Dropsy 407 
DROPSY 
Dropsy is known by the collecting of watery fluid in 
some part of the body, either in a vavity, as the abdomen, 
or by infiltration into the tissues. Usually dropsy is 
due to a weakened circulation, or to general debility. 
There is swelling of the part without inflammation 
or particular pain. If the fluid is in a cavity, the fact 
is readily determined by the enlargement and its watery 
contents. When the fluid infiltrates into the tissues, 
there is pitting of the part on pressure, the pits remain- 
ing for some time after the pressure is removed. The 
circulation in the part is usually poor, and the region 
is colder than normal. 
A mild dropsical condition is commonly called 
“stocking” or “stocks.” In this case the horse’s legs 
swell, usually after standing in the stable during the 
winter season. The swelling disappears on driving or 
exercise, but returns on standing. 
The first thing to be done is to restore the circulation 
in the part. In some cases this can be accomplished by 
removing some abnormal pressure that interferes with 
the blood supply. Hand-rubbing, bathing with hot 
water and gentle exercise are good. Some medicine 
should be given to stimulate the kidneys to carry away 
the excess of fluid, such as saltpeter in ounce doses for 
an adult horse once daily for three or four days. A 
variety of nutritious laxative food, to nourish the ani- 
mal and keep the bowels open, is important. Tonic 
condition powders in the feed are excellent. The aim is 
to bring the animal to a vigorous condition. 
