Mother of Lambs: Ewe Care, Lambing & Postpartum

The success of a flock is intrinsically linked to the well-being of its ewes, and the dedication of organizations like the American Sheep Industry Association plays a crucial role in promoting best practices for sheep farming. Lambing season, a period of intense activity on farms across regions like the Scottish Highlands, demands attentive ewe care, particularly for first-time mothers. Clostridium perfringens type C and D, common bacterial pathogens that may require veterinary treatment, poses a significant health risk to both the mother of lambs and their offspring during and after parturition. Proper postpartum care, including the strategic use of tools like iodine-based navel dips, is vital to ensure the health and productivity of the mother of lambs, thereby contributing to sustainable sheep farming.

The lambing season is a critical period for sheep producers, demanding meticulous attention and proactive management. The success of this season hinges significantly on the health and well-being of the ewes.

Proper ewe care, encompassing nutrition, health monitoring, and environmental management, directly translates into higher lamb survival rates and overall flock productivity. Neglecting these essential aspects can lead to complications during lambing, increased lamb mortality, and reduced profitability.

This comprehensive guide delves into the essential elements of ewe care, providing practical insights and actionable strategies to optimize your lambing season. We will explore the key phases of ewe management, from pre-lambing preparation to postpartum care, and even touch upon long-term management strategies.

Unveiling the Roadmap to Success

This guide is structured to provide a clear and concise roadmap for a successful lambing season. The key topics that will be covered are:

• Pre-Lambing Ewe Management: Preparing ewes for the demands of pregnancy and lambing. This includes focusing on optimized nutrition, vigilant health monitoring, and creating a safe, suitable environment.

• The Lambing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide: Understanding the stages of labor, recognizing potential complications, and providing timely assistance. This aims at improving lambing outcomes and reducing stress on both ewes and lambs.

• Postpartum Care: Ensuring Ewe and Lamb Thrive: Implementing crucial postpartum care practices to support the recovery of ewes and the healthy development of lambs, including colostrum management and monitoring for potential health issues.

• Long-Term Management and Resources: Extending care beyond the immediate postpartum period by discussing weaning strategies and emphasizing the importance of seeking expert advice for ongoing flock health.

The Power of Proactive Management and Keen Observation

Ultimately, successful ewe care and lambing depend on proactive management and diligent observation. Regularly monitoring your ewes for signs of illness, nutritional deficiencies, or impending labor allows for early intervention and prevents potential complications.

By understanding the nuances of ewe behavior and recognizing the subtle cues that indicate a problem, you can significantly improve the health and well-being of your sheep flock.

This guide empowers you with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate the challenges of the lambing season with confidence. It emphasizes that attentive care and proactive intervention are not just best practices, but rather vital components of responsible and profitable sheep farming.

Pre-Lambing Ewe Management: Setting the Stage for Success

The lambing season is a critical period for sheep producers, demanding meticulous attention and proactive management. The success of this season hinges significantly on the health and well-being of the ewes.

Proper ewe care, encompassing nutrition, health monitoring, and environmental management, directly translates into higher lamb survival rates.

This section explores the essential pre-lambing management practices that will lay a strong foundation for a successful and productive lambing season. Let’s delve into the key areas demanding your focus.

Gestation and Nutritional Needs

Meeting the ewe’s nutritional needs during gestation is paramount for both her health and the development of her lambs. This is not a time to cut corners.

Understanding the different stages of gestation and their corresponding nutritional requirements is crucial for optimizing the health of ewes and lambs. Nutritional needs are not static; they change as gestation progresses.

The First 15 Weeks

During the first 15 weeks of gestation, nutritional needs are only slightly higher than maintenance. Ewes should be monitored during this time to make sure they aren’t over or under conditioned.

The Last Six Weeks

The final six weeks of gestation represent a critical window for fetal growth, with 70% of fetal development occurring during this time. This places significant demands on the ewe.

During this period, provide a balanced diet of protein, energy, minerals, and vitamins. This directly supports fetal development, colostrum production, and the ewe’s overall health.

A shortage of essential nutrients can lead to pregnancy toxemia or Hypocalcemia.

