848 VETERINAEY HYGIENE 



litter substitutes like peat may be employed. The cows are 

 now left quietly by themselves, and the fattening animals in 

 stalls and hammels are given fodder, that which was in the 

 racks being spread over the ground and used as litter. 



When the weather admits, cows are always turned out 

 for an hour or so about mid-day, during which time they 

 are generally watered. 



An afternoon and evening feed is given to all animals in 

 the order previously mentioned. 



The important point illustrated is method and system. 

 The same thing must be done every day at the same time 

 and in the same order ; otherwise cattle become impatient 

 and lose condition. Whatever system of feeding is found 

 by experience to be the best, is the one to be followed ; a 

 scheme for the day's work becomes elaborated, and if the 

 best results are to be obtained it is followed with precision 

 and exactitude. 



In well-regulated herds the grooming of cattle is not 

 neglected. It is true that when the method of tying up 

 admits of it, the bovine does a liberal amount of skin 

 cleaning with the tongue ; this is a healthful and essential 

 exercise denied the animal when two are placed in one 

 stall, or tied up so short by the head as to be unable to 

 turn round. 



Grooming is probably more generally practised for show 

 cattle, but it should form part of the routine of all well- 

 conducted dairies, not only for the health and appearance 

 given the animal, but as a hygienic matter in connection 

 with milk-supply. Grooming enables the thighs, quarters, 

 belly, and udder to be kept clean. 



In this operation curry-comb and brush are used, not 

 during the time the animals are feeding, but in the interim. 

 Besides the body brush, wisps may be employed, and if the 

 cattle have been taught early to allow their feet to be 

 handled, these may be kept clean by washing. 



Among show cattle even periodical body washing with 

 water is practised, in order to get the hair and skin in fine 

 condition. 



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