Calves transported long distances can exhibit muscle fatigue and oxidative stress, an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants that can ultimately cause cell and tissue damage, shares Stephanie Hansen, PhD. Her Iowa State University research team is investigating the role of trace minerals and vitamins in cattle health and welfare during long-haul transit.
Vitamin C and zinc have been shown to help the calf recover more quickly after being hauled. That means better feed intake and average daily gain, as well as better immune response, particularly improved bovine respiratory disease treatment outcomes.
Source: FEED-LOT, August 12, 2024. Link. Hansen shared both vitamin C and zinc can be given pre- or post-transit at relatively little cost, around one dollar per head each.
Transit stress is unavoidable, but we can find ways to control it and make the situation better for the animal and the producer.”