Copper oxide wire particles are used in cattle for what purpose?

Copper oxide wire particles are used in cattle for what purpose?

• A. Anthelmintic activity against abomasal worms
• B. Vitamin supplementation
• C. Growth promotion
• D. Trace mineral correction

Answer: (A)

Copper oxide wire particles are used in cattle as a slow-release anthelmintic to control abomasal nematodes. When ingested, the chips lodge in the rumen and gradually release copper ions over time. These ions kill or suppress parasites such as Ostertagia ostertagi that inhabit the abomasum, helping reduce worm burden and associated production losses. This use is specifically for parasite control, not for supplying vitamins, promoting growth, or correcting trace mineral deficiencies. Keep in mind copper-related toxicity concerns in other species (notably sheep) and therefore the management context matters for safety.

Copper oxide wire particles are used in cattle as a slow-release anthelmintic to control abomasal nematodes. When ingested, the chips lodge in the rumen and gradually release copper ions over time. These ions kill or suppress parasites such as Ostertagia ostertagi that inhabit the abomasum, helping reduce worm burden and associated production losses. This use is specifically for parasite control, not for supplying vitamins, promoting growth, or correcting trace mineral deficiencies. Keep in mind copper-related toxicity concerns in other species (notably sheep) and therefore the management context matters for safety.