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In rabies no constant or definite lesions are observed on postmortem examination. In fact the alterations are slight, variable, and almost absent at times, so that, unless there is a definite history of characteristic symptoms, a positive diagnosis cannot be made without recourse to microscopic examination or animal inoculations with material from the brain of the suspected animal. The most suggestive indication of rabies is the presence in the stomach of unusual bodies, such as stones, wood, earth, cloth, iron, and feathers. Frequently the stomach is empty of food but distended with material of this character. Its mucous membrane is frequently inflamed, and at times a marked reddening of the folds of the stomach, with or without erosions, is noticed. There may also be an inflammation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord as well as of the mucous lining of the mouth, throat, and respiratory tract. The feet of rabid dogs may present sores and bruises, denoting extensive travel during the period of roving. The heart and the surrounding membrane (pericardium) are often inflamed, but these and similar lesions are more frequently due to the condition of the animal before dying than to any specific alteration. The carcass undergoes rapid decomposition.