Effects of a long-acting, trace mineral, reticulorumen bolus on range cow productivity and trace mineral profiles

The effect of maternal organic manganese supplementation on performance, immunological status, blood biochemical and antioxidant status of Afshari ewes and their newborn lambs in transition period

It has been documented that adequate maternal manganese (Mn) status is vital for performance and health of ewes and their newborn lambs. However, required level and form of dietary Mn in ruminants are not well defined. The current study was conducted to evaluate the effect of maternal organic Mn supplementation on performance, immunological status, blood biochemical and antioxidant status of Afshari ewes and their newborn lambs in transition period. For this purpose, various organic Mn concentrations were utilized as a supplementary ingredient in formulating the diets of ewes. The ewes were randomly allocated into three groups, fed with 0, and 80 mg/kg organic Mn supplemented diet. At the end of the experiment, the parameters including the performance of newborn lambs, as well as biochemical factors, immune status and antioxidant status in ewes and their newborn lambs were evaluated. The results showed a significant increase in the plasma concentrations of Mn, glucose, insulin, thyroid hormones (T3 , T4 ) and enzymatic antioxidants (SOD, GPX , CAT) in ewes and their newborn lambs that were treated with maternal organic Mn. Moreover, inorganic Mn treatments, the concentration of IgG in newborn lamb's plasma, and colostrum of ewes increased. According to this research, organic Mn acts as a valuable and safe supplementary material that could be exploited for enhancing health of ewes and their newborn lambs.

Supplementing vitamins and minerals to beef heifers during gestation: impacts on mineral status in the dam and offspring, and growth and physiological responses of female offspring from birth to puberty

We evaluated the effects of feeding a vitamin and mineral supplement to nulliparous beef heifers throughout gestation on the mineral status of the dam, calf, placenta, and colostrum; offspring growth performance; and physiological responses of offspring raised as replacement heifers. Angus-based heifers (n = 31, initial body weight [BW] = 412.5 ± 53.68 kg) were adapted to an individual feeding system for 14 d, estrus synchronized and bred with female-sexed semen. Heifers were ranked by BW and randomly assigned to receive either a basal diet (CON; n = 14) or the basal diet plus 113 g heifer-1 d-1 of the vitamin and mineral supplement (VTM; n = 17). Targeted BW gains for both treatments was 0.45 kg heifer-1 d-1. Liver biopsies were obtained from dams at breeding, days 84 and 180 of gestation. At calving, liver biopsies were taken from dams and calves; colostrum, placenta, and blood samples were collected; and calf body measurements were recorded. After calving, all cow-calf pairs received a common diet through weaning, and F1 heifer calves were managed similarly after weaning. Offspring growth performance, feeding behavior, blood metabolites, and hormones were evaluated from birth through 15 mo of age. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure in SAS with repeated measures where appropriate. Hepatic concentrations of Se decreased in VTM dams (P ≤ 0.05) from day 84 to calving, while concentrations of Cu decreased in VTM and CON (P ≤ 0.05) from day 84 to calving. Calf liver concentrations of Se, Cu, Zn, and Co at birth were greater for VTM than CON (P ≤ 0.05), but calf birth BW and body measurements were not different (P = 0.45). Placental Se, colostrum quantity, total Se, Cu, Zn, and Mn in colostrum were greater (P ≤ 0.04) in VTM dams than CON. Finally, offspring from VTM dams were heavier than CON (P < 0.0001) from weaning through 15 mo of age. These results were coupled with greater (P ≤ 0.04) blood glucose at birth, decreased (P ≤ 0.05) blood urea nitrogen at pasture turn out and weaning, and altered feeding behaviors in VTM offspring compared with CON. Maternal gestational vitamin and mineral supplementation enhanced mineral status in dams and F1 progeny, augmented postnatal offspring growth and blood metabolites. Consequently, in utero vitamin and mineral supplementation may exert programming outcomes on the performance and productivity of females raised as herd replacements and should be considered when developing diets for gestating cows and heifers.

