130 THE GOLDFISH AND ITS CULTURE, 
to which the fish are subject, originate from improper meth- 
ods of feeding, and always manifest themselves in disturb- 
ances of the stomach, and other digestive organs. 
Again there are diseases that make their appearance peri- 
odically, the origin of which is involved in as much obscurity 
as that called “ pink-eye,” which attacks horses, and of which 
all have heard more or less, 
ASPHYXIA. 
This affection is the most commonly met with. The fish 
become weak, the colors fade away rapidly, the appetite is 
lost and the fish finally die if the disease is permitted to 
run its course without hinderance. 
The cause of the disease may be looked for in the inter- 
rupted functions of the gills. These organs become inflamed 
by the irritating and poisonous gases that may exist in the” 
water, or by the sudden changes of temperature in the same. 
If the disease has not already advanced too far, the ailing 
individual or individuals should be taken from the collection, 
placed in a vessel containing a sufficient quantity of water, 
and in which a number of flourishing aquatic plants are 
growing. 
An even teaspoonful of common salt is then dissolved in 
the water, the whole then put in a light, well ventilated place, 
and kept at a temperature between 7o° and 80° F. During 
the first few days no food is necessary, and should not be 
given, after which the feeding may be re-commenced, begin- 
ning with very small quantities, administered at a regular 
hour each day. As the fish brighten up, and approach con- 
valescence, the quantity may gradually be brought up to the 
usual amount. 
