39 6 
J. W. IRELAND. 
ing as they do that the drench will enter the stomach with 
difficulty and cause much pain. It is only by the inexperienced 
that any mistake in diagnosis is likely to be made, and to him 
the unmistakable signs of the disease soon present themselves. 
As to the eructuations of gases and the regurgitation of food 
being unfavorable symptoms, there seems to be a difference of 
opinion. I think they are favorable rather than otherwise, and 
depend more upon the anatomical structure of the oesophagus 
after passing through the diaphragm than indicating any partic¬ 
ular lesion of the disease. For we all know that in some cases 
we have frequent eructuations of gas when it is quite apparent 
that the stomach is not distended to any great extent, judging 
from the actions of the horse. 
The continuance of labored breathing after the use of the 
trocar and cannula is a symptom always to be feared if it con¬ 
tinues for any length of time, and is accompanied with tremb¬ 
ling of the muscles of the flank and shoulders. 
While a thorough knowledge of the causes and symptoms 
are very necessary, the treatment is by far the most important. 
The treatment recommended by old writers, and some of the 
present day, are erroneous and not consistent with sound rea¬ 
soning. I am of the opinion that such remedies as oil of tur¬ 
pentine, ammonia, and linseed of castor oil should not in any 
case be given. Diffusible stimulants of any kind in the first 
stages are contra-indicated. The most efficient antiseptics, 
antispasmodics and sedatives, in conjunction with the judicious 
use of trocar and cannula are, in my opinion, the proper treat¬ 
ment. Enemas per rectum in the first stages do more harm 
than good and should not be used till the fermentation is ar¬ 
rested and excitement of the bowels modified. 
The use of eserine or other drastic purgatives, calculated to 
act upon the bowels during the period of excitement must in¬ 
crease the spasms and do much harm, 
As to the use of the trocar and cannula, I think all are 
agreed that it is of great value. The principal difference of 
opinion being the time to use it. Some advocate its use only 
