Bloat

Overview

Bloat occurs when gas produced during digestion becomes trapped in the rumen, causing distension of the abdomen. It can develop quickly and become life-threatening without intervention.

Signs

Visible distension on the left side of the abdomen
Discomfort, kicking at the belly
Labored breathing
Reluctance to move

Free-Gas Bloat

Relieve gas pressure with tube
Give Banamine
If it has a fever treat with Nuflor
Feed only prairie hay for at least 12 hours

If it bloats again or doesn’t go down when tubed, call for help.

Warning

Severe bloat can be fatal within hours. If an animal shows significant distension or difficulty breathing, contact LVR immediately.

Prevention

Introduce cattle to lush pasture gradually
Provide adequate dry hay/roughage before turnout onto legume-heavy pasture