240 AMERICAN CATTLE. 



" The subject of mental influence has been here considered 

 without reference to any inquiry into the specialities of its opera- 

 tion. But were such an inquiry to be entered on, it would be 

 proper to make such experiments as should exhibit how far the 

 influence in question may operate — first, at any time prior to the 

 period of sexual connection, — secondly, at the time of such con- 

 nection, — and thirdly, during pregnancy. The modes of devising 

 and conducting experiments of this kind, will readily suggest 

 themselves to any one conversant in these matters." 



OCCASIONAL BAKBENNESS IN THE COW. 



It sometimes occurs that heifers, or cows which have been 

 kept in high condition, do not readily conceive, although they 

 come regularly in heat at the proper times, and are properly 

 served by the bull. If they continue refractory, the better way 

 is to reduce their flesh by low keep, and plenty of exercise. 

 Turning them into short pasture, is the best way during the 

 grazing season, and short keep in winter may reduce them. 

 They seldom fail to breed under such treatment. If they still 

 prove unfruitful, a drenching dose of mild physic is advisable, (as 

 glauber salts,) which is usually efi'ective, and harmless. Some- 

 times, after receiving the bull, they will pass weeks, or months, 

 without showing signs of heat, and then seek him as before, 

 without any signs, meantime, of abortion. This however, is 

 seldom the case, unless the cow, or heifer, be in high condition. 

 To make sure and constant breeders, it is a better course to keep 

 them only in good flesh, without forcing. They are uniformly 

 healthier under such treatment, as it is a more natural condition, 

 and the calves are better than from over-fed, or highly pam- 

 pered cows. 



Barrenness in high bred cows, is a serious matter to the owner, 

 or breeder. "With common, or grade cows it is of less conse- 

 quence, as the unfertile ones can be readily turned off for beef, 



