LUNGS, CONGESTION OF.
—A filling of the lungs with blood. This is very common with horses in winter and is most frequently due to a chill. Animals that have been put to heavy work, or are in a weakened condition, are frequently susceptible if left standing in a draft while still warm. Sluggishness is noticed, first followed by trembling at the flank, heavy breathing; the pulse will be noted as quick, but weak; a gurgling sound will be noted if the ear is placed against the chest. The best treatment is such as gives quick relief. If at work, place the horse at rest at once in the stable and cover with blanket. Have plenty of fresh air admitted, but do not allow a draft to blow over the patient. Assist circulation as much as possible by rubbing of the legs and apply cold pad to the chest. A mustard plaster applied over the chest is very good. A good drench consists of alcohol in 2 ounce doses, well diluted in water; at the same time another drench consisting of 4 tablespoonfuls of sweet spirits of niter and 2 tablespoonfuls of laudanum, mixed with a pint of water, is also very good. If the conditions indicate that the lungs are full of blood, add 10 drops of Fleming’s tincture of aconite to the drench. The drenches may be given two or three hours apart until relief comes, at which time quiet is advised, although a little gentle walking for exercise is advisable.
From this time on treat the animal as a patient, giving easily digested foods. A tonic consisting of ground gentian root and nitrate of potash, half and half, is excellent. Give a teaspoonful of this in the feed three times a day.