Effect of some Preslaughter Treatments on the Salmonella Population in the Bovine Rumen and Faeces

SUMMARY Salmonella spp. were detected commonly in railway wagons, saleyards and abattoir holding pens through which cattle pass from farm to slaughter. The salmonellae population in the rumen and faeces of cattle at slaughter depended on the previous treatment of the animal. The percentage of animals with salmonellae in the rumen was greater the longer the period between leaving the farm and slaughter; feeding once during this period increased the incidence and numbers of salmonellae in the rumen and at least the incidence in the faeces.