The effect of short term intra-ruminal infusions of lactic acid on the voluntary intake of silage and hay fed steers

Abstract

Lactic acid is the predominant organic acid found in well preserved silages, accounting for up to 150 g/kg dry matter. However, lactic acid has been shown to have a depressive effect on the voluntary intake of hay and silage by cattle (Thomas et al, 1980; Montgomery et al, 1963). The objective of the present study was to investigate how the response of cattle to short term intra-ruminal infusions of lactic acid might be mediated, using fistulated steers adapted to diets of chopped hay or silage by measuring the patterns of feed consumption during the day, together with changes In the concentration of metabolites within the rumen.