The invention provides compositions and methods for preventing and
treating osteochondrosis, lameness, and leg weakness by administration of
supplemental boron and vitamin C containing compounds to animals and
humans. The supplemental boron and vitamin C containing compounds are
provided in animal feed compositions or as supplements for animal feed.
Also provided by this invention are animal feed compositions that are
supplemented with boron and vitamin C containing compounds and which have
reduced phosphorus content. The invention also provides a method for
decreasing the amount of phosphorus excreted by an animal, a method of
increasing the efficiency of absorption of phosphorus by an animal, a
method of reducing environmental phosphorus pollution by administering
supplemental boron and vitamin C to the animal. The invention also
provides a method of reducing pre-weaning mortality in an animal by
feeding pregnant, nursing or lactating animals by administering
supplemental boron and vitamin C containing compounds.