When the lung is cut apart with the knife further observation should be made. A marble appearance indicates inflammation and hard lumps or tubercles indicate tuberculosis. These tubercles, when cut open, show pus and a cheeselike material, yellow in color—a true indication of the disease.
Other Observations.
—You should feel the heart to know if it is natural or not, or to see if any of the valves are broken, or if some inflammation has been back of the trouble. The sides of the open cavity should be observed before leaving. Is it spotted, speckled? Are pink spots seen about the ribs? This is an indication of hog cholera, and in itself may lead to a correct interpretation of the disease.
CHAPTER VII
Common Medicines and Their Actions
The common medicines used in treating farm animals are named in the following list, together with origin, action, use, and dose.
ACONITE
Tincture of aconite is derived from the root of a plant. When used, the heart beats more slowly and the blood pressure is decreased, making the medicine desirable in cases of inflammation.
Dose: For horses and cattle, from 10 to 30 drops, and sheep and hogs 5 to 10 drops.