Vitamin and mineral supplementation to beef heifers during gestation: impacts on morphometric measurements of the neonatal calf, vitamin and trace mineral status, blood metabolite and endocrine profiles, and calf organ characteristics at 30 h after birth

To examine the effects of feeding a vitamin and mineral supplement to beef heifers throughout gestation on mineral status and hormone/endocrine profiles in the dam and calf, and morphometric characteristics and organ mass of the calf at 30 h after birth, Angus-based heifers (n = 72, 14 to 15 mo of age, initial body weight [BW] = 380.4 ± 50.56 kg) were estrus synchronized and artificially inseminated (AI) with female-sexed semen. Heifers were blocked by BW and randomly assigned to receive either a basal diet (CON; n = 36) or a basal diet plus a vitamin and mineral supplement (VTM; n = 36) via an individual feeding system beginning at breeding, with both diets targeting BW gains of 0.45 kg heifer-1·d-1. Heifers not pregnant after the first AI (CON, n = 19; VTM, n = 18) were rebred via AI 60 d after treatment initiation, and heifers gestating female fetuses (CON, n = 7; VTM, n = 7) received treatments throughout gestation and were experimental units for this study. Calves were separated from their dams and fed colostrum replacer within 2 h of birth and euthanized 30 h after the first feeding. Calf morphometrics were recorded, and tissues were weighed and sampled. Serum from the dam at calving and serum, liver, and muscle from the calf at 30 h were analyzed for concentrations of minerals. Serum from the dam and calf were analyzed for concentrations of leptin, vitamins A, D, and E, cortisol, growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factor 1. All response variables were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS. Calf body morphometrics and BW of the dam at calving (P ≥ 0.32), calf organ weights (P ≥ 0.21), and calf ovarian follicle counts (P ≥ 0.13) were not affected by maternal treatment. Concentrations of Se and Co in calf serum and Se in calf liver were increased (P ≤ 0.02) in VTM. Serum concentrations of Co and vitamin A in the dam were greater (P ≤ 0.01) in supplemented compared with nonsupplemented dams, and serum concentrations of vitamin D were greater (P ≤ 0.0003) in supplemented dams and calves compared with the nonsupplemented cohort. Maternal supplementation supported vitamin and mineral status in the neonate, yet had no discernable impact on BW, organ mass, or circulating hormones/metabolites in the calf. Evaluating offspring at later postnatal time points is warranted to determine if prenatal vitamin and mineral supplementation affects performance, health, metabolism, and efficiency of energy utilization in key metabolic tissues in the calf.

Evaluation of Trace Mineral Sources

Several trace mineral sources, including inorganic, numerous organic, and hydroxychloride sources, are available for dietary supplementation or inclusion in a free-choice supplement. Inorganic forms of copper and manganese differ in their bioavailability. Although research results have been variable, organic and hydroxychloride trace minerals are generally considered more bioavailable than inorganic sources. Research indicates that fiber digestibility is lower in ruminants fed sulfate trace minerals compared with hydroxychloride and some organic sources. Compared with free-choice supplements, individual dosing with rumen boluses or injectable forms ensures that each animal receives the same quantity of a trace mineral.

Effects of copper, zinc, and manganese source and inclusion during late gestation on beef cow-calf performance, mineral transfer, and metabolism

To determine effects of Cu, Zn, and Mn source and inclusion during late gestation, multiparous beef cows [n = 48; 649 ± 80 kg body weight (BW); 5.3 ± 0.5 body condition score (BCS)] were individually-fed hay and supplement to meet or exceed all nutrient recommendations except Cu, Zn, and Mn. From 91.2 ± 6.2 d pre-calving to 11.0 ± 3.2 d post-calving, cows received: no additional Cu, Zn, or Mn (control, CON), sulfate-based Cu, Zn, and Mn (inorganic, ITM) or metal methionine hydroxy analogue chelates (MMHAC) of Cu, Zn, and Mn at 133% recommendations, or a combination of inorganic and chelated Cu, Zn, and Mn (reduce and replace, RR) to meet 100% of recommendations. Data were analyzed with treatment and breeding group (and calf sex if P < 0.25 for offspring measures) as fixed effects, animal as experimental unit, and sampling time as a repeated effect for serum, plasma, and milk measures over time. Post-calving cow liver Cu was greater (P ≤ 0.07) in MMHAC compared with all other treatments. Calves born to RR had greater (P ≤ 0.05) liver Cu than ITM and CON, and MMHAC had greater (P = 0.06) liver Cu than CON. Liver Mn was less (P ≤ 0.08) for RR calves than all other treatments. Calf plasma Zn was maintained (P ≥ 0.15) from 0 to 48 h of age in ITM and MMHAC but decreased (P ≤ 0.03) in CON and RR. Gestational cow BW, BCS, and metabolites were not affected (P ≥ 0.13) by treatment, but gestational serum thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) were greater (P = 0.01) for CON than MMHAC. Treatment did not affect (P ≥ 0.13) calf birth size, vigor, placental size and minerals, or transfer of passive immunity. Neonatal calf serum Ca was greater (P ≤ 0.05) for MMHAC than all other treatments; other calf serum chemistry and plasma cortisol were not affected (P ≥ 0.12). Pre-suckling colostrum yield, and lactose concentration and content, were greater (P ≤ 0.06) for MMHAC compared with ITM and RR. Colostral triglyceride and protein concentrations were greater (P ≤ 0.08) for RR than MMHAC and CON. Cow lactational BW and BCS, milk yield and composition, and pre-weaning calf BW and metabolism were not affected (P ≥ 0.13) by treatment. Lactational serum TBARS were greater (P = 0.04) for RR than CON at day 35 and greater (P ≤ 0.09) for MMHAC at day 60 than all other treatments. Source and inclusion of Cu, Zn, and Mn altered maternal and neonatal calf mineral status, but calf size and vigor at birth, passive transfer, and pre-weaning growth were not affected in this study.

