F288
Grain Overload (Acidosis)

Introduction: This problem is often diagnosed because the producer observes or knows the animal has consumed excessive amounts of concentrates. When excess grain is consumed, the pH of the rumen decreases and becomes more acidic. This change in pH causes certain bugs (protozoa, bacteria) to die off, while others tend to proliferate.

Clinical Signs:
  1. At first, the animal may be lethargic, off feed, and even bloated.
  2. The animal might have diarrhea.
  3. As the problem progresses, the oral membranes can become pale due to toxic shock.
  4. In severe cases, the animal may be down and unable to rise.
  5. Lameness on a flock or herd-wide basis may be the only sign noticed.

Diagnosis:
  1. Obtain a rumen sample:
    1. The most accurate way of testing pH is to perform a rumenocentesis (rumen tap). Taking a rumen sample by rumenocentesis requires additional training by a local veterinarian.
    2. Another way of obtaining a rumen sample involves passing an oral tube into the rumen and withdrawing a sample. Once obtained, the sample can be tested using a pH meter or strip. This method is not as accurate as taking a direct sample from the rumen by rumenocentesis.
    3. A final way of measuring pH is by testing the fresh feces of the animal using a pH meter or strip. This is probably the least accurate method of the three.

  2. A rumen pH of less than 5.5 indicates an acidosis problem.

Treatment:
  1. For very mild cases of acidosis, Magnalax boluses can be used.
  2. All other cases should be given a 5% sodium bicarbonate intravenous (IV) solution (see F145).
  3. An oral tube should be placed in the rumen and the following should be administered to the adult animal:
    • 1/4 of a gallon of mineral oil.
    • Sodium bicarbonate or Magnesium hydroxide (Magnalax) powder should be given at 0.45 grams per pound of body weight.
    • Mix the mineral oil, powder, and a small amount of water together and administer them orally to the animal; repeat every 4-6 hours, if necessary.
  4. Banamine can be given according to recommendations. See page H60.
  5. Thiamine supplementation (5 mg/lb, 3 times a day) is also recommended.
  6. If the above treatments do not seem to resolve the problem, blood work and/or rumenotomy may be required.

* Before initiating any treatment, CONSULT A VETERINARIAN!