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Veterinary 
 Obstetrical Compendium 
 
 FEMALE GENERATIVE ORGANS 
 
 The genital organs of the female are much more com- 
 plicated than those of the male, because of the far greater 
 share they take in the process of generation. They are 
 usually described, according to their situation, as external 
 and internal. 
 
 These organs may be enumerated as follows : The ex- 
 ternal organs consist of the vulva and udder (mammae), 
 the internal organs of the vagina, womb, Fallopian tubes 
 and ovaries. These organs will be described in the above 
 mentioned order. 
 
 EXTERNAL ORGANS OF GENERATION. 
 THE VULVA OF THE MARE. 
 
 THE VULVA is the external orifice of the generative 
 organs, which appears as a vertically elongated slit, situat- 
 ed beneath the anus, and between the posterior margins of 
 the two hind quarters. It presents two thick lips (labia), 
 and two angles (Commissures), externally; and internally 
 it forms a cavity which is continuous with that of the 
 vagina. 
 
 THE LIPS (labiae vulvae) are usually in contact, and 
 they, with the opening which separates them (rimae vul- 
 va) , vary in size according to age and condition. They are 
 
8 
 
 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 slightly prominent and thick, being composed of firm, 
 flexible, and elastic tissue, which is covered with a fine, 
 smooth skin destitute of hair. Internally, they are cov- 
 ered by mucous membrane, a continuation of that lining 
 the vagina, and which is constantly lubricated by a greasy 
 mucus possessing a special odor, according to the species 
 of the animal; on the free border of the vulva this mem- 
 brane and the skin meet. 
 
 THE ANGLES situated at the junction of the lips 
 
 Fig. 1. 
 
 THE GENERATIVE ORGANS OF THE MARE. 
 
 1, Body of the Womb; 2. 2. Horn of the Womb; 3, Vagina; 4, 
 Bladder; 5, Rectum; 6, Round Muscle of the Anus; 7, Constrictor 
 Muscle of the Vulva; 8, Bulb of Vagina; 9, Ovary and Fringe-like 
 prolongations (Fimbriae) of Fallopian Tube; 10, Fallopian Tube; 
 11, Kidney; 12, 12, Broad Ligament. 
 
 above and below are the two angles. The upper angle 
 (superior commissure) is situated close to the anus, from 
 which it is only separated by a narrow space — the (per- 
 inaeum). It is very angular. The lower angle (inferior 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 9 
 
 commissure) is obtuse, rounded and more voluminous; it 
 lodges the clitoris which is a small organ, from two to 
 three inches in length; its free extremity is enveloped in a 
 mucous cap, which is plicated in different directions; and 
 towards the center of this organ is found a cavity con- 
 taining sebaceous matter, and which represents that in the 
 extremity of the male penis. In every respect the clitoris 
 resembles that organ, having a fibrous frame-work, erectile 
 tissue, vessels, and a pair of muscles, the (erectores clitor- 
 idis). This organ is more especially the seat of venereal 
 excitation during sexual intercourse (coition). It is pres- 
 ent in all the domesticated female animals, and is fre- 
 quently erected while they are in "heat," as well as in 
 the act of copulation. It is abundantly supplied with 
 nerves, which endow it with most acute sensibility. 
 
 Toward the termination of pregnancy, the lips or labia 
 becomes tumified and soft, the lower angle descends, the 
 vulvar opening is enlarged, and from it is discharged a 
 quantity of tenacious stringy mucous. In ordinary cir- 
 cumstances the vulva is retracted, and with Mares which 
 have foaled several times the lips usually exhibit as many 
 wrinkles or folds as parturition has been frequent. 
 
 DIFFERENCES IN THE VULVA OF OTHER 
 ANIMALS. 
 
 COW. 
 
 In the Cow the lips of the vulva are larger, softer, and 
 thicker than in the Mare, and the lower angle which is pro- 
 longed into a curved peak, is furnished with a tuft of hair. 
 The clitoris is longer, and more tortuous and slender than 
 in the Mare. The same changes occur in the vulva of the 
 Cow as in the Mare during heat, and towards the termina- 
 tion of pregnancy; the mucus secretion of the vagina is 
 more abundant in the Cow, however, and persists longer. 
 
10 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 SHEEP. 
 
 In the Sheep which has not copulated, a filamentary 
 band, stretching across the constriction between the 
 urinary-genital canal and the vagina, represents the hy- 
 men. And the clitoris protrudes immediately within the 
 peak of the vulva. 
 
 PIG. 
 
 In the Pig, the upper angle of the vulva is still more 
 acute and pointed than in the Cow and Ruminants in 
 general. The clitoris is comparatively small. 
 
 BITCH AND CAT. 
 In the Bitch the vulva is triangular, and the lower 
 angle is acute. The clitoris is a small tubercle. In the 
 Cat a small cartilage or bone exists in the clitoris; this is 
 not found in any of the other domesticated animals. 
 
 THE PERINAEUM. 
 
 THE PERINAEUM is the name given to the space 
 between the upper angle of the vulva and the lower margin 
 of the anus. Its length varies in different species, and in 
 different sized animals of the same species; but it is shorter 
 in creatures which have produced young than in those 
 which have not. Externally it presents a smooth, fine, 
 and very elastic skin, with the vertical prominent line 
 passing down its middle — called the "raphe," beneath 
 this are fatty tissue, various muscles, bloodvessels, and 
 nerves. 
 
 THE BULB. 
 
 The internal limits of the vulva are defined by the bulb, 
 which forms a marked prominence in early life, but tends 
 to disappear in relaxed folds after the animal has brought 
 forth young several times. The dimensions of this aper- 
 ture are rather adapted for the passage of the young than 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 11 
 
 the penis; though its narrowness is sometimes an obstacle 
 to the delivery of the young. The head, body or limbs of 
 the young are at times arrested at the upper angle, which 
 they so distend as to threaten laceration of the perinaeum. 
 In emaciated animals, and particularly Mares, the vulva is 
 deeply retracted, and consequently disposes them to be 
 injured in this region during copulation, by the accidental 
 introduction of the male organ into the anus — the me- 
 chanical action of which damages, and may even rupture, 
 the rectum, which occurrence has terminated in the death 
 of Mares. 
 
 THE UDDER (MAMMAE) OF THE MARE. 
 
 THE UDDER is composed of glands destined to se- 
 crete the fluid — milk — which is to nourish the young 
 animal for some time after birth. In early life the udder 
 is rudimentary, but becomes developed with age, and 
 attains its full dimension when the female is capable of 
 reproduction; and especially at the full period of gesta- 
 tion, when its function is about to be carried on actively. 
 After the delivery of the young, the largest development 
 of the udder is reached, and when the young creature has 
 completed its term of sucking, the udder becomes inactive 
 and diminishes considerably in size. The Mare has two 
 udders, which are placed beside each other, about nine 
 inches in front of the vulva, where they take the place of 
 the scrotum in the male. Externally they appear as two 
 hemispherical masses, separated by a shallow furrow; 
 each has in its center a conical, slightly flattened prolong- 
 ation named the teat or nipple, which is perforated by 
 several orifices from which the milk escapes, and by which 
 the young creature obtains that fluid by suction. The 
 glands of the udders are retained in their position by 
 the fine, thin skin covering them, which is destitute of 
 
12 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 hair at the extremity of the teats, though elsewhere pro- 
 vided with a soft, short down. 
 
 The milk reservoirs (galactophorous sinuses) are sit- 
 uated slightly above the base of the teat, and are generally 
 two in number — one in front, the other behind; though 
 there are sometimes three, and even four. These reser- 
 voirs nearly always communicate with each other, and 
 are prolonged into the teat by a corresponding number 
 of terminal and independent excretory canals, whose or- 
 ifices are always very narrow, and are seen at the free 
 extremity of the teat, which is obtuse and rounded. These 
 excretory canals are much wider at the base of the teat 
 than at the extremity; the orifices are about a line apart, 
 and the canal and orifices are lined by a fine membrane 
 which is continuous with the skin. The length of the 
 teats varies with use. 
 
 MODIFICATIONS OF THE UDDER AT PUBER- 
 TY AND BEFORE PARTURITION 
 IN THE MARE. 
 
 In the young and virgin Mare, the udders are hard and 
 can scarcely be perceived; and their dimensions are not 
 much increased in those which have had only one or two 
 foals, though the teats are usually larger than before. 
 When they have borne several foals, the udder continues 
 somewhat enlarged and pendulous. At the termination of 
 gestation, the udder is greatly increased in size, and in- 
 stead of its being soft to the touch it now feels firm. 
 Shortly before the delivery of the young (parturition) the 
 secretion of milk commences, and soon after that event 
 the glandular cavities become fully distended, and assume 
 their maximum dimensions, which are maintained, with 
 slight variations, during the entire period of lactation. 
 When this period is terminated, the secretion gradually 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 18 
 
 ceases, and the gland again assumes its quiescent condi- 
 tion, and nearly its ordinary size. 
 
 DIFFERENCE IN OTHER ANIMALS. 
 
 COW. 
 In the Cow, as in the Mare, although developed in a 
 single fibrous capsule or sac, is made up of two quite dis- 
 tinct glands — or "quarters," as they are generally termed 
 — and which can be seen, or felt, by a slight depression. 
 
 Fig. 2. 
 
 SECTION OF UDDER OF COW. 
 
 a, Front Quarter; b. Back Quarter; g. Septum or Dividing 
 Line Between the Quarters; c, c, Section of the Milk Ducts; d, d, 
 Milk Cistern (Lactiferous Sinus) ; e, e, Orifice of the Teat; f, Large 
 Lymph Gland in the Back Quarter. 
 
 Each gland has its corresponding teat, much more devel- 
 oped than that of the Mare. The Cow really possesses 
 four udders and four teats. In the center and at the base 
 of each teat, there is a single large cavity, which is the 
 general confluent of all the milk ducts, and opens exter- 
 nally through the teat by a single excretory canal. This 
 
14 OhSTETRICS — DoMliSTlCATED AnJMAI.S. 
 
 canal is widest at its commencement, and narrow at its 
 termination at the end of the teat. The walls of the teats 
 are very thick, elastic, and retractile. Not infrequently 
 there are found behind the four teats one or two rudi- 
 mentary teats, which are generally imperforate; though 
 in very rare instances they have been observed to be per- 
 forated and to yield milk. 
 
 The teats of the Cow are generally two and a half to 
 three and a half inches in length; this length varies ac- 
 cording as the animal has reared a large or small number 
 of calves. The two forward teats are generally the longest, 
 and the corresponding quarters furnish more milk than 
 the others. The muscle around the free extremity of the 
 teat, prevents the passive escape of the milk from the or- 
 ifices of the excretory ducts; for if a small canula, scarcely 
 larger than one of these ducts, be inserted slightly beyond 
 the orifice, the milk immediately flows. And when the 
 end of a teat has been wounded, or when the muscle of 
 this part has been divided in the performance of some 
 operation, there is no longer any obstacle to the emis- 
 sion of the milk. 
 
 In the Cow, the secretion of milk can be excited and 
 maintained by regular milking, the only suspension oc- 
 curring before the birth of another calf. 
 
 SHEEP AND GOAT. 
 In the Sheep and Goat there are only two udders, as in 
 the Mare and Ass, but the formation is on the same plan 
 as in the Cow. The udders are somewhat hemispherical 
 and voluminous, particularly in the Goat, and each udder 
 is provided with a single conical, well-detached teat. The 
 cavity or milk reservoir of each teat is very large, the walls 
 of the teat being thin; the milk reservoir is in some in- 
 stances capable of retaining nearly three ounces of milk. 
 
 PIG. 
 
 In the Pig the udders are ten or twelve in number, dis- 
 posed by pairs in two parallel rows. They have not, as in 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 15- 
 
 the larger animals, any milk reservoirs, the milk canals of 
 each teat joining directly to form a variable number of ex- 
 cretory ducts, which open at the free extremity of the 
 teat by from five to ten orifices. The udders of the Pig 
 are scarcely perceptible while they are not active; but 
 during lactation they form two series of well developed 
 eminences divided on the middle line by a wide and deep 
 furrow. 
 
 BITCH. 
 
 In the Bitch there are eight to ten udders, arranged 
 as in the Pig. 
 
 FUNCTIONS OF THE UDDER. 
 
 The secretion of milk is the special function of the ud- 
 der, and takes place in the caecal vesicles of the lobules. 
 The milk is conveyed from these into the milk ducts and 
 milk reservoir, where it is stored until a certain period; 
 this retention after a time distends the glands very much, 
 and puts the elastic envelop greatly on the stretch; while 
 the teats also increase in size, length and firmness. When 
 this distention becomes excessive, it causes the animal 
 uneasiness and pain, and if not relieved by natural or 
 artificial means it may occasion mischief. 
 
 INTERNAL ORGANS OF GENERATION. 
 
 The internal or formative organs of generation are 
 contained within the pelvis and abdomen, and comprise 
 the VAGINA, WOMB (UTERUS), FALLOPIAN TUBES 
 and OVARIES. 
 
 THE VAGINA OF THE MARE. 
 
 THE VAGINA of the Mare is a canal which extends 
 almost horizontally within the pelvic cavity, from the 
 vulva to the womb. (Fig. 1, Sec. 3.) The dimensions of 
 
10 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 Fig. 3. 
 
 GENERATIVE ORGANS OF THE MARE: ISOLATED AND 
 
 PARTLY OPENED. 
 
 1, 1, Ovaries; 2, 2, Fallopian Tubes; 3, Pavilion of the Tube, 
 External Face; 4, Inner Face of Pavilion of the Tube; 5, Ligament 
 of the Ovary; 6, Intact Horn of the Womb; 7, A Horn Opened; 8, 
 Body of the Womb, Upper Face; 9, Broad Ligament; 10, Neck of 
 Womb; 11, Cul-de-sac of the Vagina; 12, Interior of the Vagina; 
 13, Openin]^ of the Urethra (Urinary Meatus); 14, Valve Closing 
 over the Orifice of the Urethra; 15, a Vestige of the Hymen; 16 
 Interior of the Vulva; 17, Clitoris; 18, 18, Lips of the Vulva. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 17 
 
 this canal varies, and the walls are thin. Located above 
 the vagina is the rectum (Fig. 1, Sec. 5), and below it is the 
 bladder (Fig. 1, Sec. 4) ; on each side are the ureters and 
 the walls of the pelvis, and back of it is found fatty and 
 loose connective tissue. Usually the walls or sides of the 
 vagina are in contact. Its length is variable, but in a full- 
 sized Mare is generally about a foot long. Internally it 
 is lined with a thin mucous membrane, which is always 
 abundantly covered with mucous, which is dispsed in 
 longitudinal wrinkles or folds. These folds no doubt fa- 
 vor the dilitation of the canal during copulation, or during 
 the passage of the young, and they are more conspicuous 
 after several births. Along the lower face of the vagina 
 extends a transverse ridge, which covers the orifice of 
 of the urethra (meatus). The membrane lining the va- 
 gina usually has a pale, pink hue but at a period of "heat" 
 its color becomes heightened to a bright red, and its se- 
 cretion is considerably increased. In youth the vagina 
 is contracted. In old age it is much diminished. After 
 copulation its dimensions are increased; in the third or 
 fourth months of gestation in the larger animals, it be- 
 comes elongated from displacement of the womb, which 
 is carried farther forward into the abdominal cavity; 
 toward the termination of gestation the length of the 
 vagina is diminished as the womb acquires increased 
 volume, and to such an extent does this occur that at 
 the commencement of delivery or parturition, if the young 
 creature (foetus) is large, and especially if there be two 
 foetuses, the womb nearly or entirely fills the cavity of 
 the vagina, and even in some instances thrusts it between 
 the lips of the vulva or beyond. 
 
18 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 DIFFERENCES IN THE VAGINA OF OTHER 
 
 ANIMALS. 
 
 THE COW. SHEEP AND GOAT. 
 THE VAGINA in the Cow is longer and wider than in 
 the Mare; the membrane is thicker, and is disposed in 
 transverse folds, and at each side of the passage for a 
 short distance, between the mucous and muscular layers, 
 there exists a mucous Canal that opens into the vulvar 
 cavity, in front of and, at the side of the urethral opening 
 (meatus urinarius). The uses of these canals or passages 
 are unknown, but probably have some function during 
 (foetal) unborn life. These canals are not present in the 
 Sheep or Goat, and rarely in the Mare, which are usually 
 known as the "canals of Gaertner." 
 
 PIG. 
 
 In the Pig the "canals of Gaertner" are not present; 
 the folds of the membrane lining the vagina are longitud- 
 inal, and gradually subside towards the line of separation 
 between the vagina and vulva. The vagina is from eight 
 to ten inches long. 
 
 BITCH AND CAT. 
 There are no "Gaertner canals" in the Bitch or Cat. 
 The vagina is of comparatively great length, and has 
 longitudinal folds, which are interrupted by transverse 
 folds. In both the Bitch and Cat the canal is wider 
 towards the vulva than towards the womb, and the walls 
 of the vagina are rendered very thick by white fibrous 
 tissue. 
 
 THE WOMB, OR UTERUS. 
 
 THE WOMB OF THE MARE. 
 THE WOMB is an elongated muscular membranous 
 sac which receives the ovum, and constitutes the recepta- 
 cle for the nutrition, development, and, finally, after a 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 1» 
 
 certain peroid, the expulsion of the young (foetus). It is 
 situated in the sublumbar region of the abdomen, towards 
 the inlet of the pelvic cavity. Fig. 1, Sec. 1. and Fig. 3» 
 Sec. 8.) 
 
 The womb consists of a body, two horns or two cornua, 
 cervix or neck, cul-de-sac, broad or suspensory ligaments, 
 OS uteri or mouth of womb. 
 
 Fig. 4. 
 WOMB, FALLOPIAx\ TUBES. AND HORNS OF THE SHEEP. 
 
 a, Vagina; b, Mouth of the Womb; c, Body of Womb; e, e, 
 Caruncles; f, Confluence of the Horns; g, Intact Horn; h, h, Fal- 
 lopian Tubes or Oviducts ; i, i, Fringe-like End of Fallopian Tube 
 (Fimbriae); k, k. Ovaries; m, m, Broad Ligament; o, Horn Opened. 
 
 THE BODY of the womb is situated horizontally be- 
 neath the rectum, which is in contact with it after passing 
 between the two horns; on each side of its upper external 
 
20 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 face it receives the insertions of the wide ligaments; and 
 its sides and front face are in contact with the intestines. 
 Its lower surface is in contact with the bladder and the 
 colon; while its anterior extremity is continuous with 
 each horn, and the posterior is separated from the vagina 
 by the constriction named the cervix, or neck of the womb. 
 
 THE HORN OR CORNUA (Fig. 1, Sec. 2, and Fig. 3» 
 Sec. 6, 7) are cylindrical tubes extending from the body 
 of the womb in two upward curves — a convex curve, 
 which is free, and a concave curve, to which the suspens- 
 ory ligament is attached. Each horn has also a base 
 which is a continuation of the body of the womb; and a 
 summit, rounded into a cul-de-sac, which is turned up- 
 ward, and has at the bottom a small tubercle, the inser- 
 tion of the oviduct. 
 
 THE BROAD OR SUSPENSORY LIGAMENTS 
 (Fig. I, Sec. 12, 12, and Fig. 3, Sec. 9) are two menbran- 
 eous bands which suspend the womb from the sublumbar 
 region. These bands are larger in front than behind, and 
 in shape are irregularly triangular; behind they are close 
 to each other, but in front diverge like the sides of the 
 letter V. The suspensory ligaments descend from the 
 lower face of the lumbar region, and attach themselves, 
 by their lower border, to the sides of the upper surface 
 of the body and concave curve of the horn. Their front 
 border is free and sustains the oviducts and ovaries. 
 
 THE CAVITY of the body of the womb communi- 
 cates with the vagina by a narrow canal which traverses 
 the neck of the womb, and is designated the canal of the 
 cervix, or neck of the womb. 
 
 MOUTH OF THE WOMB (os uteri)— In the neck or 
 cervix of the womb is the opening commonly termed the 
 mouth of the womb. This opening leads from the vagina 
 to the body of the womb. (Fig. 4, b.) 
 
 THE GLANDS located in the mucous membrane of 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 31 
 
 the womb, called utricular glands, are cylindrical in shape, 
 and are situated very close to each other. They are long, 
 slender and tortuous, and divide repeatedly in the deeper 
 part of the mucous membrane. These glands do not exist 
 at birth, and it is probable that they are only fully de- 
 veloped when sexual maturity is reached. At certain 
 periods, as during "heat," they throw out a large quan- 
 tity of very viscid, almost transparent, mucus. These 
 glands are secreting structures, and during gestation play 
 a most important part, becoming largely developed, and 
 furnishing a thin, white, albuminous fluid, the so-called 
 uterine, or "womb milk." This milky secretion comes 
 more particular in contact with certain portions of the 
 Foetal Placenta, or after-birth, in which are curious pock- 
 ets that act as receptacles for this milk, which is absorbed 
 by the vessels on their walls. 
 
 DIFFERENCES IN THE WOMB OF 
 OTHER ANIMALS. 
 
 COW. 
 
 THE WOMB of the Cow, with regard to its general 
 disposition in the pelvic and abdominal cavities, does not 
 offer any striking differences from that of the Mare, ex- 
 cept that the body is short, and its interior space is much 
 less than that of the Mare's womb. The neck of the womb 
 of the Cow is from two and one-half to three and one-half 
 inches in length; it is narrow, almost as firm as cartilage 
 in texture and irregular in shape. At an early age the 
 neck is nearly circular in shape, and the body of the 
 womb is so small that the neck and horns are close to- 
 gether, or joined to each other. Toward puberty, how- 
 ever, in all the larger domestic animals it becomes spin- 
 dle shaped, and shows two lips, about two inches in 
 length. These lips are composed of flattened, dense, 
 transverse fibers and are pulpy to the touch. The mouth 
 
22 Obstetrics — DoAtESTicvTED Animals. 
 
 of the womb, (os uteri), is located between these lips. A 
 knowledge of the presence of the two lips of the neck of 
 the womb, and also their position, is useful when explor- 
 ations by hand are necessary in cases of inversion of the 
 womb. The utricular glands are wider than in the Mare. 
 The walls of the womb in the Cow are more dense than 
 in any of the domesticated creatures. 
 
 SHEEP AND GOAT. 
 In the Sheep and Goat the disposition of the womb 
 is similar to that of the Cow. The horns are relatively 
 longer, and more pendant, and expand more gradually 
 from the termination of the oviducts. 
 
 PIG. 
 
 In the Pig the horns of the womb are long, and float 
 among the intestines, which they resemble; the body of the 
 womb is very short. The mouth of the womb is marked 
 by a series of narrow, close-set, longitudinal surfaces, but 
 there is no lip projection into the vagina. 
 
 BITCH AND CAT 
 In the Bitch and Cat the horns are very long and slen- 
 der. The mouth of the womb is a smooth, thick and even 
 prominence, larger almost than the body of the womb, 
 which is short. It projects very markedly into the vagina. 
 
 FALLOPIAN TUBES OR, OVIDUCTS. 
 
 MARE. 
 THE FALLOPIAN TUBES, or OVIDUCTS, of the 
 Mare (Fig. 1, Sec. 10, and Fig. 3, Sec. 2, 2), are two small, 
 cylindrical, fiexuous canals, about ten inches long, white 
 in appearance, one of which is lodged in each broad lig- 
 ament, between its serous layers and near its front bor- 
 der. Each tube commences at the extremity of the horn 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 23 
 
 of the womb, and terminates upon the ovaries. The 
 calibre of this canal is small, and scarcely admits a thin 
 straw at its middle portion, and it is still smaller at the 
 womb extremity; as it approaches the ovary, it increases 
 in width until it ends in the pavilion. (Fig. Sec. 3.) This 
 pavilion is fixed to the external side of the ovary, and its 
 inner surface is marked by numerous narrow, close-set, 
 minutely folded fiat surfaces, while its circumference is 
 irregularly disposed into a number of unequal, fringe-like 
 prolongations (Fig. 1, Sec. 9), which hang into the ab- 
 dominal cavity. 
 
 THE FUNCTIONS OF THE FALLOPIAN TaBES, 
 or OVIDUCTS. — Their function is to convey the form- 
 ative agents furnished by the male in generation to the 
 ovary in the first instance, and afterwards to transmit 
 the impregnated ovum of the female to the womb or its 
 horn; in this respect they are the excretory ducts of the 
 ovaries. 
 
 DIFFERENCES IN OTHER ANIMALS. 
 
 COV\r, SHEEP AND GOAT. 
 In the Cow, Sheep and Goat, the fringe-like extremity 
 of each tube is expanded (Fig, 4. i, i), and the duct itself 
 forms three or four wavy folds, and is then continued 
 along the walls of the wide ovarian capsule, or sac, to 
 the extremity of the horn of the womb, which makes an 
 abrupt curve to meet it. 
 
 PIG. 
 
 In the Pig the oviduct has few or no inflections, but 
 its length is proportionately greater than in the other 
 species. The pavilion is wide and deep. 
 
 BITCH. 
 In the Bitch the tube is long and fine, passes in a 
 wavy course around the front of the ovary to the womb. 
 
24 
 
 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 The length of the tube is two and a half to three and a 
 half inches. 
 
 THE OVARIES. 
 
 OVARIES OF THE MARE. 
 THE OVARIES (Fig. 3, Sec. 1, 1) are the essential 
 organs of generation in the female, and analagous to the 
 testicles of the male. The ovaries are two elongated egg' 
 shaped bodies, loosely suspended in the sublumbar re- 
 gion, behind the Fallopian tubes and the kidneys, among 
 the convolutions of the intestines, though sometimes their 
 position is altered. The proper tissue or stroma of the 
 ovary is solid and hard, and has a speckled-grey tint, and 
 
 Fig. o. Fig. (i. 
 
 OVARY OPENED VERTI- PORTION OF OVARY OF 
 
 CALLY. A PIG. 
 
 a, a, b, b, Graafian Vesicles at a, Point at which a ripe Ovum 
 
 different stages of de- is about to escape ; b, opening 
 
 velopment. by which an 0\aim has escaped 
 
 contains in its substance the Graafian vesicles or follicles. 
 These Graafian vesicles (Fig. 5) are generally in various 
 stages of development; the smallest are situated near the 
 surface, and they increase in volume as they descend 
 toward the deeper layer. When they have reached their 
 full growth, they are filled with a transparent, citron- 
 colored fluid, and form a more or less prominence on the 
 surface of the ovary. The Graafian vesicles are com- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 25 
 
 posed of an envelop or sac, the contents of less promin- 
 ence on the surface of the ovary. The Graafian comes 
 reddened by an admixture of blood when the sac ruptures. 
 At the bottom of the sac, epithelium forms an aggre- 
 gation, in the center of which exists the ovum. When the 
 Graafian vesicle of the ovary ruptures and expels the 
 ovum, the fringe-like ends of the Fallopian tube grasp 
 the ovary, and receive the ovum, which they carry to 
 the ovarian extremity of the canal. 
 
 THE OVUM, or Egg — Anatomists give the name ova 
 to round vesicles containing a humor similar to the yolk 
 of egg, which are situated in the ovaries of the female, 
 and when fecundated by the male germ of generation con- 
 stitutes the rudiments of the young (foetus). The ovum 
 is a small cell surrounded by a thick white mem- 
 brane (zona pellucida) ; within this membrane is a granu- 
 lar layer, the yolk, (or vitellus), the larger granules of 
 which are superficial and compact, while internally it is 
 a transparent albuminous fluid, in which are but few 
 granules. Enclosed in this yolk, though nearer its cir- 
 cumference than center, is the nucleus — the female gen- 
 erative germ (vesicle of Purkinje), the most important 
 portion of the ovum. 
 
 DIFFERENCES IN THE OVARIES OF OTHER 
 ANIMALS. 
 
 COW, SHEEP AND GOAT. 
 
 In the Cow the ovaries are relatively smaller than in 
 the Mare, but their form and structure are the same. The 
 same arrangement is observable in the Sheep and Goat. 
 
 PIG. 
 
 In the Pig the ovaries are comparatively large, with 
 an irregular aspect, due to the Graafian vesicles, which 
 when well developed, project beyond the surface of the 
 ovary, instead of remaining within it. Each ovary is 
 
26 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 enclosed within a sac. The back or posterior wall of 
 this sac appears to be formed by the wide and deep pa- 
 vilion of the Fallopian tube. 
 
 BITCH AND CAT. 
 
 There is nothing particular to indicate in the ovaries 
 of the Bitch and Cat, except that the ligaments sus- 
 pending them to the spine are very short. 
 
 DEVELOPMENT OF THE OVARIES AND OVA. 
 
 The development of the OVARIES and OVA is very 
 interesting. In the Mare the ovaries of the foetus are, 
 when compared with the womb, of an immense size, and 
 at six months are almost as large as in the adult. In 
 aged animals they become shriveled, and it is not unusal 
 in old Mares to find either one or both in an unhealthy 
 condition. Not infrequently they are enlarged, and their 
 fibrous envelop and proper tissue are much thickened. 
 Sometimes the vesicles are greatly enlarged, and con- 
 verted into cysts which contain a purulent fluid, secreted 
 from their walls. 
 
 The Graafian vesicles are present in the ovary of the 
 foetus, but they do not attain their full development until 
 puberty; neither are they all present at birth, but are 
 continually being developed. Until puberty there is no 
 great activity apparent in the Graafian vesicles; but at- 
 this time the ovary becomes more vascular, and certain 
 of these vesicles increase in volume. At the period of 
 "rut" or "heat," one or more of the Graafian vesicles, 
 according to the species of the animal, show evidence of 
 increased vascularity and become distended; the ovisac 
 thins at the most prominent part to which the ovum/ 
 tends, and blood is extravasated into it; then partly by 
 absorption and partly by pressure, the coverings give 
 way, and the ovum escapes outwards, and is eithei re- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 27 
 
 ceived into the Fallopian tube for conveyance to the 
 womb, or, which is very rare, fall into the cavity of the 
 abdomen. After a rupture of a Graafian vesicle and the 
 escape of the ovum, the cavity of the ovisac is filled with 
 a clot of blood, while its walls are thickened and altered 
 in color. In the Cow and Sheep the follicle has a brick- 
 red color, and in the Pig it is a yellowish-brown ; but grad- 
 ually the clot of blood shrinks, loses its tint, and the cavity 
 contracts; at the same time the walls of the ovaries be- 
 come enlarged. By the tim^e the succeeding ovisac with 
 with che ripening ovum has begun to protrude from the 
 surface of the ovary, the old ovisac has lost its color, with 
 much of its dimensions, and fallen inv/ards. This change, 
 with collapse of the wall, depresses the scar of the aper- 
 ture; and these successive shrinkings and scars (cicatris- 
 ations) of the ruptured ovisacs give the ovary a pitted 
 and furrowed appearance in advanced life. 
 
 If the expelled ovum be not impregnated with the 
 male germ of generation, the changes of the ovisac into 
 the yellow convolute cavity, then into the depressed scar, 
 occurs somewhat rapidly; but if impregnation takes 
 place, the maturation of successional ova is delayed, and 
 the first change in the ruptured ovisac goes on to a greater 
 extent, and it rarely happens that the cavity is obliter- 
 ated before full gestation. In the Mare the cavity be- 
 comes obliterated more rapidly than in the other domes- 
 ticated animals, and it has not that deep yellow color 
 observed in the Cow; but is of a darker, dull reddish- 
 brown hue. 
 
 The number of ovisacs and ova which become matured 
 at each "rut" or "heat," depends upon the multiparity or 
 uniparity of the species: in the Mare and Cow there is 
 usually only one, in the Sheep and Goat one or two, in 
 the Pig from one to a dozen, and in the Bitch a variable 
 number. 
 
28 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 OBSTETRICAL PHYSIOLOGY. 
 
 REPRODUCTION. 
 
 Having described the situation, structure, and peculi- 
 arities of the external and internal organs of the female 
 domesticated animals, we now have to inquire into their 
 functions. Some of these functions have for their end the 
 conception, development, and preservation of the young 
 animal for a certain period, until it can maintain a more 
 or less independent existence, when others of them are 
 brought into play in order to place it in direct relation 
 with the external world in the act of delivery (parturi- 
 tion), while others cease. But in order that generation 
 should take place in the higher class of animals, it is ne- 
 cessary that the two sexes be placed in favorable relations 
 with each other, as the essential of reproduction is the 
 contact with, and action of the male fecundating fluid on, 
 the ovum of the female. Nature has ordained that this 
 creative act should be accomplished by engendering in 
 these animals an instinctive, copulative, and irresistible 
 desire at a certain stage of existence; which desire, con- 
 tinuing for only a brief period, is renewed after particular 
 intervals, until the faculty of reproduction ultimately 
 ceases. 
 
 The advent of the power of reproduction in the male 
 and female sex of animals is very unequal among the va- 
 rious species, and is generally in relation to the duration 
 of their existence — the creatures which are short-lived 
 being capable of bringing forth young at an earlier period 
 of life than those which enjoy a longer terms. 
 
 Out of many thousands of ova furnished by the most 
 prolific species, a comparatively limited number only 
 find all the conditions favorable for their development. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 29 
 
 GENERATION. 
 
 GENERATION is the act of procreating the species; 
 (breeding.) The processes by which generation is ac- 
 complished are four; these are: 
 
 Copulation. — Sexual intercourse. Carnal union of 
 the sexes. 
 
 Fecundation. — Act by which, in organized beings, 
 the material furnished by the generative organs of the 
 female unites with that prepared by those of the male, so 
 that a new being results. 
 
 Gestation. — The time during which a female who has 
 conceived carries the young (embryo) in her womb up 
 to the time of delivery. Pregnancy. 
 
 Parturition. — Delivery, labor, birth, bearing young; 
 expulsion of young at term. Act of ;delivery of the young 
 (foetus) and its appendages; also the state during and 
 immediately after delivery. 
 
 But gestation only takes place on the attainment of a 
 certain age — that of puberty (the period of life at which 
 animals become fitted to procreate)— that these sexual 
 acts are in activity, and they continue so for a variable 
 period, according to the species. During this time, ova 
 from the ovaries, fecundated by the male seminal fluid, 
 are received into the womb, and remain there for a regu- 
 lated period, until they have become transformed into 
 young creatures possessing certain physical attributes 
 and resemblances to their parents. This is the gestation 
 period, and is followed by that of parturition, when the 
 young is born. 
 
 PUBERTY. 
 
 The generative organs of the domesticated female 
 animals are, like those of the human female, only in a 
 state of greatest activity during the prime of life ; and the 
 most noticeable characteristic of their functions is their 
 
30 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 periodicity. These functions lie dormant from birth un- 
 til puberty, when, somewhat suddenly, certain very 
 marked modifications occur throughout the whole or- 
 ganism, but particularly in the generative organs of the 
 male and female animals. In the male the testicles be- 
 come more voluminous, and in some species they leave 
 the abdominal cavity to be lodged in the scrotum; they 
 also begin to secrete an abundance of a special fluid, called 
 the spermatic"" or "seminal"fluid, in which appear par- 
 ticles of a definite shape (spermatazoa) wihch are endowed 
 with motion. The organ for the conveyance of this sper- 
 matic fluid to the female becomes more developed, and is 
 capable of complete and frequent erection. In the female 
 the udders enlarge, the ovaries are more vascular than 
 before and the Graafian vesicles are more or less devel- 
 oped. The periodic escape of the ovum from the ovary 
 then begins to be cai.led on, with all the distinctive pe- 
 culiarities that attend it, and which it is to bear during 
 the prolific period of life. 
 
 The age at which animals arrive at puberty or sexual 
 maturity, is not only diffeient in different species, but is 
 influenced to some extent by the rapidity of their growth 
 and the duration d^ their life. And it may be said that 
 puberty is sooner a.lc.ined in the female than in the male. 
 It may also be affi med that in the male the periodicity 
 of the procreative manifestations is not so marked as 
 in the female, the i^^aeiative functions of the male being 
 always more or less in activity. 
 
 The aptitude to procreate, though generally admitted 
 as an indication of adult age, yet appears before animals 
 have attained their full physical development, and is 
 present in some creatures at a comparatively early period 
 of life — depending upon climate, food and other circum- 
 stances. The Pig may conceive when only four or five 
 months old, or earlier; the Sheep and Goat at eight to 
 twelve months; the Bitch at seven to ten months; the 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 31 
 
 Cat at from eight months to a year, though it is usually 
 in "heat" for about ten days before it is a year old; the 
 Cow at twelve to eighteen months, and the Mare at from 
 twelve m.onths to two years. 
 
 With regard to the period v/hen procreation ceases 
 in animals, there is not any reliable data on which to 
 arrive at a trustworthy conclusion. The Mare has not 
 ceased to breed after thirty years of age, and the Cow 
 and Sheep have bred beyond twenty years. There are 
 notes of Mares producing foals at twenty-eight, Iiiity- 
 two, and thirty-eight 3^ears of age. 
 
 HEAT— MEKSXRUATION, or (OESTRUM.) 
 
 The rutting, heat, oestrum, or venereal oestrum of ain- 
 nials is analogous to "m.eiistruation" in woman, and marks 
 the period of maturation in the ovariarx ova or ovum., ac- 
 cording to the species. This condition is intermittent cr 
 periodic, not continuous; it is characterized by a peculiar 
 systemic excitement that usually continues for a some- 
 what definite period in the two sexes. In the m.ale and 
 female, but especially the female, the generative organs 
 become moie or less sensitive, and the secretions are in- 
 creased. In the female there is a determination of blood 
 to the ovaries, and changes take place in these which have 
 already been described. The excitement in the generative 
 apparatus reacts on the whole system, and produces a 
 kind of fever or irritability in the animal; its sensibility 
 is increased; the appetite is more or less in abeyance or 
 capricious, and usually there is thirst; if the secretion of 
 milk has been active, it now diminishes, and in the non- 
 impregnated Eitch milk even appears in the udder; rest- 
 lessness is a notable feature, and the movements betray 
 the prevailing desire. There is an uncontrollable ten- 
 dency to seek the opposite sex; with some animals the 
 ordinary disposition becom.es strangely perverted; and 
 
32 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 in others, again, certain physical changes accompany the 
 sexual perturbation. The Mare is generally irritable or 
 sluggish, and less able to sustain fatigue; the Cow fre- 
 quently bellows and mounts other Cows, and if at pasture 
 runs about with raised tail, and may even wander away 
 in search of the Bull; the Sheep are less excitable, though 
 it shows a change in its habits; the Sow grunts in a pe- 
 culiar manner and becomes torpid, and manifests its 
 amorous desires by mounting others; while the Bitch is 
 still more demonstrative, and frequently runs about ac- 
 companied by a crowd of males, not returning home until 
 her desires have been gratified. 
 
 Attempts at urination in the female are frequent, but 
 only a small quantity of urine is passed, and with animals 
 whose foot is not cloven there are oft-repeated move- 
 ments of the clitoris and vulva, and an opaque white se- 
 cretion, or even emissions of blood is ejected spasmodic- 
 ally by the vulva. Well-marked symptoms of hysteria 
 have been observed in some Mares. 
 
 In other animals this ejection sometimes consists of a 
 viscid, red-tinted fluid. In all it has a special and power- 
 ful odor, which attracts the males, and enables them to 
 distinguish between the females which are in "rut" or 
 "heat," and those which are not, as well as exciting in 
 them the most ardent amatory desires. 
 
 The menstrual flow appears two or three days after 
 the commencement of "rutting," and when this is most 
 intense. The amount of blood does not exceed one or 
 two ounces, and the coagulated clot of blood remains 
 in the vagina until it is expelled with the urine. Not 
 only is the existence of a menstrual discharge in animals 
 a well-ascertained fact, but the ill effects of its retention 
 have been recorded as occurring in both the Mare and 
 Cow. 
 
 Seasons at which "heat" takes place — .It has been 
 observed that "heat" usually takes place in the spring- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 33 
 
 time when food becomes plentiful, especially with Herb- 
 ivorous animals. The Carnivora are in heat during win- 
 ter. The Mare is usually in heat from April to June, or 
 later. With the Cow who is kept for the milk she pro- 
 duces, the season ,of course, varies, as care is taken to 
 induce conception again as soon as the milk secretion 
 begins to diminish; but it has been observed that mid- 
 summer is more particularly the rutting period of the 
 Cow. The "heat" in Sheep, though normally present in 
 September, is usually shown only during summer, be- 
 cause the Ewes are kept apart from the Ram at the nat- 
 ural time; in order that the Lambs may be born at a 
 favorable season — the spring; and the period of suckling 
 over (four or five weeks), that they may be weaned when 
 the herbage is tender and nutritious. When the animals 
 are bred for the butcher, the rut is induced sooner by 
 putting the Ewes in contact with the Ram at an earlier 
 period, so as to obtain two or three lambings in the year. 
 The Bitch is in heat from December to February, or in 
 the autumn and spring-time. The Cat is in the state of 
 heat in January and February, and also in the spring and 
 autumn; sometimes the heat appears three or four times 
 a year ,and the animal may produce young as many times. 
 The Pig manifests rutting in October or November — at 
 least that is the period when it is usually put to the male; 
 and it may be put a second time towards the end of 
 spring, in order to have two litters within the twelve 
 months. 
 
 The frequency and duration of the Period of "Rut- 
 ting" or "Heat" depends upon age, species, and other 
 circumstances. One day is the shortest duration of heat, 
 and fifteen days the longest. The shortest period is wit- 
 nessed in the Cow and Sheep, and the longest in the Bitch. 
 With impregnation it ordinarily ceases until after partur- 
 ition; and if impregnation does not occur, it gradually 
 disappears until the next period, which is somewhat var- 
 iable. Its reappearance in the Cow has been noted every 
 
34 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 month or three weeks, and sometimes at closer intervals. 
 In the Sheep and Pig it lasts from one to two days, and 
 and again appears from the fifteenth to the thirtieth day, 
 usually the thirtieth day. The Mare manifests a desire 
 for the Horse every three or four weeks, which continues 
 for from one to four days. Ordinarily the Bitch is in 
 heat twice during the year; spring and autumn. The 
 duration of this period in the Bitch is usually nine to 
 ten days, but may exist fifteen days. 
 
 Rutting and impregnation may and does occur soon 
 after parturition. The Cow, Ass, and Sheep, and, it is be- 
 lieved, the Mare, will copulate with greater certainty 
 of success on the ninth day after easy labor and partur- 
 ition than at any other time. 
 
 The persistance of the condition of heat for longer than 
 the natural period is a symptom of womb or ovarian de- 
 rangement, and therefore unfavorable. It renders Mares 
 and Cows less serviceable, and repeated intercourse with 
 the male will not always allay the abnormal condition, 
 but frequently aggravates it. Such animals will not 
 breed. In aggravated cases, removing the ovaries (Ova- 
 riotomy) has been practiced, and in the Cow the opera- 
 tion is frequently followed by subsidence of the trouble- 
 some symptoms for a time; in the Mare it is much less 
 successful. 
 
 FECUNDATION. 
 
 The effective copulation of the male with the female is 
 followed by certain remarkable changes in the ovum and 
 generative apparatus of the female, which, at first known 
 as fecundation, conception, or impregnation, ultimately 
 results in the formation of a new creature possessed, to 
 a certain degree, of individual or independent life. The 
 copulation to be effective depends upon the presence, 
 of a healthy ovum in the generative apparatus of the 
 female, and the introduction into the apparatus of the 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 35 
 
 seminal fluid of the special organ of the male. This sem- 
 inal fluid contains the male germ of generation (sperma- 
 tozoa), which is composed of organic particles of a per- 
 ticular shape, and endowed with motion. For concep- 
 tion it is absolutely necessary that the ovum of the fe- 
 male should be brought into contact with these particles. 
 By reason of the movement of the male germ (spermato- 
 zoa), and also doubtless through the aid they receive 
 from the special motion of the hair like-cells covering 
 certain portions of the lining membrane of the womb, 
 when the womb opening is patent, are diffused soon after 
 copulation to the most distant parts of that cavity, and 
 high up in the Fallopian tubes. 
 
 THE WATERS— (LIQUOR AMNII.) 
 
 THE LIQUOR AMNII (Fig. 7, F and D) is an alburn^ 
 inous alkaline fluid contained in the sac, which envelops 
 the foetus during the whole period of gestation. It is in 
 greater or less quantity, according to the period of ges- 
 tation. The fluid is abundant and limpid at an early 
 period; but becomes scantier, viscid, and citron or red- 
 dish-tinted at an advanced stage, when it is adhesive and 
 agglutinates the hair. 
 
 THE USES of this water, the LIQUOR AMNII, are 
 varied and important. It is not very probable that it 
 serves as nutriment for the foetus in the early period of 
 uterine life or early gestation; though it has been found 
 in the stomach of young animals. "The Waters" pre- 
 serve an equable temperature for the young creature; 
 maintain the integrity of its exterior before the skin is 
 covered by the peculiar coating; it also favors the move- 
 ments and developments of the young, by removing it 
 from unequal pressure; diminishes the chance of injury 
 from sudden external movements and shocks, and allows 
 the foetus to obey the laws of gravitation. It also pro- 
 tects the mother from injury by the foetus, towards the 
 
36 
 
 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 termination of gestation. During parturition, this wa- 
 protrudes the membranes; is the primary agent in dilat- 
 ing the mouth of the womb; it also shields the foetus 
 from the direct actions of the contractions of the womb, 
 whose violence might compromise its existence; the wa- 
 ters render the dilation of the mouth of the womb easy 
 and prompt; and, finally, by lubricating the vagina, 
 casues the passage of the young creature through it to 
 be more gentle and expeditious than it would other- 
 wise be. 
 
 Fig. 7. 
 FOETAL MEMBRANES OF THE COW AT MID-TERM. 
 
 WOMB OPENED ON ITS LEFT SIDE. 
 A, Neck of Womb ; B, B, Maternal After-births; C, C. Foeta 
 After-births; D, D, F, F, Liquor Amnii "The Waters"; E, Bladder, 
 of the Urachus; G, Naval String (Umbilical Cord); H, H, Inner 
 Lining (Allantois) of the Outer Water-sac (Chorion), 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 37 
 
 AFTERBIRTH— (PLACENTA.) 
 
 THE AFTERBIRTH, or PLACENTA (Fig. 7, 8 
 and 9) is a soft, spongy, vascular body, adherent to the 
 womb and, connected to the foetus by the navel cord 
 (umbilical cord) . The afterbirth is not in existence during 
 the first period of gestation, but its formation commences 
 
 FOETAL MEMBRANES OF THE GOAT AT FULL TIME: 
 TWINS. 
 
 A, Neck of the Womb; B, Left Horn; C, Right Horn; D, Inner 
 linning (AUantois) of the Outer Envelop or Sac (Chorion) ; E, The 
 second complete Sac enveloping the Foetus; F, Portion of the 
 Wall of the Womb, where the Foetusus come in contact; G, Union 
 of the Two Outer Envelops (Chorion of the Foetuses) . 
 
38 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 perhaps with the arrival of the embryo in the womb. 
 It is generally considered to have two portions, one foetal 
 and the other maternal. The foetal portion consists of 
 highly vascular soft hairy filaments and tufts, containing 
 the inosculating loops of the navel arteries and navel vein 
 of the foetus. The maternal portion consists essentially of 
 a large sac formed by the inner coat of the vascular sys- 
 tem of the mother, into which the maternal blood is 
 poured by the curling arteries of the womb, and from 
 which it is returned by the veins of the womb and after- 
 birth. At an early stage of gestation the after-birth con- 
 sists of a temporary mass of albuminoid substance accu- 
 mulated around the ovum in the womb. When gestation 
 is terminated, the after-birth becomes remarkably rigid, 
 the vessels are obliterated and transformed into fibrous 
 tissue. The formation and lobes of the after-birth varies 
 in different species. In the Cow, Sheep and Goat they 
 are multiple; there being from sixty to eighty after- 
 births of various sizes. 
 
 FUNCTIONS OF THE AFTER-BIRTH. 
 
 THE FUNCTIONS OF THE AFTER-BIRTH are 
 obvious: It is the nutrient and respiratory apparatus dur- 
 ing a portion of the foetal existence in the womb; and for 
 the accomplishment of these functions it must rely upon 
 its intimate and healthy relations with the surface of the 
 womb. The after birth admits of the foetal blood being 
 shown, as it were, to that of the mother and undergoing 
 requisite changes, therefore it serves as the organ of cir- 
 culation as well as respiration and nutrition of the foetus. 
 The Horse, Pig, Dog, and Cat have single after-births, 
 while in the Cow, Sheep and Goat they are multiple. 
 
 (For Illustratione see following page.) 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 39 
 
 Fig. 9. 
 FOETUS OF MARE AND ITS ENVELOPS. 
 A, Outer Water-Sac (Chorion); C, The Second Complete Sac 
 withdrawn from the First, and opened to expose the Foetus; B, 
 Portion of the Navel Cord ; D Foetus. 
 
40 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 NAVEL STRING— (UMBILICAL CORD.) 
 
 THE NAVEL-STRING (Fig. 7, 9) is a collection of 
 vessels which form the means of communication between 
 the mother and the feotus during the existence of the foe- 
 tus in the womb, and which loses its functions when birth 
 occurs. The navel-string is visible at the earliest period of 
 pregnancy, and is formed by the vessels which convey 
 the blood between the foetus and its envelops, chiefly 
 the after-birth. Three vessels enter into the composition 
 of the navel-cord: two arteries and a vein, which are im- 
 bedded in connective tissue, that make them appear more 
 voluminous than they really are. Besides the three blood 
 vessels, the cord contains the duct called the urachus, as 
 well as the extremity of the foetal intestine at an early 
 period. The urachus is an irregularly bulging canal, con- 
 tinued from what is eventually the bottom or base of the 
 bladder. After birth it rapidly contracts, especially at 
 the base of the bladder, until it is quite closed, and nothing 
 is left but the folds of the membrane that sustained it, 
 and which now becomes the middle ligament of the blad- 
 der. It sometimes happens with the foal, but more fre- 
 quent with the calf, that the urachus duct does not close 
 and the urine in this case escapes by the navel. For 
 treatment see Persistence of the Urachus. 
 
 PREGN ANC Y— GE STATION. 
 
 PREGNANCY, or GESTATION, comprises the per- 
 iod during which the female animal carries its young 
 while it is undergoing development. Its consideration 
 is of much moment. 
 
 With the development of the foetus, the womb un- 
 dergoes important changes with regard to volume. Dur- 
 ing and after copulation the womb is congested, and when 
 conception has taken place, the vessels, distended with 
 blood, gradually enlarge to a great size. The same chang- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 41 
 
 es take place in the lymphatics and nerves, which were 
 comparatively small in the unimpregnated state. These 
 changes add to the thickness and desnity of the womb. 
 As the womb increases in volume, it becomes rounder, 
 acquiring a greater capacity, the neck becomes widened, 
 and the proper structure is exaggerated to an extraor- 
 dinary degree. With the increase in volume, weight, and 
 capacity, the womb likewise acquires a higher degree of 
 sensibility, doubtless from the development of the nerves. 
 So that between the neck, the body, and the horn, there 
 is established sympathetic relation that is sometimes not 
 advantageous; for irritation of the neck of the womb, 
 howsoever produced, may bring on violent contractions 
 of the whole organ, and lead to the premature expulsion 
 of the foetus. This expulsion, as is well known, some- 
 times follows copulation; though, as a rule, animals usu- 
 ally do not seek to copulate during pregnancy if left to 
 their own natural instincts. This irritation may also be 
 a consequence of manipulation by the hand of the ex- 
 plorer. 
 
 The contractions of the womb are very powerful, and 
 are analogous to that of the intestines — extending from 
 the extremity of the horn towards the neck with worm- 
 like muscular contractions, particularly in these animals 
 which, like the Bitch and Pig, have very long horns, with 
 the young arranged one after another in them. (Fig. 10- 
 A.) The contractility of the womb, which signifies also 
 its retractility, enables it to contract on itself after deliv- 
 ery, and to nearly obliterate its cavity. This rapid dim- 
 inution in the capacity of the organ closes the orifices of 
 the vessels which open on the internal surface of the womb 
 during the act, and thus prevents fatal haemorrhage. 
 
 The main functions of the powerful contractions of 
 the womb, however, appears to be concerned in the ex- 
 pulsion of the foetus, and then, as at other times, it is 
 entirely independent of the will. Besides, the intensity 
 of the contractions is not always related to the strength 
 
42 
 
 Obstetrics — Dom estic ated Animals. 
 
 Fig. 10. 
 
 THE PREGNANT WOMB OP A MULTIPLE-BEARING AND 
 SINGLE-BEARING ANIMAL. 
 
 A, Multiparous Womb; a, a, Ovaries; b, b, Fringe-like Pro- 
 longation of the Fallopian Tubes; c, c, d, d, Horn of Womb — that 
 on the left contains four Embryos, on the right two, one of which 
 is exposed; e, Body of Womb; f, Vagina; g, g, Ligaments of the 
 Womb. 
 
 B, Uniparous Womb; c. c. Fallopian Tubes; e, Body of Womb; 
 containmg early Ovum of Womb; f, Vagina; g. Mouth of Womb. 
 
 C, Early Ovum of Womb. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 43 
 
 of the animal; pain deadens and paralyzes the contractile 
 force. When the contractions have been vigorous, the 
 womb rapidly diminishes; but if they have been slow and 
 weak, the organ slowly contracts on itself. When the 
 womb does not contract quickly after delivery it is said 
 to be inert, and the cause is to be found in the expendi- 
 ture of its contractile power, either through excessive dis- 
 tention, a delivery too prompt or too slow, or general 
 weakness of the maternal system. By prolonged exer- 
 tion the muscles of the womb become weakened; so that 
 when the act of parturition has been protracted, the con- 
 tractions of the organ become slow and feeble, or cease 
 altogether. Opiates and narcotics generally produce 
 the same effect, and are therefore successfully adminis- 
 tered when the contractions are too energetic or painful 
 during delivery or before abortion. The contractions of 
 the womb are increased or stimulated by irritation of the 
 neck or body of the womb — such as is produced by re- 
 tention of the whole or a portion of the after-birth, tick- 
 ling of the neck of the womb by the finger, friction on 
 the belly, the apphcation of cold to the belly, or the ad- 
 ministration of ergot of rye. 
 
 Not infrequently, if not always, the cavity of the neck 
 of the womb is filled with a plug of thick, adherent, glu- 
 tinous matter, sometimes so abundant that it also occu- 
 pies the vagina, and forms an unpleasant obstacle to ex- 
 ploration, though it does not interfere with parturition. 
 
 With regard to the DIRECTION of the WOMB, it is 
 to be noted that its horizontal position in the domesticat- 
 ed animals obviates those lateral displacements which are 
 so frequent in women. Its weight, and that of its con- 
 tents, maintaining it in position, and in a line with the 
 body of the animal. This direction rarely varies to any 
 appreciable degree, and it is only in a case of hernia at 
 the flank, which is very uncommon, that it inclines 
 to one side. Its only marked inclination is in Cows, 
 
44 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 whose abdomen is very wide and pendulous. Another 
 change in the direction of the womb, is the more or less 
 complete rotation or twisting of the womb on its axis. 
 Numerous cases are recorded which incontestably prove 
 that, during pregnancy, the womb performs a half, or 
 even a complete revolution on itself, producing tortion of 
 the neck of the womb and the back part of the vagina, 
 and consequent strangulation of the womb near the neck, 
 by the suspensory ligaments; so that spontaneous deliv- 
 ery of the young animal by the natural passage is im- 
 possible. 
 
