Mineral deficiency in dairy cows

Mineral deficiency in dairy cows has been observed for many years in the Ce ntral Pomerania area, The aim of the study was to evaluate the macro- and m icroelement content in fodder and in cows serum during the drying- off peri od, after the 1st and 2nd months of lactation. The analysis of the mineral economy showed calcium, phosphorus, magnesium a nd copper deficiency independent of their physiological state, A lower leve l of these elements in serum was confirmed by their low content in fodder. Mineral deficiency in fodder needs to be supplemented by using the appropri ate mineral supplements, whose formula should be adjusted to the trophic sc heme: soil-plant-animal.