Cattle get most of their minerals and trace elements from the ration, but at some moments that falls short. Think of the days around calving or a grazing period on land low in trace elements. Here you will find boluses for those moments, mineral licks for daily use and bolus guns to give a bolus safely.
Three types, three moments
- Transition boluses for the fresh cow: calcium, energy, phosphorus, magnesium, bicarbonate and udder support, including from Rumivet, Direct Bolus and Hofman Animal Care (Dairy line). There is also a Fresh Cow Starter Box.
- Long-acting boluses that release trace elements over a longer period, such as Excellent All-Mineral Plus, Cattle Bullet, Uno Grow and Uno Vleesvee, and the Ferti line (Dry, Grow, Plus, Vleesvee).
- Mineral licks and lick blocks for free access in the barn or field: Liksteen Mineral Rund, Liksteen Biotin, Likblok Toplik for cattle and youngstock and the Salt Lick Parex salt lick.
The right bolus gun for the bolus
You give a bolus with a bolus gun (applicator) that matches the diameter of the bolus. There are stainless steel applicators in 17, 27 and 36 mm and plastic models in 27 and 34 mm. Check the label of your bolus for the diameter needed. An applicator that is too wide does not grip the bolus properly; one that is too narrow will not take it. The Vink head lifter helps to keep the cow's head in the right position.
What to watch out for
A bolus is a complementary feed, not a medicine for milk fever, ketosis or mastitis. If you suspect a deficiency, first have blood or grass tested, so you know what is really lacking; an excess of some trace elements, such as copper, is not good either. Always give a bolus with the head straight forward and not too high, so the cow can swallow normally.
A compact selection on the search term is in minerals and boluses. Around calving, you use these together with calving supplies and drenching equipment. The Excellent cow magnet and calf boluses can also be found via calf rearing. Back to everything for cattle.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a transition bolus and a long-acting bolus?
A transition bolus delivers, for example, calcium or energy over a short time around calving. A long-acting bolus releases trace elements gradually over a longer period.
Which bolus gun do I need?
An applicator with the same diameter as your bolus; sizes range from 17 to 36 mm. The diameter is on the bolus label.
Do beef cattle need different boluses from dairy cattle?
There are separate versions for beef cattle, such as Uno Vleesvee and Ferti Vleesvee. Match your choice to the ration and any deficiencies.