376 THE VETERINARY SCIENCE 
The cow usually lies down and a few minutes of severe 
straining is in natural delivery sufficient to force the calf 
from the vulva. 
The cleaning (placenta or after-birth) generally comes 
away at the time of delivery or soon after. 
II. DISEASES DURING PREGNANCY. 
1. Dropsy of the Womb. 
This is due to derangement of the afterbirth, and an 
over-abundant amount of fluid secreted in the calf. In 
some cases several palifuls collect in the womb. 
Symptoms. — The belly continues to get larger and larger 
until the cow seems almost as broad as she is long. On ac- 
count of so much fluid forming she becomes weak and has 
difficulty in getting up and walking around. 
Treatment. — There can be but little done in this disease 
only to keep the strength up. Give a teaspoonful of nitrate 
of potash or saltpetre in a mash every third day until she 
calves. This acts on the kidneys, which helps to get the 
water out of the womb. Feed plenty of good, strong, nour- 
ishing food to keep her strength up and she will be all right 
after calving 
2. Paralysis of the Hind Quarters. 
This disease is generally noticed in poorly-fed, unthrifty 
cows, especially if they are exposed to cold or wet. It is 
cansed by the calf in the womb pressing on the nerves that 
control the muscles of the hind quarters. 
Symptoms. — The cow appears healthy — is eating and 
chewing her cud, but is not able to rise on her hind quarters. 
Treatment. — Give half-pound doses of Epsom salts once 
or twice a week, according to the action on the bowels. Give 
the following powder: 
Ground Gentian Root Ya pound. 
Nitrate of Potash or Saltpetre Y4 pound. 
Powdered Nux Vomica ^ pound. 
Mix and give a tablespoonful in a slop twice a day. Give 
plenty of good food, keep her warm, have good bedding under 
her, and turn her from side to side twice a day until she 
calves, at which time she generally comes all right. Never 
attempt to put her in slings, just let her lie until she is able 
to get up. 
