Diagnosis of subacute rumen acidosis in cows in the postpartum period when using digital technologies

Abstract

The purpose of the research was to determine the corelation between pH and temperature of the contents of the rumen and abomasum in the fi rst 10 days after calving and to evaluate these factors as prognostic signs for the diagnosis of subacute acidosis in cows. The temperature and pH of the rumen contents have been measured by using special boluses made for monitoring the physiological state of cattle. The temperature and pH of the abomasum contents have been measured by using abdominal cannulation. Before the study the selected cows were clinically examined in accordance with the general plan and were completely healthy. Clinical signs of acidosis (diarrhea, loss of appetite, and weak rumination) have been not detected. The average concentration of somatic cells count in the milk of the studied cows was 250±32 thousand/ml and the urea content in the milk was at the level of 25±4 mg/%. Boluses were placed orally in the rumen of the cows under study. In 7 cows, readings have been taken 2 times per day for 10 days (at 9 am and 9 pm). A total of 140 measurements have been made. A negative correlation has been observed between pH of the rumen contents and its temperature. Consequently, an increase in the acidity (decrease in pH) of the rumen content increases its temperature. A positive statistically signifi cant correlation has been established between the temperature of the rumen content and rectal temperature. By measuring the temperature of the contents of the rumen, it is possible to prevent the appearance of subacute rumen acidosis in cows.