V'fCiift
A TREATISE cfc/^y>

VETERINARY MEDICINE,

IN FOUR VOLUMES.
VOL. IV.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE DISEASES

COWS, SHEEP, SWINE, AND DOGS:

PARTICULAR DIRECTIONS FOR PERFORMING THE MOST

IMPORTANT OPERATIONS IN FARRIERY;

ILLUSTRATED BY SEVERAL PLATES:

AND REMARKS ON THE EPIDEMIC CATARRH, COMMONLY
CALLED DISTEMPER, IN HORSES.

With some additional Observations on certain Diseases
of the Horse's Eye.

VETERINARY SURGEON, OF EXETER.

PRINTED FOR LONGMAN, HUR-T, REES, ORME, AND BROWN;
BALDWIN, C'RADOCK, AND JOY; SHERWOOD, NEELY, AND
JONES J J. WALKER AND CO.; AND B, REYNOLDS.

C. WOOO, Printer,
Poppiu's Court, Fleet Street,'

INTRODUCTION s ...... . I

OBSERVATIONS ON THE DISEASES
OF CATTLE.

Inflammatory Fever, or General In-
flammation ; known, also, by the va-
rious names of Quarter III, Quarter
Fvil, Shrinking in Black Quarter,
Joint Felon, and many others, equal-
ly absurd and unmeaning . . . . 9

Fever, Putrid, Malignant, Epidemic,
Murrain or Vest ......14

' Catarrh, or Cold; Catarrh, Epidemic;
Influenza, Distemper, or, according
to Dr. Clater, Fellon . . . . .

CHAPTER IV.
Inflammation of the Lungs ....

CHAPTER V.
Inflammation of the Stomach . . .

CHAPTER VI.
Inflammation of the Bowels . . .

CHAPTER VII.
Inflammation of the Liver ....

Inflammation of the Kidneys . . .

Inflammation of the Bladder . , ,

CHAPTER X.
Inflammation of the Womb ....

CHAPTER XI.
Inflammation of the Brain . . . .

CHAPTER XII.
Fog Sickness, Hoven, or Blotcn . . 42

Gripes, or Flatulent Colic . . � . 47

CHAPTER XIV.
Indigestion, Loss of the Cud ... 51

CHAPTER XV.
Jaundice, or Yellows . . . . . . 54

CHAPTER XVI.
Diarrhcea, Looseness, Scouritig Mot,
Scantering, fyc. ....... 56

CHAPTER XVII.
Red Water, Bloody Urine . . . .62

CHAPTER XVIII.
Dysentery, Bloody Ray.....66

On the Managemement of Cows, when
they are near the Time of Calving . 68

CHAPTER XX.
Inflammation and Swelling of the Udder Jl

CHAPTER XXL
Wounds . .........7^

CHAPTER XXII.
Strains and Bruises.......7'.)

OBSERVATIONS ON THE DISEASES

CHAPTER I.
TaeJiot..........61

Inflammatory Fever ; General Inflam-
mation; Blood, or Blood-Striking . SS

Hydrocephalus, Sturdy, Goggles, Stag-
gers, Turnsick, fyc.......84

CHAPTER IV.
The Scab.......... 86

Foot Hot »«■».», «~ *��«» ,� i>J

CHAPTER VI,
Diarrhoea, Scouring ....;. 91

CHAPTER VII.
Dysentery, Braxy.......93

CHAPTER VIII.
Red Water........ . 95

OBSERVATIONS ON THE DISEASES
OF DOGS.

CHAPTER I.
temper.......■> . . 9JT

Worms ........... 101

CHAPTER III,
Madness, Hydrophobia.....103

CHAPTER IV.
Mange...........108

CHAPTER V.
'Canker of the Ears . ,.....10$

OBSERVATIONS ON THE DISEASES
OF SWINE ........ Ill

APPENDIX; CONTAINING DIREC-
TIONS FOR PERFORMING THE
OPERATIONS IN FARRIERY.

Throwing Doivn, or Casting . . .115

CHAPTER II.
On Castration, Gelding, or Cutting . 119

CHAPTER III.
Nicking.......... 127

Craping.......... 132

Docking..........134

CHAPTER VI.
firing . . ;........136

CHAPTER VII.
Blistering..........Ml

An improved Method of constructing a-
Rack and Manger for Waggon and
Post Horses; applicable, also, to
stalled Stables ........ 144

APPENDIX. N° II; CONTAINING OB-
SERVATIONS ON EPIDEMICAL
DISEASES IN HORSES. . . . 149

Practical Observations on an Epidemic
Disease, that has lately prevailed
among Horses...... . . 166

APPENDIX, N°III; CONTAINING OB-
SERVATIONS ON DISEASES OF
THE EYE ,........181

APPENDIX, N°IV; CONTAINING OB-
SERVATIONS ON HYDROPHO-
BIA ...........189

EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES IN
VOL. IV.......: . 201

DIRECTIONS TO THE BIDDER.

Plate I........................■■. to face page "J5.

II...........................................123

HI............................ �.....the Title.

IV............................................144

V. ��.......................................183

Though the Veterinary Art has been culti-
vated, within the last twenty years, with greater
ardour in this country than in any other, the
attention of it's professors appears to have been
wholly confined to the diseases of horses.
Since the establishment of the Veterinary Col-
lege, the treatment of this useful animal, both
in health and disease, has been materially im-
proved; and a rational knowledge of the sub-
ject has been widely diffused. Sure!}', then, it
must be regretted, by every considerate person,
that the diseases of the other domestic animals
should have been almost wholly neglected.
Whether this arises from the prejudices of
farmers, or the supineness of veterinary practi-
tioners, is a subject the author does not feel
himself competent to decide upon. It is well
known, that uneducated farmers are fond of
mystery, in medical matters; and this very na-
turally, as they have always been led to believe,

ir." Jr,:,',v 1U-I !

fubluhrd l.v l',�l,l,n,,.r,:�l,�-l,::i-.l,._v. /',■/,.'',■;'�'■,.',.

that, for every disease, there is an infallible re-
medy, termed a receipt; and the more nume-
rous the ingredients are in that receipt, the
higher opinion have they of it's efficacy. Upon
this principle, perhaps, it is, that the cow-doc-
tor, or cow-leech, as he is commonly termed,
generally obtains their confidence; while the
veterinarian, who adopts a more simple mode
of treatment, relying wholly, perhaps, upon
bleeding and a proper regulation of diet, does
not appear to them sufficiently skilful; and any
attempt he may make to explain the nature of
the disease, or the principle upon which, he
acts, would be quite unintelligible. With re-
spect to the qualifications of those cow-doc-
tors, it is unnecessary to say much; in the
operative part of the art, they are useful, in a
certain degree; that is, in the common opera-
tions, such as castration, spaying, &c.: but as
to the operations, that may be necessary, in
consequence of accidents, and of the treatment
of dangerous wounds, they arc miserably igno-
rant, and often do harm, by employing violent
applications^ when the most soothing treatment
only is proper.

With respect to cattle-doctoring books, they
are in general nearly upon a par with cattle-

i;m;.,i�;i i,_v n�i,h_r;<, .(■.■,,.(,�./.■,.v./�,.. fw,-!,-:',«,

doctors j and, perhaps, of the two, the latter
may with least danger be consulted. The best
book I have seen of the kind is " A Treatise on
Cattle Medicine," by John Lawrence; and,
thougli I do not perfectly agree with him in
the medical treatment of the animal, I think
his remarks on the prevention of disease are
valuable, and ought to be read by every one
interested in the subject. I shall take the li-
berty of transcribing one of his observations,
which, if duly attended to, may prevent a
great deal of unnecessary expense to such pro-
prietors of cattle, as place confidence in the
skill of cow-doctors, or the absurd and expen-
sive receipts recommended in cow-doctoring
books.

