View source for Cow-magnets-for-hardware-disease

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 <div class="title"><h3>10.13 -Cow Magnets for Hardware Disease</h3><br><h3 class="ch-owner">Emily van de Kraats,University of Guelph, Canada</h3></div>
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<p>Suggested citation for this chapter.</p>
<p>van de Kraats,E. (2022) Cow Magnets for Hardware Disease, The Encyclopedia for Small Scale Farmers. Editor, M.N. Raizada, University of Guelph, Canada. http://www.farmpedia.org</p>
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       <h1 class="title-bg">Introduction</h1>
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          <p>Smallholder farmers face the issue of cows ingesting metal objects, leading to the cattle getting sick. When cattle ingest these metal objects, they get an illness called hardware disease, medically termed traumatic reticuloperitonitis (Orpin & Harwood, 2008). The cow magnet is a preventive measure for preventing hardware disease in cattle (Braun, 2022).  </p>
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       <h1 class="title-bg">Causes and Impacts of Hardware Disease</h1>
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<P>Hardware disease is a condition in cattle resulting from the accidental ingestion of metal objects, such as nails or wire (Braun, 2022). Ingestion of these metal objects can occur by accidental grazing, feeding, or being in environments where such materials are present (Braun, 2022). After the ingestion of these metal objects, these objects will end up in a part of the stomach called the reticulum (Moseley, 1993). Over time these foreign objects in the body will irritate the stomach, which leads to inflammation, and these objects could potentially cause perforations of the stomach lining, causing a threat to the overall health of the affected cattle (Moseley, 1993).</P> 
<P>Hardware disease in cattle is displayed through various symptoms, which may present individually or together (Schipper, 1958). A common initial symptom is a decline in milk production. Cattle with hardware disease frequently have decreased appetites and changes in fecal patterns, which are indications of digestive problems (Schipper, 1958). Apart from diminished milk production, hardware disease can cause noticeable changes in the behaviour and physical well-being of cattle (Moseley, 1993). Affected animals may exhibit decreased mobility, changes in body temperature, and the development of swellings under the jaw, brisket, and hock joints (Schipper, 1958). These clinical signs, collectively or individually, can lead to economic losses for farmers, including potential veterinary costs for diagnosis and treatment, as well as reduced market value of affected cattle (Moseley, 1993). Hardware disease can be fatal if untreated, but the severity depends on metal injury and symptoms (Moseley, 1993). When calculating the economic impact of hardware illness, one must take into account potential financial losses from mortality, veterinarian charges, and costs related to decreased milk supply (Moseley, 1993). Furthermore, preventive procedures like utilizing magnets to catch swallowed metal before it harms the cattle could be used to help reduce cases of hardware disease (Braun, 2022).</P> 
<P>Cattle that are susceptible to hardware disease should be protected from it with preventive measures in place. Baling wire and chicken wire can be consumed and cause harm; one tactic is to keep them out of areas where cattle can access feed (Moseley, 1993). Another strategy would be to pass feed over magnets helping to remove metallic objects and reduce the chance that cattle will ingest them (Braun, 2022). Additionally, removing any outdated buildings and fences with potential metal components could aid in eliminating potential sources of materials that the cattle might consume (Moseley, 1993). According to research, giving cattle magnets orally as a preventive measure will considerably lower the likelihood of hardware disease (Braun, 2022). </P>
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       <h1 class="title-bg">The Mechanism and Capabilities of Cow Magnets </h1>
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<p>Cow magnets function by being inserted orally into the cattle to attract and collect metal objects within the reticulum (see Figure 1) (Schipper, 1958). Therefore, the magnet attracts any metallic items that the cattle eat, keeping them from piercing its stomach lining or causing other internal injuries (Moseley, 1993). By naturally drawing and holding metal items in the digestive tract, the magnet uses a passive, non-invasive approach to avoid hardware diseases and minimizes the possible harmful consequences of metal consumption (Stanford Magnets, 2021).</P>

