Evaluation of ruminal sulfide concentrations and seasonal outbreaks of polioencephalomalacia in beef cattle in a feedlot

Abstract

Excessive ruminal sulfide production is an important factor in the pathogenesis of PEM, without concurrent thiamine deficiency. Most cases of PEM developed between 15 and 30 days after introduction to a high-sulfur diet. When water is an important source of dietary sulfur, risk of PEM may increase during hot weather.