" It should be considered, that animals, liv-
ing in a state of nature, regulated by the reason
and experience of man, would be almost wholly
exempt from disease; that their appetites,
unlike our own, may be held under a constant
control; that their diseases result purely from
the negligence or erroneous treatment of their
owners. They are either exposed too much to
the rigours and changes of the weather, or
they are gorged with food, denied a sufficient
quantity, or supplied with such as is unwhole-
B 2

/'t,MU-/i,-<i by i'-.i.l.vhi.('nulork-X- Jov, Fvh-r, ^Jl /.V/.-7.

some. Here we learn the chief causes of their
maladies. Learn to prevent them, in-
stead of undertaking the tedious, unsuitable,
and hopeless task, of learning to cure them.
Of all things, let the proprietors of cattle re-
nounce for ever the insane folly of offering
premiums for curing incurable diseases, and
the hope of providing medicines, which, by a
sort of miraculous operation, will enable men
to continue in the habit of exposing their ani-
mals to the constant risk of such diseases. I
have no infallible receipts to offer; on the
contrary, I wish to impress my readers strongly
with the idea, that all infallible receipts are
infallible nonsense."

In speaking of books on cattle medicine, I
do not allude to tracts, which have been occa-
sionally published by learned men, on epidemic
diseases prevailing at the time; such as that
by Dr. Layard on the Murrain; but of such
books as are professedly written on the diseases
of cattle; as, " The complete Cattle Doctor,"
&c.: the greater part of which appear to have
been manufactured, in London, by persons to-
tally unacquainted with the subject. One
might imagine, from reading books of this
kind, that these unfortunate animals were sub-

A,/,/,Wi«/ .t\y>.iJ./.?i/.ivn.i-Jtrn>../_:rA-,r.m./<>/ArJlw/Wt

ject to an almost endless variety of diseases;
and the strange names, by which they are de-
signated, would, perhaps, deter the student
from entering upon the Herculean undertak-
ing of learning an art apparently so intricate.
But, in fact, their diseases are by no means
numerous; and an attentive person, previ-
ously acquainted with the animal economy
and the properties of medicine, would feel no
difficulty in becoming an expert practitioner.

Having spoken of cattle-doctoring books, it
may be expected, that I should mention those,
which appear to have been written by the per-
sons, whose names are affixed to them. I shall,
therefore, begin with a " Practical Treatise on
the Parturition of the. Cow and Extraction of
the Calf; also on the Diseases of Cattle in ge-
neral, &c. By Edward Skerrett, Professor of
that part of Veterinary Medicine." Price
two guineas, 4to.

The former part of this work, as far as
page 210, is occupied with an account of the
diseases, which cows are subject to during the
time they are with calf, and their remedies;
the mode of managing cows in difficult labours,
and extracting calves, when manual assistance
k necessary: all this is interlarded with a great

deal of theoretical, anatomical, arid physiologi-
cal matter, which appears to have been taken
from the writings of medical men, and is of
course wholly unintelligible to those person?,
for whom this book, we suppose, was intended,
The subject is illustrated by several plates,
We must do the author the justice to say, that
his instructions for managing a cow during
gestation are reasonable; and his directions
for extracting the calf in difficult labours ap-
pear to be judicious: but surety there was no
occasion for explaining the circulation of the
blood, or the manner in which conception
takes (dace.

With respect to the remainder of the work;,
which treats of diseases, we shall say nothing
at present, except transcribing one of his reci-
pes, as a specimen:

" PROVOCATIVE, TO INDUCE THE COW TO
TAKE THE 1HJLI-.

Take of grains of Paradise, half an ounce;
Cantharidcs, from two drams to half an
ounce."

I think this a sufficient dose to destroy the
strongest animal.

The only book, that remains to be noticed,
is a handsome octavo, embellished with an ele-
gant frontispiece, entitled, " Every Man his
own Cattle Doctor. By Francis Clater, Che-
mist and Druggist, at Retford."

t shall only make one observation upon this
book at present, and that is, the ingredients, in
many of Mr. Clater's receipts, are so numerous
and expensive, that, should there be occasion
to continue their use for several days, they
would, I fear, in many instances, exceed the
value of the unfortunate animal, which may be
obliged to swallow them. I must observe,
also, that he has copied Mr. Skerrett's receipt
for making a cow take the bull, adding to it
one ounce of bay berries and one ounce of
aniseeds,

" They, who, for interested purposes, fabri-
cate pretended cattle medicines, of the use of
which they are careless or ignorant, commit an
act of gross inhumanity and crime, in too pro-
bably adding to the sufferings of an unfortu-
nate animal, already tortured by disease."�
Lawrence on Cattle.

I will proceed now to give a plain descrip-
tion of the diseases of cattle and other ani-
mals, as far as I am acquainted with them j

and, with respect to those subjects, of wliich 1
am not qualified to speak from my own expe-
rience, I will endeavour to supply the deficiency
from the best authorities.

Inflammatory Fever, or General Inflamma-
tion; known, also, by the various Names
of Quarter III, Quarter Evil, Shrinking
in Black Quarter, Joint Felon, and many
others, equally absurd and unmeaning.

THIS disease frequently happens to young
cattle, generally between the first and third
year, most commonly about the second year of
their age. It appears to be occasioned by feed-
ing them too hastily; by putting theni, when
in a lean state, into rich, succulent pasture.
The animal, when seized with this com-
»5

plaint, becomes suddenly listless and stupid;
he hangs down his head, refuses his food, and
appears to move with difficulty. Swellings
soon appear on different parts of the body,
which, when pressed by the finger, make a
crackling noise. Sometimes, the joints are
particularly affected; at others, the swelling
appears on the back, shoulder, or belly.

The disease attacks rather suddenly, and
often proves fatal, particularly when proper re-
medies are not speedily ere ployed. Bleeding
is the first remedy, and must be proportioned
to the age and strength of the animal; per-
haps from three to four quarts will generally
be found sufficient. The blood should always
be measured. The laxative, page 12, should
then be given; and the swollen parts, particu-
iarly if the joints are affected, should be rubbed
with the liniment, page 13.

If this disease is really produced by feeding
cattle too hastily, and this seems to be the opi-
nion of all those, who have written on the sub-
ject, the mode of preventing it is sufficiently
obvious. Mr. Lawrence has very properly ad-
vised, that a piece of short, or inferior keep,
should be reserved, as a digesting place, where
cattle may occasionally be turned, to empty

INFLAMMATORY FEVER. $1 -

.and exercise themselves. This is certainly
better than bleeding, or any medical pre-
ventive.

I think it necessary to mention another
mode of prevention, which, I have been in-
form ed, by an intelligent gentleman, who has
had great experience in breeding and rearing
Rattle, has been adopted, by him and his neigh-
bours, with great success.
- He informs me, also, that, before-this me-
thod Teas discovered, they lost so many young
cattle by the disease, that they had determined
to breed no more. They happened, however,
to hear of this preventive, and purchased it, as
a valuable secret.

