Bloat

Symptoms and diagnosis of bloat in sheep 🩺

Sheep suffering from tympany will show signs of a distended abdomen, particularly on the left side. You might notice them staggering, becoming recumbent, or even facing sudden death if the condition is severe. The rumen becomes grossly distended, and there may be congestion in the mucosal areas of the esophagus.

Bloat in lambs

Most common in orphan lambs that are two to four weeks old. When a lamb is reared on a ewe, it drinks little and often, and the milk is always at the correct temperature and not too hot. Orphan lambs tend to have a greater intake per feed, and with competition of other lambs, they tend to guzzle fast. Tympany is caused by harmful bacteria in the stomach that feed on the lactose, which often gains entry with unhygienic conditions and hot milk. These bacteria multiply in the stomach and the sugars in the milk ferment, causing excess gas production. This gas cannot escape from the stomach, bloating the lamb. Lambs with tympany may show signs of a swollen abdomen, particularly on the left side. They might appear restless, have difficulty breathing, or show signs of distress. In severe cases, they may become recumbent or even die suddenly

How to treat bloat in sheep & lambs 💊

Treatment for tympany involves relieving the pressure in the rumen. This can be done through a procedure called rumenotomy or by administering froth-reducing agents. It's crucial to act quickly to prevent severe complications.

How to prevent bloat in sheep & lambs 🛡️

Preventing tympany involves managing the diet of your sheep carefully. Avoid sudden changes in diet and limit access to pastures that are known to cause bloat, such as those rich in legumes. You can also use prophylactic froth-reducing agents in their feed.

By keeping a close eye on your flock's diet and being aware of the symptoms, you can help prevent tympany and ensure your sheep stay happy and healthy. If you ever suspect bloat, don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian for assistance.