Etiology - Primary bloat

FROTHY BLOAT

Primary ruminal tympany (frothy bloat)

  • Inhibition of Coalescence of the small gas bubbles
  • Production of stable foam

Pasture bloat

  • The vital factor is the frothiness of ruminal contents. The stable dispersion of feed particles are responsible for the frothiness. There is also slower clearance of ruminal contents that enhances microbial activity and gas production.  Soluble leaf protein may contribute to frothiness. 

Feedlot bloat

  • Feedlot bloat is due to feeding finely ground grain. High carbohydrate content increases encapsulated bacteria that produce slimes. The slime entraps the gases of fermentation. Maximum stability of foam occurs at pH of about 6. 
Last modified: Wednesday, 22 February 2012, 5:00 AM