 The alterations occurring in the womb necessarily 
 bring about others in the neighboring organs with which 
 it has mechanical relations. In the Mare and Cow the 
 horn in which the limbs of the foetus is lodged becomes 
 extended and displaces the intestines, pushes the stomach 
 more to the left, rests on the liver, and is an obstacle to 
 the free movements of the diaphragm. The pressure of 
 the enlarged womb exercises on the blood-vessels of the 
 hind limbs and the vulva and rectum, retards the venous 
 and lymphatic circulation; so that towards the end of 
 gestation, and especially in the Mare, there is often con- 
 siderable dropsical-swellings of these parts. This swell- 
 ing is all the more marked, in the Cow as well as in the 
 Mare, when the compression is greatest at the back 
 part of the abdomen. The swelling is always greatest in 
 those cases, in which there is a giving- way of the abdom- 
 inal walls near the arch between the hind legs and above 
 one of the udders, when the womb forms a hernia beneath 
 the skin; then there is seen an enormous swelling at the 
 upper part of the limb. 
 
 The increase in volume and the various changes which 
 the pregnant womb undergoes, bring about alterations in, 
 and frequently derangement of, certain functions. For- 
 tunately these alterations are slow and gradual; so that 
 the different organs concerned generally adapt themselves 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 45 
 
 to their changed condition without much inconvenience. 
 The animal becomes lazy and slower in movement, and is 
 more desirous of quiet and tranquility as gestation ad- 
 vances. These indications are observed at an early period. 
 At the same time the abdomen enlarges and changes in 
 shape; it becomes rounded, and projects below and on 
 each side; while the flanks become hollow, the croup and 
 thighs wasted-looking. In the domesticated animals there 
 are rarely observed those disturbances in the digestive 
 organs so marked at the commencement of pregnancy in 
 woman. On the contrary, immediately after conception, 
 the appetite is increased, digestion is usually easier, and 
 all the formative phenomena seem to acquire increased 
 activity; more use appears to be made of the food in the 
 economy, and there is a notable tendency to fatten. This 
 fattening tendency has been taken advantage of by breed- 
 ers and feeders of animals v/hich are destined more for 
 food than reproduction. In some cases, however, and 
 particularly with the Cow, the appetite becomes some- 
 what depraved, the animals eating soil, gnawing the walls 
 or wood work of their stables, drinking foul water, etc., 
 and very exceptionally there may be vomiting. 
 
 With the increased bulk of the womb, as has been ob- 
 served, the abdominal and thoracic organs experience 
 more or less the effects of the compression it exercises on 
 them. The diaphragm is pushed forward, and diminishes 
 the capacity of the thorax and the expansibility of the 
 lungs; the ribs, encumbered by the weight of the foetus, 
 are raised with difficulty by the muscles of inspiration, 
 so that respiration is frequent and shallow, and the crea- 
 ture is readily "bloT^Ti" and fatigued. Digestion may be 
 somewhat impaired and retarded, and slight constipation 
 is not rare. The strain induced by the womb on the va- 
 gina, and indirectly on the neck of the bladder, causes 
 the attempts to void urine more frequent ; while the com- 
 pression on the liver, explains the mechanical obstruc- 
 
46 Obstetrics — DoMESTiCATiio Animals. 
 
 tion to the circulation and subsequent dropsical swellings^ 
 particularly in the Mare. 
 
 SIGNS OF PREGNANCY. 
 
 The study of the SIGNS OF PREGNANCY is very 
 important. It is sometimes very difficult to speak posi- 
 tively as to the existence or absence of pregnancy. Es- 
 pecially is this the case at the early stage. It has fre- 
 quently happened that animals whose condition was not 
 at all certain have brought forth young, and others have 
 the same without giving rise to any suspicion that they 
 were pregnant. In order to study the signs of pregnancy 
 conveniently, they have been classified as follows: 1. The 
 rational signs; 2. The material signs; 3. The sensible 
 signs. 
 
 RATIONAL SIGNS OF PREGNANCY. 
 
 Usually the first RATIONAL SIGN OF PREGNAN- 
 CY to be observed, is the cessation of "heat" or "rutting," 
 though it is not the most certain sign of gestation, and 
 may even lead to mistakes. The cessation of heat usually 
 manifests itself soon after conception has taken place (six 
 or eight days), by a decrease of the sexual excitement 
 wiiich marks the period of heat; the animal becomes com- 
 paratively tranquil and does not exhibit any desire for the 
 male, neither does she neigh, paw, or show any of the 
 symptoms of heat. If the male approaches, the sexual 
 desires are not excited, and in refusing him the female may 
 even resort to aggressive movements. It has usually been 
 held as a sign of conception, if the female refuses the male 
 soon after copulation, and particularly if a month or two 
 has elapsed, and the Mare is in good condition when well 
 fed. But in some cases the symptoms of "heat" persist 
 for some time after copulation, and the desire of the gen- 
 erative organs is not allayed, although in reality impreg- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 4? 
 
 nation has taken place; and in very exceptional instances 
 the "heat" will return after having disappeared for a 
 certain time. Some Mares which have been pregnant 
 for two or three months, and especially those which have 
 been put to the Stallion early in the year, will exhibit in- 
 dications of "heat" when the weather becomes warmer 
 and the pastures afford more nutriment. When in this 
 state the female may again accept the male, and it may 
 even happen that a second fecundation takes place at 
 this time — thus occasioning those somewhat unusual 
 double conceptions; though if pregnancy is somewhat 
 advanced it is dangerous, and may occasion abortion. 
 
 Stallions exclusively employed for breeding, frequent- 
 ly refuse to approach pregnant Mares in which the "heat" 
 persists or reappears; though this is not always the case, 
 particularly with young Stallions. 
 
 In the Cow, as in the Mare, heat may continue or re- 
 appear after fecundation; though as a rule the male re- 
 fuses to copulate again when the female is in a pregnant 
 condition. The pregnant Mare and the Sheep, as well 
 as the pregnant Cow, manifest signs of "heat"; but the 
 Bull knows the indications of gestation, better than the 
 Stallion or Ram, and abstains from having intercourse 
 with Cows which are in this state. For cattle, therefore, 
 it is an almost certain sign of pregnancy when the Bull 
 refuses the Cow, when she is in heat. 
 
 It has been generally observed that a change takes 
 place in the character of the animal which has conceived, 
 and this sometimes almost immediately after conception. 
 Mares which were previously vicious, troublesome, or un- 
 steady when in "heat," are nearly always gentle and 
 tractable when in foal; the genital excitement, which 
 caused this viciousness, being allayed, they are no longer 
 under its influence. This change, when occurring after 
 copulation, is a valuable sign of successful impregnation, 
 and though it sometimes may fail, yet when present it 
 can scarcely lead to a mistake. If, on the contrary, the 
 
48 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 animal has not been fecundated after one or more cover- 
 ings, if previously vicious its vices become exaggerated 
 when again put to the horse. 
 
 In the Cow similar symptoms may be remarked, 
 though it is not so frequent or marked as in the Mare. 
 
 The other animals are seldom so irritable in their 
 disposition as to lead anyone to notice a similar change 
 in them. 
 
 A tendency to fatten is such a notorious consequence 
 of impregnation that with the Cow and Sheep grazers 
 usually resort to it in order to get these animals in good 
 condition for the market, when they are intended for 
 slaughter. But this aptitude is most marked in the early 
 months of gestation ; for in the Cow towards the last three 
 months, and in the Sheep and Pig at the last month, when 
 the udder begins to enlarge, there is a tendency to lose 
 condition. 
 
 With the progress of gestation, those animals employed 
 in labor for speed or draught lose their vigor somewhat, 
 particularly towards the end of pregnancy; they become 
 "soft," and their paces slower and heavier — consequently 
 they require more urging to make them perform a certain 
 amount of work. Mares trot, gallop, and jump with more 
 fatigue, and yield themselves far less readily to inordinate 
 exercise than before, either because their temperament 
 alters, their instinct urges them to preserve their progeny, 
 or the foetus itself physically embarresses them in their 
 movements. But this is not always a sure sign; for some- 
 times, though rarely. Mares will perform their work with 
 the same energy and speed as before conception, even 
 up to a very brief period before parturition commences. 
 Taken with other signs, nevertheless, this may afford 
 assistance in giving an opinion on gestation. 
 
 During the period of pregnancy, Cattle and Sheep are 
 more tranquil, and rest much ; as do also Pigs and Bitches. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 49 
 
 MATERIAL SIGNS OF PREGNANCY. 
 
 THE MATERIAL OR PHYSICAL signs are those 
 depending upon the changes in volume of the abdomen 
 and the udder. 
 
 The abdomen enlarges in every direction, and at the 
 same time changes its shape. As it becomes larger it de- 
 scends or drops; the flanks become hollow, and the spine 
 appears more concave; while the lateral portions of the 
 croup sink to a noticeable extent. These changes are pro- 
 gressively developed as gestation approaches its term, 
 when they are very evident. 
 
 The enlargement of the udder is a sign which varies 
 considerably in different species. In the Mare and Cow, 
 they begin to increase soon after conception — towards the 
 second and third month. The udder is more prominent 
 and firm to the touch, loses its wrinkles, and the teats 
 are more visible. This appearance is generally only tem- 
 porary and partially disappears, to reappear again more 
 markedly after some weeks; then to subside and show it- 
 self several times during the period of gestation. Be- 
 sides this enlargement of the udder in the Mare and Cow, 
 which may be accepted as a certain indication of preg- 
 nancy, these glands furnish towards the last third of the 
 period of gestation, a yellow, viscid, transparent liquid 
 similar to white of egg, and which can be easily extracted 
 from the teats by milking. In those which have never 
 conceived, manipulation of the teat may furnish a drop 
 or two of a watery-like fluid, but in two or three months 
 after gestation it becomes viscid in consistency. In the 
 last three weeks of pregnancy this liquid sometimes be- 
 comes white and opaque, and is then proper milk. When 
 the animals have been bred several times, the increase 
 in the size of the udder is only noticed in the last days 
 of gestation. In milch Cows, and particularly in those 
 which are not good "milkers," another sign is to be 
 found in the diminution of the lacteal or milk secretions, 
 
50 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 and the shrinking of the udder sometime after concep- 
 tion usually about — the twentieth day. In the pregnant 
 Mare, which still has a Foal running with her, the secre- 
 tion of milk also ceases sometime before parturition ; and 
 the animal appears to be aware of this, for it weans the 
 Foal generally between the sixth and eighth month. 
 
 In the smaller animals the enlargement of the udder 
 and the appearance of the milk are usually remarked 
 earlier, and more regularly, than in the large creatures. 
 In those smaller animals which have borne young, simi- 
 lar changes take place as those observed in the Mare and 
 Cow, but the udder may be later in enlarging. 
 
 It may be noted as an additional aid in determining 
 pregnancy, that with the progress of gestation the mem- 
 brane lining the vulva and the vagina becomes swollen, 
 and assumes a red or bluish-red hue, instead of its usual 
 pink color; and towards the termination of pregnancy, 
 the vaginal secretion is greatly increased; particularly 
 so in the Cow. 
 
 All these numerous signs are by no means to be im- 
 plicitly relied upon, as they are not infallible in proving 
 the existence of pregnancy in every case. However, if 
 all the above signs are manifest in an animal, they es- 
 tablish a very strong presumption, though not an abso- 
 lute certainty, as to its condition. 
 
 SENSIBLE SIGNS OF PREGNANCY. 
 
 Towards the fourth month in the larger animals, the 
 young creature can move. The Sensible signs and in- 
 dications are obtainable by three manual explorations: 
 the abdominal, rectal, and vaginal. 
 
 ABDOMINAL EXPLORATION.— The feel of the 
 abdomen does not yield equally certain results in all the 
 domesticated animals. In those which are small, as the 
 Bitch and Cat, a little careful manipulation will render 
 the presence of the foetus very evident towards the mid- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 51 
 
 die period of gestation; but in the Mare, Ass and Cow it 
 is more difficult, and with these animals it is better to 
 make the examination when they are in a standing po- 
 sition, as the signs are not so perceptible when in a re- 
 cumbent position. The examiner stands on the right 
 side of the Cow, the left of the Mare, with his back towards 
 the animal's head, and applies the palm of his right or 
 left hand against the abdomen, immediately below the 
 f!ank, about eight or ten inches in front of the stifle, and 
 just above the udder, pressing moderately, the other hand 
 resting on the back. At this part of the abdomen a hard 
 voluminous mass can be felt in the womb, while the move- 
 ments of the foetus are perceptible as it stirs at irregular 
 intervals, and causes the jerks and shock of its displace- 
 ments to be communicated to the walls of the abdomen. 
 These movements are strongest in the morning, and are 
 more distinct if the mother is eating or drinking, especially 
 if the water is cold. The young creature can also be ex- 
 cited to movement by the spraying of cold water against 
 the belly, or by the application of the cold wet hand. 
 In the Cow, smart compression of the abdomen with the 
 closed fist at the part just indicated, so as to push the 
 womb upwards and allow it to return with a little force, 
 is also a good method of ascertaining the presence of the 
 foetus, and will prove successful when simple applica- 
 tion of the flat hand will fail. This is most likely to be 
 successful when there is not much food in the stomach. 
 At a more advanced period of pregnancy, in the last two 
 months, the movements of the foetus can be easily ob- 
 served as it jumps about briskly, striking the interior of 
 the abdomen at brief intervals. This, with the other 
 signs at this time, leaves no doubt as to the existence of 
 pregnancy. The foetal movements are never more 
 marked than immediately before abortion, at a late per- 
 iod of gestation; they are then energetic, and to all ap- 
 pearances conclusive. With the smaller animals the 
 same method of abdominal exploration may be resorted 
 
52 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 to, and with the same, or even better results. The per- 
 ceptible movements of the foetus, of course, settle the 
 question as to pregnancy and the vitality of the young 
 creature; but the absence of these movements is not 
 conclusive that pregnancy does not exist, for it has fre- 
 quently happened that the foetus remained insensible 
 to this kind of excitation, and yet was alive at birth. 
 
 RECTAL EXPLORATION can only be successfully 
 carried out in the larger animals, because of the small 
 dimension of the passage in the Bitch and Cat. There is 
 but little danger to the larger animals so long as reason- 
 able precautions are taken not to produce injury; the 
 foetus has even been pushed gently about in the womb 
 without any accident to it or the parent. 
 
 TO EXAMINE the animal by the RECTUM it should 
 be standing, and if dangerous or irritable, the twitch may 
 be applied to the nose, or for safety to the operator the 
 hind limbs must be secured; with the Cow, the nose 
 seized by one hand of an assistant and a horn by his other 
 hand, will be sufficient. By the hand the bowel should 
 be emptied of the dung it may contain, so as to allow 
 the oiled hand and arm of the explorer to be introduced 
 and freely moved about. When the abdomen is large 
 and pendulous, it is useful to place the animal higher 
 before than behind, and to have the lower part of the 
 belly raised by assistants on each side, by means of a 
 sheet or sack, so as to throw the womb backwards and 
 upwards; though in the majority of cases these measures 
 are not necessary. After oiling the arm and hand thor- 
 oughly with clean lard or with sweet oil, pass the hand 
 into the rectum (the last bowel), open the hand, place the 
 palm on the lower surface of the bowel and gently press 
 downward, towards the floor of the abdomen; when there 
 will be felt, if the animal is pregnant, a hard, irregular 
 mass, more or less voluminous, according to the stage of 
 gestation, and capable of being displaced to a certain 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 53 
 
 extent. If parturition is near, the head or other parts 
 of the foetus can be distinguished through its envelops 
 and the womb and bowel walls. But if pregnancy is not. 
 so advanced — say only at the sixth month — the foetus 
 cannot be so readily felt, and it may happen that at this 
 period it is situated low down in the abdomen, or well 
 forward in one of the horns of the womb and lying to one 
 side (nearly always to the right in the Cow) ; so that an 
 inexperienced or careless examiner might miss it alto- 
 gether at the first exploration. This error can be avoided 
 by carefully moving the introduced hand to the right and 
 left as far as the bowel will permit. The foetus should be 
 excited to move, if possible, so as to guarantee its pres- 
 ence. The difficulties are greater if it is desired to ascer- 
 tain whether the foetus is dead or alive. Sometimes we 
 may at once perceive the movements of the foetus in the 
 womb; but at other times it is motionless, and cannot 
 be made to exert itself except by moving and pushing it 
 several times. This, however, is not commendable, un- 
 less performed with the greatest gentleness and care, as 
 serious complications, especially abortion, might be the 
 result; therefore, unless urgent, this should be omitted. 
 
 VAGINAL EXPLORATIONS can only be practiced 
 on the larger animals, and even then it is not so valuable 
 as the exploration by the rectum or bowel. The vaginal 
 examination is made with the animal in the same position 
 as for the bowel examination, and the hand, well lubricat- 
 ed with clean lard or sweet oil, is inserted into the vagina 
 as far as the neck of the womb. In the first months of 
 gestation the womb descends into the abdomen; conse- 
 quently, the vagina is longer and more inclined down- 
 wards in front; while the foetus is bej'ond reach of the 
 hand. Towards the fifth or sixth month, the womb, in 
 expanding in every direction, approaches the vulva, and 
 the canal of the vagina being shortened, the womb can 
 be perceived. The same manipulations as were practiced 
 
54 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 in the bowel, may be employed in the vagina at this time, 
 but the resutls are far from being satisfactory; the va- 
 ginal examination, should therefore, never be preferred 
 to that of the bowel. 
 
 DURATION OF PREGNANCY. 
 
 THE DURATION OF PREGNANCY varies consid- 
 erably in different species of domesticated animals; and 
 even in the same species there are individual variations 
 which, though not very great, are important; so that the 
 exact term cannot be rigorously fixed. 
 
 With regard to the breeds, it has been remarked that 
 the Hungarian Cow averages ten days more than the 
 Dutch Cow. With the male foetus, the duration of gesta- 
 tion is longer than in the case of a female foetus. It has 
 been observed that the male parent has an influence on 
 the duration of pregnancy. For instance, a Mare which 
 has copulated with a thoroughbred Horse will be longer 
 pregnant than when impregnated by a common-bred 
 Stallion; and the Mare which has copulated with the 
 Stallion Ass goes longer than when impregnated by a 
 Horse. The duration of pregnancy also depends upon 
 the age of the female, and her strength and condition; 
 a weakly or much-worn animal does not go so long as 
 one which is strong and well fed. 
 
 The differences in individuals of the same breed or 
 species may be partly accounted for by the fact, that im- 
 pregnation is possible at any time during heat; and if 
 copulation has taken place several times during this con- 
 dition, it is impossible to predict when conception took 
 place, and even when copulation has only occurred once 
 between the male and female, fecundation does not ne- 
 cessarily coincide with this intercourse; as the ovum of 
 the female may meet the male generative germ (sperma- 
 tozoa) in different regions of the system of the womb, 
 and may, therefore, only be fertilized some days after 
 copulation. The time required for the ovum to pass 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 55 
 
 through the Fallopian tube also varies in different ani- 
 mals. In the Rabbit and Guinea-pig, for instance, it 
 takes three days; in the Mare, Cow, and Sheep, four to 
 five days, and in the Bitch from eight to ten days. 
 
 Various circumstances may retard or accelerate the 
 development of the foetus. With some animals it may 
 apparently remain for a number of days in the womb 
 after it is ready for birth, without inconvenience to the 
 mother or itself, just as it may be born several days be- 
 fore the ordinary period without compromising its safety. 
 
 The duration of pregnancy with the Mare is usually 
 eleven months, though it may vary between ten and 
 twelve; with the Cow nine months; Sheep and Goat five 
 months; the Pig is usually pregnant four months, or ac- 
 cording to some authorities three months, three weeks, 
 and three days; the Bitch is pregnant about two months, 
 or from 58 to 65 days; the Cat is pregnant from 50 to 60, 
 62, or even 64 days. 
 
 MULTIPLE PREGNANCY. 
 
 The causes of multiparity are not well ascertained. It 
 may be due to simultaneous ripening of two or more 
 Graafian vesicles, which, rupturing at the same time, al- 
 low the escape of ova they contain, and which may 
 become impregnated at a single copulation. Or a Graa- 
 fian vesicle may contain two or more ova, and these ar- 
 riving together in the womb, may be fecundated at one 
 time. Or it may be that the membrane surrounding 
 the ovum contains two yolks, as sometimes occurs in 
 the fowl's egg. 
 
 Of all the domesticated animals, the Mare is the one 
 which least frequently brings forth more than a single 
 creature at a birth; and when more than one foetus is 
 present, they are usually born dead or die soon after birth. 
 The female Ass more frequently brings forth twins than 
 the Mare; but even in the Ass twins are rare. Double 
 
56 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 and triple births are not unusual in the Cow, the former 
 being far from uncommon. With the Sheep, twins are a 
 very common occurrence; and it is a saying that in a 
 good flock there should be as many Lambs as Ewes, the 
 double births compensating for the losses. The Goat is 
 generally considered an uniparous animal, but it would 
 appear that this is a mistake, as double and triple births 
 may be said to be the rule, and not at all infrequently 
 four are produced. But usually with three or four at a 
 birth, one or more are feeble or born dead. 
 
 A curious fact in connection with the production of 
 twin calves, is that when the young are of both sexes, the 
 female is generally unproductive. It is a fact known, that 
 when a Cow brings forth two calves, one of them a Bull- 
 calf and the other to appearance a Cow, that the Cow-calf 
 is unfit for propagation, but the Bull-calf grows into a 
 very proper Bull. Such a Cow-calf is called a Free- 
 martin, and is commonly as well known among the farm- 
 ers as either Cow or Bull. It has all the external marks 
 of a Cow-calf — namely, the teats, and the external fe- 
 male parts. The Free-martin does not show the least in- 
 clination for the Bull, nor does the Bull ever take the least 
 notice of it. In form it very much resembles the Ox or 
 Spayed Heifer, being considerably larger than either the 
 Bull or the Cow, having the horns very similar to the 
 horns of the Ox. 
 
 POSITION OF THE FOETUS IN MULTIPLE 
 PREGNANCY. 
 
 The relative position of the young, when more than 
 one exists in the womb, is important to give some atten- 
 tion. With regard to each other, it may be said that they 
 occupy four different positions: 1. Each foetus may be 
 isolated and enveloped in its own proper membranes; 2. 
 If there are two foetuses they may have a common en- 
 velop, and otherwise have a second separate sac; 3. Both 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 57 
 
 may be developed in the same cavity and the same amnii 
 or waters, their membranes being common, and no par- 
 tition existing between them ; 4. One foetus may be con- 
 tained within the other by "inclusion," as in monstros- 
 ities. 
 
 In the first above named variety of pregnancy, the en- 
 velops, where they are in contact, adhere together by 
 means of fine connective itssue; the after-births are often 
 
 Fig. 11. 
 TWIN PREGNANCY COW. 
 
 confounded, or united by a kind of membraneous con- 
 nection, though their circulation remains distinct. In 
 such a case the young may be expelled from the womb to- 
 gether; but more commonly, after the birth of the first 
 foetus, the womb contracts on itself, enclosing the re- 
 maining progeny, which may not be bom until some days 
 after. This apparently prolonged retention of the second 
 foetus is generally due to the fact that the first is expelled 
 prematurely, because of the excessive distention exper- 
 
58 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 ienced by the womb; the womb, having thus got rid of 
 its embarrassment and become relieved, can then main- 
 tain the second foetus until the usual time expires. 
 
 If one of the foetuses dies in the womb, the other, 
 being contained in a separate envelop, may continue to 
 live and grow. In somewhat rare cases, the dead foetus 
 remains in the womb, becomes dessicated, and is not 
 expelled until the birth of its companion at the usual 
 period; or, which is more common, it acts in the womb as 
 a foreign substance, the presence of which is irritating, 
 and by inducing contractions of that organ it is extruded, 
 while the living foetus is retained and grows until the 
 normal time for delivery. Death of the foetus in these 
 multiple cases appears to be due, either (1) to the stronger 
 vitality of the one which by attracting to itself a larger 
 share of nutriment, starves the other; (2) to the too con- 
 siderable increase in volume of one foetus, which com- 
 presses the other; (3) or to the separation of the foetal 
 from the maternal after-birth, which, of course, causes 
 an interruption to the circulation of the young animal, 
 and a suspension of nourishment. 
 
 In this variety of pregnancy where the two foetuses 
 have one common envelop, there is only one after-birth; 
 the two having a circulation in common through their 
 after-birth and the navel vessels communicating by their 
 vascular ramifications. In this case the expulsion of one 
 foetus necessarily brings about that of the other. These 
 results may be expected in the second and third variety, 
 before inentioned. 
 
 In the fourth variety, as there are only two instances 
 on record, it will be unnecessary to enter into farther 
 detail. 
 
 HYGIENE OF PREGNANT ANIMALS. 
 
 The hygienic measures to be observed in the manage- 
 ment of animals during pregnancy are, in general, those 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 59 
 
 which should prevail always, irrespective of this condi- 
 tion. But besides these there are a few particular pre- 
 cautions to be attended to, in order that this period may- 
 be safely and successfully passed through, and these pre- 
 cautions are all the more necessary as the period of birth 
 approaches. 
 
 When an animal is believed to be pregnant, it should 
 not be allowed near the male again. With those animals 
 which are employed in labor — as the Mare, and some- 
 times the Cow — it is well not to work them severely 
 nor fatigue them much, and particularly as pregnancy is 
 advanced; and, on the other hand, absolute repose is not 
 advisable. Exercise is most beneficial, and the most dif- 
 ficult cases of parturition occur among animals to which 
 exercise is denied. The pregnant Mare will accomplish 
 ordinary and accustomed work, particularly if it be slow, 
 without any harm, perhaps with benefit, until the seventh, 
 eighth or ninth month, when more care should be ob- 
 served; but moderate exercise should always be allowed 
 up to the period of parturition. Harness is preferable to 
 saddle work for pregnant Mares; and fast trotting, gal- 
 loping, jumping, traveling over broken ground, or severe 
 and sudden exertion, injuries, or shocks of any kind, are 
 to be avoided — in fact, extremes should be guarded 
 against. If the animal must be employed for riding, the 
 use of the spurs should be abandoned, because of the 
 sudden contraction of the muscles which their applica- 
 tion induces, which may lead to abortion. If the Cow is 
 kept for milk production, the milking should cease about 
 the seventh month; though with well-fed Cows it is often 
 prolonged until near parturition. Nevertheless, there can 
 be no doubt that this practice is detrimental to the foetus, 
 by arresting or retarding its development, through di- 
 verting into the udder the materials which should be 
 disposed of in the womb. 
 
 Unemployed animals ought to be regularly exercised 
 by hand. Exercise at pasture is beneficial to all animals; 
 
60 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 even the Pig and Bitch are greatly benefited by 
 movement. 
 
 THE FOOD of pregnant animals is an important con- 
 sideration. Creatures in this condition should be well fed^ 
 and especially if they have to accomplish a certain amount 
 of labor or yield milk. The appetite is generally increased, 
 and there is a tendency to fatten. This tendency should 
 be somewhat guarded against, as it may prove trouble- 
 some, particularly if it is allowed to proceed to an ex- 
 treme degree; when it may retard the development of 
 the foetus, induce abortion, cause difficult parturition, or 
 give rise to serious after-consequences. This precaution 
 is more to be observed in the second than the first halt 
 of pregnancy, when the food should be plentiful, but not 
 in excess, and flesh inore abundant in the animal than 
 fat. Indigestion should be carefully guarded against. 
 The food should be of good quality, very nutritious, easy 
 of digestion, and not likely to induce constipation. Graz- 
 ing on pastures is favorable to the pregnant condition of 
 herbivorous animals, and especially if the land is not too 
 broken, or sloping, and the herbage is good; as they take 
 their own exercise, and breathe a purer atmosphere than 
 that of the stables or sheds. But it must be remembered 
 that they should be protected from damp, fogs, cold 
 rain, stormy weather, etc. If the herbage is not suffi- 
 ciently abundant and nutritive, an additional allowance 
 of other food will be necessary. It is beneficial to add 
 salt to the rations of the pregnant animal, especially in 
 those regions where inflammation of the joints is preva- 
 lent among young animals. The phosphates so necessary 
 for the formation of certain tissues of the body, may be 
 deficient in the herbage; and this may be compensated 
 for by giving as a part of the rations, bran, meal, oil-cake, 
 etc., and even properly prepared bone-dust. 
 
 THE WATER should be pure and plentiful at all 
 times; as then the animal will drink only moderate quan- 
 tities, and when necessary. A point to be particularl}-- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 61 
 
 attended to, is not allowing pregnant animals to drink 
 very cold water, nor eat food at a low temperature. As 
 has been previously stated in this compendium, the foe- 
 tus is extremely susceptible to the action of cold, and 
 abortion is by no means unusual through the careless 
 administration of cold water or cold food. 
 
 With regard to the DWELLINGS, cleanliness is, 
 above all things, necessary to be observed. Near foaling 
 time — three weeks or a month — the Mare should be kept 
 apart in a roomy loose-box, and when convenient, with- 
 in the sight of other Horses with which it has been accus- 
 tomed to associate. The Cow is usually allowed to re- 
 main in its ordinary stall in the cow-shed; but over- 
 crowding and want of space should not be allowed, and 
 every Cow, towards the end of pregnancy, ought to have 
 plenty of room in its stall, if a separate box cannot be 
 allowed. With stalls the floor should slope very little, 
 if any, from before to behind; for if this inclination is at 
 all marked, the weight of the womb is thrown backwards, 
 and this may lead to abortion, prolapsus of the vagina, 
 and even eversion of the womb. The stall should be well 
 bedded, to prevent the animal from soiling itself. Should 
 a case of abortion occur in a stable or shed, among preg- 
 nant Cows, the one which has aborted should be removed 
 at once, and the place it occupied thoroughly cleansed 
 and disinfected, and every trace of the accident most 
 scrupulously obliterated; as without observing these pre- 
 cautions, abortion may be induced in the other Cows. 
 Cows which have indications of approaching abortion, 
 ought also to be removed from the vicinity of other preg- 
 nant animals and kept apart from them so long as there 
 is any vaginal discharge; and the same precautions must 
 be adopted with regard to thorough disinfection and 
 cleansing. It is not advisable to have Cows bring forth 
 among others whose period of gestation has not arrived. 
 Mental and physical TRANQUILITY are essential 
 
62 Obstetrics — Domksticati-:d Animals. 
 
 conditions of successful pregnancy. Harsh or cruel treat- 
 ment on the part of grooms, cow-keepers, shepherds, and 
 others, should be sternly suppressed; and fear, generally 
 produced by young dogs hunting the animals, and par- 
 ticularly pregnant sheep is to be averted if possible. It is 
 advisable not to have animals of other species in the 
 same field or pasture with those that are pregnant, more 
 especially toward the period of parturition. 
 
 Above all, it is necessary to guard against the use of 
 drastic purgatives, or even laxatives, for the relief of 
 constipation, which may not exist; as with some animals 
 these medicines, by increasing the muscular action of 
 the bowels, indirectly excite contraction of the womb. If 
 there is constipation, suitable diet is a safer remedy than 
 physics. Powerful narcotic, sedative, and other medic- 
 inal remedies, are to be avoided; even if they do not in- 
 jure the mother, they may imperil the life of the foetus. 
 
 STERILITY— BARRENNESS— INFECUNDITY. 
 
 The loss to farmers, as well as to owners of Stallions 
 and Bulls, on account of barrenness, is sometimes enorm- 
 ous. Barrenness exists in both males and females. If a 
 number of females are bred to a certain male animal and 
 fail to conceive, there is something wrong with the male 
 and he is considered barren or sterile. Again, certain 
 females may be bred to a number of male animals, with- 
 out conceiving, then the fault is with the female, and she 
 is considered barren. Barrenness, temporary or perma- 
 nent, in the female, is a common occurrence, and is some- 
 times serious. It is more frequently met with in the 
 Equine than other species. 
 
 BARRENNESS— STERILITY IN THE MALE. 
 
 CAUSES OF BARRENNESS IN THE MALE.— In 
 the male, barrenness may be due to many causes, as hard- 
 ening of the testicles, the result of inflammation; soften- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 63 
 
 ing of the testicles from being pampered, and liberally 
 fed upon starchy food without sufficient exercise; imper- 
 fect development of the testicles, as in the case of ridg- 
 lings. Change of climate has sometimes a marked influ- 
 ence on the generative organs, at times only for a season, 
 and again it renders the male animals incapable of impreg- 
 nating females. There are also several diseases of the 
 generative organs, which tend to produce barrenness, as 
 inflammation of the membrane covering the penis, ulcer- 
 ations of the penis, warts on the end of the penis, paralysis 
 of the penis, tumors affecting either the testicles or penis, 
 tumors affecting the excretory ducts of the testicles, en- 
 larged prostrate gland, injuries or disease of the back and 
 loins rendering the male animal unable to mount the 
 female; serving too many females within a few days, 
 will sometimes render the male sterile for the balance of 
 the season. Or the fault may be due to the absence of the 
 male generative germs (spermatozoa) in the seminal fluid. 
 TREATMENT OF BARRENNESS IN THE MALE. 
 — All the foregoing causes and conditions should be care- 
 fully considered and given prompt attention, if the owner 
 wishes to use the animal for breeding purposes. If the 
 animal is barren from imperfect development of the tes- 
 ticles, as in ridgling, castrate at once and convert into a 
 good work horse. If the sterile animal is other than a 
 StalHon, fatten for the market, as the animal will never 
 be of any use for breeding purposes. When there is soft- 
 ening of the testicles from being too fat and fed upon 
 starchy food, give plenty of exercise, and avoid feeding 
 corn, wheat or other starchy food, and feed oats, bran 
 mash, cottonseed cake, etc. When there is hardening of 
 the testicles, grease them with the following preparation: 
 
 Iodine one-half ounce 
 
 Alcoholic Extract Belladonna . . one-fourth ounce 
 
 Camphor one-fourth ounce 
 
 Vaseline or lard four ounces 
 
"64: Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 Mix thoroughly and apply gently. Where self-abuse 
 has been continued for a considerable length of time, cas- 
 tration is the most profitable method to pursue. Ulcera- 
 tions of the penis are best combatted by filling the ulcers 
 with calomel, a few times. Warts should be extirpated 
 with the knife and afterwards touched with lunar caustic 
 or acetic acid. Too much stress cannot be placed upon 
 the evil of serving too many females in a short space of 
 time. One service a day, is all that should be allowed 
 during the season. Two services may be permitted in 
 one day, by allowing five or six hours to elapse between 
 €ach service, but this should not be continued daily. The 
 indiscriminate and injudicious methods practiced by some 
 owners of sires by allowing four, five, and sometimes as 
 high as eight services in a single day, is very liable to 
 cause a weakness of the testicles, so that the fluid secret- 
 ed thereafter for a considerable length of time, will be 
 deficient in impregnating properties (spermatozoa), and 
 although the animal may seem vigorous and continue in 
 service, the female will fail to conceive, through no fault 
 of her own. 
 
 BARRENNESS^-STERILITY IN THE FEMALE. 
 
 CAUSES OF BARRENNESS IN THE FEMALE.— 
 ■Sterility in the female, has also a variety of causes. Pro- 
 longed continence and old age are not infrequent causes, 
 as is witnessed in Mares which have worked for many 
 years in towns, and then transferred for breeding pur- 
 poses. Change of climate has in many cases a marked 
 influence on sterility — sometimes rendering the animal 
 sterile for only a longer or shorter period, while at other 
 times barrenness becomes permanent. The generative 
 organs may also be impaired, and fecundity suspended 
 temporarily or permanently, by abuse of the generative 
 functions, bad hygiene, etc. The female may fail to con- 
 cieve from premature or tardy copulation when the gen- 
 
OnSTETRlCS — DuMliSTICATED AnIMALS. 05 
 
 erative organs are not in a physiological condition for 
 conception, or when they are in an irritable, abnormal 
 state; but this cannot be termed sterility. 
 
 Under-fed or over-fed animals generally do not breed 
 so readily as those which are in moderate condition; fat 
 animals are especially unfruitful; as in these pampered, 
 highly- fed, fat animals, there is generally found a fatty 
 condition of the ovaries. Excitable, vicious females are 
 less likely to procreate than those which are of an equable 
 and gentle disposition. An animal with a mild disposi- 
 tion is often impregnated at one attempt; and it has been 
 observed that with Mares accustomed to work, active 
 exertion, even to produce fatigue, before being put to 
 the horse, is favorable to conception. So it is that the 
 Arab submits his Mare to a severe gallop, and brings her 
 almost breathless before the Stallion, when, copulation 
 being accomplished, he leaves her quietly at rest for 
 some hours. 
 
 Barrenness may also be caused by disease or alterations 
 in the ovaries. Fallopian tubes, womb, or vagina; and if 
 any material obstacle to the contact of the spermatic or 
 seminal fluid of the male with the ovum of the female be 
 present in these parts, impregnation cannot take place. 
 Sometimes tumors of various kinds in this region cause 
 sterility. An imperforate, dense, and tough hj^men may 
 be another cause. The male generative germs (sperma- 
 tazoa) may have their vitality destroyed by the acid or 
 other secretions they meet with, when introduced into 
 the female genital canal; or the impregnated ovum of the 
 female may be unable to fix itself on the mucous mem- 
 brane of the womb because of inflammation existing 
 there. Occlusion or closing of the mouth of the 
 womb has been known as a cause of barrenness in the 
 Mare and Cow from the earliest times. This closing of the 
 mouth of the womb may be complete during copulation, 
 which will prove fatal to impregnation ; or it may be due 
 merely to a spasmodic condition of the muscles of the 
 
(iii OliSTliTUKS DoMliSTICATLlU AxiMAI.S. 
 
 neck of the womb. Leucorrhoea or whites is a frequent 
 cause of sterility. 
 
 TREATMENT OF BARRENNESS IN THE FE- 
 MALE. — All the causes should be considered and a care- 
 ful examination made, as removal of the obstacle to gen- 
 eration may, in many instances, be quite within the scope 
 of surgical or medical measures. The oiled hand should 
 be introduced into the vagina, and if the mouth of the 
 womb is found to be closed, smear the neck of the womb 
 with extract of belladonna; within two hours' time make 
 another examination and if the mouth of the womb still 
 remains closed, in many cases this closure can be remedied 
 in the very safe and simple manner following: The animal 
 is secured — if a Mare by the "side-line," if a Cow by fast- 
 ening the two hind legs together, though not too close — 
 and the oiled hand, in the form of a cone, passed up the 
 vagina to the neck of the womb in a half-rotary or screw- 
 ing manner; on reaching the mouth of the womb, the 
 tips of the fingers are to be gently inserted by the same 
 movement into the mouth and pushed on until the cavity 
 of the Avomb is reached; the animal should be put to the 
 male on the same or the following day. This simple opera- 
 tion for the cure of sterility has been very often practiced, 
 and is well known to the Arabs of the Sahara, who treated 
 their barren Mares in this manner, and in the majority 
 of cases with success. A simple sound, the size of an or- 
 dinary catheter, well greased, may be employed with the 
 same object as the fingers, and appears to answer quite 
 as well. Various instruments have been devised to dilate 
 the mouth and neck of the womb, but nothing is equal to 
 the fingers or the sound. 
 
 In the United States, Lyford's method of ensuring 
 impregnation when the mouth and neck of the womb is 
 at fault, has been extensively practised, with excellent 
 results. Use is made of what he terms impregnators and 
 dilators. The impregnator consists of a hollow tube or 
 cone, composed of soft rubber of sufficient thickness and 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticatiid Animals. 67 
 
 firmness to retain its shape and resist the pressure of the 
 neck of the womb. Somewhat constricted at the disc 
 portion, in order that it may be self-retaining (Fig. 12, a), 
 the posterior surface of the disc is somewhat concave, to 
 admit the urethral sinus of the penis; while the canal in 
 the body is sufficiently wide to allow the semen or sem- 
 inal fluid an easy passage through the tube to the end (b), 
 which projects into the womb. These impregnators are 
 in three or four sizes, to fit different sized wombs; and to 
 render less objectionable to both male and female, the 
 disc (Fig. 13, a), as well as the bulb (b), is hollow and 
 very elastic, so that connection between male and female 
 takes place almost as if no foreign body intervened. The 
 advantages claimed for these articles are: Close approx- 
 
 Fig. 12. Fig. 13. 
 
 IMPREGNATING TUBE. SECTION OF IMPREGNATING 
 
 TUBE, 
 a, Disc; b, Bulb. a, Disc: b. Bulb. 
 
 imation to the natural condition of the neck of the womb 
 during copulation, and so rendering the communication 
 between the cavity of the womb complete, thus assuring 
 easy access for the semen; they are easil)^ inserted; are 
 ready for immediate use; and they are cheap and dur- 
 able. The 'dilator (Fig. 14) greatly facilitates the intro- 
 duction of the impregnator, by dilating the mouth of the 
 womb and displacing any obstruction that may exist, thus 
 allowing the neck of the womb to envelop the impregnator 
 easily and closely, as well as saving much time in insert- 
 ing it. This is accomplished by the left hand in the va- 
 gina placing the impregnator — in which is the dilator — 
 
08 Obstetrics — DoMESTiCATiiu Animals. 
 
 at the entrance of the mouth of the womb, while the right 
 hand makes the necessary pressure on the handle of the 
 dilator to push it into the canal of the womb ; the left 
 hand retains it there until the dilator is withdrawn. The 
 Stallion is then allowed access to the Mare and within 
 five minutes after copulation the tube is extracted by 
 means of a tape attached to it, the end of which has a 
 ring, and hangs outside the vulva. 
 
 Moderate rigidity of the neck of the womb, which can- 
 not be overcome by prompt manipulation with the fingers 
 or tubes, may be combatted by means of sponge tents in- 
 troduced into the mouth of the womb. These are made 
 by soaking a sponge to which a long string has been se- 
 curely tied, in a strong solution of gum arabic; it is then 
 closely wound round with a thread, so as to form an elong- 
 ated, pointed mass four or five inches long. When dry, the 
 thread is removed, and the sponge, being slightly smeared 
 with grease or glycerine, is passed into the mouth of the 
 womb, where it is left to soften and expand, in doing 
 which it widens the canal. The operation of inserting the 
 tent must be performed quickly, either with the fingers 
 or forceps, before it absorbs mucus which will cause it to 
 lose its rigidity and make it difficult, if not impossible, 
 to apply. In some instance it may be necessary to make 
 a few incisions in the neck of the womb before an opening 
 can be forced; this can be accomplished with a thorough- 
 ly cleansed, small-bladed penknife; then force an open- 
 ing cither with the fingers or the sound. But this cutting 
 operation should never be resorted to until the simpler 
 and safer ones have failed. 
 
 When the womb is excitable and irritative, causing 
 straining and ejection of the seminal fluids or semen, it is 
 b^st to give the female a good run or a hard day's work — 
 Bomething to compel the animal to become fatigued, then 
 breed immediately and she will likely conceive. If bar- 
 renness is due to a fatty condition of the ovaries, where 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 69 
 
 the animal is very fat and pampered up, place it to work 
 and work hard for a month or six weeks, feeding on a 
 limited quantity of oats and hay; but if from too low a 
 condition, and overwork, reverse the conditions. If from 
 luecorrhoea or whites, treat for this ailment. If from dis- 
 eased ovaries, the animal should be spayed. If only one 
 ovary becomes affected, that ovary should be taken away, 
 when the animal will possibly breed all right. When 
 Mares become greatly advanced in years, say seventeen 
 to twenty, without ever producing a colt, they should 
 not be bred, as the pelvic bones become solidified and dif- 
 ficult delivery is the result, probably ending in the loss 
 of both Foal and Mare. 
 
 PATHOLOGY OF PREGNANCY. 
 
 In the PATHOLOGY of pregnancy will be included 
 influence of pregnancy on ordinary diseases, and the 
 diseases and accidents incidental to pregnancy. 
 
 PATHOLOGICAL DISTURBANCES INCIDENTAL 
 TO PREGNANCY. 
 Pregnancy in animals brings about certain modifica- 
 tions in the organism which may sometimes call for seri- 
 ous notice, either when it leads to a morbid predisposi- 
 tion, or in its influence on the progress of certain diseases 
 already existing at the time of conception, or which have 
 developed during pregnancy. There are also maladies 
 which are peculiar to pregnancy, some of them of much 
 importance. 
 
 INFLUENCE OF PREGNANCY ON ORDINARY 
 DISEASES. 
 The influence of pregnancy has often been productive 
 of marked effects on the course of ordinary diseases. And 
 these influences may have been due, directly or indirectly, 
 in some cases at least, to the condition of the blood in the 
 female,' the red globules of the blood, also the albumin is 
 
70 ObSTF.TRICS — DOMHSTICATEI) AxiMALS. 
 
 greatly decreased, while the serum of the blood is much 
 above the normal standard. Owing to this decrease in 
 the solid portion of the blood, the blood of the pregnant 
 female contains more white, than red globules; therefore 
 depletive measures should be carefully resorted to, or, 
 better still, abstained from. The mechanical effects of 
 the foetus, and the immense volume of the womb, must 
 also produce disturbance of most essential functions, 
 and more especially those of the abdominal and thoracic 
 organs. Therefore it is, that during pregnancy such af- 
 fections as indigestion, colic, tympanites, or pneumonia, 
 are so frequently followed by abortion and slow conva- 
 lescence, or death of the animal. 
 
 Chronic diseases have in general but little influence on 
 pregnancy. It has been thought by some that "broken 
 wind" in the Mare is much relieved during pregnancy; 
 but some observations would go to prove that it is rather 
 aggravated — though the troublesome cough does not 
 appear to prevent the foetus from reaching its full period. 
 
 Acute diseases are more serious, and especially those 
 of an epizootic kind, which often cause abortion or induce 
 premature labor. Influenza very often leads to abortion in 
 Mares, and the contagious pleuro-pneumonia of cattle has 
 frequently the same result, death being more frequent as 
 pregnancy is well advanced. Sheep-pox is also more se- 
 rious and more often fatal in pregnant sheep, and most 
 frequently followed by abortion. Abortion has been a 
 notorious sequel of "foot-and-mouth disease," in which 
 the losses from this cause have sometimes amounted to 
 fifty, and even more, per cent. Painful and nervous dis- 
 eases are more serious during pregnancy than at other 
 times. 
 
 DISEASES INCIDENTAL TO PREGNANCY. 
 
 The chief maladies or morbid conditions which have 
 been noted in animals are Pica, rickets, constipation, 
 colic, dropsical swellings, partial paralysis, cramps, con- 
 
OnsTETRics — Domesticated Animals. U 
 
 gestion of brain, cough, inflammation of the udder, 
 bloody serum or milk. 
 
 PICA, OR LOSS OF APPETITE. 
 
 The appetite of pregnant animals is sometimes de- 
 praved, and they will ingest foreign matters — such as 
 plaster licked from the walls, wood gnawn from their 
 stable fittings, earth, etc. This depraved appetite may 
 be corrected by careful attention to the quantity and 
 quality of food, to which should be added powdered ex- 
 tract of gentian. 
 
 DOSE. — Mare, one drachm; Cow. two drachms; 
 Sheep and Pig, twenty grains; Bitch, five grains. Give 
 three times a day, mixed in the food. 
 
 The Herbivora should be allowed common salt in 
 their food, or to lick. 
 
 RICKETS AND SOFTENING OF THE BONES. 
 
 Softening or fragility of the bones, has been frequently 
 observed in pregnant animals, and especially those which 
 are young. There is considerable increase in the organic 
 matter of the bones, and a corresponding decrease in the 
 orniganic matter, especially of calcium phosphate; the 
 long bones arc more particularly affected, though the 
 whole skeleton may be involved. The bones become soft- 
 ened, are often enlarged, and are friable and brittle; so 
 that in advanced cases fractures occur readily, while de- 
 formity is not at all rare. 
 
 CAUSES. — It is generally due to the animal receiving 
 insufficient food, or eating that which is deficient in min- 
 eral matters — such as lime and phosphorus — as well as 
 nitrogenous constituents. When pregnant animals are 
 not well fed, the foetus makes such demands upon the 
 mother for growth materials that she must suffer, and 
 that speedily, in the bone strvictures. 
 
i2 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 SYMPTOMS.— Usually the first symptom is loss of 
 appetite, the animal instinctively seeking for lime salts. 
 But frequently the first indication of this condition is 
 the occurrence of fracture of one of the limb or pelvic 
 bones from some slight cause — as getting up from the 
 recumbent position, slipping, or a blow. Sometimes be- 
 fore these fractures occur, the animal appears to be stiiT, 
 and walk as if suflering from debility, and the joints be- 
 gin to swell; then the animal lies down and remains in 
 this position, unless strong persuasion is applied. 
 
 TREATMENT. — This condition is always more or 
 less serious. Prevention lies in giving pregnant animals 
 good food, keeping them in a healthy state, and not 
 breeding from them when too young. 
 
 The curative treatment is simple, and is mainly cen- 
 tered in offering nutritious food rich in lime salts — as 
 crushed oats and beans for Mares, and oats and beans 
 which have been scalded or boiled, with green forage or 
 good hay for Cows. Precipitated Calcium Phosphate, 
 may also be administered in serious cases. 
 
 DOSE. — Mare, two drachms; Cow, one-half ounce; 
 Sheep and Pig, one drachm; Bitch, ten grains. Give 
 three times a day. 
 
 CONSTIPATION. 
 
 Constipation during pregnancy is more frequently 
 met with in those animals which live on flesh — as the 
 Bitch and Cat — than those feeding on herbage. 
 
 TREATMENT.— In all animals it may be largely 
 remedied, or altogether removed, by suitable diet and 
 exercise. Purgatives should be avoided, if possible, and 
 only mild laxatives resorted to if necessary. For the 
 Bitch and Cat castor-oil is preferable to other laxatives 
 and raw linseed oil for the larger animals. 
 
 DOSE of castor-oil for Bitch and Cat. one ounce. If 
 the constipation is very obstinate and will not yield to 
 the oil, give an injection of warm (not hot) soap suds. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 73 
 
 DOSE of raw linseed oil. — Mare, one-half pint; Cow, 
 one pint; Sheep and Pig, four ounces. The injection as 
 directed for the Bitch and Cat should not be resorted to 
 with the larger pregnant animals unless absolutely ne- 
 cessary, as it might induce abortion. 
 
 COLIC. 
 
 Colic may appear in some instances during the early 
 months of pregnancy in the Mare, the attacks being gen- 
 erally slight, and occurring at intervals. 
 
 TREATMENT.— It is usually the result of indiges- 
 tion, and only requires simple treatment — as warm gruel, 
 friction to the abdomen, injections of warm water, and 
 laxative food, such as linseed mashes. 
 
 DROPSICAL SWELLINGS OF THE LEGS DURING 
 PREGNANCY (OEDEMA.) 
 
 In some of the coarser breeds of animals and, occa- 
 sionally in some of the finer, during pregnancy swellings 
 appear around the udder, extending forward as far as 
 the breast and backward and upwards as high as the 
 vulva. The hind legs will begin swelling just above the 
 hoof, and the swelling will extend upward to the hocks 
 or even to the groin. These swellings are serous or watery 
 in character, diminish rapidly during exercise and in- 
 crease upon rest. The disease is not of much consequence, 
 being caused by deficient circulation occasioned by the 
 pressure of the foetus upon certain blood vessels, for 
 explanation of (see alterations in the womb under preg- 
 nancy). It is rarely seen in the Cow, as the circulation 
 of the glands of the udder is more complete that it is in 
 the Mare. In Mares it sometimes appears three or four 
 months previous to the foaling; but when at pasture 
 where they can get regular exercise, it rarely occurs. 
 ^ TREATMENT. — As it depends very much upon the 
 conformation and temperament of the individual animal. 
 
"] i Ol'.STKTRirS Do.M i:STl CATKl) .\ X I M ALS. 
 
 as well as on season and hygienic management, no fear 
 need be entertained, as it disappears in a few days after 
 foaling. Should it occasion any inconvenience, give ex- 
 ercise, and hand-rubbing with the following liniment: 
 
 Soft Soap one and one-half ounces. 
 
 Rain Water (boiled) five ounces. 
 
 Gum Camphor one ounce. 
 
 Oil of Turpentine thirteen ounces. 
 
 Mix the Soft Soap with two ounces of the Water; dis- 
 solve the Camphor in the Oil of Turpentine; gradually 
 add the Turpentine solution to the Soap solution, stirring 
 constantly until all has been added; then beat with an 
 egg beater until the mixture becomes a thick creamy 
 emulsion; lastly mix with sufficient boiled Rain Water 
 to produce one pint. 
 
 EXCESSIVE WATERS (HYDROPS AMNII.) 
 
 When there is an unusual secretion of the waters of 
 the womb (fluid amnii), it constitutes what has been 
 termed "dropsy of the amnion." 
 
 CAUSES. — It is most frequently met with in poor, 
 badly-fed animals— and particularly in Cows, in which 
 improper hygiene has produced a morbid excitement of 
 the generative organs. Animals which bring forth more 
 than one foetus are much more frequently affected than 
 where only one foetus is present, and it nearly always 
 occurs during the early months of pregnancy; the foetus 
 is generally little developed, and in the majority of in- 
 stances is dead before it is expelled. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. — It is not until the fifth or sixth month 
 of pregnancy, or even later, that indications of this con- 
 dition are evident. Then the abdomen rapidly enlarges, 
 especially to one side — generally the right ; and in a short 
 time it has acquired a greater volume than it has towards 
 the end of gestation. At this period the health becomes 
 
Or.STETRics — Domesticated Animals. To 
 
 deranged, and colic, with or •without wind dropsy (tym- 
 panites), is not infrequent. General debility is so marked 
 that the animal can scarcel5^ if at all, stand; the appetite 
 is lost, rumination is suspended, passing of the urine ir- 
 regular, dropsical swellings of the limbs and abdomen 
 ensue, with difficult breathing, which increases so quickly 
 in intensity that suffocation is often imminent. The mus- 
 cular walls of the abdomen in some cases have been rup- 
 tured, and the entire mass of the womb, with its contents, 
 has formed a hernia, or rupture. The ordinary period of 
 pregnancy may be completed; or abortion may occur at 
 the seventh or eighth month, when all the indications of 
 such an occurrence are present. The act of parturition 
 will be tedious and slow. 
 
 DIAGNOSIS. — The state of the abdomen might lead 
 to the supposition that the case was one of wind dropsy 
 (tympanites), or twin pregnancy. But rectal examina- 
 tion will reveal the immense size of the womb, which 
 forms a great globular mass in the abdominal cavity, and 
 almost completely fills the pelvis, though nothing of a 
 foetus can be detected; while vaginal exploration dis- 
 covers the neck of the womb cannot be distinguished, 
 the mouth is closed, and the back part of the womb pro- 
 jects more or less into the vagina; pressure on this part of 
 the womb proves that it contains fluid, though usually 
 no foetus can be felt, as it is beyond the touch, and almost 
 lost in the small ocean of fluid surrounding it. It is in 
 rare cases that the mouth of the womb is dilated. 
 
 RESULTS. — The occurrence of excessive waters in 
 the womb is nearly always fatal to the foetus. About 
 fifty per cent, of the mothers survive; although, as a rule, 
 the result has been more favorable where assistance was 
 prompt and early. 
 
