What deficiency causes muscle disease in sheep?

Selenium deficiency is recognized as a significant cause of muscle disease in sheep, particularly manifested as a condition known as white muscle disease. This condition occurs when sheep do not receive adequate selenium through their diet, which is vital for maintaining normal muscle function and preventing oxidative damage. Selenium is a critical component of the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which helps protect muscle tissues from injury due to free radicals.

When selenium levels are low, the muscle fibers can degenerate, leading to stiffness, weakness, and, in severe cases, the inability to stand or move, ultimately affecting the health and well-being of the sheep. It is particularly important in regions where soils are deficient in selenium, making supplementation necessary to support the dietary needs of the flock.

Other deficiencies, such as Vitamin A, iron, and calcium, do play critical roles in sheep health but are generally associated with different health issues and not specifically muscle disease. For example, Vitamin A deficiency can lead to issues like poor vision and immune dysfunction, iron deficiency commonly causes anemia, and calcium deficiency can result in problems such as milk fever in lactating ewes.