Nutrition of Compromised Ruminants

Nutritional management plays a pivotal role in the recovery and performance of compromised ruminants affected by metabolic disorders, infectious diseases, gastrointestinal dysfunction, stress, or poor body condition. Disease and physiological stress alter nutrient requirements, feed intake, rumen function, immune competence, and energy metabolism, making conventional feeding practices inadequate. Effective nutritional support requires careful consideration of energy and protein balance, fibre quality, mineral and vitamin supplementation, hydration, rumen microbial health, and stage of production. Tailored feeding strategies can improve immune function, enhance recovery, minimize metabolic complications, and restore productivity while addressing the specific nutritional challenges associated with compromised health status.