Effects of a Sodium Supplement on Lactating Cows and their Calves on Tropical Native Pastures.

Abstract

Ten milking cows with calves were given unionized salt twice weekly for 12 weeks while another group of ten cows with calves received no supplement. They grazed together on native pasture. Live-weights were recorded weekly. Sodium and potassium levels in saliva, urine and milk of the cows and in drinking water and pasture samples were determined once. Body condition of the cows was assessed at the beginning and the end of the experiment, and pregnancy status at the end only.