METHODS OF BESTRAINT AND COMMON OPERATIONS 255 



The flesh of ridgling and entire male hogs immediately after 

 killing' has a decidedly unpleasant odor which reminds one of 

 the odor emitted by living boars. This odor is designated urine- 

 like or sexual. Although it gradually diminishes when the car- 

 cass is cooled, it again becomes noticeable as soon as the meat is 

 warmed in the process of cooking. The characteristic odor is 

 also accompanied by a similar bad taste. Meat of such animals 

 is not fit for food. 



SPAYING 



Spaying is performed to remove the ovaries (ovariotomy). 

 It is attended with the same danger that accompanies ridgling 

 castration. Mares are spayed to alleviate vices caused by dis- 

 eases of the ovaries. The animal should be carefully prepared 

 for the operation by having been kept on a scant diet for at least 

 twenty-four hours beforehand. There are many dangers incident 

 to the operation of ovariotomy, so none but a skilled veterinary 

 operator should attempt it. It may be said that an incision is 

 made in the wall of the vagina through which the ovaries are 

 removed. Cows and heifers are spayed through the flank for 

 the purpose of making them fatten more readily and produce a 

 better quality of beef. In the past sows were spayed, but it is 

 not considered necessary or profitable now. 



CATHETERIZATION 



The catheter is a tube-like instrument used to remove the 

 urine from the bladder. Catheterization is the operation of 

 passing the catheter. Resort is had to this method of relief 

 when the animal is unable to urinate. In the stallion and gelding 

 catheterization is more difficult than in the mare, whose urethra 

 is shorter and of greater diameter. Some trouble may be expe- 

 rienced when the point of the catheter arrives at the bend of the 

 male urethra where it curves over the ischial arch. By working 

 with the forefinger, and at the same time gently but firmly push- 

 ing the catheter upward the difficulty may be overcome. The 

 bladder of the mare may be emptied by pressing upon it with 

 the hand inserted in the rectum. The male bladder may also 

 be emptied in the same way but not so easily. 



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