Do My Sheep Need Copper?

This is a FAQ around here! Yes, your sheep need copper.

Copper (Cu) is a trace mineral required by all animals, including sheep, for a number of biological functions:

• It is a cofactor for enzymes involved in connective tissue formation, pigmentation, immune function, and redox (oxidation–reduction) metabolism.
• It is required for proper wool coat, nervous system health, and iron metabolism.

Thus, sheep absolutely do need copper — deficiency can produce problems such as poor growth, anemia, changes in coat or wool quality, skeletal issues, or neurological problems (in severe deficiency).

Where sheep differ from other livestock is that they do not need as much of it, and they can be more susceptible to toxicity than other animals. Many sources suggest around 5 ppm as a goal for total dietary copper in sheep under “normal” conditions, which includes intake from all sources such as pasture, water, and fed rations.

Some diets that are higher in copper antagonists can allow for more copper intake. The absorption and storage of copper are strongly influenced by antagonists such as molybdenum (Mo), sulfur (S), iron, and zinc. These elements can bind or complex copper, reducing absorption or helping to prevent excess buildup.

There is also variation between breeds and ages. Some breeds (e.g. Texel, Suffolk, British short-wool breeds) and young lambs are more susceptible to copper toxicosis compared to others. Hair sheep tend to have a higher tolerance.

So how can you make sure your sheep flock is getting just the right amount of copper for ideal health and production?

1. Test your forage and soil to know what your sheep are already getting

2. Use a sheep specific mineral mix like one of the options listed below

3. Use antagonists wisely to avoid deficiencies

4. Limit stress to avoid sudden copper release from the liver

5. Supplement copper from only one source if possible to avoid overdosing

6. Make changes gradually and do periodic liver testing on cull animals if an overdose or deficiency is suspected

We offer several mineral mixes that are appropriate for sheep depending on your flock’s needs. Fertrell’s Sheep Nutri-Balancer and Fertrell’s Grazier’s Choice do not contain added synthetic copper, and are ideal for sensitive breeds or herds already receiving copper elsewhere. Redmond’s Selenium 90 contains added copper at sheep appropriate levels, while supplementing selenium and supporting reproductive health.

Proper management of copper levels in your sheep flock may seem tricky, but don’t let it scare you away from this important mineral! Stick with a quality mineral formulation to take the guesswork out of it for you.

Rather have a ready-made feed ration that already includes Fertrell’s Sheep Nutribalancer and meets the needs of your entire flock from lactating ewes to young lambs? Our 16% Sheep sweet feed provides everything your flock needs.