Bolus Administration
Ensure that the boluses are stored in a warm place prior to administration
Cosecure boluses are made from a special kind of soluble glass and as a result share some of the properties of common glass. The most important factor to note here is that glass is therefore susceptible to sudden changes in temperature. The rumen of a cow or sheep is at around 40°C and it is important that the bolus that enters this environment is not significantly colder than this.
We have found, in studies, that if the boluses are at 15 to 20°C at the time of administration there is no problem. Very cold boluses may fracture and disolve abnormally which may lead to regurgitation.
How to avoid possible problems
Store the boluses in the warmest room of your house, which should be at 20 degrees centigrade for at least twelve hours before administration, this will ensure that the boluses are gently brought up to the right temperature. Do not attempt to warm up the boluses quickly by applying direct heat or by immersing them in hot water as this could simply result in micro fractures prior to bolusing.
Oral administration
The boluses are given orally by use of a Cosecure balling gun which delivers the bolus directly to the top of the gullet. Care should be taken to avoid using undue force or pushing the bolus too far down the back of the throat as this could result in serious injury. The balling gun should be used to place the bolus on the very back of the tongue, the animal will then swallow the bolus itself. Ensure that the animal has swallowed the bolus by holding the mouth closed and observing it for a short time.
Balling guns for Cosecure are available from the same place that you buy your boluses. Avoid rough handling immediately after bolusing to minimise the risk of regurgitation. Once the bolus settles into the reticulorumen it will start to slowly dissolve releasing vital minerals over a number of months. (see specific information sheets for details of dissolution)
