Over the past 2-3 years, our vets have been seeing many sheep selenium test results coming back as either low (less than 4) or marginal (between 4-10).
Low levels can result from a combination of less fertiliser and prill application, and in some seasons fast grass growth means less mineral uptake.
These tables show a summary of recent results:
Most of these tests are from mixed-age ewes during the pre-tup or pre-lamb periods. We work with the farmer to decide when to test, with the aim of getting the best information.
Low levels can be corrected with a number of different treatments. However, long-acting selenium injection has given a number of these farmers confidence that selenium will be adequate in their sheep for at least a year.
If you have not tested your ewes in the last 12 months, then any time now is a good time to check their levels.
Give us a call to book in – we can even do them on your trailer if you want to bring some sheep to the clinic.
