DISEASES OF TBE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 179 



In reflex paralysis induced by Intestmal troubles, -worms, etc., proper 

 remedies are advised elsewhere. 



Poisons demand their antidotes, and loss of power occurring after acute 

 diseases suggests improved nutrition and nerve stimulants. If the impair- 

 ment of power has been gradual, and the disease is evidently chronic in 

 character, recovery is doubtful. 



An important indication in treatment is to improve the general health 

 of the animal as well as to restore power in the paralyzed parts. The 

 kennel arrangements should be unexceptionable, the diet generous, 

 digestible, and sustaining. Natural movements of the muscles should be 

 executed daily, and if walking is possible, gentle exercise is imperative. 



The medicinal agent to be depended upon as a nerve stimulant is 

 strychnine, and should be given In gradually increasing doses as advised 

 in chorea. Electricity is of great benefit In some cases, and should be 

 used to assist other means employed. 



While strychnine is the Important remedial agent, others should be ad- 

 ministered if their need is manifest. Quinine, iron, and cod liver oil are 

 demanded in many cases. 



TuTajvus. 



Tetanus is a disease manifested by continuous muscular spasm or rigid- 

 ity. In the majority of oases this affection is caused by a wound or local 

 injury of some kind. Exposure to cold and intestinal disturbances may 

 induce it; in poisoning by nux vomica and strychnia the convulsions are 

 tetanoid. The attack may be general or partial ; when partial it is mostly 

 confined to the neck and jaws, and hence the affection is known as lock- 

 jaw. The jaws are firmly shut by the rigid contraction of the muscles, 

 and the mouth cannot be opened by any force it would be prudent to em- 

 ploy. The angles are drawn and the lips are bathed in frothy saliva. 

 Often swallowing is impossible, owing to the throat being Involved. 



The muscles of the eyes and face are at times affected, giving rise to 

 hideous distortions. When tetanus is general the body and limbs are stiff 

 and immovable, the abdominal walls shrunken and rigid; respiratoiy 

 movements of the chest are restrained. The muscular spasm is persistent ; 

 but it occasionally subsides a little and then comes on again In fits of 

 greater violence. 



Death may result from exhaustion, the nervous system being worn out 

 by the violence of the spasm, or from suffocation, respiration being too 

 long suspended during a violent convulsion. In very rare Instances re- 

 covery takes place on the removal of the cause. 



