What is a bolus?

A bolus is defined as a large pill that is often administered to livestock, sometimes requiring force feeding. This method of delivering medication or nutritional supplements is particularly important for ensuring that livestock receive necessary treatments or nutrients when they may not ingest them voluntarily.

In veterinary practice, boluses can be used to treat various health issues, and the size of the bolus is designed to make it easier to swallow, often requiring a specialized applicator for guidance and ensuring that the animal consumes it without distress.

This understanding clarifies the importance of boluses in animal health, especially in cases where precise dosage is critical or when animals are unwilling to eat or drink due to illness. The other choices do not align with this definition, as they relate to different aspects of livestock care or maintenance.