What is the best mineral feed for cattle? There are many choices when it comes to mineral feed for cattle. You can find different blends to fit your specific needs. Whether you are looking to boost the production of your cattle or you’re trying to accelerate calf rearing, you’ll find a mineral feed that will meet your needs. Here are some of the most common options:
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Deficiency of manganese in beef cattle
Deficiency of manganese in cattle is not a disease, but it can affect the cattle in several ways. The deficiency results in abnormal and stunted growth, malformed bones, and even reduced fertility. Manganese is also important for reproductive performance and is a cofactor for enzymes involved in fat, carbohydrate, and energy metabolism. Deficiency in beef cattle can affect growth, fertility, and leg deformities. Zinc is another mineral necessary for beef cattle. It is essential for the development of healthy bones and connective tissue and can cause a cow to have deformed legs.
In a study conducted in 2001 by the National Research Council, researchers fed milk cows diets containing ten to thirty parts per million (ppm) of manganese. They found that three out of eight cows fed 10 ppm of manganese developed liver abscesses while those fed 30 ppm had no abscesses. Currently, it is unclear whether manganese affects liver abscess in beef cattle. It is important to note that manganese requirements vary greatly depending on the region and species of cattle.
Deficiency of copper in beef cattle
Deficiency of copper in beef cattle has been observed in various regions of the United States, particularly in the Northeast. Copper deficiency can be clinically evident in young cattle at pasture. Clinical signs of deficiency of copper include poor growth rates and de-pigmentation (grey/brown discolouration of the coat, particularly around the eyes and ear margins). The hair coat can also become sparse and dry, and the growth plate can widen. Affected cattle will often show diarrhea and weight loss, as well as have anaemia.
Copper levels in forages and water are low in the upper Midwest. Cattle in these areas may be deficient in copper because they are not fed a sufficient copper-rich diet. Copper deficiencies in cattle are often worse during the breeding season, when cows calve and breed. Copper concentrations in forage may be too low to overcome this problem, so copper supplementation may not be the only option. Cows grazing in pastures with high levels of sulfur may also be deficient in copper.
Deficiency of zinc in beef cattle
A deficiency of zinc in beef cattle can lead to a variety of disorders in both cattle and humans. Studies by Bonomi A and Bonomi BM, et al., have shown that deficient status is associated with poor health in cows and calves, while marginal herd status is associated with increased risks of infectious disease and myopathy. In addition, a low-adequate status has been associated with lower milk production and impaired locomotion in dairy herds.
Deficiency of zinc in beef cattle can also affect other livestock, including poultry. Studies have shown that cattle are not able to synthesize adequate zinc when fed conventional diets, and supplemental zinc supplements are often recommended for beef cattle. However, in many cases, the cattle will be able to replenish zinc when the zinc level is high enough. Therefore, zinc-rich feeds should be provided to cattle.
Deficiency of copper in small grain forages
Deficiency of copper in small grain-based forages can affect cattle in many ways. While adult cattle may not show any signs of copper deficiency, yearlings and sucking calves may exhibit diarrhea and body condition problems. In severe cases, deficiency has been linked to abortion, infertility, and reduced milk yield. In addition, copper deficiency is known to increase the risk of fractures to the scapulum, humer bone, and femur.
Copper is found in soil in many chemical forms and some of these forms are available to plants. However, the total amount of soil copper has limited value as a diagnostic guide and its usefulness to plants is also limited. Soil associations with copper deficiencies have included sandy soils, heavily leached soils, and alkaline silt loams. In addition, muck and peat soils are often associated with copper deficiencies.
Deficiency of copper in concentrate feed
Copper is a trace element essential for the growth and development of animals, particularly cattle. Copper is important for the production of antibodies, white blood cells, and antioxidant enzymes, which make the body more resistant to disease. Inadequate amounts of copper in feed lead to reduced growth and immunity in cattle. Copper deficiency in cattle leads to decreased milk production and death losses. Copper supplements are beneficial for cattle.
A recent study evaluated the effects of severe Cu deficiency on growth and gene expression in beef cattle. Calves fed diets containing 10 mg/kg Mn were compared to those receiving only supplemental Cu. Calves fed the +Cu diet showed less growth than those fed with a low-Cu diet. High-dietary Mn significantly reduced plasma Cu levels in the -Cu group.
