G74-149 Bloat Prevention and Treatment

Authors

Rick Stock, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Richard J. Rasby, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow
Duane Rice, University of Nebraska - Lincoln

Date of this Version

1974

Document Type

Article

Comments

© 1974, The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska on behalf of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln Extension. All rights reserved.

Abstract

This NebGuide discusses the types of bloat which may occur in cattle and methods to prevent and treat bloat.

Bloat is a form of indigestion marked by an excessive accumulation of gas in the rumen. Immediately after cattle consume a meal, the digestive process creates gases in the rumen. Most of the gases are eliminated by eructation (belching). Gases that are trapped and not eructated may form a foam or froth in the rumen which further prevents their elimination. Froth formation can be caused by many factors resulting from interactions between the animal, rumen microorganisms, and differences in plant biochemistry.