The route of liquids administered to calves by esophageal feeder.

An esophageal feeder and a rubber nasoesophageal tube were used to administer fluids to calves. Radio-opaque fluids were given and their destination determined by fluoroscopy and radiography. Fluids containing glucose and xylose were also given and plasma glucose and xylose concentrations measured. In at least 93% of calves, the radio-opaque fluids entered the reticulum, indicating that the reticular groove did not close. Oral administration of sodium bicarbonate, copper sulfate and guanidine HCl did not influence groove closure in calves that received fluids through an esophageal feeder. As administration of the fluids continued, overflow to the abomasum occurred after about 400 mL had been given. When 2.0 L of glucose and electrolyte solution was given by esophageal feeder, plasma glucose levels rose significantly (p less than 0.01), showing that absorption had occurred. Plasma xylose levels rose in seven out of eight calves 30 minutes after a second 2.0 L dose (containing xylose) had been administered. Thus, even though esophageal feeders do not cause reticular groove closure, they can be used to administer fluids for enteric absorption, provided large quantities are given.