Foreign Body Rumen Impaction with Indigestible Materials in Ruminants in Nigeria: A Review

Abstract

Rumen impaction due to foreign indigestible materials has become one of the major gastro- intestinal disorders in ruminant livestock causing severe loss of production and high mortality rates. Foreign bodies affect the health of animals and cause economic loss to the owner. Among many factors, the current trend of widespread use of polythene bags and other non-biodegradable materials with improper waste disposal constitute major predisposing factors to the development of this condition. In this paper, the Nigerian situation with regard to the prevalence, reported fatalities, composition of recovered foreign materials, risk factors and clinical signs of foreign body rumen impaction have been reviewed. With a view to providing information on the clinical management approaches to the condition, the hemato-biochemical, trace element profile and pathology of the rumen in affected animals, as well as approaches to diagnosis and treatment have been discussed. The review also provides information on the waste disposal situation in Nigeria as it affects the development of this condition with highlights on its economic implications and recommendations on preventive strategies to counteract the problem of rumen impaction.

Keywords: Rumen impaction, Nigeria, foreign body, cattle, sheep, goats