Apoplexy
In consequence of that plethora, which is the result of over-feeding in fattening, sheep are quite liable to apoplexy, and when in this condition they are driven rapidly some distance in warm weather, they are quite liable to a fit of this disease.
Symptoms.—Generally there are some symptoms which indicate that an animal is about to have a fit of this very frequent complaint. These are: Dullness; frequent standing still, or remaining behind the others, the breathing is quickened; it seems sleepy and unaware of what is going on around; the eyes appear as if they were blind; the pupils are reddened and nostrils dilated; pulse is quick and hard; the membranes of the nose and eyes are red; then, from standing fixed as it were in one place, it staggers and falls; then is violently convulsed, and, unless relieved, death speedily ensues.
Treatment.—The A.A., if given before the convulsion, a dose of three or five drops, will often arrest its farther progress. If the fit has taken place, give the medicine at once, and repeat the dose again after the animal gets over it, should it survive the fit.
Louping Ill
This disease is more common in the spring of the year when it attacks sheep and particularly lambs.
It begins with twitching and tremblings; sometimes even convulsions. The animal falls and may even leap into the air. This is later followed by paralysis of part of the body, and the head being drawn to one side.
This disease is due to bacteria which are transmitted to the sheep by the grass tick. No cure is known. Diseased sheep should be killed and the rest of the flock dipped for Scab, as on page [211].
Trotters—Nibblers
This is a disease somewhat like louping ill but appears to be heriditary.