REPORTS OF CASES 
739 
Fleming in his “ Veterinary Obstetrics,” pages 193-195, 
records several cases of “ foetal retention,” but in most if not 
all of these cases the animals died or were destroyed. 
CHRONIC ABSCESS OF THE GUTTURAL POUCH IN A YOUNG COLT. 
By R. T. Whittlesey, D.Y.S., Los Angeles, Cal. 
The subject was a trotting-bred colt, about five months 
old, and on a first inspection had the appearance of suffering 
from a most aggravated case of strangles. There was an en¬ 
largement, extending from ear to ear, and making a most 
enormous swelling. There was no discharge from the nose, 
no stertorous breathing, and the animal ate and drank well, 
was fat, and seemed to suffer but little inconvenience from 
this great muff-like swelling. There was no soreness on pres¬ 
sure, but it was filled with air, which could be pressed out, 
making a squeaking sound when it escaped. When nearly 
emptied of the air, fluid could be detected at the bottom of 
the cavity. 
The history was that when a month old the colt had a 
small swelling on the right side, which had been overlooked, 
but continued to grow. It had been punctured several times, 
followed by the escape of a whitish, milky-looking fluid. 
The case was placed in my hands, to be treated at my dis¬ 
cretion. 
» • 
A longitudinal incision was made in the most dependent 
part of the tumor, and was followed by the escape of a small 
quantity of white fluid, similar to that which was obtained on 
previous occasions. 
On digital exploration the cavity of the right guttural 
pouch was found much thickened, and could have contained 
between three or four quarts of pus. The condition of the 
pharyngeal opening of the pouch was sufficient to explain the 
peculiar regurgitating sound caused by the escaping air when 
pressure was applied upon the swelling. 
The case being considered beyond remedy, the patient was 
destroyed. 
