Minerals, both macro and micro, are important to the health and well being of animals. It has still not been determined the exact number of essential trace elements that constitute a well balanced diet when included with the other nutrients. With stressed calves, Cr has been shown to improve feed efficiency possibly through the potentiation of insulin action. Nickel deficiencies have been described in cattle, sheep and goats, all animals with the common range as deer. Nickel deficient goats have exhibited higher abortion rates, lower conception rates and milk production, a decreased viability of females and kids, and skin and skeletal lesions.
Much more work is needed in the area of silicon research with large animals.
Shown to be essential in relative small amounts. Deficiency may lead to detriment of bone tissue metabolism and skeletal deformation.