Regarding chronic vagal indigestion, which statement is most accurate about survival and productivity?

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

Answer: (D)

Chronic vagal indigestion causes long-lasting impairment of rumen motility and emptying, leading to persistent ruminal distension and poor nutritional status. Because the underlying motility problem is not readily reversible, many animals fail to maintain body condition or production despite treatment. While some cases might show short-lived or partial improvement with dietary changes or supportive care, the long-term outlook is typically guarded to poor. This means production remains reduced (lower weight gain or milk yield) and costs of care are high, so euthanasia or culling is commonly chosen when the animal cannot sustain productive output.