The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Goats => Topic started by: laurelrus on October 23, 2015, 03:52:21 pm

Title: How long does bloat take to happen?
Post by: laurelrus on October 23, 2015, 03:52:21 pm

Hi,

One of our pygmies managed to squeeze through a cat flap hole into the chicken run (that we thought was fully goat proof) and eat some growers pellets this morning.

I spoke to the vet immediately and she advised me to keep an eye on him but she thinks he'll be fine.

I filled the feeder this morning with one full scoop of feed and seven chickens ate from it before going out into the paddock. They don't eat it all though so he definitely would have eaten some although it's not possible to know how much.

I'm checking on him once an hour and so far he's fine. He's eating hay and seems happy.

I'd really like to know how long it takes for signs of bloat to show as I am really worried about him.

Thanks very much

Title: Re: How long does bloat take to happen?
Post by: Anke on October 23, 2015, 05:22:44 pm

No idea, never had it from eating layers' pellets. All you can do is keep him on hay/water only, have some bicarb and oil ready. If he does walk on a lead I wold take him out and about, keep him moving and check that he is producing proper pellets and that his rumen is working. Hope he is ok  :fc:

Title: Re: How long does bloat take to happen?
Post by: fiestyredhead331 on October 23, 2015, 06:52:44 pm

I would have thought between 24-48 hours? Just keep and eye on his backend, and swelling on the left side and frothy mouth.
But be sure to have the bicarb/oil ready just incase  :fc:

Title: Re: How long does bloat take to happen?
Post by: clydesdaleclopper on October 23, 2015, 08:37:55 pm

You could give some strong mint tea as that can help.

Title: Re: How long does bloat take to happen?
Post by: Me on October 23, 2015, 09:17:45 pm

If its not broke don't fix it, give it nothing

Title: Re: How long does bloat take to happen?
Post by: Marches Farmer on October 23, 2015, 09:46:52 pm

Quote from: fiestyredhead331 on October 23, 2015, 06:52:44 pm

I would have thought between 24-48 hours? Just keep and eye on his backend, and swelling on the left side and frothy mouth.
But be sure to have the bicarb/oil ready just incase  :fc:

Also listen for heavy duty gurgling from the rumen.  Might be worth checking in the night if you're really worried - the pressure on surrounding organs from a distended rumen can be immense.

Title: Re: How long does bloat take to happen?
Post by: laurelrus on October 23, 2015, 10:07:35 pm

Thanks very much for the advice.
We've just been out to check on him and so far he's fine. I'm ready with bicarb and oil if necessary.

Title: Re: How long does bloat take to happen?
Post by: Anke on October 26, 2015, 02:47:16 pm

Is the wee man ok?

Title: Re: How long does bloat take to happen?
Post by: laurelrus on October 26, 2015, 02:53:21 pm

Anke - There was no sign of bloat or even a mild stomach ache! He obviously didn't eat very much but I am a worrier and I watched him very closely for 48 hours.

The pophole into the chicken run has been modified so the hens can squeeze through but the goats definitely can't.

Also I now know about using bicarb and oil should we ever be in the unfortunate situation to need it.

I much appreciate the advice!

Title: Re: How long does bloat take to happen?
Post by: Anke on October 26, 2015, 04:27:53 pm

 :thumbsup: