Indications
Cobalt carbonate is a trace mineral used in veterinary feed supplements, mostly for ruminants such as cattle, buffaloes, sheep and goats. It is used to prevent and correct cobalt deficiency, which can occur when animals graze on cobalt-poor soils and leads to poor appetite, weight loss, anaemia, rough coat and reduced milk yield. It is usually one ingredient in a mineral premix, powder or suspension. This product is for animal use only, not for human use.
How It Works
Ruminants cannot use cobalt directly. Microbes living in the rumen (the first stomach) use cobalt to make vitamin B12. The animal then absorbs this vitamin B12, which it needs for energy production from propionate, healthy red blood cells and normal growth. A steady small supply of cobalt keeps vitamin B12 production going.
Dosage and Administration
Give by mouth exactly as directed on the product label or by a veterinarian, usually mixed in feed, water or as part of a drench. Only very small amounts are needed, and the right amount depends on the species, body weight and the cobalt already in the diet. Do not add extra cobalt products without veterinary advice.
Interactions
Several mineral premixes given together can lead to excessive cobalt intake. Discuss all mineral and vitamin products with a veterinarian. Animals already receiving vitamin B12 injections may not need additional cobalt.
Contraindications
- Animals already receiving enough cobalt from their diet or other supplements.
- Known sensitivity to any ingredient of the product.
- Not for human use.
Side Effects
At recommended amounts, side effects are not expected. Excess cobalt over time can cause loss of appetite, weight loss, anaemia and poor coat condition, similar to deficiency.
Get urgent veterinary help if animals stop eating, become weak, show breathing difficulty or a sudden drop in milk yield, or if a large quantity of the product has been eaten by mistake.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Correct cobalt intake is important for pregnant and lactating animals and their young; use as directed on the label. People should not take this product; pregnant or breastfeeding people should avoid inhaling the powder and wash their hands after handling.
Precautions and Warnings
- For veterinary use only.
- Cobalt compounds can irritate the skin and lungs and may cause skin allergy; wear gloves and avoid breathing in dust.
- Mix evenly into feed so no animal gets too much.
- Follow any withdrawal period on the combined product’s label for milk and meat.
Overdose
Large overdoses in animals can be toxic and affect the heart, blood and appetite; contact a veterinarian. If a person swallows the product, rinse the mouth and seek medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Veterinary trace mineral supplement.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the container tightly closed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.