[Jacob-list] Shearing

[RnS1260 at aol.com]

Sue,
We also dislike seeing our little sheep shiver. This past week we received a 
newsletter form Pipestone Vet Supply that eased our worries. Ketosis (Twin 
Lamb Disease) is a metabolic disease of late gestation ewes. The disease exists 
when the nutrient requirements of the growing lambs in the uterus exceed the 
nutrient intake of the ewe. Prevention- Ewes carrying twins need 180% more 
nutrient energy intake than ewes carrying singles and for ewes with triplets the 
number is 240%. (Shearing ewes before lambing increases feed intake and thus is 
beneficial in preventing ketosis.) Feeding grain starting at about six weeks 
before lambing and moving from poor quality hay is beneficial. With prolific 
ewes, grain, specifically corn, is necessary as the ewe does not have room in 
the abdomen for feed. Hope this is a help to you as it has been for us.
Cheryl and Daisey
Rise 'N' Shine Farm

Sheepletter is published 10 times yearly by Sheep World
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