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From the time of birth until weaning, dairy calves are faced with many disease challenges and
stressors. Maternity pen management, timely administration of colostrum, sanitation, proper
housing and pre-weaning nutrition are fundamental in increasing calf resistance to disease and
reducing the calf’s exposure to harmful pathogens. Unfortunately, of the pre-weaned calves that
die in the U.S., 56% suffered from diarrhea or other digestive disorders, and at least 22% suffer from
respiratory disease (NAHMS 2007). Treatment of disease, death of potential replacement heifers and
potentially delaying the age at which heifers calve for the first time can be very costly for the dairy.
Metabolic demands for growth, stress and fighting off invading pathogens by the immune system
results in the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS are very damaging to normal cells
of the body including the immune system. Oxidative stress occurs when the antioxidant systems
of the body are overwhelmed. Trace minerals such as zinc, manganese, selenium and copper
are essential in the formation of antioxidants which neutralize the harmful effects of ROS. By
maintaining the oxidative defense system, resistance to disease challenge can be maintained
through protecting the immune system.
Multimin® 90 is an injectable trace mineral supplement containing zinc, manganese, selenium
and copper. Recently the administration of Multimin® 90 into dairy calves at 3 and 30 days of age
was evaluated in a large trial by Cornell University. At 14 days of life, calves supplemented with
Multimin® 90 demonstrated greater immune
function and higher antioxidant activity. In
addition, calves supplemented with Multimin®
90 had a significantly lower incidence of diarrhea
and the combined incidence of pneumonia and
otitis.
Teixeira A.G.V., Lima F.S., Bicalho M.L.S., Kussler A., Lima
S.F., Felippe M.J., Bicalho R.C. Effect of an injectable trace
mineral supplement containing selenium, copper, zinc
and manganese on immunity, health and growth of
dairy calves.
Journal of Dairy Science Volume 97, Number 7, July 2014.
Managing Dairy Calf Health
