Cobalt deficiency is prevalent in New Zealand flocks. Cobalt is converted into B12 in the ruminant. Deficiencies in cobalt lead to low levels of Vitamin B12 in the body limiting the ability to convert energy, restricting feed metabolism and minimising weight gains. Common indicators include ill thrift, anaemia and poor growth.
It is commonly documented that pre-ruminant lambs do not have the ability to synthesise cobalt into Vitamin B12. Grace & Knowles (2012) suggest that young pre-ruminant lambs require Vitamin B12 (not cobalt) through milk or supplements.
The specific role of Vitamin B12 is for energy and protein metabolism to essentially provide the cells within the body the ability to convert pasture into energy, therefore enhancing good weight gains.
Beef & Lamb (2007) Fact Sheet emphasises that treating ewe’s with Cobalt pre-lambing only gives 3-4 weeks protection to their lambs. Thereby recommending the importance of providing Vitamin B12 at docking and weaning time as lambs need B12 as early as possible. Research suggests that at 3-5 weeks of age supplementation of Vitamin B12 will support significant live weight advantages in stock that are deficient.
The technology used in palaMOUNTAINS Revive allowing solubilisation of nutrients assists to deliver and restore levels of these essential nutrients in the body. palaMOUNTAINS Revive contains a comprehensive range of nutrients including; Omegas, B Vitamins and A, D, E Vitamins and minerals as standard and is now available with an additional Vitamin B12 Lamb Booster at docking and weaning which will aid in increased weight gains from pasture at a minimal cost of less than 3 cents per lamb. Additional trace elements can also be added for docking and weaning requirements.
palaMOUNTAINS Revive provides a 99.5% absorption rate (Massey University, 2004) by enhancing cellular uptake in the gut, ensuring your lambs get the full benefit of these crucial nutrients.
What to feed your herd and when:
Vitamin B12 (1mg) Improves growth rates and weight gains by providing energy for protein metabolism. (Beef & Lamb recommended).
Selenium improves growth rates. (Beef & Lamb recommended).
Vitamin B12 (2mg) Improves growth rates and weight gains by providing energy for protein metabolism.
Cobalt, Iodine, Copper and Selenium.
Selenium - Beef & Lamb suggest 3rd dose.
Milk thistle – for liver health & recovery (where Eczema is prevalent).
Iodine For increased reproductive performance. (Beef & Lamb recommended).
Selenium For increased embryo survival. (Beef & Lamb recommended).
Milk Thistle for liver health & recovery (where Eczema is prevalent).
Iodine Beef & Lamb suggest 2 x iodine 4 + 8 weeks pre-lamb. (Beef & Lamb recommended).
Cobalt Synthesis of Vitamin B12 (energy & protein metabolism) and prevents lamb mortality.
Provides vitamin B12 to the lamb until 3 weeks of age.
Copper Bone development, fleece development and protects the integrity of the immune system. Protect lambs who are most susceptible to copper deficiency until 10 weeks of age.
Iodine Protects lambs against Goitre, increases birth weights & temperature tolerance of the lamb. (Beef & Lamb recommended)
Selenium for regular heats, better ovulation & embryo fertilisation.
Phosphorus decreases silent heats, irregular heats & low conception.
