This study investigated influence of dietary supplementation of vitamin A on the growth performance and mineral component of pregnant West African Dwarf ewes. Data were collected on body weight and feed intake, and blood samples were taken for mineral analysis. The results showed that all growth performance parameters measured were not (p>0.05) significantly influenced by the supplemented levels of vitamin A. However, the mineral component of the ewes was significantly affected, except for iron and calcium. Ewes fed diets containing 280,000IU vit A had the highest (113.33 ppm) zinc level, while those in the control group had the least (101.85 ppm). Magnesium was higher (2.85 ppm) in ewes fed 280,000IU vit A, with the least (0.65) observed in those fed 140,000IU vit A. Copper value ranges from the least (60.83 ppm) to the highest (71.68 ppm) observed in the ewes fed 280,000 and 140,000IU vit A, respectively. The study concluded that the supplemented vitamin A was involved more in physiological functions of the ewes in preparation for parturition so as to maintain the normal functioning of the immune system.
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