Free Standard AU & NZ Shipping For All Book Orders Over $80!
Register      Login
Animal Production Science Animal Production Science Society
Food, fibre and pharmaceuticals from animals
REVIEW

Do calcium and magnesium deficiencies in reproducing ewes contribute to high lamb mortality?

Michael A. Friend A H , Marie S. Bhanugopan A B , Shawn R. McGrath A B , Janelle Hocking Edwards C , Serina Hancock D , Kate Loudon D , David Miller D , Peter McGilchrist E , Gordon Refshauge F , Susan M. Robertson A B , Andrew N. Thompson D and David G. Masters G
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (Charles Sturt University and NSW Department of Primary Industries), Albert Pugsley Place, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia.

B School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia.

C South Australian Research and Development Institute, Struan, SA 5271, Australia.

D School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, 90 South Street, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia.

E School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Madgewick Drive, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia.

F New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Cowra Agricultural Research and Advisory Station, Binni Creek Road, Cowra, NSW 2794, Australia.

G School of Agriculture and Environment, M085, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia.

H Corresponding author. Email: mfriend@csu.edu.au

Animal Production Science 60(6) 733-751 https://doi.org/10.1071/AN17588
Submitted: 24 August 2017  Accepted: 3 September 2019   Published: 18 March 2020

Abstract

High lamb mortality continues to be a significant economic and welfare problem within the Australian sheep industry, with 20–30% of lambs born in commercial flocks dying mostly within 3 days of birth. Clinical hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia cause ewe mortality, and, subsequently, either fetal or lamb death, but it is not known whether subclinical deficiencies of calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) compromise lamb survival. This review considers the potential mechanisms through which Ca and Mg deficiencies may influence lamb survival, and factors influencing the risk of deficiency. Pastures grazed by lambing ewes may be marginal in calcium (Ca; <4 g/kg DM) and magnesium (Mg; <0.9 g/kg DM) but also have a high dietary cation–anion difference (>12 meq/100 g DM) and high concentrations of potassium (K; >30 g/kg DM) and nitrogen. In young cereal crops, sodium concentrations are also often low (<0.9 g/kg DM). This combination of minerals and other nutrients creates an imbalance in supply and increases susceptibility to acute Ca (hypocalcaemia) and Mg (hypomagnesaemia) deficiency. Calcium is required for smooth muscle function and has a direct role in uterine contraction, so may influence the duration of parturition. Low Ca and Mg intake both influence insulin release and sensitivity, low Mg results in poor glycaemic control and insulin resistance by impairing both insulin secretion and its action on peripheral tissues, also potentially altering the duration of parturition as well as risk of metabolic disease. Magnesium is also a neuroprotectant that slows the neuronal damage during hypoxia and has been linked with thermogenesis in offspring and increased immunoglobulins in colostrum. These functions indicate potential importance in improving the ease of parturition and improved ability of the newborn lamb to thermoregulate and survive after birth. Subclinical Ca and Mg deficiencies commonly occur in 20% of lambing ewes grazing temperate pastures, so further studies are warranted to investigate whether correction of these deficiencies can improve lamb survival.

Additional keywords: hypocalcaemia, hypomagnesaemia, metabolic disease, pregnancy.


References

Achmadi J, Sano H, Terashima Y (2001) Effect of hypomagnesemia and cold exposure on tissue responsiveness to insulin in sheep given a low magnesium and high potassium diet. Domestic Animal Endocrinology 20, 101–108.
Effect of hypomagnesemia and cold exposure on tissue responsiveness to insulin in sheep given a low magnesium and high potassium diet.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 11311848PubMed |

Alexander G (1962) Temperature regulation in the new-born lamb. IV. The effect of wind and evaporation of water from the coat on metabolic rate and body temperature. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 13, 82–99.
Temperature regulation in the new-born lamb. IV. The effect of wind and evaporation of water from the coat on metabolic rate and body temperature.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Alexander G, Williams D (1970) Summit metabolism and cardiovascular function in young lambs during hyperoxia and hypoxia. The Journal of Physiology 208, 85–97.
Summit metabolism and cardiovascular function in young lambs during hyperoxia and hypoxia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 5499781PubMed |

Alexander G, Lynch JJ, Mottershead BE, Donnelly JB (1980) Reduction in lamb mortality by means of grass wind-breaks: results of a five-year study. Proceedings of the Australian Society of Animal Production 13, 329–331.

Alexander G, Stevens D, Kilgour R, de Langen H, Mottershead BE, Lynch JJ (1983) Separation of ewes from twin lambs: incidence in several sheep breeds. Applied Animal Ethology 10, 301–317.
Separation of ewes from twin lambs: incidence in several sheep breeds.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Ali AMH (2011) Causes and management of dystocia in small ruminants in Saudi Arabia. Journal of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences 4, 95–108.

Allen WM, Sansom BF (1986) Metabolic disorders. In ‘Current veterinary therapy: food animal practice. Vol. 2’. (Ed. JL Howard) pp. 311–322. (W.B. Saunders: Philadelphia, PA, USA)

Andrews A (1997) Pregnancy toxaemia in the ewe. In Practice 19, 306–314.
Pregnancy toxaemia in the ewe.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Annison EF, Lindsay DB, Nolan JV (2002) Digestion and metabolism. In ‘Sheep nutrition’. (Eds M Freer, H Dove) pp. 95–118. (CAB International: Wallingford, UK)

Arnold GW, Morgan PD (1975) Behaviour of the ewe and lamb at lambing and its relationship to lamb mortality. Applied Animal Ethology 2, 25–46.
Behaviour of the ewe and lamb at lambing and its relationship to lamb mortality.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Arthur GH (1975) ‘Veterinary reproduction and obstetrics.’ (Baillière Tindall: London, UK)

Ataollahi F, Friend M, McGrath S, Dutton G, Peters A, Bhanugopan M (2018) Effect of calcium and magnesium supplementation on minerals profile, immune responses and energy profile of ewes and their lambs. Livestock Science 217, 167–173.
Effect of calcium and magnesium supplementation on minerals profile, immune responses and energy profile of ewes and their lambs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Baird N, Pugh DG (2012) ‘Sheep & goat medicine.’ (Elsevier Health Sciences: Saint Louis, MO, USA)

Beede DK (1992) The DCAD concept: transition rations for dry pregnant cows. Feedstuffs 64, 10–19.

Berger LL (1992) Grass tetany: causes and prevention. Salt & Trace Minerals 24, 1–4.

Bhanugopan MS, Fulkerson WJ, Hyde M, Fraser DR (2015) Effect of dietary potassium supplementation on the calcium absorption capacity in the rumen and abomasum and fractional excretion of urinary minerals in sheep. Animal Production Science 55, 508–514.
Effect of dietary potassium supplementation on the calcium absorption capacity in the rumen and abomasum and fractional excretion of urinary minerals in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Blaine J, Chonchol M, Levi M (2014) Renal control of calcium, phosphate, and magnesium homeostasis. Clinical Journal of American Society of Nephrology 10, 1257–1272.
Renal control of calcium, phosphate, and magnesium homeostasis.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Bloom S, Edwards A (1975) The release of pancreatic glucagon and inhibition of insulin in response to stimulation of the sympathetic innervation. The Journal of Physiology 253, 157–173.
The release of pancreatic glucagon and inhibition of insulin in response to stimulation of the sympathetic innervation.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1206580PubMed |

Blumer CC, Madden FJ, Walker DJ (1939) Hypocalcaemia, grass tetany or grass staggers in sheep. Australian Veterinary Journal 15, 24–27.
Hypocalcaemia, grass tetany or grass staggers in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Bohman VR, Horn FP, Stewart BA, Mathers AC, Grunes DL (1983) Wheat pasture poisoning. I. An evaluation of cereal pastures as related to tetany in beef cows. Journal of Animal Science 57, 1352–1363.
Wheat pasture poisoning. I. An evaluation of cereal pastures as related to tetany in beef cows.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6674278PubMed |

Braithwaite GD (1978) The effect of dietary calcium intake of ewes in pregnancy on their calcium and phosphorus metabolism in lactation. British Journal of Nutrition 39, 213–218.
The effect of dietary calcium intake of ewes in pregnancy on their calcium and phosphorus metabolism in lactation.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 619973PubMed |

Braithwaite GD (1983) Calcium and phosphorus requirements of the ewe during pregnancy and lactation. 1. Calcium. British Journal of Nutrition 50, 711–722.
Calcium and phosphorus requirements of the ewe during pregnancy and lactation. 1. Calcium.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6639928PubMed |

