34 Stable Management and the Prevention of Disease 



Bajra. 



A kiud of millet, called bajra, is given by natives to their 

 horses in many parts of the country, but never, so far as I 

 am aware, by Europeans. It is a small grain about one-third 

 the size of barley, has a very thin white skin, and is stated to 

 be wholesome food. 



Another sort of millet, called jowdr (Sorghum vulgare) is 

 also a good food. The mares of the Belooch tribes in the 

 Western Punjab receive scarcely any other grain, and perform 

 the severest marches upon it. 



Linseed. 



Linseed, called alsi or tisi, is a very useful food, given 

 occasionally as in England to horses in low condition. About 

 half a pound night and morning is sufficient for a horse of 

 average size. The best way to give it is to boil it until the 

 grains burst, using sufficient water to keep it covered ; then 

 stir in dry bran until it forms a stiff mass. In this state the 

 horse is obliged to masticate it to some extent, and thus mix 

 saliva with it. In the hot weather it ought to be boiled not 

 long before it is given, for if kept cool for some hours it will 

 turn sour. 



Lin seed- tea is often useful for sick horses. When making 

 it the linseed should not be boiled, because the oil which is 

 in the interior would be extracted, and might disgust the 

 patient. The proper way is to pour boiling-water over it in 

 the proportion of two gallons to one pound, then cover the 

 vessel containing it so as to keep in the steam, and let it 

 stand till cold. In this manner only the gelatinous coating 

 on the skin will be dissolved and diffused in the water, 

 forming an easily assimilated nourishment. 



Bkan. 



Bran, called chokar, should form part of the food of every 

 horse. It assists in keeping the bowels regular, and its 

 gently stimulating action upon them is communicated by 



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