Protection of the cow’s liver

The liver in a cow’s body is a vital organ, as it performs both digestive functions and detoxification of harmful substances. It is directly involved in hormonal balance, energy metabolism, and blood circulation. In other words, the liver plays a central role in metabolism and is the first to respond to the impact of negative external and internal factors. Therefore, it is important to pay close attention to the liver’s health and ensure its high productivity.

The feed consumed by the cow enters the gastrointestinal tract and is broken down into smaller compounds, which then enter the bloodstream and are delivered to the liver. In the liver, these compounds are reassembled; however, if the liver is unable to fulfill its “duties,” this reassembly process does not occur. Even with a well-balanced and nutritious diet, the feed may be only partially digested and pass through the body. The greater the liver dysfunction, the more significant the undigested transit.

During the transition period, the cow’s liver is especially vulnerable due to stress from calving, the onset of lactation, and dietary changes. As a result, the animal’s immunity deteriorates, making the liver more susceptible to harmful factors.

Main causes of liver damage in transition cows:

• Liver dystrophy – metabolic disorders and fat accumulation in liver cells.
• Rumen acidosis – excessive intake of easily digestible carbohydrates, leading to pH changes in the rumen and impaired digestion.
• Infectious diseases – reduced immunity during the transition period makes cows more susceptible to infections such as clostridiosis, infectious bovine rhinotracheitis, pasteurellosis, viral diarrhea, etc.
• Toxin poisoning – low-quality feed containing harmful substances leads to poisoning and liver damage.
• Lack of vitamins and microelements – disrupts liver functions.

One of the most common metabolic disorders in dairy cattle is fatty liver disease, which causes significant economic losses for the dairy industry. This disease can affect the heart, kidneys, limbs, endocrine system, and result in secondary osteodystrophy, thereby shortening the productive life of valuable livestock. Causes of hepatic lipidosis include improper feeding, energy deficiency in the diet, excessive protein intake, lack of methionine, choline, and natural antioxidants, as well as poor-quality feed.

Considering the vulnerability of the liver during specific periods in a cow’s life, Vitagro Nutrition specialists have developed feed products that enhance liver function, support hepatocyte regeneration, prevent fat mobilization into hepatocytes, and protect the liver from damage and toxic influences.

To protect and support liver health, Vitagro Nutrition offers Vitamix Cow HProtect. This is a premium product for cows, using advanced solutions to enhance liver function and protection, especially during the transition period (21 days before and 21 days after calving). The product contains a mycotoxin adsorbent, choline, methionine, active yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, as well as a balanced amount of essential macroelements and special organic forms of microelements Se, Mn, Zn, Cu, Fe.

The recommended dosage of Vitamix Cow HProtect for dry and lactating cows is 80–150 g per head per day, depending on the diet and physiological condition of the animals.