226 The Diseases of Animals 



strong enough to sustain the weight well. The con- 

 dition is most frequently observed in heavy -bodied 

 puppies. The treatment for softening of the bone is 

 to give liberally of foods containing mineral matter, 

 such as meats, a little ground "green" bone, bran and 

 lime-water. Milk is also excellent. Especial atten- 

 tion should be given to keeping up the general health 

 of the animal. 



BRITTLE BONES 



Bones naturally grow more brittle with advancing 

 age, but abnormal brittleness may occur in young ani- 

 mals, — due to an abnormal amount of mineral matter. 

 The causes of this condition are not understood, but 

 it is generally believed to be due to some defect in 

 nutrition. Medicinal treatment does not seem to be 

 of benefit. The diet should be carefully looked after, 

 the bowels kept open, and the general health promoted 

 by a variety of food, fresh air, sufficient exercise and 

 sunlight. 



CARTILAGE TURNING TO BONE 



As animals grow old and the bone becomes brittle, 

 there is a tendency for the cartilage or "gristle" of the 

 body to ossify, or turn into bone. This condition some- 

 times occurs in young animals. There is little help for 

 it; the only treatment is to look carefully after the 

 animal's diet, and supply food and water that contain 

 little salts of lime. Rain-water is usually preferable to 

 well- or spring-water for this purpose. Bran and 

 animal foods should be avoided as much as possible. 



