D630
pH Testing

Introduction: Testing rumen pH involves obtaining a sample of rumen fluid and performing a simple test to determine how much acid or how much base is in the sample. The lower the pH of a substance, the more acidic the sample. Conversely, the higher the pH, the more basic the sample.

Reasons to Perform the Test: Performing this test is important in situations such as grain overload (acidosis) and indigestion. With changes in pH, the normal bacteria and protozoa in the rumen change and even die off. The overgrowth and death of certain bugs can cause an animal to go off feed and show signs of indigestion. Determining the rumen pH is essential in diagnosing grain overload, since the normal rumen pH should be greater than 5.5 and preferably around 6 to 6.5. Any rumen sample with a pH level of less than 5.5 indicates an acidosis problem and appropriate treatment should begin.

Ways to Obtain a Sample for pH Testing:
  1. The most accurate way of testing pH is to perform a rumenocentesis or rumen tap. Taking a rumen sample by rumenocentesis requires the help and training of a veterinarian.
  2. Another way of obtaining a rumen sample involves passing an oral tube into the rumen and withdrawing a sample. This method, however, may not be as accurate as taking a direct sample from the rumen by rumenocentesis. Once obtained, the sample can be tested using a pH meter or strip.
  3. A final, and probably the least accurate way of measuring pH, is by sampling the fresh feces of the animal. This is done by using a pH meter or strip.

Flock/Herd-wide Signs of Disease that may Indicate an Underlying Acidosis Problem:
  1. Lameness problems
  2. Bloat
  3. Diarrhea
pH strip test.