As more western Canadian cattle producers graze their cattle on standing corn fields, rumen acidosis (grain overload) has become a significant concern.

Rumen acidosis occurs when cattle ingest large quantities of carbohydrate-rich feeds. When this rich feed ferments in the rumen, it causes the pH level to drop and acid-producing microbes to flourish. The excess acid can damage the rumen, affect its function and inhibit nutrient absorption.

Clinical signs of the condition include lack of feed intake and rumination, lethargy and diarrhea. Producers can use portable fencing to ensure limited access to the corn while also providing hay which slows the fermentation process and maintains a healthy pH level in the rumen.

Click here to read a Western Producer article featuring Dr. Bart Lardner of the University of Saskatchewan's College of Agriculture and Bioresources.