Mineral-salt supplementation to ameliorate larkspur poisoning in cattle

Larkspurs (Delphinium spp.) are native forbs that are poisonous to cattle and cost livestock producers millions of dollars in losses each year. Macro and micro minerals are required for normal functioning of essentially all metabolic processes in ruminants. The role that mineral status may play in larkspur poisoning in cattle is not clear. In this study, we seek to determine the effects a mineral-salt supplement, commonly used by cattle producers, to potentially reduce cattle losses to larkspur. The ability of mineral-salt supplementation to alter susceptibility to larkspur toxicosis was evaluated in a pen study. Animals supplemented with mineral-salt were found to be less susceptible to larkspur poisoning than the non-supplemented animals. A separate group of animals were then grazed on larkspur infested rangelands. One group was supplemented with a mineral-salt mix and the other group did not receive any mineral-salt. Supplementing cattle with the mineral-salt mix did not alter larkspur consumption (P > 0.05). However, overall larkspur consumption was low and averaged 3 ± 1.0% and 2 ± 1.1% for cattle supplemented with mineral and non-supplemented, respectively. Serum was collected from animals once a week during the grazing study. Average and maximum serum concentrations of toxic larkspur alkaloids were numerically higher in mineral-salt supplemented cattle compared with the non-supplemented animals. Results from the pen study suggest that a good mineral supplementation program will provide a protective effect for animals grazing in larkspur-infested ranges. The mineral-salt supplemented steers, in the grazing study, were not observed to consume less larkspur than the non-supplemented animals; however, the mineral-salt supplemented animals had higher concentrations of larkspur alkaloids in their serum indicating they may be able to tolerate higher larkspur consumption. The data also indicate that mineral-salt supplementation must be continuous throughout the time the animals are grazing these rangelands as the positive effects can be lost within 30 d post supplementation.

Improving Beef Progeny Performance Through Developmental Programming

Maternal nutritional management during gestation appears to modulate fetal development and imprint offspring postnatal health and performance, via altered organ and tissue development and tissue-specific epigenetics. This review highlighted the studies demonstrating how developmental programming could be explored by beef producers to enhance offspring performance (growth, immune function, and reproduction), including altering cow body condition score (BCS) during pregnancy and maternal supplementation of protein and energy, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), trace minerals, frequency of supplementation, specific amino acids, and vitamins. However, this review also highlighted that programming effects on offspring performance reported in the literature were highly variable and depended on level, duration, timing, and type of nutrient restriction during gestation. It is suggested that maternal BCS gain during gestation, rather than BCS per se, enhances offspring preweaning growth. Opportunities for boosting offspring productive responses through maternal supplementation of protein and energy were identified more consistently for pre- vs. post-weaning phases. Maternal supplementation of specific nutrients (i.e., PUFA, trace minerals, and methionine) demonstrated potential for improving offspring performance, health and carcass characteristics during immunological challenging scenarios. Despite the growing body of evidence in recent years, the complexity of investigating developmental programming in beef cattle production is also growing and potential reasons for current research challenges are highlighted herein. These challenges include: (1) intrinsic difficulty of accurately measuring cow milk production multiple times in cow-calf systems; (2) larger focus on Bos taurus vs. Bos indicus breeds despite the predominance of Bos indicus-influenced beef breeds in tropical/subtropical environments and their specific, and sometimes opposite, physiological and performance outcomes compared to Bos taurus breeds; (3) limited focus on interaction between prenatal and postnatal management; (4) sex-specific outcomes following similar maternal nutrition during gestation; (5) greater focus on nutrient deficiency vs. excess; (6) limited implementation of immunological challenges; and (7) lack of multigeneration and longer periods of offspring evaluation. This review provides multiple evidence that such obstacles need to be overcome in order to significantly advance the scientific knowledge of developmental programming in beef cattle and promote global beef production.

