Feeding ewes before and after lambing

Sarah Day, nutritionist at Small Holder Feed, explains how clear planning and steady feeding can support healthy births, thriving lambs and productive ewes throughout the season

- Sarah Day

When you are heading into lambing, feeding can suddenly feel like a juggling act. You want ewes in good condition, producing plenty of milk and strong lambs, but without overdoing it and risking complications.

A STEADY BUILDUP BEFORE LAMBING

In the final six to eight weeks of pregnancy, an unborn lamb grows quickly, while the ewe's rumen space reduces. This means she cannot eat the same volume of forage she did earlier in pregnancy, yet her nutritional needs increase. This is when feeding becomes more focused, and when the right support makes all the difference. Start feeding Small Holder Feed Sheep Mix around six to eight weeks before lambing. Introduce concentrate feed gradually, beginning at around 0.25kg per ewe per day. Increase slowly over the weeks, working towards around 1kg per ewe per day as lambing approaches for twin-bearing ewes. Always match quantities to body condition, based on whether she is carrying singles, twins or triplets. Split feed into two meals daily and support it with good quality hay, haylage or silage. Consistent fibre remains key for healthy rumen function. Fresh water should always be available and easily accessible. Slow, steady changes help prevent digestive upsets and keep ewes eating comfortably right through to lambing.

FEEDING FOR BODY CONDITION AND HEALTH