<P>Cow magnets are essential tools in the cattle industry for removing and gathering metal objects from cows' stomachs, providing a solution to hardware disease. Alnico cow magnets are perfect for harsh environmental settings because of their strong magnetic fields and corrosion resistance (Stanford Magnets, 2024a). Alnico magnets are made up of cobalt, nickel, and aluminum; these magnets are a good choice for challenging environmental conditions (Alnico Magnets Supplier Manufacturer, n.d.). On the other hand, the strength and magnetic properties of cow magnets composed of rare earth elements, like neodymium (NdFeB), are effective in attracting smaller metal fragments and perfect for situations requiring a stronger magnetic force (Stanford Magnets, 2024a). Alnico magnets might be suitable for herds that are individually controllable.  In environments with harsher conditions or when a higher magnetic force is required, rare earth magnets might be a better option (Stanford Magnets, 2024a). When selecting the ideal cow magnet for cattle, veterinarians are the best persons to consult because they can offer customized advice based on the particular needs and traits of the cattle.</p>
<p>[[File:Lan 4.jpg]]</p>
<p>Figure 1. Alnico cow magnet, Taken from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hardware_disease (CCBY) </p>
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       <h1 class="title-bg">Cow Magnet Installation and Management</h1>
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<p>Installing a cow magnet is an important procedure that needs to be managed carefully, particularly if the farmer is not experienced with it. Before installation, cows should be safely contained to prevent unnecessary movement and minimize harm to the farmer and cow. A cattle squeeze, which is a device designated to safely restrain cattle, is typically recommended for easier handling before inserting a magnet (Braun et al., 2003), but it is important to note that not everyone may have access to these devices. There may be difficulties when inserting the magnet, and therefore having another person present can make things go more smoothly. The cow's head is gently held to open its mouth, and a magnet applicator called a bolus gun, is inserted into its esophagus and neck, then released by pressure (Braun et al., 2003). The safety and well-being of the farmer and the cattle are given priority, and this step-by-step procedure guarantees a safe and efficient installation of the cow magnet.</p>

<p>In cattle, after insertion, magnets are typically located in the reticulum, a compartment of the stomach. According to Moseley (1993), the reticulum is the primary site where the magnet becomes lodged. The stomach's location was chosen due to its proximity to metallic objects ingested by cattle during grazing, as the reticulum accumulates foreign objects, particularly magnet-attracted ones. Because the magnet is positioned to trap and hold ingested metal objects, it reduces the possibility of harm or damage to the digestive system and aids in the prevention of hardware illness (Moseley, 1993).<p>

<p>Traditionally, cow magnets are often installed preventatively early in a cow's life, ideally during the first year. The rationale behind the early installation is to capture and retain metallic objects that the cow may ingest during grazing, thus reducing the risk of hardware disease later in life (Braun, 2022). During branding time, ranchers and dairy farmers often administer cow magnets to calves as a preventive measure against hardware disease (Braun, 2022). While veterinarians are typically qualified for this procedure, experienced farmers may also possess the necessary skills, since vet care is very rare in many developing nations.  </p>
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       <h1 class="title-bg">Critical Analysis</h1>
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<p>Cow magnets are primarily used by ranchers, farmers, and livestock workers to prevent stomach problems caused by metal objects (Braun, 2022). Obtaining these magnets can be influenced by factors like geographical location, cattle farming, and availability of veterinary supplies (Stanford Magnets, 2021). Cow magnets are commonly purchased from veterinary supply stores, agricultural supply stores, and internet merchants specializing in livestock supplies and farm equipment. However, accessibility to these magnets may pose challenges in remote areas and developing nations where veterinary supplies are scarce. Asking local agro-vet merchants about the cow magnet can help increase demand in these areas.</p> 

<p>The cost of cow magnets, as found on Alibaba.com, varies to accommodate different budget considerations. The Alnico cow magnet is priced between USD $0.80 to USD $8.00 per unit.  Alternatively, the standard rare earth neodymium (NdFeB) for different cattle needs ranges from USD $0.08 to USD $0.80 per unit. Cow magnets are typically cylindrical in shape and are usually around 7 to 10 cm in length and weigh approximately 113 to 170 grams.</p> 

<p>The possibility of trauma from incorrect administration is the main safety concern with cow magnets. The study by Braun et al., in 2005, emphasizes the danger of retropharyngeal abscessation due to improper magnet placement. This emphasizes the need to use caution while administering magnets and, if possible, to have the magnet admitted by a veterinary practitioner (Braun, 2005).</p> 

<p>An alternative to using a cow magnet would be using a type of magnetic separator that is intended to catch metal fragments in total mixed rations that are given to cattle. Unlike traditional cow magnets placed in the reticulum, this device is installed on the feeder mixer wagon, allowing the separation of metals before they reach the animals (Bisaglia & Romano, 2017). Its main purpose is to prevent hardware disease by capturing metallic foreign bodies present in the feed (Bisaglia & Romano, 2017). This device intercepts metal objects on the feed mixer wagon, preventing hardware disease by removing contaminants from the feed before they reach animals, unlike cow magnets which continuously hold metal items in the digestive system (Bisaglia & Romano, 2017).</p>
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       <h1 class="title-bg">Conclusion</h1>
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<p>In conclusion, cow magnets provide smallholder farmers with an affordable way to protect their livestock against hardware disease. Therefore, if you encounter your cattle displaying symptoms of traumatic reticuloperitonitis, it is recommended to initiate treatment with the administration of a magnet (Braun, 2003).</p> 
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       <h1 class="title-bg">Practical Resources to Get Started</h1>
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<p><b>Hardware disease:</b></p> 
<p>https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g7700
Website explaining hardware disease</p> 

