ost important object in an impending abortion is to recognize it at
as early a stage as possible, so that it may, if possible, be cut short
and prevented. Any general, indefinable illness in a pregnant mare
should lead to a close examination of the vulva as regards swelling,
vascularity of its mucous membrane, and profuse mucus secretion, and,
above all, any streak or staining of blood; also the condition of the
udder, if that is congested and swollen. Any such indication, with
colicky pains, straining, however little, and active movement of the
fetus or entire absence of movement, are suggestive symptoms and should
be duly counteracted.

The changes in the vulva and udder, with a soiled and bloody condition
of the tail, may suggest an abortion already accomplished, and the
examination with the hand in the vagina may detect the mouth of the womb
soft and dilatable and the interior of the organ slightly filled with a
bloody liquid.

_Treatment_ should be preventive if possible, and would embrace the
avoidance of all causes mentioned, and particularly of such as may seem
to be particularly operative in the particular case. If abortions have
already occurred in a stud, the especial cause in the matter of feed,
water, exposure to injuries, overwork, lack of exercise, etc., may often
be identified and removed. A most important point is to avoid all causes
of constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, bloating, violent purgatives,
diuretics or other potent medicines, painful operations, and slippery
roads, unless well frosted.

When abortion is imminent, the mare should be placed alone in a roomy,
dark, quiet stall, and have the straining checked by some sedative.
Laudanum is usually at hand and may be given in doses of 1 or 2 ounces,
according to size, and repeated after two or three hours, and even daily
if necessary. Chloroform or chloral hydrate, 3 drams, may be substituted
if more convenient. These should be given in a pint or quart of water,
to avoid burning the mouth and throat. Or _Viburnum prunifolium_ (black
haw), 1 ounce, may be given and repeated if necessary to prevent
straining.

When all measures fail and miscarriage proceeds, all that can be done is
to assist in the removal of the fetus and its membranes, as in ordinary
parturition. As in the case of retention of the fetus, it may be
necessary after delivery to employ antiseptic injections into the womb
to counteract putrid fermentation. This, however, is less n