Phytobezoar-induced recurrent bloat and intestinal occlusion in a madras red ewe: A case report

Abstract

A two-year-old Madras Red ewe was presented with sudden abdominal distension, anorexia, and reduced appetite. Physical examination revealed tachycardia and tympanic resonance on rumen percussion. Despite initial bloat treatment, the condition persisted with complete cessation of defecation. The animal succumbed within 24 hours despite therapeutic interventions. Postmortem examination revealed multiple phytobezoars (~9 cm diameter) occluding the omasal and intestinal lumens. Fibre composition analysis of the recovered phytobezoars revealed high lignocellulosic content: Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF) 52.82%, Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF) 38.34%, Acid Detergent Lignin (ADL) 18.18%, and Acid Insoluble Ash (AIA) 6.82%. Further breakdown showed hemicellulose 14.48%, cellulose 20.16%, lignin 11.36%, and silica-bound lignin 6.82%. The high lignin and cellulose content of the phytobezoars explains their indigestibility and persistence. Preventive dietary management focusing on restricting indigestible fiber intake and surgical intervention through rumenotomy represent crucial approaches for managing such cases in small ruminant herds.