CAUSE

Ingestion of large amounts of highly fermentable carbohydrates.

 SYMPTOMS

During early stage animal is depressed but still fairly bright and alert and a soft faeces dirrahoea is common. Rumen movement slow but not entirely absent. Temp below normal, heart rate increased. On later stages due to severity of acidosis and circulatory failure, respiration usually shallow. Diarrhoea almost always present and usually profuse dehydration. Death may occur within 24-72 hrs.

 TREATMENT

Correct ruminal and systemic acidosis with alkalinizing agents parenterally or orally depending on severity. Restore forestomach and intestinal motility by providing good palatable hay, fluid and electrolyte therapy as required.

 CONTROL

Prevent accidental access to grain. During late pregnancy and early lactation, careful feeding and management of dairy cattle.