Protein-energy malnutrition in ruminants

Protein-energy malnutrition occurs when feed is provided to ruminant livestock in insufficient quantity, quality, or both. The clinical syndrome that results from protein-energy malnutrition is not difficult to recognize, but it may be difficult to convince owners of the diagnosis. Development of clinical signs, such as recumbency and hypothermia, may occur rapidly owing to the sudden failure of homeostatic mechanisms that maintain the supply of cellular fuels. The ruminant is unique in its response to malnutrition because ruminal microorganisms become malnourished just as their host does. Ruminal maldigestion hastens the onset of clinical signs and makes recovery very difficult and prolonged. Clinical signs of PEM are similar in adult beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, and goats; however, the typical history of affected animals varies for each of these species. Neonatal ruminants may also be severely affected with PEM if they do not receive sufficient colostrum and milk. Definitive diagnosis of primary PEM requires necropsy of an affected animal. Diagnosis of PEM in an individual animal usually indicates a herd or flock problem that requires immediate attention. If the affected individual is already recumbent, then treatment will likely be difficult and unsuccessful. Changes in management of the herd or flock that involve ensuring adequate feed intake, minimizing cold and social stress, and meeting the animal's specific nutritional requirements will prevent PEM and maximize production.