USE OF COPPER SULFATE TO CONTROL HAEMONCHUS CONTORTUS INFESTATION IN HAMPSHIRE EWES

Author

Melinda Mallory Simpson, University of KentuckyFollow

Date Available

10-31-2011

Year of Publication

2011

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Document Type

Thesis

College

Agriculture

Department

Animal Science

First Advisor

Dr. Donald G. Ely

Abstract

Two studies were conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of using copper sulfate (CuSO₄) as a drench in Hampshire ewes to control stomach worms (Haemonchus contortus).

A study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of CuSO₄ to control gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) over a three year period. Ewes were FAMACHA scored, hematocrit evaluated for packed cell volume (PCV), and fecal egg counts (FEC) were determined from 2007 through 2009. Ewes received only CuSO₄ to control GIN. Ewes with FEC exceeding 6,000 eggs/g feces were drenched.

A separate study during the summer of 2008 assessed the potential of CuSO₄ drench to cause copper toxicity in Hampshire ewes. Eighty-four ewes were blocked to one of two treatments according to parity and balanced for FEC. One group received CuSO₄ (D) and the other was not drenched (ND). Jugular blood samples were collected at pre-determined intervals after CuSO₄ was administered to D ewes. Serum was analyzed for aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and creatine kinase (CK). Elevated serum levels indicate copper toxicity.

Results suggest CuSO₄ has the potential to control stomach worms in Hampshire ewes without causing copper toxicity.

Recommended Citation

Simpson, Melinda Mallory, "USE OF COPPER SULFATE TO CONTROL HAEMONCHUS CONTORTUS INFESTATION IN HAMPSHIRE EWES" (2011). University of Kentucky Master's Theses. 135.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/gradschool_theses/135