Braithwaite GD, Glascock RF, Riazuddin S (1969) Calcium metabolism in lactating ewes. British Journal of Nutrition 23, 827–834.
Calcium metabolism in lactating ewes.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 5390540PubMed |

Braithwaite GD, Glascock RF, Riazuddin S (1970) Calcium metabolism in pregnant ewes. British Journal of Nutrition 24, 661–670.
Calcium metabolism in pregnant ewes.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 5528431PubMed |

Breazile JE (1994) Skeletal muscle physiology. In ‘Duke’s physiology of domestic animals’. (Eds MJ Swenson, WC Reece) pp. 855–873. (Comstock Publishing Association: Ithaka, NY, USA)

Brookes IM, Nicol AM (2007) The protein requirements of grazing livestock. In ‘Pasture and supplements for grazing animals’. Occasional Publication No. 14. (Eds PV Rattray, IM Brookes, AM Nicol) pp. 173–188. (New Zealand Society of Animal Production: Hamilton, New Zealand)

Brozos C, Mavrogianni V, Fthenkis G (2011) Treatment and control of peri-parturient metabolic diseases: pregnancy toxaemia, hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia. The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Food Animal Practice 27, 105–113.
Treatment and control of peri-parturient metabolic diseases: pregnancy toxaemia, hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 21215894PubMed |

Budge H, Edwards LJ, McMillen IC, Bryce A, Warnes K, Pearce S, Stephenson T, Symonds ME (2004) Nutritional manipulation of fetal adipose tissue deposition and uncoupling protein 1 messenger RNA abundance in the sheep: differential effects of timing and duration. Biology of Reproduction 71, 359–365.
Nutritional manipulation of fetal adipose tissue deposition and uncoupling protein 1 messenger RNA abundance in the sheep: differential effects of timing and duration.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 15056567PubMed |

Cabrera Estrada JI, Delagarde R, Faverdin P, Peyraud JL (2004) Dry matter intake and eating rate of grass by dairy cows is restricted by internal, but not external water. Animal Feed Science and Technology 114, 59–74.
Dry matter intake and eating rate of grass by dairy cows is restricted by internal, but not external water.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Caple IW (1989) Nutritional problems affecting calcium and magnesium metabolism in grazing ruminants. Recent Advances in Animal Nutrition 23, 37–46.

Caple IW, Azuolas JK, Nugent GF (1985) Assessment of iodine status and thyroid function of sheep and goats kept under pastoral conditions. In ‘Trace element metabolism in man and animals. Proceedings of the fifth international symposium on trace element metabolism in man and animals (TEMA-5)’. (Eds CF Mills, I Bremner, JK Chesters) pp. 609–613. (Commonwealth Agricultural Bureaux: Slough, UK)

Caple IW, Babacan E, Pham TT, Heath JA, Grant IM, Vizard AL, Cameron SJ, Allworth MB (1988a) Seasonal vitamin D deficiency in sheep in south-eastern Australia. Proceedings of the Australian Society of Animal Production 17, 379

Caple IW, Heath JA, Grant IM (1988b) Calcium requirements of sheep during pregnancy, lactation and growth. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society of Australia 13, 33–40.

Caple IW, Nugent GF, Azuolas JK, Foot JZ, Thompson RL (1982) Effects of iodine supplementation of ewes on survival and growth of lambs. Animal Production in Australia 14, 535–538.

Care A, Brown R, Farrar A, Pickard D (1984) Magnesium absorption from the digestive tract of sheep. Quarterly Journal of Experimental Physiology (Cambridge, England) 69, 577–587.
Magnesium absorption from the digestive tract of sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Chen TC, Castillo L, Koryckad M, Deluca HF (1974) Role of vitamin-D metabolites in phosphate transport of rat intestine. The Journal of Nutrition 104, 1056–1060.
Role of vitamin-D metabolites in phosphate transport of rat intestine.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 4854171PubMed |

Christley R, Morgan K, Parkin T, French N (2003) Factors related to the risk of neonatal mortality, birth-weight and serum immunoglobulin concentration in lambs in the UK. Preventive Veterinary Medicine 57, 209–226.
Factors related to the risk of neonatal mortality, birth-weight and serum immunoglobulin concentration in lambs in the UK.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 12609466PubMed |

Clark DA, Woodward SL (2007) Supplementation of dairy cows, beef cattle and sheep grazing pasture. In ‘Pasture and supplements for grazing animals’. Occasional Publication No. 14. (Eds PV Rattray, IM Brookes, AM Nicol) pp. 117–132. (New Zealand Society of Animal Production: Hamilton, New Zealand)

Clarke L, Bryant MJ, Lomax MA, Symonds ME (1997) Maternal manipulation of brown adipose tissue and liver development in the ovine fetus during late gestation. British Journal of Nutrition 77, 871–883.
Maternal manipulation of brown adipose tissue and liver development in the ovine fetus during late gestation.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 9227185PubMed |

Cloete SWP, Scholtz AJ, Ten Hoope JM, Lombard PJA, Franken MC (1998) Ease of birth relation to pelvic dimensions, litter weight and conformation of sheep. Small Ruminant Research 31, 51–60.
Ease of birth relation to pelvic dimensions, litter weight and conformation of sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Cockcroft P, Whiteley P (1999) Hypocalcaemia in 23 ataxic/recumbent ewes: clinical signs and likelihood ratios. The Veterinary Record 144, 529–532.
Hypocalcaemia in 23 ataxic/recumbent ewes: clinical signs and likelihood ratios.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 10378281PubMed |

Coffman J (1980) Calcium and phosphorus physiology and pathophysiology. Equine Practice 9, 93–96.

Conceição EPS, Moura EG, Oliveira E, Guarda DS, Figueiredo MS, Quitete FT, Calvino C, Miranda RA, Mathias PCF, Manhães AC, Lisboa PC (2017) Dietary calcium supplementation in adult rats reverts brown adipose tissue dysfunction programmed by postnatal early overfeeding. The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry 39, 117–125.
Dietary calcium supplementation in adult rats reverts brown adipose tissue dysfunction programmed by postnatal early overfeeding.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 27833052PubMed |

CSIRO (2007) ‘Nutrient requirements of domesticated ruminants.’ (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne, Vic., Australia)

Cunningham J, Klein B (Ed. B Klein) (2013) ‘Cunningham’s textbook of veterinary physiology.’ (Elsevier/Saunders: St Louis, MO, USA)

Curry DL, Joy RM, Holley DC, Bennett LL (1977) Magnesium modulation of glucose-induced insulin secretion by the perfused rat pancreas. Endocrinology 101, 203–208.
Magnesium modulation of glucose-induced insulin secretion by the perfused rat pancreas.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 324755PubMed |

Curtis KMS (2014) Stocktake of the Australian sheep flock. Final report project no. BLSM.0055. (Meat & Livestock Australia Ltd: Sydney)

Curtis C, Erb H, Sniffen C, Smith R, Powers P, Smith M, White M, Hillman R, Pearson E (1983) Association of parturient hypocalcemia with eight periparturient disorders in Holstein cows. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 183, 559–561.

Curtis CR, Erb HN, Sniffen CJ, Smith RD (1984) Epidemiology of parturient paresis: predisposing factors with emphasis on dry cow feeding and management. Journal of Dairy Science 67, 817-825

Dalley D, Isherwood P, Sykey A, Robson A (1997) Effect of in vitro manipulation of pH on magnesium solubility in ruminal and caecal digesta in sheep. The Journal of Agricultural Science 129, 107–111.
Effect of in vitro manipulation of pH on magnesium solubility in ruminal and caecal digesta in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Dalton DC, Knight TW, Johnson DL (1980) Lamb survival in sheep breeds on New Zealand Hill country. New Zealand Journal of Agricultural Research 23, 167–173.
Lamb survival in sheep breeds on New Zealand Hill country.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Daniel RCW (1983) Motility of the rumen and abomasum during hypocalcaemia. Canadian Journal of Comparative Medicine 47, 276–280.