 TREATMENT. — The chief indication is to remove at 
 least a portion of the fluid, by rupturing the membranes 
 surrounding the foetus; this can be easily accomplished 
 with the fingers if any of the membrane is protruding 
 
76 Obstktrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 from the mouth of the womb into the vagina; if the mem- 
 branes are not in the vagina, and the mouth of the womb 
 is sufficiently dilated for the admission of the hand, they 
 may be ruptured in the womb; if the mouth of the womb 
 is closed it should be gently dilated, and the membrane 
 punctured, if necessary, by means of a trocar and cannula. 
 As soon as the membranes surrounding the foetus are 
 pierced, a gush of fluid takes place, the abdomen dimin- 
 ishes in volume, the womb becomes retracted, and in 
 this retraction the foetus and membranes are sometimes 
 expelled. Should this expulsion not take place soon, 
 they must be removed in the ordinary way. After this, 
 the animal must have good care and a generous amount 
 of food. It must be remembered that the foetus is al- 
 ways dead; and even if it were alive it should be sacri- 
 ficed, with the view of saving the life of the mother. The 
 chances of success are greater when intervention takes 
 place during the early stage of pregnancy, and before the 
 abdomen is excessively distended, therefore the respira- 
 tion is not seriously affected, and debility not great. 
 
 The excessive waters of the womb have been removed 
 through a puncture in the flank; but this method is not 
 advisable. 
 
 PARALYSIS OF THE HIND QUARTERS. 
 
 (PARAPLEGIA.) 
 
 During pregnancy the Cow is more frequently at- 
 tacked with paralysis of the hind quarters, than are the 
 other domesticated animals; this usually occurs when 
 near parturition, and often even when that act has com- 
 menced; generally, however, it appears six, eight, ten, or 
 twenty days, rarely a month or two, previous to partur- 
 ition. 
 
 CAUSES. — The cause has been said to be the result of 
 the increased weight the creature is called upon to sup- 
 port. It attacks animals which are well fed and tended, 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 77 
 
 as well as those which receive the opposite treatment. 
 In a locality we may, in certain years, meet with a num- 
 ber of cases; then several consecutive years may elapse 
 without any being noted. 
 
 SYMPTOMS.— The paralysis of pregnancy generally 
 appears suddenly and without any premonitory symp- 
 toms, manifesting itself with the same intensity at the 
 outset as at a later period; though in rare cases the animal 
 shows a weakness and unsteadiness of the back part of 
 the body and hind Hmbs for a short time before it drops, 
 and the end of the tail is remarkably flaccid. When par- 
 alysis has really set in, the animal is forced to lie, but it 
 does not appear to suffer; the position is natural, the head 
 carried as usual, the eye bright and clear, the muffle damp 
 and cool, and rumination in the majority of instances is 
 not suspended; the pulse, respiration, and appetite are 
 unaltered, and sensation does not seem to be impaired, 
 even in the hind limbs. Constipation is frequently pres- 
 ent. It is only when the animal attempts to rise that its 
 condition is evident ; the fore limbs and neck can be moved 
 to accomplish this, but the hinder extremities are power- 
 less, or can only be raised to a slight extent; though with 
 help it may be lifted up and can then stand, but unsteady. 
 
 RESULT. — Ordinarily, the paralysis persists until par- 
 turition, when it disappears. Sometimes it continues un- 
 til the third day after parturition; and occasionally the 
 paralysis persists for a longer time, and either causes the 
 death or necessitates slaughter of the animal. When 
 paralysis manifests itself only a few days before parturi- 
 tion, the result is usually favorable; but when it makes its 
 appearance toward the seventh or eighth month of preg- 
 nancy, the prospect of recovery is not so favorable. If 
 the animal is old or debiHtated there is less hope for re- 
 covery. A day or two after parturition, if the animal can 
 move the hind limbs and change its position from one side 
 to another, a' favorable issue may be predicted. 
 
"58 OnsTETKics — Domesticate]) Animals. 
 
 This malady must not be confounded with "parturient 
 fever," "milk fever," or "parturient apoplexy," in which 
 we have paralysis, but from which it differs greatly, as 
 the symptoms and results show. 
 
 TREATMENT. — It is advisable in most cases to get 
 the animal up, either with or without help; but if it can- 
 not stand, and slinging is not advisable, then it must be 
 made comfortable in the recumbent position, and turned 
 over frequently; peat-moss makes the best bedding. In 
 the majority of cases and especially before parturition, 
 little treatment is necessary. The principal indication is 
 to avert or get rid of constipation by administering raw 
 linseed oil internally, and giving soap suds injections when 
 necessary, and to feed hot mashes and easily digested 
 nourishing food, and keep the animal clean, and quiet. If 
 the paralysis is due to debility, then highly nutritious food 
 with powdered extract of gentian should be given. If the 
 animal evinces tenderness on pressure along the spinal 
 cord, heat should be applied to that region. Should the 
 paralysis persist and the time for parturition be some 
 months distant, it may be necessary to induce abortion, 
 as the protracted recumbent position generally produces 
 external sores of large extent. Should the paralysis con- 
 tinue for any length of time after parturition, more ener- 
 getic treatment will be necessary. In these cases, the 
 hypodermic injection of strychnine beneath the skin is 
 nearly always attended with success. 
 
 DOSE of strychnine for hypodermic use. — Mare, three- 
 fourths of a grain; Cow, three-fourths of a grain; Sheep, 
 one-sixth grain; Hog, one-twelfth grain; Dog, one one- 
 hundred and thirty-third of a grain. Repeat the injec- 
 tion every four or five hours until relieved. 
 
 DOSE of Powdered Extract Gentian. — Mare, one 
 drachm; Cow, two drachms; Sheep and Pig, twenty 
 grains; Bitch and Cat, five grains. Give with the food 
 three times a day. 
 
 DOSE of Raw Linseed Oil. — Mare, three-fourths pint; 
 
OusTETRics — Domesticated Animals. 79 
 
 Cow, one and one-half pint; Sheep and Pig, six ounces; 
 Bitch and Cat, one ounce. Repeat the dose every six 
 hours until the bowels move. 
 
 CRAMP. 
 
 By Cramp is meant an involuntary, and extremely 
 painful contraction of one or more of the muscles. It is 
 sometimes observed during the second half of gestation, 
 especially in the Mare and Cow; it chiefly involves the 
 muscles of the thigh, and the principle extensor muscle. 
 
 SYMPTOMS.— The animal either suddenly and rapid- 
 ly draws up and extends the limb— striking the ground 
 hurriedly and energetically with the foot, as if a fly had 
 settled on the leg, or the whole limb is gradually and rig- 
 idly elevated without flexure of the joints, except those 
 of the phalanges, which are half flexed, the front of the 
 hoof being directed towards the ground; at the same time 
 the muscles of the leg are hard, tense, and painful to man- 
 ipulate, and the animal betrays the torture it experiences 
 by its expression and attitudes. This manifestation is in- 
 creased if the animal is compelled to walk, its first steps 
 being extremely difficult; while the limb is maintained in 
 a perfectly rigid condition. In a short time these symp- 
 toms disappear, and movement is restored. The cramp 
 may pass from one limb to another alternately; it ap- 
 pears to be due to pressure on the sciatic nerve. 
 
 TREATMENT. — Cramp is of no moment, and can be 
 relieved by walking the animal for a few paces, or by 
 smart friction. It disappears altogether after parturition. 
 
 COUGH. 
 
 Cough is a marked symptom of "excessive waters of 
 the womb" (which see). But even when this kind of 
 dropsy is not present, breathing is frequently difficult 
 during pregnancy. This difficult breathing is sometimes 
 accompanied by a very harrassing cough, which, in the 
 
80 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 larger animals, and particularly the Mare, may lead to 
 injury. 
 
 TREATMENT.— Cyanide of Potassium is recom- 
 mended for the relief of this cough. 
 
 DOSE of Cyanide of Potassium. — Mare and Cow, one 
 grain; Sheep and Pig, one-fifth grain; Bitch and Cat, one- 
 tenth grain. Give three times a day until the cough is 
 relieved. 
 
 EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF MILK BEFORE 
 PARTURITION. 
 
 This does not demand any attention, unless the udder 
 is large and hard, when it would be beneficial to draw 
 the milk frequently. 
 
 ACCIDENTS OF PREGNANCY. 
 
 Under this class will be found the following diseases 
 which occur before parturition, and are due to accidental 
 causes — Protrusion (Prolapsus) of the Vagina, Rupture 
 of the Womb, Hemorrhage of the Womb, Abnormal Re- 
 tention of the Foetus, and Abortion. 
 
 PROTRUSION (PROLAPSUS) OF THE VAGINA 
 BEFORE PARTURITION. 
 
 Protrusion of the vagina has been most frequently 
 observed in the Cow and Sheep; rarely in the Mare and 
 Bitch. It consists in the protrusion, or pushing back- 
 wards, of the vagina by the womb and its contents during 
 pregnancy, the tumor it forms appearing between, or 
 external to the lips of the vulva. When the tumor is be- 
 tween the lips it is called "incomplete protrusion"; but 
 when it extends out beyond the lips of the vulva, it is 
 termed "complete protrusion." This must not be con- 
 founded with "prolapsus of the vagina after parturition." 
 
 CAUSES. — Protrusion of the vagina may occur in 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Aximals. 81 
 
 well shaped animals, whose tissues, especially those of the 
 genital organs, are soft and relaxed, with a wide pelvis, 
 good milkers, and which are fed on an abundance of bulky, 
 but innutritious food. Keeping such animals on a floor 
 sloping too much to the rear, as well as falls, injuries of 
 different kinds, distention of the paunch, fatigue, etc., 
 are all likely to lead to this accident in animals during 
 pregnancy. It occurs most frequently after the third or 
 fourth gestation, although it has been present during the 
 first gestation. The period and duration of its appearance 
 varies. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. — The occurrence of protrusion of the 
 vagina is made known by the appearance, at the vulva, 
 of a circular, bright red tumor, depressed in the center, 
 and of a variable, but increasing size as gestation advances 
 — from the volume of a fist to that of the head of a child, 
 or even larger. At first it is only visible when the animal 
 is lying, and disappears when it gets up; but when of con- 
 siderable volume it never entirely vanishes. If existing 
 for some time, inflammation may be the result, when a 
 large and somewhat dense tumor projects permanently 
 outside the vulva. The color now becomes a darker red, 
 and even dark brown; the tumor may be irritated on the 
 surface from the rubbing of the tail and contact with the 
 dung and urine, while at its upper part can be seen the neck 
 of the womb. This does not seem to incommode the ani- 
 mal, unless it be of an irritable disposition, when straining 
 may take place, and this increasing in intensity, the neck, 
 and even a portion of the body of the womb, will follow 
 the protruded vagina, and a spontaneous reduction can 
 no longer take place, while manipulation increases the 
 straining. This is in reality now a case of "Prolapsus of 
 the Womb," and an examination of the voluminous mass 
 may lead to the detection of some portion of the foetus 
 in its midst. Frequently the bladder become displaced, 
 and when this is distended with urine it will gravely com- 
 plicate the case and render reduction more difficult. 
 
ii>'i OiisTETKics — D()Mi;sTi(Aii:i) Animals. 
 
 TREATMENT. — After calving, the vaginal tumor dis- 
 appears without an 5^ treatment being required. But if 
 treatment is necessary, and should the floor of the stall 
 be lower behind than in front, to level it is the first to be 
 done; this may readily be accomplished by means of the 
 bedding. The diet may also require attention, giving that 
 which contains sufficient nutriment in small bulk; con- 
 stipation should be guarded against, or, if present, rem- 
 edied by the administration of raw linseed oil. This treat- 
 ment will be sufficient in the majority of cases. 
 
 In serious cases, when the tumor is large and the ani- 
 mal strains, and spontaneous restoration or replacement 
 does not occur when the animal is in a standing position, 
 the mass must be returned. This is readily enough accom- 
 plished; but it sometimes happens that restoration docs 
 not prevent a continuation of the straining, which will 
 result again in the protrusion of the vagina. This is due 
 to the membrane, which, not having been properly 
 smoothed down when replaced into the cavity, remains in 
 rigid folds which give rise to an uncomfortable sensation, 
 and induce expulsive efforts or straining. In replacing the 
 tumor, it is necessary to cleanse it well with tepid water, 
 and to smooth out the folds of the membrane lining the 
 vagina by gentle pressure forward as far as the neck of 
 the womb, in order to efface these folds, which arc a great 
 source of annoyance. After this a bandage may be ap- 
 plied with a view to keeping the vulva closed, until its 
 lips have retracted somewhat. For illustration and de- 
 scription of the bandage (see Protrusion or Inversion of 
 the Womb, Figs. 67, 68). 
 
 In desperate cases, where there is complete protrusion 
 of the vagina, with partial protrusion of the womb, the 
 animal can only be saved by patience and tact of the oper- 
 ator. The animal must be made to stand, with the hind 
 quarters as high as possible (which may be arranged with 
 boards or litter), and to prevent straining the loins should 
 be pressed upon in a forcible manner, by means of a stick 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 83 
 
 placed transversely across the loins, with a man at each 
 end, another holding the tongue and pinching the nose. 
 The protrusion having been cleansed with tepid water, the 
 operator replaces it during the intervals of straining. 
 Having returned the displaced organs into the pelvic cav- 
 ity, the arm and fist of the operator must follow them, 
 and by pressing on the neck of the womb, so act on the 
 lining membrane of the vagina as to leave no folds or 
 ridges in it; when the straining has ceased, which usually 
 occurs very soon, the arm may be withdrawn. The 
 recurrence of the protrusion must be avoided by the im- 
 mediate introduction of a ball pessary, for illustration 
 and description of see (ball pessary. Fig. 65). So long 
 as the pessary is worn — and it may be allowed to remain 
 in the vagina for a considerable period — the vagina should 
 be syringed daily with warm water, to which has been 
 added a very little alum. Death is often the result in 
 those cases in which the anim.al continues to strain and 
 evert the vagina, notwithstanding bandages, pessaries, 
 and other means, and when grave consequences are likely 
 to follow; artificial delivery should be affected without 
 delay; this can readily be accomplished by carefully and 
 gently inserting the fingers into the mouth of the womb, 
 and with the fingers rupture the foetal membranes. There 
 is no difficulty during parturition as a rule; but care is 
 necessary for some days after to prevent protrusion. 
 
 DOSE of Raw Linseed Oil. — Mare, one-half pint; Cow, 
 one pint; Sheep and Pig, four ounces; Bitch and Cat, 
 six drachms. Repeat the dose every six hours until the 
 bowels move. 
 
 RUPTURE OF THE WOMB BEFORE 
 PARTURITION. 
 
 Rupture of the womb may happen before and during 
 parturition, or in attempts to replace the womb when pro- 
 trusion has occurred. It has been observed in the Cow, 
 
84 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 Sheep, Goat, and Bitch; it is not very common before 
 gestation has terminated. 
 
 CAUSES. — Thinning of the walls of the womb, dropsy 
 of the womb, and distention by the gas evolved from a 
 putrefying foetus. 
 
 SYMPTOMS.— The symptoms of the rupture of the 
 womb are not well defined. If the accident is due to ex- 
 ternal violence, the signs will be in accordance with its 
 severity, and the more serious indications may appear 
 very soon after the rupture, or not for a considerable time. 
 After showing symptoms of colic for a short time, the ani- 
 mal appears to be quite well until parturition is due, when 
 after manifesting signs of parturition, the straining ceases, 
 and the symptoms change to those of inflammation of 
 the bowels — hurried, short and plaintive breathing, quick- 
 ened pulse, loss of appetite and suspension of rumination, 
 insensibility of surroundings, coldness of body, looking 
 around to sides, etc. Exploration of the vagina may re- 
 veal an empty womb, or only a portion of the foetus in it, 
 and the rupture itself may be discovered. Or if the rup- 
 ture has only ensued when parturition is advanced, the 
 foetus may be expelled in the usual way, and the symp- 
 toms of the rupture only recognized when the birth has 
 been accomplished. The foregoing symptoms refer to 
 longitudinal rupture. Similar symptoms are observed 
 when transverse rupture of the womb has take place, ex- 
 cept that, owing to the twisting of the womb, the hand 
 cannot explore the cavity; the walls of the vagina, how- 
 ever, are found very much relaxed, and the neck of the 
 womb extremely movable in every direction. If the ani- 
 mal survives, the straining soon passes off, the external 
 genitals resume their ordinary appearance, and every in- 
 dication of pregnancy disappears except the enlarged 
 abdomen, on the floor of which the foetus lies, and there 
 it may become compressed, or in the course of time elim- 
 inated by an ulcerative process set up in the abdominal 
 walls. The mother may thrive, especially if the foetus 
 
OiJSTiiTKics — Domesticated Animals. So 
 
 does not cause any inconvenience or is expelled in some 
 way; and if only one horn of the womb was involved in 
 the rupture, she may again become pregnant. 
 
 TREATMEXT.—But little can be said as to this. 
 Looking at the serious nature of the accident, it must be 
 a question whether, if pregnancy is about complete and 
 the foetus is alive. To distinguish if there is life, refer to 
 and read (Sensible Signs of Pregnancy). If there is no 
 chance of saving the life of the mother, and the time for 
 parturition is at hand, or nearly so, and the foetus is 
 found to be alive, it is advisable to kill the mother and 
 preserve the young one. If there are any outward signs 
 of abdominal abscess, an incision should be made over 
 the abscess for the elimination of the dead foetus. This 
 surgical interference should be attempted on the chance 
 of the mother surviving. 
 
 Though the accident is generally of a most serious 
 character, yet, remembering that the recovery does some- 
 times take place, there need not be undue haste in de- 
 stroying the animal. 
 
 BLEEDING (HAEMORRHAGE) FROM THE WOMB 
 BEFORE PARTURITION. 
 
 Bleeding from the womb during pregnancy, appears to 
 be somewhat rare in animals. It usually manifests itself 
 by a small discharge of blood from the vagina, particularly 
 during urination; this usually results in the death of the 
 foetus. The blood sometimes remains in the womb, as a 
 clotted mass, to the amount of over four gallons. Bleed- 
 ing from the womb in the majority of cases would seem 
 to be occasioned by a sudden separation of the minute 
 blood vessels of the after-birth from the surface of the 
 womb. This bleeding has been observed in animals 
 which showed signs of "heat" during pregnancy. 
 
 TREATMENT. — Apply cold water compresses over 
 the loins and allow to remain for two hours, and plug or 
 
86 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 pack the vagina with septic cotton; if this is not conven- 
 ient, clean old linen will answer. If these applications are 
 of no avail, then artificial delivery should be attempted 
 by inserting the fingers into the mouth of the womb, and 
 with the fingers rupture the membrane; the same treat- 
 ment should be adopted as for bleeding (hemorrhage) 
 after parturition (which see). 
 
 ABNORMAL RETENTION OF THE FOETUS. 
 
 When speaking of the normal period of gestation, it 
 was remarked that this varied within considerable limits, 
 and that the foetus might remain in the womb for a com- 
 paratively long period beyond the ordinary time, without 
 any serious inconvenience to itself or its bearer. But 
 when, from any special cause, delivery cannot take place, 
 then very grave results may, and, indeed, nearly always, 
 follow. All the domesticated animals may suffer from re- 
 tention of the foetus, but the Cow appears to be far more 
 exposed to it than any other. 
 
 CAUSES. — A diminution or loss of the contractile 
 power of the womb, making it incapable of expelling its 
 contents; adhesions of an unusual character between the 
 womb and after-birth; malpositions of the foetus; dis-; 
 placement of the womb; deformed pelvis; spasmodic con- 
 tractions of the neck of the womb; twisting of the womb, 
 or adhesions of its ligaments. 
 
 SYMPTOMS AND RESULTS.— Until the period of 
 normal parturition, or even during pregnancy, when abor- 
 tion is about to take place, there are nearly all the signs 
 of parturition; enlarged uddor, swollen vulva, pendulous 
 abdomen, restlessness, and anxiety. Then the straining 
 begins, but the mouth of the womb remains closed and 
 no foetus appears. This condition may persist for only a 
 brief period, and be so little marked as to pass unobserved 
 in some cases; in others it may continue for two, three. 
 
Obstetrics — Do^iIEsticated Animals. 87 
 
 or four days, the straining or expulsive efforts diminish- 
 ing in force and frequency until they altogether disap- 
 pear. The animal then regains its ordinary state, and, if 
 a Cow, the secretion of milk goes on as if there were noth- 
 ing the matter. Health may never be impaired from this 
 cause, and the condition of the animal may not be sus- 
 pected until, if a Cow or a Sheep, it has been fattened and 
 slaughtered by the butcher for food, when the foetus is 
 discovered. After the permanent retention of a foetus, 
 it has been observed that "heat" does not appear again 
 in this animal, as a rule. 
 
 Sometimes, several months after the period of gesta- 
 tion has been exceeded, signs of parturition are again 
 manifested, and delivery may then be safely accomplished, 
 either without aid, which is rare, or by careful manipula- 
 tion ; the young animal may even be born alive if too long 
 a period has not intervened since the normal time of de- 
 livery. Parturition in these cases is generally difficult ; 
 and a favorable termination of such a condition is due to 
 the foetal membranes not being ruptured, and the mouth 
 of the womb sufficiently contracted to exclude the atmo- 
 sphere. Even under these circumstances, very often, 
 after fruitless straining, the animal continues unwell; it 
 has little or no appetite, languishes, becomes feeble; hec- 
 tic fever appears; the animal fails in flesh and strength, 
 and dies after a more or less prolonged period of misery. 
 
 When at the usual time of parturition, the straining 
 of the animal has ruptured the foetal membranes and the 
 waters escape, air at the same time obtaining access to 
 the cavity of the womb, the case is in nearly every instance 
 very serious. The foetus soon perishes and begins to pu- 
 trefy, and in a short time the decomposing mass causes in- 
 flammation of the womb (metritis i, accompanied by fre- 
 quent and exceedingly severe straining; low fever takes 
 place; a foul-smelling putrid fluid escapes from the va- 
 gina, and the creature finally succumbs to inflammation 
 of the womb and putrid infection. In other instances the 
 
88 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 termination is not so rapid. The animal remains un- 
 healthy; the secretion of milk is suspended; horribly bad- 
 swelling discharges are passed from the vagina, containing 
 pus, broken-up decomposed tissue, and even bones of 
 the foetus. These discharges are increased by the strain- 
 ing which sometimes takes place at intervals. In the 
 meantime, the creature loses condition, and death ensues 
 from debility and loss of strength. With the Cow there 
 may be a vaginal discharge, due to the presence of a pu- 
 trefying foetus, and for a long time, without any serious 
 results. It is not the same with the Mare, as death has 
 been the usual termination; but the retention of the foe- 
 tus is very unusual in this animal. The period during 
 which a foetus may be retained in the womb varies from 
 a few months to five years. 
 
 In the case of twins, it sometimes happens that one of 
 them dies, and this occasions symptoms of abortion; but 
 delivery of the dead foetus cannot be efifected, owing to 
 the obstruction offered by the living one, which is born 
 at the usual time, the parent being in good health. But 
 days, weeks, or even months after, the remains of the 
 dead foetus may be passed, or have to be extracted from 
 the womb. 
 
 TREATMENT.— The treatment for foetal retention 
 must greatly depend upon circumstances. When the 
 owner discovers an animal that has reached the termina- 
 tion of pregnancy and begins to be in labor, perceives that 
 the straining is weak and irregular, and not sustained, 
 so that birth does not take place after twenty-four, 
 thirty-six, or forty-eight hours, and even when the symp- 
 toms of colic are slight, the attendance of an experienced 
 operator should not be delayed. 
 
 When some time— days for instance — has elapsed 
 since this stage of parturition was reached, and labor has 
 completely subsided, the case is difficult. A rectal and 
 vaginal exploration should be made, and if it can be as- 
 certained that the foetal membranes are not ruptured, 
 
Obstetrics— ^Do^rESTICATEl> Animals. 89 
 
 while there is no straining and the condition of the ani- 
 mal is satisfactory, then it will be advisable to wait until 
 indications of labor are once more manifested. If the 
 state of the animal is not so satisfactory and delivery is 
 decided upon, and should the mouth of the womb be im- 
 penatrable, or not sufficiently dilated to allow the passage 
 of the foetus, then it must be opened either by a careful 
 manipulation of the hand, sponge tents, womb douches, 
 or the womb dilating bag, which will be alluded to and 
 illustrated under Mechanical Dilatation of the Mouth of 
 the Womb (which see). 
 
 When a long period has intervened after an attempt 
 at parturition, and the general and local disturbance in 
 the animal necessitates active interference on the part of 
 the operator, then, of course, the first and most urgent 
 indication is to remove the cause —the putrefying foetus 
 — from the womb. When the mouth of the womb is not 
 sufficiently open to admit the hand and the withdrawal 
 of the foetus, then the case is one of difficult labor, com- 
 plicated by the death of the foetus and its state of de- 
 composition. (For treatment and manipulation see Dif- 
 ficult Labor). If the mouth of the womb should chance 
 to be contracted, it must be dilated either by the afore- 
 mentioned methods, or, if these do not succeed (though 
 they often do), then an incision must be made in the neck 
 of the womb. In very exceptional cases, an operation 
 must be performed on the womb through the abdominal 
 wall (gastro-hysterotomy), if the foetus or its remains 
 are to be got rid of; and in some instances, owing to the 
 air or gas contained in the foetus, its shape or size, or de- 
 formity of the genital passage of the mother, it will be 
 necessary to divide the foetus into fragments, and ex- 
 tract it piecemeal (see Embryotomy). These operations 
 should be attempted only by the experienced Veterinary 
 Surgeon, and not by the Veterinary Practitioner. 
 
 When the womb is emptied of all the matters it con- 
 tains, soHd and fluid, it should be thoroughly cleansed by 
 
90 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 repeated injections or washings with tepid water, and 
 finally with a three per cent, solution of permanganate 
 of potassium, or a solution of carbolic acid (thirty drops 
 of the acid to one pint of tepid water). It is well to re- 
 member, that before making explorations or performing 
 operations, the hands of the operator siiould be cleansed 
 in one of the foregoing solutions. 
 
 General treatment of the animal may be necessary, 
 and this must be regulated according to the indications. 
 In all the manipulative operations subsequent to deliv- 
 ery, it will generally be found that care and patience, 
 and above all things, an absence of undue haste, are com- 
 mendable, and we find excellent pratictioners recommend- 
 ing abstention, at least for a few hours, according to the 
 circumstances. 
 
 ABORTION— MISCARRIAGE. 
 
 When pregnancy is interrupted by the expulsion of 
 the ovum, or of the foetus at a stage when this has not 
 attained sufficient development to live external to its 
 parent, Abortion is said to occur; the young creature is 
 either dead when expelled from the womb, or dies im- 
 mediately afterwards. Abortion must not be confounded 
 with premature birth (which see). 
 
 There is not the same tendency or readiness in all the 
 domesticated animals to abort. The Bitch and Cat rare- 
 ly do so, even after serious injuries; and the Sow retains 
 its foetus almost tenaciously; but the Sheep and Goat 
 are rather liable to this accident. The Cow and Mare, 
 but more especially the Cow, most frequently lose their 
 foetus. Abortion is much more frequent during the first 
 than the second half of pregnancy, and especially is this 
 the case with the Mare. If Abortion occurs at a very 
 early period, the ovum may escape intact and unnoticed, 
 without any disturbance whatever of the health of the 
 female. Abortion is more serious when it happens at a 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 91 
 
 late period; as it then not only causes the loss of the young 
 animal, but it may compromise the value of the mother, 
 or end her existence. The loss to farmers and breeders 
 through their animals aborting is enormous, therefore 
 some space will be given to this accident. 
 
 Abortion presents itself in two distinct forms, and for 
 the convenience of the reader, the two forms will be taken 
 up and explained separately: 1. Sporadic, or Accidental 
 Abortion; 2. Enzootic, Epizootic, or Infectious Abortion. 
 
 SPORADIC, OR ACCIDENTAL ABORTION. 
 
 When cases occur here or there on farms or breeding- 
 establishments over a wide extent of country, without 
 any relationship as to causation, it is termed Sporadic, 
 or Accidental Abortion. 
 
 CAUSES. — The causes of Sporadic Abortion are very 
 numerous, and will be arranged as: 1. External Causes; 
 2. Internal Causes. 
 
 1. EXTERNAL CAUSES.— Atmospherical influenc- 
 es, bad weather, or irregular seasons, are predisposing to 
 or cause abortion. There can be no doubt whatever that 
 cold, and especially when suddenly applied to the skin, 
 may produce abortion; and hence it is that the abrupt 
 setting in of cold weather is often marked by miscarriages 
 among animals exposed to it. Many observers have noted 
 that the continued and severe cold of winter is far less 
 frequently productive of abortions than when cold, wet, 
 or frosty nights in autumn succeed fine warm days. Cold 
 rain is sometimes very damaging in this respect. 
 
 With regard to food and drink in general, we often 
 have an undoubted cause. Food of bad quality, indigest- 
 ible, or containing injurious ingredients, is well known to 
 be dangerous. After unfavorable seasons, when forage 
 has not been well dried and made, abortions are of more 
 frequent occurrence. Indigestible food, or that which has 
 a tendency to collect or ferment in the stomach, may, 
 
1)2 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 by exerting pressure on the womb, produce abortion. 
 On the other hand, too great an abundance of easily-di- 
 gested and stimulating food, by inducing a superabund- 
 ance of blood and consequent congestion of the womb 
 and loosening of the after-birth, has been set down as 
 another cause. Frozen food or water, when taken in im- 
 moderate quantity; and especially if the stomach is near- 
 ly empty, as well as forage or herbage covered with snow^ 
 or frost, are also injurious to the larger animals when preg- 
 nant, and abortion often immediately follows. Filthy, 
 putrid water frequently has a destructive influence on 
 gestation. Some plants — such as horse-tails, sedges, etc., 
 also the leaves of beetroot, readily induce abortion. Rue, 
 savin, ergot of rye, and other abortive remedies will have 
 a tendency to cause expulsion of the foetus more or less 
 readily; and poisonous substances, such as cantharides, 
 which act upon the womb, will do the same. Physics, es- 
 pecially those of a drastic kind, are a fertile cause; and 
 opium, digitalis, and some other drugs have to be admin- 
 istered with caution. Ergotized grasses and grains have 
 often produced wide-spread losses from abortion. 
 
 Excessive muscular exertion and unusual traveling is 
 very likely to produce it, and especially if there are indi- 
 cations of a predisposition to abortion; if the exertion is 
 sudden and severe, or even moderate, but coming after a 
 long period of rest, it is all the more certain to produce 
 abortion. Wounds to the abdomen by kicks or falls, or 
 squeezing through a narrow doorway or passage, railway 
 or steamboat traveling, blows and shocks, keeping the 
 animal in stalls with floors that incline backward, are all 
 causes. Access of the male (copulation) not unfrequently 
 produces a miscarriage; and exploration of the vagina 
 will also cause muscular contractions of the womb, which 
 results in the expulsion of the foetus. Surgical opera- 
 tions performed on pregnant animals, bleeding, or throw- 
 ing a pregnant animal down to be operated upon, is dan- 
 gerous. Carrying a rider, in the case of the Mare, and es- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 1)3 
 
 pecially if the spurs are used, is attended with much risk. 
 Excitement, fear, sudden surprise, or anger, are also 
 causes. Heavy .thunder has sometimes been serious in 
 this way; and the fear produced by dogs leads sometimes 
 to heavy losses among Sheep; fox hounds running near 
 or among pregnant Cattle or Sheep often cause consider- 
 able damage, especially among nervous animals. 
 
 2. INTERNAL CAUSES.— Badly-fed and neglected 
 animals sometime abort, but not nearly so frequently, per- 
 haps, as those in the opposite condition, and extremely 
 fat. It is generally admitted that with some animals there 
 is a special disposition to abort, and sometimes without 
 any noticeable cause, or a very trifling cause, as previous 
 abortions, will induce abortions; while other animals never 
 lose their foetus, though exposed to the influence of ap- 
 parently most powerful causes. The disposition to abort 
 sometimes disappears as age advances. 
 
 A more constant and potent cause, is to be found in 
 the presence of grave diseases, and especially those which 
 affect the system generally, producing more or less de- 
 rangement of all the functions. The various serious epi- 
 zootic maladies, inflammation of the bowels, and all those 
 abdominal disorders which give rise to restlessness, bloat- 
 ing, cough, as well as those diseases which induce cough — 
 as bronchitis, pneumonia, asthma, etc. — pleurisy, and 
 other affections, and injuries accompanied by great pain; 
 as well as nervous or convulsive derangements — such as 
 lock-jaw, epilepsy, vertigo, etc., are all set down as causes. 
 In acute diseases of the mother, which are attended by 
 fever, the foetus may perish from the abnormal accumu- 
 lation of heat. Certain virulent disorders, as foot- 
 and-mouth disease, and tuberculosis, may cause the death 
 and expulsion of the foetus. Dropsy of the head, dropsy 
 of the abdomen, and general dropsy, may also lead to the 
 death of the foetus, and is almost a certain determining 
 cause of its expulsion. Faulty formations or relations 
 between the after-birth, malformations of the foetus, 
 
94 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 malpositions, are other causes. The presence of several 
 foetuses often leads to abortion in the single bearing ani- 
 mals, as the Mare, Cow, and Sheep. Disease of the womb, 
 will be very likely to lead to the premature expulsion of 
 the ovum, or foetus. Inflammation of the womb, as well 
 as new formations, such as tumors and cancers, also 
 enormous tumors in the abdomen, ovarian dropsy, etc., 
 will predispose to or excite abortion. 
 
 Abortion has not unfrequently been ascribed to some 
 defects or other influences in the male, as debility arising 
 from too frequent usage, also poor health. There is 
 abundant evidence that a male enfeebled by too much 
 use, is very likely to be a cause of abortion in the females 
 to which he is put. Abortion has also been said to ^re- 
 c{uently occur when the male was larger and more power- 
 ful than the female. Various injuries, as external violence, 
 may not only injure the womb, so as to produce abortion, 
 but the foetus may sustain bruises and damage. The 
 foetus may be poisoned by food or medicines which do 
 not produce any noticeable effect on the parent. 
 
 SYMPTOMS OF SPORADIC OR, ACCIDENTAL 
 ABORTION.— The symptoms of abortion arc extremely 
 varied. Abortion may occur without any symptoms or 
 demonstrations, so far as the female is concerned; while 
 in others the symptoms indicate a very serious condition. 
 This usually depends on the period of pregnancy at which 
 the accident occurs. 
 
 Generally, abortion takes place without any previous 
 indications, and the animal may be as well and lively as 
 usual up to the moment when the foetus is expelled; and 
 the expulsion itself is so sudden, so prompt, and accom- 
 plished with so little visible effort or disturbance, that 
 the accident in most cases receives very little, if any, 
 notice. It frequently occurs during the night, and won- 
 der is often expressed at finding in the morning the abort- 
 ed foetus — generally contained in its intact envelops — 
 lying behind an animal which, on the previous evening 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. do 
 
 looked perfectly well, and even now is so cheerful and 
 unaltered, and its functions so unimpaired, that it can 
 scarcely be believed that it has been the subject of such 
 a mishap. Even the sentiment of maternity, which is so 
 strongly developed in animals, is not awakened in favor 
 of the expelled foetus, and the mother shows the utmost 
 indiflference to it, even treading on it as if it were in no 
 way related to her. 
 
 When this simple abortion has taken place during the 
 day, it has been noted that the flank falls in a little, the 
 abdomen descends, the vulva and vagina slightly dilate, 
 and there escapes from them a glutinous (sometimes 
 tinged with blood) fluid with which the foetus is passed 
 almost without effort. As before mentioned, the ovum 
 or foetus is generally expelled in its intact membranes; 
 this more frequently happens at an early stage of preg- 
 nancy. Sometimes, however, the water-bag ruptures at 
 the commencement of abortion, and the embryo or foetus 
 escapes with a small quantity of water, the envelops being 
 rejected soon after; or in some instances they may be re- 
 tained in the womb, and thus constitute a source of dan- 
 ger, the animal not making any effort to get rid of them. 
 The foregoing are the symptoms of that which is termed 
 SIMPLE ABORTION, and which is most frequently 
 witnessed during the first half of pregnancy. So little 
 disturbance does this kind of abortion cause, that the 
 animal will not require treatment, with the exception of a 
 little care from exposure for several days. 
 
 In what is termed LABORIOUS, DIFFICULT, or 
 COMPLICATED SPORADIC ABORTION, which is 
 often due to external causes, such as injuries, the preced- 
 ing symptoms are generally well marked, and vary some- 
 what, according as the foetus may be dead or alive. The 
 animal suddenly appears dull and peculiarly dejected; or 
 it is restless, uneasy, and continually moving about; if 
 pregnancy is advanced and the foetus is alive and strong, 
 on watching the abdomen attentivelv, the movements of 
 
06 Obstetrics — Domesticate]) Animals. 
 
 the foetus will be perceived to be frequent, violent, and 
 disordered, but they soon become feeble and infrequent, 
 and cease altogether when the foetus has succumbed. 
 The appetite is lost, a plaintive neigh in the Mare, moan 
 in the Cow, or bleat in the Sheep, is emitted every now and 
 again; the pulse is quick, small, and hard as in haemorrh- 
 age; progression is difficult and unsteady, the expression 
 is anxious, and respiration hurried. When the foetus is 
 alive there is less prostration, and much abdominal pain. 
 The animal often looks anxiously towards the flanks, paws 
 with its fore feet and stamps with its hind ones, moves 
 from side to side, perspires at the flank, breast and else- 
 where; lies down and gets up again, whisks the tail in- 
 cessantly, and exhibits every indication of increasing rest- 
 lessness. At the same time the abdomen loses its round 
 shape, and drops; if the animal is in milk, the udder be- 
 comes soft and diminished in size more or less rapidly, 
 while the milk secretions diminish; but if the animal is 
 not yielding milk, then, on the contrary, the udders en- 
 large and become swollen ; the vulva is puffed and swollen, 
 and from it escapes a tenacious mucus, streaked with 
 blood, and if the foetus is dead this mucus has a more or 
 less foul odor, according to circumstances. Then follow 
 symptoms analogous to those which characterize normal 
 parturition — the womb begins to contract, and the expira- 
 tory muscles act simultaneously with it; the expulsive 
 efforts, or "labour pains," acting more or less energetically 
 and continuously, according to the suddenness of the abor- 
 tion and the strength and health of the animal. The first 
 result of this straining is the evacuation of the rectum 
 and bladder; the next is the dilatation of the mouth of 
 the womb and protrusion of the foetal membranes into 
 the vagina, then through the vulva, where they appear 
 externally as the "water-bag"; this may rupture and the 
 water escape, and the pains becoming more powerful, the 
 foetus is at last expelled, either nude, or covered by the 
 membranes. This act occupies a variable period — from 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 97 
 
 a few to many hours, according to the strength of the ani- 
 mal; and it may even require human intervention to 
 bring it to a successful termination. In other instances, 
 however, the foetus is not expelled immediately after it 
 is dead, but after many of the preceding symptoms just 
 described have been manifested ; with the cessation of the 
 movements of the foetus the animal regains its ordinary 
 tranquility, appetite, and liveliness, and all the symptoms 
 disappear for one or more days, when they again set in, 
 and the foetus may be rejected without any apparent 
 effort, or after much straining. 
 
 In the case of more than one foetus, it may happen 
 that the one nearest to the mouth of the womb is dead, 
 and is expelled, the others being alive are retained until 
 pregnancy is complete; or the contrary may occur, the 
 living foetus being next to the mouth of the womb, pre- 
 vent the escape of the dead one, and these being kept in 
 the womb until the delivery of the others takes place, 
 become compressed, or mummified. When abortion sud- 
 denly sets in, and nothing is prepared for its being carried 
 to a successful termination, either on the part of the foetus 
 or the mother, the mother becomes exhausted by inef- 
 fectual efforts, and soon passes into a crtitcal condition. 
 
 Abortion differs from normal parturition chiefly in 
 the state of the neck of the womb. Towards the termin- 
 ation of pregnancy, this part of the womb becomes grad- 
 ually shortened and softer; but in abortion we do not 
 have these progressive changes which are so favorable to 
 the passage of the foetus from the cavity of the womb 
 outwards. The neck is long and rigid as in the non-preg- 
 nant condition, and its dilatation is therefore slower, 
 more difficult and more incomplete that when gestation 
 has reached its termination. To counterbalance this, 
 there is the small size of the foetus, which does not require 
 so much space for its passage as if it were full grown; so 
 that the difficulty is less on this account, though the other 
 
98 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 difficulties we so often encounter in parturition may all 
 be present. 
 
 RESULTS OF SPORADIC, OR ACCIDENTAL 
 ABORTION. — Abortion is always a serious accident, if 
 only from the loss of the foetus. It is frequently compli- 
 cated by bleeding (haemorrhage), which may have been 
 the first cause of the action of the womb; it may also re- 
 sult in rupture of the womb, from the efforts the ani- 
 mal makes to overcome the resistance offered by the neck 
 of that organ; indeed, we may have the usual complica- 
 tions that attend parturition. But in many cases the 
 complications are few and trifling, the animal experienc- 
 ing very little inconvenience. When the accident occurs 
 in the Cow before the fifth month, the secretion of milk 
 is generally interrupted, often for a year, as the udders 
 have not had time to experience the reflex or sympathetic 
 influence which stimulates them into activity; when, 
 however, it takes place in the last half of pregnancy the 
 secretion may be established, though the yield is usually 
 diminished, and the glands do not furnish their usual 
 quantity until the next pregnancy. 
 
 Abortion may produce protrusion or prolapsus of the 
 womb and vagina, and sometimes even of the rectum. 
 
 When abortion takes place during the latter half of 
 pregnancy, the foetal membranes are frequently retained, 
 wholly or partially, when the foetus comes away; and ow- 
 ing to the condition of the neck of the womb and its rap- 
 id contraction, they are included in the cavity of the 
 womb, and constitute what is termed "retention of 
 the after-birth." This often is a serious complication in 
 the Cow after the first third of pregnancy, the membranes 
 decomposing and giving rise to putrid infection and 
 other alarming conditions. 
 
 In the simplest cases of abortion, "heat" appears in 
 the Cow in from one to two weeks after the miscarriage, 
 and conception may occur then; but frequently impreg- 
 nation does not take place until after several returns of 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 99 
 
 "heat," and often a whole year elapses before impregna- 
 tion. In other instances, "heat" does not appear until 
 the full interval of regular pregnancy has elapsed, and 
 then the animal conceives almost as readily as before the 
 mishap. Another very common result is the tendency to 
 abortion after every conception; and with some animals 
 there remains an almost persistent state of "heat," ac- 
 companied by barrenness. 
 
 DIAGNOSIS. — In the diagnosis we have to determine 
 if abortion is in progress. And to do this in time to pre- 
 vent it, is not so very easy, although it is very easy to dis- 
 tinguish during or after the expulsion of the foetus. But 
 when abortion first manifests itself, the symptoms attend- 
 ing it are very misleading and might be taken for those of 
 slight colic; many good practitioners have been deceived 
 by the signs and symptoms, and have diagnosticated the 
 case either indigestion, inflammation of the bowels, or 
 some other malady which disappears after the expulsion 
 of the foetus. Such a mistake is unfortunate for the rep- 
 utation of the practitioner, as well as for the owner of the 
 animal, whose interests suffer; for if a miscarriage had 
 been diagnosticated in proper time it might have been 
 prevented and pregnancy allowed to run its normal 
 course. To prevent such an error, it is well to know that 
 a mistake is possible ; so that if called in to attend an ani- 
 mal offering some of the foregoing symptoms, the first in- 
 quiry should be as to whether it is pregnant; then the 
 external organs of generation — the vulva and udder — 
 ought to be examined with the greatest care, and the ac- 
 tual symptoms thoroughly taken into consideration. 
 This being done, it will often be found that this is a 
 case of threatened abortion; and that, when taken in 
 time, the abortion can be averted by prompt and proper 
 treatment. 
 
 It may happen that information is required as to 
 whether abortion has occurred in the animal. In the ab- 
 sence of the foetus or its envelops, such a question is not 
 
100 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 •easily answered; and the difficulty is increased if the foe- 
 tus is undeveloped, and a long interval has elapsed since 
 the supposed date of the suspected abortion; and after 
 the fifteenth day it is almost impossible to assert with 
 absolute certainty that abortion has occurred, the gener- 
 ative organs having at that date resumed their ordinary 
 condition. Therefore, it is only by an early inspection of 
 these that we can enlighten ourselves as to what may have 
 taken place. In this inspection is included that of the 
 udders, which are always a little swollen, hard, and pain- 
 ful, and often yield a small quantity of milk after a recent 
 abortion; the tail, the hair of which is soiled and matted 
 by blood, mucus, and the waters; the vulva, which is 
 swollen and dilated, and its membranes often presents, 
 in addition to its uniform and more or less deep-red color, 
 spots due to the rubbing or bruising it experiences during 
 the passage of the foetus. On carefully exploring the va- 
 gina, if the neck of the womb is found to be softer than 
 usual and the mouth of the womb partially open, and bet- 
 ter still, if the hand can be introduced without much dif- 
 ficulty into the cavity of the womb, and a quantity of 
 bloody fluid, or fluid streaked with blood, or remains of 
 foetal membranes, is discovered in the womb, it may be 
 concluded that a foetus has been recently expelled. 
 
 TREATMENT IN SPORADIC, OR ACCIDENTAL 
 ABORTION. — With regard to preventive treatment, this 
 must mainly depend upon a knowledge of the causes 
 which produce abortion (see causes of abortion, also hy- 
 giene of pregnancy) . With regard to animals which have 
 a predisposition to abortion, they should not be bred from. 
 But if it is desired to breed from them, if they are Cows, 
 they must not be frequently put to the male, and certain- 
 ly not before eighteen months or two years have elapsed 
 since the last abortion. When pregnancy has again oc- 
 curred, every precaution should be observed to continue 
 it to a successful termination, by avoiding or removing 
 those causes which previously induced abortion in the ani- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 101 
 
 mal, also the general health should be attended to, there- 
 fore combatting an overabundance of flesh and blood on 
 one hand, or a debilitated condition on the other; guard- 
 ing against constipation by giving proper food and ad- 
 ministering mild physics, as small doses of raw linseed 
 oil; also guarding against irritation. Should there be 
 slight irritations, or any indications of abortion, whether 
 general or of the womb, administer laudanum by the rec- 
 tum; and allow only gentle exercise towards the end of 
 pregnancy. 
 
 DOSE OF LAUDAMUN.— Mare, one drachm; Cow, 
 two drachms; Sheep and Pig, ten drops. Mix the laud- 
 anum with not more than a wine-glassful of warm water, 
 and inject into the rectum. Repeat the injection every 
 two hours if necessary, until three injections have been 
 given. With the Bitch, give three drops of laudanum by 
 the mouth, every two hours, if necessary, until three 
 doses have been given. 
 
 When abortion appears to be close at hand, active and 
 prompt intervention generally becomes necessary in order 
 to avert it. Therefore it must be accurately distinguished 
 if the foetus is alive or dead. (To prepare yourself for 
 this difficulty, carefully read Signs of Pregnancy; espe- 
 cially the Sensible Signs of Pregnancy, in another part of 
 this treatise.) If the foetus is found to be alive, and the 
 membranes are not ruptured, and labor pains have been 
 few and not severe, the abortion may be checked or pre- 
 vented by keeping the animal in the most perfect quiet 
 possible — alone in a darkened place, with doors and win- 
 dows closed, if convenient, and the administration of 
 narcotics. The narcotic may be laudanum, chloral hy- 
 drate, or chloroform. Laudanum is preferable and should 
 be given as follows: 
 
 DOSE OF LAUDANUM.— Mare and Cow, one and 
 one-half drachms. Sheep and Pig, twenty drops. Mix in 
 not more than a wine-glassful of tepid water, and give 
 by the rectum in the form of an injection. Repeat the in- 
 
10^ Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 jection in half an hour, if necessary, and thereafter every 
 hour until the pain and straining have subsided. 
 
 Some authorities prefer chloroform and assert that 
 it has yielded extraordinary results in abortion cases, by 
 suddenly arresting the straining. 
 
 DOSE OF CHLOROFORM TO PREVENT ABOR- 
 TION. — Mare and Cow, two drachms; Sheep and Pig, 
 twenty drops; Bitch, ten drops. As chloroform is very 
 volatile it will be necessary to mix it quickly with three 
 or four ounces of sweet oil and give it at once by the mouth 
 as a draught. Repeat the dose in half an hour if neces- 
 sary, and every hour thereafter until the pain and strain- 
 ing subsides. 
 
 After the administration of either laudanum or chloro- 
 form, the abdomen should be gently rubbed for some time, 
 and the stall well bedded; and if the animal will eat and 
 drink, allow only small quantities of gruel for one or two 
 days, or until all danger has passed, when it may be grad- 
 ually put upon ordinary diet, and allowed to resume slow 
 and light occupation. 
 
 If the foetus is found to be dead, or if the foetus is 
 alive and the foetal membranes are ruptured, which is in- 
 dicated by the escape of the waters, abortion is inevitable, 
 and there are no means of preventing the expulsion of 
 the foetus; the object must then be to favor the expulsion 
 of the foetus, as speedily as possible, and remove the envel- 
 ops, should there be any likelihood of their being retained 
 in the womb. In the majority of cases, active interven- 
 tion is of but little value, and is only to be recommended 
 when the labour is slow and tedious, and the animal is 
 becoming exhausted by fruitless straining, or when labour 
 is altogether suspended after the escape of the"waters." 
 When intervention is decided upon, oil the hand and with 
 it remove all the dung from the rectum; then cleanse the 
 hand with tepid water, and finally with a solution of car- 
 bolic acid (thirty drops of the acid to one pint of water) ; 
 now oil the hand with clean oil — as sweet oil, or fresh 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals, 103 
 
 lard — and carefully introduce the oiled hand into the 
 vagina, and if the mouth of the womb is found to be con- 
 tracted or not sufficiently open to admit the hand, it 
 must be gently dilated by the index or other fingers, un- 
 til the interior of the womb can be reached, when the foe- 
 tus is to be seized and removed in the usual way; should 
 it be in a wrong position, or should there be any obstacles 
 to its egress, then we must proceed according to directions 
 given in abnormal presentations of the foetus. In abor- 
 tion the foetus being small, we seldom encounter any 
 difficulties from this cause. 
 
 If it should happen that the neck of the womb is con- 
 tracted, and shows no sign of yielding to gentle manipu- 
 lation of the fingers, then measures should be adopted 
 to relax it. For this purpose belladonna ointment will 
 be found to be very serviceable; take of the powdered 
 extract of belladonna one part, to four parts of lard; mix, 
 and introduce into the vagina, and with the hand apply 
 around the neck of the womb. Should this fail, other 
 means must be resorted to, as described under Mechan- 
 ical Dilatation ot the Mouth of the Womb. If the passage 
 has become dry after the escape of the "waters," injec- 
 tions of glycerine will be lound beneficial. Powdered 
 extract of belladonna should be administered internally, 
 particularly if the animal is exhausted. 
 
 DOSE OF POWDERED EXTRACT OF BELLA- 
 DONNA. — Mare and Cow, ten grains; Sheep and Pig, two 
 grains; Bitch, one-eighth grain. Repeat the dose every 
 six hours until the animal is relieved. Gruel, beef-tea, 
 milk, or other strengthening fluids will also be required. 
 
 If the membranes come away with the foetus, there is 
 little more to be done; though in the contrary case, which 
 frequently occurs in abortion as well as premature birth, 
 the membranes are strongly adherent to the after-birth 
 of the womb, and their retention, particularly in Cattle» 
 is often troublesome. Some practition^-rs prefer to re- 
 move these membranes immediately by carefully separ- 
 
104 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 ating them with the hand; and this is easily accompHshed 
 so long as the mouth of the womb is dilated, which it 
 usually is for three days after delivery. Other practi- 
 tioners prefer to wait for nature's assistance, and only 
 provide the following simple precautions: When they 
 find the membranes firmly adherent, and their separa- 
 tion from the womb likely to be attended with inconven- 
 ience, as well as injury, they only partially detach them, 
 then collect and twist them into a rope-like form, and 
 leave the mass protruding through the mouth of the 
 womb, in the vagina; so that should the neck of the womb 
 contract, this rope-like mass can be gently pulled, which 
 will not only assist in the expulsion of the membranes, 
 but will excite the muscles o^^ the womb to action and 
 causing that organ to renew its efforts, of expulsion. In a 
 short time the after-birth becomes loosened and is then 
 readily removed by gentle pulling of the rope mass. How- 
 ever, caution must be used in pulling this rope, or it will 
 tear and become severed from the main portion. (Also 
 read Retention of the Foetal Envelops or After-birth.) 
 A few experienced practitioners rely on internal medicine 
 for the separation of the after-birth and the membranes. 
 One of them, has long and successfully administered 
 the following: 
 
 Powdered Laurel Berries, one and three fourths ounce 
 
 Bicarbonate of Soda one ounce 
 
 Infusion ot Fennel hali pint 
 
 Mix and give as a drench at one dose to the Mare and 
 Cow; give one-half as a dose to the Sheep and Pig, and 
 one-third to the Bitch and Cat. Repeat the dose three 
 times a day until the membranes pass away, which will 
 usually take place on the second or third day. Also give 
 to the Mare and Cow about eight or ten pints a day of 
 a decoction of the meal of linseed-cake until the mem- 
 branes have passed. Give proportionately to other ani- 
 mals. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. , 105 
 
 An animal which has aborted requires attention after 
 the delivery of the foetus. It should be kept clean, fed on 
 gruel and easily digested food, though not in excess; kept 
 from draughts of air, particularly in cold weather, and 
 nursed for some days. The complications which some- 
 times accompany this accident are the same as those of 
 normal parturition, and will be alluded to under that sub- 
 ject (which see). The animal should not be allowed to 
 become impregnated at the next period of heat, and per- 
 haps better if not at the succeeding period. 
 
 EPIZOOTIC, ENZOOTIC, OR INFECTIOUS 
 ABORTION. 
 
 This differs from sporadic, or accidental abortion par- 
 ticularly from its attacking all, or nearly all, the pregnant 
 animals (especially the Cows) on a farm or pasture, over 
 a wide district, or even throughout an entire country, for 
 perhaps a succession of years — thus constituting itself a 
 veritable scourge to agriculture. In the United States, it 
 has proved a scourge in some of the horse producing re- 
 gions, where it seems to have made its appearance in 
 recent years. It is only since 1866 that it has attracted 
 attention in the Mississippi Valley, and gradually in- 
 creasing in severity, in 1889 and 1890 it caused great 
 havoc — the losses through Mares aborting amounting to 
 as many as 75 per cent, in some regions; in others, one- 
 half of the Mares aborted. The Horse-breeding areas in 
 Illinois and adjoining states suffered most. In Kentucky 
 in 1892, it was reported that 75 per cent, of the brood 
 Mares were either barren or had lost their Foals that 
 spring. And since that date infectious abortion has given 
 more or less trouble in different sections of the United 
 States. 
 
 CAUSES OF EPIZOOTIC, ENZOOTIC, OR IN- 
 FECTIOUS ABORTION.— So long ago as the end of the 
 last century, contagion or infection was believed to play 
 
106 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 the principal, if not the sole part in many outbreaks; for 
 it was observed that when a Cow aborted in a place where 
 other pregnant Cows were kept, these would abort in suc- 
 cession until all, or nearly all, had miscarried. Not only 
 this, but it has often happened that a newly purchased Cow- 
 in-calf has been introduced into a farm where the Cows 
 had already calved favorably at the proper time; and 
 when the stranger has aborted, first one, then another, 
 then a third, and so on, of the others have experienced the 
 same misfortune, and the malady has persisted in the 
 place for consecutive years. Again, when pregnant Cows 
 which were living in a place where the disease had not 
 existed, have been introduced into a stable where it pre- 
 vails, those that are at the end of gestation calve regularly 
 and normally; but if they are a certain time in the infect- 
 ed stable before this period is reached, they abort like 
 the others. The bad hygiene of cowsheds and stables 
 appear to have no influence on abortion, as it appears 
 quite as severely and readily in those which are well 
 ventilated and cleansed as in those in the opposite con- 
 ditions; in fact, nothing can so well explain the occurrence 
 of particular outbreaks of epizootic or infectious abortion 
 as the presence of a contagious or miasmatic infection. 
 
