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Concentrate feed sheep to prevent rumen acidosis
It is well known that feeding sheep with concentrates can lead to seizures, but an imbalanced diet—especially when the proportion of coarse and finely ground feeds is not properly managed—can be harmful. Overfeeding concentrates such as corn, broad beans, peas, barley, rice, and bran may cause serious health issues, including ruminal acidosis and even tumors in severe cases.
Acute ruminal acidosis in sheep typically begins without noticeable changes in appetite or milk production. However, shortly after feeding, affected animals may show signs of discomfort, such as reluctance to move, unstable gait, shortness of breath, wheezing, and increased heart rate. Most cases result in death within 3 to 5 hours. Before dying, the sheep may extend their tongues, shake their heads, emit cries, and have frothy, blood-tinged fluid coming from their mouths.
In slower-onset cases, the sheep may initially appear excited, shaking their heads, then gradually become depressed, lose their appetite, and develop sunken eyes with red conjunctiva, indicating severe dehydration. Some ewes may lie down after lambing, showing symptoms like nasal discharge, teeth grinding, and closed eyelids, appearing lethargic. Their left abdomen may swell, and when touched, the rumen contents feel soft and dough-like.
Most affected sheep maintain a normal body temperature, though some may show slight fever early or late in the disease. Thirst is common, with excessive drinking and reduced urine output or even anuria. Diarrhea is also frequently observed. Ruminal acidosis can develop rapidly, and many acute cases go unnoticed until the animal dies within a few hours.
Prevention is key. The best approach is to feed concentrates—especially grains—at levels that do not exceed recommended guidelines for different types of sheep. For pregnant, postpartum, or nursing ewes, who are more vulnerable, it's important to provide high-quality roughage. When mixing fine feed with dry fodder, the amount should not exceed 250–500 grams per meal. In cases where large amounts of concentrate or milk are needed, adding 2% sodium bicarbonate to the diet can help prevent acidosis.
For treatment, a comprehensive approach is essential:
1. Administer 500–1000 ml of physiological saline or 10% glucose and sodium chloride intravenously to increase blood volume and replenish fluids and electrolytes.
2. Inject 20–30 ml of 5% sodium bicarbonate intravenously to correct acidosis and balance body pH.
3. Use antibiotics via intramuscular injection to prevent secondary infections.
4. If the sheep shows excitement or restlessness, administer 25–30 ml of 20% mannitol or 25% sorbitol intravenously to calm them down.
5. Once symptoms improve and dehydration is controlled, give 20–30 ml of calcium gluconate intravenously to boost calcium levels, strengthen heart function, enhance immunity, and reduce vascular leakage.
By taking these steps, farmers can better manage and prevent this dangerous condition in their flocks.
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Concentrate feed sheep to prevent rumen acidosis