Which vagal indigestion type is associated with aggressive IV fluid therapy as the primary treatment?

• A. Type 3
• B. Type 1
• C. Type 2
• D. All types

Answer: (A)

Vagal indigestion has three forms based on where the motility failure occurs along the fore-stomach to the hind-stomach. The distal form involves obstruction at the pylorus/abomasal outflow, causing the abomasum to distend and fluids to be sequestered, which quickly leads to dehydration and electrolyte disturbances. In this situation, the animal is typically dehydrated and circulation and acid–base balance are at risk, so restoring fluid status with aggressive intravenous fluids is the most important first step. Once the patient is stabilized, other measures to relieve the obstruction can be pursued.

The other forms center more on rumen distension or reticulo-omasal outflow issues, where relief of the mechanical problem or rumen decompression is the primary focus rather than starting with aggressive IV fluids.