COMMON AILMENTS OF THE HORSE 



423 



Indigestion. — This /' one of the most common ailments 

 of the horse. It is br ught about by feeding indigestible 

 food, improper feeding, hard work immediately after feed- 

 ing or watering, and any cause that profoundly disturbs 

 the system. It may occur in either mild or acute form. 

 In mild attacks the animal refuses his food, lies down and 



FIG. 184.— SHIRE MARE "WYDERLANDS SUNSHINE" 



immediately gets up, looks toward his flanks, and often 

 paws the ground. In such cases but little treatment is 

 necessary. Feed a light laxative diet such as bran mash 

 and fresh grass, and allow the digestive system to rest 

 a few days. Two-ounce dose of Jamaica ginger in a pint 

 of moderately hot water, given as a drench three times 

 daily, is excellent. 



In acute cases the causes and symptoms are similar, 

 but the pain more severe. The horse may stand 

 stretched out and strain, as if trying to pass urine, then 

 lie down and get up, look at the flanks and paw as before. 

 The care and treatment is the same as in mild cases, 



