RADIOGRAPHIC STUDIES OF GASTRIC EMPTYING IN SUCKLING CAMELS

A suspension of barium sulfate in camel milk was used as a contrast medium to assess gastric anatomy and emptying in camels. Two doses were evaluated: 10 ml/Kg and 20 ml/Kg. The lower dose was found to be inadequate for stomach opacification. The higher dose results in sufficient distention and opacification. Contrast medium was administered by placing the solution into the mouth of the camel. The reticular groove reflex was not observed. Water sacs were filled immediately after barium administration and interval emptying and filling of these sacs occurred until the initiation of abomasal emptying. The abomasum did not begin to empty until approximately 5 hours after administration of the contrast medium; abomasal emptying was not complete until approximately 24 hours after contrast medium administration.