Common health checks necessary for sheep pre-lambing?

Pre-Lambing Health Checks

Pre-lambing health checks are crucial to identify any potential issues that could compromise the health of the ewe and her lambs. Checking body condition is essential, as ewes should be at a body condition score (BCS) of 3-3.5 on a scale of 1-5 to ensure adequate nutrition and energy reserves for lambing. This can be achieved by assessing the amount of fat covering the loin and ribs, as well as the condition of the udder and the length of the wool.

Dental Health and Internal Parasites

Dental health checks are also vital, as poor dental condition can lead to reduced feed intake, weight loss, and increased susceptibility to disease. Teeth should be checked for signs of wear, abscesses, or overcrowding, and any necessary dental work should be carried out before lambing. Internal parasites, such as tapeworms and flukes, can also be identified through fecal egg counts and treated accordingly. A fecal egg count should be performed 4-6 weeks pre-lambing to ensure any necessary treatment is administered before lambing.

Observing Udder Health

The udder should be checked for signs of mastitis, which can be identified by heat, swelling, and discharge from the teat. Regular udder checks can help identify any potential issues early, reducing the risk of mastitis and ensuring the health of the ewe and her lambs. A vitamin A supplement should be administered 4-6 weeks pre-lambing to ensure adequate levels are present in the ewe’s system, reducing the risk of lambing-related issues.