 It has been proven and established by microscopical 
 investigation, that on the lining membrane of the vagina 
 and vulva there is constantly found a minute fungus 
 mixed with mucus, which is a kind of bacilli or microbe. 
 Towards the period of parturition these bodies become 
 extraordinarily abundant, and they seem to cause the de- 
 composition of the foetal membranes and their expulsion; 
 when the after-birth and membranes are retained and 
 putrefy in the womb, these microbes are extremely nu- 
 merous. It has been asserted that it is sufficient to in- 
 troduce into the vagina some of these microbes or bac- 
 teria, which will multiply there, and penetrating to the 
 womb, commence their work of decomposition, to pro- 
 duce abortion. In cases where these microbes were in- 
 
■ Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 107 
 
 occulated'in Cows which were pregnant from five to seven 
 months, in twelve, fourteen, and twenty-one days after 
 the inocculation they aborted. It has also been shown 
 that by smearing the canal of the vagina of a pregnant 
 animal to a certain depth with the matter from the ex- 
 pelled membranes of one which has been delivered, abor- 
 tion can be induced. 
 
 There is sufficient proof that infectious abortion is 
 caused by a specific germ or microbe that, when trans- 
 mitted from an animal that has aborted, or from the 
 aborted foetus or its envelops, to another pregnant ani- 
 mal of the same species, will cause it to abort. The mi- 
 crobe may obtain introduction to the genital passage 
 through actual contact with these matters, or the air may 
 carry it to them when the discharges have become dried. 
 
 In the animal which has aborted the previous year, 
 and is afterw^ard barren, a mixed variety of microbes will 
 be found, while the matter obtained by scraping the lin- 
 ing membrane of the womb gives a slightly acid reaction 
 which is undoubtedly the cause of the animal being in- 
 capable of impregnation; as the male generative germ 
 (spermatozoa) cannot retain vitality in other than an 
 alkaline medium. 
 
 SYMPTOMS OF EPIZOOTIC, ENZOOTIC, OR IN- 
 FECTIOUS ABORTION.— It is rare that this kind of 
 abortion occurs before the first third of pregnancy has 
 passed; more frequently it occurs during the second half 
 of pregnancy. There are no premonitory symptoms, ex- 
 cept perhaps a trifling uneasiness for a few hours previous, 
 with sinking of the flanks and descent of the abdomen; 
 the animal generally looks well and hearty, and yields its 
 supply of milk as usual; and soon after the foetus is ex- 
 pelled, apparently without any effort or inconvenience, 
 and along with its membranes, if these are not ruptured, 
 with or without them when they are ruptured. It is rare, 
 however, that the ruptured membranes are rejected im- 
 mediately after the foetus; as a rule they are nearly al- 
 
108 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 ways retained, particularly when pregnancy is advanced, 
 when they are retained they putrefy in the womb, being 
 got rid of only in shreds at intervals. When attempts are 
 made to remove them by hand, this is found much more 
 difficult than after ordinary parturition; owing to the 
 membranes being very adherent. When the membranes 
 come away slowly, the animal generally loses in appetite 
 and condition, goes off its milk, and sometimes perishes. 
 If the animal recovers, "heat" appears unnaturally fre- 
 quent, though conception is infrequent and barrenness 
 common; and on the other hand, there are some ani- 
 mals which expel the membranes quickly, conceive soon 
 after, but again abort as readily — perhaps three times in 
 the course of a year. 
 
 The foetus is usually dead, though when it is expelled 
 during the second half of pregnancy it may be alive; but 
 it is weakly and soon dies, even when born near the ter- 
 mination of pregnancy. These newly born animals make 
 a rattling noise when breathing, accompanied by the dis- 
 charge of a rusty-colored mucilaginous fluid from the 
 nostrils; they are attacked by diarrhoea, and are always 
 emaciated and flabby, the gums and palate being pale. 
 
 As has been stated, all the animals on a pasture or in 
 a shed where the disease prevails, do not abort at the 
 came time, but at intervals. When one aborts, another 
 appears to prepare for the event, which may occur in 
 about eight days; then some days after this it is the turn 
 of another, and so on until two-thirds, or perhaps even all. 
 of the pregnant animals beyond the first third of gestation 
 have aborted. It has also been mentioned that it is only 
 after being some time in sheds in which the disease is pres- 
 ent, that newly purchased animals are attacked; those 
 which are nearing parturition escape abortion. There 
 are instances recorded in which a pregnant Cow, leaving 
 a shed in which abortion prevailed, and transferred to 
 another where the accident has not been seen, would re- 
 main all right for some time, then suddenly miscarry, 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 100 
 
 and in the course of about fifteen days other abortions 
 would occur in this shed, therefore the danger of keep- 
 ing pregnant animals in contact with or in proximity to 
 those which have miscarried in this way. It has also been 
 stated that an animal which aborts either remains 
 barren, or has always a tendency to abort again. But it 
 has been observed, especially in Cows, that if they are 
 well fed, the period that elapses after each abortion is 
 often longer; so that if a Cow aborts the first time at six 
 months, it will do so the second time at the seventh 
 month, and the third time a little before the ninth month, 
 reaching its full peroid in three pregnancies. 
 
 One of the peculiarities of infectious abortion in the 
 Mare which is not so perceptible in the other domesticated 
 animals is, that very often nothing at all is noticed, the 
 animal appearing in as good health as usual; in other in- 
 stances there is uneasiness, which might pass without at- 
 tracting much attention. Very often the first indication 
 observed is the return of "heat" in Mares supposed to be 
 some months pregnant; and the animals being at pasture, 
 the expelled foetus escapes detection, until in some of 
 the Mares pregnancy has considerably advanced, when 
 the size of the abortions lead to the discovery that the 
 disease is rife. The Foals that live for a short time have 
 inflammation of the joints, which often run on to sup- 
 puration. 
 
 TREATMENT FOR EPIZOOTIC, ENZOOTIC, OR 
 INFECTIOUS ABORTION.— If the malady is suspected 
 to be due to any one particular cause, or if there exists 
 predisposing causes, then the indications for the preven- 
 tion or cure of this accident are obvious. In the debilitat- 
 ed state which seems to favor the occurrence of infec- 
 tious abortion in or after certain rainy seasons, should be 
 remedied by good food and tonics, especially is copperas 
 (ferri sulphate) a serviceable tonic in a debilitated state 
 as well as when abortion is due to ergotized food. 
 
 DOSE OF COPPERAS.— Mare, one drachm; Cow, 
 
110 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 two drachms; Sheep and Pig, twenty grains; Bitch and 
 Cat, one grain. To be given three times a day mixed with 
 the food. 
 
 In cattle-sheds where Cows aborted year after year, 
 Brauer has employed carbolic acid with the most marked 
 success. He gave it to Cows which were from five to seven 
 months pregnant, by subcutaneous (hypodermic) injec- 
 tion in the neighborhood of the flank, the dose being two 
 Pravaz syringefuls of a two per cent, solution of the acid. 
 
 If, however, abortion is due to the presence of microbes 
 transferred from an infected animal, or from something 
 which has belonged to an affected animal — then the first 
 and fundamental indication is to remove or isolate the 
 source of mischief. When, therefore, abortion occurs, 
 and there is reason to believe that this accident is in its 
 nature infectious, the foetus and all pertaining to it should 
 be removed as promptly and completely as possible from 
 the shed or place in which the abortion has occurred. 
 The animal itself should also be removed — or, better 
 still, the other pregnant animals in the same barn or shed 
 should be moved away to another building — and either 
 kept altogether isolated, or at least away from all other 
 pregnant animals. The animal which has aborted should 
 have a special attendant; this attendant should not go 
 near the unaffected pregnant animals, and the excretions 
 from this animal should be carefully kept out of the way 
 of the other animals. The place in which the abortion 
 has occurred, and especially if it contains more pregnant 
 animals, ought to be immediately cleared of all manure 
 and other matters of an objectionable kind, the drains 
 and the floor — particularly that of the stall which has 
 been occupied by the animal which has aborted — being 
 thoroughly swilled with water, and sprinkled with lime 
 and sulphur, to which has been added a very small quan- 
 tity of carbolic acid; the walls should also be lime-washed; 
 a good layer of straw may then be laid down, and the 
 animals replaced. The stables should be kept clean and 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. Ill 
 
 well ventilated for a number of days, and the drains well 
 flushed and disinfected with lime and carboHc acid. 
 
 The animal which has aborted must also at once be 
 attended to. If the membranes have not been discharged, 
 they should be removed as early as possible, and not al- 
 lowed to putrefy; their removal should be effected by the 
 hand, the same as in sporadic abortion (which see). 
 After the removal of the membranes inject the following 
 solution into the vagina and womb: 
 
 CarboHc Acid thirty drops. 
 
 Water (warm) one pint. 
 
 And with a 5 per cent, solution of carbolic acid sponge 
 thoroughly about the vulva, over the tail and down the 
 back part of the thighs. The membranes themselves, 
 must be destroyed or buried, and the animal should not 
 be allowed to go near others which are pregnant so long 
 as there is any discharge from the vulva; for safety, the 
 period of isolation should extend at least to from eight, 
 to fifteen days. The animal may require good nursing in 
 the meantime ; and it should not be put to the male until, 
 every trace of irritation in the generative organs has dis- 
 appeared. If animals show any symptoms of impending 
 abortion, they ought to be promptly removed from the 
 vicinity of others which are pregnant. 
 
 The following precautionary treatment, wherever- 
 adopted, has been found exceedingly successful, in sta- 
 bles where abortion among animals is frequent: 1. Once 
 a week the stables are to be well cleansed, particularly 
 behind the animals, and then sprinkled with a strong 
 solution of sulphate of copper, or of carbolic acid — one 
 part to fifty of water. 2. The tail, anus, vulva, and thence 
 downwards to the hoofs of the hind limbs of every animal 
 inhabiting these infected stables, to be sponged with the^ 
 following preparation: 
 
113 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals, 
 
 Distilled or Rain Water two gallons. 
 
 Hydrochloric Acid . . . .two and one-half ounces. 
 Corrosive Sublimate . . two and one-half drachms. 
 
 These ingredients to be thoroughly mixed; and as the 
 preparation is poisonous to man and beast, care must be 
 taken. 
 
 Foals affected with joint-disease (this being considered 
 of the same nature as that which leads to abortion, and 
 capable of producing that accident) should be destroyed 
 and their bodies burnt; if, however, the Foal is suffered 
 to live, it should be separated from pregnant Mares before 
 the swellings have suppurated or become sores. All Mares 
 dams of Foals with affected joints, should be subjected 
 to the same antiseptic treatment as if they had aborted. 
 
 Should abortion be traced to the food — ergotized or 
 otherwise damaged fodder, or water, of course the use of 
 this must, if possible, be prohibited, and a change resorted 
 to. If the pasture grasses are ergotized, then the pregnant 
 animals, as a matter of precaution, should be removed 
 from them, and placed in more favorable conditions with 
 regard to food. It may be remarked ergotized or mouldy 
 dry forage may be rendered safe for consumption by scald- 
 ing it with boiling water or steam, or pickling it in salt. 
 
 It should not be forgotten that, whether abortion be 
 due to casual causes or to a virulent microbe, and when- 
 ever or wherever the accident occurs — whether at pas- 
 ture, in strawyard, shed, or stable — the greatest possi- 
 ble care should be taken to isolate the animal, if it is with 
 pregnant animals of the same species, and to bury every- 
 thing — foetus, membranes, etc., as well as to destroy all 
 traces of discharges. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals, , 113 
 
 NORMAL PARTURITION— NATURAL BIRTH 
 
 NATURAL LABOR OR NATURAL 
 
 DELIVERY. 
 
 NORMAL, NATURAL PARTURITION, or BIRTH 
 is the expulsion of the foetus from the womb through the 
 maternal passages, by natural forces, when it is sufficiently- 
 developed to live external to its parent. This act is des- 
 ignated "foaling" when occurring in the Mare, "calving" 
 in the Cow, "lambing" in the Sheep, "pupping" in the 
 Bitch, etc. It receives the designation of "normal," 
 "natural," when it is accomplished in a manner favorable 
 to the parent and offspring by natural forces alone, with- 
 out foreign assistance. Parturition even when natural, 
 is accompanied by pain, general disturbance, and un- 
 easiness, violent efforts. And during birth nature 
 does not appear to obey those immutable laws so strictly 
 as in the accomplishment of other physiological acts, but 
 makes frequent and wide deviations; though these do not 
 often compromise the final result. We never find two 
 births exactly alike, but each offers something peculiar 
 when attentively observed. 
 
 CAUSES OF PARTURITION.— Though parturition 
 only occurs at the end of pregnancy, nevertheless this act 
 is being prepared for from an early period in the develop- 
 ment of the ovum. During the evolution and develop- 
 ment of the ovum, the womb increases in a corresponding 
 manner, and its muscular structure is proportionately 
 augmented. When, towards the termination of pregnan- 
 cy, the ovum has reached maturity, and the organs neces- 
 sary for the independent existence of the foetus are com- 
 pletely developed, certain alterations occur, both in the 
 womb and the foetal connections with it, which bring 
 about the expulsion of the young creature. 
 
 These alterations would appear to consist in a grad- 
 ually increasing fatty degeneration of the membranes, 
 which are gradually destroyed by a regressive process in 
 
114 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 the cells lying between them; while the blood which was 
 sent to the womb is now diverted towards the udder, for 
 the secretion of milk. The exchange of materials between 
 the womb and foetus is lessened; the foetus is always 
 more or less of a parasite, but with its greatly augmented 
 weight and volume it becomes like a foreign body in the 
 cavity of the womb, which aids in the change. At all the 
 places where the cell degeneration has reached a certain 
 stage, the termination of the nerves are irritated. But to 
 obtain a reflex action, and consequent contraction of the 
 muscles of the womb, a certain amount of continuous irri- 
 tation is necessary. This sum once obtained, a reflex ac- 
 tion takes place in the form of a contraction, which, how- 
 ever, is slight at the beginning. Then a pause follows, 
 until the sum of the irritation is again sufficient to cause 
 a contraction. By the increase in intensity of the con- 
 tractions the wall of the womb is removed from the foetal 
 envelops or membranes, and this separation becomes a 
 new source of irritation to the nerve-fibers of the womb. 
 The reflex action, in the form of labor-pains, becomes 
 more powerful, until these follow at last in rapid suc- 
 cession and complete the expulsion of the young creature. 
 EXPELLING POWERS IN NATURAL PARTURI- 
 TION, OR LABOUR.— The expulsive force by which 
 parturition is effected resides in the muscular fibers of the 
 womb; these cause the womb to contract in a rhythmical 
 and involuntary manner, the contraction of the abdominal 
 muscles being merely auxiliary. Expulsion is not effected 
 by one contraction, but by a series of contractions, which 
 are accompanied by pain and designated "labour pains"; 
 between each of these there is an interval of apparent re- 
 pose, during which the womb seems to be gathering 
 strength for a new effort. At the commencement, corre- 
 sponding to the slight irritation, the contraction is feeble 
 and short, and the time required to obtain the necessary 
 sum of irritation for a new reflex action is comparatively 
 long; though the walls of the womb are not relaxed on 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 116 
 
 their contents. As parturition progresses, and the sep- 
 aration between the womb and foetus increases, the irri- 
 tation becomes stronger and the intervals between the 
 contractions shorter, while the labour pains become more 
 intense and of longer duration. 
 
 At the first, and second stage of parturition, the whole 
 of the womb contracts during each regular pain. The 
 horns of the womb likewise contract; they are twisted on 
 themselves, are shortened through the action of the mus- 
 cles, and are brought nearer the body of the womb, which 
 is also shortened; and as this shortening is always taking 
 place in the direction of the neck of the womb, it is here 
 that the sum total of the expelling force is centered; and 
 it is this force, commencing to operate at the body of the 
 womb, and exerted on the "water bag," which gradually 
 opens the mouth of the womb for the extrusion or thrust- 
 ing out of the foetus. The foetus with its envelops, first 
 acts as a stimulus to the womb, but they soon begin to 
 play quite a mechanical part in the dilatation of the al- 
 ready greatly shortened neck of the womb, which becomes 
 thinner as the contractions force the bag of waters against 
 it; so that the mouth of the womb is gradually widened, 
 and the neck really becomes a part of the womb cavity. 
 As soon as the mouth of the womb is slightly opened, the 
 bag of waters enters it and acts as a mechanical dilator; 
 then the lower parts of the forelimbs, succeeded by the 
 head of the foetus, are introduced, and from their com- 
 bined shape act like a wedge, until, by the irregular pres- 
 sure, the chest is passed in, and the neck of the womb 
 being drawn over the presenting parts, the mouth of the 
 womb is of the same diameter as the vagina, which then, 
 with the womb, constitutes one common cavity. 
 
 If the womb of single bearing animals contain two 
 foetuses, the two horns of the womb are about the same 
 size, each having a foetus, in the same position as if there 
 were only one in the cavity of the womb. In general, the 
 two foetuses present the fore limbs, although it sometimes 
 
116 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 happens that the second or the first, or even both, pre- 
 sent posteriorly; frequently the second foetus makes a 
 mal-presentation. In the twin births, parturition is more 
 difficult and slower than when there is only one; another 
 feature in twin pregnancies is that parturition often occurs 
 before the ordinary time; and even when this has been 
 reached, usually one or both foetuses are smaller and 
 weaker than when there is only a single foetus. When 
 twin parturition sets in, the womb contraction commences 
 almost simultaneously in both horns; but as the two foe- 
 tuses cannot be born together, that which is most ad- 
 vanced is delivered first, the other, which is behind it, 
 
 C^ — (^ 
 
 Fig. 14. 
 DILATOR OF THE NECK OF THE WOMB. 
 
 mechanically aiding in its expulsion. In the Mare the 
 interval between the birth of twins is rarely more than 
 ten minutes; with the Cow it may be one or two 
 hours; and with the Ewe half an hour. When the posi- 
 tion of the second foetus is favorable, it is usually expelled 
 more rapidly and easily than the first. When the number 
 of foetuses are greater than two, they are also expelled 
 at intervals. 
 
 With the small multiparous animals, in which the foe- 
 tuses are expelled one after another, each fraction of the 
 womb corresponding to a foetus contracts in turn — at first 
 the segment of one of the horns nearest the neck of the 
 womb, then the next segment, and so on until the one in 
 the region of the ovary is reached, so as to get rid of all 
 successively; although the contractions of the womb are 
 general, they are more energetic at the portions inter- 
 mediate to the foetuses. 
 
 The contractions of the womb are very powerful. 
 They are always more continuous and energetic in the 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. ll'? 
 
 Mare than in the Cow. Frequently they are more power- 
 ful in weak-looking animals than in those which are ro- 
 bust and vigorous; their energy depending upon the mus- 
 cular structure of the womb. 
 
 After the complete dilatation of the mouth of the 
 womb, the third stage of delivery begins; the resistance 
 is no longer at the neck of the womb, but in the womb it- 
 self, and now the muscles of that organ come into action, 
 in order to diminish the cavity of the womb and quite 
 expel its contents. In this they are greatly aided by the 
 
 Fig. 15. 
 
 NORMAL POSITION OF THE FOETUS IN THE MARE AT 
 THE FIRST STAGE OF PARTURITION. 
 
 abdominal muscles, which until now could assist but lit- 
 tle; the animal strains, as in voiding dung or urine, but 
 with all its force; and these efforts in which nearly all the 
 muscles of the trunk share, soon bring labour to a ter- 
 mination. 
 
 SIGNS AND COURSE OF NORMAL PARTURITION, 
 OR LABOUR. 
 
 For convenience and facility of description and study, 
 the entire peiiod of labour will be divided into four stages 
 
118 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 or periods; 1. Preliminary Stage; 2. Dilatation of the 
 Mouth of the Womb ; 3. Expulsion of the foetus; 4. Ex- 
 pulsion of the Membranes. 
 
 1. SIGNS AND COURSE OF THE PRELIMIN- 
 ARY STAGE OF NORMAL LABOUR.— One of the 
 most important signs is the enlargement and increased 
 sensibility of the udders to which the excess of blood no 
 longer required in the womb is directed. These glands 
 become voluminous, hard and tender; and these signs are 
 more remarkable in those animals whose milk is not 
 utilized after the young have been weaned. In the Mare 
 and Ewe, the udders, ordinarily small and scarcely per- 
 ceptible, before parturition they become so remarkably 
 developed as to to cause alarm in people who do not un- 
 derstand the cause. With the Mare especially, the de- 
 velopment of the udder is sometimes so great, that the 
 enlargement extends along the surface of the belly and 
 has the appearance of a watery swelling; or it ascends 
 between the thighs as high as the vulva as a prominent 
 ridge, while the skin in the region generally looks red- 
 dened. At a later period, the teats yield a watery fluid 
 or pressure, which afterwards becomes the "colostrum" 
 or first milk. 
 
 Another preliminary sign is the increase of space be- 
 tween the lips of the vulva, which become soft and flabby, 
 while their lining membrane is reddened, and a glairy mu- 
 cus covers, it This mucus soon becomes so abundant 
 that it is discharged in long, thread-like streams, par- 
 ticularly in the Cow, and soils the tail and hocks; it is 
 destined to lubricate the genital passages, and facilitate 
 the extrusion of the foetus. With these changes, the abdo- 
 men falls, or rather, becomes more pendant; the croup 
 and the flanks look hollow, due to the relaxation of the 
 broad ligaments. The spine in the lumbar region inclines 
 downward, as if yielding to the weight of the abdomen. 
 The haunches appear to be wider apart. The animal 
 walks sluggishly and unwillingly, and if grazing with 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 119 
 
 others does not appear to care about following them. 
 Sometimes there is swelling of the limbs, particularly 
 the hind ones. If very careful exploration or ex- 
 amination of the vagina be made at this time, it will be 
 found that the neck of the womb has become a part of 
 the womb cavity, being reduced to merely a thin circu- 
 lar ring; it is soft to the touch, and the mouth of the womb 
 is slightly open in those animals which have previously 
 had young. 
 
 As parturition draws nearer, these signs are more 
 marked. The animal also begins to be restless, and con- 
 tinually agitated; if feeding it stops for some moments, 
 as if listening to some sound only audible to itself, or as 
 if experiencing some strange internal sensation for the 
 first time, which undoubtedly is the commencing con- 
 tractions of the womb. Frequently the animal lies down 
 and gets up again, as if suffering from colic. Some are 
 quite mute, though anxious and uneasy; while others, 
 in addition to exhibiting restlessness and distress, uttera 
 half-stifled cry of pain. The Mare whisks its tail, the Cow 
 bellows, the Ewe bleats, the Bitch often whines, and the 
 Cat emits a low cry as if in suffering. If the animal is at 
 liberty it seeks a remote quiet place in which to bring 
 forth its young, and the Bitch, Cat, Sow, and Rabbit 
 prepare a special nest. 
 
 SECOND STAGE OF NATURAL LABOR; DILA- 
 TATION OF THE MOUTH OF THE WOMB.— This is 
 marked by increasing uneasiness of the animal; pawing, 
 lying down and rising frequently in a kind of aimless fash- 
 ion, while the expression of the face betrays suffering. 
 When the contractions of the womb really commence, the 
 creature suddenly stops, as if surprised by pain; its eye 
 looks animated and expresses anguish; the skin is hot, 
 pulse quickened, the abdominal walls are rigid and con- 
 tracted, the flank is tense, and very frequently dung or 
 urine are voided. During pain at this period, if the neck 
 of the womb is examined, it will be found that its border 
 
120 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 has a tendency to become hard and prominent. When 
 the pain has passed, calm succeeds; the neck of the womb 
 becomes thick and elastic, and the mouth of the womb is 
 markedly enlarged. Each pain lasts for some seconds to 
 two or three minutes, the interval of quiet continuing to 
 about fifteen minutes at first; though the interval dim- 
 inishes when the contractions become more frequent, 
 energetic, and prolonged. Then the foetal membranes 
 
 Fig. 16. 
 
 NORMAL POSITION OF THE FOETUS IN THE MARE AT 
 
 THE SECOND STAGE OF PARTURITION. 
 
 begin to be detached from the inner surface of the womb 
 and enter the mouth, whence they pass into the vagina 
 and between the lips of the vulva, where they appear ex- 
 ternally as the "water-bag." In the meantime, the fore 
 limbs and the nose and head of the foetus enter the mouth 
 of the womb, and dilate it to its fullest extent, when 
 the cavity of the womb forms a canal continuous with 
 the vagina. 
 
 THIRD STAGE OF NATURAL LABOR.: EXPUL- 
 SION OF THE FOETUS.— The pains become more se- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 121 
 
 vere, frequent and sustained, and to the muscular con- 
 tractions of the womb are added those of the abdominal 
 and other muscles. If the animal is standing, it brings 
 all its limbs under the body, arches the back, elevates 
 the tail, slightly flexes the hocks, takes a deep breath, 
 and by a powerful contraction of all the muscles of the 
 trunk, it brings such an amount of pressure to bear on 
 the foetus as to propel it into the pelvic cavity. The 
 "water-bag" which protrudes beyond the vulva, increas- 
 
 Fig. 17. 
 
 NORMAL POSITION OF THE FOETUS IN THE MARE AT 
 
 THE THIRD STAGE OF PARTURITION. 
 
 es in volume at each contraction of the womb. The size 
 of the "water-bag" varies in different animals; being in 
 the Cow about as large as the bladder of a Pig, and in the 
 Bitch the size of the carp's swimming bladder. The 
 "water-bag" is much slower to rupture in the Mare than 
 in the Cow, and it frequently happens that the Foal is 
 born in the "bag" without rupture taking place. When 
 the rupture takes place late it is more favorable than when 
 it occurs early. When rupture occurs too early, and be- 
 fore the foetus has been sufficiently expelled, the parts. 
 
122 
 
 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals, 
 
 become dry, and labour is always longer and more pain- 
 ful and difficult for the mother, while it is often fatal to 
 the foetus. When the "water-bag" ruptures, its con- 
 tents partly escape — that behind the chest of the foetus 
 being retained, and voided only in a small quantity as 
 the womb contracts. When the membranes are weaker 
 and thinner than usual, they may rupture before the 
 mouth of the womb is completely dilated, and then the 
 
 Fig. 18. 
 
 POSTERIOR POSITION OF THE FOETUS AT THE THIRD 
 
 STAGE OF NORMAL PARTURITION. 
 
 fluid escapes in a small quantity at a time ; this frequently 
 happens with the first birth, though it is sometimes ob- 
 served in protracted labour, which is most painful. Gen- 
 erally, no harm results from this premature rupture if 
 parturition is not too long delayed; indeed, in some cases 
 it may be useful, as when the womb is over-distended 
 with fluid. In other instances the membranes may be 
 remarkably strong, and artificial rupture may be even 
 
Obstetrics— Domesticated Animals. 133 
 
 required. The contractions are most energetic and rapid, 
 and every time they are made the waters flow in small 
 quantity, moistening and relaxing the parts; the foetus 
 passes on until the fore feet and muzzle, forming a kind 
 of cone, appear at the vulva, the orifice of which is opened 
 by them. When the head has cleared the vulva, there is 
 usually a short pause, as if to allow the muscles of this 
 region to become accustomed to the distention, and to 
 prepare them for the still greater strain, the passing of 
 the shoulders and chest of the foetus, which have now 
 
 STANDING POSITION OF COW, IN THE ACT OF PAR- 
 TURITION. 
 
 arrived at the inlet of the pelvis, and as they form the 
 deepest and most difficult part of the young creature's 
 body, the contractions for its expulsion, though most pow- 
 erful and continuous, only impel it slowly towards the 
 outlet, on arriving at which a more energetic and pain- 
 ful effort than all others pushes it through. The act may 
 now be said to have terminated; as to expel the croup re- 
 quires only a few comparatively weak throes, and the 
 weight of the anterior part of the body of the foetus, 
 hanging beyond the vulva, greatly aids them. It is rare, 
 indeed, that the croup offers a serious obstacle to expul- 
 sion. 
 
1^4 
 
 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 After the young animal is expelled, the navel cord is 
 torn, and the waters remaining in the womb escape, ac- 
 companied or followed by a little blood, resulting from 
 the sudden separation of the after-birth. 
 
 THE POSITION assumed by the animals during par- 
 turition is somewhat variable. The larger animals which 
 usually only bring forth one at a birth, such as the Mare. 
 Cow and Sheep, generally do so standing; the young 
 creature being sustained by the navel cord when it has 
 cleared the vulva, glides gently on the half-flexed hocks 
 of the parent, and so reaches the ground without injury 
 
 Fig. 20. 
 
 RECUMBENT POSITION OF MARE IN THE ACT OF 
 
 PARTURITION. 
 
 (Fig. 19). The standing position, however, is not con- 
 stant with these animals; and frequently they bring forth 
 in a reclining position (Fig. 20) , maintained from the very 
 commencement of the act, and only rising when birth is 
 completed. It is rare, indeed, that these animals lie 
 full length on one side of the body during parturition, 
 and when it does occur it nearly always indicates a long, 
 difficult, and exhausting labour. 
 
 Multiparous animals — as the Bitch, Cat and Sow, — 
 always assume the recumbent position, and lie reclining 
 on one side, with the body disposed in a semi-circular 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 136 
 
 fashion, the head towards the tail. For in this position, 
 as each foetus issues from the vuvla it is within reach of 
 the mother's mouth; so it can remove the membranes 
 from the foetus, divide the navel cord, clean it with its 
 tongue, put it in a proper position, and even direct its 
 head towards the teat, in order to soothe it while another 
 is born. With the Sow, the young creature is expelled 
 with such force from the vulva that it often turns a somer- 
 sault. It may also be observed that, with the small mul- 
 tiparous animals the "water-bag" usually only appears 
 with the first of the litter, the other being preceded or 
 followed by the ruptured membranes. 
 
 The total DURATION OF DELIVERY is extremely 
 variable, not only on the different species, but even in 
 the same animal at different births. With the Mare it is 
 usually brief, and is generally accomplished in about ten 
 minutes, sometimes in five minutes, though it may extend 
 to a quarter or half hour, rarely more. This rapidity 
 appears to be due to the fact that the after-birth is de- 
 tached from the womb during the early pains, and con- 
 sequently the foetus cannot live long after this occurs — 
 three hours being supposed to be the limit. The duration 
 of delivery in the Cow is, on the average, one to two 
 hours; though it may be only a few minutes to half an 
 hour, or to be extended without injury to the calf, to one 
 or two days. With the Sheep the period is very brief, 
 being about fifteen minutes. If there are several Lambs, 
 there is usually an interval of fifteen minutes to two hours 
 between them. With muciparous animals — Sow, Bitch 
 and Cat — there is ordinarily a period of ten or fifteen min- 
 utes, and sometimes half an hour, an hour, or even more, 
 between each birth. Frequently the Sow will bring forth 
 ten young ones within the course of an hour. 
 
 With those animals which are delivered in the stand- 
 ing position, the navel cord is torn when the young crea- 
 ture reaches the ground, and usually close to the belly. 
 If the mother is recumbent when the off-spring is bora, 
 
186 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 the cord is torn as she gets up, which is usually immedi- 
 ately after parturition. Sometimes, however, the cord 
 is sufficiently strong and elastic to resist spontaneous rup- 
 ture, and the young creature is born with the membranes 
 attached to it by this means of bond of union. The mother 
 then, by a remarkable instinct, in cleansing the young 
 creature with her tongue, gnaws through the cord and 
 sets free her progeny. The Mare and Cow have been 
 known to do this at times; otherwise it is usual w^th the 
 earnivora. But it sometimes happens that it is neces- 
 sary for the attendant to divide the cord; this division 
 should be made at a short distance from the navel, by 
 scraping or cutting direct through the navel cord. Usu- 
 ally there is nothing to be feared from bledeing; but 
 should this take place, for treatment see (Bleeding from 
 the Navel). 
 
 FOURTH STAGE OF NATURAL LABOR: EX- 
 PULSION OF THE MEMBRANES.— The expulsion of 
 the foetal membranes, or "after-birth," may occur at 
 birth, immediately after birth, or be delayed for a vari- 
 able period. Immediately after the foetus is expelled, 
 the womb contracts and retracts energetically on itself; 
 and its internal capacity rapidly diminishes; consequent- 
 ly the after-birth is ultimately separated from the wall of 
 the womb. The same contractions which loosened it also 
 forces it through the mouth of the womb into the vagina; 
 and the muscles again being stimulated by its presence 
 here, as they were by the head of the foetus, add their 
 powerful contractions; so that these new pains, aided by 
 the appended navel cord, soon bring the whole mass away. 
 
 With the Mare, owing to the slight adherence of the 
 after-birth, the separation of the membranes take place 
 rapidly; and if the Foal is not born in the intact envelops, 
 generally only a few minutes elapse before the after-birth 
 is detached. Retention of the after-birth is exceedingly 
 rare in the Mare, though it is very dangerous; as in at- 
 tempting to remove it there is great risk of haemorrhage. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 127 
 
 With the Cow, the adhesion between the womb and foetal 
 membranes is very intimate. The calf is never bom in 
 its intact envelops, and the after-birth is only slowly and 
 tardily expelled — two, four, or more hours, or even days 
 being required; and frequently when retention of the 
 after-birth occurs in the Cow, it will be found necessary 
 to remove it artificially. Muciparous animals get rid of 
 the membranes as they expel the foetuses, the birth of the 
 first followed in a very short time by its membranes ; after 
 which comes the second foetus, then its membranes, and 
 so on; so that only those of the last foetus may be re- 
 tained — an accident which sometimes occurs. 
 
 When the young creature is born in its intact envelops, 
 the mother, if at large, frees it from them by gnawing 
 them through; it is seldom that the progeny releases it- 
 self by its own efforts. If the mother should chance to be 
 tied up, as in a stall, assistance may be required to cut 
 the navel cord and extract the young animal from its 
 imprisoning membranes, else it may suffocate. (See At- 
 tention to the Off-spring When Delivery Has Taken 
 Place.) 
 
 NECESSARY AID IX NORMAL PARTURITION, 
 OR NATURAL LABOUR.— Although as a rule, partur- 
 ition is generally effected in animals without the inter- 
 vention of man, yet from the nature of this act and the 
 unfavorable consequences which are sometimes noted, 
 certain attentions and precautions should be observed. 
 These attentions and precautions should be entrusted 
 to a competent person; as it is seldom that the Veterin- 
 ary Obstetrist is called in unless something serious 
 has occurred. The mother, as well as the off-spring, 
 require watching, and more or less nursing. There- 
 fore the owner of, or attendant on, an animal which is 
 about to bring forth young, should be able to ascertain 
 the position of the foetus, and decide as to whether par- 
 turition may terminate in a natural manner, or if the ex- 
 isting obstacles are easy to overcome. If they are not, he 
 
128 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 certainly should not venture to attempt delivering the 
 animal himself, or to pull about the mother or foetus in 
 those cases which will require the aid of the surgeon's 
 knife to a great and dangerous extent; as this may only 
 tend to aggravate the trouble, and render relief more 
 difficult. The Veterinary Obstetrist should be sent for, 
 as his knowledge and practiced manipulative and surgical 
 aid will, in the majority of cases, if his assistance is ob- 
 tained in due time, bring the most complicated labour 
 to a prompt and happy termination — preserving the 
 mother, and often the progeny. 
 
 ATTENTION TO THE MOTHER DURING THE 
 FIRST TWO STAGES OF NATURAL LABOUR.— 
 When animals are about to deliver their young, they 
 should have suitable places provided for them. As the 
 act of delivery is performed with a certain amount of 
 pain and uneasiness, the Cow and Mare should be left 
 untied, and provided with a large, comfortable box stall, 
 containing a sufficient amount of bedding to prevent slip- 
 ping and injuries; or if in proper season, they will do 
 better if placed alone in a pasture field. The Sow should 
 have a separate sty, and even the Sheep may need a 
 separate allotment. If animals are kept in stables, the 
 temperature should be comfortable, and the ventilation 
 good. 
 
 When normal parturition commences, it is rare, in- 
 deed, that anything requires to be done during the first 
 two stages of labor. Therefore the animal should be al- 
 lowed perfect quietude; and if the light in the stable is 
 too bright, it may be partially excluded. A trustworthy 
 person should remain with the animal, in order to avert 
 accidents; but he should keep himself out of sight, and 
 meddle with the animal as little as possible. In the case 
 of the Mare it has been recommended to empty the rec- 
 tum either with the oiled hand or by means of raw lin- 
 seed oil injections, if the dung is hard, in order to avert 
 rupture of the intestines or bowels. The labour pains 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 139 
 
 should be normal, and the act should neither be hurried 
 nor abrupt, nor yet too slow; and the mother should not 
 exhibit any constitutional weakness or physical debility. 
 During the second or third stage of labour an examina- 
 tion should be made (to make successful examinations, 
 see Sensible Signs of Pregnancy, and How to Make Suc- 
 cessful Examinations in Difficult Parturition), to see if 
 the little animal is started right— that is with the two 
 front feet first, the head resting upon and between the 
 legs, the upper part of the head and backbone resting 
 against the mother's backbone (Fig. 17); or if the hind 
 feet start first (Fig. 18), it will be delivered in that posi- 
 tion; but see that its backbone rests against the mother's 
 backbone. If the act of parturition is not sufficiently 
 advanced, and the soft parts through which the foetus 
 has to pass are not enough dilated, time ought to be 
 allowed for this to take place, unless something irregular 
 or abnormal occurs. As a rule, there should be no hurry 
 to interfere with the progress of the case; as a somewhat 
 long period is often required for preparation; and if 
 this is accelerated, accidents are more likely to occur than 
 if the labour had been long and protracted. Therefore, 
 if the foetus lies in either of the aforesaid positions, do 
 not meddle too much, but allow some time to elapse be- 
 fore aid is rendered, except it be a Mare, then do not delay 
 too long, for if the Colt is not delivered voluntarily within 
 an hour from the time of commencement of the first ex- 
 pulsive efforts, aid should be rendered immediately or 
 the little animal may be lost. 
 
 The irregularities during the first and second stage of 
 Natural Labour, are few in number; the principal being 
 Hurried (Tumultuous) Labour, and Protracted Labour. 
 HURRIED (TUMULTUOUS) LABOUR DURING 
 FIRST AND SECOND STAGE OF NORMAL PAR- 
 TURITION. — In this kind of labour the act of parturition 
 is irregular and precipitate: and though the pains are ex- 
 cessive and frequent; yet no progress appears to be made, 
 
130 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 the parts not being prepared, while the neck of the womb 
 is often in a state of spasmodic contraction, rigid and, 
 painful. This condition is most frequently observed in 
 young, well-fed, vigorous, irritable animals, and especially 
 when bringing forth the first offspring, they become excited 
 and troubled at the first pains, and give themselves up to 
 violent expulsive efforts that hinder the natural cotirse of 
 partur'tion. Usually in such cases, the mouth of the 
 ?\omb has not dilated sufficiently to allow the foetus to 
 start, or the oiher surrounding tissues have not sufficient- 
 ly relaxed. 
 
 TREATMENT OF HURRIED. OR TUMULTUOUS 
 LABOUR. — In the majority of cases, amendment is en- 
 sured by diverting the animal's attention, walking it about 
 for a short time, whisking the belly gently, and keeping it 
 in a quiet, dark place. If, however, the pains are violent, 
 and the agitation great and persistent, give to the Mare 
 and Cow half ounce doses of chloral hydrate and repeat 
 the dose in hab an hour i^ necessary. The chloral hydrate 
 may be given in a dratight, or as rectal injection — the in- 
 jection is generally preferable. Blankets wrung from hot 
 ivater should be applied to the loins and belly. Frequently 
 good results are obtained by injecting tepid water into 
 the vagina. If the mouth and neck of the womb arc in 
 a state of contraction, by placing a little extract of bella- 
 donna — about one drachm — on these parts will cause 
 them to open rapidly. With small animals, a few drops 
 of laudanum, either in draught or rectal injection, is usu- 
 ally sufficient. Quiet, soothing, and simple treatment 
 will generally bring about a normal state of affairs; the 
 agitation and irregular straining subside, and easy deliv- 
 erv will occur in six, twelve, or twenty-four hours. 
 
 PROTRACTED LABOUR DURING THE FIRST 
 TWO STAGES OF NORMAL PARTURITION.— This 
 is due solely to th^ inability of the womb to expel its con- 
 tents. This most frequently occurs when the membranes 
 have ruptured, the waters have entirely escaped, and the 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 131 
 
 womb is in a state of general contraction, making no effort 
 to expel the foetus. This usually happens when the foe- 
 tus is dead. Protracted Labour may also be due to con- 
 stitutional -weakness. It is observed in emaciated, puny, 
 and frequently old animals, which are debilitated from 
 lack of sufficient good food, prolonged secretion of milk, 
 overwork, or worn by chronic wasting diseases. 
 
 SYMPTOMS.— In the Mare and Cow the breathing is 
 comparatively shallow and repeated; feeble and unfre- 
 quent straining, weak pulse, restlessness and indications 
 of suffering, extremely slow progress in birth — parturi- 
 tion in the Cow being extended to twenty-four, and even 
 forty-eight hours, though the foetus may be in a good po- 
 sition, of ordinary size, and the passage clear. If the hand 
 is introduced into the vagina, it will be discovered that 
 the contractions of the womb are weak. There is no ur- 
 gent danger to the mother in this condition; though the 
 life of the foetus is often imperilled. 
 
 TREATMENT. — An examination is necessary, in or- 
 der to ascertain whether there is any obstacle to parturi- 
 tion. Should such not be found, then the mouth of the 
 womb should be gently and carefully dilated with the 
 fingers, until it is wide enough for the hand to pass into 
 the womb. Moderate and judicious drawing on the parts 
 of the foetus which present, when the mother makes ex- 
 pulsive efforts, will bring the foetus into the pelvic cavity 
 and through the vulva. 
 
 DEATH OF THE FOETUS.— When parturition is 
 retarded it is often a question ^vhether the foetus is dead 
 or alive, and to answer it correctly is sometimes difficult. 
 Foul odors from the waters which escape has been held 
 to prove the death of the foetus; although it is a good sign, 
 yet it is not infallible. On introducing the hand into the 
 womb, if decomposition is well advanced, the hair can 
 easily be removed from the foetus; then there can be no 
 doubt as to its being dead. Should the presentation be 
 that of the head, then passing the fingers into its mouth 
 
132 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 and titilating the tongue of the foetus will prove a test of 
 its vitality, as the jaws and tongue are almost certain to 
 move if it lives; though the absence of movement will 
 not be decisive. If the navel cord can be reached and 
 seized between the thumb and index finger, slight com- 
 pression will discover whether or not the arteries pulsate. 
 The absence of pulsation affords a strong, but not in every 
 case, a sure, presumption that the foetus is dead. For 
 other indications, as well as proper examinations (see 
 Sensible Signs of Pregnane}^ also How to Make Success- 
 ful Examinations in Difficult Parturition). 
 
 CAUSES OF DEATH OF FOETUS.— They are not 
 numerous, and may be enumerated as follows: 1. KNOTS 
 on the navel cord; 2. TWISTS of the cord around the 
 body, neck, or limbs of the foetus, which may be suffi- 
 ciently tight to interrupt the circulation in the navel ves- 
 sels; 8. PROLONGED COMPRESSION OF THE NAV- 
 EL CORD, due to the foetus remaining a long time in 
 the pasasge of the womb and vagina, whereby the cir- 
 culation of the blood is checked; 4. PREMATURE RUP- 
 TURE OF THE MEMBRANES and escape of the whole 
 of "the waters," which, if parturition is not soon com- 
 pleted, exposes the foetus to great danger from immedi- 
 ate pressure of the womb upon it; 5. DISUNION, more 
 or less complete and extensive, between the womb and 
 the foetal membranes, through which the foetus receives 
 its nourishment and supply of air; when this vital con- 
 nection between the mother and foetus is interrupted, if 
 the foetus is not quickly expelled it must die from suffo- 
 cation. Owing to the difference in the after-birth of the 
 various animals, this foetal suffocation is not equally 
 common in all. Many veterinarians, and among them 
 Saint-Cyr, have been struck by the fact, that no matter 
 how soon they were called into a case of difficult parturi- 
 tion in the Mare, nor how trifling the difficulty might be, 
 and rapid the delivery, the living Foal was never pro- 
 duced; while in cases in Cows, though parturition was 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 133 
 
 decidedly more difficult, and requiring manipulation for 
 more than an hour, living calves were the rule. So com- 
 mon is this experience, that a very distinguished French 
 veterinary obstetrist — Donnarieix— has laid it down as 
 a maxim that the Foal does not live more than three 
 hours, often less, in the womb after the firsi expulsive, 
 efforts or straining; Vv'hile the Cal^ in the same condition- 
 can live much longer, sometimes for several days, after 
 the first expulsive efforts oi labour. The foetus may also 
 perish when force is used in its delivery. 
 
 ATTEXTIOX TO THE MOTHER DURING THE 
 THIRD STAGE OF NATURAL LABOUR.— This is the 
 expulsive stage, and during this period there are two im- 
 portant matters to be observed: 1. Rupture of the water 
 bag; 2. When to use traction on the foetus. 
 
 1. RUPTURE OF THE WATER-BAG.— This should 
 not be artificially ruptured too early; and in the Cow it 
 should never, as a rule, be opened artificially, as it is al- 
 wa5-s spontaneously ruptured at the proper time, and not 
 infrequently sooner than it should be. With the Mare, 
 however, matters are different. In this animal the foetal 
 membranes are thick, firm, and feebly adherent to the 
 womb; so that the Foal is sometimes bom completely en- 
 veloped in them. Therefore, in the Mare it is well to rup- 
 ture the water-bag when it appears as a large tumor be- 
 yond the vulva; until this happens nothing should be 
 done, unless the mouth of the womb is completely dilated, 
 and the head and feet of the foetus are well in it. The 
 membranes may be torn by the fingers, or cut by scissors 
 or knife, care being taken not to injure the Foal. As has 
 been said, when the water-bag is ruptured too early, the 
 womb contracts on the foetus; this is opposed to birth. 
 Besides, the genital passage becomes dry and adherent, 
 and this is an additional obstacle, which can only be rem- 
 edied by injecting into the vagina flaxseed tea, milk, 
 glycerine and water, oil, or even simple tepid water. 
 
134 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 2. TRACTION OF, OR DRAWING, ON THE FOE- 
 TUS. — When the water-bag is once ruptured, the natural 
 expulsion of the foetus should be waited for. In some in- 
 stances, however, this expulsion may be conveniently 
 assisted by judicious drawing on the foetus. (See Trac- 
 tion.) 
 
 If the foetus presents the fore feet and head (Fig. 17), 
 as soon as these parts have cleared the womb, take hold 
 of the pastern of each fore leg and draw steadily during 
 each labour pain of the mother. This traction or drawing 
 should be towards the hocks of the mother, so as to allow 
 the body of the foetus to follow the curve of the pelvis; 
 drawing a little to the right and left, will also aid in pass- 
 ing the shoulders and afterwards the haunches. When the 
 head and neck are clear of the vulva, they should be sup- 
 ported. 
 
 If the foetus presents posteriorly, that is, when the 
 hind feet come first (Fig. 18). This position will be recog- 
 nized by the pasterns bending upwards instead of down- 
 wards, also by the feel of the hocks, which is vastly differ- 
 ent from the knee. In this position, the two limbs are to 
 be seized at the pastern, and drawing exercised at first 
 slightly upwards, in order to carry the stifles over the brim 
 of the pelvis, which sometimes checks them; then down- 
 wards, to bring the croup below the sacrum; and lastly, 
 an alternate movement from right to left and left to right, 
 to free the haunches, one after the other. Immediately 
 after delivery, seize the young animal by the hind legs 
 and raise it clear from the ground, with the head hanging 
 downwards, so that any fluids remaining in the nostrils 
 and wind pipe, will escape. Many Foals and Calves are 
 lost annually through nelgect to empty the fluids from the 
 windpipe; the lungs are too weak to force air in through 
 these fluids. When the foetus is born head first, these 
 fluids escape, as the head hangs down during delivery. 
 It is well to see that the tail of the foetus is in the right 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. . 1^ 
 
 direction before traction has been practiced to any great 
 extent. 
 
 TRACTION OF THE FOETUSES IN TWIN PREG- 
 NANCY. — Usually twin pregnancy is not recognized un- 
 til birth takes place. The escape of only a small quantity 
 of "the waters," and the small size of the creature first 
 delivered, when compared with the size of the mother's 
 abdomen, are indications that more young will be pro- 
 duced. In case there is another foetus, soon another 
 water-bag appears, and another foetus presents at the 
 vulva. Frequently when the position of the two foetuses 
 is natural, they are brought forth one after the other suc- 
 cessively, and without any assistance being required. 
 This is the case more particularly with the Sheep and 
 Goat. But sometimes, and especially with the Mare and 
 Cow, *he two foetuses present themselves simultaneously 
 at the pelvic inlet, and neither can pass through. In such 
 a case it is necessary to push back the one least favorably 
 presenting, and to keep it away until the fore limbs of the 
 other are in the passage. If the two foetuses chance to 
 be in an unfavorable position, the fore legs of one should 
 be sought for (recognized by the knees, and to a certain 
 extent by the pasterns), or the hind-limbs (recognized 
 by the pasterns and hocks), if they are convenient 
 for the purpose, then traction or drawing should be ex- 
 ercised, as in the case of a single foetus, and according to 
 the directions given above, taking care to keep the other 
 foetus out of the way. Should it not be possible to ex- 
 tract this foetus, it may be that certain parts of the other 
 stop its progress, or that the expulsive forces are expend- 
 ed on the other foetus, although it is farther from the 
 mouth of the womb. It is then necessary to push back 
 and turn the former foetus, and endeavor to extract it by 
 the extremity opposite to that which was first tried. 
 But if the fore limbs and head have been got into the 
 passage, the position need not be changed, the procedure 
 
136 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 then being the same as for a foetus disproportionately 
 large. 
 
 CAUTION TO THE OPERATOR.— In exploring or 
 examining the genital canals of the female, gentleness and 
 tact should be scrupulously observed, and the hand and 
 arm ought to be well oiled with sweet oil or clean lard; the 
 nails of the fingers being cut at least moderately short. 
 Also read examinations under Sensible Signs of Pregnan- 
 cy, and How to Make Successful Examinations in Diffi- 
 cult Parturition. The time chosen for exploration should 
 be the interval between the labour pains, and care must be 
 taken not to rupture the water-bag, if it has not been 
 previously ruptured. The exanimation may be made 
 while the animal is standing or lying, though the standing 
 position is generally preferable. 
 
 It must not be forgotten that, when traction or draw- 
 ing is required, this should be slow and moderate, and only 
 applied when the animal itself makes expulsive efforts. 
 Violent and sudden drawing is to be avoided, as it may 
 inflict serious injury, while doing little, if anything, in 
 aiding delivery; and even should this be effected, the con- 
 tractile powers of the womb will be deranged, when the 
 contents of that organ are suddenly and forcibly removed. 
 The simplest and safest traction is that made by the hands 
 of the operator — for both hands may, in some cases, be 
 introduced into the vagina. Should he not have sufficient 
 strength or purchase, an assistant may clasp him around 
 the chest and pull at and with him — gradually and stead- 
 ily during the labour pains. 
 
 ATTENTION TO THE OFF-SPRING IMMEDI- 
 ATELY AFTER NATURAL DELIVERY HAS TAK- 
 EN PLACE. — No special rules can be laid down for the 
 management of new-born animals, as this may vary more 
 or less, according to the species. However, there are 
 some general rules which may be well to observe. 
 
 With regard to the Foal or other creature which may 
 be bom in the foetal membranes, it is evident that it must 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. IST 
 
 be freed from them immediately, or it will perish from 
 suffocation. If the navel cord is not torn, it may be 
 double-tied about two inches from the navel, and then 
 divided between the tie places, either with a clean 
 knife or scissors. Care must be exercised in not bruising 
 or injuring the navel, or allowing this part to become ir- 
 ritated either by the litter, manure, or urine, as serious 
 complications, such as inflammation of the navel and 
 cord may result. (See inflammation of the Navel Cord.) 
 
 Immediately after delivery, remove the mucus, which 
 sometimes clogs the mouth and nostrils of the new-born 
 (this process is explained under Suffocation, Asphyxia of 
 the New-Born, which see), and hinders its respiration or 
 breathing. As soon as this has been accomplished, the 
 young animal should be examined to ascertain whether 
 it be strong or weak, whether all the natural apertures 
 exist — such as the eyes, mouth, anus, vulva, urethra — 
 and if any of them chance to be absent, to make artifi- 
 cial ones soon, if possible, by a kind of puncture, enlarg- 
 ing afterwards by the knife and sound, and preventing 
 union by pledgets of lint, etc. 
 
 SUSPENDED ANIMATION, SUSPENDED LIFE 
 OF THE NEW-BORN. — Whenever the connection with 
 the mother is interrupted, the young creature must 
 breathe, and respiration must now be carried on by the 
 lungs, through the nostrils. The establishment of this 
 is purely a reflex act. The foetus hitherto maintained 
 at a certain and almost uniform degree of warmth in its 
 liquid bed in the womb, is suddenly ushered into the cold 
 and dry air of the outer world; and this transition oper- 
 ates chiefly on the skin, producing a peculiar impression 
 — such as we ourselves experience in being suddenly im- 
 mersed in cold water; this impression is at once trans- 
 mitted to the brain and spinal center, whence the reflex 
 influence of the spinal cord is called into play, and the re- 
 spiratory muscles are excited to movement by the nerves. 
 
138 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 All these muscles contract simultaneously, the chest is 
 dilated, and the air rushes into the air-passages and lungs, 
 distending the air-cells in the lungs, and instituting the 
 process of respiration. This reflex act may also be pro- 
 duced by pressure on the navel cord. It sometimes hap- 
 pens that the young creature is in a state of unconscious- 
 ness when born, or very soon after, and gives no sign of 
 life. Sometimes this unconscious state is from weakness, 
 in which the animal is cold and does not breathe, the mu- 
 cous membranes being pale and the body flaccid; or if it 
 is the result of an over-abundance of blood, then the mu- 
 cous membranes are of a livid blue tint, the lips and tongue 
 swollen, and the eyes red. 
 
 TREATMENT.— If the young animal is in a state of 
 unconsciousness when born, attempts should be made to 
 revive it by pouring cold water on the head, beating the 
 body with a cloth dipped in cold water — particularly 
 shotild this beating be exercised about the face and chest. 
 Dry rubbing the limbs, tickling the nostrils with a feather, 
 puffing tobacco-smoke into the nostrils, imitating the 
 respiratory movements, and inflating the lungs by means 
 of a pair of bellows, acting through the nostrils. So long 
 as the heart pulsates there is a probability of restoration 
 to hfe. 
 
 If unconsciousness is the result of an over-abundance 
 of blood, allowing a little blood, from eight to fourteen 
 ounces from the Foal or Calf, to flow from the navel cord, 
 and even cutting this or fomenting it with hot water to 
 induce bleeding, is very useful, in conjunction with cold 
 water to the head and cold water injections into the rec- 
 tum. But as a rule, death is always imminent in these 
 cases. 
 
