DISEASES OF THE LIVER AND SPLEEN. I05 



^ SPLENITIS. 



Disease of the spleen have been but little recognized in 

 canine pathology, save va. post-mortem examinations. Splenitis 

 usually occurs in connection with liver disease and intermit- 

 tent fevers. 



Youatt observes : — " In the cases that I have seen, the 

 earliest indications were frequent vomiting, and the discharge 

 of a yellow, frothy mucus. The animal appeared uneasy, 

 shivering, the ears cold, the eyes unnaturally protuberant, 

 the nostrils dilated, the flanks agitated, the respiration accel- 

 erated, and the mucous membranes pale. The best treat- 

 ment I know is the administration, twice in the day, of a ball 

 composed of a grain of calomel and the same quantity of aloes, 

 and 5 grains of ginger. 



" The dog frequently cries out, both when he is moved 

 and when he lies on his bed. In the course of three days the 

 yellow mucus is generally disappearing, and the expression of 

 pain is materially diminished. 



" If the bowels are much constipated after two days have 

 passed, 2 scruples of aloes may be given, and a grain of calo- 

 mel ; frequently injections may also be administered." 



Enlargement of the spleen may occasionally be both felt 

 and seen ; there is more or less pain on pressure, and consti- 

 pation and vomiting are generally present. The iodide of 

 potassium and iron in scruple doses twice daily, with relaxa- 

 tion of the bowels by aloes, is the best treatment I am aware 

 of. 



