By Andi Anderson
Farmers are being warned to monitor their cattle closely for frothy bloat during the spring grazing season. This condition occurs when fermentation gases become trapped in foam inside the rumen, preventing normal gas release. The result is rapid swelling, breathing difficulty, and even death if not treated quickly.
Frothy bloat is caused by cattle consuming high-protein, low-fibre forages like alfalfa, white clover, and young wheat. These feeds produce gas quickly and increase rumen fluid thickness, trapping gas in foam. The risk is highest in early spring when pastures are lush and wet from dew or rain.
Symptoms include a swollen left flank, restlessness, breathing trouble, and sudden collapse. If not addressed quickly, the animal can die within an hour. Treatment includes administering anti-foaming agents like poloxalene or using emergency methods such as a trocar or surgery in severe cases.
To prevent bloat, cattle should not be moved to new legume-heavy pastures when they are hungry or when the forage is wet. Instead, feed hay before turnout and move them at midday. Farmers should also offer poloxalene products, either mixed into feed or available through blocks or mineral supplements.
Other prevention methods include rotational grazing with mature grasses, providing clean water, maintaining calcium and mineral balance, and choosing bloat-resistant legumes. The feed additive monensin can also reduce gas buildup and improve growth.
Even with all precautions, frothy bloat can be unpredictable and deadly. Early observation is key. Farmers are encouraged to act quickly if symptoms appear and contact a veterinarian in emergencies.
Frothy bloat may cause yearly losses of about 2%, but rates can be much higher in some pastures. Staying alert and informed is the best defence against this springtime cattle health threat.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fotokostic
Categories: Ohio, Livestock