Cultivation of fattening lambs
Changzhou Timerein Biotechnology Co. , Ltd. , https://www.timereinbiotech.com
The feeding requirements for pregnant ewes are generally lower during the early stages of pregnancy, as fetal development is relatively slow. During the grazing season, they usually do not require additional feed beyond what they can obtain from pasture. However, in the dry season, they can be fed with straw or hay to meet their basic nutritional needs. As the pregnancy progresses into its later stages, the fetus grows rapidly, so it's important to ensure a balanced and nutrient-rich diet. In addition to regular grazing, it's recommended to provide 1-1.5 kg of hay, 1.5 kg of silage, and 0.45 kg of concentrate feed daily. The concentrate should include ingredients like cornmeal, soybean meal, bone meal, or shell powder, along with salt, vitamins, and minerals. It’s also essential to allow them regular exercise and access to sunlight, while ensuring clean and fresh drinking water is always available. The sheep housing should be kept clean, dry, well-ventilated, and comfortable, with adequate shade in summer and warmth in winter.
For lactating ewes, feeding strategies vary depending on whether they are nursing one lamb or twins. Ewes with twins should receive an additional 0.6 kg of concentrate feed per day between February and March postpartum, and 0.4 kg after April. Single-lambing ewes should get 0.5 kg of concentrate between February and March, and 0.3 kg after April. Additionally, ewes with twins should be given 1 kg of high-quality hay, while those with single lambs should receive 1 kg of a mix of quality hay and wild grass. During late lactation, in addition to grazing, some hay can be offered, and concentrate feed can be provided every few days to maintain energy levels.
During the lambing period (birth to 10 days old), the birthing area must be clean, dry, and well-ventilated, with a temperature above 8°C. Lambs should be encouraged to nurse colostrum within the first hour of birth. If the lamb is weak or if there are multiple births, artificial feeding with milk may be necessary twice a day. From day 11 to 30, lambs should be introduced to forage to stimulate rumen function and support digestive system development. On day 10, a small amount of concentrate feed—made up of 20% soybean meal, 25% bran, 52% corn, 0.5% salt, and trace minerals and vitamins—can be given as boiled porridge, starting at 50-75 grams per day and gradually increasing. By day 20, small amounts of peanuts, eucalyptus leaves, and other forages can be introduced.
From day 31 until weaning, lambs should be allowed to graze with the flock to build their grazing skills and improve their ability to eat solid food. To encourage rumen development, it’s important not to overfeed them with high-moisture green feeds. This gradual approach helps ensure healthy growth and strong immunity as they transition to a fully independent diet.