Experimental copper poisoning in the camel (Camelus dromedarius)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Toxicology
• Animal Physiology
• Comparative Pathology

Background:

• Copper is an essential trace element for camels, but excessive intake can lead to toxicity.
• Understanding copper sulphate toxicity is crucial for managing camel health and preventing adverse effects from supplementation or environmental exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical signs, pathological lesions, and biochemical changes associated with copper sulphate toxicity in dromedary camels.
• To determine the effects of different administration routes (oral and intravenous) and dosages of copper sulphate.

Main Methods:

• Five dromedary camels were administered varying doses of copper sulphate via oral drench or intravenous injection.
• Clinical observations, post-mortem examinations, histopathology, and serum biochemical analyses were performed.

Main Results:

• Oral administration at high doses (200 mg/kg/day) resulted in rapid death with severe liver and kidney necrosis.
• Lower oral doses (100 mg/kg/day) and intravenous administration led to weight loss, anemia, and milder hepatic and renal lesions.
• Copper accumulated in the liver and kidneys; zinc also accumulated in these organs with intravenous administration.
• Biochemical markers indicated liver damage (increased gamma GT, GOT, LDH) and altered mineral metabolism.

Conclusions:

• Copper sulphate can induce significant toxicity in dromedary camels, with severity depending on dose and route of administration.
• Hepatic and renal damage are primary pathological findings, alongside hematological and biochemical alterations.
• Monitoring copper levels and judicious supplementation are essential for camel health.