Selenium is a critical trace element in cattle nutrition, offering several significant health benefits that are vital for maintaining overall well-being and productivity. One of its primary roles is as a component of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. This antioxidant property helps to boost the immune system, reducing the incidence and severity of diseases, and enhancing the animal's ability to recover from infections and illnesses. Selenium is also essential for thyroid hormone metabolism, which regulates growth, development, and metabolic processes in cattle.
Moreover, selenium plays a crucial role in reproductive health. Adequate selenium levels are associated with improved fertility rates, reduced incidences of retained placentas, and enhanced postpartum recovery. In pregnant cows, selenium ensures proper fetal development and can decrease the risk of white muscle disease in newborn calves, a condition that leads to muscle weakness and can be fatal. By supporting immune function, reproductive health, and overall metabolic processes, selenium supplementation in cattle feed is a vital practice for farmers aiming to optimize herd health and productivity, ultimately leading to better growth rates, milk production, and overall farm profitability.
A study conducted by Hall et al. (2013) investigated the effects of selenium supplementation on the health and immunity of weaned beef calves. The researchers provided selenium-fertilized alfalfa hay to a group of calves and compared their health outcomes with those of a control group. The study found that selenium supplementation significantly improved the calves' immune responses, as evidenced by higher levels of immunoglobulin G and increased activity of glutathione peroxidase, an important antioxidant enzyme. Moreover, calves receiving the selenium-enriched diet showed better weight gain and overall health, suggesting that selenium plays a crucial role in enhancing both immune function and growth performance in cattle. These findings highlight the importance of adequate selenium nutrition in promoting the well-being and productivity of livestock.
We carry a few options for Selenium one being the Herd Health Lick Blocks from Olssons. These are quality, Australian Manufactured blocks loaded with the right nutrition for your livestock. Visit us in-store or give us a call (07) 4665 3366.
· Hall, J. A., Bobe, G., Hunter, J. K., Vorachek, W. R., Stewart, W. C., Vanegas, J. A., & Pirelli, G. J. (2013). Effects of feeding selenium-fertilized alfalfa hay on immunity and health of weaned beef calves. Biological Trace Element Research, 156(1-3), 96-110.
· Weiss, W. P. (2003). Selenium nutrition of dairy cows: comparing responses to organic and inorganic selenium forms. Journal of Dairy Science, 86(2), 569-573.
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