Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
ingesting enough feed to support themselves and the growing lambs if they're
fed on low-quality roughage. If they aren't getting enough protein and energy,
they use excessive quantities of stored fat reserves, which can lead to preg-
nancy toxemia. Poor energy supplementation can also result in hypoglycemia
(low blood sugar), which mimics the symptoms of pregnancy toxemia.
A good grain mix would be one-third oats, one-third shelled corn, and
one-third wheat (for the selenium content). Barley, if available, is a good feed.
Grain rations can be supplemented to 12 to 15 percent protein content with
soybean meal or another protein source. Grain and hay should be given on
a regular schedule to avoid the risk for pregnancy disease or enterotoxemia
by erratic eating. Approximately 1 pound (0.5 kg) of grain per day (more for
larger ewes) is a good rule of thumb.
At this time, watch for droopy ewes — ones going off their feed or stand-
ing around in a daze. See chapter 8 for troubles ewes may suffer at this time,
including pregnancy toxemia. Exercise and sunlight are valuable to all critters
THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER FEEDING
IN LATE PREGNANCY
Poor feeding in the last 4 weeks (or last 5 to 6 weeks for twinning
ewes) can lead to any of the following:
■
Low birth weight of the lamb or lambs
■
Low fat reserves in newborn lambs, resulting in more deaths
from chilling and exposure
■
Low wool production from those lambs as adults
■
Increased chances of pregnancy toxemia
■
Shortened gestation period, with some lambs born slightly
premature
■
Ewes may be slower to come into milk and have less milk
■
Production of “tender” layer (break) in the ewe's fl eece; this
weakness causes the fi bers to break with the slightest pull and
decreases the wool value
Excessive feeding can result in excessive growth of the lambs
and an overweight condition in the ewe, which can lead to serious
lambing problems.
