New product to target bladder stone problems in minks

Many mink farmers have encountered the problem of death due to bladder stone formation – the deaths occur mainly among well-grown males. Bladder stones occur, when the urinary formation holds a pH value exceeding 6.4.

The production of bladder stones has its background in the composition of feed as well as in fluid balance and genetics. If the feed has a high pH value, the result is formation of stones. Adding more protein and grain products to the feed will result in a higher pH value. Animal protein results in a lower pH value. Some mink are genetically predisposed to form stones, and therefore the problem is occurring with certain farms year after year – it is therefore a good idea to initiate preventive measures

Lowering the pH of the feed can be achieved by adding ammonium chloride. Vitfoss therefore developed the liquid product – Succes Ammonium Chloride. The taste is neutral and the product is easy to stir. It is recommended to use 5 litres per ton of feed.

The product is available in both 15 litres containers and pallet tanks containing 500 or 1000 litres.