Punjab: As temp soars, experts caution dairy farmers on rise in constipation among cattle
According to the experts, it is a common and serious health issue among dairy cattle, especially during hot summer months
With temperatures increasing across the district, experts have cautioned dairy farmers on a likely increase in cases of impaction, or constipation, among cattle.
According to the experts, it is a common and serious health issue among dairy cattle, especially during hot summer months. Veterinary hospitals report a sharp increase in cases during the period, they said.
“Farmers should remain vigilant as timely recognition and management can save animals from severe complications. It can also prevent monetary losses. Monitoring body temperature, feed intake and milk yield are particularly important as these indicators help in detecting the condition at an early stage,” said Kanwarpal Singh Dhillon from Punjab Agricultural University’s (PAU) Krishi Vigyan Kendra.
Bikramjit Singh from the KVK said constipation occurs more frequently during summer when there is scarcity of green fodder. “Excessive feeding of dry fodder is among major causes of the disease. Calcium deficiency in diet or during advanced stage of pregnancy also predisposes animals to constipation,” added he.
They said farmers should look for the clinical signs in animals. The signs include animal stopping passing dung or passing small and dry pellets, or feces mixed with mucus, which is sometimes black in colour.
They said the cattle would experience abdominal bloating or tympany, pain and distension of left abdomen.
According to the experts, animals suffering from the disease will have dull appearance, refuse feed and shows signs of dehydration. A sudden drop in milk yield is also associated with the disease.
Experts said immediate treatment should be started under veterinary supervision. Oral administration of three to four litres of mustard or linseed oil is recommended as an emergency measure.
“If no dung is passed for 48 hours, correcting dehydration is critical. Administer six to 10 litres of saline intravenously. Blood tests at the nearest veterinary hospital or university clinic are essential to identify and correct associated metabolic disorders,” said the experts.
What to do
Ensure year-round availability of green fodder. During scarcity, use silage or preserved fodder as an alternative
Avoid dependence on wheat straw
Provide clean and good-quality roughage
Supplement diet with mineral mixture to prevent nutritional deficiencies
Prevent hardware disease by feeding special magnet to every animal aged above a year. The magnet remains in reticulum (part of stomach) for up to two years and traps sharp metallic objects, preventing internal injuries and associated complications
