Osmonds Alpaca & Llama Vitamin A, D3, E & B12 Paste Alpacas are herbivores with a unique digestive system designed for grazing on pasture, quality hay & grains, however, due to variations in forage quality along with seasonal changes, it can be challenging to meet all their nutritional needs simply through natural sources. Vitamin supplements act as a valuable addition to minimising nutritional gaps in an alpaca’s diet. Supplements provide the essential vitamins & minerals that may be lacking from their regular feed. Vitamins A, D, & E are particularly important for alpacas, as they contribute to immune system function, bone & reproductive health. A strong & healthy immune system is crucial to fight off pathogens & maintain overall health. Vitamin C & E are known for their antioxidant properties, which help support the immune system & protect cells from unnecessary stress. Including vitamin supplements in an alpaca’s diet can provide the necessary boost to strengthen its immune system & minimise the risk of poor health & illnesses Strong bones are essential for alpacas and llamas, especially females (Hembras) during pregnancy & while feeding cria. Vitamin D, in particular, plays a vital role in calcium absorption & mineralising bones. Although alpacas can produce vitamin D through exposure to sunlight, supplements can provide an additional source to ensure optimum bone health. Regular supplementing of vitamin D can also help prevent conditions like rickets & osteoporosis, promoting strong & healthy bone Adequate nutrition is essential for the reproductive success of both males (Studs) & females (Hembra) . Vitamin E can improve fertility rates & overall reproductive performance. Including vitamin E supplements in the diet of breeding alpacas can enhance reproductive function & increase the chances of successful pregnancies. Vitamin D is essential for bone metabolism, therefore growing animals have high vitamin D requirements. One of its main effects is to enhance calcium absorption from the diet. It seems that alpacas and llamas have higher vitamin D requirements compared to Ruminants, and this may be due to them being adapted to very high UV exposure in their native environment, as UV exposure is necessary for activation of vitamin D in the skin (transformation of a cholesterol derivative into vitamin D3). As a result, vitamin D requirements are especially high for: Young growing animals (note that milk is essentially devoid of vitamin D). Animals with darker skin or heavy coat (blocking UV light). Animals not sufficiently exposed to UV light (i.e in northern latitudes or kept indoors for long periods). Vitamin D deficiency in growing animals leads to a bone condition called rickets. Please note that massive doses of vitamin D can be toxic so always dose correctly. Directions for use: Feed 5ml per Cria & 10ml per adult alpaca 4-6 weekly from mid Autumn through to early spring. Each pack contains 60ml of paste in 2 30ml tubes.
