Treatment of Urea Toxicity in Cattle

Correct Answer: Both 10% acetic acid and drenching cold water

• Cold water (20–40 litres): Inhibits rumen urease activity; dilutes NH₃ concentration.
• 10% acetic acid (4–5 litres): Neutralises NH₃ (NH₃ + CH₃COOH → CH₃COONH₄); lowers rumen pH further inhibiting urease.

Why NOT 5% Acetic Acid?

Insufficient concentration to neutralise the large NH₃ load during toxicity. 10% acetic acid is required.