Wholemeal refers to the entire wheat plant, including the straw, kernels, and bran, all still connected. During the wheat harvest season, cattle and sheep often have access to these whole plants, which are highly palatable. As a result, animals tend to eat large quantities quickly, sometimes leading to overconsumption. Whole wheat is dry, fibrous, and elastic, making it difficult for the animal to chew and digest properly. It can become entangled in the stomach, leading to poor rumination. Additionally, it contains substances that promote foam formation, which can cause severe bloat—difficult to manage and potentially life-threatening.
Symptoms of rapid abdominal distension include a swollen left flank, a gurgling or semi-muffled sound when pressing on the area, rapid breathing, restlessness, and frequent kicking. As the condition worsens, the animal may experience difficulty breathing, unsteady walking, and blue-purple discoloration of the mucous membranes. The eyes may appear sunken and dull, and without prompt treatment, the animal may die.
Treatment for this condition requires immediate action. Because the gas is frothy and doesn’t easily collect in the rumen, traditional puncture methods may not be effective. Instead, a stomach tube can be inserted through the esophagus to help expel both gas and liquid. One person can press on the abdomen to assist with gas release. A defoaming agent such as "silicone defoamer" is recommended: 15 grams for cattle and 5 grams for sheep, mixed with 20–30 times the volume of water and administered via the stomach tube. After administration, the animal should be kept warm and given some time to recover. At this point, a puncture of the rumen becomes more effective for gas release. If silicone defoamer is unavailable, turpentine can be used as an alternative, though it is less effective. Dosage: 30 ml for cows and 10 ml for sheep, diluted with soybean oil in a 1:10 ratio and administered via the stomach tube. Once the foam is broken and gas is released, most animals recover successfully. In cases of repeated episodes, surgical intervention may be necessary, involving incision of the rumen to remove the contents.
Prevention is always better than cure. It’s crucial to avoid letting livestock consume whole wheat during harvest seasons. When transporting wheat or working with animals, using a mouth cage is essential to prevent them from eating the plant material. Proper management and feeding practices can significantly reduce the risk of this serious condition.
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