Why Are Minerals Important in Animal Feeding?

Minerals are essential for animal health, production and reproduction. Trace minerals are only needed in small amounts. Minerals needed in larger quantities are often referred to as macrominerals. Mineral deficiencies disrupt health and performance, but oversupply can cause toxicity.

  1. Mineral Absorption

    • Chemical changes take place within animal digestive tracts to allow minerals to be absorbed. Bioavailability relates to the amount of minerals absorbed compared to amount fed, and can vary widely.

    Causes of Mineral Deficiencies

    • Mineral deficiencies can result from insufficient dietary intake. However, deficiency can also occur when minerals interact to disrupt absorption or when other factors impact absorption, distribution or retention of minerals.

    Macrominerals

    • There are seven recognized macrominerals in animal diets: calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sulfur, potassium and sodium. They are important for bone structure, water balance and amino acid structure.

    Trace Minerals

    • Trace minerals are necessary in small quantities for proper reproduction, immunity, enzyme response and other functions. Geographic location can impact deficiency levels due to changes in soil minerals.

    Mineral Supplements

    • Animal feeds should be tested to determine which mineral or salt-mineral supplement might be necessary in order to ensure the proper set of minerals in proper ratios are available to the animal.