Preventing Metabolic Issues

Pregnancy Toxemia (Ketosis) and Hypocalcemia (Milk Fever) are two common metabolic diseases affecting ewes during late gestation. These conditions are often diet-related.

To prevent Pregnancy Toxemia, ensure adequate energy intake. Also avoid abrupt changes in feed, which can trigger a cascade of metabolic issues.

Hypocalcemia is caused by a deficiency in calcium. Supplementing with calcium, especially in older ewes or those carrying multiple lambs, can help prevent this condition.

Body Condition Scoring

Body Condition Scoring (BCS) is a valuable tool for assessing the nutritional status of ewes. This subjective evaluation considers the amount of muscle and fat.

Aim for a BCS of 3 to 3.5 at lambing. Thin ewes may have difficulty lambing and produce weak lambs. Overly fat ewes can experience lambing difficulties and reduced milk production.

Regular BCS assessment allows you to adjust feed accordingly, ensuring optimal health and productivity in your flock.

Health Monitoring and Preventative Measures

Proactive health management is vital for preventing disease and ensuring the well-being of both the ewe and her lambs. Don’t wait for problems to arise; take preventative action.

Vaccination Protocols

Establish a robust vaccination protocol to protect ewes and lambs from common diseases. Consult with your veterinarian to develop a vaccination schedule tailored to your specific region and flock.

Vaccinations protect both the ewe and the lamb, providing vital immunity to common diseases.

Common vaccinations include:

• Clostridium perfringens (types C and D) and tetanus.

Parasite Control

Parasites, both internal and external, can significantly impact ewe health and productivity. Develop a comprehensive parasite control strategy. This involves regular fecal egg counts, strategic deworming, and pasture management.

Consider using FAMACHA scoring to determine the need for deworming in individual animals.

Effective parasite control not only improves ewe health but also reduces the risk of parasite transmission to lambs.

Hoof Care

Regular hoof trimming is essential for maintaining mobility and preventing lameness. Lame ewes have difficulty accessing feed and water, which can negatively impact their health and lamb development.

Inspect hooves regularly for signs of infection, such as foot rot.

Implement a routine hoof trimming schedule to ensure that your ewes are able to move freely and comfortably.

Preparing the Lambing Shed/Barn

A clean, safe, and well-prepared lambing environment is critical for minimizing the risk of infection and ensuring the comfort of ewes and lambs. Neglecting this aspect can lead to preventable losses.

Cleanliness and Hygiene

Thoroughly clean and disinfect the lambing shed or barn before the start of lambing season. Remove all manure and bedding.

Use a disinfectant solution to kill bacteria and viruses. Fresh, clean bedding provides a comfortable and hygienic environment for newborn lambs.

Space and Ventilation

Ensure adequate space for ewes to lamb comfortably and for lambs to move around freely. Overcrowding can increase the risk of disease transmission and stress.

Proper ventilation is essential for removing moisture and ammonia from the air. This reduces the risk of respiratory problems in both ewes and lambs.

Setting Up Lambing Jugs/Pens

Individual lambing jugs or pens provide a safe and secure space for ewes and their newborns. These pens help prevent lambs from wandering away from their mothers and minimize the risk of being trampled by other sheep.

Make sure the Lambing Jugs are easily visible to observe Ewes and Lambs.

Provide fresh water and feed in the lambing jugs. The size should be adequate to allow the ewe to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

The Lambing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Following proper preparation, the lambing process itself requires careful observation and timely intervention. Understanding the stages of labor and knowing when and how to assist the ewe is crucial for ensuring the safe delivery of healthy lambs. A proactive approach, combined with a solid understanding of potential complications, can significantly improve lamb survival rates.

Recognizing the Signs of Parturition

The ability to accurately identify the signs of impending labor is the first step in providing appropriate assistance to the ewe. Subtle behavioral changes often precede physical indications, demanding a keen eye and familiarity with individual ewe behaviors.

Behavioral Changes

Ewes nearing parturition often exhibit characteristic behavioral changes. These may include:

• Restlessness: The ewe may pace, repeatedly lie down and stand up, or paw at the ground.

