Short answer
Cattle digest their feed in the rumen, which needs fibre, a steady routine and clean water. Animals go off feed after a sudden change in feed, too much grain at once, spoiled fodder, heat or illness. Change feed slowly, keep dry fodder in every meal and split the concentrate into smaller feeds. A swollen left side, fever or no dung is an emergency for the vet.
Common reasons
- A sudden change of feed.
- A large amount of grain or concentrate at once.
- Mouldy or spoiled fodder.
- Too little dry fodder.
- Not enough water.
- Heat stress.
- Illness or fever.
How to protect the rumen
- Change feed over a week or more, not in a day.
- Keep dry fodder in every meal.
- Give the concentrate in two or three parts.
- Give fresh feed and clear away leftovers.
- Keep clean water in front of the animal all day.
HNC products that help
Dohan Herbal MineralsIncreases digestive power and keeps animals healthy.
Maxfat Pro CalciumNatural liquid calcium that also increases digestive power.When to call the vet
Call the vet at once if the left side of the belly swells tight (bloat), the animal stops chewing cud, passes no dung, has fever, or has eaten a large amount of grain.
Questions farmers ask
Why has my cow stopped eating?
Common reasons are a sudden feed change, too much grain, spoiled fodder, heat or illness. If she also has fever, a swollen belly or passes no dung, call the vet.
What is bloat (afara)?
Gas trapped in the rumen makes the left side of the belly swell tight. It can kill quickly, so call the vet immediately.
Which HNC products help digestion?
Dohan Herbal Minerals and Maxfat Pro Calcium increase digestive power.