The larger intestine contains a quantity of dry, glistening pellets, and much mucus.
Treatment follows the lines of impaction of rumen, though the response is usually less certain, and always slower. Flax-seed tea, several bucketfuls per day, will often succeed.
Epsom and common salts, with sol. ammoniæ, excite thirst; liquids should be supplied freely.
In obstinate cases, and in absence of gastric or cerebral congestion, 20 croton beans, or 20 drops of croton oil, may be added to the purgative. Nux vomica stimulates the nervous supply. Enemata may be given freely.
Other remedies, stimulating contractility and secretion, are: Eserine, 1½ grains; veratrine, 1 grain; barium chloride, 10 to 15 grains; or pilocarpin, 3 grains, hypodermically.
The patient may be days or even a week without alvine discharge and recover.
If fever and symptoms of gastric congestion appear, a blister may be applied to the right side over the omasum.
Nervous symptoms, such as dilated pupils, blindness, congested mucous membrane, hot horns and ears, drowsiness or excitement, are combated by applying cold water or ice to poll, etc.
When free action of the bowels is restored, laxative diet, roots (pulped), green food, plenty of common salt, and free access to drinking water should be prescribed.
During convalescence a course of tonics, including nux vomica, is advisable to help in restoring normal gastric functions.