INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS.
Cause.—Injuries in the region of the kidneys, exposure to cold weather, especially in cows soon after calving. Eating poisonous plants, decomposed food or drinking stagnant water, irritating medicines given ignorantly of their bad effects are frequently followed by inflammation of the kidneys.
Symptoms.—The attack will first be noticed by slight shivering or chilling followed by an increased temperature, breathing increased. The animal attempts to urinate frequently and the amount passed is small and of a dark amber color and may be flaked with blood. There will be stiffness and straddling of the hind legs which is always present during urinary disorders. There may be slight swelling and tenderness over the kidneys. As the disease progresses the animal grows weak and finally dies if prompt relief is not afforded. Fortunately this disease is not common among cattle.
Treatment.—Clothe the animal if the weather is cold. Mild physics are beneficial, as Aloin, one and one-half drams; Ginger, two drams; Nux Vomica, two drams, placed in a gelatin capsule and given with capsule gun. Also, the following, which is very soothing to the urinary tract: Potassium Acetate, Potassium Bromide, each four ounces, made into sixteen powders. Give one powder every four hours in their drinking water. Feed nitrogenous food as hot wheat bran mashes, steamed rolled oats, and see that the animal has pure water to drink.