Effect of barn feeding on “cara inchada“ (periodontal disease) in calves

Abstract

Two groups of calves, consisting each of 6 and 10 animals respectively and affected by periodontal lesions of "cara inchada" (swollen face), were confined on two farms where the disease occurs and which are situated in the Rondonópoiis area of Mato Grosso, Brazil. The animals received a balanced ration brought into the farm during 5 to 6 months. A significant improvement in the condition of the animals was observed, and the periodontal lesions regressed and healed. The condition of the control animals kept on Panicum maximum pastures on the same farms did not improve, the periodontal lesions persisted or became more severe, and several animals died. The results of this experiment confirm conclusions drawn previously that "cara inchada" in cattle is of alimentary origin and is caused by some factor existing in the pasture of certain areas.