Norbrook launch long-acting bolus to cut risk of milk fever

A new long-acting cattle bolus to reduce the risk of milk fever has been launched by Norbrook Laboratories Ltd.

Calcitrace D3 is the first and only long-acting bolus to offer slow- and fast-releasing calcium, to provide sustained calcium levels for 48 to 72 hours. In addition, Calcitrace D3 provides magnesium, phosphate and vitamin D3.

A smooth gelatin-coated bolus with a rounded tip for easier administration, it is smaller than other boluses, making trauma during administration less likely.

“Milk fever is a common metabolic disorder in dairy cattle which generally affects older, high-producing cows, and is caused by a rapid decrease in calcium concentrations in the blood just before calving. It is estimated that 3% to 10% of cows are affected by milk fever, with a cost of more than €200 per incident, so it is crucial farmers and vets reduce the risk,” says Dr Barry McInerney of Norbrook. He said the new product should be administered just before calving, to provide higher calcium blood levels during the critical 12- to 48-hour post-calving period.