• Isolation: She may separate herself from the rest of the flock, seeking a quiet and secluded spot.

• Nesting: Some ewes will attempt to create a nest by pawing at the bedding or gathering materials.

Physical Signs

Alongside behavioral changes, several physical signs indicate that lambing is imminent. These signs are more pronounced and easier to observe, confirming the onset of labor.

• Udder Development: The udder will become increasingly distended and firm in the weeks leading up to lambing. In the hours before labor, it may appear tight and shiny.

• Relaxation of Pelvic Ligaments: The ligaments around the tail head will soften and relax, creating a sunken appearance. This is often referred to as the "springing" of the ewe.

The Three Stages of Labor

Labor is typically divided into three distinct stages, each characterized by specific physiological processes and observable signs. Understanding these stages allows for appropriate monitoring and timely intervention if necessary.

1. Preparatory Stage:
   This stage involves cervical dilation and uterine contractions. The ewe may appear restless and uncomfortable, with intermittent contractions. This stage can last from 2 to 12 hours.

2. Expulsion Stage:
   This stage begins with the rupture of the amniotic sac ("water breaking") and ends with the delivery of the lamb. Strong, regular contractions propel the lamb through the birth canal. This stage should ideally be completed within 1 to 2 hours of the water breaking.

3. Placental Stage:
   This stage involves the expulsion of the placenta (afterbirth). It typically occurs within 30 minutes to several hours after the lamb is born.

Assisting the Ewe During Lambing

While many ewes lamb without assistance, it’s essential to be prepared to intervene when necessary. Knowing when to step in and how to assist can be the difference between a successful lambing and a challenging outcome.

When to Intervene

Observing the ewe closely is critical for determining when intervention is required.
Allow the ewe to lamb naturally as long as labor progresses normally. However, intervention is necessary in the following situations:

• Prolonged Labor: If the ewe is straining without progress for more than 30-60 minutes after the water breaks.
• Malpresentation: If the lamb is not positioned correctly for delivery (e.g., leg or head turned back).
• Ewe Fatigue: If the ewe becomes exhausted and stops straining.

Maintaining Hygiene

Hygiene is paramount when assisting a ewe during lambing. Always wear clean Lambing Gloves and Obstetrical Sleeves to minimize the risk of introducing infection into the ewe’s reproductive tract.

Addressing Dystocia (Difficult Birth)

Dystocia, or difficult birth, can arise from various causes, often requiring intervention to ensure the survival of both the ewe and the lamb.

• Common Causes:
  Malpresentation is a frequent cause, where the lamb is positioned incorrectly in the birth canal (e.g., head or leg turned back). An oversized lamb, relative to the ewe’s pelvic size, can also lead to dystocia.

• Corrective Measures:
  Repositioning the lamb is often necessary to facilitate delivery. This involves gently manipulating the lamb’s limbs or head into the correct position within the birth canal. Generous application of Obstetrical Lubricant can significantly ease manipulation and reduce trauma.

• When to Call the Veterinarian:
  Despite best efforts, some cases of dystocia require professional veterinary assistance. Don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian if you are unable to correct the malpresentation or if the ewe’s condition deteriorates.
  Timely veterinary intervention can save the lives of both the ewe and the lamb.

Immediate Post-Lambing Care

Once the lamb is born, immediate attention is required to ensure its survival and well-being. These initial steps are crucial for establishing respiration, preventing hypothermia, and minimizing the risk of infection.

• Clearing the Airways:
  Immediately after birth, clear any mucus or membranes from the lamb’s nose and mouth to ensure it can breathe freely. Gently swing the lamb upside down for a few seconds to help clear any remaining fluids.

• Drying the Lamb:
  Drying the lamb is essential to prevent hypothermia, especially in cold weather. Rub the lamb vigorously with a clean, dry towel to stimulate circulation and remove moisture. The ewe will often lick the lamb dry, which also helps to stimulate bonding.

• Disinfecting the Navel:
  Dip the lamb’s navel in a 7% Iodine solution immediately after birth. This helps to prevent bacteria from entering the lamb’s body through the umbilical cord, reducing the risk of navel ill and other infections.