Darwish RA, Ashmawy TAM (2011) The impact of lambing stress on post-parturient behaviour of sheep with consequences on neonatal homeothermy and survival. Theriogenology 76, 999–1005.
The impact of lambing stress on post-parturient behaviour of sheep with consequences on neonatal homeothermy and survival.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 21719079PubMed |

Davies HL (1970) The effect of different cultivars of subterranean clover (T. subterraneum L.) on sheep reproduction in the south west of Western Australia. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 21, 359–369.
The effect of different cultivars of subterranean clover (T. subterraneum L.) on sheep reproduction in the south west of Western Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

de Haan HH, Gunn AJ, Williams CE, Heymann MA, Gluckman PD (1997) Magnesium sulfate therapy during asphyxia in near-term fetal lambs does not compromise the fetus but does not reduce cerebral injury. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 176, 18–27.
Magnesium sulfate therapy during asphyxia in near-term fetal lambs does not compromise the fetus but does not reduce cerebral injury.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 9024083PubMed |

Dennis SM (1974) Perinatal lamb mortality in Western Australia. 1. General procedures and results. Australian Veterinary Journal 50, 443–449.
Perinatal lamb mortality in Western Australia. 1. General procedures and results.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 4447527PubMed |

Dove H (2007) Mineral nutrition of sheep grazing dual-purpose wheats. In ‘Grains research technical update’, Wagga Wagga, NSW. (Eds D Kaminskas, S Rawlings) pp. 71–75. (Jon Lamb Communications: Adelaide)

Dove H, Kelman W (2015) Liveweight gains of young sheep grazing dual-purpose wheat with sodium and magnesium supplied as direct supplement, or with magnesium supplied as fertiliser. Animal Production Science 55, 1217–1229.
Liveweight gains of young sheep grazing dual-purpose wheat with sodium and magnesium supplied as direct supplement, or with magnesium supplied as fertiliser.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Dove H, McMullen KG (2009) Diet selection, herbage intake and liveweight gain in young sheep grazing dual-purpose wheats and sheep responses to mineral supplements. Animal Production Science 49, 749–758.
Diet selection, herbage intake and liveweight gain in young sheep grazing dual-purpose wheats and sheep responses to mineral supplements.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Dove H, Kelman WM, Kirkegaard JA, Sprague SJ (2012) Impact of magnesium–sodium supplementation on liveweight gains of young sheep grazing dual-purpose cereal or canola crops. Animal Production Science 52, 1027–1035.
Impact of magnesium–sodium supplementation on liveweight gains of young sheep grazing dual-purpose cereal or canola crops.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Dove H, Masters DG, Thompson AN (2016) New perspectives on the mineral nutrition of livestock grazing cereal and canola crops. Animal Production Science 56, 1350–1360.
New perspectives on the mineral nutrition of livestock grazing cereal and canola crops.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Dunshea FR, D’Souza DN, Pethick DW, Harper GS, Warner RD (2005) Effects of dietary factors and other metabolic modifiers on quality and nutritional value of meat. Meat Science 71, 8–38.
Effects of dietary factors and other metabolic modifiers on quality and nutritional value of meat.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 22064049PubMed |

Dutra F, Banchero G (2011) Polwarth and Texel ewe parturition duration and its association with lamb birth asphyxia. Journal of Animal Science 89, 3069–3078.
Polwarth and Texel ewe parturition duration and its association with lamb birth asphyxia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 21531850PubMed |

Dutra F, Quintans G, Banchero G (2007) Lesions in the central nervous system associated with perinatal lamb mortality. Australian Veterinary Journal 85, 405–413.
Lesions in the central nervous system associated with perinatal lamb mortality.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 17903128PubMed |

Dwyer CM (2003) Behavioural development in the neonatal lamb: effect of maternal and birth-related factors. Theriogenology 59, 1027–1050.
Behavioural development in the neonatal lamb: effect of maternal and birth-related factors.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 12517402PubMed |

Dwyer CM (2014) Maternal behaviour and lamb survival: from neuroendocrinology to practical application. Animal 8, 102–112.
Maternal behaviour and lamb survival: from neuroendocrinology to practical application.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 24103485PubMed |

Dwyer CM, Bünger L (2012) Factors affecting dystocia and offspring vigour in different sheep genotypes. Preventive Veterinary Medicine 103, 257–264.
Factors affecting dystocia and offspring vigour in different sheep genotypes.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 21958901PubMed |

Eales FA, Small J (1985) Effects of acute hypoxia on heat production capacity in newborn lambs. Research in Veterinary Science 39, 212–215.
Effects of acute hypoxia on heat production capacity in newborn lambs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 3840908PubMed |

Elias E, Shainkin-Kestenbaum R (1990) Hypocalcaemia and serum levels of inorganic phosphorus, magnesium parathyroid and calcitonin hormones in the last month of pregnancy in Awassi fat-tail ewes. Reproduction, Nutrition, Development 30, 693–699.
Hypocalcaemia and serum levels of inorganic phosphorus, magnesium parathyroid and calcitonin hormones in the last month of pregnancy in Awassi fat-tail ewes.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 2080991PubMed |

Elliott M (2009) ‘Grass tetany in cattle.’ Primefact 420. (New South Wales Department of Primary Industry: Orange, NSW)

Epstein G, Fanksa R, Grodsky GM (1978) The effect of potassium and valinomycin on insulin and glucagon secretion in the perfused rat pancreas. Endocrinology 103, 2207–2215.

Elliott DA, Rizack MA (1974) Epinephrine and adrenocorticotropic hormone-stimulated magnesium accumulation in adipocytes and their plasma membranes. The Journal of Biological Chemistry 249, 3985–3990.

Fawcett W, Haxby E, Male D (1999) Magnesium: physiology and pharmacology. British Journal of Anaesthesia 83, 302–320.
Magnesium: physiology and pharmacology.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 10618948PubMed |

Field A, Suttle N, Nisbet D (1975) Effect of diets low in calcium and phosphorus on the development of growing lambs. The Journal of Agricultural Science 85, 435–442.
Effect of diets low in calcium and phosphorus on the development of growing lambs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Fogarty NM, Hall DG, Holst PJ (1992) The effect of nutrition in mid pregnancy and ewe liveweight change on birth weight and management for lamb survival in highly fecund ewes. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 32, 1–10.
The effect of nutrition in mid pregnancy and ewe liveweight change on birth weight and management for lamb survival in highly fecund ewes.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Fonsêca VFC, Saraiva EP, Pimenta Filho EC, Furtado DA, Mariz TMA, Silva AL, Almeida MEV, Pinheiro AC (2014) Influence of the climatic environment and duration of labor on the mother-offspring interaction in Morada Nova sheep. Journal of Animal Science 92, 4123–4129.
Influence of the climatic environment and duration of labor on the mother-offspring interaction in Morada Nova sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Foster A, Livesey C, Edwards GR (2007) Magnesium disorders in ruminants. In Practice 29, 534–539.
Magnesium disorders in ruminants.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Fraser DR (1980) Regulation of the metabolism of vitamin D. Physiological Reviews 60, 551–613.
Regulation of the metabolism of vitamin D.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6992167PubMed |

Fredeen AH (1990) Effects of calcium loss and high dietary calcium and potassium on calcium kinetics and magnesium balance in sheep fed low magnesium diets. Canadian Journal of Animal Science 70, 1109–1117.
Effects of calcium loss and high dietary calcium and potassium on calcium kinetics and magnesium balance in sheep fed low magnesium diets.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Gardner GE, Jacob RH, Pethick DW (2001) The effect of magnesium oxide supplementation on muscle glycogen metabolism before and after exercise and at slaughter in sheep. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 52, 723–729.
The effect of magnesium oxide supplementation on muscle glycogen metabolism before and after exercise and at slaughter in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Geenty K, Brien F, Hinch G, Dobos R, Refshauge G, McCaskill M, Ball A, Behrendt R, Gore K, Savage D (2014) Reproductive performance in the Sheep CRC Information Nucleus using artificial insemination across different sheep-production environments in southern Australia. Animal Production Science 54, 715–726.
Reproductive performance in the Sheep CRC Information Nucleus using artificial insemination across different sheep-production environments in southern Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

George JM (1976) The incidence of dystocia in Dorset Horn ewes. Australian Veterinary Journal 52, 519–523.
The incidence of dystocia in Dorset Horn ewes.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1016153PubMed |

Goff JP (1989) Calcium homeostasis challenged during lactation. Feedstuffs 61, 14–16.

