Cobalt Deficiency Flashcards

Question	Answer		Article
What is cobalt required for by the ruminant?	Production of vitamin B12 by the rumenal microflora.		Link to Article
What is vitamin B12 required for?	Metabolism of propionate in energy production Metabolism of amino acids for wool growth		Link to Article
What other species can be affected by cobalt deficiency?	Goats Cattle Deer		Link to Article
What age of sheep is most susceptible and why?	Growing lambs >6 weeks old Highest requirement for vitamin b12 and energy when growing Younger lambs use glucose for energy so have a low requirement		Link to Article
What are the common clinical signs?	Stunted growth Poor condition Anaemia Ketosis Poor fleece Weakness Conjunctivitis		Link to Article
What is white liver disease and how does it present?	It is fatty degeneration of the liver caused by cobalt deficiency. This causes hepatic failure which can present as: Hepatic encephalopathy Photosensitisation		Link to Article
What can be tested in blood to give an indication of cobalt status?	Cobalt Vitamin B12 MMA FIGLU		Link to Article
How can cobalt be supplemented?	B12 injection Cobalt top dressing Cobalt spraying of crops/forage Intra-rumenal boluses		Link to Article