 GENERAL CARE OF THE YOUNG AFTER DE- 
 LIVERY HAS TAKEN PLACE.— With the larger ani- 
 mals, the newly-born creature should be placed before the 
 mother if it is not near her; and it generally follows that 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 139 
 
 she instinctly licks off the viscid matter which covers its 
 skin ; and in doing this the circulation of the skin is excited, 
 and, by sympathy, the other organs of the young animal. 
 Consequently, it becomes revived, soon endeavors to get 
 up, and though it may fall a few times, yet it generally 
 quickly succeeds in maintaining itself on its limbs, and 
 instinctively seeks the maternal teat. There are excep- 
 tional cases, where the mother does not attempt to cleanse 
 her young; this is most frequently observed when bringing 
 forth the first progeny, and when the labour has been long 
 and painful. But it will generally be found that sprinkling 
 the young animal with a little flour, bran, or salt will excite 
 the attention of the mother and induce the cleaning pro- 
 cess. Should it not do so, then the creature must be well 
 dried and rubbed with a sponge, hay-wisp, or a cloth, and 
 kept warm. Some mothers become quite savage after 
 parturition, and will not allow their progeny to come near 
 them, and will even kill their young; though this most 
 frequently happens when they are tormented by specta- 
 tors. When this occurs, it is well to leave the mother and 
 her young quietly together for some time. 
 
 As the Foal, Calf, and Lamb always suckle in a stand- 
 ing posture, if they are weak and cannot reach the teat 
 within half an hour or so after birth, it will be found neces- 
 sary to give some assistance in bringing them to their 
 mother, and applying the teat to the mouth of the young 
 animal, at the same time caressing and soothing the parent 
 if disinclined to its young either by temper or by painful- 
 ness of the udder. This coaxing and handling should be 
 performed by some one accustomed to the animal. 
 
 Sometimes from weakness or inexperience of the Foal, 
 and temper of the Mare, the Foal runs the risk of perishing 
 from starvation. In such cases the Mare should be safely- 
 secured, and two persons ought then to push and support 
 the young animal behind by joining a hand of each, while 
 the other hands are employed in directing it towards the 
 teat, which it should be allowed to use for two or three 
 
140 0«ste:trics — Domi:sticatkd Aximals. 
 
 minutes. After one or two attempts of this kind, the Foal 
 begins to find its way to the udder by itself, while the 
 Mare becomes more reconciled to it. In assisting the 
 youngster to nurse, do not place the hand under the breast 
 bone; as it is quite soft and yielding, you may do con- 
 siderable harm, even causing quite a lively Colt to becoma 
 sick and die. Many Colts are lost in this way, the owner 
 considering that he was doing an act of kindness. When 
 it is necessary to hold them up to nurse, catch one arm 
 around the forelegs and breast, and the other arm around 
 its haunches, and you will not injure the Colt in the least. 
 When the Foal exhibits great debility, it may be preferable 
 to feed it for a day or two with the milk of the Mare, which 
 has been drawn by hand. 
 
 With the Cow, these difficulties are seldom present, and 
 if an animal will not take to its Calf, the Calf is generally 
 transferred to another Cow, or it is artificially reared. The 
 Foal may even be reared in this manner, though not so 
 easily as the Calf. The milk of the Cow or Goat will suf- 
 fice, and there is generally little difiticulty in teaching it to 
 drink it, by at first pouring a little into the mouth, while 
 the finger is inserted therein; or a piece of cloth steeped in 
 milk, or even a bottle and tube may be used. Calves in- 
 tended for slaughter may be artificially fed, and especially 
 if nutritive substances are added to the milk; but for those 
 intended to be reared, it is a mistake to separate them 
 from the Cow during the early days of their existence. 
 
 Lambs, when able to stand, and if they do not readily 
 find their way to the teat, should have a little milk from 
 it pressed into their mouth. With twin Lambs, if the Ewe 
 is in good condition, the udder well filled, and the weather 
 and pasture favorable, both may be suckled; in the oppo- 
 site conditions it may be necessary to remove one. If the 
 Ewe does not yield sufficient milk, this may be largely 
 remedied by giving a liberal supply of good food. 
 
 The Bitch, Sow, and Cat, usually lie when suckling 
 their young; so that there is seldom any difficulty with 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 141 
 
 them ; the only care generally required in the case of young 
 Pigs, is to prevent their being crushed by the Sow in the 
 act of lying down or moving. If the litter is large, plenty 
 of good food is necessary. It is also quite necessary that 
 the Sow should be supplied with a pail full of good, warm, 
 nourishing slop as soon as she has delivered her young, as 
 this will appease her ravenous appetite, and will restrain 
 her from devouring her young. Sows usually eat their 
 progeny to satisfy the uncontrollable hunger, which they 
 experience during and immediately after parturition. If 
 the Sow has more young in the litter than teats, unless 
 watched the weakest Pigs will die of starvation. Each 
 young pig has its own particular teat, to which it is per- 
 sistently attached; and if one of the little Pigs becomes 
 sick and unable to suck, the teat it has been nursing will 
 soon cease secreting milk. In general a Sow should not 
 be allowed to rear more than ten in a litter. Cleanliness 
 and warmth are required for young Pigs. 
 
 Puppies and Kittens do not require any special care 
 beyond a warm, clean, and dry abode. 
 
 With all newly-born animals, after the first milk has 
 been taken, there is usually an abundant evacuation of 
 black resinous matter (meconium) from the bowels of the 
 young animal, caused by the "colostrum," as the first milk 
 is usually called; and it is well to notice if this evacuation 
 occurs, as when it does not, serious constipation may ensue. 
 In such cases, a mild laxative — such as castor oil — should 
 be administered to obviate this comdition. (See Con- 
 stipation.) 
 
 Gentle exercise is as necessary for the Foal and Calf, a 
 few days after birth, as it is for their parents. Therefore, 
 a meadow is preferable to a stable for rearing the young. 
 
 It is not rare to find newly-born animals, particularly 
 when parturition had been laborious, injured more or less, 
 from the manipulation of the obstetrist during birth. The 
 most frequent injuries are those due to the use of instru- 
 ments and appliances. The injuries may be dressed with 
 
14$ Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 cold water, to which has been added a very little alcohoL 
 or with arnica. Abrasions which are only superficial, may 
 be treated with the following solution : Water, four ounces ; 
 »lycerine, one ounce; carbolic acid, twenty drops. Sprains 
 should be treated by friction with soap liniment. (See 
 formula for making Soap Liniment under Dropsical Swell- 
 ings of the Legs.) Wounds and lacerations, if very sev^ere, 
 must have appropriate surgical treatment. Other acci- 
 dents and diseases which young animals are subject to, 
 will be alluded to and classified in another part of this 
 book, which has been set apart for the Diseases and Abnor- 
 malities of the Young Animal. 
 
 ATTENTION TO THE MOTHER AFTER NOR- 
 MAL LABOUR. — When labour has been natural, and the 
 animal is vigorous and not much fatigued, simple hygienic 
 measures are all that is necessary. The animal should be 
 kept comfortable, with plenty of pure air, but away from 
 draughts. If it has been perspiring, the body, and parti- 
 cularly the belly, should be well wisped if it is a large 
 animal; indeed, this friction is always to be recommended, 
 as it often allays the restlessness which sometimes persists 
 after delivery; it also regulates the circulation, and ap- 
 pears to hasten the retraction of the womb. It may be 
 necessary to cover the body with a blanket, as the animal 
 is very susceptible to cold at this period. A gallon or so 
 of nourishing, tepid gruel, or even soup, may be given ; after 
 which the diet should be moderate and easily digested. 
 Clean, dry litter should be plentifully supplied, and the 
 animal left alone for half an hour or so, after which it may 
 be visited and offered more gruel. From five to eight, or 
 even fifteen days' rest should be allowed, according to 
 circumstances. 
 
 When parturition has been protracted, and the animal 
 has suffered much, and especially if the generative organs 
 have been bruised and lacerated, nursing should be con- 
 tinued longer, and greater precautions adopted. In these 
 cases every care should be taken to prevent inflammation 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 143 
 
 of the womb; and with this object in view, wash out the 
 vagina by injections of a tepid, three per cent, solution of 
 permanganate of potassium; apply warm cloths to the 
 loins, allow Hght diet, with small doses of sulphate of mag- 
 nesia, and keep clean in a good stable, and in a pure at- 
 mosphere. 
 
 DOSE OF EPSOM SALT (SULPHATE OF MAG- 
 NESL\). — Mare, two ounces; Cow, three ounces; Sheep 
 and Pig, four drachms; Bitch and Cat, one drachm. Mix 
 with water and give as a drench. Repeat the dose nights 
 and mornings unless the movements of the bowels should 
 become too active, at which time discontinue. With the 
 Bitch and Cat, epsom salt sometimes produces vomiting. 
 Therefore, half ounce doses of castor oil is preferable for 
 these animals. 
 
 Sometimes the debility is so extreme that the animal 
 scarcely gives any indication of life. There is then all the 
 more need for careful nursing and quietude. Friction to 
 the surface of the body, clothing, and a good bed are par- 
 ticularly necessary; and as the secretion of milk is usually 
 difficult in these cases, this must be attended to (see Ab- 
 sence of Milk). It must be borne in mind that cold and 
 damp are dangerous immediately, and even for some time 
 after, parturition. Therefore, when turned out to pasture 
 care should be taken to afford protection in bad weather, 
 and damp, cold localities should be avoided. With regard 
 to Ewes and Goats, if the weather is mild and the situa- 
 tion favorable, protection is not required; but if cold 
 winds and wet prevail, then shelter is necessary. When 
 more than one Lamb is Hkely to be produced, the first 
 should be kept warm and receive a little Cow's milk diluted 
 with water, until the Ewe has finished Lambing. The 
 Sow generally suffers from weakness and prostration after 
 parturition, and requires plenty of nourishing and easily 
 digested food. When this is given there is less likelihood 
 of the animal devouring its young, and all the more so if 
 not irritated by the presence of people. 
 
144 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 DISORDERS OF THE MOTHER AFTER DELIVERY. 
 
 Under this subject will be included After-pains, 
 Lochia, Milk-fever. Secreting of Milk (Lactation), and 
 Contraction of the Womb. 
 
 1. AFTER-PAINS.— These are the painful sensa- 
 tions in the abdomen, which persist after the expulsion of 
 the foetus. They are due to the contractions of the womb, 
 that go on for some time, and eventually reduce the womb 
 to its ordinary size. After an easy labour, there are gen- 
 erally fewer or no symptoms of these pains; and when 
 they are present the only indications are whisking of the 
 tail, at which time the walls if the abdomen appear to be 
 harder. They seldom continue longer than twelve or 
 twenty-four hours in these cases, and do not require 
 special treatment. 
 
 In other cases, and particularly when birth has been 
 very sudden and rapid, they persist longer and are more 
 severe. The animal paws and exhibits suffering; it also 
 stretches as if trying to urinate, arches the back, contracts 
 the abdominal muscles, and strains. When these pains 
 are continued beyond twenty-four hours, we may appre- 
 hend the retention of a portion of the foetal membranes 
 (for treatment see Contraction of the Womb; also. Re- 
 tention of the Foetal Envelops). Or it may be due to 
 commencing Inversion of the Womb (which see) . It will 
 be necessary to make an examination in order to discover 
 the cause. 
 
 2. LOCHIA. — The term LOCHIA has been given to 
 the bloody-streaked, purulent mucus, and, finally, mucus 
 evacuations from the vagina occurring after delivery, and 
 generally persisting until the womb has regained its nat- 
 ural size and condition. This discharge accumulates in the 
 womb, and usually only escapes when the animal under- 
 goes exertion, and during urination, and voiding the dung. 
 It sometimes accumulates about the thighs and tail, as 
 well as on the litter; and when the animal has been lying, 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 145 
 
 it forms small pools on the ground. This discharge does 
 not have a bad odor, unless the womb or vagina is the seat 
 of some pathological process, or a portion of the after-birth 
 is retained. The average duration of this discharge is 
 from five days to two weeks; and should this discharge 
 cease before the proper time, it will produce dullness, in- 
 difference of the mother to its progeny and surroundings, 
 poor appetite, suppression of milk, slight fever, with dry 
 erect coat, and constipation. 
 
 TO PREVENT THE UNTIMELY CESSATION 
 OF THE LOCHIA. — Before and after parturition the food 
 should be sound and nutritive, but moderate in quantity, 
 and such as will not predispose to an over-abundance of 
 blood; not to travel or fatigue the animals towards the end 
 of pregnancy; to shelter them at this period; not to hurry 
 labour, and only to render assistance when necessary; and 
 after the delivery to attend to the removal of the after- 
 births which are sometimes retained in the Cow for an ab- 
 normal period, but should not be allowed to remain longer 
 than four or five days. For the removal of the after-birth 
 (see Retention of the Foetal Envelops) . 
 
 :3. MILK-FEVER.— See (Milk-fever or Parturient 
 Apoplexy.) 
 
 4. LACTATION. — Before parturition, preparation for 
 the secretion of milk is already being made in the glands 
 of the udders, and immediately preceding that event a thin 
 serous, or milky fluid can often be expressed from the teat. 
 The first milk or "colostrum," secreted after dehvery is a 
 viscid, dirty-white, or yellowish fluid, sweet, though un- 
 pleasant to the taste, and of a greater density than that of 
 ordinary milk. It is this first milk or "colostrum" which 
 acts as a laxative, and is so necessary to the new-born ani- 
 mal. Towards the fifth or sixth day, or even longer, after 
 parturtion in the Mare and Cow, earlier with some of the 
 other animals, the colostrum disappears, and then we have 
 the ordinary milk. 
 
 In some instances, the secretion of milk may become a 
 
146 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 source of annoyance, or even a danger, when it is too 
 abundant or is not withdrawn when secreted. This hap- 
 pens more particularly when the animal is deprived of its 
 young by death, or for special reason. For other causes, 
 symptoms and treatment (see Inflammation of the Udder 
 — Mammitis). 
 
 5. CONTRACTION OF THE WOMB AFTER 
 NORMAL PARTURITION.— After gestation and partur- 
 ition have been completed, it is necessary that the genital 
 organs should return to their natural size and condition, 
 which is generally the case after labour, when everything 
 occurs regularly. But it sometimes happens that the mus- 
 cular layer of the womb appears to be struck w^th paraly- 
 sis soon, or even immediately after delivery; so that it re- 
 mains distended, and its cavity is so large that the arm 
 can easily be introduced into it. When this condition ex- 
 ists, the mouth of the womb being always more or less 
 open, the air obtains admission, putrefaction or decay com- 
 mences, and grave results may follow. An examination 
 •will discover a variable quantity of bloody, or more or less 
 foul-smelling, matter in the cavity of the womb ; and until 
 this is removed, and the organ made to contract on itself, 
 danger may be apprehended. The treatment should be 
 the same as that in the Retention of the Foetal Envelops 
 (which see). 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 14? 
 
 DIFFICULT LABOR— BIRTH- PARTURITION. 
 
 (Dystokia.) 
 
 HOW TO MAKE SUCCESSFUL EXAMINATIONS 
 IX DIFFICULT PARTURITION FOR THE DIF- 
 FERENT PRESENTATIONS OF THE FOETUS 
 AND OTHER RESISTANCE WHICH MAY BE 
 PRESENT. 
 
 The mode of procedure to be adopted in internal ex- 
 aminations and explorations have already been described^ 
 to a certain extent, under Sensible Signs of Pregnancy, and 
 (Caution to the Operator) under Traction or Drawing of 
 the Foetus, which should be referred to, and carefully read 
 before the reading of this article. It is, because of the 
 importance of these examinations that we again notice 
 them, and will endeavor to explain the most useful points. 
 
 If possible the Mare and Cow should be examined in 
 the standing position, as this is the best. If, however, the 
 animal is lying, and from exhaustion or paralysis it cannot 
 get up, then, of course, the examination must be made in 
 the recumbent position. 
 
 When standing, the animal should be approached 
 gently and coaxingly, and rigorous restraint is seldom nec- 
 essary. With the Mare it generally suffices to have one of 
 the fore-feet held up by an assistant, v\-hile the examina- 
 tion is made; if young and dangerous, it may be necessary 
 to employ a side-line on a hind pastern, or hobbles on both 
 hind pasterns, and perhaps a twitch on the nose. With 
 the Cow, a strong man holding the animal's head is suffi- 
 cient to make it stand quiet. When the animal is in the 
 standing position, the operator must be on his guard 
 against the animal suddenly dropping, which would expose 
 him to serious injury. When the floor inclines from the 
 tail towards the head of the animal it is most favorable 
 for an examination, thereby throwing the intestines for- 
 w^ard, so that they do not press on the womb. 
 
 When the examination is made in the lying position, 
 
148 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 it is much more fatiguing and difficult. In this position it 
 is still more necessary that the croup should be higher than 
 the fore part of the body. Also the spine should be higher 
 than the limbs ; and the more an animal is raised above the 
 ground when it is lying, the easier is the manipulation. 
 The Sheep, Sow, and Goat may be raised on several bun- 
 dles of straw; the Bitch and Cat on a table covered with 
 straw or cloth. 
 
 The shirt-sleeve must be rolled as high as the shoulder; 
 although it is preferable to remove the shirt, and wear only 
 a vest during the examination. The hands and arms 
 should be well smeared with clean oil or grease, to render 
 their introduction into the genital passage more easy, and 
 less irritating to the lining membranes, also to some extent 
 to protect the operator against infection. Rings should 
 not be worn on the fingers. Before commencing the exam- 
 ination, empty the rectum, and, if possible, the bladder. 
 
 Now the fingers should be gathered together in a cone- 
 like form, the hand — which should not be cold — is inserted 
 carefully and steadily into the vagina at a moment when 
 the animal is not straining — the outer margin (little finger) 
 being downwards, thumb upwards, and pushed gently in- 
 wards by a slight rotatory movement; but the advance of 
 the hand must be momentarily checked if the straining is 
 at all severe, or until the animal, if irritable, has become 
 reconciled to it. When once through the vulva, more 
 room is found in the vagina, and the hand and arm can 
 then penetrate with ease as far as the neck of the womb. 
 The operator has first to satisfy himself whether the 
 vagina is empty, or if it already contains some portion of 
 the foetus or its membranes, and what these are; and if 
 any tumors exist, cither within or external to the canal, 
 and if possible their nature. If soft and fluctuating, care- 
 fully push to one side and away from the passage of the 
 foetus. He has also to satisfy himself that the pelvis has 
 the proper dimensions. With this object in view, he 
 closes his hand to try if he can move his shut fist about in 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 U9 
 
 every direction, and with ease. Then stretching out the 
 thumb, he can approximately judge the distance which in- 
 tervenes between opposite points of the pelvic circumfer- 
 ence, and in this way ascertain if a moderate sized foetus 
 could pass through. The following figure and table of 
 measurements will be found convenient: 
 
 Fig. 21. 
 
 DIAMETERS OF THE PELVIS. 
 
 a b, Superior-inferior Diameter; c d. Superior Diameter; e f , 
 Inferior Diameter; e i, f h, Oblique Diameters; J K, Middle 
 Diameter. 
 
 NATURAL MEASUREMENTS OF THE PELVIS. 
 
 Mare 
 
 Ass 
 
 Cow 
 
 Sheep 
 
 Goat 
 
 Pig 
 
 Bitch 
 
 Cat 
 
 MEASURES 
 
 Supero-inferior 
 
 8 to 9 inches 
 8 incties 
 8% inches 
 4*i inches 
 4% inches 
 4 inches 
 2 to 2V8 inches 
 2}^ inches 
 
 Transverse 
 
 714 to 9 inches 
 4V2 inches 
 7 inches 
 3 inches 
 SVo inches 
 3^ inches 
 ly^a to 2 inches 
 ly^o inches 
 
 The above measurements are for medium sized ani- 
 mals, with the exception of the Mare and Bitch, which are 
 given for the large and small sized animals. After noting 
 the above measurements, it can readily be understood that 
 
150 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 the head of the calf, which measures from 7 to 10 in. by 4 
 to 5 in., cannot pass through the pelvis of a Cow which 
 measures four or five inches, and in such cases force should 
 not be attempted, as the foetus cannot be brought through, 
 and must be delivered in pieces. (See Embryotomy.) 
 
 The soft parts will also engage his attention, and he 
 must learn whether the canal of the vagina is dry, or if it 
 contains sufficient mucus to facilitate manipulation or 
 delivery; if it is found to be dry it should at once have oil 
 or flaxseed tea introduced into it. Now the fingers are 
 again brought together, and their extermity pushed as far 
 as the neck of the womb ; here the chief points to be noted 
 are: Whether the neck of the womb still projects into the 
 vagina, or if it is completely effaced; whether the womb 
 has descended on the floor of the abdomen, or is yet in its 
 ordinary position; whether the texture of the neck of the 
 womb is soft, or if hard and in a state of spasm. (For 
 treatment sec, Hurried, Tumultuous Labour in Normal 
 Parturition.) Whether the mouth of the womb is open 
 or closed ; if closed, or not sufficiently open to admit of the 
 iiand, it must be carefully and gently dilated with the 
 fingers until the hand can be passed into the cavity of the 
 womb. Here the operator will meet with the "water- 
 bag," if it is not already ruptured, and the foetus, if he 
 has not already encountered it; at the same time the 
 energy and frequency of the labour pains can be ascer- 
 tained. (For indications and treatment see, Hurried — 
 Tumultuous Labour, and Protracted Labour in Normal 
 Parturition.) If the "water-bag" is ruptured, the hand 
 must be passed into it in order to discover the situation 
 of the foetus — the kind of presentation and position (see 
 Difficult Labour from Malpresentations of the Foetus), 
 the manner in which the limbs are disposed, and any com- 
 plication which may be present. If the "water-bag" is 
 not ruptured, the hand may be passed between it and the 
 womb, the palm being towards the foetus, if it is necessary 
 to explore deeply. When labour is advanced, the pains 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 151 
 
 being well marked, the mouth of the womb dilated, and 
 the water-bag in the vagina, it is usually preferable to 
 rupture the water bag; which is readily accomplished by 
 seizing a portion of it between the thumb and first finger, 
 and pressing the nail of the finger against the thumb. 
 Sometimes the fingers alone are not sufficient, as when the 
 envelops contain but little fluid; then a pair of scissors, a 
 small trocar, or even an ordinary pen, will effect this 
 object. 
 
 In examining for presentation and position, each re- 
 gion of the body of the foetus should be familiar to the 
 touch, as it can be distinguished by its own proper char- 
 acters. If the presentation and position is natural, the 
 hand of the operator will first come in contact with either 
 the fore or hind limbs. To distinguish the fore from the 
 hind limbs, the shape of the joints and their mode of flexion 
 must be taken into account — the fetlock and knee of the 
 fore limbs bend in the same direction, while in the hind 
 limbs the fetlock and hock flex in opposite directions; the 
 knee, in addition, is large, round, and rather flattened in 
 front, while the hock is flattened on each side, and offers 
 the calcis as an unmistakable guide. There is also a dif- 
 ference in the shape of the feet. (See Normal Parturition, 
 also Figs. 17 and 18.) In difficult parturition the foetus 
 may present in a variety of positions, in which hind and 
 fore limbs may offer first, either alone or together (see 
 Figs, under Difficult Parturition from Malpresentations of 
 the Foetus) ; if the presentation is anterior, the head will 
 be met with, and this is distinguished by the presence of 
 the mouth, eyes, and ears; if it is a posterior presentation, 
 then we have the rounded croup, tail, hocks, and external 
 genital organs. In other presentations, the neck is recog- 
 nized by the mane, if it be a Foal, or by its shape, whether 
 Foal or Calf; the shoulders by the acromion processes and 
 withers; the chest by the ribs; and so on. In addition to 
 all this, the operator should judge as to the volume of the 
 foetus and its proportions. 
 
15'^ Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 It cannot be too strongly impressed upon the mind of 
 the reader, the necessity of a thorough knowledge of Nor- 
 mal Parturition, before entering into the subject of Diffi- 
 cult Parturition. And of the necessity of the examination 
 being so complete as to furnish all the requirements of a 
 sound decision; then he must decide on his mode of pro- 
 cedure, in order to bring the young creature into one of the 
 best positions for delivery — either natural or artificial — so 
 that this may be effected with certainty and rapidity. 
 The required assistants should be selected, and to each 
 should be alloted his share in the operation, in which he 
 ought to be instructed briefly and clearly; the instruments, 
 cords, and other apparatus ought next to be placed in 
 readiness; and then the task may be begun. Whatever 
 is necessary to be done should be accomplished without 
 delay, so as to spare the animal pain and exhaustion. 
 
 DIFFICULT PARTURITION FROM MALPRESEN- 
 
 TATIONS OR MALPOSITIONS OF 
 
 THE FOETUS. 
 
 Considering the frequency of Malpresentations or Mal- 
 positions being the cause of difficult parturition or deliv- 
 ery, and their often-times serious character, they deserve 
 the most careful study in order that they may be success- 
 fully overcome. It is very necessary that Normal Partur- 
 ition, also How to Make Successful Examinations in 
 Difficult Parturition be thoroughly and carefully read 
 before reading the following Malpresentations. 
 
 NATURAL— ANTERIOR PRESENTATION. 
 
 In this presentation the extended head and the out- 
 stretched forelimbs are toward the genital canal. As this 
 presentation has been thoroughly explained and illustrated 
 under Normal Parturition, the reader will be referred to 
 that subject. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 153 
 
 DEVIATION OF THE HIND-LIMBS IN THE 
 ANTERIOR PRESENTATION. 
 
 In this presentation the operator will either find the 
 thighs of the foetus turned outward from its flanks, or the 
 hind legs flexed forward, underneath the belly of the foe- 
 tus, and the feet or fetlocks caught under the brim of the 
 pelvis at the inlet, so that delivery by force would cause 
 the hind feet to penetrate into the abdominal cavity of 
 
 Fig. 22. 
 
 DEVIATION OF THE HIND-LIMBS IN THE ANTERIOR 
 PRESENTATION. 
 
 the mother, and this might cause the death of the mother, 
 and off-spring. 
 
 TREATMENT. — In nearly every case the preserva- 
 tion of the mother is the object to be attained. A safe de- 
 livery can be effected only by the proper adjustment of the 
 hind legs. This is all the more difficult, when the foetus 
 is well advanced in the passage and much traction has 
 been employed. If upon examination, the thighs are ex- 
 tended outward from the flanks of the foetus, it should be 
 forced back within the womb and the limbs drawn as 
 closely together as possible, with the hand. If this cannot 
 be done with the hands, take a well greased half-inch rope, 
 
154 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 and fasten it around the body of the foetus with a running 
 noose. (See Fig. 42.) Then the operator should work 
 the rope just bej^ond the rump of the foetus, or midway 
 between the rump and hocks. He must hold it there, 
 while an assistant draws tightly on the rope and forces the 
 thighs together. Then, with the proper traction the de- 
 livery can be completed. (See Traction.) If, however, 
 the foetus cannot be forced back into the womb to adjust 
 the thigh, cut the foetus off close up to the mother (see 
 Embryotomy) ; then force the remainder back within the 
 womb and deliver the hind feet first. If upon examina- 
 tion, the hind feet or fetlocks are found to be caught 
 below the brim of the pelvis at the inlet, pass the hand be- 
 tween the belly of the foetus and the genital canal, until 
 you come in contact with the feet or fetlocks. Then pass 
 the palm of the hand against the feet or fetlocks, and 
 extend it backward and inward as far as the arm will 
 reach, when traction may be applied to the foetus and 
 delivery completed. (See Traction.) 
 
 FORELIMBS CROSSED OVER THE NECK IN 
 ANTERIOR PRESENTATION. 
 
 It is not uncommon to tind Foals and Calves in this 
 position, and unless due assistance is given, the mother 
 usually is more or less lacerated. When the limbs are 
 crossed at the poll, the feet are pushed against the roof of 
 the vagina, causing laceration of that part. Sometimes 
 they are pushed through the roof of the vagina into the 
 rectum, producing rupture of the perineum. This posi- 
 tion, which always retards delivery, is frequently recog- 
 nized before an examination is made. If the fore feet are 
 seen pressing against the roof of the vagina, at the outlet, 
 the probabilities are that both legs are crossed over the 
 neck. If only one foot is seen pressing the roof of the 
 vagina, or if both feet are observed on one side of the head, 
 .the one leg shorter than the other, only one leg is crossed. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 1o» 
 
 With these indications, no time should be lost in making 
 an examination to ascertain the true position. 
 
 TREATMENT. — When only one limb is crossed, re- 
 duction is not difficult. The leg is seized a little above the 
 fetlock, raised, drawn to its proper side, and extended into 
 the genital canal. Delivery may then take place without 
 help, or gentle traction on the head and hmbs may be 
 necessary. 
 
 Fig. 23. 
 
 FORE-LIMBS CROSSED OVER THE NECK IN THE 
 
 ANTERIOR PRESENTATION. 
 
 When both fore-Hmbs are crossed, and the foetus is 
 not too far advanced in the pelvis, well greased half-inch 
 cords should be fixed to each pastern (see Fig. 44), and 
 then force the foetus back into the womb by pressing upon 
 the head. Then the operator should place the feet on 
 their proper sides, if possible. If he cannot do this, bring 
 the ropes to their proper sides, and, while the operator 
 holds the head back firmly, let an assistant pull the rope 
 on one side until that limb is brought into position. Then 
 take hold of the other rope and fetch that into position. 
 Then place the head straight in a line above and between 
 the Hmbs (as in Fig. 17), and delivery will be effected with 
 but little traction. 
 
ise 
 
 Obstetrics — Domesticated A xim als. 
 
 If the foetus is so firmly fixed in the pelvis that it is 
 impossible to force it back into the womb, then the limbs 
 of the foetus must be amputated. (See Embryotomy.) 
 However, this is a very exceptional occurrence. 
 
 FORE-LIMBS FLEXED AT THE KNEES. 
 
 One or both of the fore-limbs may be flexed at the 
 knee. This is a frequent and often troublesome complica- 
 
 Fig. 24. 
 
 FORE-LIMBS FLEXED AT THE KNEES IN THE ANTERIOR 
 PRESENTATION. 
 
 tion. If an examination is made before labour has pro- 
 gressed any length of time, the nose and knees will be felt 
 at the same time. But if labour has progressed any length 
 of time, the operator will first come in contact with the 
 head, for sometimes it is advanced in the passage even as 
 far as the outlet. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 157 
 
 TREATMENT.— If the head has made but little pro- 
 gress, the operator will have but little difficulty. While 
 ascertaining the position of the legs, it is almost always 
 found that one has greater liberty than the other, and, if 
 seized by the fetlock, can be thrown easily into its natural 
 position. Then seize the other leg just below the knee, 
 raise with the lower part of the hand (see Fig. 25), while 
 pressing backward with the upper part of the hand, and 
 that leg can be brought easily into position. Use the right 
 
 EXTENDING THE FORE-LIMBS IN THE ANTERIOR 
 PRESENTATION. 
 
 hand to handle the left foreleg, and the left hand for the 
 right foreleg. 
 
 If the head has been well forced into the passage or 
 presented beyond the outlet, the case will have to be 
 handled differently. First secure the head with a well- 
 greased half-inch rope head collar (see Figs. 43 and 44), 
 then grasp the head, and, during the intervals between the 
 labour pains, force it back into the womb; then grasp the 
 legs separately below the knees and raise them up, pressing 
 backward at the knee and forward further down the leg, 
 and in this way bring them into position one at a time. 
 The operator must take hold of the knee and force it back 
 into the womb, while an assistant draws on the rope. In 
 this manner the leg will be forced upward and outward, 
 into the proper position. Then fetch the other limb up in 
 the same manner. 
 
368 (3bstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 REVERSED POSITION.— If the young animal is 
 lying upon its back, with the legs turned upward within 
 the womb, it will be impossible to extract it in that posi- 
 tion. It must be turned, which is a difficult task. 
 
 In this, as in all manipulations of the mother if in a 
 lying position, the hind parts should be raised higher than 
 the fore quarters. Seize the foetus and fasten a small, 
 jreased rope around each fore fetlock, and another around 
 the jaws. Then, if the foetus is slightly turned to the left, 
 let the operator pass his right hand under the left shoulder. 
 Have the rope attached to the right leg, pass out on the 
 left side of the head. Then, at each labour pain, draw 
 tightly upon the rope, and with the hand under the shoul- 
 der, raise up with a rotary movement. In the course of 
 time the little creature will be completely turned around 
 to the proper position. Proceed in a manner precisely the 
 reverse, if the foetus is turned to the right. When the 
 proper position is gained, delivery will be easy. If the 
 mother can be kept in a standing position, the foetus can 
 be much niore easily handled. 
 
 FORE-LIMBS COMPLETELY RETAINED. 
 
 The complete retention of one or both of the fore-legs 
 of the foetus within the womb, with head presentation, is 
 often met with. With the Mare, the Foal usually dies be- 
 fore delivery is completed. With the Cow, the danger to 
 the Calf is not so great. The Foal or Calf may be born 
 with the fore-limbs retained, and without injury to the 
 mother or off-spring. But this only occurs when the foetus 
 is small, and the maternal pelvis roomy. However, with 
 the multiparous animals this might almost be designated a 
 normal presentation. 
 
 On examination, the operator's hand will first come 
 in contact with the head of the foetus, if both limbs are 
 completely retained (Fig. 27) ; the head may be forced well 
 into the vagina, even to the vulva, at each labour pain, but. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 15^ 
 
 retracting immediately after each pain ceases. Sometimes 
 it is with the greatest difficulty that the fore-legs are 
 reached, owing to the vast dimensions of the womb. When 
 khe fore-limbs of the foetus can be felt, they are usually 
 lying either immediately under its abdomen, or beside the 
 ehest and flanks. In some cases the head is also in an ab- 
 normal position. If only one limb is completely retained,. 
 
 Fig. 26. 
 
 ANTERIOR PRESENTATION: ONE FORE-LIMB COM- 
 PLETELY RETAINED (CALF). 
 
 the other will be in normal position — alongside or under 
 the head. (Fig. 26.) 
 
 TREATMENT.— Reach the limbs or Hmb with the 
 hand. In order to do this it may be necessary to force the 
 head back within the womb. If so, first place a rope 
 around the neck and another around the lower jaw, then 
 force it back within the womb during the intervals between 
 the labour pains, then pass another rope around the fore- 
 
160 
 
 OI5STETRICS — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 arm of the foetus, pushing it well down toward the knee, 
 and use gentle traction until the knee is brought up to the 
 passage. Then fasten the rope to the fetlock, and have an 
 assistant to use traction upward and outward, while the 
 operator grasps the knee and forces it upward and back- 
 ward into the womb. Next bring the other leg into posi- 
 
 Fig. 127. 
 
 ANTERIOR PRESENTATION: BOTH FORE-LIMBS 
 COMPLETELY RETAINED (CALF). 
 
 tion, in the same way. Now having the limbs in the proper 
 position, next find the head and place the hand under the 
 nose and lower jaw, and have an assistant pull upon the 
 rope which was fixed to the jaw, until the head is brought 
 into position ; only moderate traction will be required after 
 this to complete delivery. (See Traction.) 
 
 If the head presents as far as the vulva and the foetus 
 is dead, peel the skin back from the head to the neck, al- 
 lowing the skin to remain intact; then remove the head at 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 161 
 
 the first or second joint of the spine, taking care that the 
 end of the bones are covered with the skin of the head. 
 (This will prevent laceration.) Then fasten a well greased 
 rope to this part, and push back within the womb, the 
 limbs can then be extended, and extraction may be ef- 
 fected. Should delivery still be impossible, then the 
 foetus must be extracted by piecemeal. (See Embry- 
 otomy.) 
 
 In the Sheep, Goat, Sow, Bitch, and Cat, forced ex- 
 traction is usually practiced with success. (See Traction.) 
 
 Fig. 28. 
 
 .ANTERIOR PRESENTATION; DOWNWARD DEVIATION 
 OF THE HEAD (FOAL). 
 
 DOWNWARD DEVIATION OF THE HEAD, 
 ANTERIOR PRESENTATION. 
 
 The deviation may be slight (Fig. 28), or it may be 
 great, which is termed extreme downward deviation of the 
 head (Fig. 29). This presentation occurs most frequently 
 when the foetal membranes are prematurely ruptured. 
 
 On making an examination, the hand of the operator 
 will come in contact first with the feet, and next with the 
 top of the head, which will be recognized by the ears, eyes, 
 nape of the neck, and if a Foal by the forelock and mane. 
 
162 OBSTETRICS — Domesticated x\nimals. 
 
 The upper ridge of the neck is always a sate guide to fol- 
 low in discovering the direction of the head. 
 
 TREATMEN T.— When the deviation is slight 
 the operator should, during the intervals of straining, 
 press backward and upward against the top of the head; 
 then pass the hand down under the nose, seize the lower 
 jaw and raise upward and outward, bringing the head into 
 
 Fig. 20. 
 
 ANTERIOR PRESENTATION: EXTREME DOWNWARD 
 DEVIATION OF THE HEAD (CALF). 
 
 the natural position (See Fig. 17). Now bring the head 
 into the passage and complete delivery in the usual way. 
 However, if necessary, a rope may be applied to the upper 
 jaw as described in Extreme Deviation of the Head, which 
 will soon be alluded to. 
 
 The same procedure is necessary with the Sheep and 
 Scat; while with the Bitch and Cat delivery must be ef- 
 fected by means of forceps. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 163 
 
 In Extreme Deviation, with the head bent under the 
 body, the case is most difficult, and especially when there 
 has been delay or much traction on the foetus in attempt- 
 ing to deliver it. 
 
 The contractions of the closely apphed womb render 
 attempt at delivery almost impossible, by their paralyzing 
 the hand and arm. Large quantities of warm flaxseed tea 
 or warm raw linseed oil must be injected into the vagina. 
 With a crutch or repeller (Figs. 51 and 52) placed at each 
 shoulder of the foetus, push it back within the womb, and 
 passing the running noose (Fig. 42) of a well greased rope 
 around the upper jaw, and while an assistant pulls at this, 
 the operator, by pressing strongly against the top of the 
 head, may bring the nose into the normal position (Fig. 
 17). Should this fail, then the animal should be thrown 
 on its back; the success which has attended this change of 
 attitude in so many recorded instances, should induce the 
 obstetrist to adopt it without much delay. Very often the 
 altered position of the mother at once disengages the head 
 of the foetus; if this does not happen, then undoubtedly 
 embryotomy will be necessary. (See Embryotomy.) In- 
 deed, it should be resorted to early if the foetus is dead, 
 which is nearly always the case in the Mare. Place a rope 
 around the bend in the neck, and amputate the fore-limbs 
 first, as in many cases the removal of one fore-limb will 
 permit delivery; but it is generally necessary to pull on the 
 rope that was placed around the neck. Sometimes it will 
 be found necessary to amputate both fore-limbs, also the 
 head. These operations are thoroughly explained under 
 Embryotomy (which see.) 
 
 LATERAL DEVIATION OF THE HEAD TO THE 
 RIGHT OR LEFT. 
 
 This is a very serious obstacle to birth, and is frequent- 
 ly one of the most difficult to overcome. It is also one of 
 the most frequent deviations. It is due to precipitate or 
 tumultuous labour, •v^'ith the mouth of the womb either im- 
 
164 OnsTr.TRics — Domesticatki) Animals. 
 
 perfectly or not at all dilated. The contractions of the 
 womb propel the head of the foetus towards the pelvis ; but 
 as the mouth of the womb is not open, and as the impelling 
 force continues, the body pushes the nose against the oc- 
 cluded mouth of the womb, and turns it to one side; then 
 the deviation becomes increased with every contraction. 
 Premature escape of the "waters," spasms of the neck of 
 
 Fig. 30. 
 
 ANTERIOR PRESENTATION: LATERAL DEVIATION OF 
 THE HEAD TOWARDS THE SHOULDER (CALF). 
 
 the womb, and torsion of the womb may also cause it. In 
 some instances there can scarcely be any doubt that the 
 deviation has taken place some time before gestation is 
 completed, as in many Foals at birth the neck cannot be 
 straightened, and the head is distorted. 
 
 On examination it is not difficult, as a rule, to distin- 
 guish lateral deviation. Usually both fore-feet are in the 
 genital canal, but birth does not progress. An important 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 1«5 
 
 fact to remember is that one limb — that belonging to the 
 side to which the head is bent — seems to be shorter, or less 
 advanced, than the other. The hand on being passed be- 
 yond these toward the inlet, comes in contact with a con- 
 vex mass, which renders access to the cavity of the womb 
 difficult. Patient exploration discovers this mass to be the 
 bent neck; and if it is a Calf, owing to the shortness of the 
 
 Fig. 31. 
 
 ANTERIOR PRESENTATION: LATERAL DEVIATION OF 
 THE HEAD TOWARDS THE ABDOMEN (CALF). 
 
 neck, the head is soon found, and recognized by the ears, 
 eyes, and often the muffle turned toM'ard the shoulder. 
 With the foal the neck being longer, makes it much more 
 difficult to reach the head. This difficulty is greatly in- 
 creased if the abdomen of the mother is very pendulous. 
 
 TREATMENT.— If the head can be felt by the hand, 
 catch hold of the cheeks, by slipping the fingers into the 
 mouth, and raise the head into position. If it cannot be 
 
166 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animate. 
 
 brought into position in this way, then slip a well greased 
 running noose (Fig. 42) around the lower jaw, secure the 
 fore-limbs with ropes and push the foetus back into the 
 womb. Then have an assistant pull on the rope which is 
 attached to the jaw, while the operator pushes inward on 
 the neck just at the bend. Bring the head into the vaginal 
 passage, draw up the feet and complete delivery. 
 
 In case the feet present and the head cannot be reached 
 by the operator, it will be necessary to fasten small greased 
 •ropes to the fore fetlocks; then return the fore-limbs to the 
 womb, pressing them to the opposite side from that to 
 which the head is bent. Then if the head is turned to the 
 •right, press against the left shoulder; if to the left, press 
 against the right shoulder. With the hand or a crutch, 
 •fasten a rope around the neck, and pass the rope along the 
 neck until as near the head as possible; then twist the rope 
 until it presses deeply into the flesh of the neck, care being 
 taken not to entangle the membranes in the rope. Novr 
 press inward on the shoulder and draw outwards and side- 
 ways on the rope which is around the neck, and the head 
 will be drawn backward toward the natural position. Con- 
 tinue this until the head is reached, when a rope should 
 be fastened to the head or lower jaw, after which it can 
 easily be brought into position. Then draw up the feet and 
 complete delivery. 
 
 When it is found impossible, or not advisable, to at- 
 tempt adjustment of the head and neck, then recourse 
 must be that of Embryotomy (which see). 
 
 With the Sheep and Goat, this deviation must be rem- 
 edied by forced extraction with the short blunt hook or 
 finger-hook (Figs. 53 and 54), the fore-limb of the foetus 
 being manipulated so as to push away the unencumbered 
 shoulder into the womb. The smallness of the genital pas- 
 sages in these animals is an obstacle to manipulation, but 
 an intelligent boy with a small hand may be of much ser- 
 vice when acting under the direction of the obstetrist. 
 
 With the Bitch and Sow these deviations are extremely 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 16t 
 
 rare. When they do occur it will be found that the for- 
 ceps^will generally effect forced extraction; or a piece of 
 strong catgut, or brass or copper wire, may be passed 
 around the bend of the neck. Traction on this will either 
 remove the foetus, or by cutting through the neck permit 
 it to be extracted by the forceps. (vSee Forceps.) 
 
 ANTERIOR PRESENTATION: DEVIATION OF THE HEAD 
 UPWARDS AND BACKWARDS. 
 
 DEVIATION OF THE HEAD UPWARD AND J 
 BACKWARD. 
 
 In this position, the head will be found more or less 
 extended along the back, or slightly deviated to one side, 
 with the lower jaw resting against the mother's back. [This 
 position may lead to rupture of the womb and rectum, and 
 the delivery of the foetus by the rectum. 
 
 On exploration, the fore-limbs may be found more or 
 less advanced in the vagina. On deeper exploration, the 
 
168 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 hand meets the chest, while above it is the front part of the 
 neck, with the wind-pipe leading toward the head. 
 
 TREATMENT. — It is necessary to force the foetus 
 back within the womb by pressing the chest downward. 
 Should the head not drop down into the natural position, it 
 will be necessary to seize the head by the mouth or lower 
 jaw and bring toward the mouth of the womb, by carrying 
 it downwards and a little to one side if necessary, by a 
 slightly screwing motion. If the head cannot be brought 
 forward with the hand, place a small rope around the lower 
 jaw and have an assistant pull, while the operator guides 
 the head with his hand until it is brought into the natural 
 passage, when delivery will be completed easily. This is 
 »ot a difficult position and can be rectified with ease and 
 safety. Embryotomy is rarely necessary. 
 
 In the smaller animals — at least in the Bitch — delivery 
 has been effected without bringing the foetus to the natural 
 position. 
 
 HEAD RETAINED, AND WITH IT ONE OR BOTH 
 OF THE FORELIMBS. 
 
 These complicated cases are seldom met with. But 
 when they do occur, it is usually preferable to adjust the 
 limbs first, then the head; but it sometimes happens that it 
 is more advantageous to begin with the head — for instance 
 when it is much forward in the womb. But it is really of 
 no great moment which part is first dealt with, so long as 
 the precaution is taken first to cord those which are de- 
 viated. Then the procedure will be the same as described 
 «nder the deviation of that part. 
 
 NORMAL POSTERIOR PRESENTATION 
 
 In this position the hind-limbs are fully extended 
 backwards, and are the first to enter the genital canal. 
 This presentation has been explained and illustrated 
 under Normal Parturition (which see.) 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 16!^ 
 
 HOCK PRESENTATION. 
 This presentation usually results when there is a pos- 
 terior presentation, and the womb contractions force the 
 foetus towards the neck of the womb, before the hind- 
 limbs are completely extended. (Fig. 33.) As labour^ad- 
 vances the croup has a tendancy to descend, and with the 
 points of the hocks, to advance through the mouth of the 
 
 Fig. 33. 
 POSTERIOR PRESENTATION: HOCK (CALF). 
 
 womb. The double legs and croup, jammed in the inlet. 
 form far too large a mass to advance further. Labour is, 
 therefore, suspended, and the animal becomes exhausted 
 with futile straining. 
 
 On making an examination, the point of the hock is 
 always the first part the hand of the operator encounters; 
 but it may be found at various depths. Sometimes the 
 / . ^.:s alone are in the canal, the body of the foetus being 
 still in the womb; while in other cases both the hocks and 
 the croup are wedged in the passage. 
 
 TREATMENT.— With the larger animals at their 
 
170 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 full period of pregnancy, birth cannot take place, as a rule 
 until the malpresentation has been rectified; and to at- 
 tempt delivery before this has been done is to expose the 
 Cow or Mare — particularly the Mare — to great danger. 
 With the Sheep, Goat, Sow, and Bitch, the foetus can be 
 and often is, extracted in this malposition by forced ex- 
 traction. With the Mare and Cow it is necessary to give 
 the hind-limbs a favorable direction, by extending them 
 into the genital canal. In adjusting the hind-limbs, it 
 will be necessary to push the foetus as far as possible into 
 the womb. This can be effected without difficulty — even 
 in the Mare — at the commencement of parturition, when 
 the foetus has not yet entered the pelvic inlet, or, at most, 
 the points of the hocks are only engaged. But when la- 
 bour is more advanced, and the hocks with the croup is 
 wedged in the passage, the difficulty is greatly increased in 
 the Cow. and even in the Mare it may be impossible to 
 push the foetus back into the womb. However, it should 
 always be attempted. This is best accomplished by rais- 
 ing the hind-quarters of the mother as much as possible; 
 then the hand should be applied to the buttock of the 
 young creature, the thumb on one hip, the fingers on the 
 other, and immediately below the tail. If the repeller or 
 crutch (Figs. 51 and 52) is used (and it is very convenient 
 in these cases), it should be placed across the thighs. The 
 foetus should be steadily forced back in the intervals be- 
 tween the labour-pains; this force should be directed 
 slightly upward, so as to raise the croup. At first the re- 
 sistence seems to be insurmountable, but gradually the 
 foetus begins to move, and finally is forced sufficiently into 
 the womb to allow the hind-limbs to be seized; the hand 
 may then fasten a small, greased rope on each pastern (by 
 means of the porte-cord (Fig. 49), if necessary). Next 
 flex one limb as completely as possible, commencing witk 
 the lower leg and lifting it well up against the thigh, then 
 the hock is bent; the limb is now seized at the lower end of 
 the cannon-bone, or even at the fetlock, and is then lifted 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 171 
 
 into the vagina. The same procedure is carried out witk 
 the other leg. With the Foal it sometimes happens that, 
 owing to the length of the limbs, the foot of the foetus 
 jams on the pubis of the mother. In such cases the cord 
 attached to the pastern is most useful, as the operator 
 may allow the foot to pass from his hand, and press the 
 point of the hock towards the womb: while an assistant 
 pulls at the cord at such times, and with the amount of 
 force, as the obstetrist may order. 
 
 It frequently happens that the foetus cannot be forced 
 back into the womb. When this occurs with the Mare, it 
 may be presumed that the foetus no longer lives, or that 
 it will perish before delivery is completed. There can be 
 no objection, then, in resorting to Embryotomy (whick 
 see), so as to relieve the Mare as quickly as possible. 
 
 With the Cow, the Calf is very frequently alive, and 
 an important consideration is how to deliver it in this con- 
 dition. Should it be impossible to force the Calf back int© 
 the womb, forced extraction in this malposition should be 
 attempted (See Traction) ; it has often proved successful, 
 and particularly when only one limb was retained. To ef- 
 fect forced extraction with one limb alone flexed, the leff 
 extended in the vagina should be corded at the pastern, or 
 above the hock if this can be reached. A cord is then to be 
 passed around the bent hock by means of the porte-card 
 (Fig. 49), and traction exercised during the labour-pains. 
 When both legs are flexed at the hocks, a cord must be 
 passed around each, as in Fig. 34. The necessary force caa 
 then be exercised. Should forced extraction not succeed, 
 the limbs may be amputated, as with the Mare. (See Em- 
 bryotomy.) 
 
 In the posterior malpositions, it is well to ascertain 
 the direction of the tail; as it is sometimes thrown back 
 over the croup (as in Fig. 34), and may thus increase the 
 difficulty. It may readily be brought back to its natural 
 position by passing the hand from the root to its extremity 
 and bringing it into the vagina by withdrawing the arm. 
 
172 
 
 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 In some instances it may be necessary to force the foetus 
 into the womb before the tail can be adjusted. 
 
 With the Sheep and Goat the same procedure is ap- 
 plicable, but the Bitch, Sow, and Cat, generally does not 
 experience any difficulty in expelling the foetus when in 
 this position. Therefore they do not require any especial 
 attention. 
 
 pw 
 
 Fig. 34. 
 HOCK PRESENTATION: HOCK CORDED (CALF). 
 
 THIGH AND CROUP PRESENTATION. 
 
 The cause of this malposition is the same as that opera- 
 ting in hock presentation. Authorities are generally unan- 
 imous in asserting that this is one of the most difficult mal- 
 positions the obstetrist can encounter. Very frequently 
 the mother perishes without being delivered; and though 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Aximals. 173 
 
 sometimes a live Calf may be extracted, it is rare that a 
 living Foal is obtained. 
 
 On examination, the tail and buttocks of the foetus 
 are the first parts that the hand encounters; then the croup 
 and haunches, and below, beneath the pubis, are found the 
 hocks; though, when the limbs are fulh- extended under 
 the body, they are beyond reach. 
 
 Fig. 35. 
 THIGH AND CROUP PRESENTATION (CALF). 
 
 ITREATMENT.— The first rational indication is to ex- 
 tend the limbs of the foetus backward. This is often most 
 difficult to fulfill, though it is possible when labour is not 
 too far advanced, and when the foetus can be pushed suf- 
 ficiently from the inlet to allow one Hmb to be seized above 
 the hock, and the thigh and leg flexed as completely as cir- 
 cumstances will permit. Still pushing the foetus off by- 
 means of the repeller (Figs. 51 and 52), the hand is passed 
 
174 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 down to the foot, until the toe and front part rest in the 
 palm of the hand; by adopting this precaution, danger of 
 injury to the womb or vagina is averted. Then the foot is 
 brought into the vagina by flexing all the joints on each 
 other. Again pushing the foetus forward, the same 
 manoeuvre is repeated with the other Umb, if necessary; 
 forced extraction has succeeded with only one leg in the 
 passage, and sometimes with little difficulty. But forced 
 extraction of the foetus, without adjustment of one leg, is 
 very serious, and is most always fatal to the mother, as 
 well as the offspring. 
 
 If the examination is delayed until parturition is some- 
 what advanced, the operator may find the croup well 
 wedged in the pelvic canal and the thighs to have cleared 
 the inlet. When this occurs it is often impossible to force 
 the foetus back within the womb. Throwing the mother 
 on the back or side may effect a change for the better in 
 the position of the foetus; or, if lying, then raise the hind- 
 quarters. Should this fail, there are but two courses open 
 — forced extraction of the foetus in this abnormal position, 
 ©r removing it by Embryotomy. 
 
 Lecoq's method of forced extraction consists in passing 
 the hand, furnished with a rope, between the pelvic wall of 
 the mother and the body of the foetus, as far as the thigh 
 of the foetus; the rope is then pushed beneath the thigh as 
 far as possible and left there, while the hand is passed 
 above — between the leg and body, so as to bring the end of 
 the rope up around the stifle and back through the vagina. 
 In this way the thigh is encircled by a loop, as in Fig. 36. 
 The other thigh should be secured in the same way by an- 
 other rope. The ends of the ropes being joined together 
 •utside, assistants, under the direction of the operator, pull, 
 with the necessary amount of force (See Traction) ; while 
 the hand of the operator assists in the vagina, either in 
 fuiding the foetus, seizing on and puUing at any part that 
 may offer, or smoothing down the folds of the lining mem- 
 brane in the canal, which might otherwise increase the ob-. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 175 
 
 stacle. The foetus has been extracted alive by this pro- 
 cedure, but this is a rare occurrence; and more frequently 
 the foetus, or mother and foetus, perish. Therefore, em- 
 bryotomy is usually resorted to in preference to forced 
 extraction. (See Embryotomy.) 
 
 The Bitch, Sow, and Ewe, may be delivered by the 
 forceps (Fig. 56), small crochet (Figs. 53 and 55), or the 
 tube-noose (Figs. 47-48), which are described under their 
 various headings. 
 
 Fig. 36. 
 
 THIGH AND CROUP PRESENTATION: THIGH CORDED 
 
 (FOAL). 
 
 TRANSVERSE PRESENTATION 
 
 The foetus is in a transverse position, when, upon ex- 
 amination, the hand of the operator first encounters th« 
 shoulders, withers, sides, flanks, haunches, loins, back, 
 breast, belly, or all of the limbs collected together. 
 
 BACK, LOIN AND SHOULDER PRESENTATION. 
 
 The withers are recognized by the prominences which 
 the spinous processes form at this part; the thin, wedge- 
 shaped outline of the part. The region of the loin may be 
 distinguished by the large and almost level surface it offers. 
 
KG 
 
 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 the hollow of the flank leading to the thigh and stifle. The 
 back is discovered by the arches of the ribs springing from 
 each side. After determining which part presents, it is 
 necessary to ascertain the direction in which the head lies, 
 before attempting to rectify the position. 
 
