DISEASES AND ABNORMALITIES. 15! 
Constipation—Retention of the Meconium. 
The meconium (intestinal contents), is generally 
expelled immediately after birth. When retained, it 
becomes an abnormal condition, and interferes with the 
function of various organs. The colostrum, being rich 
in albumin and salts, is Nature’s laxative for the getting 
rid of this material from the intestines, and should 
never be withheld from the young animal. 
Causes.—The condition is said to be observed in 
Foals whose dams have been fed exclusively on dry 
fodder during the winter. Also that the result is likely 
to follow when the mother has been worked right up 
to foaling time, her milk being then deficient in laxative 
properties. Depriving the young animal of the colos- 
trum. Calves are likely to suffer from similar causes. 
Symptoms.—\n the Foal, there is uneasiness, strain- 
ing, symptoms of colic, looks toward the flank, gets 
down and rolls, no inclination for the teat. Accelerated 
pulse and respirations, grinding of the teeth, and if 
relief is not given, death may take place from inflam- 
mation of the bowels. 
The Calf behaves similarly to the Foal. 
Treatment.—Prophylactic. The pregnant animal 
should receive proper aliment for some time previous 
to parturition. The young one ought to be allowed 
the colostrum (the first milk), or if this cannot be done, 
it should be given a dose of an oleaginous laxative, as 
castor oil, linseed oil (raw), sweet oil, etc. 
If any portion of the meconium is within reach of 
the finger, it should be carefully removed ; the finger 
should always be well lubricated. Enemas may have 
