A group of approximately 40 Holstein heifers suddenly shows signs of anorexia and decreased rumination. Some animals appear more depressed and severely affected than others. The history reveals that the previous day, large quantities of corn flakes (approximately 8-9 kg/head) were accidentally distributed in the feed alley of the heifer pen in question, raising suspicion of a severe form of acute ruminal acidosis.
Metabolic assessment of the most severely affected animals is performed to determine prognosis and potential therapy.
Below is the BLOOD GAS ANALYSIS of one of the 5 heifers in the group that died within a few days, after presenting severe general symptoms from the outset: paresis, depression of consciousness, sunken eyes, very liquid and "lifeless" rumen content, T 38 °C, soft and yellowish feces.
BGA: severe ACIDEMIA, very low Base Excess.
Despite this, the pCO2 trending toward RESPIRATORY ACIDOSIS and the very low pO2 highlight hypoventilation and poor oxygen exchange.
