Evaluating copper levels in every feed source and supplement before formulating rations for dairy cows – and youngstock – will help meet animal requirements but prevent overfeeding and protect animal health.
Copper is an important trace element for cows and heifers, and no single source will cause copper toxicity.
But added together, a range of feeds and supplements containing copper can produce an excess in the diet.
Studies at Harper Adams University (see “Research into overfeeding of copper to heifers”) have shown that feeding high levels of copper to replacement heifers results in better growth rates and earlier oestrus.
Yet longer term, these animals also had indicators