Sheep

Reasonable sheep meat prices and increased demand for heavy weight lambs have contributed to the increased interest in finishing lambs in a feedlot. Under feedlot conditions sheep are sensitive to trace mineral imbalances. Since copper-molybdenum-sulphur levels interact with each other, these trace minerals must be included in adequate amounts to prevent imbalances and reduced performance.  Selenium also is of concern, especially in areas that have a high incidence of white muscle disease.  Vitamins A, D and E are important for finishing lambs and usually to be supplemented in finishing rations.  Water soluble vitamins (B vitamins) usually are not needed unless lambs are sick and their digestive systems are not functioning properly.

Under feedlot conditions sheep are sensitive to trace mineral imbalances.