By Roelof Bezuidenhout
Several commercial and home-made rumen stimulants are used to revive the rumen flora in cud-chewing animals, especially when the veld is dry and digestive systems slow down. One simply and popular home remedy used by sheep farmers during times of drought can help when flocks begin to lose body condition and dung pellets become dry and hard.
The recipe
Mix 4 sachets ordinary baker’s yeast, 2 kg brown sugar and 1 litre brown vinegar in a 5-litre container, then top it up with water. Dose adult sheep with about 20 ml per ewe, and weaned lambs with 15 ml.
Not all farmers are convinced of the effectiveness of this remedy, but many swear by it. They claim that within a few days, dung pellets become softer and greener, and the flock generally seems to gain vitality. They describe it as a tonic – and at only 15 cents per sheep, they say it’s worth a try.
The effects are short-lived, however, and a repeat dose may be needed after a week or two. But that’s two weeks closer to the rain.
For calves, adjust the dosage based on body weight. Goats, being browsers, typically get enough greenery to maintain healthy digestion and usually don’t need supplementation.
This recipe has not been scientifically tested for its effect on dormant rumen flora in animals grazing dry veld, but yeast, which is a common ingredient in animal feed, is known to boost microbial activity.
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 | Roelof Bezuidenhout is a fourth-generation wool, mohair, mutton and game farmer and freelance journalist. Attended Free State University, majoring in animal husbandry and pasture science. Other interests include agricultural extension and rural development. |
