The description of Osteo Sarcoma which I am about
to give, is based on examples obtained in Tasmania.
Osteo-Sarcoma, or what is called cancer
in cattle, is a disease affecting the lower jaw in most cases, and on
very rare occasions the upper jaw, is most frequently met with in steers, cows, and bulls in the order named between the age of two
and six years The favourite side of origin of the disease is at the second or third molar teeth.
It will be noticed that Mr. Kendall attributes the prevalence of
the disease to hereditary transmision as one of the chief causes. In
Tasmania where there is so much in breeding, it is quite possible
that constitutional diseases may be handed down from one herd
to another until in a country of limited area like this island, we find
after the lapse of years that the whole of the stock is more or less
affected.
Another recommendation to be made is the removal and improvement
in the working of the slaughteryards or abattoirs.
A suggestion I may make is the establishment of a hulk or
floating sheds in the river as an abattoir, where drainage and
cleanliness could be perfectly maintained. Animals should be
yarded or enclosed on shore prior to slaughtering, and all diseased
viscera and condemned meat burnt.
Lastly, all cases of diseased cattle within the city boundary should
be reported to the Municipal authorities, or to a Government Stock
Office; and inspection should thereupon take place by a competent
veterinary surgeon
