Copper oxide wire particles effective against gastrointestinal nematodes in adult alpacas during a randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Objective: To determine whether copper oxide wire particles (COWP) administered as an oral bolus effectively decrease fecal gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) egg counts in adult alpacas.

Animals: 57 adult alpacas.

Procedures: A double-blind clinical trial was performed during the months of April through August 2019. Adult alpacas enrolled in the trial were administered 2 g of COWP or a placebo control capsule PO on day 0 and day 45. On day 0 and at 15-day intervals, fecal samples were collected, and Modified McMaster fecal egg counts (FEC) were performed as well as physical examinations, including FAMACHA scoring and body condition scoring (BCS). Hematocrits were measured in 30-day intervals (days 0, 30, 60, and 90). Results were compared across groups.

Results: A significant decrease in mean FEC was observed in the COWP-treated group over time, compared with the placebo group. Mean BCS, FAMACHA score, and Hct did not differ significantly between groups. No clinical evidence of copper toxicosis was observed.

Clinical relevance: Oral administration of COWP was determined to be a safe and effective method of reducing GIN FEC in adult alpacas.