Ewe coughing and Aggression? Diagnosing sheep symptoms

[cfwindsfitchburg]

Hey there. I'm new to sheep and work at a farm with a small flock of 19.
Last week our large Ram died suddenly. Blood from mouth and blue torso - likely a lung puncture or burst. About a month before he died, he got much more aggressive than usual (headbutting other ram and people when they went to feed him). Didn't notice any coughing from him before his death.

I'm concerned now about our ewes who were bred with him in November-December/ whether what he has was a type of pnuemonia or something else contagious.
For the past month I've noticed some coughing in the flock. About once or twice a week from two different girls. I've also seen one of our Ewe's headbutting another ewe, which seemed to me like a strange behavior.

Is increased aggression a sign of sickness? And what other steps can I take to ensure health?

 

[secuono]

Idk about the rest, but he may of gotten aggressive because a ewe cycled and he couldn't get to her.

 

[Mini Horses]

I'm assuming no one elected to do a necropsy of ram, or have fluids/tissue tested for contagens -- would that be accurate? You work there, so actual decision not yours but you can see why that might have been a good move to insure health of herd.

Aggression can happen during breeding times, from males & females. Those coughing should be checked for possible infection. Untreated pneumonia can kill. Plus those could/should be isolated for treatment, if any. Certainly observation.

Every farm works & sees "issues" differently. You could mention the ewes coughing & possible "care" they may need to owners & ask if they feel any consideration for their handling is wanted. Good that you are noticing their demeanor & health is different

 

[Baymule]

The coughing could be lung worms.

 

[Mini Horses]

Agree...could be worms. When last dewormed?