Primarily used as a dairy cow feed supplement, the buffering capability of natural feed grade sodium bicarbonate helps stabilize rumen pH by reducing acidic conditions. Improve forage intake and fibre digestion.
Careful drenching with about 100 to 150 grams of sodium bicarbonate in water might accomplish the same end. Mildly bloated feedlot cattle (“swellers” or “tight”) might respond to walking, which can shake the foam down and coalesce the foam into a large bubble that can be expelled. A recommendation of 2-4 tablespoons of baking soda in 2 liters of warm water works quite well. In moderate to severe cases of scours, often the calf doesn't feel well enough to eat.
Cattle experiencing acute acidosis should be treated immediately. One possible treatment suggested by Oklahoma State is as follows: Combine 500 grams sodium bicarbonate (baking soda); 850 cc 12% formaldehyde; 20 grams magnesium oxide; 40 grams charcoal.
Sodium bicarbonate may have a positive effect on increasing milk production and milk intake. It is recommended to consume 250-200 grams of Sodium bicarbonate per day in high-yield lactating cows to prevent the harmful effects of acidosis. This amount is 150-100 grams per day per head in fattening calves.