Effect of a Trace Mineral Injection on Performance and Trace Mineral Status of Beef Cows and Calves

The objective was to determine the effects of an injectable trace mineral (TMI; Multimin 90) containing copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn) on trace mineral status and the resulting impacts on reproduction of beef cows and the growth of their calves. Beef cows (n = 200) were assigned to receive TMI or no injection (CON) prior to calving and breeding over two consecutive years. Calves born to cows receiving TMI also received TMI at birth in both years and at 49 ± 1.3 days of age in year 1. The TMI increased (p = 0.01) liver Zn and tended (p = 0.06) to increase liver Cu concentrations. Short-lived effects of TMI on Se were observed. Liver Cu and Zn would have been considered adequate and Se marginal in the CON. Pregnancy due to artificial insemination and overall pregnancy rate did not differ (p ≥ 0.36) between treatments. Use of TMI did not increase calf pre-weaning gain. These data indicate that TMI does not improve the reproductive performance of beef cows with adequate trace mineral status or the pre-weaning performance of their calves.

Supplementing organic-complexed or inorganic Co, Cu, Mn, and Zn to beef cows during gestation: physiological and productive response of cows and their offspring until weaning

One hundred and ninety non-lactating, pregnant beef cows (three-fourth Bos taurus and one-fourth Bos indicus; 138 multiparous and 52 primiparous) were assigned to this experiment at 117 ± 2.2 d of gestation (day 0). Cows were ranked by parity, pregnancy type (artificial insemination = 102 and natural service = 88), body weight (BW), and body condition score (BCS) and assigned to receive a supplement containing: 1) sulfate sources of Cu, Co, Mn, and Zn (INR; n = 95) or 2) an organic-complexed source of Cu, Mn, Co, and Zn (AAC; Availa 4; Zinpro Corporation, Eden Prairie, MN; n = 95). The INR and AAC provided the same daily amount of Cu, Co, Mn, and Zn, based on 7 g of the AAC source. From day 0 to calving, cows were maintained in a single pasture and were segregated three times weekly into 1 of the 24 individual feeding pens to receive treatments. Cow BW and BCS were recorded on days -30, 97, upon calving, and at weaning (day 367). Milk production was estimated at 42 ± 0.5 d postpartum via weigh-suckle-weigh (WSW) method. Liver biopsies were performed in 30 cows per treatment on days -30, 97, upon calving, and the day after WSW. Calf BW was recorded at birth and weaning. Liver and longissimus muscle (LM) biopsies were performed in 30 calves per treatment upon calving and 24 h later, the day after WSW, and at weaning. No treatment effects were detected (P ≥ 0.49) for cow BCS during gestation, despite AAC cows having greater (P = 0.04) BW on day 97. Liver Co concentrations were greater (P < 0.01) for AAC compared with INR cows, and liver concentrations of Cu were greater (P = 0.02) for INR compared with AAC cows on day 97. Upon calving, INR cows had greater (P ≤ 0.01) liver Cu and Zn concentrations compared with AAC cows. No other treatment differences were noted (P ≥ 0.17) for cow and calf liver trace mineral concentrations. Cows receiving AAC had greater (P = 0.04) hepatic mRNA expression of metallothionein 1A at calving, and their calves had greater (P = 0.04) hepatic mRNA expression of superoxide dismutase at weaning. Milk production did not differ between AAC and INR cows (P = 0.70). No treatment effects were detected (P ≥ 0.29) for mRNA expression of LM genes associated with adipogenic or muscle development activities in calves at birth and weaning. Calf birth and weaning BW also did not differ (P ≥ 0.19) between treatments. In summary, supplementing AAC or INR to beef cows during the last 5 mo of gestation yielded similar cow-calf productive responses until weaning.

