Biochemical changes in the rumen fluid of cattle in experimental acidosis reproduced with the use of saccharose

Twelve experiments were performed on 6 cannulated cows with rumen acidosis induced by intraruminal administration of saccharose in doses of 8 m 12 g/kg body weight. The pH-value, total acidity, levels of lactic and pyruvic acids, and Na, K, Cl, in organic P, Ca and Mg contents were determined in 32 samples of the rumen fluid collected before and within 4 days after the administration of saccharose. The most marked alterations in the rumen fluid were observed between 8 and 26 hours after treatment. A decrease in the rumen pH-value to 4.3 was associated with increases of lactic and pyruvic acid levels. Increases in Ca, P, Mg, and Cl and decreases in Na and K contents were noted.