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Rumensin for Dairy Cattle

Rumensin for Dairy Cattle

For almost 47 years, producers have trusted Elanco’s Rumensin® to deliver consistent, dependable results that add more profit to their bottom line. The findings from more than 400 Elanco research studies have made it possible for producers to include Rumensin in their ever-changing feed programs and management systems.

Key Product Benefits:

  • 5:1 average return on your investment1
  • Improved feed efficiency of milk protein production throughout lactation

Lactating Dairy Cows

Rumensin means greater milk production efficiency1 —up to 3% more energy per kilogram of feed, for a return on investment of at least 5:1.1 Rumensin’s ability to help cows get more energy from every kilogram of feed provides flexibility when formulating rations. Dairy producers can customize the herd’s ration and get improved milk protein production from the same feed or the same milk from less feed. By increasing feed efficiency of milk production, Rumensin helps provide value throughout the lactation cycle:

  • During transition and early lactation
    ◦ More energy from every kilogram of feed
    ◦ No change in dry matter intake (DMI) while cows are in negative energy balance1
  • Mid-lactation and late lactation
    ◦ More milk per kilogram of feed
    ◦ Once energy balance is achieved, DMI may decrease1

Safely and effectively produce more milk protein per kilogram of feed

Rumensin is approved for use in dairy cows in more than 20 countries around the world. Extensive research associated with these approvals shows that the natural wholesomeness and quality of milk from Rumensin-fed cows are maintained throughout lactation.  No withdrawal period or milk withholding time is required when used according to the label.

Because feedstuffs and management goals are unique to each dairy, it’s important to work with your nutritionist to optimize Rumensin to get the most out of your feed. Nutrition experts can help translate the sound science behind Rumensin into real-world results for you.

Heifers

Rumensin is approved for increased rate of weight gain in growing cattle on pasture of greater than 180 kg (400 lb) body weight and as an aid in the prevention of coccidiosis caused by Eimeria bovis and Eimeria zuernii in cattle. Rumensin contributes to the growth and health of heifers through two mechanisms:

  • Killing coccidia in the small and large intestines5
  • Improving rumen fermentation5

In the rumen, Rumensin alters the microbial population, resulting in greater production of propionic acid. Production of propionic acid allows the growing animal to capture more energy from the ration and serves as the major substrate for glucose synthesis in the liver,6 increasing rate of weight gain in growing cattle. This is the same mechanism that improves feed efficiency of milk protein production and minimizes the loss of body condition in lactating and dry cows.

Microtracers®

Feed companies that supply quality feed products to the cattle industry utilize Elanco's Rumensin as an integral component of their feeding programs. To assist feed manufacturers in providing a quality feed product to their customers, Elanco has added Microtracers to Rumensin. Microtracers can provide a quick method for confirmation of inclusion or absence of Rumensin in the feed they manufacture for their client farms.

Microtracers are extremely small, stainless steel particles with a unique colour coating, which do not impact the feed, animal, or environment when Rumensin is used. Due to the inclusion of Microtracers in Rumensin, samples of premix or supplements can be tested for the presence of Rumensin in less than three minutes.

Elanco provides two Rumensin Microtracers detection kits: the mason jar and the rotary detector.

The label contains complete directions for use , including cautions and warnings. Always read, understand and follow the label and use directions.

CAUTION: 

  1. Do not exceed recommended levels as reduced average daily gains may result.
  2. Do not allow canines, horses, other equines or guinea fowl access to formulations containing monensin. Ingestion of monensin by these species has been fatal.
  3. Do not use Rumensin medicated feed for the treatment of outbreaks of coccidiosis.
  4. May be used in feeds containing the pellet-binding agents, Bentonite (2%), Attapulgite (2%), Kaolin (2.5%), Lignin Sulfonate (4%), Carboxymethylcellulose (0.1%) or Agri-Colloid.
  5. Do not use thixotropic supplement after eight weeks storage.
  6. The 24 g/tonne monensin treatment in primiparous cows may result in increased incidence of udder edema and increased number of inseminations per full term conception.
  7. The continuous use of monensin in dairy cows may be associated with increased rates of twinning and stillbirths, and heavier birth weights for heifer calves.

Warnings:

For use as aid in the prevention of coccidiosis or for increased rate of weight gain in growing cattle on pasture: Do not supplement monensin from other sources (i.e. other feedstuffs containing monensin or KexxtoneTM).

For reduction of milk fat percentage or for minimizing loss of body condition during lactation or for improving feed efficiency of milk protein production: Do not supplement Rumensin Premix above 16 ppm to dairy cows in herds administered Kexxtone.

When mixing and handling Rumensin Premix, avoid inhalation, oral exposure and direct contact with skin or eyes. Use protective clothing, impervious gloves and dust mask. Operators should wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Keep out of reach of children.

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