Feeding sheep silage anti-poisoning in winter

The affected sheep shows a lack of appetite, appears lethargic, has red conjunctiva, slow reactions, and does not ruminate. The rumen is distended and feels soft upon palpation. Feces are soft and sour, indicating dehydration, with sunken eyes and reduced or no urine output. Body temperature remains relatively stable, ranging between 37°C to 39.5°C. The sheep may walk with a stiff gait, lie on the ground, and exhibit head and neck flexion or arching. In severe cases, the animal may become dizzy, fall into a coma, and die within 3 to 5 days if not treated promptly.

It's essential to choose high-quality silage, but avoid feeding it exclusively. Silage should not make up more than 60% of the daily diet to prevent overconsumption and related digestive issues.

For mild cases, a gastric tube can be used to flush the rumen with warm water (37°C–40°C) until the contents lose their acidic smell. Then, 200–500 ml of healthy sheep rumen fluid can be administered through the same tube. For severe cases, intravenous administration of 50–1500 ml of 5% sodium bicarbonate solution, 500–1000 ml of glucose solution, and 60 ml of vitamin C is recommended. If heart failure occurs, 2–20 ml of 2% nikethamide, 10–20 ml of 10% sodium, or 3–5 ml of 0.1% adrenaline can be injected subcutaneously. Additionally, using a stomach tube to administer 10 grams of sodium bicarbonate mixed with 2000–4000 ml of warm water helps neutralize lactic acid in the rumen. A herbal mixture containing 30 grams of trichosanthin, puerarin, honeysuckle, 60 grams of licorice, and 500 grams of mung beans, all ground into fine powder, can be prepared with boiling water, cooled slightly, and given via a stomach tube for additional support.