Chronic Metritis in the Mare 889 



sure the thorough cleansing of the cavity at each operation. The 

 flushing of the uterus should occur regularly as often as once a 

 day, and should be persevered with until success is obtained. 



Among disinfectants, i-iooo permanganate of potash solution 

 is highly efficient. We have had good results with a solution 

 consisting of carbolic acid, tannin, glycerine and water. We 

 have varied the strength of this solution according to circum- 

 stances, as related in the cases given below. It is important to 

 make the solution as strong as will be borne without irritating 

 the organ. It is well to remember that most disinfectants are 

 quickly absorbed, and their action ceases. In this respect iodo- 

 form offers special advantages. After cleansing the suppurating 

 cavity thoroughly with one of the foregoing disinfectants, a 

 gelatine capsule containing 5 or 10 grammes or more of powdered 

 iodoform may be carried with the hand into the cavity, opened, 

 and the powder scattered over the uterine floor. The specific 

 gravity of the iodoform causes it to drop into the folds and 

 irregularities of the mucosa, and prevents its being thrown out, 

 while its feeble solubility causes a continued action for a day or 

 more. At the same time it acts somewhat as a local anaesthetic, 

 and tends to prevent straining. 



When local treatment is begun, there frequently occurs an 

 increased systemic disturbance, due apparently to an accelerated 

 absorption of septic material. In order to counteract this it is 

 well to administer tonics and antiseptics, such as nux vomica and 

 iron, potassium iodide, hydrastis Canadensis, or other agents. 

 Still more important perhaps, especially if the pus seems more 

 fetid and abundant, the irrigations should be increased to two, 

 three or more times daily if essential to cleanliness. 



When the disinfection becomes effective there is decreased sup- 

 puration, any odor which may have been present disappears, 

 the discharge becomes more and more mixed with mucus, the 

 mucosa of the uterus becomes normal in consistency, the uterine 

 walls become active and approach each other so that they lie in 

 contact. 



The mare should be kept directly under the supervision of the 

 veterinarian from the beginning of the treatment to its success- 

 ful termination, and the handling should on no account be en- 

 trusted to an ordinarj^ layman. The treatment should not be 

 stopped or relaxed until the recovery is complete. By following 



