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Copper toxicosis in cattle fed chicken litter
M I Banton1, S S Nicholson, P L Jowett
1Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge 70893.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|October 1, 1987
Summary
Cattle developed copper toxicosis from eating chicken litter, a feedstuff with high copper levels. Treatment with sodium molybdate and sodium thiosulfate aided recovery in affected cows.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Nutrition
- Toxicology
Background:
- Copper toxicosis is a serious condition in cattle.
- Ingestion of contaminated feed, such as chicken litter, can lead to toxic levels of copper.
- Clinical signs include weakness, depression, anorexia, jaundice, and dark urine.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report cases of copper toxicosis in cattle due to chicken litter consumption.
- To identify the source and levels of copper in the feed.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of specific treatments.
Main Methods:
- Two cattle herds were monitored after ingesting chicken litter daily (9-16 kg/day).
- Clinical signs were observed, and liver copper concentrations were analyzed.
- Chicken litter samples were analyzed for copper content.
- Affected dairy cattle received sodium molybdate and sodium thiosulfate supplements.
Main Results:
- Affected cattle exhibited sudden onset of weakness, depression, anorexia, icteric mucous membranes, and dark reddish-brown urine.
- Liver copper concentrations were significantly elevated (436 and 730 ppm).
- Chicken litter contained high copper levels, ranging from 620 to 920 ppm.
- Two cows treated with sodium molybdate and thiosulfate recovered.
Conclusions:
- Chicken litter can be a source of toxic levels of copper for cattle.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment, including mineral supplementation, are crucial for managing copper toxicosis.
- Further research into safe feed management practices is warranted.