Colic most often attacks the small intestines, though the disease is by no means confined to those parts. It first occurs on a limited space; presently it vanishes altogether, and afterward reappears on some distant portion of the alimentary canal; or, in other words, colic dodges about, its attacks becoming more numerous and the intermissions shorter as the period of its commencement grows more distant. Change of water, change of food, getting wet, fatiguing journeys, are all likely to originate it; but, perhaps, it is most frequently exhibited when no known cause is in operation. Aloes, however, are proved to be among the surest provocatives of this disease. Many horses cannot swallow pure aloes in any form, without being severely griped. For such animals, the following drench is recommended, instead of the above-named drug in substance:-- Sulphuric ether and laudanum, of each One ounce. Compound tincture of aloes made with diluted spirits of wine Five ounces. Cold water One pint. [Illustration: THE FIRST STAGE OF SPASMODIC COLIC.] If greater strength be requisite, obtain it by the addition of tincture of gentian, every ounce of which is equal, when combined, to one drachm of aloes. Colic always commences suddenly; it starts into life ready armed for mischief. The animal may be apparently well and feeding. Without visible cause the head is raised and the occupation ceases. Should the pain last, the hind foot is lifted to strike the belly, and the fore leg begins to scrape the pavement. The groom, who has merely left to procure a pail of water from an adjacent pump, on his return discovers his charge exhibiting evident signs of uneasiness. As the man stares, wondering what can be the matter, the horse is pawing and the nose slowly points to the flank. All then is explained. =Fret= is the matter, and it would be "_fret_," should the disease prove to be of a very different nature. While the horse is being watched, every indication of disturbance may disappear. The countenance tranquilizes and the nose is again inserted into the manger. A few minutes elapse and the pangs are renewed. The second fit may last longer and be slightly more severe. Then another, but a shorter period of ease follows: thus the visitations will ensue upon spaces of entire exemption from anguish. The recommencement of agony usually is denoted by a disposition to lie down. The animal crouches; next it turns round as though the intention was to stretch out the limbs; but suddenly the erect attitude is assumed--the design, lately so nearly executed, having been forgotten. Then pawing and striking at the abdomen quickly follow; and while the horse looks toward the flank, a morbid fire is perceptible in the eye. [Illustration: THE SECOND STAGE OF SPASMODIC COLIC.]