Dairy ration buffers

Acetamide has been used experimentally as a source of nonprotein nitrogen for sheep and dairy cattie (13). It does not appear to be toxic in amounts of about 2—3% of ration. Buffering the diet with dibasic acids serves to allow higher levels of intake because the ammonia Hberated in the digestive process is then scavenged. 

Buffers in dairy rations are compounds that neutralize excess acid within the animal s digestive system. The increased emphasis on production and efficiency in dairy cows has lead to an increased use of high concentrate or high-energy rations. Since these rations have more easily fermentable starch in them, this results in increased acid production in the rumen and subsequent acidosis. Higher acidity can result in reduced feed intake, lower milk production, and decreased butterfat. It can also endanger the animal s health and cause liver abscesses, fatty liver syndrome, rumenitis, and laminitis. 

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