DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 231 



valerian, cannabis indica, asafcetida, oxide of zinc, hyoscyamus, 

 belladonna, arsenic, strychnine, iron. 



CRAMP OP THE PATELLA MUSCLES. 



Give the synonym. 



Pemoral cramp. 



Define this condition. 



This is a functional nervous affection of the anterior crural 

 muscles principally, and characterized by tonic spasm of the 

 muscles with inability to extend the leg. 



What are the causes? 



Overwork, strains, irritability of the nervous mechanism of 

 these parts are among the principal causes. No doubt it may be 

 produced by toxins acting on the nerves of these parts. 



Give the symptoms. 



This condition appears suddenly, usually after standing. The 

 extremity is stiffened, it appearing longer than its fellow; there 

 is knuckling at the fetlock, the horse resting on the toe. It is 

 difficult for the animal to back and more difficult or impossible to 

 go forward; if so, the extremity drags, the toe or fetlock dragging 

 on the ground. 



What is the treatment? 



This condition, as a rule, readily yields to treatment. A 

 stimulating liniment applied to the stifle and rest for a few days 

 is about all required. 



In some cases a purge or laxative may be given. 



Feed on bran-mashes, grass, etc. 



CATALEPSIA. 



What are the synonyms? 



Catalepsy; hypnotism of muscles. 



Give the definition. 



This is a peculiar condition of a stiffening of the voluntary 

 muscles, characterized by a loss of power to contract the said 

 muscles. 



