PARALYSIS.
—A loss of power over some of the muscles due to a disordered state of the brain or nerves. This may result from disease or injury or some irritation. In horses and cattle the hindquarters are not infrequently affected in this way, the result of indigestion from constipation or from attacks of colic. The animal shows weakness in one hind limb, moving it with difficulty when the opposite limb may then become affected. If the attack is very severe, the animal falls on its haunches and may not be able to rise. Temperature, pulse and respiration, all are rather normal. Treatment should be directed to remove the cause of the disease. When there is colic or constipation, give purges. A half teaspoonful of extract of nux vomica, given in a pint of milk twice a day, is very good. Pouring cold water from a height and then immediately hot water sometimes greatly strengthens the muscles and has its use in treating. Rubbing the parts with mustard stimulates them, and in some cases good results. Paralysis resulting from injury usually disappears as the part returns to its normal state.