Some effects of feeding sheep on low-sodium hay with and without sodium supplement

Abstract

1. After a preliminary period on pelleted perennial ryegrass hay (0.28% sodium in dry matter) groups of sheep were fed on timothy hay (0.04% Na) with and without added sodium chloride or sodium bicarbonate.2. When the sheep were fed on timothy hay, the Na content of urine and faeces fell and balances were negative. Na content of saliva fell markedly and potassium content increased.3. Supplementary N a prevented these changes.4. The low levels of dietary Na appeared to have no effect on the well-being of the sheep.