By Andi Anderson
Rumen acidosis remains one of the most common digestive problems in feedlot cattle, especially when herds shift to high-concentrate diets. Since directly measuring rumen pH isn’t practical for everyday use, fecal scoring provides a simple and effective alternative to gauge rumen health.
Why Fecal Scoring Matters
The consistency and appearance of manure reveal much about the rumen’s condition. When cattle suffer from subacute or acute acidosis, feed passes through the rumen without proper digestion, leading to fermentation in the hindgut and changes in manure texture. By visually assessing manure, feeders can identify early warning signs of rumen imbalance.
What to Look For
Producers often use a 1–5 scale to describe fecal consistency:
- Score 1: Watery and loose, showing digestive upset.
- Score 2: Soft but still piles slightly; common during diet transitions.
- Score 3: Ideal “pudding-like” texture, reflecting good digestion.
- Score 4: Firm and stacked, indicating higher fiber or slower passage.
- Score 5: Very firm and dry, suggesting dehydration or excess fiber.
Loose or watery manure (scores 1–2), greyish tones, or mucus-like strands often indicate acidosis risk.
Putting It into Practice
Managers should track fecal consistency across pens and over time. Persistent loose manure can point to issues in feed delivery, bunk management, or diet formulation. Combining fecal observations with other signs—such as reduced cud chewing, off-feed behavior, or declining performance—can help confirm digestive stress.
Management Implications
Fecal scoring is not a standalone diagnostic tool but serves as a valuable addition to daily monitoring. Working with nutritionists, managers can adjust grain-to-forage ratios, feed particle size, delivery schedules, or buffer additives.
By including fecal scoring in their routine, feedlot operators can prevent acidosis, improve feed efficiency, and maintain healthier, more productive cattle herds.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: Ohio, Livestock