CHAPTER XVI. 
DISEASES OF THE HEAD, COMB AND WATTLES. 
1. Frost Bites. 
Frost bites are commonly met with, especially among 
flocks of fowl not provided with sufficiently warm quarters 
or a scratching shed. Leghorns or other birds possessing 
a large comb are more likely to become frozen, more espe- 
cially when in poor condition. 
Symptoms. — The comb or wattles when frost bitten 
present a purplish appearance, being darker and more ap- 
proaching to black the more severely frozen. The general 
condition otherwise is apparently not affected. 
Treatment. — Place the fowl in a moderately warm place 
so that it is not exposed to direct sunlight. Apply a salve 
made of 
Coal Oil 3 dessertspoonfuls. 
Lard 2 dessertspoonfuls. 
Quinine 2 teaspoonfuls. 
If allowed to remain too long after being frozen before 
commencing treatment nothing can save the frozen parts 
from decay. If, however, the case is taken in time and 
properly treated as we have directed, decay may be pre- 
vented, the circulation restored and the parts brought back 
to normal conditions. 
2. Black Rot, Dead Comb. 
Causes. — The main cause of dead comb is a poor phys- 
ical condition resulting from improper care and poor diet. 
Symptoms. — The comb in the early stages of the dis- 
ease presents a slightly dark, purplish color usually com- 
mencing at the ends of the spikes. This color gradually 
becomes darker, finally becoming quite black as the disease 
progresses. The bird is weak, listless and in generally poor 
physical condition. 
Treatment. — The first attention should be directed to 
the general comfort of the bird by providing a warm, dry, 
clean, sunny place for it. Correct the improper diet by 
supplying grit, old plaster and vegetable food. Bathe the 
comb twice a day with lukewarm carbolic water (5 drops 
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