Having properly secured the animal, an in-
cision is to be made in the skin, beginning
from the division of the claws, and carrying it
upward, to the extent of two inches. A bluish
vessel will be seen, which is to be drawn up
with a hook, and removed with scissors; the
part is afterward to be dressed as a common
wound.�Mr. Lawrence is very humorous up-
on this apparently whimsical operation; and I
should certainly consider it in the came light,
that he does, but for the very respectable au
thority, from which I received it.

DISEASES 0J" CATTLE.

PURGATIVE DRINK.

Take of Barbadoes aloes . . 3 dr.

Carbonat of potash .... 2 dr.

Sulphat of soda..... 6 oz.

Warm water...... 1 pt.

This dose will generally be found sufficient
for an animal of two years old. Should the
disease occur in situations, where these medi-
cines cannot be procured, give from four to
six ounces of common salt, in a pint of water:
the addition of four ounces of castor oil, sweet
oil, or even linseed oil, will render it more
efficacious. It may be proper to remind the
reader, that, as this disease frequently proves
fatal, in whatever manner it is treated, pre-
ventive measures should never be lost sight of.
Should the animal, however, be relieved, by
the treatment we have directed, considerable
weakness may follow; for which give the fol-
lowing, twice a day.

Powdered caraway seeds , , 1 oz.
Ginger ........ 2 dr.

To be given in a pint of oatmeal gruel

INFLAMMATORY FEVER, 13^

Take of linseed oil . .

Oil of turpentine . . .

Water of pure ammonia ,

Fever, Putrid, Malignant, Epidemic,
JSliirrain or Pest.

This destructive malady does not appear
to have visited Europe since the year 1744.
For an account, or history, of the disease, the
reader is referred to a Treatise on Cattle, by
John Mills, published by J. Johnson, St. Paul's
Churchyard. It appears, that M. Sauvages,
the celebrated professor of medicine at Mont-
pellier, was an accurate observer of the disor-
der, when it raged with great violence in many
parts of Europe. He calculated, that of
twenty, that were attacked by it, nineteen
died; that no certain remedy had been dis-
covered, or any effectual mode of prevention,
except separating the healthy from the sick:
he recommends, however, bleeding and purg-
ing, at the commencement of the disorder,
with setons in the dewlap. After the opera-
tion of the purgative, he considers opiates,
aromatics, &c, such as caraway seeds, ginger,
sascarilla, &c, as the most proper rn.edicin.es.

Catarrh, or Cold; Catarrh, Epidemic J
; Influenza, Distemper, or, according to
J})\ Clater, Fetton.

Colds .are very common, particularly in
wet or cold weather; and, though they are often
thought of too little importance to require
particular attention, yet, by neglecting them*
and suffering the animal to continue exposed
to the weather, the most serious consequences
may ensue. From such neglect, wc often find,
that the animal gradually declines in flesh and
strength, becomes hidebound, and has a rough,
.staring coat; at length tubercles form in the
lungs, the mesenteric glands become enlarged,
obstructing the passage by which nutriment is
conveyed to the blood: this is succeeded by
atrophy, consumption, and death. It is highly
important, therefore, to attend to this disorder,
as soon as it is discovered; mid I believe it
may be safely asserted, that more good may be
done by nursing, placing the animal in a w^rm

16 DISEASES OP CATTXE.

situation, giving him warm, nourishing fluids,
such as gruel, infusion of malt, &c, than by
all the medical hodgepodges, that have been
recommended by cattle-doctors^ from the time
of the great Gervase Markham to that of the
celebrated Dr. Clater. Colds are, at some
seasons, so prevalent, as to be considered epi-
demic and infectious. On such occasions, they
generally occur with great violence, and are
accompanied by fever, and, soon after the
attack, by considerable debility.

On the first attack, the animal appears dull
and languid; the eyes are watery, and, some-
times, partially closed; the appetite is di-
minished ; and, most common-ly, it is attended
with cough. Swellings under or below the
ears, difficulty in swallowing, and a discharge
from the nostrils, are not unusual symptoms
of the complaint. When catarrh prevails to
this degree, it is generally named influenza,
or distemper, and has been thought contagious;
but this opinion has not been proved to be true,
nor does it appear probable.

With respect to the treatment of this disease,
I am decidedly of opinion, that the hot, stimiv
lating drenches, commonly recommended, are
injurious. Skerrett recommends the following

CATARRH, OR COLD. 17

curious farrago, for one dose, which is to he
given, in a quart of gruel and a pint of ale,
once or twice a day, till the disease is removed.

" Nitre........ 30Z,

Salt of tartar..... 1 oz.

Valerian...... . 1 oz.

Liquorice powder andanise, of

Turmeric...... 1 oz.

Juniper berries . : . . 1 oz.

Mustard...... . 2 oz."

From this specimen one might reasonably
conclude, that Mr. Skerrett is a druggist, as
well as a cow-doctor.

Clater recommends, with other seeds, &c,
" long pepper, turmeric, and ginger, of each
one ounce, with a quart of ale and two ounces
«f butter."

Bleeding, at the commencement of colds,
is generally proper; the only circumstance,
which indicates it's impropriety, is considera-
ble weakness, and low condition. The quan-
tity of blood taken should seldom exceed twa
quarts. If the animal is costive, give a laxa-

DISK.VS13S OF CATTtE,

tive drink; but if more open than usual, that
is, if he purges or scours, give the following
powder in some oatmeal gruel.

Powdered ginger . . 3 dr.

Antimonial powder . 2 dr.

Camphor..... 1 � dr.

Tincture of opium ^ , § oz.

To be repeated after eight or ten hours,
should it be found necessary. If there beany
difficulty in swallowing, and particularly if it is
considerable, the following liniment should be
rubbed about the throat.

Take of oil of turpentine and any

common oil, of each . . , 1 oz.

Water of pure ammonia, common-
ly called spirit of sal ammo-
niac ......, , -'- oz.

In common colds, I am inclined to believe,
that, if the animal were placed in a comforta-
ble situation, and well attended to, medicine
would be unnecessary. Even bleeding, in
common slight colds, is seldom required; but

CATARRH, O'A COLD. 19

should the animal, by a change of situation,
become hot and feverish, should the eyes look
red and the flanks move quickly, he should be
bled freely; and if in any degree costive, the
laxative should be given. This, however,
does not often happen, except the costiveness,
which may be expected from a change of diet;
the laxative, therefore, is often proper: but
when there are no feverish symptoms present,
it should be mixed with some cordial medicine,
such as one ounce of caraway seeds, and three
or four drams of ginger.

When the influenza, or distemper, has not
b«en attended to, or has been improperly
treated, at an early period, the animal becomes
extremely weak, and every means must be
employed to recruit his strength. On such
occasions, the following tonic may be given
twice or three times a day, which, in conjunc-
tion with a warm, nourishing diet, and careful
attendance, may ultimately effect a recovery.

It is proper, however, to observe, that, if
the animal should become costive, a mild laxa-
tive will be proper; about half a dose will be
sufficient. If grass can be conveniently pro-
cured, when the animal is kept under cover, a
moderate quantity will be useful. In favours-

ble weather, the field is the best place j but a
sheltered and warm situation should be chosen.

Sulphat of soda (Glauber's salt) 1 lb.

Oatmeal gruel..... 1 qt.

Powdered caraway seeds . » 1 oz.
Mix, for one dose.

