85 
MANUAL OF MODERN FARRIERY. 
thing is quite certain, that it is more common in the middle 
of spring or beginning of autumn. Some seasons it is 
epidemical, and horses in many different parts of the same 
district will be attacked by it; and it seems to prevail more 
when wet and cold weather sets in at those seasons, par¬ 
ticularly if it alternates from heat to cold. Many circum¬ 
stances have led to the belief that this complaint is 
infectious, and it is only proper to remove horses labouring 
under it to some distance from the others. 
Remedies. —Much skill is required in the treatment of 
this disorder, and it is necessary to study it with great 
attention before remedial means are attempted, whether by 
the veterinary surgeon or the owner of the horse. Fever 
is one of its earliest symptoms, which is rapidly succeeded 
by loss of strength. If at the first appearance the disorder 
is ascertained, bleeding should be immediately resorted to, 
but care must be taken not to overdo this. We can give no 
specific quantity, as this will depend upon the state of the 
febrile excitement. But we would recommend that it never 
should exceed four quarts, although, in most cases, from two 
to three will suffice. Always avoid taking as much as will 
produce faintness. Should the pulse become hard and 
rapid after the first bleeding, then it will be necessary to 
repeat it. And if coldness in the limbs, with redness of the 
mucous membrane of the nose ensue, more blood must again 
be taken, but the quantity should be limited. If with these 
symptoms weakness prevails, and the horse staggers, and if 
the inside of the nostrils present a livid hue, then bleeding 
would be prejudicial 
But whatever condition the animal is in, the bowels 
should be cleared out. The following purgative may be 
administered:— 
Barbadoes aloes . 2 drachms 