Comprehensive Assessment of Essential and Potentially Toxic Trace Elements in Bovine Milk and Their Feeds in Different Agro-climatic Zones of Sri Lanka

Fresh milk is an important source of essential mineral supplement for humans. However, the levels of trace elements in milk are an important component of its safety and quality. Trace elements also act as a bio-indicator of agricultural pollution. Samples of raw cow milk (n = 68), animal feed [forage (n = 36) and concentrates (n = 14)], and water (n = 35) were collected from different agro-climatic regions of Sri Lanka. The concentrations of 15 trace elements including toxic heavy metals such as Cd, Pb, and As were quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry after microwave-assisted digestion. Among the studied trace elements, the mean elemental concentrations of Se, Cd, As, and Cu in cow milk were 18.1, 1.45, 7.35, and 71.7 μg L^-1, respectively. The mean concentrations of these elements in forage were 0.216, 0.066, 0.046, and 9.21 mg kg^-1, and in concentrate feed were 0.329, 0.202, 0.229, and 2.28 mg kg^-1, respectively. The As content of the studied milk was well below the maximum permissible level while 15% of the samples had Pb exceeding the permissible limit of 20 μg L^-1. However, As, Cd, and Pb levels in drinking water provided to animals were well below the WHO permissible limits. The results of this study revealed that the trace elements in cow milk depend mainly on the feed, and hence, levels of these contaminants in feed materials should be monitored. Although due to the consumption of milk, the populations have a minor exposure to trace elements and also minimum health risks, a detailed study with a large number of samples is highly recommended.

Effects of a long-acting trace mineral rumen bolus upon range cow productivity

The objectives were to determine if strategic supplementation of range cows in central Arizona with either two or four long acting (6 mo) trace mineral rumen boluses containing Cu, Se, and Co would: 1) decrease yearly calving interval; 2) increase cow body condition, milk production, or calf adjusted weaning weights; and 3) to see if any of the above traits varied by cow breed. There were 194 Hereford (H) and 132 Composite (CGC; 50% Red Angus, 25% Tarentaise, 25% Charolais) control cows, 173 H and 125 CGC 1X treated (2 boluses in late winter) cows, and 183 H and 117 CGC 2X treated (2 boluses in autumn and 2 in late winter) cows used over the 4-yr period. Cows were weighed and scored for body condition (1-9, 9 = fattest) in February, May, and September of each year. Milk production was determined by weigh-suckle-weigh on a subset of cows (n = 169) at an average of 50 d lactation. The outcomes were analyzed using a restricted maximum likelihood-based mixed-effects model that included the categorical, fixed effects of breed, bolus, and year with the interactions of breed × bolus, and breed × year. For adjusted weaning wt (WW), year × bolus was added. The random effect of cow was also included. Calving interval had only the breed × bolus interaction added to the main effects. Age of dam was added as a covariate to all models. Milk production used the same model as calving interval with the added covariate of postpartum interval. Cow body condition score and calf adjusted weaning weights differed by breed and treatment (P < 0.05) with WW being greater (P < 0.05) for calves from 2X cows than for control calves. Milk production differed by year (P < 0.0001) but did not differ by either breed or treatment (P > 0.05). Calving interval was 389 ± 2.7, 382 ± 3.2, and 378 ± 3.2 d for control, 1X, and 2X treatments, respectively and calving interval declined (P < 0.05) from the control to the 2X treatment group. Strategic supplementation via a long-acting trace mineral bolus was successful in decreasing calving interval and increasing calf-weaning weights from cattle grazed in an extensive rangeland environment.

Effects of a vitamin and mineral bolus on beef heifer feedlot performance, feeding behavior, carcass characteristics, and liver mineral concentrations

Crossbred beef heifers (n = 23; initial body weight [BW] = 370 ± 12 kg) housed at the North Dakota State University Beef Cattle Research Complex in Fargo, ND, were used to evaluate the effects of a 250-d slow-release vitamin and mineral bolus on feedlot performance, feeding behavior, carcass characteristics, and liver mineral concentrations. Heifers were assigned to one of two treatments: 1) received no supplemental mineral or vitamin (CON, n = 12) or 2) received two boluses on day 0 (minimum of 3,740 mg Ca, 16,456 mg Mg, 112 mg Na, 11,220 mg Cu, 2,995 mg I, 2,805 mg Mn, 505 mg Se, 48,620 mg Zn, 468 mg Co, 824,296 IU vitamin A, 173,102 IU vitamin D3, and 4,121 IU vitamin E bases on company analysis; Reloader 250 Mineral Bolus, Cargill Inc., Minneapolis, MN; MIN, n = 11). Heifers were fed a total mixed ration containing corn silage, grass hay, dried distillers grains with solubles, and dry-rolled corn (16.05% crude protein, 1.44 Mcal/kg NEg) with no added vitamin or mineral supplement. Feed intake and number and time of visits were recorded for each heifer using the Insentec feeding system (Hokofarm Group B.V., the Netherlands) during the feeding period. Liver biopsies were collected from heifers on days 0, 69, and 134 of the feeding period for analysis of mineral concentrations and analyzed as repeated measures. Heifers were slaughtered after 150 or 169 d on feed, and carcass characteristics were determined. Final BW, average daily gain, dry matter index, gain:feed, and carcass characteristics were not influenced (P > 0.19) by treatment. Control heifers visited feeders more but spent less time per visit and ate less per visit compared with MIN heifers (P < 0.03). No differences (P > 0.06) in liver mineral concentrations were observed between treatments, and concentrations of Se, Cu, Mo, Mn, and Co decreased (P < 0.05) over the feeding period. In this experiment, the slow-release vitamin and mineral bolus evaluated failed to increase liver mineral concentrations during the finishing period or influence heifer performance and carcass characteristics.