Goff JP (2000) Pathophysiology of calcium and phosphorus disorders. The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Food Animal Practice 16, 319–337.
Pathophysiology of calcium and phosphorus disorders.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 11022343PubMed |

Goff JP (2006) Macromineral physiology and application to the feeding of the dairy cow for prevention of milk fever and other periparturient mineral disorders. Animal Feed Science and Technology 126, 237–257.
Macromineral physiology and application to the feeding of the dairy cow for prevention of milk fever and other periparturient mineral disorders.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Goff JP, Horst RL (1997a) Effects of the addition of potassium or sodium, but not calcium, to prepartum rations on milk fever in dairy cows. Journal of Dairy Science 80, 176–186.
Effects of the addition of potassium or sodium, but not calcium, to prepartum rations on milk fever in dairy cows.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 9120088PubMed |

Goff JP, Horst RL (1997b) Physiological changes at parturition and their relationship to metabolic disorders. Journal of Dairy Science 80, 1260–1268.
Physiological changes at parturition and their relationship to metabolic disorders.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 9241588PubMed |

Goff JP, Horst RL (1998) Use of hydrochloric acid as a source of anions for prevention of milk fever. Journal of Dairy Science 81, 2874–2880.
Use of hydrochloric acid as a source of anions for prevention of milk fever.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 9839229PubMed |

Gordon AM (1989) Molecular basis of contraction. In ‘Textbook of physiology: excitable cells and neurophysiology’. (Eds HD Patton, AF Fuchs, B Hille) pp. 177–178. (W.B. Saunders Co.: Philadelphia, PA, USA)

Goubern M, Rayssiguier Y, Miroux B, Chapey M, Ricquier D, Durlach J (1993) Effect of acute magnesium deficiency on the masking and unmasking of the proton channel of the uncoupling protein in rat brown fat. Magnesium Research 6, 135–143.

Grant IM, Foot JZ, Brockus MA, Bingham AM, Caple IW (1988) Factors affecting plasma calcium and phosphorus concentrations in grazing ewes in spring and autumn lambing flocks in Victoria. Proceedings of the Australian Society of Animal Production 17, 194–197.

Greene L, Webb K, Fontenot J (1983a) Effect of potassium level on site of absorption of magnesium and other macroelements in sheep. Journal of Animal Science 56, 1214–1221.
Effect of potassium level on site of absorption of magnesium and other macroelements in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6863167PubMed |

Greene LW, Fontenot JP, Webb KE (1983b) Effect of dietary potassium on absorption of magnesium and other macroelements in sheep fed different levels of magnesium. Journal of Animal Science 56, 1208–1213.
Effect of dietary potassium on absorption of magnesium and other macroelements in sheep fed different levels of magnesium.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6863166PubMed |

Greene LW, Fontenot JP, Webb KE (1983c) Site of magnesium and other macromineral absorption in steers fed high levels of potassium. Journal of Animal Science 57, 503–510.
Site of magnesium and other macromineral absorption in steers fed high levels of potassium.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6619018PubMed |

Grings EE, Male JR (1987) Effects of potassium on macromineral absorption in sheep fed wheat straw-based diets. Journal of Animal Science 64, 872–879.
Effects of potassium on macromineral absorption in sheep fed wheat straw-based diets.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 3571009PubMed |

Grohn YT, Fubini SL, Smith DF (1990) Use of a multiple logistic regression model to determine prognosis of dairy cows with right displacement of the abomasum or abomasal volvulus. American Journal of Veterinary Research 51, 1895–1899.

Hansard S, Comar C, Plumlee M (1954) The effects of age upon calcium utilisation and maintenance requirements in the bovine. Journal of Animal Science 13, 25–36.
The effects of age upon calcium utilisation and maintenance requirements in the bovine.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Harris DJ, Lambell RG, Oliver CJ (1983) Factors predisposing dairy and beef cows to grass tetany. Australian Veterinary Journal 60, 230–234.
Factors predisposing dairy and beef cows to grass tetany.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6639526PubMed |

Hartley WJ, Kater JC (1964) Perinatal disease conditions of sheep in New Zealand. New Zealand Veterinary Journal 12, 49–57.
Perinatal disease conditions of sheep in New Zealand.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Haughey KG (1980) The role of birth in the pathogenesis of meningeal haemorrhage and congestion in newborn lambs. Australian Veterinary Journal 56, 49–56.
The role of birth in the pathogenesis of meningeal haemorrhage and congestion in newborn lambs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 7436889PubMed |

Haughey KG (1991) Perinatal lamb mortality: its investigation, causes and control. Journal of the South African Veterinary Association 62, 78–91.

Hay WW, Sparks JW, Gilbert M, Battaglia FC, Meschia G (1984) Effect of insulin on glucose uptake by the maternal hindlimb and uterus, and by the fetus in conscious pregnant sheep. The Journal of Endocrinology 100, 119–124.
Effect of insulin on glucose uptake by the maternal hindlimb and uterus, and by the fetus in conscious pregnant sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6361193PubMed |

Henze P, Bickhardt K, Fuhrmann H, Sallmann H (1998) Spontaneous pregnancy toxaemia (ketosis) in sheep and the role of insulin. Journal of Veterinary Medicine Series A 45, 255–266.
Spontaneous pregnancy toxaemia (ketosis) in sheep and the role of insulin.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 9719756PubMed |

Herd RP (1965) The relationship between hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia in sheep. Australian Veterinary Journal 41, 385–386.
The relationship between hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 5892955PubMed |

Herd RP (1966a) Fasting in relation to hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia in lactating cows and ewes. Australian Veterinary Journal 42, 269–272.
Fasting in relation to hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia in lactating cows and ewes.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6007939PubMed |

Herd RP (1966b) Grass tetany in sheep. Australian Veterinary Journal 42, 160–164.
Grass tetany in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6005909PubMed |

Hinch G, Brien F (2014) Lamb survival in Australian flocks: a review. Animal Production Science 54, 656–666.
Lamb survival in Australian flocks: a review.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Hindson JC (1961) Ringwomb in the ewe. The Veterinary Record 73, 85–86.

Hocking Edwards JE, Masters DG, Winslow E, Hancock S, Thompson AN, Refshauge G, McGrath SR, Robertson SM, Bhangugopan MS, Friend MA (2018) Calcium and magnesium status of pregnant ewes grazing southern Australian pastures. Animal Production Science 58, 1515–1521.
Calcium and magnesium status of pregnant ewes grazing southern Australian pastures.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Hogan JS, Weiss WP, Smith KL (1993) Role of vitamin E and selenium in host defense against mastitis. Journal of Dairy Science 76, 2795–2803.
Role of vitamin E and selenium in host defense against mastitis.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 8227683PubMed |

Holst P, Fogarty N, Stanley D (2002) Birth weights, meningeal lesions, and survival of diverse genotypes of lambs from Merino and crossbred ewes. Crop and Pasture Science 53, 175–181.

Holst PJ (2004) ‘Lamb autopsy: notes on a procedure for determining cause of death.’ pp. 4–24. NSW Agriculture, Orange, NSW, Australia.

Horst RL, Reinhardt TA (1983) Vitamin D Metabolism in ruminants and its relevance to the periparturient cow. Journal of Dairy Science 66, 661–678.

Hou WX, Cheng SY, Liu ST, Shi BM, Shan AS (2014) Dietary supplementation of magnesium sulfate during late gestation and lactation affects the milk composition and immunoglobulin levels in sows. Asian-Australasian Journal of Animal Sciences 27, 1469–1477.
Dietary supplementation of magnesium sulfate during late gestation and lactation affects the milk composition and immunoglobulin levels in sows.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 25178299PubMed |

Hove K (1978) Insulin secretion in lactating cows: responses to glucose infused intravenously in normal, ketonemic, and starved animals. Journal of Dairy Science 61, 1407–1413.
Insulin secretion in lactating cows: responses to glucose infused intravenously in normal, ketonemic, and starved animals.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 361768PubMed |

Huber TL, Wilson RC, Stattelman AJ, Goetsch DD (1981) Effect of hypocalcaemia on motility of the ruminant stomach. American Journal of Veterinary Research 42, 1488–1490.

Ishizuka J, Bold RJ, Townsend C, Thompson J (1994) In vitro relationship between magnesium and insulin secretion. Magnesium Research: Official Organ of the International Society for the Development of Research on Magnesium 7, 17–22.

