Page:The Hog.djvu/111

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109
DISEASES.

to induce vomiting. Strict attention to diet will be requisite for some time afterwards. No stimulating food should be given; the water should be slightly nitrated, and the animal bled at least every three months.

INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN.

Inflammation both of the substance and of the membranes of the brain is by no means of unfrequent occurrence, and almost invariably follows an attack of apoplexy. It is also induced by heating or exciting or indigestible food, as an over-feed of grains, or new corn, &c. The precursory symptoms are dullness, redness of the eyes, and disinclination to move; but as the inflammation becomes more intense the animal runs wildly to and fro, seems blind and unconscious where he is going, runs against every thing; the pulse is small and rapid; and the breathing slightly accelerated. The first thing to be done is to bleed, from the palate if possible; if not, or if sufficient blood cannot be obtained from there, let incisions be made in the ears, and these repeatedly washed with warm water, which materially increases the bleeding. Magn. sulph. with ginger should be given internally as a purgative. Enemas (clysters) have also a beneficial effect, and then the animal should have repeated cooling doses of sulphur. Castor oil and jalap have been given as purgatives; and the system stimulated by the application of a blister to the throat.

PHRENITIS.

This is a disease very much resembling the last mentioned, and is often called brain-fever or frenzy; it arises pretty much from the same cause; all excitants of the system, all things which tend to drive the blood to the head, will induce it. The symptoms are prostration of strength, blindness, frenzy, and often convulsions. The treatment must consist in copious bleedings and strong purgatives, which should be followed up by doses of sulphur to keep the bowels open. Croton oil with tincture of ginger has been given in extreme cases, and with beneficial effects. The dose for a moderate-sized animal is about two minims of croton oil and one dram of tincture of ginger.

SPINAL CORD.

Next to the diseases of the brain follows a consideration of those arising from the spinal cord. This proceeds from the brain to the tail, and is divided by a central line on the upper and under surface throughout its whole extent, forming it into two separate columns, each of which has been proved to possess a distinct and separate function, the inferior surfaces being connected with voluntary motion, and the central ones on the upper surface with sensation.