If you are new to goats, you have probably heard the term "Copper Bolus".
What does this mean? A copper bolus is essentially a copper filled pill. This gel capsule is full of tiny copper wire pieces, it sounds kind of scary but these wire shards are essential for your goats health and for sufficient parasite control.
It can seem a bit overwhelming at first, but let's break it down for you.
Firstly, like anything else you research, you may find a ton of different information on a ton of different sites, I tried to link the essentials you will need in this article for easy access and ordering.
So what does copper do for a goat?
Copper is important for many reasons,
It is essential for the formation of collagen. (Collagen helps with proper bone formation)
Copper helps to strengthen the goats blood vessels and arteries.
It is excellent for ligaments, tendons and skin health.
Copper is very important for maintaining a healthy central nervous system.
Copper is great for iron metabolism.
Copper protects the goats body from oxidants.
Copper helps treat internal parasites and worms! (Read more about this in our blog about Barber Pole Worms)
You can buy pre-made copper bolus's they typically come in two doses,
"Kid dose" of 2g which is for goats over 25 pounds and over 5 weeks old and an
"Adult dose" of 4g which is intended for goats over 30 pounds and over 3 months old.
Both of these I buy right on Chewy!
Although these pre-made capsules are great, it is always recommended to make your own whenever you can. Making your own capsules ensures the proper dosing per weight of the goat. The cheapest way I have found to make your own is to purchase the Copper Bolus's for Cattle, as well as empty gel capsules (typically size 00 or # 10 ) open the cattle bolus and measure out the required gram dosage needed with a kitchen scale and pack into a new capsule.
Administer with a balling gun for best results. Although if you have a hard time with a balling gun you can use a fruit your goats like such as a grape or banana and hide the capsule inside their treat, just watch closely to ensure that they swallow the pill and do not spit it out.
What is the dosing for Copper Bolus in Goats?
The proper dosing is 1g per 22 pounds of body weight and is only recommended once every 8 -12 months. Use this cheat sheet below to find your proper dosage.
*If your goat falls between two weights, I like to round DOWN, but this is a personal preference.
Grams of Copper Bolus | Goat Weight (in LBS) |
1g | 22 lbs |
2g | 44 lbs |
3g | 66 lbs |
4g | 88 lbs |
5g | 110 lbs |
6g | 132 lbs |
7g | 154 lbs |
8g | 176 lbs |
9g | 198 lbs |
10g | 220 lbs |
11g | 242 lbs |
12g | 264 lbs |
13g | 286 bs |
14g | 308 lbs |
15g | 330 lbs |
If your goat is more than 330 lbs, simply add 1g for each 22 lbs more.
!!!! DO NOT give Copper Bolus to Sheep without first consulting your vet as excess copper can be fatal in sheep!!!!
Disclaimer:
Any information found on this site is meant to supplement only. It is NOT meant to replace advice from your vet and may not cover all possible uses or effects. This information may not fit every circumstance. Never delay or disregard seeking professional advice from your vet because of something you have read on our site. Always speak with your vet if you suspect your goat is sick, and before you start, stop, or change any part of your goats health care plan, treatment or routine.
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