PARALYSIS IN PIGS.

King Country Chronicle, Volume VII, Issue 602, 13 September 1913, Page 3

PARALYSIS IN PIGS.

Weakness of the hind quarters is a condition frequently seen in growing pigs, says a writer in an English journal. It is a form of paralysis and the exact cause cannot be stated for all cases One of the most applauaible explanations of paralysis in young pigs is improper feeding. A deficiency of mineral matter, especially lime saltb in the diet, is believed to be responsible for the majority of cases. The shortage of lime salts results in the improper development of the bones of the growing pig, and the condition known as "rickets." ° On the other hand, the diet may be all right, well balanced and wholesome, and yet the pigs may not be able to assimilate their food and get the proper nourishment from it; in this case the fault lies with the digestive organs. Pigs raised in damp quarters may develop weakness of the hindquarters, often said to be of a rheumatic nature. In this caae the remedy is self-arjparent. So it is evident that paralysis, rickets, mal-nutrition and rheumatism are similar conditions, as far as symptoms are concerned. The eame ganeral line of treatment is indicated if allthese conditions. Good, wholesome food, a well-balanced ration, plenty on fresh air and sunshine, with dry, clean, roomy, well-draied and ventilated pen?, are the first requisites. Then see that the pigs have access to a supply of mineral matter in the form of chare >al, bone meal, crushed limestone, wood ashes, and salt. For medical treatment, tonics are indicated, nux vomica being generally accepted as the best. The bowels should be kept moving freely by laxatives, as constipation is generally oresent. If treatment is started early recovery may be expected; but quite often these conditions are allowed to progress too long before receiving proper attention, and then treatment is usually of no avail.