SPRING SUMMER BONUS MAGAZINE 2026

appetite. As a result, ruminants will often reduce or stop eating entirely when water is limited. Ensure water troughs are always filled, each animal has enough space to drink and that the water is kept clean. 3. Provide a consistent, well-mixed diet Avoid frequent changes in feed type or poorly mixed rations. Sudden spikes in starch or sugar from slug feeding can trigger rapid fermentation by amylolytic bacteria, producing excess acid and increasing the risk of acidosis and digestive upsets. 4. Maintain regular feeding times Consistent feeding schedules help stabilise rumen pH and fermentation patterns by promoting predictable intake behaviour. Irregular feeding times cause fluctuations in fermentation patterns to which the microbial population cannot adapt quickly. 5. Promote good feed quality and hygiene Ensure your cows always have access to fresh feed, and keep feed bunks clean to prevent the buildup of rancid feed and mould growth. Clean, fresh feed is more palatable and encourages cows to eat consistently, supporting better intake and performance. Feeding mould-free, well-preserved forages and concentrates prevents toxin intake that can harm rumen microbes and reduce intake. www.deheus.co.za | 031 785 1575 | infosa@deheus.com 6. Monitor animals regularly Observing cud-chewing behaviour, manure consistency, milk fat (in dairy cows), body condition, and intake patterns provides early indicators of rumen health problems. Ask your local De Heus TA to assist you in Cow Signals to better monitor your herd consistently. Take home message While the rumen itself is biologically complex, looking after it is largely about consistency, balance, and observation. As a farmer, you do not need to manage the rumen at a microbial level. Instead, by focusing on diet consistency, fibre adequacy, careful feeding management and balanced nutrition with the help of your nutritionist, you can create a stable rumen environment that allows microbes to function optimally and supports animal health, productivity, and efficiency. If you would likemore tailored, farm- specific advice, feel free to contact your local De Heus technical advisor; they are there to help you optimise rumen health and overall herd performance - https://www.deheus . co.za/meet-our-team. www.agribonus.co.za Spring/Summer 2026 BONUS 109