Cobalt Deficiency in Cattle

Summary

Many producers use vitamin B12 injections or intraruminal cobalt pills to ensure against cobalt deficiency but few producers know if their cattle have vitamin B12 levels likely to be responsive to treatment. A drought in 2002 led to a modification of the original protocol. Forty head of cattle from five properties were bled on two occasions to determine vitamin B12 levels and the need for treatment.

During May 2003, eight cattle (grazing in a single mob) from five properties were bled to determine plasma vitamin B12 status. The property numbers were consistent between the original project and this project extension. Treatment was provided to increase vitamin B12 levels in those animals that demonstrated a low level of vitamin B12. The procedure was repeated in February 2004. This time, blood was also analysed for glutathione peroxidase activity to determine the selenium status.

Two site visits by local veterinarians were made to sample animals. Blood sample reports were sent to collaborators after each sampling. A final workshop, attended by around 20 cattle producers, was held in May 2004 at Tenterfield. Project results and results of cattle selenium status were presented at a workshop. Workshop outcomes were also published in local newspapers and newsletters.