Effect of a High-Protein High-Potassium Ration on the Mineral Metabolism of Lambs1

Abstract

A ration of known ingredients simulating in composition that of wheat pasture (high protein and high potassium) during periods in which “wheat pasture poisoning” occurs was formulated and fed to lambs in two balance trials. This ration provides a means of approaching the problem under more controlled conditions than is possible with clinical material in the field. In both trials, the high-protein, high-potassium ration resulted in a significant increase in fecal magnesium excretion when compared with feeding a control ration. Magnesium retention was significantly decreased in the first trial and was slightly decreased in the second by the high-protein, high-potassium ration. The increased fecal excretion of magnesium was associated with a decreased plasma level. The findings of this study are consistent with the view that rations high in protein or potassium may induce tetany by interfering with the absorption or retention of magnesium.