We have put together the most frequently asked questions but if you cannot see the answer to your question here, please ask your vet or contact us and a member of our team will be able to advise you.

  • Do I need training to use a SELEKT Pump-Drencher?

    Yes, you must speak to your vet to receive training as you need to know how to check that the hose is in the oesophagus.

  • Does it matter how much water I use to make up the formulae?

    Yes. Each of the powders comes in a sachet intended to be made up with 20 litres of water. Using less water adds a concentrated solution to the rumen liquor. This may reduce the cow’s appetite, and so worsten her condition, or put her at risk of other problems. Using a little more water is fine. Using much more for a single sachet should be avoided, because it may dilute the electrolytes, such as calcium, in the cow’s blood.

  • Is 20 litres always the right volume of water to use?

    No. This is the right volume for a freshly-calved cow or a mildly dehydrated one.  A badly dehydrated cow needs 40 litres, or sometimes more. Ask your vet for advice on how to judge how much water to use.

  • If I give more than 20 litres of water, should I give more than one sachet of powder?

    Yes. In 40 litres, use two sachets. In 60 litres, use three. But give only one sachet of SELEKT Fresh Cow 500 or SELEKT Off Feed at a time. Make up the next 20 or 40 litres of water with one or two sachets of SELEKT Restore.

  • Does the water need to be warm?

    Yes. If it is cold, it will chill the cow and cause her to waste precious energy keeping her body temperature up.

  • What about the liquid formulae?

    SELEKT Glycerol Plus should always be given in at least one litre of water. For the best results, give it in at least ten litres. It may be added to a solution of a powder formula without extra water.  SELEKT Charbon Fluide may be given without water, although cows that need it will often be dehydrated, and will benefit from having least 20 litres of solution of SELEKT Restore with SELEKT Charbon Fluide added to it.

  • Does it really matter which formula I use?

    That depends on the condition of the cow. One rule always to follow is never to use a formula containing potassium – SELEKT Off Feed or SELEKT Restore – for a freshly calved cow.  The potassium will increase her risk of milk fever. Use only SELEKT Fresh Cow 500 for a freshly calved cow.