Domestic Encyclopædia (1802)/Pelt-rot

PELT-ROT, a disorder incident to sheep, in which the hair or wool falls off spontaneously.—It arises from various causes, but more especially in consequence of a sudden change from scanty or bad provender to full feeding; also from a local weakness in the skin, which parts with the wool; and, lastly, from the Scab, loosening the hair at its roots.—This malady may be prevented by proper attention to the animals; by giving them wholesome food, and in regular proportions, particularly during the winter. Should it, however, originate from the scab, the removal of that distemper will also cure the pelt-rot.