Before this subject is dismissed, I wish to
impress upon the reader's mind, that, whenever
this disease appears to be epidemic, preventive
measures should be seasonably adopted, which
is more particularly necessary when rain and
cold winds prevail; that catarrh, or cold, IB
often an insidious complaint, and, if neglected,
may produce very serious consequences; and,
that much more good may be done, by the
management we have pointed out, than by the
most popular cattle medicines.

Whenever caraway, or any of the aromatic
seeds are employed, they should not be pur-
chased in powder, as they do not keep well in
this form.

Inflammation of the Lungs.

This disease most commonly occurs to
working cattle, from overexertion; or from
being put into a stall, or suffered to drink
largely of cold water, immediately after work-
ing hard, and when in a state of perspiration.
It may arise, also, from exposure to cold and
rain, or from sudden changes of weather; it is
to this latter cause, indeed, that the greater
part of the internal diseases of cattle may
justly be attributed. It is highly necessary,
therefore, to have shelter yards, sheds, or in-
closures, where cattle may be occasionally pro-
tected from the inclemencies of the weather.
Such accommodation is absolutely indispensa-
ble for such as may be attacked by this or any
other internal complaint; without it, medical
treatment will avail nothing. This disease
often begins with shivering, loss of appetite, and
a striking appearance of anxiety or depression;

22 »I3EAS�S Of CATTLE.

but the most distinguishing symptom is an in-
creased motion of the flanks, or quickness of
breathing. The pulse is more frequent than
natural; but small, and not easily felt. On
lifting the upper eyelid, it's under surface
will be found unusually red, sometimes ap-
proaching to orange colour. If the disease
happens to a milch cow, she soon loses her
milk; and the ears, legs, and horns, are gene-
rally cold. Early bleeding is the grand re-
medy, in this complaint; but it must not be
done sparingly. A cow, or ox, in tolerable
condition, may lose from four to six quarts
with advantage; and, if the symptoms do not
abate in four or six hours, the operation should
be repeated, to the extent of three or four
quarts, unless the animal faint; whenever this
occurs, on any occasion, the bleeding of course
must be stopped. Faintness, however, when
the disease is really inflammation of the lungs,
is by no means an unfavourable effect of bleed-
ing ; it is a proof, that the operation has been
carried to it's full extent, and a recovery is
more likely to happen. A large seton should
be put in the dewlap, and moistened with
oil of turpentine; and the sides should be well
rubbed with the following embrocation.

INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. 23

Take of flour of mustard . . 4 oz.
Oil of turpentine . . ; . . 2 oz.
Water of ammonia .... 2 02.

The whole to be mixed with as much water,
as will bring it to the consistence of cream.
Immediately after the bleeding, give the fol-
lowing drink.

Take of camphor , , � 2 dr.

Powdered caraway seeds . 1 oz.
To be given in a pint of gruel.

Should the animal be costive, a clyster
should be thrown up, consisting of about three
or four quarts of warm water, and half a pound
of common salt. A pint of castor oil, also,
may be added to the above drink; if this can-
not be procured, sweet oil, linseed oil, or even
melted lard, may be substituted.

It is a bad plan to take only a small quantity
of blood daily, or every other day, as has been
advised by Dr. Clater and others; for though
it may sometimes retard the progress of the
inflammation, yet the animal will eventually
^be destroyed by it. With respect to the sti-

21 DISEASES OF CATTLE.

mulating, or heating medicines, recommended
by this gentleman, they are, unquestionably,
highly pernicious; a circumstance well known
to eveiy one at all conversant with medical
practice. I can only account for Clater's
extraordinary prescription, containing, in one
(Jose, grains of Paradise, Peruvian bark, mot-
tled soap, sweet fennel seeds, salt of tartar, and
a glass of gin, by supposing, that some other
disease was mistaken for inflammation of the
lungs; and this will appear the more probable,
by reading his description of peripneumony, or
inflammation of the lungs, which he seems to
consider as a disease of the liver; for he in-
forms us, when speaking of peripneumony,
that " hepatic diseases (that is, diseases of the
liver) are of frequent occurrence among cattle,
first, by the powerful effects of the elements
bringingon this disease...." After a little more
of the same kind of medical jargon, we are
gravely informed, that " the cause of this dis-
ease appears to proceed, in great measure,
from a deficiency in the animal's nature of
performing it's regular course, in carrying on a
due circulation through all the vessels; the re-
dundant blood, through these impediments,
becomes surcharged with the pituitous lentar

INFLAMMATION OP THE LUNGS. 25

°t the blood and humours; for the glands
cease to secrete the bile, which is not poured
into the intestines, but deposited on the skin,"
&c. If D_r< ciater meant only to astonish his
readers by a grand display of his medical
learning, all this nonsense might do very well;
but, as he professes to write merely for the
purpose of teaching them how to cure the dis-
eases of cattle, it is certainly superfluous, to
say the best of it. Inflammation of the lungs
^ls a term, that has, unfortunately, been too
often applied to diseases of a different kind j
and it is from this errour, perhaps, that strong
stimulating medicines have been recommended
on such occasions. There is an affection of
the lungs and parts connected with them,
which will not admit of the copious bleeding I
have recommended; but the symptoms are
Widely different. There is not that difficulty
and quickness in breathing; the pulse is weak,
but not much quicker than usual; the kernels,
or glands, about the throat, are often swollen;
sometimes, there is considerable difficulty in
swallowing, which is particularly seen, when
tbe animal attempts to drink: in short, this is
nothing more than a severe degree of catarrh,
or cold: but, even in this complaint, moderate
vol. iv. _c

�6 DISEASES OF CATTLE.

bleeding is necessary, and powerful stimulants
are extremely pernicious. When the disease,
however, has not been discovered for some
days, and the animal appears much weakened
by it, bleeding is of course improper.

Inflammation of the Stomach.

The complicated structure of this organ, ia
ruminating animals, renders it particularly
liable to disease; inflammation, however, does
not appear to occur frequently as a primary
isorder, but is more commonly a consequence
of some offensive matter lodged in one of the
four stomachs, or from the animal feeding so
greedily, as to weaken the organ, and prevent
rt from performing it's functions. In either of
these cases, the principal object is to get rid of
the offensive matter, by invigorating the
weakened stomach, and enabling it to expel
the matter, by whieh it is oppressed. Should
inflammation attack the stomachs, independ-
ently of this cause, that is, without any hurtful
matter having been swallowed, or any impro-
per accumulation of food, the principal reme-
d«es would be plentiful bleeding and absti-
c2

28 DISEASES OF CATTLE.

nence from food. But this is a case, which
very rarely occurs. We shall speak more par-
ticularly of the diseases of this organ under the
head Indigestion.

Inflammation of the Bowels.

I his is not a very common disease among
horned cattle, and is generally occasioned by
drinking cold water when heated by exercise,
^or by having been overdriven; it may be
caused, also, by costiveness. The principal
symptom of the disease is a griping pain, which
causes the animal to lie down, and become
"very restless; he frequently turns his head to-
wards his belly, or endeavours to strike it with
Jus hind foot. The pulse becomes quick, the
breathing disturbed, and, when the pain is vio-
lent, a copious perspiration takes place. When
proper remedies are not employed, the disease
terminates in mortification and death. In the
treatment of this complaint, the circumstances
of the case must be carefully attended to. If
the pulse is much quicker than natural, the
under surface of the eyelid unusually red, and
the breathing disturbed, let a large quantity of
blood be immediately taken away, even five or

30 DISEASES OF CATTLE.

six quarts j and then, unless the bowels are
already unusually open, give the following
drink.

