At 08:03 AM 4/15/2006, gene schreifer wrote:
>There is some on going research into using either a copper wire or copper
>bolus in the sheep's rumen and demonstrating a reduction in parasite
>numbers. The copper in these is not being absorbed by the sheep system and
>stored in the liver.
Actually, Gene, this copper IS absorbed, and will add to liver
stores. However, this work is being done with Copper oxide(CuO)
which is relatively poorly absorbed - depending on whose numbers you
believe, CuO is between 0-15% bioavailable, whereas Copper
sulfate(CuSO4) and the copper proteinates/copper lysine, etc. are
virtually 100% bioavailable.
So...for cattle and goats, the copper source in a mineral supplement
should be comprised of Copper sulfate or one of the more
expensive(though not necessarily more effective) copper proteinates.
Use of Copper Oxide Wire Particle (COWP) boluses is addressed, with
regard to its role in helping control Haemonchus contortus(barberpole
worm) in sheep and goats, in the linked article below:
http://www.scsrpc.org/SCSRPC/Files/Files/Misc/Producer%20publication.pdf
Louis L. "Lucky" Pittman, Jr., DVM
Veterinary Pathologist/ Dept. Chairman
Murray St. Univ.-Breathitt Veterinary Ctr.
Hopkinsville, KY
