Bloat

Bloat is a seasonal problem in both dairy and beef cattle. It is usually precipitated by the rapid consumption of lush legume pasture species (e.g. clover and lucerne). Occasionally some rye grass species high in soluble protein are also implicated.

Bloat is caused by an increase in the gas pressure within the rumen as the bacteria ferment the feeds.

The gas becomes trapped within a stable foam and cannot be belched up. Death occurs when the pressure of the rumen becomes so great that the heart and lungs fail. Anti-bloat oils may be sprayed onto pasture before grazing. Increasing the fibre content of the diet by supplying hay, straw or silage will help reduce bloating, but many animals will eat the lush pasture in preference to the other forages.

Also, when risk is severe, it can be beneficial to medicate cattle with a sustained release capsule containing monensin at least one week before introducing them to high legume pasture.