Vitamin E requirements during the dry period
Vitamin E plays a crucial role in the health and performance of dairy cattle. As an essential fat-soluble vitamin that the body cannot produce, its importance is especially significant during the dry and transition periods of dairy cows.
The role of vitamin E
Vitamin E, particularly in the form of α-tocopherol, is vital due to its antioxidant properties and positive impact on the immune system. It helps combat oxidative stress, supporting fertility and the overall health of cows.
Recommended dosages
During the dry period, the estimated vitamin E requirements are:
- Far-Off period: 25 IU/kg DM
- Close-Up period: 90 IU/kg DM
With an intake of 12 kg DM in the Close-Up period, this equates to approximately 1000 IU/cow/day.
Scientific studies
Baldi et al. (2000) study
A 2000 study by Baldi et al. examined the effects of different vitamin E doses on 28 Holstein Friesian cows during the transition period. The cows were given 1000 IU or 2000 IU of rumen-protected natural vitamin E daily. Results indicated that higher doses increased α-tocopherol levels in both plasma and milk without significantly affecting milk production. However, positive effects were noted on fertility and immunity:
- 40% fewer inseminations required (1.32 vs. 2.17)
- 25% reduction in days to conception (83.8 vs. 111.3)
- Lower somatic cell count (from 125,900 cells/ml to 39,800 cells/ml)
Yenilmez et al. (2022) study
A recent Turkish study by Yenilmez et al. (2022) focused on 40 multiparous Holstein Friesian cows. Cows received either a saline solution (control) or 3000 IU of vitamin E via intramuscular injection. The results showed positive effects on antioxidant levels, particularly glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), which reduced susceptibility to oxidative stress and improved fertility outcomes.
Other findings
Not all studies yield consistently positive results. For instance, Bouwstra et al. (2010) reported an increase in somatic cell counts post-calving in cows receiving 3000 IU of vitamin E during the dry period.
Antioxidant combinations
In addition to vitamin E, other antioxidants like polyphenols from plant extracts are also beneficial. Selko AO-mix R is an antioxidant blend specifically formulated for cattle. Combining vitamin E with Selko AO-mix can provide a synergistic antioxidant effect, promoting cow health and offering potential cost savings.
Trouw Nutrition recommendations
Based on these findings, Trouw Nutrition has updated its standards for vitamin E and beta-carotene supplementation. Refer to the table below for the revised recommendations.
Contact us
Interested in optimizing the health and performance of your dairy cows with the right vitamin E dosage? Contact Trouw Nutrition’s experts for more information and personalized advice.