Acute inflammation of the uterus or womb is an exceedingly rare disease. The possibility of its occurrence warrants a brief consideration.

A traumatic origin such as a blow or a kick might cause metritis, but quite unlikely. After whelping, if the labor has been long and exhausting, or surgical measures have been employed, the liability to inflammation of the womb is increased, especially if neglect or exposure follows.

Vaginal injections,if too hot or too cold, deserve mention as causative agents.

Symptoms

Fever is one of the earlier symptoms. Pain is prominent and is increased on pressure over the lower part of the bowels. An examination made by introducing the finger into the vagina shows the womb to be swollen and sensitive.

Vomiting is not an uncommon occurrence. Diarrhoea and frequent efforts to urinate, are other ordinary symptoms. The movements of the animal are stiff and painful.

The lining membrane of the womb is always involved in the inflammation, and as a result a vaginal discharge soon manifests itself.' This is purulent in character, rapidly assumes an extremely offensive odor, and irritates the vaginal passage and orifice which becomes hot and swollen. The disease is one of great gravity and especially so after whelping. If death does not ensue early in consequence of the purulent changes going on, the inflammation is liable to extend from the womb to the peritoneum, in which event there can be little or no hope.

Treatment

Opiates are indicated to control the pain. Unless vomiting occurs, laudanum in twenty drop doses at first would be the wiser preparation as it is easier to vary the quantity at will.

Warm vaginal injections may be frequently given, to which if the discharge becomes fetid, carbolic acid should be added. The proportion of acid should be about two teaspoonfuls to a quart of water. If necessary to relieve constipation, rectal injections are the better means to employ; if they prove insufficient, a dessertspoonful of castor oil should be given every three hours until operative. Perfect quiet is to be enforced.

The diet should be stimulating and concentrated. Beef tea with a raw egg should be given every two or three hours. If the pulse appears weak and flagging, brandy should be added to the nourishment.

After the inflammatory stage has passed, ten drops of the fluid extract of ergot may be given every six hours, and two grains of quinine four times a day.

If a bitch has had the good fortune to recover from acute metritis, she should not be bred until her second period.