Cattle require salt for primary metabolism. Salt plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including maintaining the nervous system, blood regulation, and digestion.  This increases milk production in dairy cattle, and proper weight gain in beef cattle.   

For calves and other young livestock, salt is vital to early development.  Salt helps build strong bones, regulates heartbeat, promotes blood clotting, and facilitates muscle movement.  Calves with a salt deficiency have significantly lower weaning weights compared to calves with access to salt. 

Cattle and other livestock cannot store salt in their bodies.  Daily access to salt is important to maintain proper health.