Applications of clinoptilolite in veterinary medicine and animal husbandry

Abstract

Zeolites are compounds of either natural or synthetic origin and have been employed successfully in a number of industries, including veterinary medicine and animal husbandry. Clinoptilolite is the form of naturally occurring zeolite that has undergone the most scientific study out of the 140 various varieties and is also used the most as a component in animal feed. Natural clay minerals and zeolites are administered with encouraging results due to their detoxifying, antioxidant, hemostatic, anti-diarrheal, and immunostimulant properties. In this paper, the characteristics and possible applications of clinoptilolite as an animal feed additive in order to prevent and/or treat particular diseases in dairy cows will be discussed. Natural and manufactured zeolites have been used as feed additives in cow nutrition, primarily to reduce the absorption of mycotoxins through the gastrointestinal tract, improve general health status, and increase overall animal performance. Clinoptilolite is marketed as a feed additive that helps maintain and improve the fertility, well-being, and productivity of cattle.