Calcium and phosphorus requirements for sheep and goats

Sheep and goats need to consume the right amount of calcium and phosphorus in their diets. Calcium is important for bone development, milk production, muscle contraction, blood coagulation, enzyme activity, and hormone release. Phosphorus is also important for bone development, energy metabolism, and cell signaling.

The ideal ratio of calcium to phosphorus is 2:1, but it can be tolerated up to 7:1. This means that the amount of calcium in the diet must be at least two times the level of phosphorus in the diet.

There are a few things that producers can do to ensure that their sheep and goats are getting enough calcium and phosphorus. One way is to include legumes in the forage. Legumes are a good source of calcium, and they can help to balance out the phosphorus content of the diet.

Another way to increase calcium levels in the diet is to add ground limestone or dicalcium phosphate. Ground limestone is a good source of calcium, and it is relatively inexpensive. Dicalcium phosphate is also a good source of calcium, but it also contains phosphorus.

To increase phosphorus levels in the diet, producers can add cereal grains, dicalcium phosphate, or monoammonium phosphate. Cereal grains are a good source of phosphorus, but they also contain calcium. Dicalcium phosphate and monoammonium phosphate are both good sources of phosphorus, but they do not contain calcium.

It is important to note that the calcium and phosphorus requirements of sheep and goats change throughout their lives. For example, pregnant ewes and does have higher calcium and phosphorus requirements than non-pregnant animals. Producers should consult with their veterinarian or a nutritionist to determine the specific calcium and phosphorus requirements for their animals.

Balancing diets to meet nutritional requirements should occur every year. Producers should always utilize forage analysis results when balancing diets. Forage nutrient content can change greatly from one cutting to the next and from year to year.

Producers who need assistance balancing diets can contact their local Penn State Extension livestock educators and consult with a local nutritionist.

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