DISEASES OP THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM. t^^ 



of the fourth stomach, which, he claims, is the original lesion. 

 Sudden changes of food, changing the sheep from a grass to a 

 dryer and less nutritious ration, astringent herbs in the pasture, 

 especially when the season is dry, also cause this condition. 



The omasum becoming filled with dry food, the leaves of 

 mucous membrane, of which its interior is composed, become 

 partially paralyzed, their movements and mucous secretions 

 ■cease, this being immediately followed by inflammation of the 

 organ, due to the irritation caused by the retention of its con- 

 tents. As a result of the inflammation, the contents become 

 dryer and the mucous membrane exfoliated from the folds, 

 causing a highly dangerous condition. 



Sjwptoms. 



The bowels may be natural or even loose in the first stages 

 of the disease. This is soon followed, however, by obstinate 

 constipation and fever. The sheep stands with a straightened 

 neck, the nose is hot and dry, the eyeballs stand out prominently, 

 the mouth is covered with a frothy, slimy discharge, the animal 

 will grunt frequently, cough is rarely present, which will assist 

 in not confounding this complaint with lung trouble, the respir- 

 ations become quickened, evidences of cerebral derangement ap- 

 pear, such as delirium and erratic violent motions, followed by 

 stupor. Exhaustion takes place rapidly and unless relieved the 

 sheep quickly succumbs. 



Creatment. 



Endeavor to soften the contents of the omasum. For this 

 purpose an oleaginous purge as indicated. 



Take. Barbadoes aloes J ounce 



Fluid extract belladonna leaves. . .^ drachm 

 Linseed oil 1 pint 



Mix and give as a drench. When drenching ruminants, 

 and it is desired to have the medicines reach the third and fourth 



