Sheep element excretion after supplementation

In this experiment, sheep were given mineral supplements in their feed containing selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn) and copper (Cu), with four treatments: two forms of the supplement (micronutrients in organic or inorganic compounds in the feed), and two levels of supplement dosing (higher or lower). The mass of excreta (faeces and urine) and the concentration of micro- and macro-nutrients in the excreta were measured over the course of the feeding trial. The trial was conducted over four weeks; the first two weeks were a baseline period and were followed by two weeks of feed that included the supplements. Data presented include: sheep mass and body condition throughout the experiment; the mass of silage and concentrate feed consumed by sheep and its macro- and micro-nutrient contents; the volume of urine and the mass of faeces excreted and their macro- and micro-nutrient contents; and the results of a preliminary trial to assess whether drying of the sheep faeces affects the measurement of macro- and micro-nutrients by ICP analysis. In addition to the micronutrients in the supplements, data are presented for P, S, Fe, Mo, and Cd, plus Al, As, Ca, Co, Cr, K, Mg, Na, Ni, Pb, and Ti in the feed only. Animals were assessed daily for health and well-being, as determined by alertness, feed and water intake. All animal procedures and the care for the animals were carried out under strict regulations described in the Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986 issued by the Home Office of Her Majesty’s Britannic Government under the Project License number P592D2677