Ewe in trouble

[jhm47]

Pregnancy disease is quite common in bred ewes. Because sheep have relatively small digestive tracts, their intestines become increasingly cramped as the lambs grow. The ewes eventually become malnourished, even though they might be eating good quality hay or grass. The ewe needs a more nutrient dense ration (grain, such as corn) that can be quickly be digested in less space. Some people mistakenly think that by limiting the energy, the ewes will have smaller lambs, thus promoting easier births. Actually, the opposite is true, as the ewes will not have the strength to expel the lambs.

 

[McFarmer]

My ewe's are responding to the increased grains... but should I be doing anything for the one that has been down for the past week? I am not sure if I should be helping her to at least flex her leg muscles etc. I'd feel awful bad if she ended up not being able to get up and move around after all she's been going through.

Cheers.

 

[big brown horse]

That is what I'm doing with mine. Getting her to stand up and move a bit about 4-5 times a day. If your ewe has been down a week, she may be pretty weak.

She is still pregnant, right? She will need to be able to stand to give birth, at least part of the time. I think you are going to have to help her during the delivery too.

 

[20kidsonhill]

I would have a vet come out and give her IV Calcium infusions. This will help her a lot


also,


2 to 3 oz of Propylene glycol given 2 to 3 times a day orally.
Also probiotics or yogurt mixed with some water.

IV calcium/glucos administered by a vet.

Other high energy drenches,
nutri-drench
dextrose
or
(1 part molasses, to 2 parts Kayro, to 1 parts corn oil)

also recommended to give Vit B complex injections.

Get her up, as soon as possible, exercise is important

Once back on feed, she will need higher energy from alfalfa hay, corn until she lambs.
.

 

[20kidsonhill]

You can also use the calcium infusion product sub-Q on your own, doesn't work as fast, but should see improvements in a couple hours.

You administer a total of 50cc sub-Q in 5 different locations 10cc at a time.

Since this product is RX you would still need to get your vets approval. Ours will easily sell it to us without having to make a farm visit.

You use it twice a day, for 2 or 3 days, but they should respond very quickly. Like with in a couple hours.