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17:15
Catheterization of Intestinal Loops in Ruminants
Published on: June 11, 2009
Sustained-release boluses to supply trace elements and vitamins to calves
R G Hemingway1, J J Parkins, N S Ritchie
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Glasgow University Veterinary School, Bearsden, Glasgow G61 1QH, Scotland, UK.
Veterinary Journal (London, England : 1997)
|March 1, 1997
Summary
Rumen boluses effectively delivered essential trace minerals and vitamins to calves, significantly improving copper and selenium levels in both housed and pastured animals. This supplementation addresses deficiencies in basic diets, promoting better animal health.
Area of Science:
- Animal Nutrition
- Ruminant Physiology
- Trace Mineral Metabolism
Background:
- Inadequate dietary intake of essential trace minerals like copper and selenium is common in young ruminants.
- Deficiencies can impair growth, immunity, and overall health in calves.
- Rumen bolus technology offers a sustained-release method for nutrient supplementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate cylindrical rumen boluses for delivering trace minerals and vitamins to calves.
- To assess the efficacy of these boluses in improving nutrient status in young cattle under different feeding systems.
- To determine if bolus supplementation can correct copper and selenium deficiencies in calf diets.
Main Methods:
- Construction of cylindrical rumen boluses (55 mm x 18 mm) with a density of 2.9 g cm(-3).
- Measurement of daily nutrient release rates (Cu, Se, Co, I, Mn, Zn, Vitamins A, D3, E) from boluses in rumen-cannulated cows.
- Experimental trials with housed dairy calves and suckled beef-cross calves receiving two rumen boluses.
- Analysis of plasma copper and blood glutathione peroxidase levels as indicators of nutrient status.
Main Results:
- Rumen boluses released consistent daily amounts of key trace minerals and vitamins.
- Supplementation with two rumen boluses significantly increased plasma copper levels in both dairy and beef calves.
- Blood glutathione peroxidase activity was significantly elevated, indicating improved selenium status in supplemented calves.
- The positive responses were observed in calves whose basic diets were deficient in copper and selenium.
Conclusions:
- Rumen boluses are an effective delivery system for essential trace minerals and vitamins in calves.
- Bolus supplementation can successfully correct copper and selenium deficiencies in young ruminants.
- This technology provides a practical approach to improving the nutritional status and health of calves, particularly those on diets with inadequate mineral allowances.
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