While only trace amounts are needed, deficiencies can be devastating to cattle. The best tissue for diagnosis of copper deficiency in cattle is the liver. In the last two years, many veterinarians in California have attended advanced training sessions on liver biopsy techniques in cattle. University of California Extension veterinarians have designed a new liver biopsy instrument that is very practical for chuteside use. DO NOT start increased copper supplementation without an accurate diagnosis and a plan for follow-up testing.
Copper has the smallest margin of error of any of the trace minerals.
Currently, there are several dairy herds in California that have been oversupplemented with copper, and losses have been severe. These products are given subcutaneously and provide adequate supplementation for 6 to 12 months. Caution must be used when these products are given, as serious side effects can occur. Follow your veterinarian's advice carefully when using copper injections to avoid problems. Also available are slow release boluses that supply copper to cattle for a full 12 months.