Copper Poisoning

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Etiology

Much more common in sheep. Dietary level in goats needs to be higher, similar to cattle. Can be poisoned by ingesting foot rot treatments which contain copper.

Symptoms

Dullness, abdominal pain, salivation, bluish-green feces, anorexia, dehydration, shock, fainting, jaundice, hemoglobinuria. By the time that symptoms develop, it may be too late to begin treatment.

Treatment

See your vet right away if you suspect copper poisoning. Special drugs are necessary for treatment.

Prevention

Goats can safely be given cattle trace mineral blocks which contain a moderate amount of copper. If fed sheep salt, goats may become deficient. Generally, the only danger of copper poisoning in goats is from incorrectly mixed special feeds or incorrectly used drugs which contain copper products.

Comments

If there is a feeling that an animal has died from copper poisoning (or deficiency), the liver can be tested by a lab if taken to or removed by your vet. P>