The Stimulatory Effect of Sodium Butyrate and Sodium Propionate on the Development of Rumen Mucosa in the Young Calf

Twelve young dairy calves equipped with rumen cannulae were fed milk and housed in tie stalls with elevated floors to prevent bedding consumption. Sodium acetate, sodium propionate, sodium butyrate, sodium chloride, and glucose were administered over an 11-wk. period, to study their effect on rumen mucosal development. Two calves served as controls. Administration of solutions of sodium butyrate or sodium propionate caused marked development of the rumen mucosa, whereas the other materials caused relatively little growth. It is hypothesized that the growth of rumen papillae is probably a result of the metabolism of certain compounds by the rumen wall and/or their effect on blood flow in the rumen.