Sulphat of magnesia . . . 8 oz.
Castor oil ...... 1 pt.

Dissolve the salts in the gruel, and add to--
them the oil, for one dose.

The operation of this drink should be assist'
ed by clysters. When all the above symp-
toms, however, are not observable; if the un-
der surface of the eyelid is not redder than
usual, or if it is rather paler; if the pulse is
nearly in it's natural state; and particularly if
the animal is rather loose, or scours, the bleed-
ing should be moderate; and if he be rather
weak, and low in condition, it had better be
omitted. The following anodyne drink, is to
be given.

Tincture of opium. . . . | oz.
Spirit of nitrous ether . . 2 oz.
Water ....... 1 pt.

INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS,. SI

When the animal has been kept for some
tune upon dry food, and he has been observed
to dung sparingly, and what he does void
appears to be discharged with some difficulty,
is more solid than usual, of a different colour,
°r of an offensive smell, it shows, that the dis-
ease is occasioned by costiveness; in which
case, relief can only be obtained by the
laxative drink and clysters. Bleeding, how-
ever, must not be omitted, particularly if the
pulse is quickened, the under surface of the
eyelid redder than natural, and the breathing
disturbed. If the laxative prove ineffectual, in
removing the eostiveness, it should be repeated.
*�See Gripes, page 47.

Inflammation of the Liver.

The structure of this organ in horned tattle
and sheep is different from that of the horse ;
the latter has no gall-bladder, but in the former
there is one of considerable size. It is on this
account, perhaps, that cattle are more subject
to diseases of the liver, than the horse. I do
not believe, that inflammation of the liver
often occurs in so acute a form, as to requite
bleeding largely; it is more commonly of a.
chronic, or slow kind, causing a defective ac-
tion in the organ, in consequence of which an
unhealthy kind of bile is formed, which plugs
up the ducts of the liver, and causes a de-
rangement in the organs connected with it.
The symptoms, therefore, of a diseased liver
are very complicated; and hence we have a
variety of nominal complaints. We shall treat
of these subjects, as far as we are acquainted with
them, under the heads Jaundice, Diarrhoea,
and Hepatic Consumption. With respect to the

INFLAMMATION OP THE 11YBR. $3

acute inflammation of the liver, when it does
occur, it is to be treated in the same manner
as inflammation of the lungs, and is probably
produced by the same causes.

Inflammation of the Kidneys.

There is no disease, I believe, described
in books on cattle medicine, that seems to be
so imperfectly known as this; and the treat-
ment commonly recommended for it is in di-
rect opposition to that, which any one acquaint-
ed with the nature of the disease would advise.
When the kidneys are inflamed, every thing,
which might tend to stimulate them, should
be carefully avoided, as it must necessarily
aggravate the complaint. Dr. Clater makes
the following remark upon this disease:
" Country farriers treat this disease very im-
properly, by giving hot stimulating drenches,
without first properly qualifying them with
others." The Doctor then gives us the follow-
ing prescription:

ftl&AMMATION OV THE KIDNEYS. 35

Salt of tartar . . .

'For one dose. To be repeated every day,
or every other day, as the symptoms may
require."



						Plate.//.

	^^HSIB
	^^HSIB				*S?.«.
					*S?.«.

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		fca		llllIlIIEli;::
				llllIlIIEli;::

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		5^
	*INTRODUCTION.**	5^
	*INTRODUCTION.**

ject to an almost endless variety of diseases; and the strange names, by which they are de- signated, would, perhaps, deter the student from entering upon the Herculean undertak- ing of learning an art apparently so intricate. But, in fact, their diseases are by no means numerous; and an attentive person, previ- ously acquainted with the animal economy and the properties of medicine, would feel no difficulty in becoming an expert practitioner. Having spoken of cattle-doctoring books, it may be expected, that I should mention those, which appear to have been written by the per- sons, whose names are affixed to them. I shall, therefore, begin with a " Practical Treatise on the Parturition of the. Cow and Extraction of the Calf; also on the Diseases of Cattle in ge- neral, &c. By Edward Skerrett, Professor of that part of Veterinary Medicine." Price two guineas, 4to. The former part of this work, as far as page 210, is occupied with an account of the diseases, which cows are subject to during the time they are with calf, and their remedies; the mode of managing cows in difficult labours, and extracting calves, when manual assistance k necessary: all this is interlarded with a great



	44
	44	DISEASES 0F CATTLE.
		DISEASES 0F CATTLE.

than that they had been accustomed to, they sometimes eat so greedily, that the paunch is incapable of contracting, or forcing back it's contents into the mouth. When this happens, the food undergoes a kind of fermentation, in consequence of which a great deal of air is generated, and the paunch so excessively dis- tended, that, if the animal is not relieved, it will either burst or destroy him by suffoca- tion. An instrument has been invented, by Mr. Eager, for giving vent to the confined air, which is very simple, and appears to have answered the purpose completely. It consists of a cane, six feet in length, with a round knob of wood properly secured at one end. An assistant is to lay hold of the cow's horn with one hand, and the part which divides the nostrils with the other. The operator is to take the tongue in his left hand, and with his right he is to force the instrument down the gullet. As soon as it enters the paunch, a good deal of air will rush out. The instru- ment may remain in the stomach, without in- juring the animal, until the air is perfectly evacuated. Jt sometimes happens, that the distention of the paunch takes place so suddenly, and in se



	46
	46	DISEASES OK CATTLE.

ened by it; great care, therefore, is necessary, in order to prevent a return. For several days after, they should be fed rather sparingly, or not allowed to eat much at one time; and every morning and evening, for three or four days, may take half an ounce of ginger, and one ounce of powdered gentian, in a pint of strong camomile tea. Sheep are liable to a similar disease, and may be relieved by the same remedies. The instrument, however, employed for sheep, need not be more than three feet in length, it should also be smaller and more flexible. It has been said, that a common cart-whip may, on emergencies, be made to answer the pur- pose, if used with dexterity. Any one, unaccustomed to handle cattle, would feel some difficulty in using Mr. Eager's instrument; but, if the horn be held firmly with the left hand, and the part which divides the nostrils be pinched with the finger and thumb of the right hand, the cow will ge- nerally submit quietly to the operator.



GRIPES, OR FLATULENT COLIC. 49 the stomach. On the other hand, should the disease have been occasioned by costiveness, <* ceding _upon _dry _foodj _the ^ ^ ^ bowels must be attended to, after the animal *as been relieved by the operation of the pur- gative drink; as the tendency to costiveness Will probably continue, unless it is removed by a change of food. When this cannot be done, some salt should be mixed with the food, if the animal will eat it; if not, he should be drenched with three or four ounces of salt dissolved in water daily j this will serve to open ^S ^b0Wels ⁱⁿ a slight degree, and increase his appetite for water, with which he should be ireely supplied.

		FORGING DRINK. Take of barbadoes aloes Carbonat of potash Powdered ginger Water .... Oil of turpentine Linseed oil . . Mix, for one dose.
				i oz. S dr. § oz. 1 pt� 1 oz. 8oz,


	VOL. IV,
	VOL. IV,		&
			&



V'fCiift A TREATISE cfc/^y> ON VETERINARY MEDICINE, IN FOUR VOLUMES. VOL. IV. CONTAINING OBSERVATIONS ON THE DISEASES OF COWS, SHEEP, SWINE, AND DOGS: ALSO, *PARTICULAR DIRECTIONS FOR PERFORMING THE MOST* *IMPORTANT OPERATIONS IN FARRIERY;* ILLUSTRATED BY SEVERAL PLATES: AND REMARKS ON THE EPIDEMIC CATARRH, COMMONLY CALLED DISTEMPER, IN HORSES. With some additional Observations on certain Diseases of the Horse's Eye.

