Dairy farms grazing pastures that have been waterlogged over the winter should be mindful of potential mineral imbalances and their impact on the reproductive performance of cows and heifers.
This is the advice of Rumenco’s Technical Services Manager Dr Alison Bond, who says that the anaerobic soil conditions resulting from flooding will have interfered with the mineral and trace element profile, potentially changing the availability of important nutrients in grass.
She points in particular to the risk of higher levels of available molybdenum, which is a known consequence of waterlogging and can lead to secondary copper deficiency.
“Copper deficiency is a common cause of reproductive problems in cattle,” she says, “as it causes depressed or delayed oestrus, and a reduction in conception rates. For spring calving herds, the early grazing season is the time for getting cows back in calf, so it will be particularly important to avoid any mineral imbalances at this time.
“Where there are high levels of available molybdenum, as can happen in soils that have been waterlogged, there is an increased risk of copper deficiency. This is due to an interaction between the available copper and molybdenum reducing overall copper absorption. In these situations, it is important to ensure that cattle are adequately supplemented to avoid any impact on fertility in particular.”
Dr Bond recommends the use of appropriately formulated mineral blocks as a convenient, low-labour, and cost-effective solution for grazing cattle.
“Rumenco has developed Rumevite Cattle Booster as a high energy and protein feed and mineral block suitable for dairy cows, suckler cows, replacement heifers and other growing cattle,” she adds. “This block has been specifically formulated with optimal levels of minerals, vitamins and trace elements, including copper, to support fertility in breeding cattle, and protected zinc to guard against issues such as lameness and mastitis. In addition, Rumevite Cattle Booster contains good levels of energy, along with natural and urea protein sources will complement and support the utilisation of lower quality forages or grazing as the season progresses, ensuring animals stay on track with growth and production
Dr Bond says the free-access nature of mineral blocks avoids bullying and ensures all cattle should receive adequate supplementation, with little impact on daily routines.
“Younger cattle can be particularly susceptible to copper deficiency, so supplementation of bulling heifers, for example, should be a priority, especially if there are any concerns about mineral imbalances in grazing or forage.”
