Now that spring has sprung we thought it a timely to remind you of the recommended trace element panels in our current price book. The suggested panels are examples of appropriate analytes for assessing what is happening in the dairy herd.
Testing for trace element status is an important part of mineral supplementation plans on farm. The panels below are recommendations depending on the time of year, but these can be mixed and matched ,or altered to suit your requirements.
If you wish to discuss the best testing combination for your area, or even for a particular farmer, our team of pathologists are happy to discuss your options.
Call us today. 0800 GRIBBLES.
Autumn Panel – Important analysis for dairy herds prior to winter.
Samples recommended: 10x serum samples (red top) and 10x liver biopsies from herd
| Analyte | Why test this? |
| Zinc x10 | Monitor for facial eczema prevention |
| GGT x10 | Identify subclinical facial eczema damage |
| Selenium x5 | Assess status prior to winter |
| Liver copper ≥10 | Assess stores prior to winter |
Premating Panel – Important analysis to assess factors that can impact the reproductive performance of the dairy herd.
Samples recommended: 10x serum samples (red top) from herd
| Analyte | Why test this? |
| Calcium x10 | Hypocalcaemia can negatively affect fertility |
| Magnesium x10 | Needs to be assessed alongside calcium |
| BOH x10 | Indicator of negative energy balance which can negatively affect fertility |
| Selenium x5 Copper x10 | Deficiency can affect conception rates |
Transition Panel – Important analysis for dairy herds to help support a successful transition period.
Samples recommended: 10x serum samples (red top) from herd
| Analyte | Why test this? |
| Calcium Magnesium Phosphate x10 | Levels key for metabolic disease prevention |
| NEFA or BOH x10 | Indicator of negative energy balance |
| Selenium x5 | Adequate levels important in periparturient immunity for reducing mastitis, metritis and associated with retained fetal membranes |
| Vitamin B12 x10 | Low levels may indicate suboptimal nutrition affecting the ability of ruminal microflora to synthesise Vit B12 |