Jableck CK (1993) Disorders of neuromuscular transmission and muscles. In ‘Clinical electromyography’. (Eds WF Brown, CF Bolton) pp. 677–678. (Butterworth-Heinemann: Boston, MA, USA)

Jacobs JL, Rigby SE (1999) ‘Minerals in dairy pastures in Victoria.’ (Department of Natural Resources and Environment: Warrnambool, Vic., Australia)

Jawor P, Huzzey J, LeBlanc S, von Keyserlingk M (2012) Associations of subclinical hypocalcemia at calving with milk yield, and feeding, drinking, and standing behaviors around parturition in Holstein cows. Journal of Dairy Science 95, 1240–1248.
Associations of subclinical hypocalcemia at calving with milk yield, and feeding, drinking, and standing behaviors around parturition in Holstein cows.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 22365207PubMed |

Jefferson PG, Mayland HF, Asay KH, Berdahl JD (2001) Variation in mineral concentration and grass tetany potential among Russian wildrye accessions. Crop Science 41, 543–548.
Variation in mineral concentration and grass tetany potential among Russian wildrye accessions.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Jittakhot S, Schonewille J, Wouterse H, Yuangklang C, Beynen A (2004) The relationships between potassium intakes, transmural potential difference of the rumen epithelium and magnesium absorption in wethers. British Journal of Nutrition 91, 183–189.
The relationships between potassium intakes, transmural potential difference of the rumen epithelium and magnesium absorption in wethers.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 14756903PubMed |

Jolley LC, Leaver DD (1974) Grass tetany: the mineral and species status of sixteen pastures in north-eastern Victoria and southern New South Wales. Australian Veterinary Journal 50, 98–104.
Grass tetany: the mineral and species status of sixteen pastures in north-eastern Victoria and southern New South Wales.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 4852185PubMed |

Joyce JP, Brunswick LCF (1975) Sodium supplementation of sheep and cattle fed lucerne. New Zealand Journal of Experimental Agriculture 3, 299–304.
Sodium supplementation of sheep and cattle fed lucerne.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Judson GJ, McFarlane JD (1998) Mineral disorders in grazing livestock and the usefulness of soil and plant analysis in the assessment of these disorders. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 38, 707–723.
Mineral disorders in grazing livestock and the usefulness of soil and plant analysis in the assessment of these disorders.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Kelly RW (1992) Lamb mortality and growth to weaning in commercial Merino flocks in Western Australia. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 43, 1399–1416.
Lamb mortality and growth to weaning in commercial Merino flocks in Western Australia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Kemp A (1960) Hypomagnesaemia in milking cows: the response of serum magnesium to alterations in herbage composition resulting from potash and nitrogen dressings on pasture. Netherlands Journal of Agricultural Science 8, 281–304.

Kemp A, ‘t Hart J (1957) Grass tetany in grazing milking cows. Netherlands Journal of Agricultural Science 5, 4–17.

Khorasani GR, Armstrong DG (1990) Effect of sodium and potassium level on the absorption of magnesium and other macrominerals in sheep. Livestock Production Science 24, 223–235.
Effect of sodium and potassium level on the absorption of magnesium and other macrominerals in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Kimura J (1989) ‘Neuromuscular diseases characterized by abnormal muscle activity: electrodiagnosis in diseases of nerve and muscle. Principles and practice.’ (F.A. Davis Co.: Philadelphia, PA, USA)

Kimura K, Reinhardt T, Goff J (2006) Parturition and hypocalcemia blunts calcium signals in immune cells of dairy cattle. Journal of Dairy Science 89, 2588–2595.
Parturition and hypocalcemia blunts calcium signals in immune cells of dairy cattle.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 16772578PubMed |

Kleemann DO, Walker SK (2005) Fertility in South Australian commercial Merino flocks: sources of reproductive wastage. Theriogenology 63, 2075–2088.
Fertility in South Australian commercial Merino flocks: sources of reproductive wastage.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 15826674PubMed |

Kozakai T, Uozumi N, Katoh K, Obara Y (2002) Dietary magnesium increases calcium absorption of ovine small intestine in vivo and in vitro. Reproduction, Nutrition, Development 42, 25–33.
Dietary magnesium increases calcium absorption of ovine small intestine in vivo and in vitro.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 12199373PubMed |

Laires M, Monteiro C (2008) Exercise, magnesium and immune function. Magnesium Research 21, 92–96.

Lane J, Jubb T, Shephard R, Webb-Ware J, Fordyce G (2015) Priority list of endemic diseases for the red meat industries. Final Report B.AHE.0010. Meat & Livestock Australia: Sydney, NSW, Australia.

Larsen JWA, Constable PD, Napthine DV (1986) Hypocalcaemia in ewes after a drought. Australian Veterinary Journal 63, 25–26.
Hypocalcaemia in ewes after a drought.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Las JE, Odongo NE, Lindinger MI, Aizahal O, Shoveller AK, Matthews JC, McBride BW (2007) Effects of dietary strong acid anion challenge on regulation of acid–base balance in sheep. Journal of Animal Science 85, 2222–2229.
Effects of dietary strong acid anion challenge on regulation of acid–base balance in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 17504956PubMed |

Leclercq-Meyer V, Marchand J, Malaisse W (1973) The effect of calcium and magnesium on glucagon secretion. Endocrinology 93, 1360–1370.
The effect of calcium and magnesium on glucagon secretion.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 4752886PubMed |

Lentz D, Madsen F, Miller J, Hansard S (1976) Effect of potassium and hypomagnesemia on insulin in the bovine. Journal of Animal Science 43, 1082–1087.
Effect of potassium and hypomagnesemia on insulin in the bovine.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 977509PubMed |

Liu S, Masters D, Ferguson M, Thompson A (2014) Vitamin E status and reproduction in sheep: potential implications for Australian sheep production. Animal Production Science 54, 694–714.
Vitamin E status and reproduction in sheep: potential implications for Australian sheep production.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Madsen F, Lentz D, Miller J, Hansard S (1976) Effect of glucagon infusion on plasma magnesium, glucose, and insulin in bull calves. Journal of Dairy Science 59, 1599–1602.
Effect of glucagon infusion on plasma magnesium, glucose, and insulin in bull calves.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 965539PubMed |

Majeed AF, Taha MB (1989) Preliminary study on treatment of ringwomb in Iraqi goats. Animal Reproduction Science 18, 199–203.
Preliminary study on treatment of ringwomb in Iraqi goats.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Marret S, Doyle LW, Crowther CA, Middleton P (2007) Antenatal magnesium sulphate neuroprotection in the preterm infant. Seminars in Fetal & Neonatal Medicine 12, 311–317.
Antenatal magnesium sulphate neuroprotection in the preterm infant.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Martens H, Schweigel M (2000) Pathophysiology of grass tetany and other hypomagnesemias: implications for clinical management. The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Food Animal Practice 16, 339–368.
Pathophysiology of grass tetany and other hypomagnesemias: implications for clinical management.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 11022344PubMed |

Martinez N, Risco CA, Lima FS, Bisinotto RS, Greco LF, Ribeiro ES, Maunsell F, Galvão K, Santos JEP (2012) Evaluation of peripartal calcium status, energetic profile, and neutrophil function in dairy cows at low or high risk of developing uterine disease. Journal of Dairy Science 95, 7158–7172.
Evaluation of peripartal calcium status, energetic profile, and neutrophil function in dairy cows at low or high risk of developing uterine disease.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 23021755PubMed |

Masters DG, Fels HE (1980) Effect of zinc supplementation on the reproductive performance of grazing Merino ewes. Biological Trace Element Research 2, 281–290.
Effect of zinc supplementation on the reproductive performance of grazing Merino ewes.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 24271407PubMed |

Masters DG, Thompson AN (2016) Grazing crops: implications for reproducing sheep. Animal Production Science 56, 655–668.
Grazing crops: implications for reproducing sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Masters DG, Hancock S, Refshauge G, Robertson SM, McGrath S, Bhanugopan M, Friend MA, Thompson AN (2019) Mineral supplements improve the calcium status of pregnant ewes grazing vegetative cereals. Animal Production Science 59, 1299–1309.
Mineral supplements improve the calcium status of pregnant ewes grazing vegetative cereals.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Matsunobu S, Terashima Y, Senshu T, Sano H, Itoh H (1990) Insulin secretion and glucose uptake in hypomagnesemic sheep fed a low magnesium, high potassium diet. The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry 1, 167–171.
Insulin secretion and glucose uptake in hypomagnesemic sheep fed a low magnesium, high potassium diet.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 15539200PubMed |

Mavrogianni VS, Brozos C (2008) Reflections on the causes and the diagnosis of peri-parturient losses of ewes. Small Ruminant Research 76, 77–82.
Reflections on the causes and the diagnosis of peri-parturient losses of ewes.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Mayer GP, Ramberg CF, Kronfeld DS, Buckle R, Sherwood L, Aurbach G, Potts J (1969) Plasma parathyroid hormone concentration in hypocalcemic parturient cows. American Journal of Veterinary Research 30, 1587–1597.

