Study The Pathological Changes Resulting From Copper Deficiency In Awassi Sheep Organs Jenan A.Al-Khalide , Saade Ahmed khanawe , Lela M.zake

Abstract

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.