Medical Treatment.—If permitted by Government authorities, I would suggest the following treatment as being beneficial: In mild attacks of Foot and Mouth Disease benefits may be derived by cleanliness and the applications of antiseptics as placing Boracic Acid, one dram; Potassium Chlorate, two drams, in a bucket of water, compelling the animal to drink it. Repeat this dose two or three times a day. Also compel the animals to stand in tubs or troughs containing a one in one thousandth solution of Bichloride of Mercury for at least five minutes, twice daily. When other parts of the body become affected, as the cow’s udder, apply Carbolated Vaseline twice daily. This treatment should be continued until all ulcers have ceased to discharge. Always keep in mind that this disease is contagious and is transmitted to other animals, as well as to man. For disinfecting corrals, barns, clothing, hands and anything which the diseased animal might come in contact with, I would recommend Coal Tar products, diluted one part to fifty parts warm water. Spray, sprinkle or scrub.
FOOT ROT.
(Foul in Foot)
Cause.—Due to filth or from hard substances accumulating between the two digits, producing irritation and inflammation and suppuration.
Symptoms.—Lameness. On examination the foot is swollen, hot and painful to the touch. When the case is of long standing, suppuration occurs and pus will ooze from between the digits, and is very offensive in smell. This condition causes the digits to slough off, if no attempt is made to relieve it.
Treatment.—Cleanliness. Where there is considerable inflammation present, apply Hot Bran or Flaxseed poultices. Keep clean and treat as an ordinary wound. The following prescription will be found very effective in Foot Rot: Oil of Origanum, four ounces; Oil of Pisis, four ounces; Oil of Turpentine, four ounces. Saturate oakum or cotton with the above liniment placing between the digits and bandage. Feed laxative food, as hot wheat bran mashes and vegetables.
FOUNDER.
(Laminitis)
Inflammation of the internal, sensitive structure of the foot.
Cause.—Overfeeding, overheating, driving on rough, stony soil. Cattle compelled to stand on hard floors without exercise frequently suffer from Founder.