Copper Deficiency?

AriesX

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I am concerned about my flock. Sheep are showing "stringy" wool and the one black sheep has a lack of luster in color. There are no other symptoms though we did have two lambs with temporary ( now healed) ataxia (lame legs) over the summer. Wondering if this is from copper deficiency. Concerned about treating with copper for fear of causing copper toxicity. Anyone have any ideas?

Sheep are being fed mix of hay and spent grain from local brewery.
 

trampledbygeese

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What kind of sheep are they?
What mineral licks are you using?
Back legs or front for the lameness?

It's good to be cautious of copper as it can build up a toxic reaction with shocking speed, but it's also a vital trace mineral in sheep. The mineral needs vary a lot depending on kind of pasture, time of year, and ancestry.

Tell us more, maybe we can help.

Also, do you know what your Se (selenium) levels in your pasture/soil/area are like?

Any chance of mold in the hay?
 

Sweetened

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I was going to mention Selenium as well. Do they have a sheep block? That co tains trace amou ts of copper safe for sheep. They will know if they need copper and lick.
 
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