Start Date
2-22-2001 2:30 PM
Description
Bloat refers to excessive accumulation of gas in the rumen. Bloat results when an animal can not eructate or "belch up" gases produced in the process of rumen fermentation. The gas may be in the free form or may be mixed with rumen contents in the form of froth. It occurs both on pasture and in feedlots and can be a major cause of death in cattle wherever intensive farming is practiced. Additional losses can include decreased milk production and reduced rate of gain. Although legumes may increase the opportunity for bloat to occur, fear of bloat should not keep you from using high quality legumes, such as alfalfa and clover, in your pasture. Reducing the endophyte effects of fescue with legumes is important for improved animal performance.
Included in
Reducing the Risk of Bloat
Bloat refers to excessive accumulation of gas in the rumen. Bloat results when an animal can not eructate or "belch up" gases produced in the process of rumen fermentation. The gas may be in the free form or may be mixed with rumen contents in the form of froth. It occurs both on pasture and in feedlots and can be a major cause of death in cattle wherever intensive farming is practiced. Additional losses can include decreased milk production and reduced rate of gain. Although legumes may increase the opportunity for bloat to occur, fear of bloat should not keep you from using high quality legumes, such as alfalfa and clover, in your pasture. Reducing the endophyte effects of fescue with legumes is important for improved animal performance.