How would you characterize the prognosis of chronic vagal indigestion?

• A. Generally guarded to poor; many cases are euthanized or culled due to persistent distension and poor production.
• B. Excellent prognosis with early intervention and dietary management.
• C. Prognosis varies; most cases recover fully with conservative therapy.
• D. There is no impact on long-term productivity; production remains normal.

Answer: (A)

Chronic vagal indigestion is a progressive functional disorder of rumen motility caused by impaired vagal control. Because the underlying motility problem is typically irreversible and leads to persistent abdominal distension and poor feed efficiency, the prognosis tends to be guarded to poor. Even with dietary adjustments and medical management, many animals do not regain productive capacity, so prolonged distension and debility often lead to euthanasia or culling. Some early or less severe cases may show temporary improvement, but in the chronic form the long-term outlook is generally unfavorable. Production is usually affected, not kept normal, and recovery to full function is uncommon.