<p>https://edepot.wur.nl/192844
Article explaining hardware disease</p> 

<p>https://nation.africa/kenya/business/seeds-of-gold/how-to-manage-hardware-disease-in-dairy-cattle-976576
Website explaining how to manage hardware disease </p>

<p><b>Cow magnets:</b></p> 
<p>https://www.stanfordmagnets.com/cow-magnets.html
Website explaining cow magnets </p>

<p>https://www.fzmag.com/brief-introduction-of-cow-magnet/
Website explaining cow magnets</p> 

<p><b>Links to YouTube videos:</b></p> 
<p>Hardware disease: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULhi-APYSgY
Video explaining hardware disease </p>

<p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zELvAT1yfzg
Video explaining hardware disease </p>

<p><b>Cow magnets:</b></p> 
<p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jcSymMzi-Y0
Video inserting a rumen magnet </p>

<p>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzOchVyyEdc
Video inserting a ruminal magnet</p> 

<p><b>Links to Cow Magnets:</b></p> 
<p>Alnico Cow Magnet:  https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Cheap-price-ALNICO-Cow-Magnet-with_1600063310858.html?spm=a2700.details.you_may_like.1.28b743d5lgompB </p>

<p><b>Rare earth neodymium (NdFeB) Cow Magnet:</b></p>
<p>https://www.alibaba.com/product-detail/Balin-Wholesale-High-Quality-Permanent-Cow_1600988681191.html?spm=a2700.galleryofferlist.p_offer.d_image.21db77a1dcToNc&s=p </p>
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       <h1 class="title-bg">References</h1>
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          <p>1.	Bhardwaj, N., Perez, J., & Peden, M. (2011). Optic neuropathy from cobalt toxicity in a patient who ingested cattle magnets. Neuro-Ophthalmology, 35(1), 24–26. https://doi.org/10.3109/01658107.2010.518334</p> 

<p>2.	Bisaglia, C., & Romano, E. (2017) A novel magnetic device for intercepting metal foreign objects in total mixed rations. Applied Engineering in Agriculture, 33(1), 55-61. https://doi.org/10.13031/aea.11722</p> 

<p>3.	Braun, U. (2022). Traumatic Reticuloperitonitis in Cattle - Digestive System. Merck Veterinary Manual. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/digestive-system/diseases-of-the-ruminant-forestomach/traumatic-reticuloperitonitis-in-cattle?autoredirectid=18721</p> 

<p>4.	Braun, U., Gansohr, B., & Flückiger, M. (2003). Radiographic findings before and after oral administration of a magnet in cows with traumatic reticuloperitonitis. American Journal of Veterinary Research, 64(1), 115–120. https://doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.2003.64.115</p> 

<p>5.	Braun, U., Lischer, C., Koller, U., Reudi Müller, & Urs Geissbühler. (1999). Imaging findings In a cow with retropharyngeally displaced magnet. Veterinary Radiology & Ultrasound, 40(2), 162–163. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1740-8261.1999.tb01902.x</p> 

<p>6.	Moseley, B. (1993). Hardware Disease of Cattle. University of Missouri extension. https://mospace.umsystem.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/10355/3652/HardwareDiseaseOfCattle.pdf?sequence=1</p> 

<p>7.	Orpin, P., & Harwood, D. (2008). Clinical management of traumatic reticuloperitonitis in cattle. In Practice, 30(10), 544–551. https://doi.org/10.1136/inpract.30.10.544</p> 

<p>8.	Schipper, I. A. (1958). Hardware Disease. North Dakota State University. https://library.ndsu.edu/ir/handle/10365/25072</p> 

<p>9.	Stanford Magnets (2024a) Alnico vs. Rare Earth Magnets: Understanding the differences and applications. (n.d.). Stanford Magnets. https://www.stanfordmagnets.com/alnico-vs-rare-earth-magnets-differences-and-applications.html</p> 

<p>10.	Stanford Magnets (2024b) Alnico magnets supplier manufacturer. https://www.stanfordmagnets.com/alnico-magnets.html</p> 

<p>11.	Stanford Magnets. (2021). Cow magnets. https://www.stanfordmagnets.com/cow-magnets.html</p> 

<p>12.	Thomas, H.S. (2009). Hardware in cattle: nails, bailing wire--it’s more common than you may think. Countryside & Small Stock Journal. 93(6) https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A210169527/PPGL?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-PPGL&xid=82d1061</p> 


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