Dry cow bolus

Vitamins and trace elements during the dry period

Trace minerals such as iron (Fe), copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), iodine (I), manganese (Mn), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn) are crucial for the health and development of both the mother and the fetus during pregnancy. During the close-up period (2-4 weeks before calving) the requirements for vitamins and trace-elements are higher as 60% of the weight of the fetus is gained in the last 3 weeks. 

Around calving, the immune system of the dairy cow is suppressed which increases the risk of infections. This weakened immune system is partly because of a decrease in blood concentrations of vitamins A and E, selenium, and zinc. These deficiencies have also been proven to lead to mastitis, metritis, and retained placenta [8]. When selenium deficient dry cows where supplemented with selenium and vitamin E 20 days before calving, the incidence of retained placenta lowered from 50% to 10%. Insufficient vitamin A also results in retained placenta, but can even lead to abortion or the birth of weak or death calves.

Table: Parturient disorders and associated nutrients

Why use a bolus?

1. Easy in use
2. Easy storage and transportation
3. No need to give daily supplements
4. No need to calculate supplementary feed
5. Each cow gets the right dose
6. No spilling

You can combine Drytop with other boluses!

Drytop can be used together with other boluses during drying off, most notably with Mammitop Clinic and Hooftop. Ask our advice for all the possibilities.