Mayland H (1988) Grass tetany. In ‘The ruminant animal, digestive physiology and nutrition’. (Ed. DC Church) pp. 511–531. (Prentice Hall: Englewood Cliffs, NJ, USA)

Mayland H, Grunes D (1974) Magnesium concentration in Agropyron desertorum fertilized with Mg and N 1. Agronomy Journal 66, 79–82.
Magnesium concentration in Agropyron desertorum fertilized with Mg and N 1.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Mayland HF, Grunes DL, Lazar VA (1976) Grass tetany hazard of cereal forages based on chemical composition. Agronomy Journal 68, 665–667.
Grass tetany hazard of cereal forages based on chemical composition.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

McCance I, Alexander G (1959) The onset of lactation in the Merino ewe and its modification by nutritional means. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 10, 699–719.
The onset of lactation in the Merino ewe and its modification by nutritional means.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

McCoy MA, Bingham V, Hudson AJ, Cantley L, Hutchinson T, Davison G, Kennedy DG, Fitzpatrick DA (2001) Postmortem biochemical markers of experimentally induced hypomagnesaemic tetany in sheep. The Veterinary Record 148, 233–237.
Postmortem biochemical markers of experimentally induced hypomagnesaemic tetany in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 11289550PubMed |

McDonald P, Edwards RA, Greenhalgh JFD, Morgan CA, Sinclair LA, Wilkinson RG (2011) ‘Animal nutrition.’ (Pearson Education Ltd: Harlow, Essex, UK)

McFadzean I, Gibson A (2002) The developing relationship between receptor-operated and store-operated calcium channels in smooth muscle. British Journal of Pharmacology 135, 1–13.
The developing relationship between receptor-operated and store-operated calcium channels in smooth muscle.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 11786473PubMed |

McGarry J, Wright P, Foster D (1975) Hormonal control of ketogenesis. Rapid activation of hepatic ketogenic capacity in fed rats by anti-insulin serum and glucagon. Journal of Clinical Investigation 55, 1202–1209.
Hormonal control of ketogenesis. Rapid activation of hepatic ketogenic capacity in fed rats by anti-insulin serum and glucagon.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1133169PubMed |

McGrath SR, Bhanugopan MS, Dove H, Clayton EH, Virgona JM, Friend MA (2015) Mineral supplementation of lambing ewes grazing dual-purpose wheat. Animal Production Science 55, 526–534.
Mineral supplementation of lambing ewes grazing dual-purpose wheat.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

McGrath SR, Lievaart JJ, Friend MA (2013) Extent of utilisation of dual-purpose wheat for grazing by late-pregnant and lambing ewes and producer-reported incidence of health issues in southern New South Wales. Australian Veterinary Journal 91, 432–436.
Extent of utilisation of dual-purpose wheat for grazing by late-pregnant and lambing ewes and producer-reported incidence of health issues in southern New South Wales.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 30049054PubMed |

McHugh N, Berry DP, Pabiou T (2016) Risk factors associated with lambing traits. Animal 10, 89–95.
Risk factors associated with lambing traits.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 26264450PubMed |

McNeill DM, Kelly RW, Williams IH (1997) Insulin sensitivity and fetal growth in ewes maintained in a moderate body condition compared with a lean body condition in late pregnancy. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 48, 753–758.
Insulin sensitivity and fetal growth in ewes maintained in a moderate body condition compared with a lean body condition in late pregnancy.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

McNeill DM, Roche JR, Stockdale CR, McLachlan BP (2002) Nutritional strategies for the prevention of hypocalcaemia at calving for dairy cows in pasture-based systems. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 53, 755–770.
Nutritional strategies for the prevention of hypocalcaemia at calving for dairy cows in pasture-based systems.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

McSporran KD (1975) Some aspects of dystocia in sheep with particular reference to Romney stud ewes. PhD Thesis, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.

McSporran KD, Fielden ED (1979) Studies on dystocia in sheep II: pelvic measurements of ewes with histories of dystocia and eutocia. New Zealand Veterinary Journal 27, 75–78.
Studies on dystocia in sheep II: pelvic measurements of ewes with histories of dystocia and eutocia.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 292902PubMed |

Miller J, Madsen F, Lentz D, Wong W-O, Ramsey N, Tysinger C, Hansard S (1980) Blood plasma magnesium, potassium, glucose, and immunoreactive insulin changes in cows moved abruptly from barn feeding to early spring pasture. Journal of Dairy Science 63, 1073–1079.
Blood plasma magnesium, potassium, glucose, and immunoreactive insulin changes in cows moved abruptly from barn feeding to early spring pasture.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6999040PubMed |

Minson DJ (1990) ‘Forage in ruminant nutrition.’ (Academic Press, San Diego, CA)

Morgan JE, Fogarty NM, Nielsen S, Gilmour AR (2007) The relationship of lamb growth from birth to weaning and the milk production of their primiparous crossbred dams. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 47, 899–904.
The relationship of lamb growth from birth to weaning and the milk production of their primiparous crossbred dams.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Moule GR (1961) The fertility of sheep grazing oestrogenic pastures. Australian Veterinary Journal 37, 109–114.
The fertility of sheep grazing oestrogenic pastures.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Mulligan FO, Grady L, Rice D, Doherty M (2006) Production diseases of the transition cow: milk fever and subclinical hypocalcaemia. Irish Veterinary Journal 59, 697–702.

National Research Council (2005) ‘Mineral tolerance of animals.’ (The National Academies Press: Washington, DC)

Newton GL, Tucker RE, Fontenot JP, Polan CE (1972) Effects of high dietary potassium intake on metabolism of magnesium by sheep. Journal of Animal Science 35, 440–445.
Effects of high dietary potassium intake on metabolism of magnesium by sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 5055763PubMed |

Nicholls DG, Locke RM (1984) Thermogenic mechanisms in brown fat. Physiological Reviews 64, 1–64.
Thermogenic mechanisms in brown fat.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6320232PubMed |

Nosdøl G, Waage S (1981) Hypocalcaemia in the ewe. Nordisk Veterinaermedicin 33, 310–326.

Nowak R, Poindron P (2006) From birth to colostrum: early steps leading to lamb survival. Reproduction, Nutrition, Development 46, 431–446.
From birth to colostrum: early steps leading to lamb survival.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 16824451PubMed |

Oetzel G, Olson J, Curtis C, Fettman M (1988) Ammonium chloride and ammonium sulfate for prevention of parturient paresis in dairy cows. Journal of Dairy Science 71, 3302–3309.
Ammonium chloride and ammonium sulfate for prevention of parturient paresis in dairy cows.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 3235732PubMed |

Oldham CM, Thompson AN, Ferguson MB, Gordon DJ, Kearney GA, Paganoni BL (2011) The birthweight and survival of Merino lambs can be predicted from the profile of liveweight change of their mothers during pregnancy. Animal Production Science 51, 776–783.
The birthweight and survival of Merino lambs can be predicted from the profile of liveweight change of their mothers during pregnancy.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Paganoni B, Ferguson M, Kearney G, Thompson A (2014) Increasing weight gain during pregnancy results in similar increases in lamb birthweights and weaning weights in Merino and non-Merino ewes regardless of sire type. Animal Production Science 54, 727–735.
Increasing weight gain during pregnancy results in similar increases in lamb birthweights and weaning weights in Merino and non-Merino ewes regardless of sire type.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Paynter DI (1996) Diagnosis of mineral deficiencies. In ‘Detection and treatment of mineral disorders in grazing sheep’. (Eds DG Masters, CL White) pp. 45–56. (Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research: Canberra, ACT, Australia)

Pethick D, Harper G, Dunshea F (2005) Fat metabolism and turnover. In ‘Quantitative aspects of ruminant digestion and metabolism’. (Eds J Dijkstra, JM Forbes) pp. 345–371. (CAB International: Wallingford, UK)

Petterson J, Dunshea F, Ehrhardt R, Bell A (1993) Pregnancy and undernutrition alter glucose metabolic responses to insulin in sheep. The Journal of Nutrition 123, 1286–1295.
Pregnancy and undernutrition alter glucose metabolic responses to insulin in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 8320567PubMed |

