A prospective study was conducted on 87 calves, less than 4 weeks of age, w
ith ruminal acidosis to determine the effect of temporary feed withdrawal o
n their probability of recovery. The results indicated that this was an eff
ective method of treatment, but with some provisions. First, the withholdin
g of feed is indicated only if the pH of the ruminal fluid is less than 6.0
following ruminal lavage on two consecutive days. Secondly, the withholdin
g of feed for one or two days (three to five meals) produced a better effec
t than a more prolonged withholding of feed; during this period the affecte
d calves were given a parenteral source of nutrition comprising 2 l of phys
iological saline and 2 l of a glucose solution over 24 hours. Finally, cach
ectic calves or those with a bad prognosis, from clinical pathological exam
inations, due to intercurrent disease should be euthanised.