Safety and efficacy of sodium selenate as feed additive for ruminants

Following a request from the European Commission, EFSA was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the safety and efficacy of sodium selenate as a nutritional feed additive for ruminants, when used via an intraruminal bolus in ruminants. The EFSA Panel on Additives and Products or Substances used in Animal Feed (FEEDAP) Panel concludes that based on (i) the estimation of the release of selenium from the bolus, (ii) the similarities in bioavailability with sodium selenite, (iii) the experience with the use of boluses in ruminant nutrition and (iv) the wide margin of safety compared with the maximum tolerable levels of selenium in ruminants, the additive is safe for ruminants. The use of sodium selenate by bolus administration providing a selenium intake not exceeding that resulting from the maximum authorised EU level of total selenium in feed presents no concerns for consumer safety. The additive does not pose a risk to users by inhalation and is considered as non‐corrosive but irritant for the skin and the eyes. The FEEDAP Panel considers the additive as a skin sensitiser and respiratory sensitiser. The additive under assessment, in its intended use as complementary feed for ruminants in the form of boluses, is a substitute for other authorised selenium additives and will not further increase the environmental burden of selenium. Based on two studies submitted in cattle and sheep and studies from the literature, the FEEDAP Panel concludes that sodium selenate delivered by a bolus to ruminants is an efficacious source of selenium in meeting the animals’ requirements. The Panel posed some recommendations regarding the use of the bolus, especially in small size ruminants. The Panel also posed a remark, concerning the zinc content of the bolus from which the additive is delivered.

Effects of Mn supplementation in late-gestating and lactating red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus) on milk production, milk composition, and calf growth

This study describes the effects of Mn supplementation of 20 late-gestating and lactating Iberian red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus) females (hinds) fed a balanced diet on milk production and milk composition over the lactation period. Body weight of their calves at birth and at weaning was also evaluated. In addition, the effect of lactation stage was studied. For these purposes, 2 groups of hinds, one composed by 12 individuals (experimental) and the other by 8 individuals (control) were compared. Experimental hinds were s.c. injected weekly with Mn (2 mg Mn/kg BW) from day 140 of gestation until the end of lactation (week 18; forced weaning by physical separation). Control hinds were injected with a physiological saline solution with the same volume and at the same frequency as the experimental group. Serum Mn content of hinds was assessed just before the first Mn injection and at week 10 of lactation to assess whether the injected Mn increased Mn concentrations in blood. No differences were observed for BW of calves at birth but calves whose mothers were injected with Mn tended (P = 0.07) to have greater gain of BW from birth to weaning in proportion of BW at birth compared to calves from control hinds. In addition, supplementation with Mn increased (P ≤ 0.05) daily milk production by 10.2%, milk fat content by 11.2%, and total fat yield by 17.8%. Also, milk from hinds supplemented with Mn had more Ca (P < 0.001) and P (P < 0.05) than milk from control hinds. Manganese supplementation did not influence Mn serum content when blood was analyzed at week 10 of lactation, but increased the Mn content of milk by 18.3% (P < 0.001). Lactation stage affected (P < 0.001) fat, protein, lactose, and DM. Their contents increased as lactation proceeded, and protein was substituted by fat. Therefore, results suggest that Mn supplementation of hinds is recommended, even when they are fed a balanced diet, to increase milk production and the content of fat, Ca, P, and Mn of milk.

