The critical difference between Cosecure and other nutritional supplements is that Cosecure supplies rumen-available elements.

The copper in our unique boluses is in the form of ionic copper, which is active in the same pH range as the rumen. This means that the minerals are highly available to the animals in the rumen.

Some boluses supply copper in the form of Copper Oxide. Copper Oxide is active at much lower pH levels, and requires exposure to abomasal acidity before release of the copper.

The cow will ingest molybdenum and sulphur through its diet. Molybdenum and sulphur bind together to form something called Thiomolybdate. Thiomolybdate is very ‘copper-hungry’. It binds with copper in the rumen and when there is no copper left in the rumen, it moves into the bloodstream and binds to the copper-co-dependent enzymes there.

These enzymes are vital for fertility and productivity. When the molybdenum and sulphur combination (thiomolybdate) binds with these copper enzymes in the blood, they are rendered inactive, so fertility and productivity are impaired. Some farmers will know this as ‘copper lock’ or ‘secondary copper deficiency’. We know it as TMT (or thiomolybdate toxicity).

To stop ‘copper lock’ or ‘TMT’ occurring, we need to stop the molybdenum and sulphur combination (thiomolybdate), from moving out of the rumen and into the bloodstream. The only way to do this is to supply enough copper in the rumen to satisfy the thiomolybdate’s ‘copper hunger’.

Because Cosecure’s copper is rumen-available, it is able to do this. It supplies copper in the rumen continuously for up to 6 months, meaning the thiomolybdate doesn’t pass into the blood in search of more copper; it doesn’t bind with the blood’s copper-dependent enzymes and it therefore doesn’t impair fertility and productivity.

Unlike cobalt-oxide boluses, the Cosecure boluses supply ionic cobalt which is rumen-available.

Bacteria in the rumen require cobalt in order to synthesize Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is vital for energy utilisation and productivity. The body has no capacity to store cobalt, so Cosecure’s ability to continually supply rumen-available cobalt for up to 6 months is ideal for improving cobalt supply and promoting health in cattle.

Lots of factors! Fertility, immunity, thrive and productivity are extremely complex issues with many causes and it is important to always consult a vet and understand your herd’s nutritional status before using any boluses, medicines or other nutritional products. For more information on the bolus range, contact your vet.

The two boluses have different names due to the trace elements that they contain. Cosecure contains cobalt, selenium and copper. Coseicure is the same but with the addition of iodine. The ionic symbols for each trace element are included in the name of the boluses. For example, Co = cobalt, Se = Selenium, I = Iodine, Cu = copper, when put together we have CoSeICu. Adding ‘re’ = Coseicure. Both boluses utilise the exact same technology and manufacturing process.

Often the signs of trace element deficiency in cattle and sheep can be subclinical. Such as reduced growth, sub optimal fertility and lower milk yields. In other cases, we see clinical symptoms such as stillborn calves or lambs, white muscle disease, pica and goitre. The symptoms can vary depending on which trace element is the most severely lacking. The best approach is to speak to your vet, often forage samples in conjunction with bloods from animals is a good practical approach. Alternatively, methods such as liver biopsy can be utilised. The results can indicate potential underlying trace element deficiencies.   

Cosecure and Coseicure boluses can generally be purchased from your vet, local animal health store or via online animal health retailers. Contact us if you’d like to know where you can purchase Cosecure boluses local to you.

Correct application is crucial to avoid harming the animal and avoiding regurgitation of the bolus. Therefore, it is crucial that you use a Cosecure bolus gun that is correct for the type of bolus you are using whether it is a sheep, lamb calf, or cow bolus.