What is the first limiting nutrient in an animal's diet?

Water is indeed considered the first limiting nutrient in an animal's diet because it is essential for survival and plays a crucial role in nearly every physiological process in the body. Without adequate water, animals cannot properly regulate their body temperature, transport nutrients, or eliminate waste. It's also vital for digestion and metabolic reactions.

In fact, animals can survive for longer periods without food than without water, illustrating water's critical importance. While carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are important energy sources and play structural roles in nutrition, if an animal is deprived of water, all these functions will be compromised, which can quickly lead to severe health issues and even death. This highlights why water is prioritized in dietary considerations for any animal, including sheep.