Bloat can be of several types: grain, grass or legume bloat. Animals fed a high grain diet can produce bloat. Also, animals grazing on lush green pastures containing high amounts of soluble protein can get frothy bloat similar to legume bloat.To avoid these conditions, feed dry long hay when feeding grain to stimulate saliva production and decrease bloat. To prevent frothy bloat, always provide some dry hay before releasing goats to consume fresh pastures especially in the spring when there is a rapid growth. After 2 to 3 weeks of this practice you may reduce the hay and animals will be adjusted to their diet. Drenching with PEG (polyethylene glycol) reduces surface tension and may diminish bloat.

Back to Metabolic Disorders