What is the key role of B Vitamins in cattle?

B Vitamins play a crucial role in energy metabolism in cattle. These vitamins function as coenzymes in various biochemical reactions necessary for converting feed components into energy. Specifically, B Vitamins such as B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), and B6 (pyridoxine) are essential for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. This energy is vital for numerous bodily functions, including growth, reproduction, and overall maintenance of health.

In cattle, vitamin deficiencies can lead to metabolic disorders, reduced growth rates, and decreased feed efficiency, indicating the importance of B Vitamins in ensuring that energy metabolism proceeds effectively. While growth stimulation, muscle repair, and improving coat quality are important aspects of cattle health and production, they are more directly impacted by other nutrients in conjunction with energy metabolism rather than being a primary role of B Vitamins. Therefore, the key function of B Vitamins in this context is to support the intricate processes of energy conversion and utilization within the animal’s body.