 TREATMENT.— If the "waters" have escaped and 
 the womb and vagina are dry, inject warm flaxseed tea into 
 them. Now the principal object is to turn the foetus, and 
 convert the transverse position into either an anterior or a 
 posterior presentation, for only in this way can delivery be 
 
 Fig. 37. 
 TRANSVERSE PRESENTATION (FOAL). 
 
 effected. If the position of the foetus is such, that the fore- 
 limbs are most convenient, and can with the least difficulty 
 be brought into the pelvic inlet, the position should be con- 
 verted into an anterior presentation. If the hind-limbs are 
 more accessible and can be brought into the inlet with less 
 difficulty, convert the position into a posterior presenta- 
 tion. The flaxseed injections into the womb, together 
 with the contractions of the womb, and the operator 
 forcing the foetus forward within the womb in an oblique 
 direction, opposite that of the part which is to be brought 
 into the inlet, will, in many cases, cause the body of the 
 foetus to glide around the inner surface of the womb, until 
 a convenient part presents. Now the operator must as- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 177 
 
 certain if the limbs, and if anterior presentation, the limbs 
 and head, are in the proper position (See Figs. 17 and 18). 
 before bringing them into the passage. If they are not, 
 adjust them and bring into the passage by means of the 
 hand, or if much traction is necessary, a rope may be used 
 with advantage. But in either case it will be necessary 
 to guide the foetus with the hand. The Ewe and Goat 
 
 TRANSVERSE PRESEXTATIOX WITH SHOULDER AND 
 LOIN PRESENTED (FOAL). 
 
 will require the same manipulation as the Mare and Cow. 
 With the Bitch and Cat the foetus will be more success- 
 fully turned into a normal presentation by means of the 
 forceps and external abdominal manipulations. 
 
 BREAST AND ABDOMINAL PRESEXTATIOX. 
 
 In this position the foetus is placed horizontally across 
 the womb, the legs flexed or extended toward the inlet. 
 
 On examination, as the operator passes the hand to 
 explore the parts, it first encounters the feet — usually all 
 
178 
 
 Obstetrics — Dom esti gated A n i m als. 
 
 four of them. They may be in the womb doubled against 
 the body of the foetus, or they may be in the genital canal, 
 and even protrude from the vulva. In the majority of 
 cases, either the hind-quarters or the fore-quarters are near 
 the passage, a condition recognized by the legs of that part 
 being further advanced than those of the other. The direc- 
 tion of the head must be ascertained, which is readily de- 
 
 Fig. 39. 
 
 TRANSVERSE PRESENTATION: SHOULDER AND LOIN 
 PRESENTED (FOAL). 
 
 termined if the head can be felt. If this is impossible, then 
 a careful examination of the limbs will be necessary. To 
 distinguish between the hind-limbs and the fore-limbs, 
 read the paragraph explaining this, under How to Make 
 Successful Examinations in Difficult Parturition. It must 
 be remembered that in this presentation, the fore-limbs 
 and hind-limbs are across each other, when engaged in the 
 genital passage. The hind-limbs crossing the fore-limbs, 
 are pointing towards the head or anterior part of the body 
 of the foetus ; while the fore-limbs, crossing the hind-limbs, 
 point toward the posterior part of the foetus. As a rule, 
 this is not a very serious presentation. The gravity of the 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 179 
 
 case depends somewhat upon the length of time labour has 
 been in progress. It is impossible for birth to occur while 
 the foetus is in this position, and if the mother does not 
 receive the necessary aid in due time, her straining may 
 not only cause the death of the foetus, but the mother will- 
 likewise perish from prostration. 
 
 TREATMENT.— Generally the operator will find it 
 advantageous to convert the position into a posterior pres- 
 
 Fig. 40. 
 
 TRANSVERSE PRESENTATION; BREAST AND ABDOMEN- 
 PRESENTED, HEAD AND FEET ENGAGED (FOAL). 
 
 entation and deliver the hind feet first. Fasten welt 
 greased ropes around the limbs which are to be extracted? 
 first. If only one hind-foot and one fore-foot are engaged' 
 in the passage, fasten a rope around one hind- foot and 
 search for the other one; secure it, and bring it into the 
 passage. Now return the presenting fore-limb to the 
 womb, forcing it as far in as possible, apply traction andf 
 deliver. 
 
 If all four feet are presented in the passage, fasten 
 ropes to the hind feet; then return the fore-feet as far as 
 
180 
 
 Oi'.STETRics — Domi-:stic.\ti:d Animals. 
 
 possible within the womb. Sometimes this is more easily 
 accomplished by flexing the fore-limbs at the knee, until 
 the foot rests against the elbow; then force it within the 
 Avomb in a downward direction, while the assistant draws 
 upon the hind-feet. With this manipulation the foetus 
 will generally straighten out, and with slight traction birth 
 
 Fig. 41. 
 
 TRANSVERSE PRESENTATION: BREAST AND ABDOMEN 
 
 PRESEXTi: I), niND-LIMBS MOST ADVANCED, HEAD 
 
 RETAINED (CALF). 
 
 will soon b'c complcUd. Bui when the hind-legs, croup, 
 and hips have been delivered, the operator should pass his 
 hand between the belly of the foetus and the floor of the 
 genital canal, to ascertain if the fore-limbs have become 
 cramped or fastened within the inlet. If so, straighten 
 them by pushing them inward, for if not straightened, 
 serious results might follow. Even if the head is engaged 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 181 
 
 along with all four limbs in the passage, it is preferable to 
 return it to the womb in a downward direction along with 
 the fore-limbs, and that delivery be made with the hind- 
 feet first. 
 
 It is well that the operator bear in mind the necessity 
 of the back of the foetus being placed against the back of 
 the mother, before attempting delivery, w^hatever the 
 presentation may be. 
 
 In those cases in which the foetus has the limbs 
 doubled against the body, and can only be touched with 
 the tips of the fingers of the operator, the hind-quarters of 
 the mother should be lowered by placing her on a sloping 
 floor — on the back if necessary; an assistant then manipu- 
 lates the foetus through the abdominal wall, so as to move 
 it toward the inlet, where one or more of its limbs may be 
 secured by the operator. The procedure will then be'the 
 same as the above. 
 
 In the breast and abdominal presentation, if it is found 
 impossible to force the foetus back into the womb and the 
 foetus is dead, there should be no hesitation about resort- 
 ing to embryotomy (which see). 
 
 The foregoing indications and treatment are applicable 
 to the Sheep and Goat, as well as the Mare and Cow. With 
 the Bitch and Cat, the foetus can be more successfully 
 turned or converted into a normal presentation, by means 
 of the forceps (Fig. 56), and external abdominal manipu- 
 lation. 
 
 MALPRESENTATIONS OF TWIxV FOETUSES, 
 
 Difficult parturition is sometimes present during the 
 delivery of twin foetuses. This is usually due either to one 
 or both presenting in a malposition, or both presenting at 
 the inlet together. As they cannot pass through the canal 
 together, hence the difficulty. For illustration of Twin 
 Foetuses in the Normal Position, see Fig. 11. 
 
 On examination it is sometimes found that the limbs 
 
•182 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 of the twins are so interlaced that they are separated only 
 with the greatest difficulty. But they must be seaprated; 
 and then the operator has to determine which one presents 
 the most favorably. If assistance is not afforded before 
 both foetuses become wedged into the pelvic inlet, the 
 operator will experience great difficulty in adjusting them. 
 But if distinguished before entering the inlet, but little 
 trouble need be anticipated. 
 
 TREATMENT. — After untangling and selecting the 
 foetus which presents the most favorably, fasten ropes to 
 the head and fore-limbs or to the hind-limbs, as the presen- 
 tation may be, and arrange them in a direction proper for 
 delivery. Then an assistant by means of the ropes, draws 
 the foetus toward the outlet, while the operator pushes the 
 'Other foetus back into the womb. After delivering the 
 first one, search for the other, which probably will be in a 
 malposition, requiring adjustment before it can be bom. 
 The procedure in this case will be the same as if only a 
 single foetus had been delivered. 
 
 MECHANICAL MEANS AND INSTRUMENTS 
 USED FOR THE EXTRACTION OF 
 THE FOETUS- 
 MECHANICAL DILATION OF THE MOUTH OF 
 THE WOMB. 
 
 If the fingers and hand are to afford the means for dila- 
 tation of the mouth of the womb, they must be well oiled, 
 or smeared with extract of belladonna, and introduced in 
 the form of a cone, toward the mouth; if they cannot be 
 passed into the canal in this shape, then the insertion of 
 one finger may be attempted, followed by a second, and so 
 on until the hand has been pushed through. Very fre- 
 
Ousti-:trics — Domesticated Animals. 188 
 
 quently this cannot be accomplished at the first trial, nor 
 yet at the second; but with patience and judgment it rare- 
 ly fails, and if conducted with the care and gentleness 
 which all operations of this kind should receive, such man- 
 ipulations may be attempted without the least danger at 
 intervals of a few hours, until crowned with success. The 
 condition of the mouth of the womb should be ascertained, 
 after a certain period has elapsed since the last attempt, 
 every precaution being adopted to prevent injury; and an 
 
 Fig. X. 
 WOMB DILATOR. 
 
 =<39^ 
 
 entrance to it ought only to be effected when the resistance 
 has greatly diminished, and can easily be overcome. 
 
 Mechanical dilation of the mouth of the womb by 
 means of the sponge tent has been much and successfully 
 employed. The tent can usually be purchased at the drug- 
 gist's, but if not it is easily made as described in the treat- 
 ment of sterility (which see). Of course, the size of the 
 tent varies according to the size of the animal. The sponge 
 tent is especially indicated when the object is to induce 
 labour. 
 
 The womb dilator (Fig. X) is very useful, as it dilates 
 the mouth of the womb in the same manner as the natural 
 
184 OusTETRics — Domesticated Ammals. 
 
 "water-bag." The bag (A) when in an empty condition, is 
 introduced into the mouth of the womb by means of a 
 whalebone sound or director (B), which fits into a small 
 pocket (C) at the side; it is pushed through the canal until 
 the pocket end projects into the womb ; then warm water is 
 steadily injected into it by means of the tube and bulb (D) 
 attached to the other end. When filled with water the bag 
 remains in the mouth of the womb, in consequence of the 
 middle portion being narrower than the two ends. A sim- 
 pler, and perhaps as useful, a contrivance, can be construc- 
 ted from the fresh bladder of an animal securely tied to a 
 bulb syringe and used in the same manner as Fig. X. Also 
 see treatment for Hurried Labour in Normal Parturition. 
 
 CORDS— ROPES— BANDS. 
 
 Ropes and bands, are of all mechanical means, the 
 •most useful in veterinary obstetricy. They vary in thick- 
 ness and length; they are usually about five or six feet in 
 length, and if spun rope, from a quarter to half an inch or 
 more thick. At one end may be a loop (Fig. 42), or iron 
 ring (Fig. 50), by which to form a running noose (Fig. 
 42). If a somewhat stiff loop is required, it is very useful 
 to have a long piece of copper wire twined in the cord. 
 Ropes should be thoroughly cleansed and greased before 
 using. As ropes readily absorb germs and septic matter, 
 it is never safe to use the same rope a second time. Some 
 practitioners are very careless about this, and the result is 
 usually unsatisfactory. 
 
 For the jaw the cord should be rather thin and soft, 
 but strong. To render a hard cord softer, it may be par- 
 tially untwisted at the part intended to go around a por- 
 tion of the foetus. 
 
 When running knots or loops are made, these should 
 be so tied that there is no chance of their becoming untied 
 through sHpping, when they come in contact with lubricat- 
 ing fluids and are strained. Whatever is used for this pur- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 185 
 
 pose should be very pliable, and yet sufficiently strong to 
 withstand energetic pulling. 
 
 A very good traction cord is made as illustrated in 
 Fig. 42-B. This is merely a cord with a running noose at 
 one end, and a small piece of round wood at the other, to 
 give the assistant a better hold, and enable him to use more 
 
 Fig. 42-A. 
 
 TRACTION CORD AND BAND. 
 THE MANNER OF APPLYING THEM. 
 
 Fig. 42-B. 
 TRACTION CORD. 
 
 force. This is applied in the same manner as Fig. 42-A. 
 Either mode. Fig. 42-A or B, will be found very simple and 
 convenient to apply, especially to the Hmbs. 
 
 MANNER OF APPLYING, FIG 42-A and B.— 
 Gather the fingers together so as to form a kind of cone, on 
 which the running noose of the cord is placed, as in Fig. 
 42-A. The noose is kept in its place on the fingers, in 
 tightening the cord, by the free portion which passes along 
 the under side of the hand and arm; unless this precaution 
 i« adopted, the noose will be pushed back over the hand 
 wnen introduced into the vagina. The hand and cord be-. 
 
186 
 
 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 ing oiled, are introduced into the passage, and when the 
 foot is reached it is seized in the fingers; these are then sud- 
 denly bent, so as to shorten the cone and cause the noose 
 to run onto the pastern by a gentle pull of the cord, which 
 can then be tightened and given to an assistant. The neck 
 of the lower jaw is "corded" in a similar manner; the 
 mouth of the foetus being opened, the noose is passed 
 around the neck of the lower jaw, and the knot or loop 
 placed beneath the chin. 
 
 Fig. 43. 
 HEAD COLLAR. 
 
 Cords are very useful and can be applied to any por- 
 tion of the body. When long cords are used, and energetic 
 traction is likely to be employed, knots should be tied at 
 intervals, to prevent the hands of the assistant slipping. 
 
 HEAD-COLLAR, HEAD-CORD, OR HALTER. 
 
 As before mentioned, the interdental space, or "neck" 
 of the jaw is convenient for the attachment of the cord; but I 
 it will be found in practice, that if the noose does not slip 
 
Obstetrics — Do.mesticatkd Animals. 187 
 
 off the jaw, which is often the case, should the traction be 
 at all energetic, the bones will probably be smashed, the 
 foetus, if alive, irreparably damaged. It is, therefore, verj 
 important that the head-collar be placed on the foetus 
 whenever it will accomplish the desired effect, in preference 
 to the cording of the jaws. 
 
 The Head-collar illustrated in Fig. 43 is one of the 
 best patterns, is simple and easily constructed, and can be 
 
 Fig. 44. 
 
 HEAD COLLAR PLACED ON CALF'S HEAD, THE RIGHr 
 FORE-PASTERN BEING ALSO CORDED. 
 
 adjusted to any sized head. It is made from a long piece 
 of cord with a loop or eyelet at one end, and at a certain 
 distance from this — from fourteen to sixteen inches — a sec- 
 ond loop. The other end of the cord is passed through the 
 first loop, so as to make a noose which goes round the neck 
 of the foetus; then through the second loop which goes 
 round the lower part of the head, and may be made large 
 or small. The remaining portion is used for traction. This 
 head-collar is held at its upper part by the index-finger and 
 thumb, passed into the genital canal or womb, where it is 
 placed on the head of the foetus and the sides applied to 
 
188 
 
 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 the cheeks; the lower portion, which was open, is now 
 closed by running the end of the cord through the second 
 loop, by which the head is firmly secured, as in Fig. -13. 
 (Also see Fig. 44, which is constructed with a metal run- 
 ner.) It is now ready for traction. 
 
 Fig. -io. 
 WIRE- EXTRACTOR. 
 
 WIRE EXTRACTOR FOR THE SMALL ANIMALS. 
 
 With the Sow, Bitch, Cat, and sometimes the Ewe, 
 cords cannot be passed around the head of the foetus, be- 
 cause of the want of space ; and on the same grounds for- 
 ceps are objectionable. With these animals it is essential 
 that the traction force should be apphed behind the head. 
 Therefore the wire extractor will be a very useful appar- 
 
 Fig. 46. 
 WIRE EXTRACTOR APPLIED. 
 
 atus for this purpose. It consists merely of two very pli- 
 able copper or brass wires — twisted picture-frame wire has 
 been found to answer admirably — but remember any kind 
 of wire must be thoroughly cleansed before used — about 
 sixteen inches in length, and looped in the middle, so as to 
 be applied to the foetus in the following manner: The first 
 finger of the left hand being passed into the vagina, serves 
 to guide one of the loops towards the summit of and behind 
 
OrSTETRICS DOMESTICATKO AxiMAI.S. 189 
 
 the foetal head; and it then conducts the loop of the other 
 wire beneath the head behind the jaw. This done, the two 
 wires on each side are twisted by a little machine (Fig. 45) 
 composed of a thin rod in a handle, the other end of which 
 is thickened and pierced by holes running nearly parallel to 
 the stalk. Into these holes the two wires of one side are 
 passed, then the two on the other side into the other ma- 
 chine; the machine on each side is pulled up as close as 
 possible to the head of the foetus, and then, each bdng 
 turned round three or four times, the neck is enclosed in a 
 kind of noose or collar formed by the two wires (Fig. 46). 
 The rods are now withdrawn from the wires and the foetus 
 can be extracted by exercising traction (see Traction) on 
 the ends of the four wires outside the vulva. By this con- 
 trivance, delivery is eflfected without injury to the mother, 
 and, unless it is much decomposed, without separating the 
 head of the foetus. 
 
 TUBE AND XOOSE. 
 
 A much simpler and readier apparatus, than the wire 
 extractor, is the tube and noose. In some cases it can be 
 successfully employed with Sows, Ewes, and Goats; but it 
 is especially adapted to the small Bitch and Cat. 
 
 Fig. 47. 
 TUBE AND XOOSE. 
 
 The tube consists of a tubular piece of round wood, 
 from four to six inches long, and half an inch thick. The 
 noose consists of catgut or wire, either of copper, brass, or 
 iron (catgut is preferable), about sixteen inches long; this 
 is doubled, passed through the tube to a certain extent .so as 
 to form a loop or noose at the end (Fig. 47). When it is 
 
190 
 
 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 to be used, the first finger of the left hand carries the loop 
 into the vagina of the mother, and slips it behind the head 
 of the foetus; then the two ends of the wire are passed 
 through the tube, and this is pushed into the vagina under 
 
 Fig. 48. 
 NOOSE FIXED ON THE FOETUS. 
 
 the chin of the foetus; the operator now tightens and se- 
 cures the wire, by giving it a turn around the first finger 
 of his right hand, placing his thumb at the end of the tube 
 (Fig. 48). A httle traction then extracts the foetus, and 
 without doing it or the mother the least damage. Even 
 the tiniest toy terriers have been extracted alive in this 
 manner, when aid was given in time. 
 
 PORTE-CORD OR PASS. 
 The arm of the operator may not be sufficiently long 
 to pass cords to the region where they might be most effec- 
 tively fixed, or the contractions of the womb paralyze the 
 hand of the operator. In such circumstances the porte- 
 cord, or pass-cord is of great service. The instrument is of 
 two shapes, straight and curved. 
 
 Fig. 49. 
 
 DARREAU'S REPELLER, ARMED WITH A RUNNING 
 NOOSE. 
 
 The Straight Porte-cord is usually a rod of three-eighth 
 inch iron, furnished with a wooden handle at one end. and 
 an eyelet or double opening at the other end to receive the 
 cord. It is used to pass the traction cord around the limbs, 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 191 
 
 or the neck of the lower jaw. After fixing the traction cord 
 to the part, the porte-cord may be removed. And if it is 
 constructed as in Fig. 49. if not removed from the traction 
 cord, it may also be most serviceable as a repeller in push- 
 ing the foetus forward in the womb. Two of these may be 
 used at the same time, on two limbs. 
 
 The Curved Porte-cord has its uses in certain cases 
 when the straight one cannot be serviceable — as in passing 
 a cord round the head or bent neck, thighs, or loins. 
 
 Fig. 50. 
 
 GUNTHER'S CURVED PORTE-CORD AND BLUNT 
 CROTCHET ARMED WITH A CORD AND RING. 
 
 The curved porte-cord (Fig. 50) is constructed from a 
 rod of three-eighth inch iron. One end is curved and furn- 
 ished with an eyelet through which the traction cord is 
 threaded. The other end is provided with a wooden han- 
 dle. The traction cord to be introduced by the curved 
 porte-cord, has only a loop or ring — no noose — at the end 
 of it. The curved portion is pushed around the part of the 
 foetus to be secured, and the hand, leaving it, is passed to 
 the opposite side of the part, where it searches for the loop 
 or ring, which, when found, is drawn into the genital canal. 
 The porte-cord is then withdrawn, the traction cord re- 
 maining around the part ; the free end of the cord is passed 
 through the loop or ring, and being pulled at, the limb. 
 neck, body, or whatever it may be, is secured in the noose 
 so formed, and traction can be directly exerted upon it. 
 
 REPELLER, OR CRUTCH. 
 
 When it is necessary to repel or force the foetus farther 
 into the womb, away from the inlet, it must not be forgot- 
 ten that the hand and arm are the safest and most perfect 
 
192 Oi'.sTETRics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 of instruments, and should always be preferred — at least at 
 first — to the repeller or crutch. For the hand feels the 
 parts on which it is placed; it adapts itself more exactly to 
 the surfaces with which it comes in contact; it perceives 
 the resistance they offer, and warns the operator as to the 
 amount of force necessary to effect a certain object ; where- 
 as the presence of a hard and rigid instrument increases the 
 contractions of the womb, and however well applied it may 
 be, it may suddenly glide off rounded and slippery surfaces 
 and cause seriovis injury. 
 
 Nevertheless, there may be and often are, occasions 
 when the hand cannot accomplish what is necessary in the 
 way of retropulsion, and it is then that the repeller is most 
 useful; an assistant can maintain the body of the foetus 
 some distance from the pelvis by this instrument, while the 
 hand of the operator is making the necessary rectifications; 
 the operator is therefore much relieved, and to some extent 
 he is also exempted from the difficulty and fatigue cau-sed 
 by the contractions of the womb. 
 
 W^- 
 
 Fig. 51. 
 JOINT REPELLER CLOSED. 
 
 The repeller or crutch is constructed of iron, and is 
 between two and three feet in length; it has a handle at one 
 end, and a concave transverse piece, like the head of a 
 crutch at the other. This piece may be either solid or joint- 
 ed. The jointed repeller (Figs. 51 and 52) is preferable, as 
 it can be closed, making it safer and easier to introduce in- 
 to the vagina and womb. The crutch end being carefully 
 carried by one hand through the genital canal, towards the 
 foetus, is applied to the most convenient part of the 
 foetus; while the handle is seized in the other hand, and 
 force can be effected either bv this hand, the breast of the 
 
Or.sTETRics — Domesticated Animals. 193 
 
 operator, or an assistant. (For Repeller armed with a trac- 
 tion cord, see Fig. 49.) 
 
 Retropulsion, or the forcing of the foetus away from 
 the inlet or mouth of the womb, should only be effected in 
 the intervals between straining "labour pains;" during 
 
 Fig. 52. 
 JOINT REPELLER OPEN. 
 
 these "pains" the foetus should simply be held firmly in 
 place, therefore resisting the expulsive efforts. 
 
 While the repeller is being employed, one hand of the 
 operator must guide and maintain it against the foetus, to 
 prevent it slipping and injuring the maternal organs. Be- 
 fore retropulsion it is nearly always necessary to secure 
 some part of the foetus — head or limbs- — by cords, so that 
 it may be readily seized again and brought into the pelvic 
 cavity. Again the attention of the operator is called to 
 the fact, that, retropulsion must be eifected in the interval 
 between the labour pains; while traction must be effected 
 during the labour pains. 
 
 CROTCHETS OR HOOKS. 
 
 Crotchets or hooks are iron or steel instruments of vari- 
 able dimensions, more or less curved at one end — which is 
 blunt, sharp or pointed — the other end having a ring, or 
 eyelet if short, a handle if long. The long crotchet (Figs. 
 50 and 55) is from thirty to thirt3^-six inches in length, and 
 acts directly on the foetus without any other appliance in- 
 tervening; while the short hooks (Figs. 53 and 54) have 
 cords attached to them, or they may fit on the finger of the 
 
194 OusTETRics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 operator by means of a ring (Fig. 54). When using the 
 long or short sharp pointed crotchets, the hand must act as 
 a guard or shield to prevent the sharp point injuring the 
 maternal organs. If the hand is not found sufficient to 
 guard the instrument during its introduction, it is advis- 
 able to fix the point in a piece of cork or soft wood, to 
 which a long piece of twine is attached; when the crotchet 
 
 Fig. 53. 
 SHORT BLUNT CROTCHET. 
 
 is required to be implanted in the foetus, this shield may be 
 removed from the point, and withdrawn from the genital 
 organs by pulling at the end of the twine outside the vulva. 
 The curve of the sharp crotchet should not be very wide; it 
 should not be greater than the hand can cover, as it then 
 can be held in a manner that will obviate injury to the op- 
 
 Fig. 54. 
 BLUNT FINGER CROTCHET. 
 
 •erator as well as lo the mother. The curve of the blunt 
 crotchet sliould not be over four inches wide. 
 
 The blunt crotchets are more particularly resorted to 
 when the foetus is alive, and it is hoped to extract it be- 
 fore it is dead. The finger crotchet may be usefully em- 
 ployed when the hand is fatigued or paralyzed by the con- 
 tractions of the womb. Blunt crotchets of a much smaller 
 size than those required for the larger animals can be most 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 195 
 
 successfully employed in delivering the Sow, Ewe, Goat, 
 Bitch, or Cat. 
 
 The crotchet affords a simple means of getting hold 
 of the foetus in regions of its body which the hand cannot 
 possibly reach, or if it did, where it could do very little ser- 
 vice either from the shape of the part, its slipperiness, or 
 the paralyzing effect of the contractions of the womb on 
 the hand and arm of the operator. When it is necessary 
 to implant this instrument into the muscular tissue, the 
 sharp pointed crotchet is usually resorted to. When blunt 
 crotchets are employed in this manner, except in cavities, 
 it will be necessary to make an incision through the skin 
 before they can be inserted. Crotchets may be implanted 
 in the muscular tissues of the croup, thighs, loins, and 
 
 r^ 
 
 Fig. 55. 
 LONG POINTED CROTCHET. 
 
 neck, as the skin offers a good amount of resistance. But 
 from the fragile and yielding nature of the textures, it 
 must be borne in mind that the hand of the operator 
 should never leave the crotchet while traction is made on 
 it, and that its position must be most attentively noted, in 
 order to guard against accidents arising from its tearing 
 away. For should the tissues suddenly give way and the 
 crotchet slip into the maternal organs, serious, if not fatal, 
 injuries may be inflicted; or the hand or arm of the opera- 
 tor may be the part to suffer. Therefore the necessity that 
 the hand of the operator diligently guide the crochet, and 
 note its effects and movements; while at the same time, he 
 must vigilantly exercise his judgment in directing his 
 assistants as to the amount and direction of the force they 
 are to use, so as to proportion it according to the resistance 
 of the tissues in which the crotchet is fixed, and to desist 
 from traction as soon as there is a likelihood of the instru- 
 ment breaking away or slipping. 
 
1}»(j OiiSTETuics — D()mi:sticati-:d Animals. 
 
 The cavity of the eye affords a good point for implant- 
 ing the blunt crotchet, especially if the foetus is dead, as 
 does also the angle of the lower jaw, and the ear, on par- 
 ticular occasions. But in this, as when implanted into the 
 muscular tissue, the crotchet must be carefully watched, 
 avoiding the tearing of the tissues of these parts. 
 
 It is astonishing how quickly wounds will heal that 
 have been inflicted in the live foetus by the implanting of 
 the crotchet. When the foetus is dead, and especially if 
 very much decayed, it is advisable to implant the crotchet 
 at a point where it will become fixed beneath some of the 
 bones, as this will prevent it from tearing out so easily. 
 
 FORCEPS. 
 
 The Forceps have not yielded much service to the vet- 
 erinary obstetrist, except with the smaller animals. The 
 Bitch forceps (Fig. 56) has in some cases proved service- 
 
 Fig. 56. 
 BITCH FORCEPS. 
 
 able with the Ewe, Goat, Sow, Bitch and Cat. The forceps 
 are held in position by one hand, while the other hand or a 
 finger of the other hand (according to the size of the ani- 
 mal) introduces and guides the instrument, and allows the 
 part of the foetus to be seized to be reached by the opera- 
 tor, either with the view of extracting the young creature 
 or changing its position, according to indications. An es- 
 sential which should not be lost sight of in the forceps for 
 such small animals as the Bitch and Cat, is that the blades 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 197 
 
 should be sufficiently long to seize not only the head, but 
 much, if not all the body of the foetus. For as the neck 
 of the foetus in these animals is almost as thick as its head^ 
 unless the blad-es of the forceps are sufficiently long to 
 grasp a portion of its body, the head will slip from between 
 the blades. . 
 
 With the small animals the head of the foetus is only 
 a trifle less than the diameter of the pelvis. Therefore, it 
 can be readily seen, that when the blades of the forceps are 
 passed on the head of the foetus, the head and the forceps 
 combined constitute a mass greater than the pelvic cavity 
 will permit to pass through it; so that delivery becomes im- 
 possible. Especially is this the case with the small Bitch 
 and Cat, and for this reason recourse to the forceps is sel- 
 dom indicated; and if delivery is to be effected, a means 
 must be substituted which presents less inconvenience. 
 Therefore it is that the Wire Extractor (Figs. 45 and 46) 
 or the Tube and Noose (Figs. 47 and 48) are to.be pre- 
 ferred in nearly all cases.. 
 
 TRACTION— THE EMPLOYMENT OF FORCE IN 
 DIFFICULT PARTURITION. 
 
 •. ■ An important question to be considered is the employ- 
 ment of force in the artificial extractionof the foetus. For 
 as has been shown, more or less energetic traction is very 
 frequently needed to remove it from its parent; and those 
 who are inexperienced in animal obstetrics, are sometimes 
 
 ■ astonished on hearing of the amount of pulling which the 
 foetus has to undergo, and the parent sustain, before, deliv- 
 ery can be effected in some cases. It is a subject well de- 
 serving theattention.of the obstetrist, and especially the 
 junior practitioner. The, indications for traction have Ueen 
 
 ■given in the preceding subjects, and will not be alluded to 
 
 'fiigain. ••• : . ' 
 
 ■ ■. •• When traction is requireil, if the patient be a. Mare or 
 Cow, the operator should be. supplied with from six to ten 
 
198 OiJSTF.TRics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 assistants; one to be placed at the head of the animal, an- 
 other holding the rope which confines the limbs of the ani- 
 mal and prevents it doing damage, a third to hold the tail, 
 a fourth to assist the operator, and the other two to six (ac- 
 cording to the amount of traction to be employed) to puU 
 at the foetus when necessary. 
 
 In the Mare and Cow, moderate traction consists of the 
 combined strength of two or three strong men pulling^ 
 steadily together with all their force. Energetic tractiou 
 consists of the combined strength of from three to siK 
 strong men pulling in the same manner. Moderate trac- 
 tion usually is sufficient, if well managed. Energetic trac- 
 tion is always dangerous and should not be resorted to 
 unless absolutely necessary. 
 
 The operator's assistants should be strong, and have 
 had some experience in handling animals. Precautions 
 should be adopted to prevent accidents — especially to the 
 assistants — from the struggles or defensive movements of 
 the animal; and when traction is employed, there is great 
 danger of dragging the animal backward and causing seri- 
 ous injury. Therefore, it is obvious that it is necessary to 
 render the creature immovable by passing cords, bands, or 
 a sack behind the thighs and above the hocks, bringing the 
 ends against the animal's shoulders, and maintaining them 
 there by attaching them to the manger or any other part 
 sufficiently strong. A wooden bar placed behind the thighs 
 and secured to the stall posts, is also serviceable; as is like- 
 Ivise an ordinary harness breeching, the front parts being 
 secured to rings in the wall or manger. When the operator 
 gives the signal, the assistants should pull together without 
 jerking, in a steady and energetic manner, in a straight 
 line behind the animal. The direction of the traction may, 
 however, be a little downward in the anterior presentation, 
 until the withers have passed the inlet. The operator 
 stands behind the mother, his hands on the sides of the 
 vulvft, which he depresses with the border of one hand, 
 ■while with the back of it he separates the lips of the vulva 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Aximals. 19f 
 
 and prevents their being abraded by the traction cord. It 
 is better to engage only one shoulder of the foetus at a time 
 if possible; and when the breast and one shoulder have 
 been carried into the passage, then the other shoulder is 
 brought forward by directing the assistants to pull a trifle 
 to the opposite side. By acting in this way with care, and 
 by slow, though continued efforts while the parent is 
 straining, delivery will be effected, if this be possible by 
 traction. The operator must not act hurriedly or 
 bruesquely, and his hand should carefully attend the 
 advance of the foetus; facilitating its passage, and aiding 
 the progress of the haunches by passing his open hand 
 between them and the maternal pelvis. 
 
 In the posterior presentation, when at least one assist- 
 ant must be told off to each cord, the traction should b^ 
 moderate, or even gentle at first, until the operator's hand 
 has adjusted the foetus as much as possible. In addition, 
 the operator, besides directing his assistants, must fre- 
 quently himself guide the traction by the disengaged hand, 
 and personally exert himself in the extraction of the young- 
 creature— separating the lips of the vulva, and pressing 
 them towards the pelvis, when they are pushed outwards 
 by the advancing foetus; lubricating the foetus and genital 
 canal when necessary, with flaxseed tea, etc. 
 
 When powerful traction is required, great attentioa 
 is necessary in guiding the foetus through the genital canal, 
 so as to prevent injury to the parent. The traction should 
 cease in the intervals between the labour pains, and the ef- 
 forts ought not to be continuous; the animal should be al- 
 lowed inten.^als of rest, and time be given the genital canal 
 to dilate and adapt itself to the passage of the foetus. 
 Severe and injudicious traction may be productive of the 
 most serious results. Even when the operation is nearly 
 terminated, care will be required in order to prevent inver- 
 sion of the womb. This accident may be obviated by care- 
 ful manipulation, and abundant injection of emollieat 
 duids, as flaxseed tea. or Unseed jelly. 
 
200 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 When energetic traction is required, and it is impos- 
 sible to obtain the proper amount of reliable assistants, 
 hitching the Horse or Ox to the foetus has been resorted 
 to, but this is barbarous and cruel and should never be 
 practiced, as it is impossible to obtain the even traction 
 which is desired (without jerks) with the power of the 
 Horse or Ox; the yoimg creature being simply torn through 
 the maternal passage; therefore the obstetric machine 
 (Fig. 57) will be of the greatest utility, and operators need 
 not hesitate to employ it, as this machine has been tested 
 and receives the highest praise. Not only can a greater 
 .tractile force be developed by it, but this force may be 
 diminished or increased at will, and as gradually as cir- 
 cumstances may require, and without the jerks which are 
 sometimes so troublesome and disastrous, when it is im- 
 possible to persuade five or six men to pull evenly together. 
 The obstetrical machine presses against the hindquarters 
 of the parturient animal, and owing to its construction it 
 cannot only develop a very energetic extractive force in 
 the gentlest and most inoffensive way possible, but itself 
 produces the counter-extension in an exactly proportion- 
 ate degree. 
 
 The principal parts of the machine are: A kind of 
 horse-collar (Fig. 57, A) with three stalks (B, C, D) in- 
 termediate between this collar, and a broad, fixed, female 
 screw (E), which receives a movable screw rod (H), that 
 bears "a revolving hook and chain (K) at one end; the other 
 end of the chain has also a hook to which the cords or cord 
 fixed on the foetus aire attached. The collar (A) is- made 
 of several pieces of light wood superposed, and bound, to- 
 gether by an iron band applied to the opposite surface of 
 that which is i'obe applied to the animal. This band is per- 
 forated by three screw holes placed in a triangular posi- 
 tion, arid which receive the ircm stalks; • The inner face of 
 the collar is so fashioned as-to fit closely on the hind, parts 
 qf-tlie ariirhal, the space for ihe'-p'assage of th-e foetus being 
 about twenty inches in- diameter. The intermediate stalks 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 201 
 
 (B, C, D) serve to transmit to the collar the pressure ex- 
 ercised by the female screw; they are about forty inches 
 long, and each is composed of two pieces, one of these be- 
 ing hollow (4, 5, 6), the other solid (1, 2, 3) ; consequently, 
 one fits into the other, and the end opposite the collar 
 enters one of the openings in the flange of the female screw 
 (E) ; a small thumb-screw (7, 8, 9) secures the two portions 
 of the stalk. The female screw (E) is of iron or copper. tTie 
 
 Fig. 57. 
 OBSTETRIC MACHINE. 
 
 flange being of wood, and its circumference provided with 
 two handles to hold it firmly when the machine is in use. 
 The male screw (H) is of iron, and screwed to the right; 
 one extremity articulates witli. the turning-hook (I) ; it is 
 screwed in the contrary direction to the principal portion, 
 so, as ijot to become unscrewed duririgthe operation; the 
 othfireijdh^Ls a. four-branched windlass (L), which can be 
 removed at will. ... •. • 
 
 . To use the machine, the animal is made to lie;'-the 
 
tiQ2 Obstetrics — Domesticatkd Aximals. 
 
 cords are attached to the foetus in the usual manner; the 
 windlass handle is put on its place; the screwed stalk (H) 
 is introduced into the female screw to about as far as J; 
 the collar is applied to the animals' croup, and the three 
 long stalks are fixed — one end in the collar, the other in the 
 flange of the female screw. An assistant keeps the machine 
 in equilibrium by placing one of his hands on one of the 
 forked handles (F. G) of the flange, while the other hand 
 rests firmly on the ground. Another assistant, the cord at- 
 tached to the foetus being fixed in the hook at the end of 
 the chain (K), slowly turns the windlass in such a direc- 
 tion as will bring the extremity of the stalk (I) towards the 
 flange, while the operator superintends the extraction in 
 the same manner as when manual power is employed. 
 Giving the same attention and observing the same pre- 
 cautions. If it is desired to slightly change the direction of 
 traction, as is recommended in some of the presentations, 
 it can be easily varied upwards, downwards, or to one side 
 or the other, by having an assistant press against the cord 
 or cords, so as to give these the necessary direction. 
 
 With the Ewe, Goat, Sow, Bitch, and Cat, the operator 
 himself applies the needed force, though an assistant is us- 
 ually necessary to hold the creature. Generally, very little 
 traction can be made because of the danger of tearing the 
 foetus in pieces, and what is employed should be gentle and 
 sustained; indeed, the foetus should be held steady, trac- 
 tion only made during the expulsive efforts of the mother, 
 ^nd then lightly and steadily. 
 
 EMBRYOTOMY. 
 
 EMBRYOTOMY is the name given to every operation 
 which has for its object the reduction in volume of the 
 foetus at parturition, by mutilating or dividing it; so as to 
 allow it to be extracted by portions when it cannot be de- 
 livered whole. 
 
 The fact that only one hand can be employed in the 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 203 
 
 womb, that this organ is applied close to the foetus when 
 the "waters" have escaped for some time, that the mem- 
 branes are adhesive and cling to the fingers, and that the 
 flaccid tissues of the young creature glide away from the 
 cutting instrument — as they can only be rendered tense in 
 cenain circumstances by the cords or crotchets — and a<i 
 the operation must be effected either in the genital canal 
 or in the cavity of the womb, the manipulation of cutting 
 instruments in such a confined space by one hand, under 
 all the disadvantages of distance from the operator, the 
 struggles and paralyzing straining of the mother, and 
 without the aid of vision to guide and direct, renders the 
 task peculiarly difficult and dangerous. It is sometimes 
 difficult to distinguish what belongs to the foetus and what. 
 to the mother. Such cases should only be attempted by an 
 e.xperienced operator; the amateur should never attempt 
 embryotomy unless he is sure of the part he is about to re- 
 move, as a mistake would undoubtedly prove fatal to the 
 mother. 
 
 Embryotomy may be practiced on the head, limbs, or 
 body; but the instruments which are recommended for per- 
 forming this operation must be noticed first, as well as the 
 preliminary arrangements. 
 
 EMBRYOTOMY INSTRUMENTS. 
 
 The straight embryotome (Fig. 58) and the curved em- 
 bryotome (Pig. 59) are good and convenient instruments. 
 The hole at the opposite end of the blade in Fig. 59 is ad- 
 vantageous; as a cord or tape can be passed through the 
 hole and tied around the wrist, to prevent the knife slip- 
 ping from the finger and falling into the cavity of the 
 womb. Indeed, this is a wise precaution with all short 
 instruments introduced into the genital organs, as the con- 
 tractions of the womb, struggles of the animal, and the 
 position of the hand, as well as the slipperiness caused by 
 The presence of mucus, etc., often render the hold of %b&^ 
 
204 Ohstktrics — Domksticated Animals. 
 
 instrument very insecure. The middle finger of the opera- 
 ting hand is passed through the ring and the other fingers 
 enclose the blade, which is in this way safely conveyed to 
 the part of. the foetus which is to be incised. The finger 
 knife .is the most useful instrument in embryotomy. 
 
 After an incision has been made in the skin, the spat- 
 ula is used to separate it from the textures beneath. Usual- 
 ly this can be accomplished with the fingers, but if the fin- 
 gers become fatigued the spatula .will be of much service- 
 
 Fig. .->s. 
 STRAIGHT EMBRYOTOME. 
 
 Fig. 59. 
 CURVED EMBRYOTOME. 
 
 The section of bones, though not frequently, is some- 
 times required; for this purpose chisels and saws are em- 
 ployed. The sharp or cutting edges of these must be- 
 guarded or shielded by the hand when introducing them 
 into the genital canal and womb. 
 
 PRELIiMINARY ARRANGEMENTS FOR 
 ■ EMBRYOTOMY. 
 
 :.. Beir^g satisfied that nothing remains to be done to pre- 
 serve the life of the parent but removing tfie. foetus piecc- 
 mtal, the. operator has to decide, from the nature of the 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 205 
 
 case, how this is to be effected; that is, under the circum- 
 stances, which part of the foetus is to be removed first. 
 
 The animal must be detached from the manger or 
 rack, and kept, if possible, in a standing attitude ; this posi- 
 tion being the one best suited for such an operation; or it 
 may be tied by the head to a stake, by a rather long head- 
 rope. A rug or blanket should be passed round the hind- 
 quarters, a little above the hocks, the ends being held by 
 
 Fig. GO. 
 SPATULA. 
 
 '^J^ 
 
 Fig. 61. 
 BONE-CHISEL. 
 
 Fig. 62. 
 BONE SAW. 
 
 assistants standing towards the shoulders of the animal. 
 This precaution is required to steady the creature, to keep 
 it in a standing position, and to assist it in resisting the 
 traction generally employed in removing the foetus. It 
 may be necessary if the animal is much exhausted, to ad- 
 minister several quarts of meal or flour gruel as a stimu- 
 lant before commencing embryotomy. If the animal is 
 suffering much pain, administer a dose of hydrate of chlor- 
 al about ten or fifteen minutes before commencing the 
 operation. 
 
 DOSE. — Hydrate of Chloral. — Mare and Cow, one 
 ounce; Ewe and Sow, one drachm; Bitch and Cat, five 
 grains. Dissolve in water and give as a drench. 
 
?Ott DnSTIiTRlCS — DoMIiSTKATHI) AxiMALS. 
 
 PUXXTURE OF THE CRANIUM, OR SKULL. 
 
 It is sometimes necessary to puncture the cranium in 
 order to allow the escape of fluids. Especially is this neces- 
 sary when the head is enlarged from an excessive accumu- 
 lation of water or fluid. The puncture may be made by the 
 finger-knife, or even the fingers in certain cases. The fluid 
 having escaped, the thin fragile bones of the cranium read- 
 ily collapse from the pressure they undergo in the pelvic 
 cavity; so that the head and body can be removed by trac- 
 tion. 
 
 AMPUTATION OF THE HEAD. (DECAPITATION.) 
 
 Is an operation which consists in separating the head 
 completely from the body, so as to allow these parts to be 
 removed one after the other, is not very often required; 
 and fortunately so, as it is not without great danger to the 
 parent. More frequently the head is only partially re- 
 moved. 
 
 When wedged in the genital passage, the head may 
 prove a troublesome obstacle to the performance of those 
 manoeuvers necessary for the reduction or adjustment of 
 the other parts; as it may not be possible either to advance 
 or repel it, nor yet to pass the hand between it and the pel- 
 vic walls to search for a deviated limb, for example, or to 
 bring that limb into a proper position. This passage must, 
 therefore, be fi-eed from the obstacle, and this can be ac- 
 compHshed in the following manner: The fore-Hmbs, if 
 present, are corded (Figs. 42, 44), and pushed as far to- 
 wards the womb as possible; then the head is secured b)-- 
 cording the lower jaw, a pointed crotchet fixed into the 
 cavity of each eye, or a head-collar (Figs. 43, 44) over the 
 head if it can be placed. Four or five assistants now pull at 
 the head by these apphances, so as to bring it as near the 
 vulva as circumstances will permit; while another assist- 
 ant keeps the lips of the vulva apart, in order to expose as 
 much of the head as he can, and prevent injury to the or- 
 
Obstetrics— Domesticated Animals. 207 
 
 gans of the parent. The operator, with a convenient knife 
 (Fig. 59 is at this time very useful), incises the skin around 
 the neck — first one side, then the other — close to the head, 
 passes his fingers between the skin and the muscles be- 
 neath, and pushes the skin well back on the neck — the as- 
 sistant pulling at the head at the same time, facilitates this 
 separation. A few cuts now divide the soft tissues down 
 to the spinal bone, and nothing more remains to be done 
 than to produce disarticulation by vigorous traction and a 
 twisting movement of the head at the same time; the 
 ligaments gradually yield and tear, the head extends and 
 at last comes away, and the body of the foetus recedes 
 more or less suddenly. If the limbs have been previously 
 secured with cords, they are brought into the passage by 
 the cords attached to them; or if they are not so accessible, 
 they must be sought for in the way already indicated 
 under the different presentations, and delivery completed;, 
 it is very important that especial care be taken to cover the 
 exposed bones of the neck by the surplus skin, while the 
 foetus is being brought through the passage. 
 
 It is always preferable, if possible, to remove one of 
 the fore-limbs, as it is easier, quicker, and less dangerous. 
 But decapitation must sometimes be performed, and then 
 the above instructions will be found useful. 
 
 AMPUTATION OF THE LIMBS. 
 
 When the limbs are so deviated that they cannot be 
 straightened, or when by their presence in the genital pas- 
 sage they prevent the necessary manoeuvres for the adjust- 
 ment of other parts of the foetus, then it may be necessary 
 to amputate or disarticulate one or more of the extrem- 
 ities. 
 
 AMPUTATION OF THE FORE-LIMBS. 
 
 In order to amputate a fore-limb, it must be more or 
 less advanced in the vagina, or partially beyond the vulva. 
 So that if it is still in the womb, it must be brought into the 
 
•v^08 OliSTIiTK I CS — DoM KSTICATEI) A X 1 M ALS. 
 
 canal. If both limbs are to be removed, they must be se- 
 cured b}'^ cords around the pastern in the ordinary manner 
 (See Fig. 44), the cord of the one which is to be first am- 
 putated being pulled at by two, three or four assistants, so 
 .as to draw it near, or as much beyond, the vulva as pos- 
 sible. Another assistant then keeps the lips of the vulva 
 wide apart, in order to allow the operator more rooin. A 
 circular incision is made above the fetlock — or. better still, 
 the knee, taking care not to go deeper than the skin. From 
 this incision, gliding his hand into the vagina, along the 
 outer side of the limb, the operator makes a longitudinal 
 incision, extending higher up as the leg becomes elongated 
 by the traction. 
 
 This longitudinal incision being made, the skin is sep- 
 arated from the muscles beneath, either by means of the 
 fingers or the spatula (Fig. 60) — pushing the skin up to- 
 wards the shoulder as it is detached, until at length, as the 
 leg becomes more stretched, the incision and the detached 
 skin are as high as the shoulder. The dissection being then 
 deemed sufificient, and the limb being only retained by the 
 muscles which attach it to the chest, the operator, either 
 by his hand or the crutch (Fig. 51, 52), makes pressure on 
 the foetus, while the assistants are ordered to pull ener- 
 getically at the cord on the pastern, and in a kind of jerk- 
 ing manner. Soon slight cracking sounds are heard, the 
 muscles are rupturing and giving way, and in a very short 
 time the entire limb — shoulder blade and all — is removed. 
 
 The removal of one limb usually leaves a considerable 
 space in the genital canal, and this allows delivery to be 
 completed. Sometimes, however, and particularly when 
 the head of the foetus is deviated towards the flank, it is 
 necessary to remove the other limb; and this when effected, 
 permits the head to be sought for and rectified, etc., ac- 
 cording to the requirements of the case. ^ 
 
 With the Sheep and Goat, amputation of the fore- 
 limbs of the foetus are very rarely required, though, if 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 20f 
 
 necessary, it can be eft'ected. The same remark aggljes to 
 the Bitch and Cat. ^ " ■'"' " ' ' 
 
 AMPUTATIOX OF THE HIXD-LIMBS. . 
 
 When the foetus makes a posterior p resent atiofi--(Fi^. 
 18). and a hind-Hmb appears at the vulva, it may be nec- 
 essary to amputate this limb ; or with the hind-limbs flexed 
 at the hocks (Fig. 33), and so firmly wedged in the canal 
 that they cannot be extended backwards, not yet -stlffi- 
 ciently bent to permit delivery^ — which frequently -occurs 
 in the Mare — these joints must be disarticulated. - - • 
 
 When they are flexed at the hocks, amputation is ac- 
 complished by passing a running noose (Fi^. ^2-Aj B) 
 round each leg, above the hock, and tying it firmly there; 
 Powerful traction (see Traction) made on one of the cords 
 by four or five assistants, will bring the point, of one of 
 the hocks to the vulva, the lips of which are held apart by 
 an assistant, while the operator divides the back tendons 
 and side ligaments of the joint, so as to produce complete 
 disarticulation. The lower leg is then pushed into the va- 
 gina, the other limb is amputated in the same ^ky, and 
 birth is accomplished by pulling at both cords, which re- 
 main attached to the lower end of the leg bone'. """*''. "-°'' ' 
 
 '-■■'! ids i^ ■:•.■•• 
 
 When the limbs are completely retained irt the poster- 
 ior presentation (Fig. 35), a long incision is rhade through 
 the skin and muscles behind the hip-joint; the hand re- 
 moves all the muscles around the upper part of the thigh- 
 bone, round which a cord is then fixed (Fig. 36) and pulled 
 by two assistants, while the operator cuts through the at- " 
 taching muscles and ligaments. In this way the Joint' is 
 disarticulated, and a circular incision through the skin 
 completes the task, as traction will remove the limb. It is 
 to be remembered that it is always more difficult to ampu- 
 tate a hind-limb than a fore-limb. "- -'"--* ..-c... 
 
810 Opstktrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 DIVISION OF THE BODY OF THE FOETUS.— 
 (DETRUNCATION.) 
 
 When one-half of the body of the foetus has more or 
 less passed through the pelvic canal, and the other half is 
 retained, so that it is impossible to extract or return it, it is 
 recommended to cut the trunk in two. 
 
 If the hind-parts are retained, and the head and fore- 
 limbs are not much beyond the vulva — if so far — cords 
 should be placed on each pastern, and a head-stall on the 
 head, and slow, gradual, but strong traction exerted on 
 them, so as to expose as much of the body of the young 
 creature as possible. This done, the operator, with a sharp 
 •mbryotome (Fig. 58), incises the body in a circular man- 
 ner as close to the vulva of the mother as is convenient (the 
 Hps of the vulva being kept well away by an assistant) — 
 the incision commencing below, which allows the elonga- 
 tion of the spine; then the skin and muscles on the sides are 
 divided. When the bones of the spine are reached, the 
 embryotome is passed between them, and as close to the 
 )oins as possible ; slight pulling and twisting will then com- 
 plete the division. 
 
 It is a good plan to incise the skin at some distance in 
 front of the place where it is intended to divide the spine 
 or any bone, and to separate and push it back over the por- 
 tion of the trunk in the genital canal. When the division 
 is effected, this superfluous skin is pulled over the remain- 
 ing part and sewn together, so as to enclose the exposed 
 bones completely, thus preventing injury to the parent. 
 Then vigorous pressure is appHed to the divided end of the 
 spine of the remaining part, forcing it back within the 
 womb. Now the operator can secure the hind-pasterns 
 with cords and delivery can be easily effected. 
 
 REDUCTION OF THE CHEST AND ABDOMEN. 
 
 If the obstacle to delivery is an enlarged chest or ab- 
 domen, these parts can be reduced by opening them and 
 removing the internal organs or viscera. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals, 811 
 
 ARTIFICIAL PREMATURE BIRTH. 
 
 This is, birth effected, when the foetus has attained 
 such a stage of development as to be capable of living, but 
 before the period of normal parturition has been reached. 
 vSuch a procedure may be necessary when there is deform- 
 ity of the maternal pelvis, or tumors thereon or therein, or 
 when the mother is becoming exhausted from sustaining 
 too many foetuses. 
 
 It is estimated that the foetus would be capable of liv- 
 ing, and yet notably less in size and weight than when born 
 at full term, if removed from the Mare 20 to 40 days be- 
 fore that period; from the Cow 15 to 30 days; and from the 
 Bitch 10 to 15 days. 
 
 OPERATION.— The operator has merely to dilate the 
 neck of the womb, which has already been described in 
 treating of sterility, and rigidity of spasm of the neck of the 
 womb, also mechanical dilation of the womb (which see) ; 
 then the "water-bag" is extruded, the womb commences 
 to contract, the animal also begins to strain, and the 
 foetus is expelled. With the smaller animals the sponge 
 tent, or a long probe is preferable for dilating the neck of 
 the womb. 
 
 ATTENTION TO THE MOTHER AND OFF-SPRING 
 AFTER DIFFICULT PARTURITION. 
 
 The mother and offspring should receive the same at- 
 tention after difficult parturition as they would after nor- 
 mal parturition (which see). 
 
 With regard to the young anmial, it sometimes receives 
 slight wounds which soon heal; but fractures of bones are 
 more serious, and generally necessitate slaughter of the ani- 
 mal. If looking healthy, yet cannot get up or stand when 
 lifted up, this is in all probability owing to the strain of 
 the limbs, and passes off in the course of a few days. 
 When apparently dead, though the heart is contracting 
 rapidly and violently, place near the open door, and ad- 
 
?1,2 ( )i:sti;tkics — Domesticatfj) Aximals. 
 
 minister a small quantity of brandy, and respiration will 
 soon be established. Sometimes there is much swelling of 
 the head, especially of the tongue, which projects from the 
 mouth, making respiration very difficult. Scarification of 
 the tongue when in this condition, or leeches applied to it, 
 with turpentine or mustard rubbed on the limbs, soon 
 bring relief. 
 
 RETENTION OF THE FOETAL MEMBRANES OR 
 ENVELOPS AFTER ABORTION, NORMAL, AND 
 DIFFICULT PARTURITION— RETENTION 
 OF THE AFTER-BIRTH. 
 
 The retention of the foetal envelops, or "after-birth," 
 beyond a certain time after the expulsion of the foetus 
 from the womb, must be looked upon as serious and re- 
 quires attention. 
 
 When parturition has been normal, when the animal 
 does not appear to sufifer pain or inconvenience, when the 
 "straining" is unfrequent and slight, the appetitie good 
 and the secretion of milk established, and particularly 
 when, during a low or moderate temperature a portion of 
 the membrane protrudes beyond the vulva, then there is 
 no great reason for interference until a week, or even more, 
 has elapsed. But if, on' the contrary, the external tem-" 
 perature is high, if the labour has been difficult, the genital 
 organs irritated or abraded, and if fever, restlessness, and 
 suffering are noted, with strong and frequent straining, 
 especially if there are foul-smelling discharges from the 
 vagina, then treatment is called for, no matter whether the 
 time which has elapsed since delivery is long or short. 
 
