Our two jerseys have now twice fallen badly ill because of calcium deficiency. They produce at least 20 liters per day when they're in good form. But the only source of veterinary materials is the govt department, and they always play hard to get with the calcium supplements, saying they're out of stock, will get some next week, etc. They always recommend that we just get them to come and give an injection regularly instead.
Do salt licks or mineral licks usually contain calcium and phosphorus? Is is true those are the main minerals that we
should be concerned about? Our cows get lots of kitchen scraps including crushed eggshells, alfalfa
hay, some wheat bran from a nearby mill, and limited fresh forage.
People here often remark they look healthy. But then they get fits from calcium deficiency! I don't know much about cows, haven't been involved with them so much.
No seashells in this area. Some lime pits. Is it possible to dissolve lime in acid to neutralize it? Or not digestible, or not worth it?
We can order salt licks or supplements from other parts of India. For example, a zoo-vet friend of a friend recommended this:
HimCal
Calcium and phosphorus
feed supplement
HimCal contains calcium and phosphorus derived from oyster shell. The ratio of Ca:P is 2:1. It ensures the formation of strong bones in growing animals.
Stimulates
milk production: HimCal is fortified with galactopoetic herbs that stimulate the secretory functions of mammary alveoli and the promote growth of lobuloalveolar tissue, which improves milk production.
Key ingredients:
Calcium (Mouktika Sukti) strengthens bones in dogs and puppies.
Jivanti (Leptadenia reticulata) improves milk production, and maintains appetite and digestion in animals.
What do you suggest?