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Abomasal erosions in feedlot cattle.
R Jensen1, T R Spraker, R D Glock
1College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523.
American Journal of Veterinary Research
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Gastric erosions were found in 25% of slaughtered feedlot cattle, particularly those fed corn rations. The cause of these abomasal erosions in cattle remains unknown.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Gastroenterology
- Animal Science
Background:
- Abomasal erosions are a concern in feedlot cattle.
- Understanding the prevalence and characteristics of these lesions is crucial for animal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and gross pathology of abomasal erosions in feedlot cattle.
- To compare lesion occurrence across different feeding locations and rations.
Main Methods:
- Examination of 1,949 slaughtered feedlot cattle abomasa.
- Necropsy of 45 feedlot cattle that died and 45 pastured cattle.
- Histopathological examination of eroded abomasal tissues.
- Measurement of abomasal pH in normal and eroded organs.
Main Results:
- Erosions were present in 484 of 1,949 (24.9%) slaughtered feedlot cattle.
- Higher prevalence noted in cattle fed corn rations in Colorado (33%) compared to milo or mixed rations in Arizona and Texas.
- Lesions were red-brown, linear or punctate, located on fundic folds, and characterized by epithelial disruption and vascular damage.
- Mean pH of eroded abomasa (3.9) was lower than normal abomasa (4.7).
Conclusions:
- Abomasal erosions are a significant finding in feedlot cattle, especially those on corn-based diets.
- The pathogenesis involves severe mucosal damage and vascular compromise.
- The exact etiology of gastric erosion in cattle requires further investigation.