Feeds for the Horse. 305 



had previously been fed millet. Experiments were made in 

 feeding millet hay to a nnmber of horses for the purpose of 

 studying its effect. The following statement relative to one 

 test seems quite conclusive:' "By feeding her (a mare) millet 

 (hay) for about three months, she would become so lame in the 

 joints of the hind legs that it was almost impossible for her to 

 walk, and on discontinuing the feeding of millet she would grad- 

 ually recover, until at the end of three or four months she would 

 again be in normal condition. As soon as that condition was 

 reached, would again feed millet untU the mare was in such a 

 condition that she could scarcely stand, then again quit feeding 

 millet. We have alternated with millet and other hay, produc- 

 ing the conditions referred to at will, for nearly two years. In 

 the meantime the horse has suffered in condition and does not at 

 all resemble her former self. She is valueless as far as work is 

 concerned, and is only kept for experimental purposes. We are 

 able at any time to demonstrate the effect from feeding millet, by 

 allowing her to have millet exclusively as coarse food for a por- 

 tion of two months." Letters sent to veterinarians, farmers and 

 others in the state brought replies which showed that ill residts 

 had quite generally been observed from the use of millet, mani- 

 fested usually by increased action of the kidneys. The bulletin con- 

 cludes: " Our experiments have thoroughly demonstrated that 

 millet, when used entirely as a coarse food, is injurious to horses: 

 First, in producing an increased action of the kidneys. Second, 

 in causing lameness and swelling of the joints. Third, in produc- 

 ing infusion of blood into the joints. Poui'th, in destroying the 

 texture of the bone, rendering it softer and less tenacious, so that 

 traction causes the ligaments and muscles to be torn loose." 



It is remarkable that millet, one of the oldest known plants, 

 and one that is used so extensively in various countries, should 

 fall under this serious charge. Possibly hay from the plant is 

 injurious in some districts while harmless elsewhere, or in some 

 years it may prove deleterious while usually safe for feeding. 

 Having been put on his guard, the horseman will use millet with 

 caution, awaiting further reports from the investigators. It should 



» Bui. 26, N. Dak. Sta. 

 20 



