development of and infection of the tissues with the above germs. Wound
infection is most common during hot weather.

_The symptoms are both general and local_. The tissues in the region of the
wound become swollen and painful. In malignant oedema the swelling pits on
pressure, and if the wound is open, the surface becomes soft and may
slough. The body temperature may be several degrees above the normal, the
appetite is impaired or the animal stops eating and acts sleepy. A small
amount of highly-colored urine may be passed. Nervous symptoms, such as
muscular twitching, excited condition, delirium and paralysis, may be
noted.

[Illustration: FIG. 99.--Bacillus of malignant oedema, showing spores.]

[Illustration: FIG. 100.--Bacillus of malignant oedema.]

_The prognosis is unfavorable_. In pyaemia the animal may live from a few
days to several months. Septicaemia usually terminates fatally in from two
to ten days.

_The treatment is largely preventive_. Wounds should be given prompt
attention. They should be freed from all foreign substances and washed with
a disinfecting solution. A contused-lacerated wound should not be sutured
if this interferes with the cleansing of it, and the escape of the wound
secretions. All punctured wounds should be enlarged so as to permit of
treatment and drainage.

HEMORRHAGIC SEPTICAEMIA.--An acute infectious disease of ruminants and
swine, characterized by hemorrhages in the different body tissues that
appear as small red spots or blotches.