Outbreak of acute rumen impaction in a buffalo herd and its clinical management

Abstract

Rumen impaction in buffaloes is commonly associated with ingestion of fibrous feed material, coarse grain, polythene and jute bags and ropes. The present paper describes the clinical findings haematological alteration in an outbreak of acute rumen impaction in Murrah buffaloes of Punjab associated with feeding of mature bajra (Pennisetum typhoideum). The prominent clinical signs were sudden anorexia and loss of defecation, abdominal pain, dehydration, abdominal distension and tympany. Hematological alterations were neutrophelia and reversal of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio. All the animals recovered uneventfully within a period of three days after aggressive fluid therapy, oral purgative and lubricant and electrolyte therapy, and other supportive care.