 TREATMENT. — Manual Traction may be employed 
 when a portion of the membranes are visible or hanging 
 from the vulva. This is seized either by the hands, or by 
 means of a towel, or whisp of hay or straw, and gently 
 pulled at — particularly when the animal strains — twisting 
 it at the same time, until the whole mass is removed from 
 
Orstetkics — Domesticated A^•I.^[.\Ls. -llS 
 
 the cavity of the womb. This traction is not likely to be 
 productive of much injury to the Mare, Sow, Bitch or 
 Cat. as the adhesion of the after-birth is not great, and is 
 usually limited to a few points. With the Cow, Ew^e, and 
 Goat, however, it is not so. owang to the numerous and 
 often strong attachments of the after-birth and its fragile 
 texture, wdiich renders it easily torn if too much force be 
 emplo3-ed; if it does not give way. and the traction is ener- 
 getic, then there is risk of irritating the womb, and produc- 
 ing partial or complete inversion of the horn of the womb, 
 or even of the entire womb. Should the after-birth be torn 
 in two by immoderate traction, this may lead to greater 
 difficulty in removing what is left of it in the womb. For 
 these reasons, some practitioners discountenance this mode 
 of removing the after-birth; but there can be no doubt 
 that if the traction is moderate and judicious, the mem- 
 branes not very adherent to the interior of the womb, and 
 a good part of them beyond the mouth of womb, the opera- 
 tion is quite justifiable and will be successful. When, how- 
 ever, the resistance is marked, or the membranes begin to 
 tear, it is better to desist, and resort to the same manipula- 
 tion as recommended when the after-birth is completely 
 retained. 
 
 ■.COMPLETE RETENTION OF THE AFTER- 
 BIRTH. — After the birth of the foetus, if nothing w^hat- 
 ever is discernible externally, there is reason to surmise 
 that the after-birth is completely retained. In this case it 
 is advisable, in order to prevent imprisonment for some 
 time, through the closure of the mouth of the womb, to-in- 
 troduce the hand into the womb, and if the after-birth is 
 already partially detached, to extract it. If it remains 
 firmly adherent, however, it is better to gather as much as 
 can be seized into a single mass, carry it through the hiouth 
 of the womb into the vagina, and tying it there by a long 
 piece of cord, to leave the latter hanging outside the vulva. 
 This prevents the mouth of the womb closing, while the 
 cord will assist in effecting artificial removal at a later 
 
'21'i: Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 period, should such be required. However, by giving the 
 following recipe, manipluation will seldom be required: 
 
 Laurel Berries .... three and two-thirds drachms. 
 
 Aniseed one and two-thirds drachms. 
 
 Bicarbonate of Soda, three and two-thirds drachms. 
 
 Make an infusion by pouring two quarts of boiling 
 water over these and stirring occasionally until cooled. 
 
 DOSE. — Mare and Cow, one-half of the infusion; Ewe 
 and Sow, one-quarter; Bitch and Cat, one-sixth. Repeat 
 the dose in six hours, also on the following day, if neces- 
 sary; but, as a rule, the membranes are expelled within 
 twenty-four hours after the last dose has been given. This 
 infusion should always be given before resorting to manip- 
 ulation and force, as it has rendered excellent service, suc- 
 ceeding in 60 per cent, of cases of retention, and is general- 
 ly administered in preference to the recipe that has al- 
 ready been alluded to in treatment of Sporadic Abortion. 
 However, should the above remedy fail, then direct ex- 
 traction will be necessary. 
 
 When direct extraction should take place will depend 
 upon circumstances previously alluded to, as well as the 
 species of animal. With the Mare — an animal peculiarly 
 liable to septic infection — direct extraction of the after- 
 birth is indicated within two or three hours after delivery, 
 if it has not been expelled by this time. The injection 
 of warm water will materially facilitate the operation. 
 With the Sow, Bitch, and Cat, it is preferable to await the 
 result of the second dose of the foregoing recipe, before re- 
 sorting to direct extraction of the after-birth. With the 
 Cow, Ewe and Goat, it will generally be found that direct 
 extraction will not be successful before the third day, as in 
 these animals the after-births are too closely and firmly at- 
 tached to allow their disunion without injurious force, 
 which may bring about inversion of the womb, or haem- 
 orrhage. About the third day (if in the meantime the in- 
 fusion has failed) is generally a favorable period, as the 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 215 
 
 neck of the womb is still sufficiently relaxed to pass the 
 hand through the mouth of the womb, into the womb 
 without difficulty. 
 
 During the operation of direct extraction of the after- 
 birth, an assistant holds the tail of the animal to one side, 
 while the well oiled hand and arm of the operator are 
 passed into the vagina; if a portion of the membranes is in 
 the canal, then the operation will not be so difficult, as the 
 mouth of the womb will be more or less relaxed, while the 
 membranes will serve as a guide for the hand. When, 
 however, nothing of the envelops is to be found outside the 
 mouth of the womb, and that opening is firmly closed — as 
 happens four or six days after delivery — then it may be 
 very difficult to reach the interior of the womb. To be en- 
 abled to accomplish this (see Mechanical Means for Dilat- 
 ing the Mouth of the Womb) . When the hand reaches the 
 interior of the womb, it is pressed forward between the 
 membrane lining the womb and the outer envelop (chor- 
 ion) of the after-birth — the palm towards the after-birth — 
 separating them as it advances. This is not so very diffi- 
 cult in the Mare, but with the Ewe, Cow and Goat, the 
 tediousness of the operation will be inferred when it is 
 known that in these animals there are sometimes more 
 than a hundred after-births (cotyledons) to be detached. 
 (See Figs. 7, 8, and 9, and observe difference in formation.) 
 The hand must pass from one to another, effecting dis- 
 union as rapidly, yet carefully, as possible. Some of these 
 — the maternal after-births — may be detached from the 
 membranes, while others are still embedded in them, as it 
 were, through their foetal after-births. These foetal after- 
 births have to be enucleated; and to effect this, the after- 
 birth is gently pressed at its base between the thumb and 
 index finger, and, if necessary, the fingers are moved over 
 each other, as if removing a button from its buttonhole. 
 At times an after-birth will be met with which adheres so 
 firmly that it cannot be detached in the way just men- 
 tioned. Then the nail of the thumb or other finger must 
 
ma ( )Ksri:TRics — DoNjKSTiCATKi) Animai.s. 
 
 be gently insinuated at the border, so as to gradually raise 
 it, and pass the finger over the entire surface. The opera- 
 tor is oftentimes so greatly fatigued, that the right and 
 left hja^nd.haye to be employed alternately. When a cer- 
 tain number of after-births are detached, the portion of 
 envelops so. released is carried into the vagina and beyond 
 tbje.yuLya, where the other hand, or an assistant, seizes and 
 pulls gently on it. As the bulk of this increases by the 
 detachment of more after-births, the pulling may cease, 
 and the mass will require to be supported so as to prevent 
 tearing the membranes, or painful dragging on the body of 
 the wpmb. As the hand reaches the horn of the womb 
 (JPigS. 3 and 4) the after-births increase, and it becomes 
 difficult to reach them, because of the insufficient length 
 of the arm. Moderate traction, however, on the part just 
 detached will bring the others nearer, and facilitate the 
 task; but the traction must be judiciously managed, so as 
 to avoid tearing the membranes. If there is any likeli- 
 hood of the membranes tearing, tie them near the vulva 
 and cut away the parts beyond, and be content to await 
 ^their natural separation, generally occurring in from two 
 to five days. After the removal, or direct extraction of the 
 after-birth from any of the domesticated animals, wash 
 out the. interior of the womb with tepid water, and inject 
 tji^ fpUowing solution : 
 
 - Warm Water one pint. 
 
 Garboiie Acid thirt}'- drops. 
 
 Keeping the animal in well-lighted and properly ven- 
 tilated qua,rters, with a blanket over the body if the tem- 
 ■peratureis low, a raw linseed oil injection into the rectum, 
 if constipation threatens; and a light laxative diet, with 
 bran, oatmeal, or linseed gruel, are usually all that is nec- 
 essary. 
 
 \'(^hen the after-birth has putrefied in the womb, 
 tlarough. delay in removing it, and an abundant and foul 
 smelling discharge flows from the vulva, then the case is 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 217 
 
 .K0JI5T '.';■ ■' iCOOJ i 
 
 serious and requires instant attention. The womb must be 
 
 cleared without delay of its contents, and in order to ac- 
 complish this the hand must be passed into the womb, and 
 everything removed which it can possibly seize. Before do- 
 ing this, however, the hand and arm should be well and fre- 
 quently smeared with carbolized lard, to prevent septic in- 
 fection in the operator: if there are wounds or abrasions on 
 the hand of arm, the greatest care should be taken in this 
 respect — indeed, it is questionable whether they should be 
 introduced at all if the skin is not intact. 
 
 ■' When everything has been taken away which the hand 
 can remove, then the interior of the womb should be thor- 
 oughly cleansed by the continuous injection of tepid water 
 from a large bulb syringe (if the tube of the syringe is not 
 of sufficient length, fasten a rubber tube around the noz- 
 zle>, until the fluid comes away pertectly clear. Then in- 
 ject a three per cent, solution of permanganate of potash. 
 Should the discharge continue, this treatment should be re- 
 peated daily until it ceases : also give small doses of carbolic 
 acid. 
 
 DOSE.— CARBOLIC ACID.— Mare and Cow, 15 
 grains; Ewe and Sow. 5 grains; Bitch, half grain. Dissolve 
 and dilute in water and give as a drench twice daily as long 
 as necessary. ■"-''' "'" 
 
 The hands and afiiis of the operator should be thor- 
 oughly washed as soon as possible after the womb has been 
 emptied ; for this purpose nothing is better than carbolized 
 soap. On the slightest sensation of uneasiness in the arm, 
 Advice should be taken in regard to it, as a breaking out of 
 the skin from this cause is often a serious affair, and has 
 
 -necessitated the amputation of fingers, and even the great- 
 er portion of the arm. 
 
218 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 FLOODING AFTER DELIVERY OR AFTER ABORTION. 
 POST PARTUM HAEMORRHAGE. 
 
 The symptoms of haemorrhage after abortion or after 
 delivery are, as a rule, not very well marked unless the 
 blood passes away in fluid or clots, which is not always the 
 case. The general symptoms are: The quick, weak, run- 
 ning-down pulse, which becomes imperceptible as death 
 approaches, and the throbbing, irregular pulsations of the 
 heart; rapidly increasing prostration of the animal, with 
 the unsteady staggering gait on movement; haggard ex- 
 pression; with chilliness of the surface, cold clammy per- 
 spiration breaking out over the body; and, finally, the re- 
 cumbent position, convulsions and death. 
 
 TREATMENT.— If the after-birth has not been ex- 
 pelled, it must be removed without delay — yet as gently 
 as possible (see Retention of the After-birth) — after which 
 the womb will generally contract. If the after-birth has 
 been expelled, then with the hand clear the womb of the 
 clots of blood, wash the interior of the womb with cold 
 water injections, and, if necessary, introduce a large sponge 
 or towel (to which has been tied a long cord, the end of 
 which is to remain outside the vulva), saturated with vin- 
 egar-and-water, or a 15 per cent, solution of perchloride of 
 iron, into the vagina, or even into the womb, and allow to 
 remain for two or three hours. Should the haemorrhage 
 persist, apply mustard plasters to the chest, neck, and 
 limbs and give internally the tincture of perchloride of 
 iron. 
 
 DOSE.— TINCTURE PERCHLORIDE OF IRON. 
 Mare and Cow, one and one-half ounces; Ewe and Sow, 
 twenty drops; Bitch, ten drops; Cat, five drops. Dilute in 
 water and give as a drench. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Aximals. 219 
 
 INVERSION— PROLAPSUS OF THE WOMB AFTER 
 PARTURITION. 
 
 A displacement or kind of hernia of the womb, which 
 is partially or completely turned inside out. When the in- 
 version is partial, nothing whatever is seen externally, and 
 an exploration alone reveals the existence of the accident; 
 if more developed, the womb appears as a round tumor be- 
 tween the lips of the vulva when the animal is lying. When 
 inversion is complete, the womb has the form of an enor- 
 mous pear-shaped tumor hanging between the hind-limbs, 
 and sometimes as low as the hocks. At the very com- 
 mencement of this grave accident, the animal is uneasy 
 and anxious looking; it paws with the fore or stamps with 
 the hind-feet; switches the tail as if driving off insects; lies 
 down and gets up frequently, finding no ease in either at- 
 titude; and strains more or less energetically, thus adding 
 to the extruded mass. At first there is no perceptible fever 
 -and the animal may even eat. This state is not of long 
 duration; for soon after inversion is complete, indications 
 of fever become manifest — quickened pulse and respira- 
 tion, and an expression of pain. The straining becomes 
 more frequent and energetic ; the animal maintains the re- 
 cumbent position and soon succumbs. 
 
 TREATMENT.— The animal is made to stand if this 
 is possible, and the hind-quarters should be raised. If the 
 accident is recent — of an hour or two — the womb may be 
 returned at once; but should a longer interval have elapsed 
 it is well to empty the rectum and bladder if they are filled 
 or distended. Should the foetal membranes still be adher- 
 ent to the surface of the womb — wholly or partially — they 
 must be carefully removed. Also torn or gangrenous por- 
 tions of mucous membrane are to be removed with the 
 knife or scissors. This done, the womb should be cleansed 
 from matters adhering to its surface — such as litter, mud, 
 dirt, filth, or blood — by placing it into a large vessel of 
 cold water, to which has been added a tablespoonful of 
 
2?f> OnsTpyiRics — l)o.Mi:sTic.\TiiD Animals. 
 
 boric acid, allowing tlie organ to remain in it as long as ten 
 minutes. This will also help to diminish its size. 
 
 When complete inversion has taken place, one assist- 
 ant should be placed at the head of the animal, another at 
 each side to steady it. The womb must be placed on a 
 cloth or sheet in two or three folds and well moistened, the 
 ends being held by two assistants at the croup, so that the 
 organ may be Hfted as high as the vulva. vShould the ani- 
 mal strain very severely and continuously, it is useful to 
 constrain the chest as much as possible by a girth. It may 
 even be necessary to give a draught of chloral. 
 
 DOSE OF CHLORAL.— Marc and Cow. one ounce; 
 Ewe and Sow, one drachm; Bitch and Cat, five grains. 
 
 Now, the best method undoubtedly is, to return first 
 the parts of the organ nearest the vulva, and not act direct- 
 ly on the body of the womb until the greater portion has 
 been replaced in the pelvis. To accomplish this, the opera- 
 tor gently presses with open hands at each side on the parts 
 close to the vulvar opening, in order to force them gradual- 
 ly into it. By acting in this way with care and patience, 
 and preventing, as well as he can, the expulsion of those 
 portions he has already reduced, the womb by degrees be- 
 comes diminished. After two-thirds or three-fourths of 
 the total mass has been carried into the pelvic cavity; for 
 it is then more expeditious, and quite as safe, to proceed in 
 the same manner as if only partial inversion had occurrred; 
 that is, to apply the closed fist to the extremity of the 
 womb, or tumor, as it is more properly called, and push it 
 directly into the vagina and abdomen. In some instances 
 it will be found that, towards the termination of reduction, 
 the organ itself returns to its normal position, and often 
 ■quite suddenly, as if it had been thrown forward by a 
 spring. Sometimes it is most useful to have an assistant 
 pressing on the extremity of the womb, while the operator 
 manipulates near the vulva. 
 
 At all times great care is necessary in exerting the 
 
Or.sTi:TRics — Domksticated Animals. 221 
 
 pressure, which should noi be appHed while the animal is 
 straining. During expulsive efforts the operator must be 
 content to wait, merely keeping the parts where he has car- 
 ried them, until the straining has ceased. The presstire 
 must be steady and well directed, so as not to bruise or lac- 
 erate the womb. When a portion is got within the vulva, 
 it is held there by one hand, while the other manipulates 
 the next part to be returned. At this time the pad or the 
 cup-shaped pessary (Figs. G3, 64) will aid the operator; the 
 round end is applied to the body of the womb, and pres- , 
 sure is made at the other end of the instrument by the .' 
 chest or abdomen of the operator, whose hands are thus at 
 liberty to direct the expelled parts into the vagina. When 
 the womb has been returned to the abdominal cavity, ' 
 should straining continue, it is then essential that the han€t% 
 of the operator should explore the interior of the wombf as \ 
 it sometimes happens that one of the horns remains^uf^d. v;' 
 in itself to a certain extent, causing renewed straining, and 
 in all probability bring about rein version. It is generally 
 advisable to keep the hand in the womb for a short time 
 until the womb begins to contract freely; if this is not done, 
 the organ may again become inverted. 
 
 With the smaller animals, replacing the womb, is ren- 
 dered difficult because of the pelvis not admitting the ■ 
 hand; and with some of them, and particularly the Sow, 
 replacing of the prolapsed horn of the womb is often a seri- 
 ous matter. The horn must be replaced in the manner al- 
 ready indicated, the finger, or even a tallow candle, being 
 employed to adjust them; then the body of the womb 
 should follow; a small pessary with a handle may be used 
 to complete the operation. (See pessaries.) 
 
 It should be observed that replacement of the womb 
 has been effected in large and small animals by elevating 
 the hind-quarters until they are almost vertical, the weight 
 of the womb, with careful manipulation on the part of the 
 operator, carrying it down to its normal situation. 
 
322 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 MECHANICAL MEANS FOR THE RETENTION 
 OF THE WOMB AFTER IT HAS BEEN REPLACED. 
 — After the womb has been properly replaced in the ab- 
 dominal cavity, it will be quite necessary to apply some 
 means to retain it in position, thereby avoiding reinversion 
 ©f the organ. This precaution must be observed, no mat- 
 ter how quickly the animal manifest improvement. 
 
 After slight or PARTIAL INVERSION of the WOMB, 
 the pessary is usually all that will be required. Either of 
 the following described pessaries will be very beneficial for 
 this purpose. The dimensions given will be for the Mare 
 and Cow; for the smaller animals they must be made in 
 proportion to their size. 
 
 Fig. 63. 
 PAD PESSARY. 
 
 PAD PESSARY (Fig. 63) is a round piece of wood, 
 from twenty to twenty-five inches in length, with a hole in 
 one end. through which passes a loop of strong cord six to 
 eight inches long; at the other end is a round pad, three or 
 four inches in diameter, composed of tow or rags, covered 
 by a piece of soft cloth or oiled silk, and firmly tied to the 
 stalk by a piece of twine fixed in a small circular groove 
 therein. In using this pessary, the pad is placed in oil or 
 melted lard until it becomes thoroughly saturated; it is 
 then carefully introduced into the vagina, placed against 
 the neck of the womb, and cords from each side of the loop 
 at the other end, attached to a surcingle round the chest. 
 keep it firmly in its place. 
 
 RING PESSARY (Fig. 64) is composed of a wooden 
 or iron ring, about wo and one-half inches in diameter, and 
 of a strong wooden stem about twenty inches in length, 
 cleft in two as far as the middle, where it is tied by a piece 
 of twine. The ends of the two branches are firmly tenoned 
 
Obstetrics — Dom esticated Animals. 
 
 323 
 
 in the mortises of the ring; and the other end of the stalk 
 (B) is flat, and passes through the central opening of a 
 transverse piece (T T), which is about eight inches long, 
 and has at each end a small block (O O), to prevent the 
 
 Fig. 64. 
 RING PESSARY 
 
 cords from slipping off. When required for use, the ring is 
 wrapped in a narrow piece of fine linen, which is rolled 
 round it in a uniform manner, so that it may not irritate 
 the neck of the womb, with which it has to come in contact. 
 This part is well oiled, and being passed through the va- 
 gina, is so placed against the womb that the neck of the 
 
^84 
 
 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 womb will be in the middle of the ring. It is secured by 
 means of cords or straps at the end of the transverse por- 
 tion, in a similar manner to the pad pessary. 
 
 CUP-AND-BALL PESSARY (Fig. Go) is composed of 
 a round iron or steel ring (A A), about two and one-half 
 
 Fig.m..l,. 
 CUP-AND-BALL PESSARY. 
 
 inciies in diameter; from this arises three stalks (B B B); 
 these unite about six or seven inches from the ring into a 
 single stalk (T T), which is screwed from a little beyond 
 this union to the end. On this screwed portion moves a 
 transverse piece (C C), by its middle opening or female 
 screw (E) ; this piece has openings (G G) at its extremities 
 in which are to be fastened straps or cords. To use it, the 
 ring and the three branches are dipped in melted wax, then 
 cooled, and again and again dipped and cooled, until the 
 
OBSTETRICS — Domesticated Animals. 225 
 
 instrumentl^has acquired a sufficient volume, and the mid- 
 dle of the ring is reduced to about one and one-half inches. 
 This prevents it injuring the genital organs, when it is to be 
 
 Fig. 66. 
 LOOP OF ROPE TRUSS WHICH EXTENDS AROUND THE 
 
 VULVA. ,-; 
 
 Fig. 67. 
 ROPE TRUSS APPLIED. 
 
 applied 'exactly in the same manner as the preceding pes- 
 sary — the neck of the womb being in the center of the ring. 
 
 After COMPLETE INVERSION of the WOMB the 
 truss is to be adopted and is preferred to any other method 
 for the retention of the womb in its normal position. 
 
 ROPE TRUSS. — The most useful and readily made 
 
226 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 trusses are composed of light rope or thick cord — some- 
 thing like a clothes-line, about thirty feet long, and a leath- 
 er strap which buckles around the neck. In order to apply 
 the bandage, the neck-strap or collar is first to be put on; 
 the cord is then to be doubled in equal parts and put 
 across the back, behind the withers, so that each portion 
 may fall behind the shoulders, to be passed under the chest 
 In front of the chest, the two portions are crossed, the left 
 passing to the right and the right to the left. Each side is 
 
 Fig. 68. 
 LEATHER TRUSS APPLIED. 
 
 carried through the collar, and back over the front of the 
 shoulder, at the top of which both are tied in a simple knot, 
 so as to be easily untied when required. At ten or twelve 
 inches from this, a firmer knot is tied, then several others 
 beyond it towards the loins — according to the length of the 
 animal — and at nearly equal distances as far as the root of 
 the tail, where a sipiple knot is tied. The cords are then 
 united by a loop in such a manner that an oval space (a, 
 Fig. 66) sufficient to admit the vulva, and compress it lat- 
 erally, is formed — the lower angle of the vulva being left 
 free, to allow the escape of urine, and discharges from the 
 womb, should there be any. The loop should be wrapped 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 227 
 
 in tow or cloth, to prevent chafing to the parts under the 
 tail. The cords are now carried between the hind-legs, 
 brought up by the flank towards the loins on each side, and 
 tied over the back to one of the loops there, as shown in 
 Fig. 67. This truss can be made as easy or tight as neces- 
 sary. The simplicity and usefulness of this truss are to be ' 
 recommended. 
 
 LEATHER TRUSS.— A very efficient and useful truss 
 is that made of a piece of stout leather, with a round open- 
 ing in it above, corresponding with the anus, and an oblong 
 opening beneath this, through which the vulva passes. 
 The leather is so shaped as to embrace and lie close to the 
 root of the tail and between the buttocks, extending for 
 some distance below the vulva, as in Fig. 68. It is main- 
 tained in position by four long leather straps — two above 
 and two below — which pass on each side to a surcingle 
 around the chest, which may again be attached to a collar 
 or breast strap, should the straining be violent. 
 
 AFTER TREATMENT.— The animal should stand 
 with the hind parts well raised, and it ought not to be al- 
 lowed to lie down for a day or so. A weak solution of boric- 
 acid should be injected into the cavity of the womb once a 
 day for two or three days. Great attention should be paid 
 to the diet : For the first day, only oatmeal gruel with bar- 
 ley water — both tepid — should be allowed in small, but fre- 
 quent quantities. For some days, easily digested, sloppy 
 food should be given, though the quantity should not be 
 large at any time until all danger is passed. Should there 
 be a tendency to constipation, soap-and- water injectionss 
 mav be administered. 
 
228 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 FALL OR INVERSION OF THE VAGINA AFTER PAR- 
 TURITION. 
 
 Inversion, Prolapsus, or Fall of the Vagina, is a hernia 
 of this part through the vulvar opening, analogous to in- 
 version of the womb, and with which it may be complica- 
 ted. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. — The chief symptoms of this accident 
 is the presence of a tumor protruding from between the 
 lips of the vulva, and which may hang for some distance 
 below that opening. In this respect it resembles inversion 
 of the womb, though the differences are otherwise very 
 marked. In the majority of cases the tumor is most vol- 
 uminous when the animal is lying, and can then be best 
 examined. It is circular in outline, varies in size from that 
 of an apple to the dimensions of a large melon, and is not 
 unlike a sausage in shape; the surface is smooth. 
 
 TREATMENT.— The cleansing, replacing of the parts 
 in the cavity, mechanical appliances, and care of the 
 animal is the same as that for inversion of the womb 
 (which see). 
 
 RUPTURE OF THE WOMB AFTER PARTURITION. 
 
 It is somewhat remarkable that laceration or rupture 
 of the womb at this time is far from being serious. 
 
 TREATMENT. — Beyond the cleansing of the lacerat- 
 ed part with a three per cent, solution of permanganate of 
 potassium, little more has to be observed. Some author- 
 ities have closed the rent by stitches; but very many have 
 not, and the termination has been as favorable in the one 
 series of cases as the other. Unless the rupture is on the 
 lower wall of the womb, stitches are at least superfluous. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 229 
 
 RUPTURE OF THE VAGINA. 
 
 THE SYMPTOMS of injury to the vagina and neigh- 
 boring organs will vary with their nature and extent. 
 Much constitutional disturbance is generally only mani- 
 fested when the rupture is serious, or when poisonous in- 
 fection has taken place. Then acute fever, infiltration, 
 and other grave symptoms may supervene. 
 
 TREATMENT. — When rupture of the vagina is re- 
 cognized during parturition, delivery should be effected as 
 speedily as possible, and with every care, in order to pre- 
 vent the laceration extending and the foetus or some part 
 ef the foetus, passing into it, which undoubtedly would 
 result in injury to the adjoining organs. ^The foetal mem- 
 branes should also be extracted as soon as possible. If 
 there is haemorrhage or bleeding from the vagina, this may 
 be suppressed by injections of cold water; should this fail 
 to stop the bleeding, then a sponge or a cloth soaked in 
 cold water, to which has been added a small portion of 
 perchloride of iron, should be placed in the canal. Should 
 there be hernia of the bladder or intestines, these must be 
 replaced at once. 
 
 In all cases of wounds, abrasions, or rupture of the 
 vagina, every precaution should be observed with a view 
 to the prevention of poisonous infection. With this 
 object the greatest cleanliness must be observed, all de- 
 composing matters, or those likely to decompose, should, 
 if possible, be scrupulously removed, and injections or 
 "swabbings" of a three per cent, solution of permanganate 
 of potassium should be administered. A solution of car- 
 bolic acid (20 drops of the acid to one pint of water) will 
 be as serviceable. 
 
230 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 RUPTURE OF THE PERINAEUM 
 
 This accident is usually caused by malposition of the 
 foetus. The laceration sometimes extends from the upper 
 angle of the vulva to the anus, in which case the poor ani- 
 mal often presents a painful and repulsive spectacle; the 
 dung and flatus escape involuntarily. 
 
 TREATMENT.— If the bleeding is sHght, cold water 
 may check it; but if severe, the water must have perchlo- 
 ride of iron added to it. The lacerated margins, if much 
 torn, must be freed from shreds which are likely to lose, or 
 have already lost their vitality. They must then be 
 brought together by stitches — either of metal, carbolized 
 silk, or cat-gut. Cold-water dressings may then be ap- 
 plied; or carboHzed glycerine may be employed. The 
 parts must be kept as clean as possible, and the animal 
 not disturbrd or allowed to lie down until union has been 
 effected. With this object a narrow stall is to be pre- 
 ferred. Raw linseed oil should be injected into the rectum 
 twice daily to keep the dung soft. vSloppy food should be 
 given as diet. 
 
 INFLAMMATION OF THE VAGINA 
 
 When this inflammation takes place after parturition 
 it is generally due to protracted and laborious delivery. 
 In very exceptional instances, it may be due to the action 
 of cold on the skin, or drinking of very cold water. It 
 may lead to, or be complicated with, ulceration, gangrene, 
 or mortification to a greater or less extent. 
 
 SYMPTOMS.— The Hps of the vulva and the lining 
 membrane of tlie vagina are more or less swollen, the latter 
 being of a bright-red, brown, or livid hue; urination is gen- 
 erally painful and difficult, constipation is often present, 
 and there is sometimes much itching in the region of the 
 vulva, which is indicated by the continued attempts the 
 animal makes to rub that part. When the inflammation 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. ^■Sl 
 
 has existed for one or two days, the mucus secreted by the 
 membranes is greatly increased in quantity ; it is at first a 
 limpid fluid, sometimes streaked with blood; then it grad- 
 ually becomes thicker and purulent, soiling the tail, thighs, 
 and hocks, sometimes causing removal of the hair and 
 irritating the skin of those parts. 
 
 TREATMENT. — Cleanhness, attention to diet, and 
 injections of cold or tepid water into the vagina, generally 
 succeed in subduing the inflammation; if the injections in- 
 duce straining they should only be administered in small 
 quantity. When, however, there is any tendency t» 
 ulceration, or even abrasions, carbolic acid should be 
 added to the injection in the proportion of 20 drops of the 
 acid to a pint of water. 
 
 WHITES (LEUCORRHOEA.) 
 
 Leucorrhoea is chronic inflammation of the vagina. 
 When this disease is present there is a loss of condition and 
 appetite. There is a white, glutinous discharge, which 
 may be odorless or it may be very foul-smelling. Fecun- 
 dation does not take place so readily, and if it does occur,, 
 the chances are that the full period of pregnancy will not 
 be reached. 
 
 TREATMENT.— The treatment will consist of injec- 
 tions, the same as recommended in inflammation of the 
 Vagina (which see). In addition to this it will be neces- 
 sary to tone the condition of the animal with good food, t» 
 which has been added the following tonic: 
 
 Milk of Sulphur two ounces. 
 
 Nitrate of Potassium two ounces. 
 
 Foenugreek two ounces. 
 
 Armenian Bole one ounce. 
 
 Powdered Aniseed one ounce. 
 
 Gentian half ounce. 
 
 Ginger half ounce. 
 
?32 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 Mix thoroughly, and give once daily mixed in the food 
 the following dose: Mare and Cow, one ounce; Sheep and 
 Sow, two drachms; Bitch, half drachm. 
 
 If the discharge continues after two or three weeks' 
 treatment, it may be found useful to apply a blister to the 
 loins, croup, or thighs. 
 
 INFLAMMATION OF THE WOMB (Metritis), 
 AND PARTURIENT FEVER. 
 
 Inflammation of the womb, with, or without blood- 
 poisoning (parturient septicaemia), may ensue very soon 
 after delivery — rarely before the second day with the Cow 
 and Ewe, and seldom beyond the eighth day. With the 
 Mare, Bitch, Goat, Sow, and Cat it may appear later. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. — Immediately after parturition the ani- 
 mal may appear to have quite recovered from the effects of 
 that act. When simple inflammation of the womb com- 
 mences to take place, the vulva becomes swollen, with heat 
 and redness of the vagina, fever, straining, difficulty in 
 urination, diminution or suppression of the milk secretion, 
 poor appetite and dullness. With, and sometimes with- 
 out, treatment, this condition passes off in a few days. 
 
 Should the inflammation increase, which it frequently 
 does, and especially if the womb has received any wounds, 
 the same smyptoms are observable, but more marked. 
 The animal grinds its teeth, and betrays the existence of 
 colicky pains by lying down and getting up, stamping, 
 striking at the belly and turning the head towards the 
 flanks, and making more or less energetic expulsive efforts. 
 Signs of pain or lameness in the hind-limbs become ap- 
 parent. When the womb is more inflamed the larger 
 animals do not lie down, because of the increased pain 
 produced by pressure on the abdomen, only lying down 
 as death approaches, or when the hind-quarters become 
 paralyzed. The smaller animals, however, maintain the 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 333 
 
 recumbent position. At first, the discharge from the 
 vagina is thin; then it becomes gradually thicker and 
 more abundant. Examination of the vagina discovers it 
 to be very hot and sensitive, particularly towards the 
 neck of the womb. A very marked symptom is swelling 
 of the vulva, the lips of which are separated. 
 
 This is a serious disease and frequently terminates in 
 death in from two to six days. Therefore, it should re- 
 ceive immediate attention as soon as it makes its appear- 
 ance. 
 
 TREATMENT. — First, remove from the womb and 
 vagina any putrid matters they may contain; then the 
 genital canal should be thoroughly cleansed by injections 
 of warm water (80° to 100° Fahr.), and the wounds 
 dressed with the following solution: 
 
 Salycilic Acid one ounce. 
 
 Spirits of Wine one pint. 
 
 Warm Water one and one-half pints. 
 
 Mix and apply to the wounds by means of a very soft 
 brush or feather. 
 
 After the interior of the womb has been cleansed by 
 injections of warm water, an injection into the vagina of 
 two quarts of warm water to which has been added three 
 drachms of carbolic acid should be administered every day. 
 and the wounds, if accessible, dressed at the same time 
 with the above solution of salycilic acid. 
 
 The external treatment must be hot fomentations and 
 mustard plasters to the surface of the abdomen. The 
 smaller animals may have linseed-meal poultices applied. 
 
 Salycilic acid must be administered internally to neu- 
 tralize the action of the poisonous matters in the blood and 
 tissues. 
 
 DOSE. — Salycilic Acid. Mare and Cow, 2 drachms; 
 Ewe, 1 drachm; Sow, one-half drachm; Bitch and Cat, 5 
 grains. To be given in water every four hours. The 
 food should be of a laxative and sloppy nature. 
 
^34 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 The bowels must be kept free by the administration 
 of raw Hnseed oil, either internally or by injection, or both 
 if necessary. When recovery is taking place, good food 
 and a good tonic must be allowed. (For tonic see Leu- 
 corrhoea, or Whites.) 
 
 No person who has been handling a creature suffering 
 from inflammation of the womb or any decomposing ani- 
 mal matter, should be allowed to assist animals in parturi- 
 tion; and the same rule ought to be observed with regard 
 to instruments and obstetrical appliances, unless they have 
 been thoroughly cleansed. When a case of this inflam- 
 mation occurs where there are other pregnant animals, or 
 animals which have quite recently brought forth, these 
 should be immediately removed. 
 
 MILK FEVER (PARTURIENT APOPLEXY.) 
 
 This disease is seen in all breeds of cattle and generally 
 attacks Cows which give large quantities of rich milk. It 
 is seldom seen during the first, second, or third calving 
 period, but usually from that time on, and almost always 
 in cows that are highly fed and in good flesh. It usually 
 occurs within three days after calving, and is very fatal — 
 fully one-half of those attacked die. If recovery does 
 result great care should be taken at the next time of 
 calving, as a recurrence of the attack at that time fre- 
 quently and generally proves fatal. 
 
 SYMPTOMS.— Usually between the first and third 
 day after calving, the Cow will stand around, dull and 
 stupid ; appetite, rumination, and milk will be suspended — 
 or only a slight flow of milk present ; the Cow walks as if 
 weak across the back, staggers around shaking her head; 
 as the disease advances she falls to the ground, unable to 
 rise again. She may rest in a recumbent position with her 
 head carried around to her side, or she may lie stretched 
 out upon her side, with her head lying upon the grouud. 
 Sometimes the head is shaken viciously from side to side, 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 335 
 
 endangering those about her and being Hable to break off 
 her horns. Occasionally, but not often, a few kicks witk 
 the feet are given. The eyes become glassy and staring, 
 soon growing insensible to the touch, with total blindness. 
 Sometimes the eye-lids will quiver and jerk for some time. 
 The pulse, at first full and soft, later on becomes slower 
 and feebler, gradually becoming almost imperceptible. 
 The breathing, at first almost normal, becomes generally 
 slower, prolonged and difficult; and frequently a rattling 
 sound is heard within the wind-pipe. At the commence- 
 ment of the attack, the temperature will range from 103 
 to 104 degrees Fahr., and as the disease progresses will 
 gradually sink to 3 or 4 degrees below normal. At first 
 the bowels may appear loose, but soon become constipat- 
 ed, and the urine is usually retained within the bladder. 
 TREATMENT. — It is the desire to impress upon the 
 reader's mind that to be successful in the treatment of 
 parturient apoplexy demands persistent attendance until 
 death actually occurs. There have been cases, where the 
 owner considered treatment useless and momentarily- 
 looked for death, make complete recovery. If the patient 
 is seen when the pulse is still full and strong, bleed to the 
 amount of six quarts; but if the pulse is weak and the 
 animal down, with the eyes insensible to light, do not 
 bleed. As soon as possible give the following physic: 
 
 Epsom Salt twenty ounces. 
 
 Calomel one drachm. 
 
 Croton Oil twenty drops. 
 
 Warm Beer one-half gallon. 
 
 Mix. 
 
 If the animal has become unconscious, give very slow- 
 ly, as it is liable to run down the wind pipe. Then draw 
 away the urine by means of a catheter, or by slipping the 
 finger, well oiled, into the neck of the bladder, the urine 
 will frequently be passed. Give injections of warm water 
 «very hour. Constantly apply cloths wrung out of hot 
 
336 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 water over the loins and apply ice-cold water or ice bags 
 to the head, as the brain is badly congested. Frequently 
 draw away the milk and keep the body and limbs warm, 
 by friction and blankets; keep the animal in a position as 
 nearly erect as possible, and give the proper amount of the 
 following recipe every two hours until recovery begins, 
 when the time should be lenghtened: 
 
 Aromatic Spirits of Ammonia eight ounces. 
 
 Spirits Nitrous Ether .four ounces. 
 
 Tincture Nux Vomica two ounces. 
 
 Tincture Gentian six ounces. 
 
 Mix. 
 
 Give four ounces in a quart of warm beer or water, or 
 a half pint of hot whisky every two hours. This may seem 
 like heavy dosing with stimulants, but it is the proper 
 thing to do. Should the physic operate and the animal 
 begin to appear conscious of her surroundings, feed on soft 
 and sloppy diet, until convalescence has been established. 
 Prevention is the best and safest treatment for parturient 
 apoplexy. When the animal is known to be a heavy 
 milker and is fleshy or plethoric in condition, she should be 
 fed previous to calving, on a laxative diet — as linseed cake, 
 bran mash, etc. — and but sparingly. The milk should be 
 drawn away for ten days previous to calving; immediately 
 after calving give the following drench: 
 
 Epsom Salt twelve ounces. 
 
 Glauber's Salt six ounces. 
 
 Ginger one-half ounce. 
 
 Foenugreek one-half ounce. 
 
 Water one-half gallon. 
 
 Mix. 
 
 If the above directions are followed parturient apo- 
 plexy will be prevented. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 237 
 
 INFLAMMATION OF THE UDDER 
 
 The animal does not at first appear to be much af- 
 fected, and the swollen gland or glands are evidently not 
 very painful. The skin is tense and shining, though per- 
 haps not reddened; the teat is greatly enlarged, hard, and 
 sometimes somewhat sensitive to manipulation. The 
 deeper tissue of the gland is found to be somewhat harder, 
 and towards the teat rather lumpy. With careful and 
 frequent milking, and attention to the diet and hygiene, 
 complete recovery may take place in three or four days. 
 If neglected, however, or mismanaged in treatment, the 
 inflammation may become more serious and attack the 
 milk vesicles. Then the secretion of milk is greatly dim- 
 inished in the gland, and what is withdrawn, contains 
 mucus, pus, and clots. If this catarrhal condition is per- 
 mitted to continue, milk abscesses form within the udder; 
 death may result from the absorption of this poison int» 
 the blood or from gangrene. 
 
 TREATMEXT.— However slight the attack or mild 
 the form of inflammation of the udder may be, in view of 
 the serious consequences which it may entail, treatment 
 should be prompt and judicious; as in two or three days 
 alterations may be produced in the secretory apparatus of 
 the gland which medical skill may be unable to amend. 
 
 When the udder or quarter is simply engorged witk 
 milk, nothing more has to be done than to thoroughly re- 
 move this fluid. This, of course, cannot be accomplished 
 at once, and it may be necessary to milk the animal several 
 times during the day — five or six times. When this cause* 
 pain, the milking should be performed gently; and if pres- 
 sure on the teat causes so much disturbance that the milk 
 cannot be withdrawn by hand, then the teat syphon (Fig. 
 69), well oiled, should be passed into the milk-duct (see 
 Fig. 2) ; should it be necessary to retain it there, this caa 
 be effected by a cord or tape being passed through the 
 rings and tied over the animal's loins. In all cases in 
 
238 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 which hand milking causes pain, and is likely to increase 
 the evil it is intended to avert, the teat syphon should be- 
 resorted to. The progeny should only be allowed access 
 to the healthy quarters of the udder. Applications of 
 Vinegar to the udder is highly recommended to allay the 
 pain. When the pain has diminished, it is generally ad- 
 visable to allow the progeny to withdraw the milk. The 
 animal should not be exposed to cold or draughts. 
 
 If lumps or coagula be detected, they must be removed, 
 by moving the lumps up and down, when possible, by care- 
 ful and gentle pressure. When they can be easily dis- 
 placed, they may then be pushed down to the end of the 
 
 Fig. 69. 
 RING TEAT-SYPHON. 
 
 teat, and passed through. A lump as large as a nut has 
 been extracted from the Cow in this manner. Should the 
 lump prove to be too large to remove in this way, it may 
 be necessary to introduce a sound carefully into the canal, 
 in order to break it up. When the mass is very large and 
 dense it may be necessary to incise the teat before it can be 
 removed. Nothing can equal the success of the follou-ing 
 lotion to prevent the formation of these lumps in the ud- 
 der. This lotion has obtained more success than aay 
 other, and should be applied to the udder as soon as there 
 are any indications of inflammation of that organ. Al- 
 though it will be very beneficial if applied any time before 
 the inflammation has attained its greatest intensity: 
 
 Potash one ounce. 
 
 Water two ounces. 
 
 Olive Oil five ounces. 
 
 These are to be well mixed, and then four or five ounces 
 more water are to be added. Often, after five or six hours, 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 239 
 
 during which nothing could be drawn from the teat except 
 a small quantity of thin, curdled milk, there is obtained a 
 whitish-yellow fluid, more like pus than milk, which is a 
 favorable sign. Should abscesses form they must be 
 opened in the usual manner. Retention of the milk is 
 sometimes due to obliteration of the milk canal (which 
 see.) 
 
 As a preventative measure when infection is appre- 
 hended — as in retention of the after-birth, etc. — it is ad- 
 visable to inject a two and one-half per cent, solution of 
 carbolic acid up the teat by means of a glass syringe, 
 always after milking; the solution should be at a tem- 
 perature of 95 degrees Fahr. 
 
 ABSENCE OF MILK. (AGALACTIA ) 
 
 Absence of milk is more frequently met with in the 
 Mare and Cow. In some instances the milk gradually ap- 
 pears some time after parturition, but in the majority of 
 cases it is either not produced at all, or only in very small 
 quantity. This condition is very unfortunats for the 
 progeny, which will suffer from hunger if not observed, 
 and must either be artificially reared, or put to another 
 animal to be suckled. 
 
 CAUSES. — This may be due to some chronic disease 
 of the udder; but it is generally the result of exhaustion 
 following disease; severe labour; insufficient food, either 
 during or immediately after pregnancy; natural debility, 
 emaciation, etc. 
 
 TREATMENT. — The treatment of this condition fre- 
 quently proves unsuccessful. It must chiefly consist in 
 giving good food to which has been added the proper- 
 quantity of the following recipe : 
 
 Powdered Gentian one pound. 
 
 Powdered Aniseed one pound. 
 
 Mix thoroughly. 
 
■240 Ohstktrics — Dom esticati:ij Animals. 
 
 DOSE. — Mare and Cow, two ounces; Ewe and Sow, 
 two drachms; Bitch and Cat, ten grains. Give in the food 
 three times a day, or mix with water and give as a drench. 
 It is well to remember that aniseed or fennel-seed is a great 
 stimulant to the secretory functions of the udder. 
 
 The teats should be frequently stripped and the udder 
 rubbed with brandy. In a serious case in which the udder 
 was rubbed with brandy, friction applied to the abdomen, 
 and warm milk and fennel-seeds administered internally, 
 in two days the milk began to appear. 
 
 DOSE. — Fennel-seeds. — Mare and Cow, one and one- 
 half ounces; Ewe and Sow, two drachms; Bitch, fifteen 
 grains; Cat, ten grains. 
 
 CRACKS OR FISSURES IN THE TEATS. 
 
 These should not be neglected, however slight they 
 may appear to be. 
 
 TREATMENT.— There is nothing better than clean- 
 liness and the application of carbolized glycerine (1 to 20) 
 for this trouble. The progeny must not be allowed access 
 to the teat until it is thoroughly healed. 
 
 OBLITERATION OF THE MILK DUCT. 
 
 If the udder becomes distended immediately before or 
 after parturition, but no milk issues from the teat or teats, 
 it is an indication of obliteration or obstruction of the milk 
 canal. 
 
 TREATMENT.— If the obstruction is due merely to 
 the formation of skin over the opening, a small incision 
 should be made in two directions in the skin where the 
 opening should be, with a sharp pointed knife or lancet. 
 To prevent the wound closing, a small bougie is intro- 
 duced into the canal for four or five days until the wound 
 has healed; it should only be taken out at milking-time. 
 If the obstruction is immediately within the opening, a 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. ^ii 
 
 fine trocar or stocking-needle, previously cleaned in boiling 
 water and dipped in carbolic acid solution, must be passed 
 into it and through the obstruction, when the milk will 
 flow. If the canal is only partly obstructed, and particu- 
 larly if a wart is the cause of the obstruction. Fig. 70 will 
 be very beneficial in removing the obstruction. This 
 sound is an iron wire, having a ring at one end, and at the 
 other a steel cone screwed to it. This cone has a very 
 
 Fig. 70. 
 
 PERFORATING SOUND. 
 
 Half the Natural Size. 
 
 sharp point, and both sides have cutting edges at the base 
 or widest part. It is passed into the opening of the teat, 
 pushed through the obstacle, and then gently turned round 
 from side to side until no resistance is felt. Then it is 
 withdrawn, and the bougie or teat-syphon (Fig. 69), or a 
 piece of catgut, introduced. 
 
 In all cutting operations on the teat, every precaution. 
 must be adopted for the prevention of inflammation; and 
 this chiefly consists in cleaning all instruments in a solu- 
 tion of carbolic acid before using them. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 248 
 
 Diseases and Abnormalities of 
 the Young Animal 
 
 SUFFOCATION (ASPHYXIA) OF THE NEW-BORN 
 
 ANIMAL. 
 
 (See Suspended Animation.) 
 
 BLEEDING FROM THE NAVEL. (UMBILICAL 
 HAEMORRHAGE.) 
 
 When the bleeding is trifling and not likely to con- 
 tinue long, little, if anything, requires to be done; but 
 when it is copious and continuous, active and prompt 
 treatment must be adopted. 
 
 TREATMENT. — If the cord is extremely short, alum, 
 tannic acid or the perchloride of iron should be applied to 
 the navel. Should these fail the actual cautery must be 
 applied. If. however, the cord is sufficiently long, it is 
 better to tie it with a Hgature ; this will check the bleeding, 
 and the cord will slough away in four or five days. In 
 applying the ligature, the operator must be careful not to 
 include a portion of the intestine within it, and by squeez- 
 ing the cord with the fingers, as much serum should be got 
 rid of as possible. Artificial respiration is required when 
 there is suspended animation (which see), and this alone 
 often causes the haemorrhage to cease. 
 
•j^-i Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 FLOW OF URINE FROM THE NAVEL— PERSISTENCE 
 OF THE URACHUS. 
 
 The Urachus is a canal which passes through the um- 
 bilical or navel ring, and during foetal life communicates 
 with the bladder, from which it conveys the urine into the 
 ailantoid sac (Fig. 7. Also read Navel Cord). After 
 ibirth this canal is obliterated, its walls become a thin cord, 
 and the bladder is retracted within the pelvic cavity, the 
 urine then passing through the uretha. 
 
 TREATMENT. — In some cases scarcely anytreatment 
 'is necessary, the escape of urine ceasing in a few days after 
 ibirth; and when treatment is demanded, a cure can gen- 
 erally be effected in a short time. 
 
 When the urachus protrudes sufficiently from the um- 
 Ibiiicai ring, a ligature may be fastened securely around it. 
 fff it is too short to be tied by a ligature, it must be secured 
 tby a curved needle. The animal is thrown on its left side, 
 and the operator, holding the threaded needle in his right 
 'hand, seizes the urachus — which is covered by the skin — 
 ibetween the thumb and index-finger of the left hand, and 
 rpulls it outwards; the needle is then passed through be- 
 fhind the canal, including as little of the skin as possible, 
 and the ends tied. However, before adopting remedial 
 •measures, it is best to ascertain if the uretha is open. If 
 •it is not, an opening must be made before the urachus is 
 closed or death will result in a few days from retention of 
 the urine. 
 
 In those cases in which the urachus cannot be secured 
 'by the needle, applications of sulphate of copper may be 
 successfully employed. In very obstinate cases the actual 
 cautery must be employed. 
 
 NAVEL (UMBILICAL) HERNIA. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. — There is a round tumor situated in the 
 region of the navel, varying in size in different individuals 
 and species — from that of a pigeon's egg to a child's head. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 245 
 
 or even larger. The size also varies in the saine individual' 
 at different times, according as the digestive organs are 
 full or empty, the attitude standing or recumbent, or the 
 duration of the hernia — the older it is the larger the tumor. 
 It is usually soft, fluctuating, easily depressed by the fin- 
 ger, and as readily resuming its ordinary size and shape; 
 at first, however, it is often tense and not depressible. 
 Sometimes it has a doughy feel and fluctuates much, and' 
 at other times it is flaccid, according as the portion of- 
 intestines which it contains is empty or filled. On apply- 
 ing the open hand against the tumor, the worm-like move- 
 ments of the intestines can be ascertained. 
 
 :>-^-->^ 
 
 Fig. 71. 
 TRUSS APPLIED FOR NAVAL (UMBILICAL) HERNIA. 
 
 TREATMENT. — Hernia in young animals often dis- 
 appears spontaneously. Especially, does this frequently 
 occur, soon after the young animal has been weaned, and' 
 its diet changed from milk to other food. This is due t4> 
 the natural changes which take place in the digestive 
 apparatus at this time. 
 
 If the hernia is rapidly increasing or becoming trouble- 
 some in any way whatever, it is not advisable to wait until* 
 weaning time, as by that time the hernia might prove to be 
 very serious. Therefore it is always advisable, in a case ofv 
 hernia, to apply a truss before complications are manifest. 
 Fig. 71 is an exceedingly useful truss, and is easily con- 
 
24:6 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 structed and applied. It is constructed of two girths — one 
 of which is of canvas webbing, and passes around the 
 chest; the other, of India-rubber webbing, goes around the 
 belly — at which point it is wider — and maintains a pad 
 against the navel. This pad is a wide, but not very thick, 
 cushion, stuffed with horsehair. The girth passing around 
 the belly is kept in position by the longitudinal bands pass- 
 ing from it to the chest girth. Another strap passes from 
 around the tail over the back, through the belly girth, to 
 the chest girth, where it is attached. The straps and girth 
 should be arranged with buckle fastenings so as to allow 
 
 Fig. 72. 
 NAVEL (UMBILICAL) CLAM. 
 
 of their being shortened or lengthened to fit the animal. 
 
 Before the truss is applied, it is necessary to place the 
 animal on its back, and with the fingers carefully reduce 
 the hernia. When it has all been forced back within the 
 abdominal cavity, place the pad exactly over the navel and 
 adjust the balance of the truss as previously directed. The 
 truss should be drawn rather tight, and allowed to remain 
 on the animal for about three months. 
 
 When hernia has not received the proper treatment 
 in due time, it frequently becomes very serious. In these 
 cases the truss sometimes fails to effect a cure, and the clam 
 must be resorted to. The iron screw clam (Fig. 72) is gen- 
 erally recommended as being the most useful. One 
 branch has a long, deep groove, and into this fits a narrow 
 projecting ridge on the opposite branch. To apply the 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 247 
 
 clam the animal is placed on its back. The skin over the 
 rupture is drawn together by the fingers in a flat fold, cor- 
 responding with the central longitudinal line through the 
 abdomen (linea alba), and elevated from the parts 
 beneath. The clam is then put over the skin, as close to 
 the abdomen as possible, and the screws at the end of the 
 clam tightened. The pressure must not be too severe, or 
 the parts will drop off too soon, and possibly the intestines 
 may escape. The operation, therefore, requires to be 
 carefully watched. 
 
 When the hernia cannot be reduced, or if strangulation 
 has taken place, then it will be necessary to carefully open 
 the sac. Should adhesion have taken place between the 
 sac and the intestines, this must be broken up ; if the navel 
 ring has to be incised in order to return the membranes, 
 this may be effected by a blunt pointed knife. The inci- 
 sion should be no longer than is absolutely requisite. 
 
 With regard to the diet: Easily digested food, in small 
 quantity and frequently, should be given until the cure is 
 efiEected. 
 
 DROPSICAL SWELLING AROUND THE NAVEL. 
 (OEDEMA OF THE UMBILICUS.) 
 
 This is usually produced by laceration of the part dur- 
 ing birth, though it may also be caused by one young crea- 
 ture sucking and pulling at the remains of the navel cord 
 of another. It may also be due to chronic inflammation of 
 this part. 
 
 The accident is readily recognized; the swelling is 
 often very considerable, and always cold to the touch. It 
 often persists a long time in calves, and constitutes a grave 
 defect in young bulls, which it mechanically prevents from 
 copulating. 
 
 TREATMENT. — Cold applications and compresses 
 have been recommended in the way of treatment, as well 
 
24eS Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 as lotions of arnica, camphorated spirits of wine, prepara- 
 tions of iodine, mercury, etc. These often fail, however, 
 and it is generally better to resort to scarifications or 
 leeches at once, to be succeeded by hot fomentations. 
 When the swelling is chronic and due to a blood clot, open 
 it and remove the clot of blood. 
 
 INFLAMMATION OF THE NAVEL (UMBILICAL) 
 CORD (OMPHALITIS ) 
 
 INFLAMMATION OF THE NAVEL (the so-called 
 "navel-ill" of shepherds), is a serious accident, and often 
 terminates fatally. It consists essentially in inflammation 
 of the umbilical vein, which sooner or later involves the 
 adjoining tissues, and is often followed by suppuration and 
 purulent infection (pyaemia), which causes the death of 
 the young creature. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. — The inflammation commences soon 
 after birth. The remains of the navel cord, in the normal 
 condition quickly dries up and withers, in a few days after 
 the young animal is born. When inflamed, however, the 
 part appears to be moist, and projects from the abdomen 
 as an enlarged, compact, and hard mass, from the center of 
 which flows a small quantity of thin, unhealthy, purulent- 
 looking fluid that soils the surrounding skin. The peculiar 
 tap-like appearance of the navel cord, its density and high 
 temperature, with the discharge therefrom, will lead the 
 careful observer to recognize the existence of inflamma- 
 tion of the navel cord. 
 
