PSX-28 - Assessment of a neonatal supplement to improve health in cattle

Abstract: The objective of this study was to evaluate an easy to administer and economical oral nutritional supplement for neonatal calves. Neonates are at risk of nutrient deficiencies because of maternal deficiencies, low body stores at birth and low nutritional intake. The pre-ruminating calf relies solely on milk for adequate immunity and nutrition until they begin ingesting forage. Insufficiencies can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. However, deficiencies in the cow are common due to variation in management, feeding and health protocols. A total of 21 beef calves in year 1 and 40 in year 2 were enrolled in the study. The calves were divided into experimental and control groups which received a vitamin-mineral supplement (VitaFerst-Care) and a saline solution at 1-3 days of age, respectively. Blood samples were collected, prior to, and again following supplementation (d14 in year 1 & d3 in year 2) by jugular venipuncture. Iron and selenium concentrations were determined in blood serum of a subset of calves (n=21 Y1, n=40 Y2) by ICP-MS. All beef calves remained on their mothers. Iron (Fe): In year 1, control calves had stable iron levels at 1.35 +0.62ppm (d0) and 1.33 +0.77ppm (d14), with 50% of calves deficient. Iron concentrations in treatment calves increased slightly from 1.17 +0.56ppm to 1.43 +0.65ppm. In year 2, iron levels of control calves changed slightly from 1.69 +0.91ppm (d0) to 1.98 +2.24ppm (d3). The iron concentrations in treatment calves further increased from 1.86 +0.67 ppm to 2.33 +2.16ppm. Selenium (Se): Selenium concentrations were deficient in all calves in year 1 (0.06 +0.01ppm) and year 2 (0.07 +0.02ppm) with no significant changes between treatment groups. This research provides insight regarding the severity and prevalence of nutrient deficiencies in newborn calves. All calves in the study were deficient in selenium, and between 30-50% were deficient in iron each year. Following supplementation, there was no significant increase in blood mineral concentrations between d0 and d14, however, between d0 and d3 there was a significant increase in blood iron concentration of calves.