For sheep there are separate, smaller boluses, such as the Excellent Sheep Calcium Bolus Gold, with their own applicator; for cows you will find minerals as a long-acting bolus or as a mineral lick. This selection brings together all products with bolus or minerals in the name, so you quickly see what there is per species.
For cows: bolus or mineral lick
A mineral lick, such as Liksteen Mineral Rund or the Toplik lick block, hangs or lies in the barn or field and the cow helps herself. As a result, you do not know exactly how much each animal takes in. A bolus is given per animal, so you know for sure that every cow gets her share. There are boluses that release trace elements slowly, such as All-Mineral Plus and Cattle Bullet, and boluses for the days around calving, such as the Dairy Calcium Bolus with magnesium and vitamin D3.
For sheep and calves
Sheep and calves have a smaller oesophagus than an adult cow. So only use boluses intended for them and a suitable applicator, such as the plastic inserter for Uno Grow Calf and Sheep Bullet or the pill giver for lambs. For calves there is also Excellent Calfperien in small 7 gram boluses.
Before you choose
Minerals and boluses are complementary feeds. Sheep are more sensitive to copper than cattle, so never give a sheep a bolus intended for cattle. If you suspect deficiencies, have blood or feed tested and consult your vet or feed adviser.
The full range, including applicators by diameter, is in boluses and minerals for cattle. If you keep sheep, also see everything for your sheep; cattle keepers will find the rest in the cattle section.
Frequently asked questions
Can I give a cattle bolus to a sheep?
No. A cattle bolus is too large and may contain too much copper for a sheep. Only use boluses intended for sheep.
Is a mineral lick enough for my cows?
With a varied ration, often yes, as a supplement. If a deficiency has been demonstrated, a bolus gives more certainty that every animal gets enough.
How do I give a bolus?
With an applicator that matches the diameter of the bolus. Hold the head straight forward and slide the applicator calmly to behind the tongue.