The control of bloat with medicated molasses blocks

Authors: Graham CA, Barr DA
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 26, Issue 5, pp 117-119, May 1978
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Cattle, Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant
Subject Terms: Abdomen, Alimentary system/gastroenterology, Biosecurity, Disease/defect, Disease control/eradication, Epidemiology, Treatment/therapy
Article class: Scientific Article

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Abstract: Four field trials were conducted to determine the ability of a teric-medicated block to control bloat in beef and non-lactating dairy animals which were grazing bloatogenic white clover/ryegrass pastures. Animals were allocated to a treatment on the basis of proneness to bloat, breed and liveweight. The trial paddocks were divided into two with an electric fence. Halfway through the 6-week trial period the two groups exchanged grazing areas. Each animal was scored for bloat daily and weighed at appropriate intervals. In addition, the average block consumption by each animal was measured at weekly intervals. Control blocks were placed in the open, out of reach of all animals, at each trial site to determine their weathering ability. The results show that the blocks significantly reduced the frequency and severity of bloat in four and three trials respectively. The treated group also gained significantly more weight in three trials. Four control animals died of bloat, whereas there were no deaths in the treated groups. Block consumption was adequate and the control blocks weathered well. These blocks are a significant improvement on available methods of bloat control in beef herds, where frequent handling is not practical.

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