Effects of prepartum sustained-release trace elements ruminal bolus on performance, colustrum composition and blood metabolites in Najdi ewes

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the supplementation of slow release bolus of selenium (Se), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), cobalt (Co), phosphorous (P), manganese (Mn), and iodine (I) at late gestation (60 day prepartum) on performance of Najdi ewes and their newborn. Twenty Najdi ewes at late gestation were randomly selected from a herd raised under an intensive system and equally divided into two groups (control and treated). Blood samples were collected from ewes and newborns at parturition. Body weights of newborns were taken at birth, 30 and 60 days. A significant (P < 0.05) increase in Cu and Co in blood of dams treated with boluses with an increase (P < 0.05) in blood P, Zn, Cu, Co, and Se of their newborn lambs were observed. Creatinine and triglyceride were significantly (P < 0.05) low in treated newborn while urea was significantly (P < 0.05) high in the same group. In dams, significantly (P < 0.05) low concentration of triglyceride was observed. Body weight of lambs from treated group at 30 days was significantly (P < 0.05) higher when compared with the control. In conclusion, bolus of trace minerals at late gestation improved some mineral status of ewes and the newborns with higher body weight.

Effects of organic or inorganic cobalt, copper, manganese, and zinc supplementation to late-gestating beef cows on productive and physiological responses of the offspring

Eighty-four multiparous, nonlactating, pregnant Angus × Hereford cows were ranked by pregnancy type (56 AI and 28 natural service), BW, and BCS and allocated to 21 drylot pens at the end of their second trimester of gestation (d 0). Pens were assigned to receive forage-based diets containing 1) sulfate sources of Cu, Co, Mn, and Zn (INR); 2) an organic complexed source of Cu, Mn, Co, and Zn (AAC; Availa 4; Zinpro Corporation, Eden Prairie, MN); or 3) no supplemental Cu, Co, Mn, and Zn (CON). Diets were offered from d 0 until calving and formulated to meet requirements for energy, protein, macrominerals, Se, I, and vitamins. The INR and AAC diets provided the same daily amount of Cu, Co, Mn, and Zn. Cow BW and BCS were recorded and liver samples were collected on d -10 and 2 wk (d 75) before the calving season. Within 3 h after calving, calf BW was recorded, liver samples were collected, and the expelled placenta was retrieved ( = 47 placentas). Calves were weaned on d 283 of the experiment, preconditioned for 45 d (d 283 to 328), transferred to a growing lot on d 328, and moved to a finishing lot on d 440 where they remained until slaughter. Liver Co, Cu, and Zn concentrations on d 75 were greater ( ≤ 0.05) for INR and AAC cows compared with CON cows, whereas INR cows had reduced ( = 0.04) liver Co but greater ( = 0.03) liver Cu compared with AAC cows. In placental cotyledons, Co concentrations were greater ( ≤ 0.05) in AAC and INR cows compared with CON cows, whereas Cu concentrations were increased ( = 0.05) only in AAC cows compared with CON cows. Calves from INR and AAC cows had greater ( < 0.01) liver Co concentrations at birth compared with calves from CON cows. Liver Cu and Zn concentrations at birth were greater ( ≤ 0.05) in calves from AAC cows compared with cohorts from CON cows. Weaning BW was greater ( ≤ 0.05) in calves from AAC cows compared with cohorts from CON cows, and this difference was maintained until slaughter. In the growing lot, calves from AAC cows had reduced ( < 0.01) incidence of bovine respiratory disease compared with CON and INR cohorts. Collectively, these results suggest that feeding the AAC diet to late-gestating beef cows stimulated programming effects on postnatal offspring growth and health compared with the CON diet. Therefore, supplementing late-gestating beef cows with an organic complexed source of Co, Cu, Zn, and Mn instead of no supplementation appears to optimize offspring productivity in beef production systems.

Comparative effects of direct-fed microbials alone or with a trace minerals supplements on the productive performance, blood metabolites, and antioxidant status in grazing Awassi lambs

Twenty Awassi lambs were used to find the effects of direct-fed microbials (DFM) and long-acting trace minerals rumen bolus (TMB) supplements on performance, blood biochemical variables, and antioxidant status of the lambs under grazing conditions. The lambs were randomly distributed into four groups as follows: (1) untreated, (2) oral dose of 5 mL DFM, (3) TMB, or (4) oral dose of 5 mL DFM and TMB. The treatments were carried out for 90 days. Supplementation with TMB significantly increased (P < 0.05) average daily gain (ADG) and feed efficiency compared with the control. A significant (P < 0.05) increase in blood albumin in the DFM and a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in aspartate aminotrasferase were found in the lambs supplemented with TMB alone or in combination with DFM. Supplementing lambs with TMB resulted in higher glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity (P < 0.001) and activity of superoxide dismutase (P < 0.05) compared with no supplementation and supplementation with DFM only. In conclusion, TMB supplementation had a positive impact on performance traits and the antioxidant system of the lambs under grazing condition.

