Prevention of bloat in pastured cattle

Using monensin sodium controlled release capsules (CRC)

Authors

  • L. B. Lowe Elanco Animal Health, 112 Wharf Road, West Ryde, NSW 2114, Australia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/bovine-vol1998no32.1p27-30

Keywords:

antibloat agents, beef cattle, bloat, controlled release, cows, dairy cows, digestive disorders, disease prevention, legumes, monensin, pasture legumes, pastures, silicon

Abstract

Bloat in cattle grazing legume pastures can depress production and cause death. Development of controlled release capsules (CRC) containing monensin for prevention of bloat is described. Early studies were based on CRC devices delivered 170 mg monensin/day in beef cattle. Significant live weight gains and reduction in both bloat and death were found. In dairy cows, devices which delivered 300 mg monensin/day reduced bloat and increased milk and protein yields. Inclusion of silicone glycol in the monensin CRC showed some benefits both in vitro and in vivo although a study on highly bloat susceptible dairy cows failed to show a difference.

Cover image of Volume 32.1 of the Bovine Practitioner: a copy of the painting "Summer Scenes" by Bonnie Mohr which depicts a herd of cattle standing in a field with a dramatic skyscape in the background. The lighting is very warm and many of the cows gaze placidly at the viewer.

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Published

1998-01-01

How to Cite

Lowe, L. B. (1998). Prevention of bloat in pastured cattle: Using monensin sodium controlled release capsules (CRC). The Bovine Practitioner, 1998(32.1), 27–30. https://doi.org/10.21423/bovine-vol1998no32.1p27-30

Issue

No. 32.1 (1998 January)

Section

Articles