Causes and preventive measures of lack of milk in ewes
Lack of milk in ewes is a common issue that can significantly affect lamb survival and overall productivity. Several factors contribute to this problem, including poor breed quality and improper management practices.
First, the quality of the sheep variety plays a key role. Many farmer-raised breeds have inconsistent traits, with some ewes suffering from low milk production due to issues such as sagging breasts, short or poorly developed nipples, and underdeveloped udders. These physical characteristics make it difficult for them to produce sufficient milk for their lambs.
Second, outdated rearing methods and inadequate postpartum care also contribute to the problem. Poor nutrition, lack of proper feeding schedules, and insufficient attention to the health of the ewe after birth can lead to reduced milk yield.
To prevent this issue, several strategies should be implemented:
1. **Select high-quality sheep**: When choosing ewes, look for those with small heads, wide necks, straight backs, and well-developed udders. The udder should be symmetrical, with a deep and wide attachment, soft and elastic skin, and properly shaped teats. A healthy ewe should also have a shiny coat, strong limbs, and good overall body condition.
2. **Improve daily management**:
- **Feed scientifically**: Provide a balanced diet with a focus on roughage first, followed by concentrates. Ensure feed is fresh, clean, and free from spoilage. Maintain a stable feeding routine and avoid sudden changes.
- **Provide clean water**: Ewes require about 10–12% of their body weight in water daily. Always ensure access to clean, fresh water, especially after lambing.
- **Control environmental conditions**: Increase light exposure to stimulate milk production. In summer, keep temperatures below 30°C and humidity under 70%. In winter, maintain a temperature above 8°C and humidity around 55%.
- **Prevent diseases**: Follow vaccination schedules and monitor for mastitis and external parasites regularly.
3. **Postpartum care is crucial**:
- Clean the udder and teats with warm, sterile water before and after milking.
- Feed the ewe a mixture of soybean pulp and warm water to support lactation.
- Use medications that promote milk production and prevent infection, such as "Production Treasure."
4. **Ensure adequate nutrition**:
- Feed should be primarily grass-based, with supplements added as needed. Roughage should make up at least 60% of the diet, while concentrates should not exceed 40%.
- Follow five key principles: diversity in feed types, quality assurance, sufficient quantity, nutritional balance, and consistent supply throughout the year.
- During late pregnancy, provide extra nutrients to support fetal growth and improve milk production. This includes feeding wild hay, silage, and a balanced concentrate mix containing corn, soybean meal, bran, salt, minerals, and premixes.
By implementing these measures, farmers can significantly improve milk production in ewes, leading to healthier lambs and better overall flock performance.
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