CHAPTER IV. 



Poultry Materia Medica. 



It is the purpose of this chapter to give an account of the 

 drugs and remedies which the poultryman will find it well to 

 be supplied with ; directions for making various solutions ; tables 

 of weights and measures and the like. 



THE MEDICINE CHEST. 



The following drugs and medicines will be found useful to 



have at hand. 



Calomel (subchloride of mercury).— "This is a very useful 

 alterative medicine for fowls, i grain pills frequently having a 

 good effect on the liver. When given it should be followed in 

 two hours by a dose of castor oil. Some authorities oppose the 

 use of mercury in any form for poultry, but there have been 

 numerous cases when it has produced good results." (Brad- 

 shaw.) 



Cayenne. — "Is considered to be an excellent liver stimulant 

 when given in small quantities. In cases of colds it is also use- 

 ful, and forms one of the ingredients in the spices so much used 

 to stimulate winter laying." (Bradshaw.) 



Catechu. — "In powder or tincture form, in combination with 

 powdered chalk, is a good remedy for diarrhea. The average 

 dose of powdered catechu is from 2 to 5 grains, and of the tinc- 

 ture from 2 to 5 drops." (Bradshaw.) 



Castor oil. — "Although apparently paradoxical, this is one of 

 the best remedies for diarrhea. The latter is frequently due to 

 some foetid matter in the intestines ; a dose of oil will usually 

 remove this, and often diminish the diarrhea. It is also used 

 in cases of crop-bound fowls. A teaspoonful poured down the 

 throat, and the mass kneaded with the fingers, and then warm 

 Avater poured down will soften the matter, and frequently eflfect 

 a cure." (Bradshaw.) 



Bpsom salts (magnesium sulphate). — "Is one of the simplest, 

 cheapest, and most effective poultry-yard drugs. It is useful in 



