The Transfer of Zinc from the Blood to the Rumen in Sheep

Abstract

65Zn was found to be present in rumen digesta after a single dose of 65ZnCl2 was administered intravenously; the maximum level was reached approximately 3 days after the dose was given. After a single dose of 65ZnCh was administered intraruminally, 65Zn disappeared exponentially from the rumen, the time taken for the quantity present in the rumen to halve being 0·6-0·7 days. It was calculated that in 7 days following intravenous injections of 65ZnC12, 1-2% of the injected dose was transferred to the rumen; transfer appeared to take place through the rumen epithelium as well as via saliva.