Phillips WA, Horn GW (2008) Intake and digestion of wheat forage by stocker calves and lambs. Journal of Animal Science 86, 2424–2429.
Intake and digestion of wheat forage by stocker calves and lambs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 18441083PubMed |

Phillips C, Mohamed M, Chiy P (2006) The critical dietary potassium concentration for induction of mineral disorders in non-lactating Welsh Mountain sheep. Small Ruminant Research 63, 32–38.
The critical dietary potassium concentration for induction of mineral disorders in non-lactating Welsh Mountain sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Plush KJ, Brien FD, van Wettere WHEJ, Hynd PI (2016) Preparing the neonate for the transition from intra-uterine to extra-uterine life. In ‘Proceedings of the 31st biennial conference of the Australian Society of Animal Production ref. no. 1415’. Available at http://www.asap.asn.au/wp-content/uploads/abstract-2015/302/attach_brief.pdf [Verified 4 July 2018]

Pramme-Steinwachs I, Jastroch M, Ussar S (2017) Extracellular calcium modulates brown adipocyte differentiation and identity. Scientific Reports 7, 8888
Extracellular calcium modulates brown adipocyte differentiation and identity.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 28827782PubMed |

Ram L, Schonewille JT, Martens H, Van’t Klooster AT, Beynen AC (1998) Magnesium absorption by wethers fed potassium bicarbonate in combination with different dietary magnesium concentrations. Journal of Dairy Science 81, 2485–2492.
Magnesium absorption by wethers fed potassium bicarbonate in combination with different dietary magnesium concentrations.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 9785240PubMed |

Rayssiguier Y (1977) Hypomagnesemia resulting from adrenaline infusion in ewes: its relation to lipolysis. Hormone and Metabolic Research 9, 309–314.
Hypomagnesemia resulting from adrenaline infusion in ewes: its relation to lipolysis.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 892696PubMed |

Reeve J, Sharkey M (1980) Effect of stocking rate, time of lambing and inclusion of lucerne on prime lamb production in north-east Victoria. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 20, 637–653.
Effect of stocking rate, time of lambing and inclusion of lucerne on prime lamb production in north-east Victoria.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Refshauge G, Brien FD, Hinch GN, van de Ven R (2016) Neonatal lamb mortality: factors associated with the death of Australian lambs. Animal Production Science 56, 726–735.
Neonatal lamb mortality: factors associated with the death of Australian lambs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Reinhardt TA, Lippolis JD, McCluskey BJ, Goff JP, Horst RL (2011) Prevalence of subclinical hypocalcemia in dairy herds. Veterinary Journal (London, England) 188, 122–124.
Prevalence of subclinical hypocalcemia in dairy herds.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Risco CA, Reynolds JP, Hird D (1984) Uterine prolapse and hypocalcemia in dairy cows. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 185, 1517–1519.

Robalo Silva R, Noakes D (1984) The effect of experimentally induced hypocalcaemia on uterine activity at parturition in the ewe. Theriogenology 21, 607–623.
The effect of experimentally induced hypocalcaemia on uterine activity at parturition in the ewe.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Robinson JJ, Rooke JA, McEvoy TG (2002) Nutrition for conception and pregnancy. In ‘Sheep nutrition’. (Eds M Freer, H Dove) pp. 189–211. (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne, Vic., Australia)

Roche J, Dalley D, Moate P, Grainger C, Rath M, O’Mara F (2003) Dietary cation–anion difference and the health and production of pasture-fed dairy cows 2. Nonlactating periparturient cows. Journal of Dairy Science 86, 979–987.
Dietary cation–anion difference and the health and production of pasture-fed dairy cows 2. Nonlactating periparturient cows.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 12703635PubMed |

Romani A, Scarpa A (1990) Hormonal control of Mg2+ transport in the heart. Nature 346, 841–844.
Hormonal control of Mg2+ transport in the heart.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 2168019PubMed |

Sano H, Matsunobu S, Abe T, Terashima Y (1992) Combined effects of diet and cold exposure on insulin responsiveness to glucose and tissue responsiveness to insulin in sheep. Journal of Animal Science 70, 3514–3520.

Sansom BF, Bunch KJ, Dew SM (1982) Changes in plasma calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and hydroxyproline concentrations in ewes from twelve weeks before until three weeks after lambing. The British Veterinary Journal 138, 393–401.
Changes in plasma calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and hydroxyproline concentrations in ewes from twelve weeks before until three weeks after lambing.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 7127061PubMed |

Sargison N (2009) ‘Sheep flock health: a planned approach.’ (Wiley: Chicester, UK)

Schachter D, Dowdle EB, Schenker H (1960) Accumulation of Ca-45 by slices of the small intestine. The American Journal of Physiology 198, 275–279.
Accumulation of Ca-45 by slices of the small intestine.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 14442282PubMed |

Schlumbohm C, Harmeyer J (2003) Hypocalcemia reduces endogenous glucose production in hyperketonemic sheep. Journal of Dairy Science 86, 1953–1962.
Hypocalcemia reduces endogenous glucose production in hyperketonemic sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 12836930PubMed |

Schneider KM, Parkinson GB, Houston JC, Leaver DD (1985) 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 increases plasma magnesium and calcium in sheep fed liquid diets low in calcium and magnesium. Australian Veterinary Journal 62, 82–85.
1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 increases plasma magnesium and calcium in sheep fed liquid diets low in calcium and magnesium.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 3839393PubMed |

Schonewille JT (2013) Magnesium in dairy cow nutrition: an overview. Plant and Soil 368, 167–178.
Magnesium in dairy cow nutrition: an overview.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Schonewille JT, Beynen AC, Klooster ATVt, Wouterse H, Ram L (1999a) Dietary potassium bicarbonate and potassium citrate have a greater inhibitory effect than does potassium chloride on magnesium absorption in wethers. Journal of Nutrition 129, 2043–2047.
Dietary potassium bicarbonate and potassium citrate have a greater inhibitory effect than does potassium chloride on magnesium absorption in wethers.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 10539782PubMed |

Schonewille JT, Van’t Klooster AT, Wouterse H, Beynen A (1999b) Hypocalcemia induced by intravenous administration of disodium ethylenediaminotetraacetate and its effects on excretion of calcium in urine of cows fed a high chloride diet. Journal of Dairy Science 82, 1317–1324.
Hypocalcemia induced by intravenous administration of disodium ethylenediaminotetraacetate and its effects on excretion of calcium in urine of cows fed a high chloride diet.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 10386318PubMed |

Schreurs NM, Kenyon PR, Mulvaney FJ, Morel PCH, West DM, Morris ST (2010) Effect of birthweight and birth rank on the survival of single and twin lambs born to ewe lambs. Animal Production Science 50, 460–464.
Effect of birthweight and birth rank on the survival of single and twin lambs born to ewe lambs.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Schuster NH, Watts HJ, Webster ME, Campbell RW (1969) Experimental grass tetany in the ewe. Australian Veterinary Journal 45, 508–516.
Experimental grass tetany in the ewe.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 5393086PubMed |

Scott P (2013) Hypocalcaemia in ewes. Livestock (London) 18, 37–40.
Hypocalcaemia in ewes.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Seelig MS (1994) Consequences of magnesium deficiency on the enhancement of stress reactions; preventive and therapeutic implications (a review). Journal of the American College of Nutrition 13, 429–446.
Consequences of magnesium deficiency on the enhancement of stress reactions; preventive and therapeutic implications (a review).Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 7836621PubMed |

Sentinel Flock Project DEPI (2012) Sentinel flock project. Victorian Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Melbourne.

Smith GM (1977) Factors affecting birth weight, dystocia and preweaning survival in sheep. Journal of Animal Science 44, 745–753.
Factors affecting birth weight, dystocia and preweaning survival in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 558970PubMed |

Smith C, Wagner P (1985) Electrolyte imbalances and metabolic disturbances in endurance horses. Compendium on Continuing Education for the Practising Veterinarian (USA) 7, 575–585.