Postpartum Care: Ensuring Ewe and Lamb Thrive

Following the successful delivery of lambs, the focus shifts to postpartum care, a critical period for both the ewe and her offspring. This phase demands diligent management to ensure the ewe’s recovery, the lamb’s healthy start, and the establishment of a strong maternal bond. By meticulously attending to the needs of both ewe and lamb, farmers lay the foundation for a productive and thriving sheep flock.

Colostrum Management: The Lamb’s First Line of Defense

Colostrum, the "first milk," is an invaluable source of antibodies, providing passive immunity to newborn lambs. Lambs are born without a fully developed immune system, making them highly susceptible to infections.

Colostrum delivers essential immunoglobulins, proteins that act as antibodies, directly into the lamb’s bloodstream. This passive immunity is crucial for protecting the lamb during its first few weeks of life, before its own immune system becomes fully functional.

The Rule of 3 Q’s: Quantity, Quality, Quickly

To ensure adequate colostrum intake, prioritize the "Rule of 3 Q’s":

• Quantity: Lambs should receive approximately 10% of their body weight in colostrum within the first 24 hours. This is best administered in multiple feedings.

• Quality: The colostrum should be thick and yellowish, indicating a high concentration of antibodies.

• Quickly: Colostrum should be administered as soon as possible after birth, ideally within the first 4-6 hours, as the lamb’s ability to absorb antibodies decreases rapidly over time.

Assisting Weak Lambs: Esophageal Feeders

Weak lambs may struggle to nurse effectively. In such cases, an esophageal feeder (also known as a stomach tube) can be used to deliver colostrum directly into the lamb’s stomach.

It’s crucial to use the feeder correctly and gently to avoid injury. Seek guidance from a veterinarian or experienced shepherd if you are unfamiliar with this procedure.

Colostrum Storage and Thawing

Surplus colostrum can be stored for future use. Freeze colostrum in small portions for convenient thawing.

When thawing, avoid using a microwave, as this can damage the antibodies. Instead, thaw colostrum slowly in warm water.

Ewe Recovery and Health: Monitoring for Complications

Post-lambing, closely monitor the ewe for signs of complications.

Infection: Metritis and Mastitis

Metritis (uterine infection) and mastitis (udder infection) are common postpartum concerns. Look for signs such as fever, loss of appetite, vaginal discharge (metritis), and a hot, swollen udder (mastitis). Consult with a veterinarian for prompt treatment.

Essential Support: Nutrition and Hydration

Provide the ewe with access to fresh, clean water and high-quality feed to support milk production and recovery. A balanced diet is crucial for replenishing her energy reserves and ensuring optimal lamb growth.

Addressing Retained Placenta and Uterine Prolapse

Sometimes, the ewe may fail to expel the placenta after lambing. If the placenta is retained for more than 24 hours, seek veterinary advice. Uterine prolapse, where the uterus turns inside out and protrudes from the vulva, is a serious emergency requiring immediate veterinary intervention.

Hypocalcemia (Milk Fever): Recognizing and Treating

Hypocalcemia, or milk fever, is a metabolic disorder caused by low calcium levels in the blood.

Signs include muscle tremors, weakness, and recumbency (inability to stand). Prompt treatment with calcium supplementation is essential.

Lamb Care and Monitoring: Ensuring a Healthy Start

Beyond colostrum, ongoing lamb care is vital for their well-being.

Observing Lamb Behavior: Early Detection

Pay close attention to the lamb’s behavior. A healthy lamb will be active, alert, and nurse vigorously. Changes in behavior, such as lethargy, decreased appetite, or difficulty breathing, can indicate underlying health issues.

Preventing Hypothermia: Warmth is Key

Newborn lambs are susceptible to hypothermia, especially in cold or wet conditions.

Provide adequate bedding and consider using a heat lamp to keep lambs warm. Ensure the lamb is thoroughly dried after birth to prevent heat loss.

Addressing Common Lamb Ailments

Scours (diarrhea) and pneumonia are common health problems in young lambs. Scours can be caused by various factors, including infections and dietary imbalances. Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Early detection and treatment are crucial.

