DISEASES AND ABNORMALITIES. 153 



Constipation— Retention of the Meconium. 



The meconium (intestinal contents), is generally 

 expelled immediately after birth. When retained, it 

 becomes an abnormal condition, and Interferes with the 

 function of various organs. The colostrum, being rich 

 in albumin and salts, is Nature's laxative for the getting 

 rid of this material from the intestines, and should 

 never be withheld from the young animal. 



Causes. — The condition is said to be observed in 

 Foals whose dams have been fed exclusively on dry 

 fodder during the winter. Also that the result is likely 

 to follow when the mother has been worked right up 

 to foaling time, her milk being then deficient in laxative 

 properties. Depriving the young animal of the colos- 

 trum. Calves are likely to suffer from similar causes. 



Symptoms. — In the Foal, there is uneasiness, strain- 

 ing, symptoms of colic, looks toward the flank, gets 

 down and rolls, no inclination for the teat. Accelerated 

 pulse and respirations, grinding of the teeth, and if 

 relief is not given, death may take place from inflam- 

 mation of the bowels. 



The Calf behaves similarly to the Foal. 



Treatm,ent. — Prophylactic. The pregnant animal 

 should receive proper aliment for some time previous 

 to parturition. The young one ought to be allowed 

 the colostrum (the first milk), or if this cannot be done, 

 it should be given a dose of an oleaginous laxative, as 

 castor oil, linseed oil (raw), sweet oil, etc. 



If any portion of the meconium is within reach of 

 the finger, it should be carefully removed ; the finger 

 should always be well lubricated. Enemas may have 



