Sulfur-related polioencephalomalacia is frequently associated with a high t
otal sulfur intake by ruminants. The onset of clinical signs coincides with
excessive ruminal sulfide production. Measurement of ruminal gas cap hydro
gen sulfide makes it possible to identify cattle with potentially hazardous
total sulfur intake. Evaluation of all potential sulfur sources is necessa
ry to estimate total dietary sulfur concentration, which can lead to preven
tion strategies.