CHAPTER XI 



THE NERVOUS SYSTEM 



Sunstroke and heat-stroke Paralysis 



Lightning stroke Chorea 



Epilepsy Cerebral hyperemia 



Eclampsia Parasites 



Diseases of the nervous system of the various domesticated animals 

 have not been sufficiently investigated for a good description to be 

 given of them. This is particularly true iia regard to diseases of th 

 nervous system in swine. 



Malformations of the brain or spinal cord are common in swine. 

 They are observed principally by the breeder and in small pigs, as 

 the majority of these malformations are of such a nature that the 

 affected animal dies soon after birth. Cranial and spinal clefts, witli 

 associated hernia of the meninges, brain, or spinal cord, are the most 

 . ommon deformities. 



Functional disturbances of the brain, such as delirium, are some- 

 times observed, but this condition is not common. It is usually the 

 result of organic disease of the brain, although it may be caused 

 by intestinal parasites. The affected swine champ their jaws, grunt, 

 run against the fence, posts, or similar objects, tremble, and may 

 even bite. When the cause is removed the animals make a speedy 

 recovery, although succeeding attacks may occur. 



Viciousness is closely associated with delirium. This condition is 

 dependent upon the nature and temperament of the animal and is 

 manifested by a desire to attack man or other animals. Vicious swine 

 bite, and boars use their tusks to inflict injuries, and are sometimes 

 successful in disemboweling their victim. Viciousness is inherited 

 or , acquired, and vicious swine should never be used for breeding 

 purposes. Viciousness is acquired by swine that are nervous. Such 

 swine soon become irritable, then vicious, as a, result of teasing or 

 brutal treatment. One instance is recalled of a nervous sow that 

 became vicious because the owner's son irritated and tantalized her 

 by catching her small pigs, carrying them squealing, around the pen. 



