Outbreaks of copper deficiency in ruminants in the semiarid region of Paraíba, Brazil

Abstract

Five outbreaks of copper deficiency in goats and one in cattle are reported in the semiarid region of the state of Paraíba, Northeastern Brazil. In four outbreaks of delayed enzootic ataxia, the goat kids showed weakness that progressed to paralysis of the four limbs and recumbency. Head tremors were also present. In another outbreak of congenital enzootic ataxia, the kids were born with paralysis due to congenital copper deficiency. The serum copper concentrations were below the reference values. Histologically, myelin degeneration was observed mainly in the spinal cord. In one outbreak of copper deficiency in cattle, adult cows exhibited chronic diarrhea lasting 6-8 months. The cows were supplemented with parenteral copper glycinate and recovered in 20-30 days after treatment. It is concluded that due to the occurrence of copper deficiency in goats and cattle, the supplementation of this mineral is necessary in grazing ruminants in the semiarid region of Paraíba.

Keywords

• Hypocuprosis; Enzootic ataxia; Swayback; Diarrhea