Cow Health: Copper deficiency

Copper (Cu) deficiency in cattle is a common and complex problem.

Dairy cows are most likely to be deficient in winter/early spring, coinciding with higher demands over this period for pregnancy and early lactation. Fast growing calves over six months of age are also likely to be deficient.

Symptoms of copper deficiency

In cows:

• Weight loss
• Scouring
• Reduced milk yields
• Reproductive problems
• Lightening of coat colour
• Anaemia

In calves:

• Poor growth rates
• Scouring
• Bone fractures
• Lightening of coat colour
• Loss of co-ordination in hind limbs.

Treatment

In general, early lactating dairy cows will not be getting sufficient copper from a pasture diet, therefore supplementation is likely to be beneficial.

• Two weeks should elapse after Zn treatment has finished, and animals that have Facial Eczema should not be treated for Cu due to risk of heavy metal poisoning.
• Be aware that Cu poisoning can occur as a result of excess intakes of Cu (drenches, licks and eating pasture recently fertilised with Cu additives)
• If in doubt consult your vet.

Further information

Copper deficiency in New Zealand in New Zealand dairy cattle - Farmfact (3-3)