Effects of Oral Administration of Magnesium Sulfate on Bovine Rumen pH, Rumen Protozoa and Serum Magnesium

Authors

  • M. Badillo Faculté de médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2
  • J. Denis-Robichaud Faculté de médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2
  • S. Buczinski Faculté de médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2
  • M. Veillette Faculté de médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, St-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20114060

Keywords:

Magnesium oxide, Magnesium sulfate, laxative, protozoa, rumen pH, serum magnesium

Abstract

Magnesium oxide (MgO) is usually used in bovine practice for its laxative and antiacid properties. However, side effects of its use are an increase in rumen pH, a change in numbers of protozoa and higher peripheral Mg levels, all of which may slow down the recovery process of the animal. Magnesium sulfate (MgS04) offers an interesting alternative to MgO as laxative treatment. The association of magnesium with a weaker base such as the sulfate group may alleviate harmful side effects on rumen pH and protozoa. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of orally administered magnesium sulfate on rumen pH, rumen protozoa, and serum magnesium in cattle. In addition, fecal consistency scores will be used to monitor the laxative effect of magnesium sulfate.

Cover image of the 44th Conference Proceedings: photo of the skyline of St. Louis, Missouri, site of the 2011 AABP Conference. Yellow background.

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Published

2011-09-22

Issue

2011

Section

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