BLOAT

also called Hoven, or Tympanites, disorder of ruminant animals involving distention of the rumen, the first of the four divisions of the stomach, with gas of fermentation. Bloated cattle are restless and noticeably uncomfortable and have distended left flanks. Bloat may occur after cattle have eaten young clover, turnips, potatoes, cabbage, or any food that is cold and wet. Though deaths have occurred, economic losses from bloat usually derive from reduction in milk production and weight-gain rate.