Bloat is a metabolic disease that occurs from gorging on anything unsuitable such as wet grass pastures or after raiding food bins. Another name is ruminal tympany. It is less common in goats than cattle and sheep. If not treated, it could lead to life threatening condition. The two types include frothy bloat and free gas bloat. All goats with a mature functional rumen are at risk. Conditions that may lead to frothy bloat include: sudden ingestion of lush legumes such as clover or alfalfa, either in green feeds or as new hay; recent turnout to legume pastures, and wet grass pastures. Sudden access to grain can also lead to frothy bloat. Free gas bloat occurs when there is blockage in the esophagus.

Symptoms: Symptoms include restlessness, uncomfortable loss of appetite, and increased salivation. The stomach becomes progressively distended on the left side. The goat may bite and or kick at the abdominal region, followed by increased discomfort and death.

Treatment: Treatment includes passing a stomach tube in case of free gas bloat. Drenching with mineral oil (100-200 cc) may help. DO NOT drench mineral oil without a stomach tube, or it will end up in the lungs. Walking the goat and massaging the flank may be of value.

Prevention: Control measures include introducing goats to lush pasture gradually and for short periods. Feed hay prior to pasture or concentrates. Avoid feeding finely ground concentrates.

Reference: Mary C. Smith & David M. Sherman : Goat Medicine

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