QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS 269 



Average composition of mare 's milk is as follows : 



Water 91.8 



Solids 8.2 



Albumen 2.6 



Fat 6 



Lactose 4.7 



Salts 3 



What is colostrum? Give the composition of colostrum. 



Colostrum is the first fluid secreted by the mammary gland after 

 delivery. Its average composition is as follows : 



Water 75.8 



Albumen and casein 15.0 



Fat 2.6 



Lactose 3.6 



Salts 3.0 



Pregnancy 



Describe the physiologic and anatomic modifications that the uterus 

 undergoes while the foetus is developing. 

 The uterus assumes a somewhat oblong or globular form. Its 

 mucosa becomes redder, thicker, more pulpy and vascular. The 

 serous coat also hypertrophies and the fibres of the muscular coat 

 increase in number and volume. The uterus, at this time, is more 

 sensitive to nervous stimuli. The increase in volume and weight 

 causes it to descend and rest upon the abdominal floor. The os 

 uteri is firmly closed by the contraction of the circular muscular 

 fibres of the cervix and is sealed with an albuminoid clot. As par- 

 turition time approaches, the os relaxes and, when labor begins, 

 dilates widely. 



State what changes take place in the generative organs of the female 

 after conception. 



See answer to preceding question. 



In addition to the changes in the uterus, a true corpus luteum 

 forms in the ovaries, and the mammary glands become activated. 



What precautions should be taken in regard to the care and food of 



pregnant animals? 



They should be regularly exercised and well fed on easily 



digested nutritive food which does not constipate. Plenty of pure 



water is essential. They should be well groomed and provided 



with clean and commodious quarters, especially as parturition 



