Of all diseases that might attack farm animals, immunosuppression might just be the most frightening. It can cause infection, which hinders the immune system to function properly. Components that help the body fight diseases are in the immune system, which render animals vulnerable if compromised. 

There are several main causes of immunosuppression: stress, which produces corticosteroids in animal that leads to immunosuppression; virus, caused by apoptosis and necrosis of lymphoid cells, also bacteria and mycotoxins. 

Aside from that, immunosuppression can also be triggered by poor hygiene and management practices, suboptimal environmental conditions, “over” vaccination, and malnutrition.

Malnutrition in Immunosuppression

One of the most common causes of immunosuppression is malnutrition, either due to the lack of essential nutrients in the diet or insufficient food. Malnutrition and immunosuppression are part of a vicious cycle that can threaten the sustainability of the farm. Unfortunately, both are difficult to detect due to vague symptoms. This includes a generally unhealthy appearance like poor feathering or sunken eyes. 

Animals that suffer from malnutrition have a decreased immune function, so they naturally are more vulnerable to diseases. It affects their growth and production, with either death or intergenerational diseases as the worst-case scenario.

Regardless of the frightening threats, there are ways to prevent immunosuppression on farm animals, such as giving food supplements. Research found that feeding dietary supplements of Vitamin E like Bahtera’s Vitamin E Powder 50% to poultry species revitalizes immune responses against infectious diseases, prevents stress, and maintains fertility function that results in good egg production.

Meanwhile, feeding dietary supplements of Vitamin C like Bahtera’s Vitamin C Coated 97% proved to help cattles to recover from inflammation and heat-related stress. It can also be a fattening agent for cattle, resulting in improved beef firmness and texture.

With the looming threats of diseases, we have to ensure that our livestock gets sufficient nutrients in its diet. Click here to find your solution.