Why Supplement with Minerals?

Managing Mineral and Vitamin Status in Dry and Lactating Cows

A comprehensive dry cow management program must address the issue of metabolic disorders to ensure optimum conception rates in the next lactation, also management needs to take into account, regeneration of mammary tissue, nutrition for foetal growth and drop in dry matter intake in the last 3 weeks pre-calving.

The objectives of a dry cow management program must be that:

1. Cows calve in optimum calcium status
2. Immune system must be maximised for calving
3. Rumen papilla must be stimulated
4. Reduction of metabolic disorders at calving
5. Production of high quality colostrum

During the past ten years there has been significant advances in the understanding of the effect of calcium, magnesium, trace element and vitamin supplementation on the general health and milk production of dairy cows.

The concentrations of vital vitamins and minerals naturally decrease around calving time and extra supplementation is recommended. The requirements for these can vary depending on the quantity and quality of feedstuffs in the diet.

The use of a premium quality pre-calver containing high levels of magnesium, vitamins and bio-available trace elements has been proven to reduce metabolic disorders at calving in addition to boosting fertility and milk production upon return to lactation.

Following on from calving, vitamins and trace elements are also required for their roles in fertility and immunity.

A good quality post-calving mineral with balanced levels of calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, vitamins and yeast (to boost rumen health) is recommended to ensure optimum production and fertility.

Nutribio Nutritionist (Pat O Byrne) BAgSc