Sulfur (S) 0.2 – 0.32%
The major biological function of sulfur is as a component of sulfur-containing amino acids. Therefore, sulfur is important in protein synthesis, milk and hair production, enzymes, hormones, hemoglobin, and connective tissue, and is a component of the vitamins biotin and thiamine. The major deficiency symptoms include poor animal performance, hair loss, excessive salivation, tearing of eyes and weakness. The major source of sulfur is protein which contains sulfur as a component of some of the amino acids. Therefore, sulfur is important in diets where nonprotein nitrogen — for example, urea — is used to substitute for some protein. Sulfur-containing mineral blocks are often used for control of external parasites in goats. Excessive sulfur in high-concentrate diets can contribute to polioencephalomalacia.
Reference: Hart, S. 2008. Meat Goat Nutrition. Pages 58-83 in Proc. 23rd Ann. Goat Field Day, Langston University, Langston, OK.