Copper Clarity

Copper (Cu) is an essential trace mineral that is required in the equine diet to support the proper function of many enzymes in the horse’s body.
Why is it needed in the horse?
*Enzymes & Metabolism:
Having adequate copper levels allows optimal function of the enzymes in all cells of
the horse’s body.
Energy production by all cells of the body requires copper.
Copper contributes to metabolism, organ function, detoxification processes, growth
and more.
*Hoof Health:
Copper and zinc (in correct ratios) supports the synthesis of keratin – a protein that
contributes to the structural integrity of hooves.
*Anti-Oxidant:
Copper acts as an antioxidant by being part of an antioxidant enzyme which exists in
almost all cells of the body and protects against oxidant molecules that can cause
damage to various parts of the cell.
**More:
Copper is important for iron metabolism, healthy connective tissue, energy
production.
In young growing animals, copper helps support proper growth of cartilage, tendons, and ligaments.
The nervous system requires copper to function properly.

How much is needed?
According to the National Research Council (NRC), the daily requirement for adult horses at maintenance is estimated at 10 mg copper per kg of dry feed, or approximately 100 mg per day. This rate increases with growth, breeding, lactation & exercise.
Copper and zinc levels need to be carefully balanced with each other to ensure proper absorption of both minerals from the digestive tract. A three-to-one (3:1) ratio of zinc to copper is recommended for most horses.

What happens if your horse does not get enough?
Horses might be low in copper due to low levels in their diet or because their diets have excess levels of zinc (Zn) or iron (Fe) which can interfere with copper absorption from the gut.
Probably the most obvious sign of potential copper deficiency is a change in coat colour due to loss of pigmentation. The coat might appear dull, rough or discolored with a reddish tinge.
Copper deficiency can also cause anemia and weakened blood vessels, bones, or joints in adult horses. This can be critical in young growing foals, as low levels of copper can cause abnormal bone and cartilage formation.
Horses with low copper and zinc levels are often prone to mud fever or rain scald because their immune cells are unable to protect against overgrowth of skin bacteria in wet muddy conditions.

How do I know what & how much to feed my horse?
Given the complexity of mineral interactions and possibility for secondary deficiencies due to imbalances, it is highly recommended that you consult with an equine nutritionist before feeding vitamins or minerals on a one-off basis.

The only way to assess whether your horse is likely to benefit from supplemental copper is to evaluate mineral levels in the whole diet, this includes pasture, chaff, hay, other feeds & supplements.