Bloat is an over distention of the rumen with the gases of fermentation
Intensively fed cattle typically have a high proportion of cereals in their diet, which quickly produces gas during digestion (Galyean M. L. and Rivera J. D. 2003), (Wang Y. et al. 2012).
Cattle on these diets are not able to expel gas fast enough during rumination, due to the small quantity of long fiber in the diet.
Cattle grazing on legumes, winter wheat or highly fermentable grass pastures may be susceptible to develop bloat as well (Plaizier et al., 2022).
The foamy substrate is comprised primarily of polysaccharides secreted by rumen bacteria and released from disrupted bacterial cells. This happens when large populations of bacteria die in a short period of time.
More efficient rumen fermentation means less energy is wasted as methane and also less protein is lost as ammonia.
FAQ About Ruminant Bloat
Bloat can be caused by:
- Diets high in rapidly fermentable carbohydrates (e.g., finely ground grains)
- Grazing on lush legumes like alfalfa or clover
- Low fiber intake, which reduces rumination and saliva production
Disruption of rumen microbial populations
Common signs include:
- Swelling on the left side of the abdomen
- Discomfort or restlessness
- Labored breathing
- Kicking at the belly
- Collapse in severe cases
Treatment depends on the type and severity:
- Mild cases: Walking the animal or administering anti-foaming agents orally
- Severe cases: Emergency rumen puncture (trocarization) or rumenotomy by a veterinarian
- Free-gas bloat: May require passing a stomach tube to release trapped gas