| Material | serum or urine 1 ml |
| Method | ICP-MS |
| Duration | 2–5 working days |
| Remark | - Cobalt is an essential trace mineral and a component of the vitamin B₁₂ (cobalamin) molecule. It plays a central role in erythropoiesis, DNA synthesis and energy metabolism. In ruminants, cobalt is necessary for microbial vitamin B₁₂ synthesis in the rumen.
- Cobalt deficiency leads to vitamin B₁₂ deficiency with anaemia, growth disorders and inappetence. Cobalt deficiency is rare in monogastric animals, as vitamin B₁₂ is absorbed directly from food.
- Excess cobalt rarely occurs naturally, but is usually iatrogenic due to excessive supplementation and can lead to polycythaemia, cardiac damage or neurological signs.
- In cattle and sheep, typical signs of deficiency are emaciation, reduced milk yield, hepatic fatty degeneration and hypoglycaemia (“pining”).
- Horse: Cobalt is required in small amounts as an essential trace mineral. Excessive cobalt intake (e.g. through injections or supplements) can stimulate erythropoietin metabolism and thus increase performance. Cobalt is therefore considered a dopingrelevant substance in horses.
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