This is a more or less chronic discharge from the vagina. From its frequently white, viscid nature it is known among studsmen as " the whites ", and as having its analogue in the human subject, passing under the same name. When white and glutinous in consistence it is also inodorous. In some instances it is of a sanious, foetid, purulent description, and particularly evil-smelling, and the skin is found excoriated where the matter has fallen upon it.

Anyone who is not in constant attendance upon a mare thus affected may be led into the error of supposing the malady has disappeared because the discharge is not observable while the standing posture is maintained. In some cases it is more especially noticeable when the creature has occasion to micturate, or when lying down gravitation favours its backward discharge.

When leucorrhoea has settled into a chronic form there is seldom much constitutional disturbance, but it is not consistent with a high level of health, and interferes with reproduction by irregular and imperfect oestra, uncertain behaviour towards the male, and frequent failure of service. The secretion of milk is diminished in proportion to the continuation and profuse nature of the discharge, and though the appetite may be maintained, there is some loss of flesh and condition. To discover the parts most implicated resort is had to an instrument known as the vaginascope (fig. 235).

The lining membrane of the canal is pallid, relaxed, and comparatively insensitive to the touch. This applies more especially to the vagina, from which there is a white, thick inodorous discharge, while in others a red, swollen membrane may also display a rough granulated surface. The os uteri fails to contract to its normal proportions, and the womb remains more or less flaccid.

Treatment

Thorough cleansing within and without, disinfection and removal of dried adherent matter from under and around the tail and hind-quarters, the injection of astringent agents, and the administration of mineral tonics. For the first-named purpose a solution of carbolic soap will prove suitable, for the second a weak solution of sulphate of zinc, or permanganate of soda, iodoform, or lysol. For the last the sulphate of iron and copper enjoy a high reputation, combined, maybe, with some vegetable bitter, as gentian root or cinchona.

A liberal diet, with a paddock for exercise and a hovel for rest, are conditions which the prudent horseman will certainly provide.