Most feedlot managers readily recognize the effects of acute acidosis. When injected with thiamine, these cattle recover quickly and show no signs of brain disorder. During acute acidosis the production of thiamine by rumen bacteria is impaired, resulting in a thiamine deficiency. However, not all brain disorders are due to acidosis. Proper diagnosis and treatment are necessary.
Acute acidosis can have other, less obvious effects, as well.
During acute acidosis ruminal pH drops to levels between four and five, as opposed to the more normal pH of 6.5. The lining of the ruminal wall is damaged, and abomasal and intestinal linings are severely inflamed. As mentioned earlier, animals may die suddenly or die later due to other acidosis-related problems. Foundered cattle are an indication acute acidosis occurred 40 to 60 days previously. Most of the problems associated with acute acidosis can be minimized with proper bunk management.