Those needed in small amounts are classified as micro, minor, or trace minerals. These terms, however, have no relationship to the metabolic importance of a mineral in the diet. A trace mineral can be as essential to the health and performance of an animal as a major mineral. The major minerals include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sodium, chlorine and sulfur. Among those needed in trace amounts are iron, zinc, manganese, copper, iodine, cobalt and selenium.
Mineral needs Certain factors influence the mineral supplementation of beef cattle rations.
Animal requirements differ by age, sex, and production function. The mineral composition of plants varies because of soils, weather, variety, stage of maturity, harvest method, etc. The availability of minerals in feeds can differ. The absorption, excretion and metabolic function of certain minerals are interrelated. These minerals must be kept in proper ratio to one another in the ration.