How does consuming lush alfalfa typically cause frothy bloat?
Answer
Soluble proteins mix with saliva to create a stable, dense foam that traps gas.
Alfalfa is rich in highly soluble proteins; when these mix with saliva in the rumen, they act as a surfactant, creating a stable foam that seals the esophagus entrance and traps fermentation gases.
Related Questions
What is the primary, well-documented risk associated with introducing fresh alfalfa pasture to cattle?How does consuming lush alfalfa typically cause frothy bloat?Which category of bloat is specifically associated with the consumption of fresh alfalfa?Which form of alfalfa is generally considered the safest regarding acute bloat risk?What is the specific function of the chemical intervention poloxalene in preventing bloat?Why does turning hungry cattle onto fresh alfalfa pasture significantly increase the bloat risk?What crucial buffering action is provided by feeding high-fiber grass hay before turning cattle onto alfalfa pasture?Compared to alfalfa, why is bloat risk generally lower on grass pastures?What is a common management recommendation for introducing cattle to pure alfalfa pasture to build tolerance?In severe cases of trapped gas accumulation due to bloat, what physical manifestation is observed?