Sodium (Na) - cattle
Definition
Sodium (Na) is an essential mineral for cattle, working in conjunction with chloride (Cl) and potassium (K) to regulate osmotic pressure in body cells and maintain the body’s moisture balance.
These minerals also determine the cation-anion difference (acid-base balance) in both the diet and the animal’s body.
Importance
Sodium plays several critical roles in cattle physiology:
- Nerve function: Facilitates the transmission of nerve impulses.
- Nutrient absorption: Supports enzyme activity necessary for glucose and amino acid uptake.
- Buffering capacity: Acts as a buffer in the gastrointestinal tract through compounds such as sodium carbonate and sodium phosphate.
- Homeostasis: Blood sodium levels are tightly regulated to ensure metabolic stability.
Monitoring sodium status
To assess sodium supply, saliva analysis can provide valuable insights into the animal’s mineral balance.
Sodium requirements (CVB, 2016)
| Category | g/kg dry matter | g/animal/day |
| Young cattle from 4 months | 0.6 | 2.3 |
| Young cattle from 9 months | 0.5 | 3.0 |
| Young cattle from 16 months | 0.5 | 4.0 |
| Dry 8-3 weeks to calving | 0.7 | 7.6 |
| Dry 3-0 weeks to calving | 0.6 | 6.6 |
| Lactating (20 kg) | 1.1 | 20 |
| Lactating (40 kg) | 1.4 | 33 |
Sodium deficiency
Sodium deficiency does not produce highly specific symptoms but can lead to:
- Reduced feed intake
- Lower fertility and milk production
- Emaciation and lethargy
- Dry, stiff skin
- normal behaviours such as urine drinking and licking
- Retained placenta after calving
Sodium excess
Excess sodium may occur due to:
- High salt intake
- Water shortage
- Severe diarrhoea (fluid loss)
Symptoms include:
- Excessive drinking
- Stiff gait
- Muscle tremors
Toxicity Limit (CVB, 2005): 10 g/kg dry matter for chronic exposure.
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