Studies on the tolerance and retention of various Cu-compounds
Meyer, H.; Kroger, H.; Benten, K. von
Deutsche Tierärztliche Wochenschrift 83(9): 401-403
1976
ISSN/ISBN: 0341-6593 PMID: 786600 Document Number: 104452
The effects of different copper compounds on pigs at levels supplying extra Cu 250 or 500 mg/kg diet were studied in trials lasting about 8 weeks. Groups of 2 pigs of initial weight 16 kg were given diets in which the extra Cu was provided in the form of cuprous oxide, copper acetate, basic copper carbonate or copper chloride; a control group of 4 pigs was given no supplement of Cu. Pigs were killed at 52 kg average liveweight and Cu was estimated in blood, organs and muscle. There was no toxic effect, growth depression or liver change as a result of the extra Cu in the diet, but Cu in liver increased in all except those given cuprous oxide. Hb values were reduced with all Cu compounds at 500 mg/kg, except cuprous oxide; Cu in kidneys and, to a lesser degree, in spleen and muscle was also increased. It is concluded that results can be expected from supplements of basic copper carbonate, acetate or chloride similar to those from copper sulphate.