Reticular Groove Contraction in Yearling Cattle Detected by
Breath Test
L. M McLeay, V.R. Carruthers and P.G. Neil
Department of Biological Sciences, The University of Waikato, PB
3105, Hamilton, New Zealand.
Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1998,
58: 29-31
A novel method was used to detect the incidence of reticular
groove contraction in yearling cattle. Following its oral
administration, 13C octanoic acid is absorbed from the intestine,
metabolised by the liver and the 13C label excreted in the CO2 of
breath. Contraction of the reticular groove should result in a quicker
and greater peak appearance of 13C in breath, than when swallowed
material is delivered into the reticulo-rumen. Mean breath 13 C
enrichment after drenching with NaCl was greater (P<0.001) than with
water. Mean increases in enrichment after sucking molasses and label
were greater than drenching with water (P<0.001) and NaCl (P<0.05).
These results are consistent with sodium and sucking stimulating
reticular groove contraction and support the use of this method as a
simple, repeatable, non-radioactive and non-invasive means of detecting
the route taken of orally administered therapeutic agents or nutrients.
The test, for example, would identify those animals at risk by rumen
bypass of anti-bloat agents.
Keywords: NZSAPAB;
reticular groove; breath test; rumen bypass.
Last Updated 12-09-1998
