Vagal indigestion can cause which effect on milk production?

• A. Decreased milk production
• B. Increased milk production
• C. No change
• D. Variable milk production

Answer: (A)

Vagal indigestion disrupts normal rumen motility and eructation, causing functional obstruction and ruminal distension. This slows or halts proper passage and mixing of ingested feed, reducing fermentation efficiency and nutrient absorption. With less energy and nutrients available, the cow’s energy balance worsens and milk synthesis in the mammary gland declines. Therefore, decreased milk production is the typical outcome. Increased production or no change are not expected effects of this condition, though illness can sometimes cause variability.