Advanced precision veterinary technologies and smart boluses: Innovations in drug delivery, health monitoring, and future perspectives

Advancements in veterinary medicine are revolutionizing animal health management through precise drug delivery and real-time health monitoring, significantly improving livestock health and productivity. Smart bolus is designed to provide controlled, sustained release of therapeutic agents, making them highly effective for managing the health of commercial animals. Recent innovations, including advanced sensors, wireless communication, biodegradable materials, and 3D-printed boluses, enable real-time monitoring of critical parameters such as temperature, pH, and drug concentrations within the animal. These technologies find applications in early disease detection, heat stress management, feed optimization, and reproductive health, greatly enhancing animal welfare and farm profitability. Furthermore, the integration of IoT, artificial intelligence based analytics, and blockchain-based traceability has improved the functionality and reliability of smart boluses, driving advancements in precision livestock farming. By ensuring accurate dosing, reducing handling frequency, and maintaining consistent therapeutic levels, these devices enhance treatment outcomes. Additionally, they autonomously monitor metabolic health in ruminants/non-ruminants and deliver targeted treatments for gastrointestinal infections, such as antibiotics or nutrients, minimizing the need for repeated manual interventions. This review explores the current advancements in smart bolus technology, highlights its transformative applications, and evaluates its potential to foster sustainable and efficient livestock management systems.