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SECTION IX
DISEASES THAT OCCUR DUE TO FAULTY FEEDING
The digestive system of cattle is highly complex
with the stomach having four chambers. The
digestive process is based on the action of
various types of microbes which break down
the feed and provide nutrients to the animal.
Any sudden change in feeding pattern or an
improper feeding regimen is bound to disturb
the balance of the various types of microbes,
leading to an over population of certain
unfavourable microbes that may cause various
problems like laminitis or even death in severe
cases (acute acidosis). Such conditions may
also arise from interference in the process
of natural gas expulsion produced as a bye-
product of microbial digestion. It is important
to understand the common conditions so that
timely advice or treatment can be sought from
a veterinarian. The following conditions are
described under this section:
A. Bloat
B. Rumen acidosis
C. Laminitis