 A probe can be readily passed into the umbilical vein, 
 which remains open to a considerable extent. The local 
 symptoms are often overlooked at the commencement, and 
 the first general signs of inflammation of the navel cord 
 observed are usually dullness, arched back, indifferent to 
 the teat and to surrounding objects, persistently lying down 
 fever, and hurried panting respiration when general infec- 
 tion takes place, and coagulation of blood in the lungs is 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. ^49 
 
 occurring. As the malady progresses, great prostration is 
 manifest; there is swelHng at the navel, and intense 
 pain on manipulation of that region; the eyes are dull 
 and red, the mouth very hot and dry; the pulse is so 
 small and quick as to be scarcely perceptible; the bowels 
 may be constipated and the dung scanty, or obstinate 
 diarrhoea may supervene ; the urine is greatly diminished 
 in quantity; the mucus membranes frequently assume 
 a yellowish tint; soft, fluctuating swellings, containing a 
 yellow gelatinous fluid, often appear on various parts of 
 the body; the creature refuses to suck; indications of 
 colic or inflammation of the bowels are sometimes mani- 
 fested. After this occurence, in the majority of cases, 
 death rapidly ensues. 
 
 Not infrequently the inflammation of the inner mem- 
 brane of the vein is most intense near the navel opening, 
 and the pus, instead of freely escaping, accumulates in the 
 canal to such a degree as to form a large swelling at the 
 navel ring, which might be mistaken at the first glance for 
 a hernia. When this swelling has been opened, about half 
 a pint of pus escapes in some instances. 
 
 When a fatal termination does not quickly follow aft€r 
 the serious symptoms are manifested, we may have chronic 
 morbid conditions of a purulent character set up, which are 
 characterized by inflammation of the serous membranes in 
 various parts of the body, and particularly of the joints. 
 Indeed, it is now recognized by the highest Continental 
 veterinarians, that the destructive arthritis, or "joint 
 disease" of Foals, Calves, and Lambs is attributable to 
 internal inflammation of the navel cord. Inflammation 
 of the joints — especially of the hocks — has often been pro- 
 duced by the inflammation excited through ligaturing the 
 navel cord. 
 
 CAUSES. — The causes are numerous, and may be 
 enumerated as follows: The admission of air or foreign 
 matters to the interior of the navel vessels; bruises or 
 injury to the navel, either during birth or afterwards;; 
 
:250 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 irritation of this part, either by the litter, manure, or 
 urine; the habit which certain females have of licking the 
 navel of their progeny, or of young creatures to suck the 
 remains of the navel cord of each other; rupture of the 
 cord close to, or within the abdomen; improper food given 
 to the mother; exposure to cold and wet; over-crowding 
 — it has been observed that, sometimes, of ten to fifteen 
 young animals born within a few days of each other and 
 kept together, half the number have become affected with 
 inflammation of the navel. 
 
 Another principal cause is infection. The discharge 
 from one diseased navel may afford sufficient material to 
 infect a great many newly-born animals. Not only may 
 contamination take place through actual contact with ob- 
 jects soiled or impregnated by such infective material — as 
 the secretions from the diseased navel of some young 
 animal, the secretions or expelled membranes of an animal 
 that has aborted, or a putrid after-birth which has been 
 retained after parturition — but the air itself, or flies, may 
 prove a medium for its conveyance to the navel. 
 
 When the remains of the navel cord are once fairly 
 dried and shriveled, inflammation is very seldom, if ever, 
 witnessed. 
 
 TREATMENT.— PREVENTIVE TREATMENT is 
 most important in this malady. Therefore it is well to ob- 
 serve the following precautions: Cleanliness is absolutely 
 necessary, and the young creature should be protected 
 from every possible source of poisonous (septic) infection. 
 The danger will be greatly obviated if the extremity of the 
 navel cord is dressed immediately after birth with a con- 
 centrated solution of carbolic acid, which destroys germs, 
 keeps away flies, and renders putrid matter innocuous, 
 while it quickly shrivels up the cord itself. In all cases 
 caution must be observed in applying the acid: it is to be 
 applied to the extremity of the navel cord only; and not 
 to the parts surrounding the navel. This preventive treat- 
 ment is strongly to be recommended at all times, but par- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 251 
 
 ticularly so when abortion has recentl}" occurred among 
 some of the animals. 
 
 CURATIVE TREATMENT.— At the commencement 
 it should be chiefly local, and the application most likely 
 to prove beneficial is a 5 per cent, solution of carbolic acid. 
 If the fever runs high, a 5 per cent, solution of salicylic 
 acid is preferable. These to be applied twice or thrice 
 daily for the first few^ days. If the umbilical vein is 
 readily accessible, by placing the animal on its back, either 
 of the above lotions may be introduced into it (the dis- 
 tance of nearly ten inches in the Foal or Calf; other ani- 
 mals according to the proportionate length of this vessel.) ; 
 with a fine probe wrapped round with lint. The syringe 
 used by some practitioners is not generally approved of, 
 because of the danger of injuring the portal vein. 
 
 When the inflammation is very intense, tartarized anti- 
 mony ointment should be applied. The ointment is pre- 
 pared as the following: 
 
 Tartar Emetic one-half ounce. 
 
 Lard six ounces. 
 
 Mix thoroughly and apply sufficient quantity. 
 
 When there is danger of general infection, or this has 
 already occurred, then the internal administration of the 
 salicylate of soda must be resorted to. 
 
 DOSE— SALICYLATE OF SODA.— Foal and Calf, 
 15 grains Troy; Lamb, 7 grains; Pig, 4 grains; Puppy and 
 Kitten, one-half grain. Dissolve in water and give every 
 hour. 
 
 Constipation may be averted by castor-oil or a suitable 
 diet — skimmed milk alternately with new milk; hot water 
 fomentations ought to be applied to the abdomen, and the 
 animal should be kept in a clean, cool place. After the 
 occurrence of this inflammation, the quarters occupied by 
 the young animal should be thoroughly disinfected in the 
 same manner as recommended in Enzootic Abortion 
 (which see). 
 
252 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 ARTHRITIS— JOINT DISEASE— JOINT ILL 
 
 Disease of the joints of young animals, occurring soon 
 after birth, has been for a long time recorded in districts 
 where breeding is largely carried on. In some years it pre- 
 vails very extensively, and appears to be almost enzootic. 
 
 CAUSES. — Some practitioners persist in their belief 
 that joint disease is due to the insufficiency of certain in- 
 gredients in the mother's milk. But Bollinger's observa- 
 tions have been generally accepted. He insists, that the 
 lameness or disease of the joints which attacks the young 
 animal during the first week after birth, are due to inflam- 
 mation of the navel and navel vessels (which see) . Bollin- 
 ger lays great stress on the neglect of the navel cord in 
 newly-born animals, and compares this neglect with the 
 scrupulous attention paid to that of infants, which is 
 severed and bandaged immediately after birth; while the 
 young animals have to lie in all kinds of filth, and are thus 
 readily exposed to inoculation with poisonous or injurious 
 matters, which cannot be excluded even from stables built 
 especially for the purpose, and kept thoroughly clean. If 
 the navel cord of an infant were exposed to the filth which 
 young animals have to lie in, it would be quite as liable to 
 blood-poisoning as animals, and to the consequent affec- 
 tion of the joints. 
 
 Bollinger contests the influence of food in the produc- 
 tion of this disease, as strong, as well as weak, animals are 
 attacked; it also appears when every kind of diet is given 
 to the parent. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. — The principal symptom of this form 
 of joint disease, is the extreme difficulty in moving. The 
 movements are painfully and reluctantly performed, so 
 that the young creature generally persists in lying. 
 Around and near the joints there are hot and painful swell- 
 ings. From the very commencement the symptoms arc 
 most acute, and similar to those of ordinary arthritis in 
 older animals; and they are rendered more marked by the 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 253 
 
 least movement, the lameness being then extremely great; 
 generally all the joints are involved. The fever is extreme, 
 the respiration hurried, and the visible lining membranes 
 highly injected with blood; sometimes, and especially 
 with Lambs, the thirst is intense, and the suffering crea- 
 ture will often be observed dragging itself along the ground 
 to reach water or the teat of its mother. Frequently there 
 is diarrhoea or dysentery, and sometimes a purulent dis- 
 charge from the nose. 
 
 The progress of this disease varies. It sometimes is 
 very rapid, death occuring in twenty-four or forty-eight 
 hours, while in other instances the animal may live twenty 
 or thirty days, or even longer. Recovery is rare, and 
 death is usually the termination. The malady usually 
 ends in suppuration, which nearly always becomes general, 
 numerous abscesses forming around the joints, which con- 
 tain pus; there are also purulent deposits in other regions 
 of the body. Generally after the fourth day, when the 
 joints are greatly swollen, the hair falls off these parts, and 
 a yellowish or citron-colored fluid, then pus, begins to 
 exude through the skin, which sloughs away; the liga- 
 ments are also involved in this sloughing process, and at 
 last, in some cases, the limb is only retained by remains of 
 tendons, the bones being exposed, and the odor almost 
 insupportable. 
 
 TREATMENT.— As it may be considered that this 
 disease is always caused by inflammation of the navel, the 
 PREVENTIVE TREATMENT will, therefore, be the 
 same as for that disease. (See Inflammation of the Navel) 
 CURATIVE TREATMENT.— The treatment, under 
 the most favorable circumstances, is very unsatisfactory 
 unless it is adopted at the very commencement. This 
 treatment should be the same as that for inflammation of 
 the navel (which see). Before the suppuration period, the 
 tincture of iodine applied to the inflamed joints is bene- 
 ficial. When suppuration is established, the abscess 
 should be opened as soon as it is soft to the touch. If 
 
254 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 much pain is evinced, give small doses of Dover's powder. 
 
 DOSE. — Dover's Powder. — Calf and Foal, 20 grains; 
 Lamb, 5 grains. 
 
 The following lotion applied to the inflamed parts will 
 also allay the pain. 
 
 Fluid Extract of Aconite 40 parts. 
 
 Chloroform Liniment 60 parts. 
 
 Apply externally over the seat of pain. Care must be 
 exercised to prevent undue absorption and poisoning. 
 
 The salicylate of soda should be given the same as in 
 inflammation of the navel. In addition to this, adminis- 
 ter cod-liver-oil three times a day in the following doses: 
 
 DOSE.— Cod-liver-oil.— Foal and Calf, 2 drachms; 
 Lamb, one-half drachm. 
 
 It is to be remembered that the mortality of this dis- 
 ease is as high as 90 per cent., and even when the life of 
 the creature afifected with joint disease is preserved, only 
 too frequent its health and condition are irretrievably 
 impaired. It is also well to remember, that joint disease 
 is of the same nature as that which leads to abortion, and 
 is capable of producing that accident. Therefore, owing 
 to the above reasons, it is advisable when a young animal 
 is born with joint disease, to destroy it and burn the body, 
 or cover with lime and bury deep. If, however, the young 
 animal is suffered to live, it should be separated from preg- 
 nant animals before the swellings suppurate or become 
 sores. The stables and sheds in which this disease has 
 been present should be disinfected the same as recommend- 
 ed in Enzootic Abortion (which see). 
 
 INDIGESTION IN YOUNG ANIMALS 
 
 This is most frequently observed in Calves, especially 
 high-bred Calves. The principal cause would appear to be 
 too rich milk, or even milk difficult of digestion from its. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. , 255 
 
 poorness, or it may be due to the allowance of an over- 
 quantity of milk. 
 
 SYMPTOMS.— The young animal looks dull and de- 
 jected, and evinces uneasiness or suffering; the move- 
 ments are torpid; the coat dry and staring; it yawns now 
 and again, and there are sharp gaseous eructations which 
 cause it to elevate its head. Soon it refuses to suck or par- 
 take of its food ; there may be vomiting of coagulated milk ; 
 the breath has an acid odor, and the tongue is coated with 
 a white or greyish fur; the abdomen is swollen, and pres- 
 sure made towards the upper part of the right side causes 
 pain ; and at this period symptoms of colic are often noted. 
 Constipation or diarrhoea may be present. If diarrhoea 
 is not persistent, it is a better indication than when con- 
 stipation exists. Indigestion runs its course rapidly in 
 the young animal — in the majority of cases only occupying 
 two, three, or four days. It may be considered a serious 
 condition, as death often occurs. 
 
 TREATMENT.— PREVENTATIVE TREATMENT. 
 — Over-repletion with milk should be guarded against, and 
 if the animal is being reared artificially, great care must be 
 paid to its diet. If at the teat, the food and water of the 
 mother should be attended to, and if the milk is too rich, 
 this may be remedied by giving less stimulating food to the 
 mother. With Mares which are worked during the suck- 
 ing period, the milk is often retained for a long time in the 
 udder, and becomes altered; the Foal is ravenously hun- 
 gry, and when given the opportunity over-gorges itself 
 with the unhealthy fluid. The preventative measures are 
 obvious in such a case. 
 
 The indigestion may be due to an insufficiency of oily 
 matters in the milk of the mother; here the diet of the 
 mothers must be altered. 
 
 CURATIVE TREATMENT.— In mild cases, a spoon- 
 ful of rennet is all that will be required to effect a speedy 
 cure. 
 
 When the digestion is due to acidity of the stomach. 
 
'.^yij OiisTKTKics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 administer baking soda (bicarbonate of soda) in the fol- 
 lowing dose: 
 
 DOSE.— Baking Soda.— Foal and Calf, one-half 
 drachm; Lamb and Pig, 4 grains; Puppy and Kitten, 1 
 grain. 
 
 The Soda is to be followed with a mild purgative — 
 such as castor oil — even when diarrhoea has set in. If 
 constipation persists, an injection of soap and water will 
 be beneficial. 
 
 Much success has attended the administration, to the 
 Calf and Foal, of a spoonful of finely-powdered vegetable 
 charcoal, given twice a day, mixed with water, in which an 
 egg has been beaten up. 
 
 DIARRHOEA— DYSENTERY IN YOUNG ANI- 
 MALS (DYSENTERIA NEONATORUM.) 
 
 Epizootic abortion and this fatal malady have been 
 noted to co-exist, and it has been supposed there is some 
 relationship between the two maladies. It generally 
 appears within a few days after birth — from the first to the 
 third; beyond the fourth day it is much less frequent. In 
 some instances the young creatures are afifected before 
 they have sucked; so that the milk could not have had 
 any influence in its production, which is evidence of its 
 infectious nature. 
 
 SYMPYOMS. — This disease usually appears within 
 three days after birth. The animals are dull and restless, 
 and the bowel movements consist of mucus, or fluid with 
 an extreme bad odor. (With the Calf the fluid expelled 
 is usually white, and very often streaked with blood.) The 
 eyes become sunk in their orbits; the breath has a foetid 
 odor; great debility and convulsions set in. Thirst is in- 
 tense; exhaustion is rapid and the creature cannot rise. 
 Toward the end the creature lies immovable, and dies 
 without a struggle in from one to three days; though in 
 some cases death may ensue in a few hours. 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. . 357 
 
 With allusion to its fatality, it may be said, that from 
 50 to 100 per cent, die from this destructive disease.. 
 Especially is this the percentage with the Calf, and in 
 many outbreaks it kills all the Calves in an establishment; 
 if any chance to survive an attack, they are sickly an^ 
 feeble for a long time. 
 
 TREATMENT. — As with every other animal malady, 
 PREVENTIVE TREATMENT is the most important 
 with regard to this dysentery of young animals. Atten- 
 tion to hygiene is very necessary at all times, and mpre so 
 when the disease has shown itself in a stable or shed. Itis. 
 much the safer plan, however, to remove all pregnant 
 animals from the dwelling in which it has appeared, and • 
 the longer the interval which elapses between their, 
 removal and the occurrence of parturition, so the more 
 likehhood there is of their progeny escaping. If moved in 
 three to six weeks before parturition, their safety may be 
 fairly assured. The stable or shed in which the malady 
 has occurred should be well disinfected, the same as after 
 Enzootic Abortion (which see), and, if possible, left t^n- 
 occupied during the grazing season. 
 
 CURATIVE TREATMENT.— This disease has gen- 
 erally been considered incurable. But if the medical treat- 
 ment is commenced with a sHght laxative— such as castor- 
 oil—to be followed by the following recipe (which may be 
 considered almost a specific) many animals may be saved, 
 if the treatment has not been delayed too long: 
 
 Pulverized Rhubarb Root one-half drachm. 
 
 Carbonate of Magnesium fifteen grains. 
 
 Pulverized Opium fifteen grains. 
 
 This is to be given to the Foal or Calf in one ounce of 
 whisky — the dose to be repeated in one hour, and again 
 repeated in twelve hours if necessary. To the Lamb give 
 one-third and to the Pig one-sixth of the above dose, and 
 repeat in the same namner. Also inject into the rectum, 
 from three to six drachms (according to the size of the ani- 
 
258 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 mal) of tepid water, to which has been added one grain of 
 permanganate of potassium to each drachm of water. 
 
 If the animal can take food it should be given in small 
 quantities, and. each meal of milk is to be diluted with 
 about one-fourth of lime-water, to prevent the formation 
 of curd in the stomach. In more serious cases, milk 
 should be withheld, and instead of it may be substituted 
 well-boiled gruel made with wheaten flour, or even eggs 
 and beef-tea may be administered. The patient should 
 be kept warm and comfortable; warm baths have some- 
 times proved useful. 
 
 ^CONSTIPATION— RETENTION OF MECONIUM. 
 
 The contents of the intestines — the meconium — are 
 generally expelled immediately after birth, when the navel 
 (umbilical) circulation is first interrupted. When the 
 meconium is retained much longer it is abnormal; and 
 this, perhaps, occurs more frequently with the Foal than 
 other creatuces. 
 
 The prolonged retention of the-,meconium gives rise to 
 constipation, 4nd this is often a seirt<ius condition. The 
 animals in which it occurs are generally" >weakly, and not 
 well developed.' 
 
 •• CAUSES. — Retention of the meconium is usually 
 observed in animals which are born in February or March, 
 and whose dams have been fed exclusively on dry fodder 
 during the winter; as this renders the milk deficient in 
 those purgative qualities which are so necessary for the 
 new-born animal. 
 
 . SYMPTOMS. — One or two days after birth the young 
 animal appears to be uneasy, refuses to suck, has spasms, 
 makes efforts to expel dung, exhibits symptoms of colic, 
 rolls on the ground, and often looks towards the abdomen; 
 the back is arched, urination is suspended, pulse and respir- 
 ation are frequent, the eyes are injected with blood, and 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 259 
 
 there is grinding of the teeth. Inflammation of the bowels 
 sets in, and death takes in struggles and convulsions. 
 
 TREATMENT. — THE PREVENTIVE TREAT- 
 MENT consists in attending to the feeding and condition 
 of the pregnant animal some time before parturition. The 
 young creature should be fed on the first milk its parent 
 yields; if this cannot be given, then the animal should 
 have a dose of castor-oil. 
 
 DOSE— CASTOR-OIL.— Foal and Calf, one ounce; 
 Lamb and Pig, one drachm; Puppy and Kitten, twenty 
 drops. 
 
 THE CURATIVE TREATMENT must be directed 
 towards removing the meconium from the intestines. This 
 may be effected by a soap or oil injection, or previously re- 
 moving as much as is accessible to a well-oiled* finger. That 
 which is beyond reach of the finger can be brought away 
 by means of a flexible, but not too weak, noose of wire 
 (Fig. 47). The mother should have an abundance of 
 fluid to drink, to which should be added the following dose 
 of sulphate of soda: 
 
 DOSE. — Sulphate of Soda (Glauber's Salt). — Cow, 
 one pound; Mare, three ounces; Sheep and Pig, two 
 ounces. 
 
 If the constipation persists in the young animal, ad- 
 minister castor-oil. If there is much pain, give the fol- 
 lowing dose of chlorodyne in a little water : 
 
 DOSE. — Chlorodyne. — Foal and Calf, fifteen drops; 
 Lamb, eight drops; Pig, five drops; Puppy and Kitten, 
 two drops. 
 
 The above treatment will be equally beneficial when- 
 ever constipation manifests itself in the young animal up 
 to the time of weaning. 
 
 ECLAMPSIA IN YOUNG ANIMALS. 
 
 This nervous affection has been observed in the Calf, 
 Pig, and Dog within a variable period after birth. 
 
260 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. — The animal appears dull and unsteady 
 on its limbs, when soon after it is suddenly and violently 
 seized with spasms; all the limbs become rigid, the jaws 
 are convulsively champed, and foam flows from the 
 mouth; in a few minutes the creature begins to cry loudly 
 and repeatedly, and to perform strange antics — jumping 
 forward, and heedless of injury. The eye looks haggard 
 and wild, and the respiration is hurried. The animal may 
 die from the first or second attack — rarely it survives more 
 than two: and if it does, it lies in a state of extreme lassi- 
 tude for a long time ; then it gradually regains its faculties, 
 and in the course of some days is well again; but for some 
 months it does not look thriving, and not infrequently 
 there is a renewal of the attacks. 
 
 TREATMENT.— Little can be done for this disease in 
 such young animals, beyond attention to the diet of both 
 mother and off-spring, and if constipation is present it 
 may be combatted by the means already mentioned. (See 
 Constipation in Young Animals.) 
 
 SPASMS. (TETANUS AGNORUM.) 
 
 Spasms are frequently witnessed in Lambs, and some- 
 times is so prevalent that it is regarded as enzootic. It 
 most frequently aflfects Lambs of the finer breeds, and us- 
 ually during the first two or three weeks after birth. 
 
 CAUSES. — In many outbreaks, the Lambs are predis- 
 posed to the disease through the improper feeding and 
 management of the Ewes. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. — The earliest symptoms are weakness, 
 loss of vivacity, and diminished appetite; the limbs be- 
 come stiff and the gait stilty, the back is arched, and the 
 neck and legs undergo convulsive contortions, so that 
 there is difficulty in rising or walking. The cramps extend 
 gradually to other parts of the body, until at last the ani- 
 mal cannot move, and to obtain food it has to be carried to 
 the mother's teat, where it needs to be supported. Gen- 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 361 
 
 erally, if the animal does not receive attention, it will 
 succumb in about eight or ten days. The fatal termina- 
 tion is sometimes preceded by grinding of the teeth, 
 diarrhoea, convulsions and complete paralysis. 
 
 TREATMENT. — PREVENTIVE TREATMENT 
 must be directed to keeping the Ewes in a healthy condi- 
 tion by proper feeding, and sheltering them from the 
 weather if this be severe at lambing time. The Lambs 
 should also be kept from cold winds and wet. 
 
 CURATIVE TREATMENT.— A dose of castor-oil 
 should be given at the onset of the disease, and especially 
 if there is any reason to apprehend that the meconium is 
 retained in the intestines (see Constipation in Young Ani- 
 mals) . Chlorodyne may be given in five drop doses every 
 four hours in a little water. Friction should be applied 
 to the limbs, either with or without whisky. 
 
 IMPERFORATE ANUS. 
 
 This condition is very serious unless surgical aid is 
 quickly afforded, and even then the young creatures are 
 not always saved. 
 
 '^ This occlusion or imperforation may exist in various 
 degree: There may be merely a membrane covering and 
 occluding the anal opening; the borders of the anus may 
 be adherent to a greater or less extent; the rectum may 
 be more or less absent or incomplete; or it may open into 
 the genito-urinary passages instead of the anus. 
 
 SYMPTOMS. — When no dung can be expelled, us- 
 ually towards the second or third day after birth, uneasi- 
 ness and symptoms of acute colic are manifested ; the ani- 
 mal does not suck, the abdomen becomes distended, 
 ejtpulsive efforts and pawing are observed, yet nothing 
 passed. The animal shows signs of great pain and misery, 
 and if help is not afforded it dies in agony. 
 
 TREATMENT.— If the obstruction is other than a 
 simple membrane occluding the anus, but little can be 
 
§63 Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 done. But when this membrane, which is really the skin, 
 projects like a large vesicle, owing to the pressure made 
 upon it by the dung, is the obstacle, all that has to be done 
 is to incise the membrane both vertically and transverse ; 
 care being taken not to allow the knife to pass too deep. 
 No sooner is this incision made than the meconium escapes ; 
 then the pointed ends of the membrane may be clipped off 
 with a pair of sharp scissors. The index finger should be 
 introduced as far as possible into the intestine, to make 
 certain that all is right there. The lips of the wound 
 should be lubricated by a little carbolic vaseline. Should 
 the opening have a tendency to grow together, a tent may 
 be introduced into the rectum, and withdrawn every now 
 and again in order to allow the dung to be expelled. 
 
 IMPERFORATE VULVA. 
 
 This is frequently observed in new-born animals, and 
 is serious, as the urine cannot escape unless it is expelled 
 through the urachus by navel opening. 
 
 TREATMENT.— The Hps of the vulva are to be sep- 
 arated vertically with a knife, using the same precautions, 
 and after treatment as in imperforate anus (which see). 
 
 IMPERFORATE PREPUCE OF PENIS. 
 
 This is of unusual occurrence, but does sometimes oc- 
 cur in the Foal, causing an obstruction to the passage of 
 urine, which is very serious. 
 
 TREATMENT. — An artificial opening is to be made 
 in the prepuce, where the natural aperture should be; the 
 lips of the wound should be kept apart and the precautions 
 and treatment the same as in Imperforate Anus (which 
 see). 
 
 This operation is successful only when the urethral 
 canal is open throughout its length; when it is occluded 
 also, the operation will no longer be attended with benefit, 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 263 
 
 and the operator must then endeavor to discover where 
 the obstruction is, and either overcome it, or make an 
 opening somewhere for the escape of the urine. The 
 point of obstruction can be easily discovered by introduc- 
 ing into the penis a very small sound or catheter. On 
 reaching the point of obstruction with the instrument, 
 gentle force will usually overcome it. The catheter must 
 be well oiled and allowed to remain in the canal of the 
 penis for several days, to prevent the reuniting of the 
 broken tissues. 
 
 OCCLUSION OF THE EYELIDS. 
 
 Occlusion of the eyelids has been witnessed in Foals. 
 Calves, and other young animals. Of course, the follow- 
 ing treatment is not to be applied in the natural occlusion 
 of the eyelids of Puppies, Kittens, and young Rabbits. 
 Accidental occlusion of the ej'elids presents itself in two 
 forms; in one, the margins of the upper and lower eyelids 
 are only adherent; and in the other the eyelids are, in 
 addition, adherent to the eye itself throughout the entire 
 surface. 
 
 TREATMENT.— The first mentioned variety is alone 
 curable, and in order to disunite the eyelids, the opierator, 
 after producing local insensibility by the application of 
 cocaine, proceeds as follows: Securing the head of the 
 creature in the hands of an assistant, the upper eyelid is 
 elevated by another assistant by means of a pair of forceps. 
 The operator himself seizes the lower lid with a forceps, 
 and pulls it as far as possible from the eyeball beneatti; 
 then, taking a small, sharp pair of scissors in his right haricl, 
 a small puncture or notch is to be made betv.'een the mar- 
 gins of the eyelids, in such a manner as not to injure either 
 lid, if possible, and much less to wound the eye'. Tlhie 
 scissors is now passed along to separate the lids asiitrsis 
 the inner corner of the eye, and then to the outer corner. 
 All that is required after the operation, is to apply a very 
 
264: Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 
 
 little lard to the borders of the lids, using care not to get 
 any into the eye, as it might cause inflammation of that 
 organ. 
 
 OCCLUSION OF THE EAR. 
 
 When this condition exists, deafness is the consequence, 
 as well as dumbness. It is the dumb condition which 
 most frequently attracts attention, and leads to the dis- 
 covery that the real defect is deafness. 
 
 TREATMENT. — A small prominent tumor is detected 
 in the place of the ear, or where the external auditory canal 
 should be. This tumor is rather soft, and can be readily 
 seized by forceps, when it may be punctured by a sharp- 
 pointed knife, and a vertical, as well as a transverse, inci- 
 sion made through it. When the membrane is opened, a 
 quantity of grey cerumen is found obstructing the canal; 
 this can be extruded by pressure, injections of tepid water, 
 or a small scoop. To prevent the closure to the canal, a 
 little morsel of lint or fine tow is placed in the ear, and 
 retained there by a bandage round the head. 
 
 If both ears are affected, only one should be operated 
 upon at a time; and, as a rule, it is better to wait until the 
 slight inflammation which follows the operation subsides, 
 before the other ear undergoes the same treatment. 
 
 TONGUE-TIE. 
 
 TiiC fraenum linguae is a triangular formed mucus 
 membrane of the mouth, and situated between the lower 
 part of that cavity and the lower surface of the tongue. 
 When the fraenum is too narrow from above to below, or 
 if it extends as far forward as the extremity of the 
 tongue, it cramps the tongue's movement, interferes with 
 sucking and swallowing of fluids; the animal, if drinking 
 out of a bucket, vainly plunges its face into the fluid as far 
 »s the eyes. The teat is seized with difficulty, and the 
 
Obstetrics — Domesticated Animals. 265 
 
 tongue is so limited in its movements that it cannot be 
 protrudedlto lick the nostrils. The defect is often un- 
 perceived, and the young creature loses condition, becomes 
 weak, and eventually succumbs. 
 
 TREATMENT.— The treatment is very simple. It 
 consists merely in dividing the fraenum to such an extent 
 that the organ may recover its liberty of movement. Im- 
 mediately after the operation, the creature protrudes its 
 tongue to lick the blood which escapes from the incision; 
 it can now drink with ease, and the wound will heal in a 
 few days without any precautions. 
 
TABLE OF ILLUSTRATIONS 
 
 Fig. Page. 
 
 1. The Generative Organs of the Mare 8 
 
 2. Section of Udder of Cow ■ 13 
 
 3. Generative Organs of the Mare: Isolated and Partly 
 
 Opened 16 
 
 4. Womb, Fallopian Tubes, and Horns of the Sheep 19 
 
 5. Ovary Opened Vertically 24 
 
 6. Portion of Ovary of a Pig 24 
 
 7. Foetal Membranes of Cow at Mid-term. Womb opened 
 
 on its left side 36 
 
 8. Foetal Membranes of the Goat at Full Time : Twins 37 
 
 9. Foetus of Mare and its Envelops 39 
 
 10. Pregnant Womb of a Multiple-bearing and Single-bearing 
 
 animal 42 
 
 11. Twin Pregnancy ; Cow 57 
 
 12. Impregnating Tube 67 
 
 13. Section of Impregnating Tube 67 
 
 14. Dilator of Neck of the Womb 116 
 
 15. Normal Position of the Foetus in the Mare at the First 
 
 Stage of Parturition 117 
 
 16. Normal Position of the Foetus in the Mare at the Second 
 
 Stage of Parturition 120 
 
 17. Normal Position of the Foetus in the Mare at the Third 
 
 Stage of Parturition 121 
 
 IS. Posterior Po.sition of the Foetus at the Third Stage of 
 
 Normal Parturition 122 
 
 19. Standing Position of the Cow, in the Act of Parturition. . . . 123 
 
 20. Recumbent Position of the Mare, in the Act of Parturi- 
 
 tion 124 
 
 21. Diameters of the Pelvis 149 
 
 22. Deviation of the Hind- Limbs in the Anterior Presentation. 153 
 
 23. Fore-limbs Crossed over the Neck in the Anterior Present- 
 
 ation 155 
 
 24. Fore-limbs Flexed at the Knees in the Anterior Presenta- 
 
 tion 156 
 
 25. Extending the Fore-limbs in the Anterior Presentation. . . . 157 
 
 26. Anterior Presentation: One Fore-limb Completely Re- 
 
 tained 159 
 
Table of Illustrations. 267 
 
 Fig. Page. 
 
 27. Anterior Presentation: Both Fore-limbs Completely Re- 
 
 tained 160 
 
 28. Anterior Presentation : Downward Deviation of the Head . 161 
 
 29. Anterior Presentation: Extreme Downward Deviation of 
 
 the Head 162 
 
 30. Anterior Presentation: Lateral Deviation of the Head 
 
 toward the Shoulder 164 
 
 31. Anterior Presentation: Lateral Deviation of the Head to- 
 
 ward the Abdomen 165 
 
 32. Anterior Presentation: Deviation of the Head Upward 
 
 and Backward 167 
 
 33. Posterior Presentation : Hock 169 
 
 34. Hock Presentation: Hock Corded I'S 
 
 35. Thigh and Croup Presentation 173 
 
 36. Thigh and Croup Presentation : Thigh Corded 175 
 
 37. Transverse Presentation 176 
 
 38. Transverse Presentation: Shoulder and Loin Presented ... 177 
 
 39. Transverse Presentation : Shoulder and Loin Presented ... 178 
 
 40. Transverse Presentation: Breast and Abdomen Presented, 
 
 Head and Feet Engaged 1 ' ■' 
 
 41. Transverse Presentation. Breast and Abdomen Presented, 
 
 Hind-limbs most advanced, Head retained 180 
 
 X. Womb Dilator ■ • ■ l^'^ 
 
 42-A. Traction Cord and Band, and the Manner of Applying 
 
 Them 1S5 
 
 42-B. Traction Cord 185 
 
 43. Head Collar ' 186 
 
 44. Head Collar placed on Calf's Head, the right Fore-pastern 
 
 being Corded also 1°' 
 
 45. Wire Extractor ISS 
 
 46. Wire-Extractor AppHed 188 
 
 47. Tube and Noose 189 
 
 40. Noose Fixed on the Foetus 190 
 
 49. Darreau's Repeller, Armed with a Running Noose 190 
 
 50. Gunther's Curved Porte-Cord and Blunt Crotchet Armed 
 
 with a Cord and Ring 191 
 
 51. Joint Repeller Closed 1^2 
 
 52. Joint Repeller Open 19'*^ 
 
 63. Short Blunt Crotchet or Hook 194 
 
 54. Blunt Finger Crotchet or Hook ' 194 
 
 55. Long Pointed Crotchet or Hook 195 
 
 56. Bitch Forceps 196 
 
 57. Obstetric Machine 201 
 
268 Table of Illustrations. 
 
 Pig. Page. 
 
 58. Straight Embryotome 204 
 
 59. Curved Embryotome 204 
 
 60. Spatula 205 
 
 61. Bone-Chisel 205 
 
 62. Bone Saw 205 
 
 63. Pad Pessary 222 
 
 64. Ring Pessary 223 
 
 66. Cup-and-Ball Pessary 224 
 
 66. Loop of Rope Truss which extends around the vulva. . . . 225 
 
 67. Rope Truss Applied 225 
 
 68. Leather Truss Applied 226 
 
 69. Ring Teat-Syphon 238 
 
 70. Perforating Sound 241 
 
 71. Truss Applied for Navel (Umbilical) Hernia 245 
 
 72. Navel (Umbilical) Clam 246 
 
INDEX 
 
 A. Page. 
 
 Abdominal explorations or examination 50 
 
 Abnormal retention of the foetus 86 
 
 Abortion 90 
 
 Abortion, accidental 91 
 
 Abortion, epizootic or enzootic 105 
 
 Abortion, sporadic 91 
 
 Abortion, flooding (haemorrhage) after 218, 
 
 Abortion, retention of the after-birth after 213 
 
 Absence of milk 239 
 
 Accidents of pregnancy 80 
 
 After-birth 37 
 
 After-birth, functions of 38 
 
 After-birth, retention of 212 
 
 After-pains 144 
 
 Agalactia, absence of milk 239 
 
 Amputation of the fore-Hmbs of the foetus 207 
 
 Amputation of the head of the foetus 206 
 
 Amputation of the hind-limbs of the foetus 209 
 
 Amputation of the limbs of the foetus 207 
 
 Angles of the vulva 8. 
 
 Anus, imperforate 261 
 
 Arthritis 252 
 
 Artificial premature birth 211 
 
 Attention to the mother after normal parturition 142 
 
 Attention to the mother after difficult parturition 211 
 
 Attention to the mother during the first two stages of natural 
 
 labour 128 
 
 Attention to the mother during the third stage of natural 
 
 labour 133 
 
 Attention to the off-spring immediately after natural delivery 
 
 . has taken place 136 . 
 
 Attention to the off-spring after difficult parturition 211 
 
 B. 
 
 Bandages, trusses 225, 245, 
 
 Bands 184^ 
 
270 Index. 
 
 Page. 
 
 Barrenness 62 
 
 Barrenness in the female 64 
 
 Barrenness in the male 62 
 
 Birth, premature artificial 211 
 
 Bleeding (haemorrhage) from the womb before parturition ... 85 
 
 Body -of foetus, division of 210 
 
 Breast and abdominal presentation 177 
 
 Broad ligaments 20 
 
 Bulb, the 10 
 
 C. * 
 
 Causes of death of foetus 132 
 
 Causes of parturition 113 
 
 Caution of the operator 136 
 
 Chest of foetus, reduction of 112 
 
 Colic during pregnancy 73 
 
 Constipation during pregnancy 72 
 
 Constipation in young animals 258 
 
 Contraction of the womb after normal parturition 146 
 
 Copulation 29 
 
 Cords, ropes, bands 184 
 
 Cornua 20 
 
 Cough during pregnancy 79 
 
 Cracks in the teats 240 
 
 Cramp during pregnancy 79 
 
 Crotchets 193 
 
 Crutch 191 
 
 Cup-and-Ball pessary 224 
 
 D. 
 
 Death of foetus 131 
 
 Decapitation 206 
 
 Delivery, difficult 147 
 
 DeHvery difficult, attention to the mother and off-spring after. . 211 
 Delivery difficult, from malpresentations or malpositions of the 
 
 foetus 152 
 
 DeHvery difficult, how to make examinations in 147 
 
 Delivery difficult, retention of after-birth after 212 
 
 Delivery, disorders of the mother after 144 
 
 Delivery, flooding (haemorrhage) after 218 
 
 Delivery, duration of 125 
 
 Delivery, natural 113 
 
 Delivery natural, attention to the mother after 142 
 
 Delivery natural, attention to the ofEspring after 136 
 
Index. 271 
 
 Page. 
 Delivery natural, how to make examinations in (see examina- 
 tions.) 
 
 Delivery natural, necessary aids in 127 
 
 Delivery natural, signs and course of 117 
 
 Delivery, position assumed daring 120 
 
 Detruncation 210 
 
 Development of ovaries and ova 26 
 
 Deviation of the head upwards and backwards 167 
 
 Deviation of the hind-limbs in the anterior presentation 153 
 
 Division of the body of the foetus 210 
 
 Diarrhoea in young animals 256 
 
 Difficult labour, birth, parturition 147 
 
 Diseases incidental to pregnancy 70 
 
 Disorders of the mother after delivery 144 
 
 Downward deviation of the head, anterior presentation 162 
 
 Dropsical swelling around the navel (umbilical) cord 247 
 
 Dropsical swellings of the legs during pregnancy 73 
 
 Duration of delivery 125 
 
 Duration of pregnancy 54 
 
 Dysentery in young animals 256 
 
 Dystokia 147 
 
 E. 
 
 Ear, occlusion of 264 
 
 Eclampsia in young animals 259 
 
 Embryotomy 202 
 
 Embryotomy instruments 203 
 
 Embrj'otomy, preliminary arrangements for 204 
 
 Enzootic, Epizootic, abortion 105 
 
 Examination, exploration abdominal 60 
 
 Examination, exploration rectal 62 
 
 Examination, exploration vaginal 53 
 
 Examinations, how to make successfully 50, 52, 53, 136, 147 
 
 Excessive amount of milk before parturition 80 
 
 Excessive waters (hydrops amnii) 74 
 
 External organs of generation 7 
 
 Extractor wire, for small animals 188 
 
 Eyelids, occlusion of 263 
 
 F. 
 
 Fall of vagina before parturition 80 
 
 Fall or inversion of the vagina after parturition 228 
 
 Fallopian tubes 22 
 
 Fallopian tubes, functions of 23 
 
272 Index. 
 
 Page. 
 
 Fecundation 28, 34 
 
 Female generative organs 7 
 
 Fissures in the teats 240 
 
 Flooding (haemorrhage) after abortion 218 
 
 Flooding (haemorrhage) after delivery 218 
 
 Foetal membranes, retention of 212 
 
 Foetus, abnormal retention of 86 
 
 Foetus, cause of death of 132 
 
 Foetus, death of 131 
 
 Foetus, mal-presentation or Mal-position of 152 
 
 Foetus, traction of, or drawing on 134 
 
 Foetus, traction of in twin pregnancy 135 
 
 Foetuses twin, mal-presentations and positions of 181 
 
 Food for pregnant animals 60> 
 
 Forced extraction of the foetus 197 
 
 Force employment of, in difficult partvtrition — traction 197 
 
 Forceps 196 
 
 Fore-limbs of foetus, amputation of 207 
 
 Fore-limbs completely retained, anterior presentation. . 158- 
 
 Fore-limbs crossed over the neck, anterior presentation 154 
 
 Fore-limbs flexed at the knees, anterior presentation 156 
 
 Functions of the after-bir^h 38 
 
 G. 
 
 General care of the young after delivery 138 
 
 Generation 29 
 
 Generative organs, external 7 
 
 Generative organs, female 7 
 
 Generative organs, internal 15 
 
 Gestation 29, 40 
 
 Halter 7^:^,^.^^^ 186 
 
 Head-collar ^^f^ 186 
 
 Head-cord 186 
 
 Head of foetus, amputation of 207 
 
 Head retained, and with it one or both of the fore-limbs 168 
 
 Heat 31 
 
 Hind-limbs of foetus, amputation of 209 
 
 Hock presentation 169 
 
 Hooks 193 
 
 Horns of womb 20 
 
 How to make successful examinations in difficult parturition. . 147 
 
 Hurried (tumultuous) labour in normal parturition 129 
 
Index. 273 
 
 Page. 
 
 Hygiene of pregnant animals 58 
 
 I. 
 
 Imperforate anus 261 
 
 Imperforate prepuce of penis 262 
 
 Imperofrate vulva 262 
 
 Indigestion 254 
 
 Infectious abortion 109 
 
 Infecundity q9 
 
 Inflammation of the navel (umbilical) cord 248 
 
 Inflammation of the udder 237 
 
 Inflammation of the vagina 230 
 
 Inflammation of the womb (metritis) " 232 
 
 Influence of pregnancy on ordinary diseases 69 
 
 Instruments, embryotomy 203 
 
 Instruments for the extraction of the foetus 182 
 
 Internal organs of generation 15 
 
 Inversion of the vagina 228 
 
 Inversion of the womb 219 
 
 J. 
 
 Joint disease 252 
 
 Joint-ill ' ' 252 
 
 L. 
 
 Labour, natural, normal 113 
 
 Labour, natural, attention to the mother during the first two 
 
 stages 128 
 
 Labour, difficult I47 
 
 Labour difficult, how to make examinations in 147 
 
 Labour, hurried (tumultuous) in normal parturition 130 
 
 Labour natural, attention to the mother during the third stage. . 133 
 
 Labour natural, expelHng powers II4 
 
 Labour natural, necessary aid in 127 
 
 Labour natural, signs and course of 117 
 
 Labour natural, signs and course of preliminary stage 118 
 
 Labour natural, signs and course of second stage 119 
 
 Labour natural, signs and course of third stage 120 
 
 Labour natural signs and course of the fourth stage 126 
 
 Labour protracted I3O 
 
 Lactation l^g 
 
 Lateral deviation of head of foetus to right or left 163 
 
 Leather truss 227 
 
 Leucorrhoea 231 
 
274 Index. 
 
 Page. 
 
 Limbs of foetus, amputation of 207 
 
 Lips of vulva 7 
 
 Liquor amnii 35 
 
 Lochia 144 
 
 Lochia, to prevent the untimely cessation of 145 
 
 Loss of appetite 71 
 
 M. 
 
 Malpresentations and malpositions of the foetus 152 
 
 Malpresentation of twin foetuses 181 
 
 Mammae 11 
 
 Material signs of pregnancy 46 
 
 Mechanical dilation of the mouth of the womb 182 
 
 Mechanical means and instruments employed in the extraction 
 
 of the foetus 182 
 
 Mechanical means for the retention of the womb after inver- 
 sion 222 
 
 Meconium, retention of 258 
 
 Menstruation 31 
 
 Metritis 232 
 
 Milk, absence of 239 
 
 Milk duct, obliteration of 240 
 
 Milk, excessive amount of before parturition 80 
 
 Milk fever 145, 234 
 
 Miscarriage 90 
 
 Mother, attention to after difficult parturition 211 
 
 Mother, attention to during the first two stages of natural 
 
 labour 1 28 
 
 Mother, attention to during the third stage of natural labour . . . 133 
 
 Mother, attention to immediately after delivery 136 
 
 Mother, disorders of after delivery 144 
 
 Mouth of the womb 20 
 
 Multiple pregnancy 55 
 
 N. 
 
 Natural birth, delivery, labour, parturition 113 
 
 Natural measurements of the pelvis 149 
 
 Natural parturition, expelling powers 114 
 
 Natural presentation of foetus, anterior 152 
 
 Natural presentation of foetus, posterior 168 
 
 Navel cord, inflammation of 248 
 
 Navel, dropsical swelling around 247 
 
 Navel, rupture (hernia) of 244 
 
 Navel-string (umbilical cord) 40 
 
Index. 275 
 
 Page. 
 
 Necessary aid in normal parturition 127 
 
 Noose and tube 189 
 
 Noose running, and manner of applying 185 
 
 Normal parturition 1 13 
 
 O. 
 
 Obliteration of the milk duct 240 
 
 Obstetrical physiology 28 
 
 Occlusion of the ear 264 
 
 Occlusion of the eyelids 263 
 
 Oedema of the umbilicus 247 
 
 Off-spring, attention to immediately after natural birth 136 
 
 Off- spring, attention to immediately after difficult birth 211 
 
 Omphalitis 248 
 
 Operator the, caution to 136 
 
 Ovaries, the 24 
 
 Ovaries and ova, development of 26 
 
 Oviducts 22 
 
 Ovum 25 
 
 P. 
 
 Pad pessary 222 
 
 Pains, after 144 
 
 Paralysis of the hind-quarters (paraphlegia) 76 
 
 Parturient apoplexy 145, 234 
 
 Parturient fever 232 
 
 Parturition 29 
 
 Parturition, artificial premature 211 
 
 Parturition, difficult 147 
 
 Parturition, difficult, attention to the mother after 211 
 
 Parturition, difficult, attention to the off-spring after 211 
 
 Parturition difficult, flooding (haemorrhage) after 218 
 
 Parturition difficult, forced extraction in 197 
 
 Parturition difficult, how to make successful examinations in . 147 
 
 Parturition difficult, retention of the after-birth after 212 
 
 Parturition difficult, twin foetuses in 181 
 
 Parturition, disorders of the mother after 144 
 
 Parturition, duration of 125 
 
 Parturition, fall or inversion of the vagina after 228 
 
 Parturition, inversion or prolapsus of the womb after 219 
 
 Parturition natural, normal 113 
 
 Parturition normal, attention to the mother after 142 
 
376 Index. 
 
 Page. 
 
 Parturition normal, attention to the mother during first two 
 
 stages of 133 
 
 Parturition normal, attention to the oflf-spring immediately 
 
 after 136 
 
 Parturition normal, expelling powers 114 
 
 Parturition normal, flooding (haemorrhage) after 218 
 
 Parturition normal, how to make examinations in 147 
 
 Parturition normal, hurried (tumultuous) labour during 129 
 
 Parturition normal, necessary aid in 127 
 
 Parturition normal, retention of the after-birth after 212 
 
 Parturition normal, signs and course of 117 
 
 Partiirition normal, signs and course of preliminary stage. ... 118 
 
 Parturition normal, signs and course of second stage 119 
 
 Parturition normal, signs and course of third stage 120 
 
 Parturition normal, signs and course of fourth stage 126 
 
 Parturition, position assumed during 123 
 
 Parturition, rupture of the womb after 228 
 
 Pass 190 
 
 Pathological disturbances incidental to pregnancy 69 
 
 Pathology of pregnancy 69 
 
 Pelvis, natural measurements of 149 
 
 Penis, imperforate prepuce of 262 
 
 Perinaeum, the j ^,„'rr7TT':^. 10 
 
 Perinaeum, rupture of . * \ 230 
 
 Persistance of the urachus 244 
 
 Pessary, cup-and-ball 224 
 
 Pessary, pad 222 
 
 Pessary, ring 223 
 
 Physiology, obstetrical 28 
 
 Pica, loss of appetite 71 
 
 Placenta i 37 
 
 Position assumed during delivery .* 123 
 
 Position of foetuses in multiple pregnancy 56 
 
 Post partum haemorrhage , 218 
 
 Porte-cord \ 191 
 
 Pregnancy !. 29, 40 
 
 Pregnancy, accidents of ,' 80 
 
 Pregnancy, diseases incidental to i 70 
 
 Pregnancy, dropsical swellings of the legs during 73 
 
 Pregnancy, duration of 54 
 
 Pregnancy, influence of on ordinary diseases 69 
 
 Pregnancy, material signs of 49 
 
 Pregnancy, multiple 55 
 
Index. 277 
 
 Page. 
 
 Pregnancy, multiple, position of foetuses in 56 
 
 Pregnancy, pathology of 69 
 
 Pregnancy, pathological disturbances incidental to 69 
 
 Pregnancy, rational signs of 46 
 
 Pregnancy, sensible signs of 50 
 
 Pregnancy, signs of 46 
 
 Pregnancy, twin 55 
 
 Pregnant animals, dwellings for 61 
 
 Pregnant animals, food for 60 
 
 Pregnant animals, hygiene of 68 
 
 Pregnant animals, tranquility of 61 
 
 Pregnant animals, water for 60 
 
 Preliminary arrangements for embryotomy 204 
 
 Presentation anterior, deviation of the head upward and back- 
 ward 167 
 
 Presentation anterior, deviation of the hind-hmbs 153 
 
 Presentation anterior, downward deviation of the head. ...... 162 
 
 Presentation anterior, fore-limbs completely retained 159 
 
 Presentation anterior, fore-Hmbs crossed over the neck 155 
 
 Presentation anterior, fore-limbs flexed at the knees 156 
 
 Presentation anterior, head retained and with it one or both of 
 
 the fore-limbs 168 
 
 Presentation anterior, lateral deviation of the head to the 
 
 right or left 163 
 
 Presentation anterior, natural 152 
 
 Presentation, posterior, hock 169 
 
 Presentation, posterior, natural 168 
 
 Presentation posterior, thigh and croup 175 
 
 Presentation, transverse 176 
 
 Presentation, transverse back, loin and shoulder presented . . . 178 
 
 Presentation transverse, breast and abdominal 179 
 
 Prolapsus of the vagina before parturition 80 
 
 Prolapsus of the womb after parturition 219 
 
 Protracted labour during the first two stages of normal par- 
 turition 130 
 
 Protrusion of the vagina before parturition 80 
 
 Puberity 29 
 
 Puncture of the cranium or skull of foetus 206 
 
 R. 
 
 Rational signs of pregnancy 46 
 
 Reduction of the abdomen of the foetus 210 
 
 Reduction of the chest of the foetus 210 
 
278 Index. 
 
 Page. 
 
 Rectal examination or exploration 52 
 
 Repeller or crutch 191 
 
 Reproduction 28 
 
 Retention of the after-birth after abortion 212 
 
 Retention of the after-birth after parturition 212 
 
 Retention of the foetal membranes or envelops 212 
 
 Retention of the meconium 258 
 
 Rickets and softening of the bones 71 
 
 Ring pessary 223 
 
 Ropes — cords 184 
 
 Rope truss 225 
 
 Running noose and manner of applying 185 
 
 Rupture of the navel 244 
 
 Rupture of the perinaeum 230 
 
 Rupture of the vagina 229 
 
 Rupture of the water-bag 133 
 
 Rupture of the womb before parturition 84 
 
 Rupture of the womb after parturition 84 
 
 Rut 31 
 
 S. 
 
 Sensible signs of pregnancy 50 
 
 Signs and course of normal parturition 117 
 
 Signs and course of the preliminary stage of normal parturi- 
 tion 118 
 
 Signs and course of second stage of normal parturition 119 
 
 Signs and course of third stage of normal parturition 120 
 
 Signs and course of fourth stage of normal parturition 126 
 
 Signs of pregnancy 46 
 
 Skull of foetus, puncture of 206 
 
 Softening of the bones 71 
 
 Spasms in young animals 260 
 
 Sporadic abortion 91 
 
 SteriHty 62 
 
 Sterility in the female 64 
 
 Sterility in the male 62 
 
 Suspended animation in the new born animal 137 
 
 Suspended hfe in the new-born animal 137 
 
 Suspensory ligaments 20 
 
 T. 
 
 Teats, cracks and fissures in 240 
 
 Teats, obstruction of (obliteration of the milk duct) 240 
 
 Tetanus agnorum 260 
 
Index. 279 
 
 Page. 
 
 Thigh and croup presentation 175 
 
 Tongue-tie 264 
 
 Traction cords, ropes, and bands 184, 185, 186 
 
 Traction — employment of force in parturition 197 
 
 Traction of, or drawing on the foetus 134 
 
 Traction of the foetus in twin pregnancy 135 
 
 TranquiHty of pregnant animals 61 
 
 Transverse presentation 177 
 
 Truss, leather 224 
 
 Truss, rope 225 
 
 Tube and noose 189 
 
 Twin foetuses, malpresentation of 181 
 
 Twin pregnancy , 55 
 
 Twin pregnancy, natural position of foetuses in 56 
 
 Twin pregnancy, traction of the foetus in 135 
 
 U. 
 
 Udder, the 11 
 
 Udder, functions of 15 
 
 Udder, inflammation of 237 
 
 Udder, modifications of at puberty and before parturition. ... 12 
 
 Umbilical cord 40 
 
 Umbilical hernia 244 
 
 Umbilicus, inflammation of 248 
 
 Urachus, persistence of 244 
 
 Uterus 18 
 
 Utricular glands 20 
 
 V. 
 
 Vaginal examinations or explorations 53 
 
 Vagina, fall or inversion of after parturition 228 
 
 Vagina, inflammation of 230 
 
 Vagina, protrusion (prolapsus) of before parturition 80 
 
 Vagina, rupture of 229 
 
 Vagina, the 15 
 
 Vulva 7 
 
 Vulva, imperforate 262 
 
 W. 
 
 Water-bag, rupture of 133 
 
 Waters, excessive 74 
 
 Waters, the (liquor amnii) 35 
 
 Whites 23 1 
 
 Wire extractor for small animals 188 
 
380 
 
 Index. 
 
 Page. 
 
 Womb, the 18 
 
 Womb, body of 19 
 
 Womb, cavity of 20 
 
 Womb, contraction of after delivery 146 
 
 Womb, bleeding (haemorrhage) from after parturition 218 
 
 Womb, bleeding (haemorrhage) from before parturition 85 
 
 Womb, inflammation of 232 
 
 Womb, inversion or prolapsus of after parturition 219 
 
 Womb, mouth of 20 
 
 Womb, rupture during and after parturition 228 
 
 Womb, rupture of before parturition 83 
 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 Young 
 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 anima 
 
 attention to after difficult delivery 211 
 
 attention to immediately after natural delivery 136 
 
 arthritis in the . . . 252 
 
 asphyxia of 243 
 
 constipation in the 258 
 
 death of, before delivery 131 
 
 diarrhoea, dysentery in the 256 
 
 diseases and abnormalities of the 243 
 
 eclampsia in the 259 
 
 imperforate anus in the 261 
 
 imperforate prepuce of penis in the 262 
 
 imperforate vtilva in the 262 
 
 indigestion in the 254 
 
 joint disease, joint ill in the 252 
 
 navel-bleeding (heamorrhage) from 243 
 
 navel-dropsical swelling around 247 
 
 navel flow of urine from 244 
 
 navel-inflammation of 248 
 
 navel-rupture, hernia of 244 
 
 navel-string of the 40 
 
 occlusion of the ear 264 
 
 occlusion of the eyelids of the 263 
 
 retention of the meconium in the 258 
 
 spasms in the 260 
 
 suflocation of the 243 
 
 suspended life — suspended animation in the. . . 137 
 
 tongue-tie in the 264 
 
\