Effect of Feeding Sodium and Potassium Bicarbonate on Milk Fat, Rumen pH, and Volatile Fatty Acid Production

Abstract

Sodium or potassium bicarbonates (1 lb/day) were added to the rations of cows fed grain to appetite and 2 lb. of long or pelleted hay. These bicarbonates prevented the decline in milk fat percentage frequently associated with such rations. The pH of the rumen contents was increased, but the molar proportion of the acids was not appreciably altered. © 1961, American Dairy Science Association. All rights reserved.