Why trace elements matter

Maintaining fertility and breeding performance in suckler cows depends on a wide range of management factors, and one of the most important is trace element status.

Across the UK, levels of essential trace elements can vary significantly depending on location, soil type, and overall soil health. If deficiencies are not identified and corrected, they can have a direct impact on reproduction, calf viability, and long-term herd performance.

What are trace elements?

Trace elements are essential minerals required by animals in very small quantities. Even though they are only needed in minute amounts, they are crucial for normal growth, health, and physiological function.

Nutritionally essential trace elements include iron, copper, cobalt, zinc, selenium, chromium, iodine, and molybdenum. Each plays a specific role in maintaining health and reproductive efficiency in cattle.

Common trace element deficiencies and their impact

Copper

Copper deficiency is a common issue and can reduce fertility in adult cows. A lack of copper may increase the time from calving to normal bulling behaviour, making it more difficult for cows to get back in calf.

Selenium

Selenium helps protect cells from damage and supports muscle development. Inadequate selenium levels can lead to more stillbirths and weaker calves. In cows, deficiency may contribute to post-calving complications, while in bulls it can reduce sperm production and fertility.

Iodine

Iodine is especially important during pregnancy. Deficiency can increase the risk of abortion, weak calves, and stillbirths. In lactating cows, low iodine levels may also slow calf growth rates.

Cobalt

Cobalt is required for vitamin B12 synthesis, which is essential for energy metabolism. Deficiency can reduce breeding performance, lengthen recovery after calving, and contribute to irregular bulling intervals.

How to identify and correct deficiencies

Keeping trace element levels balanced is important for both fertility and overall herd health. Deficiencies can easily be overlooked, particularly when day-to-day farm pressures are high, but regular monitoring can help prevent longer-term problems.

• Carry out regular soil testing
• Use forage analysis to assess mineral supply
• Consider mineral supplementation where appropriate
• Use boluses, mineral drenches, licks, or powders based on need
• Work with your vet to decide the best approach for your herd

A targeted supplementation plan based on actual need is more effective than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach.

Why monitoring matters

Trace element deficiencies can affect breeding performance long before obvious clinical signs appear. Monitoring mineral status, fertility outcomes, and herd performance trends can help you spot problems earlier and respond more effectively.

A proactive approach can lead to improved conception rates, fewer calving issues, stronger calves, and better overall herd resilience.

How Herdwatch can help

Keeping accurate records makes it easier to monitor supplementation and identify animals that may need closer attention. Herdwatch helps you organise this information in one place so you can make more informed herd management decisions.

Medicine records made easy

Keep on top of medicine purchases, treatments, and inventory at the press of a button. You can log treatments such as boluses and mineral drenches, and see which animals require repeat treatments over time.

Pasture management in your palm

Map your farm in the app, colour coordinate fields, and assign field notes to record soil test results. This helps support better supplementation decisions based on field-level information.

Support fertility with better mineral management

Trace elements may only be required in small amounts, but their impact on fertility and herd performance can be significant. By monitoring mineral status and keeping accurate treatment and pasture records, farmers can reduce the risk of deficiencies and support better breeding outcomes.