New developments in understanding ruminal acidosis in dairy cows

Abstract

Maximizing milk production without incurring ruminal acidosis is a challenge for most dairy producers. Feeding a highly fermentable diet provides energy precursors needed for high milk production, but the risk of subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) increases. Ruminal acidosis is characterized by periodic episodes of suboptimal rumen pH, which depresses fiber digestion and possibly milk production. Preventing SARA requires careful management of rumen fermentation. Key strategies that help reduce the risk of acidosis are: adaptation of the rumen environment to changes in diet composition, formulation of diets with slow rate of ruminal carbohydrate digestion, and increased intake of physically effective fiber. New research developments are improving our understanding of the factors that put cows at risk of developing SARA and how this risk can be managed.