[Jacob-list] Bloat

[WenlochFrm at aol.com]

Foamy bloat is the result of changes in the bacteria/acids in the rumen and 
can be caused by overeating grain, legume pastures or fresh, green legume hay 
especially clover or alfalfa. A too sudden change in diet also can be 
responsible. 

Access to baking soda will help keep the proper pH balance in the rumen and 
prevent bloat. Make it available to the sheep just as you do mineral 
supplements in a separate feeder.

Once the lamb has frothy bloat, you can administer (via stomach tube) 
vegetable oil  and Mylanta II (2 - 4 oz of each). You can also add a couple 
of ounces of Pepto Bismol.

If you don't know how to use a stomache tube, write back and I'll give you 
instructions. Hope this helps.

Joan Franklin   

            
In a message dated 7/7/00 11:06:50 AM Eastern Daylight Time, 
SteffArce at aol.com writes:

> If someone can help with questions of bloat:
>  It seems the bloat problem I have experienced started after purchasing 2nd 
>  cutting of alfalfa that was a year old (barn stored). I had picked up a 
ton 
>  to hold me over till 3rd cutting from my regular supplier.
>  Could this alfalfa been toxic to the sheep with regular feeding amounts 
over 
> 
>  a 2 month period?   Especially for the lambs?
>  
>  My ewe lamb now has her mild bloat problem resolved and I didn't have to 
> feed 
>  her small amounts 4 times a day since yesterday.
>