Turning out livestock from winter housing could mean many animals are at risk from a performance-limiting trace element gap. As spring grass growth accelerates, trace element intakes may be compromised.

Although abundant fresh grass is available on pasture, many animals will face a gap in trace elements because of a withdrawal from mineralised concentrate feed and because many pastures in the UK have a shortfall in some essential trace elements.

Making best use of spring grass is essential to minimise production costs for cattle. However, the weather’s unpredictability does mean grazing livestock performance depends on grass quantity and quality.

Trace element availability can be affected by:

• Heavy rainfall - which causes trace elements to be leached out of the soil.
• Prolonged dry periods - decreasing the availability of minerals in grass.
• Rapidly growing grass - can result in a dilution of trace elements.
• Increased fertiliser - which use can reduce the availability of trace elements.

To support a smooth transition from housed diets to grazing and preparing for spring grazing conditions, a bolus such as Essential Cattle provides cobalt, iodine and selenium, available with copper if required.

For cattle, an Essential Cattle bolus will maintain essential trace element supply when a shortfall could affect health and fertility.

The correct trace element supplementation can aid in the efficient utilisation of grass.

• COPPER: Promotes growth and fertility
• IODINE: Optimises metabolism and calf vitality
• COBALT: Optimises appetite and weight gain
• SELENIUM: Supports fertility and immune status

The Essential Bolus range are sustained release eroding boluses that provide an immediate and consistent supply of trace elements over a full 180 days, from day 1. This unique bolus technology ensures that:

• Trace elements are evenly distributed in a wax matrix and are released consistently throughout their full active life.
• The uniform density of the bolus reduces the risk of regurgitation.
• One simple single application provides 6 months of cover (depending on the product).

Administering a bolus is easy to do can be added alongside other parts of your animal health routine, such as worming and vaccinating etc.

To find out more about the full range of Essential Boluses, contact your local Downland franchise partner who will provide invaluable advice and solutions for your area.