Influence of fiber form in a complete mixed ration on incidence of left displaced abomasum in postpartum dairy cows.
During the fall of 1982, increased incidence of left displaced abomasum (LDA) was seen in a group of cows fed a complete pelleted ration (3/16 inch) at the university's dairy center during the early postpartum period. Of these, 17.4% developed LDA when fed this experimental ration, whereas only 1.6% of the remaining cows in the herd developed LDA. The latter cows (as a control) were fed loose alfalfa hay, sorghum silage, and an 18% crude protein mix. Most of the fiber in the experimental diet or pelleted diet was alfalfa hay (30% as-fed basis) that was ground through a quarter-inch screen for incorporation into the pellet. Another 10% of the dietary fiber was contributed by cottonseed hulls. Thus, increased incidence of LDA may be associated with short length of the dietary fiber in the pelleted form.
Dawson
L J
LJ
Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater 74078.
Aalseth
E P
EP
Rice
L E
LE
Adams
G D
GD
D000018:Abomasum; D000821:Animal Feed / Q000009:adverse effects*; D000818:Animals; D002417:Cattle; D002418:Cattle Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D004043:Dietary Fiber / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004044:Dietary Proteins / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005260:Female; D013272:Stomach Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000662:veterinary*
D004043:Dietary Fiber; D004044:Dietary Proteins