202 DISEASES OF POULTRY. 



three classes; viz.,1, superficial sores; 2, corns ; 3, 

 deep bruises and abscesses. 



SUPERFICIAI, SORES. 



(Abrasions, Pricks, Cuts, Cracks, and Fissures.) 

 Such injuries are not very serious, but if the bird is 

 seen to be lame, and particularly if there is any heat 

 or swelling about the toes or foot, suitable measures 

 should be taken to make the bird comfortable and pre- 

 vent the development of a more dangerous condition. 

 If there is much inflammation indicated by heat and 

 swelling, hold the foot in water almost as warm as 

 the hand can bear for half an hour, adding hot water 

 from time to time to keep up the temperature. Before 

 the bird is released apply a small quantity of boric 

 acid ointment (boric acid 1 part, vaseline 5 parts,) 

 to the injured part. This ointment should also be 

 applied to abrasions, cuts, and cracks where the hot 

 water treatment is unnecessary, as it promotes rapid 

 healing. Confine the bird to a yard covered with soft 

 earth or young grass for a few days and do not allow 

 it to roost upon a perch until its feet are well. 



CORNS. 



The condition known as corns is an inflammation 

 and thickening of the skin on the under surface of the 

 foot, the result of prolonged pressure, irritation, and 

 bruises. Corns are generally caused by too small or 

 too narrow perches which compel the fowls to grasp 

 them tightly in order to maintain their position. This 

 firm grasp continued night after night affects the cir- 

 culation of the part of the foot that comes in closest 

 contact with the perch. More or less irritation and 

 inflammation is set up, which leads to multiplication 

 and enlargement of the cells of the part, and results 

 in swelling and thickening of the skin. A similar 



