Reported copper toxicity in cattle

Authors: Sommerville G, Burrough SM
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 33, Issue 3, pp 34-35, Mar 1985
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Cattle, Livestock, Production animal, Ruminant
Subject Terms: Copper, Trace elements, Poisoning - chemical, Toxicology
Article class: Correspondence

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Abstract: The acceptance that copper deficiency is widespread through New Zealand`s flocks and herds has led to the extensive use of copper supplementation. It is therefore not surprising that the extensive use of such a potentially toxic element has been followed by occasional reports of therapyrelated toxicity problems. This communication describes one such occurrence. Thirty-nine rising yearling dairy heifers were injected with 2 ml of Coprin Injection (Glaxo). The injection was done by the farmer who followed the procedure recommended at that time by firstly injecting three animals, and then, as there appeared to be no adverse effect after twenty minutes, treating the remaining 36 animals. After about two hours the cattle were returned to their paddock about half a kilometre away. After entering their paddock the cattle began to behave in a bizarre way. They tended to run backwards with headshaking; some extended their necks skywards and some lay down. They showed signs of thirst. Veterinary aid was not sought but the owner reported the incident which in turn the veterinarian reported to the Animal Remedies Board. No animals died…

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