		BY JAMES WHITE, VETERINARY SURGEON, OF EXETER.

	LONDON: PRINTED FOR LONGMAN, HUR-T, REES, ORME, AND BROWN; BALDWIN, C'RADOCK, AND JOY; SHERWOOD, NEELY, AND JONES J J. WALKER AND CO.; AND B, REYNOLDS. 1815.



			CONTENTS.

		Page INTRODUCTION s ...... . I OBSERVATIONS ON THE DISEASES OF CATTLE. CHAPTER I. Inflammatory Fever, or General In- flammation ; known, also, by the va- rious names of Quarter III, Quarter Fvil, Shrinking in Black Quarter, Joint Felon, and many others, equal- ly absurd and unmeaning . . . . 9 CHAPTER II. Fever, Putrid, Malignant, Epidemic, Murrain or Vest ......14



		V CONTENTS. CHAPTER III. ' Catarrh, or Cold; Catarrh, Epidemic; Influenza, Distemper, or, according to Dr. Clater, Fellon . . . . . CHAPTER IV. Inflammation of the Lungs .... CHAPTER V. Inflammation of the Stomach . . . CHAPTER VI. Inflammation of the Bowels . . . CHAPTER VII. Inflammation of the Liver .... CHAPTER VIII. Inflammation of the Kidneys . . . CHAPTER IX. Inflammation of the Bladder . , , CHAPTER X. Inflammation of the Womb .... CHAPTER XI. Inflammation of the Brain . . . .



		CONTENTS. . "V CHAPTER XII. Fog Sickness, Hoven, or Blotcn . . 42 CHAPTER XIII. Gripes, or Flatulent Colic . . � . 47 CHAPTER XIV. Indigestion, Loss of the Cud ... 51 CHAPTER XV. Jaundice, or Yellows . . . . . . 54 CHAPTER XVI. Diarrhcea, Looseness, Scouritig Mot, Scantering, fyc. ....... 56 CHAPTER XVII. Red Water, Bloody Urine . . . .62 CHAPTER XVIII. Dysentery, Bloody Ray.....66 CHAPTER XIX. On the Managemement of Cows, when they are near the Time of Calving . 68 CHAPTER XX. Inflammation and Swelling of the Udder Jl



			VI CONTENTS, CHAPTER XXL Wounds . .........7^ CHAPTER XXII. Strains and Bruises.......7'.)

		OBSERVATIONS ON THE DISEASES OF SHEEP. CHAPTER I. TaeJiot..........61 CHAPTER II. Inflammatory Fever ; General Inflam- mation; Blood, or Blood-Striking . SS CHAPTER III. Hydrocephalus, Sturdy, Goggles, Stag- gers, Turnsick, fyc.......84 CHAPTER IV. The Scab.......... 86 CHAPTER V. Foot Hot »«■».», «~ ��«» ,� i>J*



		CONTENTS. VU CHAPTER VI, Diarrhoea, Scouring ....;. 91 CHAPTER VII. Dysentery, Braxy.......93 CHAPTER VIII. Red Water........ . 95

			OBSERVATIONS ON THE DISEASES OF DOGS. CHAPTER I. temper.......■> . . 9JT Chapter il Worms ........... 101 CHAPTER III, Madness, Hydrophobia.....103 CHAPTER IV. Mange...........108 CHAPTER V. 'Canker of the Ears . ,.....10$



		VIII CONTENTS, OBSERVATIONS ON THE DISEASES OF SWINE ........ Ill

			APPENDIX; CONTAINING DIREC- TIONS FOR PERFORMING THE OPERATIONS IN FARRIERY. CHAPTER I. Throwing Doivn, or Casting . . .115 CHAPTER II. On Castration, Gelding, or Cutting . 119 CHAPTER III. Nicking.......... 127 CHAPTER IV. Craping.......... 132 CHAPTER V. Docking..........134 CHAPTER VI. firing . . ;........136



			CONTENTS. 1X"

CHAPTER VII. Blistering..........Ml CHAPTER VIII. An improved Method of constructing a- Rack and Manger for Waggon and Post Horses; applicable, also, to stalled Stables ........ 144

	APPENDIX. N° II; CONTAINING OB- SERVATIONS ON EPIDEMICAL DISEASES IN HORSES. . . . 149 Practical Observations on an Epidemic Disease, that has lately prevailed among Horses...... . . 166

		APPENDIX, N°III; CONTAINING OB- SERVATIONS ON DISEASES OF THE EYE ,........181



X CONTENTS. APPENDIX, N°IV; CONTAINING OB- SERVATIONS ON HYDROPHO- BIA ...........189

	EXPLANATION OF THE PLATES IN VOL. IV.......: . 201

		DIRECTIONS TO THE BIDDER. Plate I........................■■. to face page "J5. II...........................................123 HI............................ �.....the Title. IV............................................144 V. ��.......................................183



			INTRODUCTION.

		Though the Veterinary Art has been culti- vated, within the last twenty years, with greater ardour in this country than in any other, the attention of it's professors appears to have been wholly confined to the diseases of horses. Since the establishment of the Veterinary Col- lege, the treatment of this useful animal, both in health and disease, has been materially im- proved; and a rational knowledge of the sub- ject has been widely diffused. Sure!}', then, it must be regretted, by every considerate person, that the diseases of the other domestic animals should have been almost wholly neglected. Whether this arises from the prejudices of farmers, or the supineness of veterinary practi- tioners, is a subject the author does not feel himself competent to decide upon. It is well known, that uneducated farmers are fond of mystery, in medical matters; and this very na- turally, as they have always been led to believe, VOL. iv. ft



		J'lcUO



			l'labc. J.

		Tig.l.

ir." Jr,:,',v 1U-I !

	fubluhrd l.v l',�l,l,n,,.r,:�l,�-l,::i-.l,._v. /',■/,.'',■;'�'■,.',.



	o
	o	INTRODUCTION.
		INTRODUCTION.

that, for every disease, there is an infallible re- medy, termed a receipt; and the more nume- rous the ingredients are in that receipt, the higher opinion have they of it's efficacy. Upon this principle, perhaps, it is, that the cow-doc- tor, or cow-leech, as he is commonly termed, generally obtains their confidence; while the veterinarian, who adopts a more simple mode of treatment, relying wholly, perhaps, upon bleeding and a proper regulation of diet, does not appear to them sufficiently skilful; and any attempt he may make to explain the nature of the disease, or the principle upon which, he acts, would be quite unintelligible. With re- spect to the qualifications of those cow-doc- tors, it is unnecessary to say much; in the operative part of the art, they are useful, in a certain degree; that is, in the common opera- tions, such as castration, spaying, &c.: but as to the operations, that may be necessary, in consequence of accidents, and of the treatment of dangerous wounds, they arc miserably igno- rant, and often do harm, by employing violent applications^ when the most soothing treatment only is proper. With respect to cattle-doctoring books, they are in general nearly upon a par with cattle-



		3
	INTUODUCTION.	3

doctors j and, perhaps, of the two, the latter may with least danger be consulted. The best book I have seen of the kind is " A Treatise on Cattle Medicine," by John Lawrence; and, thougli I do not perfectly agree with him in the medical treatment of the animal, I think his remarks on the prevention of disease are valuable, and ought to be read by every one interested in the subject. I shall take the li- berty of transcribing one of his observations, which, if duly attended to, may prevent a great deal of unnecessary expense to such pro- prietors of cattle, as place confidence in the skill of cow-doctors, or the absurd and expen- sive receipts recommended in cow-doctoring books. " It should be considered, that animals, liv- ing in a state of nature, regulated by the reason and experience of man, would be almost wholly exempt from disease; that their appetites, unlike our own, may be held under a constant control; that their diseases result purely from the negligence or erroneous treatment of their owners. They are either exposed too much to the rigours and changes of the weather, or they are gorged with food, denied a sufficient quantity, or supplied with such as is unwhole- B 2



		VlatelE.

