Balanitis is the technical name given to inflammation of, and discharge of matter from, the mucous membrane of the prepuce, etc.

* For the dose, etc, refer to "Introductory Remarks."

Symptoms

The discharge may be either thick and purulent, or thin and consisting of mucus. By accumulating and hardening, the discharge may, for a time, stop up the orifice of the urethra, and impede the flow of urine. There is considerable irritation of the part, as indicated by the dog's manner, by his licking the organ, and by frequent erections. At a later period, there is considerable pain and constitutional disturbance; the part is red and swollen; the membrane becomes abraded with numerous small superficial ulcers, which gradually coalesce into a large ulcerated surface, from which there is a profuse puriform secretion. The pain and tenderness, and the difficulty of retracting the prepuce are thus much increased. Lastly, fungoid growths or exuberant granulations sprout up, adding much to the animal's pain and distress. Sometimes these growths take on the appearance of vascular warts. Whatever the structure of the growth may be, the discharge is tinged with blood; or pure blood even may exude. At first, the disease does not of necessity damage the general health, but when neglected, it always does so.

The disease does not appear to be brought on, nor to be communicable by contagion. It generally arises from accumulation of acrid secretion, - or from sympathy with disorder of the digestive organs. It co-exists with mange, canker, etc., and with a gross and plethoric condition of the system. The use of stimulating food may convert a simple disorder into a serious and intractable disease, attended with unhealthy ulceration.

Treatment

The part should be fomented twice a-day with warm water, and be kept perfectly clean.

The best topical application is Calendula lotion, * applied several times a-day. The infusion of Hydrastis* is another excellent dressing, when the discharge is profuse.

One grain of the first centesimal trituration of Mercurius solubilis should be given night and morning, either dry on the tongue, or in a little food.