Prevention of trace element deficiencies in grazing ruminants: an evaluation of methods

Abstract

The prevention of cobalt, copper, selenium and iodine deficiencies is an important feature of stock health programmes on many New Zealand farms. Various methods of prevention involving direct supplementation to animals and topdressing pastures have been evaluated. F%otocols for the amounts administered and frequency of supplementation for Co, Cu, Se and I have been outlined. Keywords: cattle, cobalt, copper, deficiencies, iodine, deficiencies, prevention protocols, selenium, sheep