Mineral deficiency affects 58% of national cattle herd during calving season

Agricultural experts highlight that mineral status in cattle drops significantly during the critical pre-breeding period, with copper and zinc deficiencies affecting fertility rates. Currently only 58% of the national herd achieves compact calving in the first six weeks, against a target of 80%, which represents a potential €100 per head profit improvement if achieved. The issue is particularly acute in areas with high molybdenum content in soil, such as Cavan and the Shannon region, which binds copper and limits absorption.