The importance of pre-calving nutrition

As spring calving approaches, now is the time to pay some extra attention to pre-calving nutrition to ensure that pregnant cows obtain the correct levels of trace elements and nutrients to ensure healthy calves are born with ease.

Various methods can be used to supplement pregnant cattle and Mole-LYX Pre Calver Elite mineral buckets are a great option for those looking at free-access products, which provide essential vitamins and minerals at this crucial time. 

Many problems during the calving season are linked to the deficiency of macronutrients and trace elements. An imbalance of magnesium or calcium can cause catastrophic incidences of hypomagnesaemia (grass staggers) or hypocalcaemia (milk fever).  

Iodine is particularly important as it supports calf development and vigour, alongside selenium and vitamin E, which are essential to support cow and calf immunity. Cows are unable to store iodine and if they do not have access to a readily available source of iodine, it may be more likely to retain the placenta, which can lead to metritis. Retained placenta can also occur when there is a selenium and vitamin E deficiency. 

Mole-LYX Pre Calver Elite is a very high-specification mineral bucket which contains elevated levels of all the essential minerals, vitamins and trace elements required by a dry cow. It is formulated with high magnesium, zinc, iodine, selenium, protected copper, Sel-Plex and vitamin E and should be introduced eight weeks prior to calving. 

Rumenco’s new CalverMaxx bucket is a palatable, high-sugar product providing a readily available source of energy to support calf growth, colostrum production and future cow fertility. It delivers all the minerals, trace elements and vitamins that are essential during the pre-calving period, including high levels of iodine and protected copper, supporting calf development and return to oestrus. 

Rumenco’s LIFELINE Pre-Calver is a range specifically formulated for in-calf cows and heifers to help support calving ease, cow and calf immunity, calf vigour, colostrum quality and fertility post-calving. The supplements are available as a bucket or mineral crumb and provide an optimal supply of key minerals, trace elements and vitamins, including magnesium, selenium, copper from multiple sources and vitamin E.

Mole-LYX Pre Calver Elite 20kg, CalverMAXX 22.5kg and LIFELINE Pre-Calver Bucket 22.5kg are all BUY 10 GET 11TH FREE UNTIL 31ST JANUARY 2024 while stocks last.  

For more information on pre-calving nutrition contact the Alternative Feeds & Blends line on 01566 780261 or visit your local store.