Copper is one of the oldest metals known to man. Brass, bronze, gun metal, and money metal are important alloys that contain copper. These alloys are often used in construction, electrical products, transportation equipment, industrial machinery/equipment, coins, and consumer products. Copper compounds are also commonly used for fungicides, fertilizers, and nutritional supplements for humans and animals. Acute copper toxicosis may occur in any species (ruminants or non-ruminants) associated with the use of these various compounds, but sheep are especially susceptible to copper toxicosis. The most common cause of copper toxicosis in sheep is usually chronic exposure to diets containing either excessive amounts of this common metal or improper copper:molybdenum ratios. Since copper is an essential trace element, its role in electron transfer reactions make this metal vital for connective tissue cross-linking, antioxidant defense, cellular respiration, and catecholamine biosynthesis. However, copper is also responsible for toxicity at excess accumulations through free radical production and direct oxidation of cellular components.

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