The significance of reflex salivation in relation to froth formation and acute bloat in ruminants

Abstract

(1) Frothing of ruminal ingesta is the main cause of bloat in sheep on green lucerne (2) It was found that the formation of froth is dependent on the consistency of the ruminal ingesta which in turn is influenced by reflex salivary secretion. (3) Reflex salivary secretion is largely stimulated by the presence of coarse material in the forestomachs and the amount of saliva secreted, therefore, depends on the physical condition of the feed. The explanation for the protective action of hay is based on this finding. (4) The condition and type of lucerne fed has a direct bearing on the occurrence of bloat.