IV'!' Trmea th-i

	/'t,MU-/i,-<i by i'-.i.l.vhi.('nulork-X- Jov, Fvh-r, ^Jl /.V/.-7.



	A
	A	INTRODTJCTION.
		INTRODTJCTION.

some. Here we learn the chief causes of their maladies. Learn to prevent them, in- stead of undertaking the tedious, unsuitable, and hopeless task, of learning to cure them. Of all things, let the proprietors of cattle re- nounce for ever the insane folly of offering premiums for curing incurable diseases, and the hope of providing medicines, which, by a sort of miraculous operation, will enable men to continue in the habit of exposing their ani- mals to the constant risk of such diseases. I have no infallible receipts to offer; on the contrary, I wish to impress my readers strongly with the idea, that all infallible receipts are infallible nonsense." In speaking of books on cattle medicine, I do not allude to tracts, which have been occa- sionally published by learned men, on epidemic diseases prevailing at the time; such as that by Dr. Layard on the Murrain; but of such books as are professedly written on the diseases of cattle; as, " The complete Cattle Doctor," &c.: the greater part of which appear to have been manufactured, in London, by persons to- tally unacquainted with the subject. One might imagine, from reading books of this kind, that these unfortunate animals were sub-



	6
	6	INTHODUCTIO'V,
		INTHODUCTIO'V,

deal of theoretical, anatomical, arid physiologi- cal matter, which appears to have been taken from the writings of medical men, and is of course wholly unintelligible to those person?, for whom this book, we suppose, was intended, The subject is illustrated by several plates, We must do the author the justice to say, that his instructions for managing a cow during gestation are reasonable; and his directions for extracting the calf in difficult labours ap- pear to be judicious: but surety there was no occasion for explaining the circulation of the blood, or the manner in which conception takes (dace. With respect to the remainder of the work;, which treats of diseases, we shall say nothing at present, except transcribing one of his reci- pes, as a specimen: " PROVOCATIVE, TO INDUCE THE COW TO TAKE THE 1HJLI-. Take of grains of Paradise, half an ounce; Cantharidcs, from two drams to half an ounce." I think this a sufficient dose to destroy the strongest animal.



		8 INTRODUCTION; and, with respect to those subjects, of wliich 1 am not qualified to speak from my own expe- rience, I will endeavour to supply the deficiency from the best authorities.

				J



			OBSERVATIONS

		ON THE DISEASES OF CATTLE. CHAPTER I. Inflammatory Fever, or General Inflamma- tion; known, also, by the various Names of Quarter III, Quarter Evil, Shrinking in Black Quarter, Joint Felon, and many others, equally absurd and unmeaning. THIS disease frequently happens to young cattle, generally between the first and third year, most commonly about the second year of their age. It appears to be occasioned by feed- ing them too hastily; by putting theni, when in a lean state, into rich, succulent pasture. The animal, when seized with this com- »5



	10
	10	DISEASES OF CATTLE,
		DISEASES OF CATTLE,

plaint, becomes suddenly listless and stupid; he hangs down his head, refuses his food, and appears to move with difficulty. Swellings soon appear on different parts of the body, which, when pressed by the finger, make a crackling noise. Sometimes, the joints are particularly affected; at others, the swelling appears on the back, shoulder, or belly. The disease attacks rather suddenly, and often proves fatal, particularly when proper re- medies are not speedily ere ployed. Bleeding is the first remedy, and must be proportioned to the age and strength of the animal; per- haps from three to four quarts will generally be found sufficient. The blood should always be measured. The laxative, page 12, should then be given; and the swollen parts, particu- iarly if the joints are affected, should be rubbed with the liniment, page 13. If this disease is really produced by feeding cattle too hastily, and this seems to be the opi- nion of all those, who have written on the sub- ject, the mode of preventing it is sufficiently obvious. Mr. Lawrence has very properly ad- vised, that a piece of short, or inferior keep, should be reserved, as a digesting place, where cattle may occasionally be turned, to empty



		INFLAMMATORY FEVER. $1 - .and exercise themselves. This is certainly better than bleeding, or any medical pre- ventive. I think it necessary to mention another mode of prevention, which, I have been in- form ed, by an intelligent gentleman, who has had great experience in breeding and rearing Rattle, has been adopted, by him and his neigh- bours, with great success. - He informs me, also, that, before-this me- thod Teas discovered, they lost so many young cattle by the disease, that they had determined to breed no more. They happened, however, to hear of this preventive, and purchased it, as a valuable secret. Having properly secured the animal, an in- cision is to be made in the skin, beginning from the division of the claws, and carrying it upward, to the extent of two inches. A bluish vessel will be seen, which is to be drawn up with a hook, and removed with scissors; the part is afterward to be dressed as a common wound.�Mr. Lawrence is very humorous up- on this apparently whimsical operation; and I should certainly consider it in the came light, that he does, but for the very respectable au thority, from which I received it.



	12
	12	DISEASES 0J" CATTLE.
		DISEASES 0J" CATTLE.

PURGATIVE DRINK. Take of Barbadoes aloes . . 3 dr. Carbonat of potash .... 2 dr. Sulphat of soda..... 6 oz. Warm water...... 1 pt. Mix, for one dose. This dose will generally be found sufficient for an animal of two years old. Should the disease occur in situations, where these medi- cines cannot be procured, give from four to six ounces of common salt, in a pint of water: the addition of four ounces of castor oil, sweet oil, or even linseed oil, will render it more efficacious. It may be proper to remind the reader, that, as this disease frequently proves fatal, in whatever manner it is treated, pre- ventive measures should never be lost sight of. Should the animal, however, be relieved, by the treatment we have directed, considerable weakness may follow; for which give the fol- lowing, twice a day. Powdered caraway seeds , , 1 oz. Ginger ........ 2 dr. To be given in a pint of oatmeal gruel



			14.

		CHAPTER II. Fever, Putrid, Malignant, Epidemic, JSliirrain or Pest. This destructive malady does not appear to have visited Europe since the year 1744. For an account, or history, of the disease, the reader is referred to a Treatise on Cattle, by John Mills, published by J. Johnson, St. Paul's Churchyard. It appears, that M. Sauvages, the celebrated professor of medicine at Mont- pellier, was an accurate observer of the disor- der, when it raged with great violence in many parts of Europe. He calculated, that of twenty, that were attacked by it, nineteen died; that no certain remedy had been dis- covered, or any effectual mode of prevention, except separating the healthy from the sick: he recommends, however, bleeding and purg- ing, at the commencement of the disorder, with setons in the dewlap. After the opera- tion of the purgative, he considers opiates, aromatics, &c, such as caraway seeds, ginger, sascarilla, &c, as the most proper rn.edicin.es.



