In the treatment of these troubles nothing reliable can be given, as the disease usually comes on without any warning and the animal dies suddenly. Much of the trouble can be avoided by allowing the animals only a limited amount of the feed or in the stalk field a few hours only each day. It is necessary that plenty of pure water should be given frequently and enough of other roughage to keep the animals from gorging themselves on the fodder.
=COW POX.=--An infectious disease passed from one cow to another. It affects herds in all parts of the world and is similar to smallpox in the human being, only it is not so fatal. When first affected the cow is feverish, slacks somewhat in the milk flow, and presents little red pimple-like spots around the teats. In a day or two these become enlarged and become blisters, containing within a watery fluid, which, if not broken, dry up themselves and form scabs, leaving the teat in time perfectly natural. Ordinarily, special treatment is not given. There is no objection, however, to providing a simple tonic composed of one-quarter pound saltpeter, one-quarter pound sulphur, and one-quarter pound ground gentian root. Give a teaspoonful of this night and morning in a mash. The teats should be bathed, just before milking, with any common disinfecting solution. If the sores are slow in healing, sweet oil, to which is added a little carbolic acid, will soon correct the trouble.
=CRIBBING.=--A habit of biting the manger or other objects, often sucking in the air at the same time. This bad habit is frequently called wind sucking. It is the result of a habit formed when young. There is really no cure when the habit is once formed, but different measures may be employed to lessen the fault. A broad strap firmly placed around the neck brings the desired effect with some individuals.
=CRIB SUCKERS.=--This bad habit usually begins in colt days. It may arise from a sore tooth. The colt, to relieve the feeling, bites the manger, and in so doing acquires the habit. When hanging on to the manger, air is sucked in and this frequently brings on colic. The best treatment is to break up the habit. Examine the mouth first to see if anything is wrong with the teeth. Muzzle while standing in the stable. The old cribbers never give up the habit.