A larger space has been purposely devoted to the last topics, in preference to the subject of diseases, as prevention is not only less troublesome than cure, but much more economical. Feeding and management, after breeding, are really the important objects in view to the Stock-breeder and Grazier, for if these be judiciously attended to, disease among the herds will rarely be known. The subject of animal diseases is complicated and little understood; and to be properly comprehended, requires years close, intelligent study, under every advantage for obtaining the necessary information. Nearly every disorder assumes various shades of difference, and to remove it effectually a corresponding change of treatment is required. How absurd then the idea, that a compilation of formal remedies, administered by an unskilful or inexperienced manager, will be of material service in rescuing his herds or flocks from the ravages of disease. All that can consistently be done, is to give a few simple remedies for the most common and well-known ailments, and leave to nature or a professional farrier, such as are more complex or unusual. This work (with many subsequent and important additions) constitutes a small part of the "Compend of American Agriculture," the favorable reception of which, though but recently given to the public, has induced the writer to offer this important division of the subject in its present detached form. New York, November, 1847 INDEX. PAGE Animals, domestic, reared in the U. States 9 their number and value 9 their improvement 10 adaptation to various objects 10 general form and characteristics 13 the lungs 14 respiration 14 effects of 17 perspiration 18 food which supplies respiration 18 circumstances which augment respiration 19 food 21 purposes fulfilled by food 22 nutritive qualities for various animals 23 profit of feeding 23 See CATTLE, SHEEP, &c.