Smith BSW, Wright H (1984) Relative contibutions of diet and sunshine to the overall vitamin D status of the grazing ewe. The Veterinary Record 115, 537–538.
Relative contibutions of diet and sunshine to the overall vitamin D status of the grazing ewe.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Smith KF, Rebetzke GJ, Eagles HA, Anderson MW, Easton HS (1999) Genetic control of mineral concentration and yield in perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), with special emphasis on minerals related to grass tetany. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research 50, 79–86.
Genetic control of mineral concentration and yield in perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), with special emphasis on minerals related to grass tetany.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Snowder GD, Glimp HA (1991) Influence of breed, number of suckling lambs, and stage of lactation on ewe milk production and lamb growth under range conditions. Journal of Animal Science 69, 923–930.
Influence of breed, number of suckling lambs, and stage of lactation on ewe milk production and lamb growth under range conditions.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 2061262PubMed |

Sobiraj A, Busse G, Gips H, Bostedt H (1986) Investigations into the blood plasma profiles of electrolytes, 17 β-oestradiol and progesterone in sheep suffering from vaginal inversion and prolapse ante partum. The British Veterinary Journal 142, 218–223.
Investigations into the blood plasma profiles of electrolytes, 17 β-oestradiol and progesterone in sheep suffering from vaginal inversion and prolapse ante partum.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 3594151PubMed |

Stevens D, Alexander G, Bell AW (1990) Effect of prolonged glucose infusion into fetal sheep on body growth, fat deposition and gestation length. Journal of Developmental Physiology 13, 277–281.

Stewart PA (1983) Modern quantitative acid–base chemistry. Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology 61, 1444–1461.
Modern quantitative acid–base chemistry.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6423247PubMed |

Stubbings D (1971) Observations on serum calcium levels in ewes in North Lincolnshire in relation to prolapse of the vagina and incomplete cervical dilatation. The Veterinary Record 89, 296–300.
Observations on serum calcium levels in ewes in North Lincolnshire in relation to prolapse of the vagina and incomplete cervical dilatation.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 5107137PubMed |

Suki WN, Massry SG (2012) ‘Therapy of renal diseases and related disorders.’ (Springer Science and Business Media: New York, NY, USA)

Suttle NF (2010) ‘Mineral nutrition of livestock.’ (CAB International: Wallingford, UK)

Suttle NF, Field AC (1969) Studies on magnesium in ruminant nutrition. British Journal of Nutrition 23, 81–90.
Studies on magnesium in ruminant nutrition.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 5812868PubMed |

Swerczek TW (2008) Nitrate toxicity, sodium deficiency and the grass tetany syndrome. The Growers Solution 21, 3. Available at www.growersmineral.com [Verified 1 March 2010]

Sykes AR (2007) Deficiency of mineral macro-elements. In ‘Diseases of sheep’. 4th edn. (Ed. ID Aitken) (Blackwell Publishing: Oxford, UK)

Symonds ME (2013) Brown adipose tissue growth and development. Scientifica 2013, 305763
Brown adipose tissue growth and development.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 24278771PubMed |

Tabatabaei S, Nikbakht G, Vatankhah M, Sharifi H, Alidadi N (2013) Variation in colostral immunoglobulin G concentration in fat tailed sheep and evaluation of methods for estimation of colostral immunoglobulin content. Acta Veterinaria Brno 82, 271–275.
Variation in colostral immunoglobulin G concentration in fat tailed sheep and evaluation of methods for estimation of colostral immunoglobulin content.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Takagi H, Block E (1991) Effects of various dietary cation–anion balances on response to experimentally induced hypocalcemia in sheep. Journal of Dairy Science 74, 4215–4224.
Effects of various dietary cation–anion balances on response to experimentally induced hypocalcemia in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 1787192PubMed |

Terashima Y, Tucker RE, Deetz LE, Degregorio RM, Muntifering RB, Mitchell GE (1982) Plasma magnesium levels as influenced by cold exposure in fed or fasted sheep. The Journal of Nutrition 112, 1914–1920.
Plasma magnesium levels as influenced by cold exposure in fed or fasted sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6750054PubMed |

Terashima Y, Muzushima Y, Yamaoka R, Itoh H (1983) Effects of intravenous infusion of noradrenaline on plasma levels of Ca, inorganic P and Mg in sheep fed high or low calcium diet. Japanese Journal of Zootechnical Science (Japan) 54, 52–59.

Thompson JK, Reid RL (1981) Mineral status of beef cows and sheep on spring pasture fertilized with kieserite. Journal of Animal Science 52, 969–976.
Mineral status of beef cows and sheep on spring pasture fertilized with kieserite.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6263852PubMed |

Todd JR (1969) Magnesium metabolism in ruminants. Review of current knowledge. In ‘Trace mineral studies with isotopes in domestic animals’. pp. 131–140. (International Atomic Energy Agency: Vienna)

Treacher TT, Caja G (2002) Nutrition during lactation. In ‘Sheep nutrition’. (Eds M Freer, H Dove) pp. 213–236. (CAB International: Wallingford, UK)

Tribe RM (2001) Regulation of human myometrial contractility during pregnancy and labour: are calcium homeostatic pathways important? Experimental Physiology 86, 247–254.
Regulation of human myometrial contractility during pregnancy and labour: are calcium homeostatic pathways important?Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 11429641PubMed |

Underwood EJ, Suttle NF (1999) ‘The mineral nutrition of livestock.’ (CAB International: Wallingford, UK)

van Saun RV (2007) Puerperal nutrition and metabolic diseases. In ‘Current therapy in large animal theriogenology’. 2nd edn. (Eds RS Youngquist, WR Threlfall) pp. 562–572. (WB Saunders: Saint Louis, MO, USA)

Waage S, Wangensteen G (2013) Short-term and long-term outcomes of ewes and their offspring after elective cesarean section. Theriogenology 79, 486–494.
Short-term and long-term outcomes of ewes and their offspring after elective cesarean section.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 23218396PubMed |

Walsh G, Birrell H (1987) Seasonal variations in the chemical composition and nutritive value of five pasture species in south-western Victoria. Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 27, 807–816.
Seasonal variations in the chemical composition and nutritive value of five pasture species in south-western Victoria.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Weekes T, Sasaki Y, Tsuda T (1983) Enhanced responsiveness to insulin in sheep exposed to cold. American Journal of Physiology. Endocrinology and Metabolism 244, E335–E345.
Enhanced responsiveness to insulin in sheep exposed to cold.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Weston RH (2002) Constraints on feed intake by grazing sheep. In ‘Sheep nutrition’. (Eds M Freer, H Dove) pp. 27–49. (CSIRO Publishing: Melbourne, Vic., Australia)

Wilkens MR, Richter J, Fraser DR, Liesegang A, Breves G, Schröder B (2012) In contrast to sheep, goats adapt to dietary calcium restriction by increasing intestinal absorption of calcium. Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology. Part A, Molecular & Integrative Physiology 163, 396–406.
In contrast to sheep, goats adapt to dietary calcium restriction by increasing intestinal absorption of calcium.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Wilkens MR, Praechter C, Breves G, Schröder B (2016) Stimulating effects of a diet negative in dietary cation-anion difference on calcium absorption from the rumen in sheep. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition 100, 156–166.
Stimulating effects of a diet negative in dietary cation-anion difference on calcium absorption from the rumen in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 25643625PubMed |

Wollheim CB, Sharp GW (1981) Regulation of insulin release by calcium. Physiological Reviews 61, 914–973.
Regulation of insulin release by calcium.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 6117094PubMed |

Wylie MJ, Fontenot JP, Greene LW (1985) Absorption of magnesium and other macrominerals in sheep infused with potassium in different parts of the digestive tract. Journal of Animal Science 61, 1219–1229.
Absorption of magnesium and other macrominerals in sheep infused with potassium in different parts of the digestive tract.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 4077768PubMed |

Yang H, Nagoaka C, Kawashima R (1984) Effects of intravenous glucose or epinephrine injection on plasma concentrations of potassium, magnesium and insulin in sheep. Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology 30, 535–540.
Effects of intravenous glucose or epinephrine injection on plasma concentrations of potassium, magnesium and insulin in sheep.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar |

Zaborski D, Grzesiak W, Szatkowska I, Dybus A, Muszynska M, Jedrzejczak M (2009) Factors affecting dystocia in cattle. Reproduction in Domestic Animals 44, 540–551.
Factors affecting dystocia in cattle.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 19055561PubMed |

Zang J, Chen J, Tian J, Wang A, Liu H, Hu S, Che X, Ma Y, Wang J, Wang C, Du G, Ma X (2014) Effects of magnesium on the performance of sows and their piglets. Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology 5, 39
Effects of magnesium on the performance of sows and their piglets.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 25343026PubMed |

Zemel M (2004) Role of calcium and dairy products in energy partitioning and weight management. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 79, 907S–912S.
Role of calcium and dairy products in energy partitioning and weight management.Crossref | GoogleScholarGoogle Scholar | 15113738PubMed |