Natural Lambing - #Colostrum - supplemental tip

The first few hours of a lamb's life are the most critical. If the lamb does not nurse shortly after birth, it will weaken rapidly. The lamb should only receive assistance to nurse if it is necessary. Best results are obtained if the lamb is allowed to nurse naturally, without assistance.

Colostrum, the first milk produced by the ewe, is essential to the new born lamb. Colostrum contains high levels of antibodies that are necessary to combat infections. It is also rich in various vitamins and minerals.

Lambs must be provided colostrum within the first eight hours after birth for protection with the antibodies. In the event that natural colostrum cannot be obtained, a synthetic colostrum may be used.

Occasionally, very weak lambs also need supplemental colostrum. Colostrum must be available to provide energy, protein, minerals, vitamins, and essential antibodies that provide the lamb with vital resistance to disease.

Very weak lambs may be fed with a stomach tube. Weak lambs may also be revived with a subcutaneous injection of 25 to 50 ml of a 5% dextrose solution.

One popular supplemental colostrum formula consists of 24 ounces of cow's milk, 1 beaten egg, 1 teaspoon cod liver oil, and 1 heaping tablespoon of sugar. Feed this formula at the rate of 6 ounces per lamb, four times daily. This substitute colostrum is more valuable than no colostrum, but it does not contain the necessary antibodies.