A Study of the Function of Cobalt in the Nutrition of Sheep

Abstract

Sheep fed a ration of low-Co hay, low-Co corn, and non-fat dry milk solids developed marked Co deficiency symptoms in every case. The oral admn. of 3.5 mg. of Co twice a week prevented the development of Co deficiency. At the time of the first treatment of the deficient animals, the Co-supplemented sheep had gained approx. 7 times as much in weight; were eating 5 times as much concentrates, 6 times as much hay, and were drinking twice as much water as the deficient animals. When administered orally, both Co sulfate and Co carbonate relieved the deficiency. When injd. intraven., Co sulfate brought about a slow response if given daily or in large enough quantities twice a week. B complex vitamins, liver extract, certain amino acids, a Co-free mineral mixture, fresh rumen liquid, and fresh raw milk were all without value in relieving the deficiency.