Manganese is an important trace mineral in animal nutrition. Manganese is an activator of enzyme systems in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, proteins and nucleic acids. Manganese deficiency in livestock impairs reproductive performance (delayed cycling, silent heats and reduced conception rates). Manganese deficiency in calves lead to skeletal deformities, enlarged joints and reduced birth weight. High calcium, phosphorus, iron  levels in rations predisposes manganese deficiency.

Manganese is also essential for normal brain function, and plays a role in collagen formation, bone growth, urea formation, synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol, protein digestion, eggshell formation, and the function of the immune system. Manganese is a cofactor in superoxide dismutase and required proper wound healing. Manganese is also reported to play a keyrole in scavenging free oxygen radicals.

Potassium functions in the intracellular fluids the same as Na does in the extracellular fluids.

The major functions of K in the animal body are to:

• maintain water balance
• maintain osmotic pressure
• maintain acid-base balance
• activate enzymes
• help metabolize carbohydrates and proteins
• regulate neuromuscular activity (along with Ca)