Authors : Vadullah Eren, Ozay Gules, Ulker Eren and Resat Nuri Asti
Abstract: In this study, the effects organic zinc and copper mineral supplementation in Kivircik sheep during the pre and post-partum period was investigated by decreasing the normally given inorganic mineral level by 25%. The control group (n = 8) received copper sulfate and zinc sulfate and the treatment group (n = 8) received copper chelate and zinc chelate. The difference between the mean live weight and total weight gain between the groups was not significant. The mean serum copper and zinc values, skin copper and zinc values and wool zinc value were numerically higher in the treatment group. Additionally, the mean wool copper and the skin dry matter values were higher (p<0.05) in the treatment group. At the end of the study, the mean feces copper (p<0.05) and zinc levels (p<0.01) were significantly lower in the treatment group. During examination of histological structure of the skin, researchers observed that the Str. papillare was thin (p<0.001) in the treatment group. No other differences between the skin features of the treatment and control group were observed. In addition, the decrease in the thickness of the Str. papillare may be a result of tightening due to the positive effect of organically ingested copper and zinc on connective tissue fibers.
Vadullah Eren, Ozay Gules, Ulker Eren and Resat Nuri Asti, 2012. The Utilization of Organic Copper and Zinc in the Feeding of Sheep During the Pre and Post-Partum Period. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 11: 890-897.