A ZINC-CONTAINING INTRARUMINAL DEVICE FOR FACIAL ECZEMA CONTROL IN LAMBS

A zinc-containing intraruminal device has been developed for protectin g lambs against facial eczema. The rate of release of zinc from the de vice has been optimised, and its safety in use established. Under both experimental and farm conditions, the device gave excellent protectio n against the liver injury associated with facial eczema. The device r elies upon erosion for release of zinc, and disappears completely when its charge of zinc has been released, leaving no metal or plastic res idue in the rumen. This device has the potential to greatly ameliorate the problem of facial eczema in New Zealand.