Rumensin CRC and Dairy Health

Nutrition Update
Volume 9 No.1, May 1998

Rumensin Controlled Release Capsule (CRC) is now registered as an aid in the prevention of subclinical ketosis in lactating dairy cattle.

The Rumensin CRC is administered to the cow using a Rumensin CRC Administration Tool. The core of the capsule contains monensin sodium. An opening at one end of the capsule exposes a precisely controlled area of the core surface to the rumen. Rumensin is released as the rumen environment causes the slow breakdown of the exposed core. The capsule remains in the rumen until after the core contents have paid out. With time, the empty capsule may be regurgitated.

Rumensin CRC is to be administered 3 weeks prior to the expected calving date and remains effective for 95 days. Rumensin increases the concentration of propionic acid in the rumen. Propionic acid is the precursor of glucose - the energy source for dairy cows. Increased glucose reduces the level of fatty acid mobilization and decreases ketone levels. Rumensin CRC has been shown to reduce the risk of clinical ketosis by 50% and reduce the length of time that cows were subclinically ketotic. The incidence of abomasal displacement has also been shown to be significantly reduced.

Rumensin CRC is available through veterinarians.