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Copper Oxide Wire Particles and Parasite Control in Alpacas

Gastrointestinal parasites remain one of the biggest health challenges in alpaca herds. Barber pole worm continues to drive anemia, weight loss, and death when left unchecked. Many farms now face resistance to common dewormers. This has led breeders and veterinarians to look at other tools.

One option is copper oxide wire particles. Recent research (https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/ajvr/83/11/ajvr.22.07.0115.xml) and field experience offer useful insight into how this tool fits into a herd health program.

What research shows

A controlled clinical study evaluated the use of a 2 gram copper oxide wire particle dose in adult alpacas. Fifty seven alpacas took part across two farms. Animals received either copper particles or a placebo. Researchers tracked fecal egg counts, body condition, anemia scores, and blood values over 90 days.

Alpacas that received copper particles showed a significant drop in fecal egg counts compared with the control group. The reduction developed over time after treatment. Body condition, anemia scores, and hematocrit showed no meaningful difference between treated and untreated groups. No clinical signs of copper toxicity appeared during the study period.

Researchers concluded that a 2 gram dose reduced gastrointestinal nematode egg shedding and appeared safe under the conditions studied. They viewed it as a useful tool for parasite control, not a complete solution.

Field experience and practical use
Copper oxide wire particles work best against barber pole worm. The copper damages worms in the true stomach. Many farms report a strong short term drop in barber pole egg counts after treatment. Effects often last two to six weeks. Reinfection from pasture then begins again.

Impact on other internal parasites is limited. Copper particles do not replace routine fecal testing or targeted deworming. They serve as one tool within a broader parasite control plan.

Typical use in adult alpacas
Most adult alpacas receive a 2 gram oral dose. Smaller animals often receive 1 gram. Many farms use copper only when fecal tests show barber pole as the main parasite. Follow up fecal checks at 10 to 14 days help confirm response.

Safety remains important. Alpacas tolerate copper better than sheep but less than goats. Repeated dosing over time raises risk of copper accumulation. Herds with high copper mineral intake should use caution. Work with a veterinarian when building a long term plan.

Best results occur when copper use pairs with strong management.
You should:

    • Test fecals on a routine schedule.
    • Use FAMACHA scoring during parasite season.
    • Treat only animals that need it.
    • Rotate pastures and avoid overstocking.
    • Recheck fecals after treatment.

Bottom line
A 2 gram copper oxide wire particle dose reduces barber pole worm pressure and lowers fecal egg counts in alpacas. Research and field use support its role as a targeted tool. It does not replace a full parasite program. Used wisely, it strengthens your overall defense against one of the alpaca industry’s most costly health threats. Before using any de worming protocol, consult your veterinarian.

Notes


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