it does when merely oil- 
ing its feathers. If cases of obstruction occur, soften the gland well with 
tepid water and squeeze it out, but do it very gently, since carelessness or 
rudeness may kill the bird, and will certainly irritate the gland. 
SORES ON THE FEET AND EYES. 
If ulcers appear on the feet from dirt sticking to them, thoroughly 
sofien the feet with tepid water until the dirt comes off. Then put twelve 
to fifteen drops of strong tincture of arnica into a glass of water and apply 
some of it two or three times a day witha feather. Stronger dilutions of 
arnica may be used on larger birds. Clean cages and proper food are efficient 
preventives. 
The eyes may become sore from filth in the cage, and need the same 
treatment as is given for sores on the feet, The juice of red beets is 
recommended, both as a drink and as an external application. 
LOSS AND EXCESS OF FLESH. 
The use of unnatural food deranges the digestion and causes the bird 
to disgorge its food, ruffle its feathers, and rapidly lose flesh. Restore the 
required food and tone up the system by putting a rusty nail in the drink- 
ing-water for a few days. 
A bird may become fat if it has too much or too stimulating food. The 
treatment consists in resorting to a simpler diet, including small quanti- 
ties of ant’s eggs, and avoiding the fat-producing articles. A mistaken 
fondness too often prompts one to pamper birds until they grow fat and 
dull, and thus indisposed to song and vivacity. 
PAIRING FEVER. 
By this is meant a condition in the spring, when the inclination to pair 
is the most marked, in which a bird ceases to sing, is drooping in spirits, 
grows thin, ruffles its feathers, and possibly dies. Remove the female from 
sight and put the male in acooler place. The normal spirits and health 
will soon retura, and no additional care will be needed. 
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