			15

		CHAPTER in. Catarrh, or Cold; Catarrh, Epidemic J ; Influenza, Distemper, or, according to J})\ Clater, Fetton. Colds .are very common, particularly in wet or cold weather; and, though they are often thought of too little importance to require particular attention, yet, by neglecting them* and suffering the animal to continue exposed to the weather, the most serious consequences may ensue. From such neglect, wc often find, that the animal gradually declines in flesh and strength, becomes hidebound, and has a rough, .staring coat; at length tubercles form in the lungs, the mesenteric glands become enlarged, obstructing the passage by which nutriment is conveyed to the blood: this is succeeded by atrophy, consumption, and death. It is highly important, therefore, to attend to this disorder, as soon as it is discovered; mid I believe it may be safely asserted, that more good may be done by nursing, placing the animal in a w^rm



		CATARRH, OR COLD. 17 curious farrago, for one dose, which is to he given, in a quart of gruel and a pint of ale, once or twice a day, till the disease is removed. " Nitre........ 30Z, Salt of tartar..... 1 oz. Camphor...... 2 dr. Valerian...... . 1 oz. Liquorice powder andanise, of each...... 1 oz. Turmeric...... 1 oz. Juniper berries . : . . 1 oz. Mustard...... . 2 oz." From this specimen one might reasonably conclude, that Mr. Skerrett is a druggist, as well as a cow-doctor. Clater recommends, with other seeds, &c, " long pepper, turmeric, and ginger, of each one ounce, with a quart of ale and two ounces «f butter." Bleeding, at the commencement of colds, is generally proper; the only circumstance, which indicates it's impropriety, is considera- ble weakness, and low condition. The quan- tity of blood taken should seldom exceed twa quarts. If the animal is costive, give a laxa-



		CATARRH, O'A COLD. 19 should the animal, by a change of situation, become hot and feverish, should the eyes look red and the flanks move quickly, he should be bled freely; and if in any degree costive, the laxative should be given. This, however, does not often happen, except the costiveness, which may be expected from a change of diet; the laxative, therefore, is often proper: but when there are no feverish symptoms present, it should be mixed with some cordial medicine, such as one ounce of caraway seeds, and three or four drams of ginger. When the influenza, or distemper, has not b«en attended to, or has been improperly treated, at an early period, the animal becomes extremely weak, and every means must be employed to recruit his strength. On such occasions, the following tonic may be given twice or three times a day, which, in conjunc- tion with a warm, nourishing diet, and careful attendance, may ultimately effect a recovery. It is proper, however, to observe, that, if the animal should become costive, a mild laxa- tive will be proper; about half a dose will be sufficient. If grass can be conveniently pro- cured, when the animal is kept under cover, a moderate quantity will be useful. In favours-



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	20	DISEASES OP CATTLE.

ble weather, the field is the best place j but a sheltered and warm situation should be chosen. LAXATIVE. Sulphat of soda (Glauber's salt) 1 lb. Oatmeal gruel..... 1 qt. Powdered caraway seeds . » 1 oz. Mix, for one dose. Before this subject is dismissed, I wish to impress upon the reader's mind, that, whenever this disease appears to be epidemic, preventive measures should be seasonably adopted, which is more particularly necessary when rain and cold winds prevail; that catarrh, or cold, IB often an insidious complaint, and, if neglected, may produce very serious consequences; and, that much more good may be done, by the management we have pointed out, than by the most popular cattle medicines. Whenever caraway, or any of the aromatic seeds are employed, they should not be pur- chased in powder, as they do not keep well in this form.



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		CHAPTER IV. Inflammation of the Lungs. This disease most commonly occurs to working cattle, from overexertion; or from being put into a stall, or suffered to drink largely of cold water, immediately after work- ing hard, and when in a state of perspiration. It may arise, also, from exposure to cold and rain, or from sudden changes of weather; it is to this latter cause, indeed, that the greater part of the internal diseases of cattle may justly be attributed. It is highly necessary, therefore, to have shelter yards, sheds, or in- closures, where cattle may be occasionally pro- tected from the inclemencies of the weather. Such accommodation is absolutely indispensa- ble for such as may be attacked by this or any other internal complaint; without it, medical treatment will avail nothing. This disease often begins with shivering, loss of appetite, and a striking appearance of anxiety or depression;



		22 »I3EAS�S Of CATTLE. but the most distinguishing symptom is an in- creased motion of the flanks, or quickness of breathing. The pulse is more frequent than natural; but small, and not easily felt. On lifting the upper eyelid, it's under surface will be found unusually red, sometimes ap- proaching to orange colour. If the disease happens to a milch cow, she soon loses her milk; and the ears, legs, and horns, are gene- rally cold. Early bleeding is the grand re- medy, in this complaint; but it must not be done sparingly. A cow, or ox, in tolerable condition, may lose from four to six quarts with advantage; and, if the symptoms do not abate in four or six hours, the operation should be repeated, to the extent of three or four quarts, unless the animal faint; whenever this occurs, on any occasion, the bleeding of course must be stopped. Faintness, however, when the disease is really inflammation of the lungs, is by no means an unfavourable effect of bleed- ing ; it is a proof, that the operation has been carried to it's full extent, and a recovery is more likely to happen. A large seton should be put in the dewlap, and moistened with oil of turpentine; and the sides should be well rubbed with the following embrocation.



		INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS. 23 Take of flour of mustard . . 4 oz. Oil of turpentine . . ; . . 2 oz. Water of ammonia .... 2 02. The whole to be mixed with as much water, as will bring it to the consistence of cream. Immediately after the bleeding, give the fol- lowing drink. Take of camphor , , � 2 dr. Nitre.......1\| oz. Powdered caraway seeds . 1 oz. To be given in a pint of gruel. Should the animal be costive, a clyster should be thrown up, consisting of about three or four quarts of warm water, and half a pound of common salt. A pint of castor oil, also, may be added to the above drink; if this can- not be procured, sweet oil, linseed oil, or even melted lard, may be substituted. It is a bad plan to take only a small quantity of blood daily, or every other day, as has been advised by Dr. Clater and others; for though it may sometimes retard the progress of the inflammation, yet the animal will eventually ^be destroyed by it. With respect to the sti-



		INFLAMMATION OP THE LUNGS. 25 °t the blood and humours; for the glands cease to secrete the bile, which is not poured into the intestines, but deposited on the skin," &c. If D_r< ciater meant only to astonish his readers by a grand display of his medical learning, all this nonsense might do very well; but, as he professes to write merely for the purpose of teaching them how to cure the dis- eases of cattle, it is certainly superfluous, to say the best of it. Inflammation of the lungs ^ls a term, that has, unfortunately, been too often applied to diseases of a different kind j and it is from this errour, perhaps, that strong stimulating medicines have been recommended on such occasions. There is an affection of the lungs and parts connected with them, which will not admit of the copious bleeding I have recommended; but the symptoms are Widely different. There is not that difficulty and quickness in breathing; the pulse is weak, but not much quicker than usual; the kernels, or glands, about the throat, are often swollen; sometimes, there is considerable difficulty in swallowing, which is particularly seen, when tbe animal attempts to drink: in short, this is nothing more than a severe degree of catarrh, or cold: but, even in this complaint, moderate vol. iv. _c