What nutritional deficiency can lead to rickets in growing animals?

Rickets is a condition that primarily affects growing animals, leading to the softening and weakening of bones. This condition is most closely associated with a deficiency of vitamin D. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating calcium and phosphorus levels in the body, which are essential for healthy bone development. When there is insufficient vitamin D, the body is unable to properly absorb calcium and phosphorus from the diet, resulting in inadequate mineralization of bones.

In growing animals, adequate levels of these minerals are necessary for normal bone growth and strength. A deficiency in vitamin D disrupts this process, leading to the characteristic abnormalities seen in rickets, such as bowed legs, swollen joints, and a soft skull. Therefore, recognizing the importance of vitamin D in maintaining bone health is key to preventing rickets in young animals.