The Maternal Bond: Fostering Attachment

The bond between the ewe and lamb is essential for successful lamb rearing. Ensure the ewe recognizes and accepts her lamb.

In cases of rejection, fostering techniques may be necessary. Rubbing the lamb with the ewe’s placental fluids can help encourage acceptance.

Record Keeping: Tracking Progress and Identifying Issues

Maintaining accurate records is an essential part of postpartum management.

Weighing Lambs: Monitoring Growth

Regularly weighing lambs allows you to monitor their growth rate and identify any lambs that are not thriving. Track weights at birth and at regular intervals throughout the lamb’s early life.

Identification: Marking Ewes and Lambs

Use marking paint or crayons to identify ewes and lambs. This simplifies record-keeping and helps track individual performance.

Long-Term Management and Resources

Following diligent postpartum care, the long-term success of a sheep operation hinges on strategic management and resource utilization. Weaning lambs at the optimal time and fostering strong connections with experienced professionals are crucial steps towards a healthy and productive flock. This phase requires a proactive approach, focusing on the continued well-being of both ewes and lambs as they transition into different stages of life.

Weaning Strategies: Setting the Stage for Independence

Weaning is a critical transition point in a lamb’s life, requiring careful planning to minimize stress and ensure continued growth. Strategic nutritional adjustments also must be considered, benefiting both ewes and lambs.

Determining the Appropriate Timing

The timing of weaning is dependent on several factors, including the breed, the ewe’s milk production, and the lamb’s growth rate.

Generally, lambs are weaned between 8 and 12 weeks of age. Weaning too early can compromise the lamb’s development, while delaying weaning can place undue stress on the ewe and hinder her recovery.

Careful observation of the lambs’ ability to consume solid feed and their overall health is essential in making this determination.

Nutritional Adjustments for Ewes and Lambs

Nutritional needs shift dramatically during the weaning process.

Ewes require a reduction in feed to decrease milk production and prevent mastitis. A gradual decrease in high-energy feeds, coupled with an increase in roughage, can help manage this transition.

Lambs, on the other hand, need a readily available source of high-quality feed to compensate for the loss of milk. Supplementation with creep feed prior to weaning encourages rumen development and prepares them for a fully solid diet.

Post-weaning, ensure lambs have access to nutritious pastures or well-balanced feed rations to support optimal growth and development.

Seeking Expert Advice: Building a Foundation for Success

No shepherd operates in isolation. Cultivating strong relationships with veterinarians and seasoned farmers is invaluable for informed decision-making and effective problem-solving.

The Importance of a Veterinary Partnership

Developing a strong relationship with a veterinarian is an essential component of long-term sheep management.

A veterinarian can provide guidance on preventative health programs, diagnose and treat illnesses, and offer expert advice on nutrition and breeding. Regular consultations and prompt attention to health concerns can significantly improve the overall health and productivity of the flock.

Be proactive in scheduling routine check-ups and communicating any concerns you may have about your animals.

Learning from Experienced Shepherds and Farmers

Mentorship from experienced shepherds and farmers offers a wealth of practical knowledge that cannot be found in textbooks.

These individuals can provide valuable insights into local conditions, breed-specific challenges, and effective management strategies. Seek out opportunities to learn from their successes and failures, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Local sheep associations and agricultural organizations can be excellent resources for connecting with experienced producers.

Utilizing Local Veterinary Practices

Local veterinary practices are attuned to the unique challenges of your region. They can provide timely assistance during emergencies, offer tailored advice based on regional disease patterns, and connect you with other valuable resources in the community.

Supporting local veterinary practices not only benefits your flock but also contributes to the overall health of the agricultural community.

Building these relationships is an investment in the long-term vitality of your sheep operation.

So, whether you’re a seasoned shepherd or just starting your flock, remember that paying close attention to ewe care, especially during lambing and postpartum, is vital. Ultimately, healthy moms make for healthy lambs, and that’s what it’s all about when you’re focused on being the best mother of lambs that you can be. Good luck with your flock!