Use of soluble glass boluses containing Cu, Co and Se in the prevention of trace-element deficiencies in goats

Abstract

SummaryTwo experiments were carried out to examine the value of copper, cobalt and selenium contained in soluble glass boluses as a means of providing supplementary trace elements to goats.In the first experiment 36 purebred Toggenburg goats were used and divided into two groups. One group was treated with soluble glass boluses while the other was left as control.In the second experiment 46 Saanen half-bred goats were used, divided into three groups. The first group was treated with soluble glass boluses, the second was treated with selenium injectable compound and the third was left as control.Blood samples were collected on four occasions, during an experimental period of almost 12 months and plasma copper, serum vitamin B12 and blood selenium concentrations were determined. All those measurements showed significant increases for about a year, and were due to treatment. The advantages of glass boluses were not shared by the selenium injectable compound.