How long until bloat shows up?

KnowOneSpecial · #1 07/03/12, 08:01 AM

For some reason, my cow got out this AM and went over to the neighbors. (Yes, the same neighbors who threw a hissy fit and ran to the Mayor the first time my dog went into their yard! This should be good!)

We're totally confused as to how he and the goats got out of a gate that hasn't been used since Sunday and that I know I closed and why he moseyed past chicken scratch and crumbles and went across the street, but that's another matter.

Anyways....He came back when we all went out at 6:15 this morning. We know he was out long enough to poo on my son's bike. I don't know what all he could have gotten into. He was lured back into the barn with 2 ears of corn. I've since seen him pee, drink some water and nibble on some grass.

I had a cow get into feed, bloat and die a year ago last January, so I'm a bit gun shy when it comes to bloat. How long until we're in trouble? Should I call the vet now? Anything I can do for him while I wait?

And yes, this is the same cow that should be going to freezer camp in 2 months.

PaulNKS · #2 07/03/12, 08:16 AM

I may be missing something in your opening post. Why do you think he will bloat? Do you know that he got into something? He would have to get into something major, like a lot of corn or some type of feed he isn't used to eating.

Copperhead · #3 07/03/12, 09:00 AM

Just keep him on his feet and moving, especially if he seems groggy, lazy and swollen on his side. If he'll eat, give him hay only. It's a lot harder when they've been down for 2 or 3 days . . .

Damhik
(Don't ask me how I know)

KnowOneSpecial · #4 07/03/12, 01:30 PM

I don't know for sure he'd get bloat. I just want to be aware of what's going on before it becomes an emergency. He's 100% grass fed and did have some corn. We don't know what else he was happily munching on while he was out and about.

He's up and moving around. Still drinking water and being his normal self.

Thanks!

whodunit · #5 07/03/12, 02:05 PM

You could feed some Tide. That what our vet had us feed to prevent bloat.

bajiay · #6 07/03/12, 02:12 PM

Tide detergent? Really?
I'm just butting in and being nosey, but why Tide?

I am glad that your neighbor did not do anything to your cow.

tinknal · #7 07/03/12, 07:12 PM

Bloat is quick. If it hasn't happened by now it isnt going to.