A comprehensive review on sub-acute ruminal acidosis in dairy cow

Abstract

Ruminal microbiota is pivotal to dairy cattle's digestive health, influencing ruminal pH and, in turn, the development of metabolic disorders. Subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA) arises from an imbalance between lactic acid-producing and lactic acid-consuming bacteria. Factors such as alterations in volatile fatty acid (VFA) absorption rates, gene expression, intracellular pH regulation by ruminal cells, and in situ carbohydrate digestibility play pivotal roles in elevating the risk of SARA in dairy cows. In SARA cases, ruminal pH levels drop to 5.5-5.0, promoting conditions like laminitis, impacting body condition scores, and increasing the incidence of liver abscesses. The threat of SARA can be mitigated through improved feeding strategies and rigorous feed management practices. Effective feeding strategies must strike a delicate balance between ruminal buffering and the production of volatile fatty acids through carbohydrate fermentation. Implementing total mixed ration (TMR) feeding has shown promise in reducing SARA occurrences. This comprehensive review delves into the prevalence, underlying causes, diagnostic methods, preventive measures, and the management and treatment options available for Subacute Ruminal Acidosis in dairy cattle.