Veterinary Handbook Contents 7.4 Management Of Stock Before, During And After The WashAll cattle must be standing up before starting the deck wash, and care must be taken (particularly with flighty animals) to ensure that large pens of cattle don’t crowd each other causing undue stress or injury. If the wash alters the usual feeding regimen, it is recommended that cattle are fed a chaff feed before re-introducing pellets, this will reduce the risk of bloat or acidosis. After the wash is the optimal time to carefully examine cattle for leg injuries, swelling or lameness as visibility will be optimal. Cattle are at increased risk of obtaining ocular foreign bodies during washing down and must be monitored afterwards for clinical signs such as eye discharge or ocular discomfort.BackNext