Diseases of the Forestomachs Practice Test

In acute ruminal acidosis, rapid fermentation of excess soluble carbohydrates lowers rumen pH and disrupts the normal rhythmic contractions of the rumen. The acidic environment slows or suppresses ruminal smooth muscle activity, so motility becomes decreased. When movement is reduced, the ingesta tends to stagnate in the rumen, producing ruminal stasis. This decreased motility and resulting stasis are characteristic signs in this situation. Rumination often drops due to discomfort, and normal motility would not produce stasis, while increased salivation is not the defining feature of this problem.