time, but we can make a general estimate of the quantity passed by
carefully observing the animal and noting the condition of the bedding in
the stall. The sample of urine to be examined is best taken from urine
collected at different periods during the day. We should note its color and
consistency. The different substances in the urine can be determined only
by determining the specific gravity, testing with certain chemical reagents
and by making a microscopic examination of the sediment. Normal urine from
the horse may be turbid or cloudy and more or less slimy, because of the
presence of mucin. This is less true of other species. In disease the color
of the urine may be changed to a pale yellow, red or brown. For example, in
congestion of the kidneys the urine is light in color and rather
transparent; in southern cattle fever it may be red; and in azoturia it may
be brown.

EXCESSIVE URINATION.--The horse is the most common sufferer from excessive
secretion of urine. The most common _causes_ are musty feeds, such as hay,
grain and shipped feeds. New oats, succulent feeds and acrid plants may
sometimes cause it. In the fall of the year, when the season is changing
from warm to cool weather and the horse eliminates less water from the body
by way of the skin, the kidneys may become more active and the quantity of
urine secreted be greatly increased. This, however, is a normal
physiological condition and should not be confused with this disease.

The first _symptom_ noted is the frequent passing of a large quantity of
urine. The animal drinks more water than usual and the appetite is poor.
Dulness and a weak, emaciated condition are prominent symptoms. Death
occurs unless the cause of the disease is removed. If the poisonous
substance has been acting for some time, it is difficult to cure the
animal.