The natural digestive action of ruminants like cattle, sheep, and goats, where they bring up a bolus of semi-digested plant matter from the rumen back into the mouth. Re-chewing breaks down tough plant fibers further and mixes them with saliva to buffer stomach acids. A herd resting and actively chewing is a primary indicator of good digestive health and low stress.
Heard on the job
The cows are all lying down and chewing the cud, so the new ration seems to be agreeing with them.
Insider tip
If a ruminant stops chewing its cud, it is often the first sign of illness, acidosis, or severe stress.