When it comes to getting R2s and cows prepared for reproduction, the herd needs a range of essential trace elements to support heat strength. Iodine is one of these critical elements required for hormone production, but it is generally offered to the herd only weeks before mating. If you are a month away from the planned start of mating, your calved cows or young heifers are likely to respond to an iodine boost. A submission rate target of 90% for the first three weeks sets up animals to achieve a profitable 6-week in-calf rate. Driving strong, long heats is the first step towards better repro outcomes.
Spring 2025 repro results highlight that there is still room to tighten our calving patterns to secure more days-in-milk. Provide what the cow needs before mating, e.g., energy, minerals, and trace elements and address any deficiencies, like iodine, before it becomes more serious.
Horizon Iodine Injection has just been released to the market and is a viable solution for animals off-farm (young stock) or for iodine pre-mating. An injection @ 1 mL/100 kg liveweight provides sufficient iodine for the mating period and into mid-lactation while also supporting embryo development. So simple yet so effective!
Animals receiving a Horizon Iodine Injection at this time of the season (spring) benefit from the longevity of the active ingredient.
- Helps to avoid subclinical iodine deficiency when animals are fed summer crops like turnips or brassicas.
- Supports energy metabolism and milk production
- Vital for healthy thyroid function.
- Responsible for developing the central nervous system, heart, lungs, skin and hair follicles
- Improves the vigour of newborn calves and survival rates
Best practice
- Dose a month before the planned start of mating
- Inject Horizon Iodine into the muscle of the neck
- Follow label instructions on packaging for application
- Review total iodine sources on offer before injecting
- Dose young calves from weaning to support growth and development
- For replacement heifers, inject them at least 30 days before the bull goes out
- Nil withholding period for milk and meat
Review your herd’s daily iodine intake before using Horizon Iodine Injection. Check all iodine sources in your mineral or trace element programme, whether it’s through in-shed feeding, water medication, or other supplements.
If you require any further information, talk to your Farm Source TSR or store staff or visit www.horizonagresources.co.nz