Effects of a long-acting trace mineral rumen bolus supplement on growth performance, metabolic profiles, and trace mineral status of growing camels

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of a long-acting trace mineral rumen bolus (TMB) supplement on the productive performance, metabolic profiles, and trace mineral status of growing camels under natural grazing conditions. Fifteen 6-month-old growing male camels (average bodyweight 139.51 ± 26.49 kg) were used in a 150-day trial. Animals were individually housed in a shaded pen and randomly assigned to receive zero (control group, CON), one (TMB1), or two (TMB2) long-acting TMBs. Feed intake was measured weekly, and camels were weighed monthly. Blood samples were collected from all camels on days 1, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 to obtain metabolic profiles. Zinc, selenium, copper, cobalt, and manganese concentrations were determined in the diet, serum, and liver. In comparison with controls, giving camels one TMB increased the average daily gain (14.38%; P < 0.04) and feed efficiency (13.68%; P < 0.01). Additionally, the serum and liver concentrations of zinc, copper, selenium, cobalt, and manganese were greater (P < 0.01) in camels in the TMB2 group. These data indicate that TMB supplementation has positive effects on the growth performance and trace mineral profiles of camels. Different levels, sources, and synergistic combinations of trace minerals can be used in further studies to elucidate their abilities to increase productive variables as well as their availability and cost to the camel industry.

Concentrations of toxic heavy metals and trace elements in raw milk of Simmental and Holstein-Friesian cows from organic farm

Concentrations of toxic heavy metals (cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb)) and major nutritional and trace elements (Ca, Mg, P, Cu, Fe, Mn, Se, Zn) were analyzed in the milk of Simmental (n = 20) and Holstein-Friesian (n = 20) cows from an organic farm. Elements were determined using inductively coupled plasma emission atomic spectrometry. The conducted research showed that the milk of Simmental cows was characterized by the more advantageous mineral composition and lower concentration of noxious heavy metals compared to the milk of Holstein-Friesian cows. In the milk of Simmental cows, significantly lower concentrations of Pb and Cd (P < 0.001) and Cu (P < 0.05) and significantly higher concentrations of Fe and Mg (P < 0.05) as well as nonsignificantly higher concentrations of Ca, Mn, and Se were found. In the milk of both breeds, very low Cu concentrations were recorded. The higher-than-recommended concentration of Pb in milk was also found. In the milk of both breeds, the significant positive correlations between concentrations of the following elements were observed: Pb-Cd, Pb-Se, Cd-Se, Cd-Mn, Zn-Cu, Zn-P, Ca-P, Ca-Mg, and Mg-P. The correlations between other elements within each of the analyzed breeds separately were also found.

Balling gun-induced trauma in cattle: clinical presentation, diagnosis and prevention

Pharyngeal trauma in cattle can occur during the administration of oral medication using a balling gun. The number of cases of severe complications due to bolus application that have been referred to our hospital has increased from nil between 1996 and 2008 to three or four per year. In our experience, reports by bovine veterinarians of patients with severe and often fatal pharyngeal trauma, which were not referred to the clinic, have become more common in recent years as well. The incidence of this complication is likely to be higher than this number of referrals suggests. Diagnosis without the help of imaging techniques, such as radiography and endoscopy, may be difficult, especially in cases where exploration of the pharynx cannot be carried out, or is unable to confirm the absence or presence of a lesion. Prognosis is often poor in cases where perforation has been confirmed. Boluses are increasingly administered by the owners or farm personnel without the supervision of a veterinarian. In order to prevent losses due to balling gun-induced injuries, the veterinarian plays a crucial role in giving advice to his clients. Five cases of cattle suffering from varying degrees of balling gun-induced trauma are presented, and consideration is given to incorrect application techniques.

Trace element supplementation of livestock in new zealand: meeting the challenges of free-range grazing systems

Managing the mineral nutrition of free-range grazing livestock can be challenging. On farms where grazing animals are infrequently yarded, there are limited opportunities to administer trace element supplements via feeds and concentrates. In New Zealand, where the majority of sheep, cattle, and deer graze pasture year round, inadequate intake of cobalt, copper, iodine and selenium is prevalent. Scientists and farmers have developed efficient strategies to monitor and treat these dietary deficiencies. Supplementation methods suited to grazing livestock include long-acting injections, slow-release intraruminal boluses, trace element-amended fertilisers, and reticulated water supplies on dairy farms.