Clover is arguably the best feed available in spring, especially in high-producing animals, where its high protein content and digestibility can really add value to pastures containing actively growing grass species like ryegrass. However, like many things in life, having too much of a good thing can cause problems, and the problem with too much clover is bloat.
It’s common for cattle producers in many parts of NSW and northern Victoria to experience bloat during spring. What differs is how bloat is managed or controlled from farm to farm. In many cases, a herd moved onto risky pasture in the morning can experience significant losses by days end.
According to a recent report (Cost of endemic disease update 2022) bloat costs cattle producers in the southern states $50 million in lost production each year. With the EYCI pushing close to 700 and the cost of inputs continuing to rise, losing cattle to bloat this season may have a larger impact on farm profitability than previous years. To stay on top of bloat, it is beneficial to identify what brings it on and how to control it.
Bloat Development
The proliferation of bloat this season will most likely stem from the continuation of above average rainfall and mild temperatures experienced so far this year – ideal growing conditions for clover. With widespread cases reported in the central west and northern NSW, a combination of rising temperatures and warm sunny days will likely see bloat continue to be an issue into early summer.
Pastures where clover accounts for more than 25% of ground cover are considered risky, with the bloat risk elevating to extreme beyond 50%. Lucerne is less of a concern until new, lush growth is generated, which can come on the back of a single rain event.
The Bloat Curve
Clover cover can develop quickly, so continually monitor pastures and perform an accurate risk assessment.
Integrated Management and Control
- Dilution of the diet with palatable straw or hay not only offsets intake of the ‘hot feed’ but also helps breakdown the foam and bubbles.
- Strip or cell grazing management to limit over consumption of the offending pasture. Lush clover is highly digestible and is usually the first feed grazed in a paddock. High stocking rates during cell grazing can reduce the chance of cattle gorging on clover.
- Introduce cattle to risky pasture when full.
- Use of effective bloat licks, drenches or feed additives.
- Diligent monitoring of pasture and cattle for signs of bloat.
Choosing the Right Bloat Management Product
The right bloat management product is an integral part of an integrated management control program, as it can significantly reduce the risk associated with grazing spring pastures.
Effectiveness is key. This means animals having the access, desire and ability to consume effective active ingredients at the right dose level to combat bloat in low-, medium-, and high-pressure pastures.
BoviBloat Plus is a dual-active, multi-action, palatable loose-lick product specifically designed to alleviate bloat symptoms and reduce bloat development in cattle grazing lush green pastures.
In 150g/hd/day of BoviBloat Plus animals receive 2g (a full dose) of Bovatec
With one active ingredient, Bovatec® (ionophore) acting to elevate rumen function and in doing so reduce bloat development, and the other active, Teric PE62, controlling symptoms by rapidly dissolving bubbles, dual-active, multi-action bloat control products like BoviBloat Plus have proven to be very effective in aiding in the control of bloat.
Palatable loose-lick formulation
The trick with bloat control products is to ensure that livestock are going to consume effective amounts of active ingredients at the right time to reduce bloat when challenges occur. BoviBloat Plus’ palatable loose-lick formulation enables cattle to easily access the product at levels that provide an effective dose.
For best results, we recommend using BoviBloat Plus as a part of an integrated bloat management program.
If you would like more information regarding our products, please contact the team at ANP.
