What It Does
Essential for iron metabolism, coat pigmentation, connective tissue formation, and nerve function. Copper enables your pet's body to absorb and use iron properly. It also produces melanin — the pigment that gives fur its color. Without copper, dark-coated pets develop a washed-out, reddish tinge.
What You’ll Notice
A copper-deficient dog or cat develops a faded, dull coat — black fur turns reddish-brown, and overall color looks bleached. Other signs include anemia (despite adequate iron), poor wound healing, and weakened connective tissue. However, some breeds accumulate toxic copper levels in the liver.
Sources & Notes
Bedlington Terriers, West Highland White Terriers, Dobermans, and Labradors are prone to copper storage disease (toxic accumulation in liver). These breeds need copper-restricted diets. Never supplement copper without testing first.