Target species
Sheep.
Indications for use
For the prevention and treatment of copper deficiency (hypocuprosis) in sheep and for the prevention of swayback in lambs by administering a single injection to the ewe 2.5 months pre-lambing.
Contra-indications
Do not administer intravenously or intramuscularly.
Do not overdose as there is no specific antidote.
Do not administer other forms of copper treatment or supplementation concurrently.
Special warnings for each target species
The copper status on farms may change from year to year. It is therefore recommended that random samples of serum are periodically checked to see if the deficiency still exists, as sheep are sensitive to copper toxicity.
Special precautions for use
Special precautions for use in animals
Shake the vial vigorously prior to use.
Special precautions to be taken by the person administering the product to animals
None.
Adverse reactions
Some local reactions occur occasionally. These usually subside in time.
Use during pregnancy and lactation
Safe for use during pregnancy and lactation.
Interactions
Do not administer with other forms of copper treatment or supplementation.
Amounts to be administered and administration route
The need for therapy should be assessed on serum and liver analysis before treatment. Inject into a clean site subcutaneously in the brisket. The following dosage schedule is given as an average guide: Ewes 2 ml, 2.5 months prior to lambing. Shake the vial vigorously to resuspend the solid prior to use.
In keeping with safe practice the animal should be restrained in order to avoid injury to animals or human beings. Use aseptic technique.
Overdose
Do not overdose, as there is no specific antidote.
Excess copper accumulates in the liver and can result in a haemolytic crisis leading to death. Suffolk, Texel, Welsh and rare breeds are particularly susceptible.
Withdrawal periods
Ewes meat – 28 days