2^6 DISEASES OF THE DOMESTIC ANIMALS 



Treatment. — The treatment for all forms of stomatitis is much 

 the same. Mel boracis is a very useful application by swab in 

 simple stomatitis. The food should always be soft and non-irritat- 

 ing. Potassium chlorate with a small dose of tincture of myrrh 

 may be given internally every four hours in considerable dilution. 

 The dose of potassium chlorate varies from three grains for puppies 

 to two drams for the larger animals. It acts locally and is elimi- 

 nated in the saliva. When there is ulceration, stronger antiseptics 

 are indicated, as i per cent, lysol applied upon a swab several times 

 daily; while the ulcers should be touched with either solid stick 

 silver nitrate or a strong solution (10 per cent.). Tincture of 

 iodine is another good agent with which to stimulate ulcers in the 

 mouth. 



A few drams of Glauber's salt and sodium bicarbonate may be 

 given to advantage in the food of larger animals. In the case of 

 sheep, 15 grains each of salt and sodium salicylate are to be dis- 

 solved in each pint of drinking water. Mercurial and other forms 

 of stomatitis are treated as recommended above with antiseptics, 

 and local stimulants when there is ulceration. Hydrogen dioxide 

 (y 2 strength) is perhaps the best local antiseptic for the mouth, 

 but is more expensive than boric solutions. All sources of local ir- 

 ritation must be removed, as foreign bodies in the mouth, sharp 

 or diseased teeth, and damaged or mouldy food. 



The disease is particularly prevalent among young animals 

 and hygienic precautions are indispensable. Plenty of fresh air, 

 cleanly surroundings and exercise should be allowed. The diet 

 must be very nutritious, as milk, raw eggs, and whiskey or brandy. 

 Segregation of the sick from the well is essential. In the case of 

 sheep, a common drinking and eating place is often the means of 

 contagion. Infection of the umbilicus in calves should be treated 

 by removing gangrenous tissue and packing with iodoform and 

 boric acid. 



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