Study The Pathological Changes Resulting From Copper Deficiency In Awassi Sheep Organs

• Main Author: Jenan A. Al-Khalide
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: University of Baghdad, College of Veterinary Medicine 2007-12-01
• Series: The Iraqi Journal of Veterinary Medicine
• Online Access: https://jcovm.uobaghdad.edu.iq/index.php/Iraqijvm/article/view/787
• ISSN: 1609-5693; 2410-7409

To induce copper deficiency in sheep (15)Awasi ewes from the college of Veterinary Medicine flock were used. The ewes during the preparation period (18 weeks) were fed on balanced concentrated diet contained (5.2) mg/day copper in addition of the green food. The ewes were randomly divided into three equal groups for the experimental period (18 weeks). Another balanced concentrated diet with low level of copper (2.6) mg/day was used to feed the primary deficiency group while the secondary copper deficiency group fed on the same concentrate used in the preparation period. The protein ratio and energy level were considered. The secondary deficiency group received an oral mixture of ammonium molybdate (100) mg with (1) g of sodium sulphate in (100) ml of water daily. One ewe and two lambs died from the primary deficiency group however a dead still born lamb was born from the secondary deficiency group. The postmortem examination of dead animals studies was done and histopathological samples from the central nervous system, heart, lung, kidney and muscles were examined. The histopathological examination showed vaculation, degeneration with demylination in central nervous system. These changes were more sever in lumber and thoracic than cervical spinal cord. The same changes were found in the cerebrum and cerebellum. While the liver, heart, lung, kidney showed hydropic degeneration and cloudy swelling. The symptoms and changes through the experimental period were more obvious in the secondary deficiency group than in the primary one.