Care and Management of Pregnant Cows: Key Points

1. Nutrition

o Balanced Diet: Provide a high-quality diet with adequate energy, protein, vitamins,
and minerals to support both the cow and the developing calf.

o Increased Nutrient Requirements: As pregnancy progresses, increase the cow's

nutrient intake, especially in the last trimester (last 3 months of pregnancy).

o Minerals and Vitamins: Ensure adequate intake of calcium, phosphorus, and

magnesium for strong bones and proper fetal development.

o Clean Water: Always provide access to clean, fresh water to maintain hydration
and support milk production later.

2. Health and Veterinary Care

o Vaccination: Follow a recommended vaccination schedule to protect against

diseases (e.g., clostridial diseases, bovine viral diarrhea, etc.).

o Parasite Control: Deworm regularly as per veterinary advice to prevent internal

and external parasites.

o Monitor for Illness: Watch for signs of illness (fever, lack of appetite, swelling) and
consult a vet if any issues arise.

3. Body Condition Monitoring

o Maintain Optimal Body Condition: Aim for a body condition score (BCS) of 5-6 (on
a scale of 1-9) to ensure the cow is not too thin or overly fat. Poor body condition
can affect pregnancy outcomes.

o Avoid Overfeeding: Don’t overfeed pregnant cows, as excessive weight gain can
lead to calving difficulties (dystocia).

4. Monitoring Pregnancy

o Veterinary Confirmation: Confirm pregnancy early (via ultrasound or palpation) to

monitor calf development and ensure proper care.

o Pregnancy Checks: Regularly check for signs of health issues or complications

during the pregnancy, especially in the last trimester.

5. Comfortable Housing

o Clean, Dry Bedding: Provide clean, dry bedding to reduce the risk of infections and
support cow comfort as pregnancy progresses.

o Space: Ensure sufficient space for the pregnant cow to move freely, reducing stress
and risk of injury.

6. Avoid Stress

o Minimize Handling Stress: Reduce unnecessary handling and sudden changes in

routine to avoid stress, which can affect the cow's health and pregnancy.
 o Keep Away from Aggressive Animals: Pregnant cows should be housed away from
aggressive or dominant animals to avoid physical injury or stress.

7. Exercise

o Encourage Light Movement: Allow cows to move freely within the housing area or
grazing pasture to maintain muscle tone and avoid stiffness, especially as the
pregnancy progresses.

8. Calving Preparation

o Prepare for Calving: Ensure the cow is in a clean, safe, and quiet environment
when nearing calving. Set up a calving area that is well-lit and easily accessible for
assistance if needed.

o Monitor for Signs of Labor: Be alert for signs of approaching labor (e.g.,
restlessness, udder enlargement, mucous discharge) and be ready to assist during
the birthing process if needed.

9. Monitor for Pregnancy Complications

o Keep an Eye on Edema: Swelling of the legs or udder can indicate pregnancy
toxemia or other issues. Consult a vet if swelling becomes excessive.

o Watch for Preterm Labor: If a cow goes into labor prematurely or has difficulty
calving, seek veterinary assistance.

10. Record Keeping

o Maintain Pregnancy Records: Track the cow’s pregnancy status, due date,
vaccinations, and health treatments to ensure proper care throughout the
pregnancy.

o Calving Dates: Record the calving dates to help with future management and
breeding scheduling.

Care and Management of Milch Cows (Dairy Cows): Key Points

1. Nutrition

o Balanced Diet: Provide a well-balanced diet that includes high-quality forage

(grass, hay, silage) and concentrates (grains, protein sources) for optimal milk
production.

o Energy and Protein: Ensure cows get adequate energy and protein to meet the
demands of lactation.

o Minerals and Vitamins: Supply essential minerals (e.g., calcium, phosphorus,

magnesium) and vitamins (A, D, E) to support milk production and bone health.

o Clean Water: Always provide fresh, clean water in sufficient quantities, as dairy
cows drink large amounts, especially when lactating.

2. Health and Veterinary Care

 o Regular Health Checks: Monitor cows for signs of illness, including mastitis,
lameness, or digestive problems. Conduct regular health checks.

o Vaccination: Follow a proper vaccination schedule to protect against common

diseases (e.g., BVD, mastitis, foot-and-mouth).

o Parasite Control: Deworm and treat for external parasites regularly as

recommended by a veterinarian.

3. Udder Health and Mastitis Prevention

o Regular Milking Hygiene: Ensure milking equipment is clean and sanitized to

prevent infections. Clean the udder before milking and apply teat disinfectants
afterward.

o Mastitis Monitoring: Regularly check for signs of mastitis (e.g., swelling, heat, or
abnormal milk) and take immediate action if symptoms appear.

o Teat Care: Apply udder balm or a teat disinfectant to protect the teats from cracks
and irritation, especially in harsh weather.

4. Housing and Environment

o Comfortable Bedding: Provide clean, dry bedding (straw, sawdust, or sand) to

prevent infections and ensure comfort.

o Ventilation and Space: Ensure the cows have access to well-ventilated barns or
sheds with adequate space to move freely, reducing stress and risk of injury.

o Temperature Control: Ensure a comfortable temperature range, avoiding extreme

heat or cold, which can affect milk yield and cow health.

5. Milking Management

o Consistent Milking Routine: Maintain a regular milking schedule to reduce stress

and ensure consistent milk production. Milking should be done 2-3 times per day.

o Proper Milking Technique: Use proper milking techniques and equipment to avoid
injury to the cow and ensure efficient milk extraction.

o Record Milk Production: Track milk yield to monitor the cow’s health and identify
any changes that might indicate health issues.

6. Reproductive Management

o Breeding for Productivity: Use good-quality bulls (or artificial insemination) with
desirable traits for high milk production and disease resistance.

o Breeding Timing: Aim for efficient breeding cycles, with cows being bred 60-90
days after calving to maintain lactation cycles and productivity.

o Dry Period Management: Ensure cows have an adequate dry period (45-60 days)
between lactations to rest and rejuvenate their udders before the next calving.

7. Exercise and Socialization

 o Free Movement: Allow cows to move around and exercise freely to maintain
muscle tone and reduce stress.

o Social Interaction: House cows in groups to encourage natural social behavior and
reduce stress from isolation.

8. Lameness Prevention

o Hoof Care: Regularly inspect and trim hooves to prevent lameness, which can
reduce milk production and affect mobility.

o Provide Soft Flooring: Ensure that cows have soft flooring (rubber mats, soft
bedding) to reduce pressure on their hooves.

9. Stress Reduction

o Minimize Stress: Avoid abrupt changes in diet, housing, or routine. Reduce loud
noises and sudden movements that can cause anxiety and lower milk production.

o Handling: Handle cows gently and calmly to prevent stress and ensure smooth
milking and management processes.

10. Record Keeping

o Milk Yield Records: Maintain records of individual milk yields to monitor

productivity and identify any health concerns.

o Health and Reproduction Records: Keep detailed records of vaccinations, health

treatments, and breeding dates to manage the cow’s overall health and
reproductive performance.

Care and Management of Calves: Key Points

1. Colostrum Feeding

o Feed high-quality colostrum within the first 2 hours of life (10-12% of body weight).

o Ensure proper colostrum intake to boost immunity.

2. Milk Feeding

o Feed milk or replacer (10-12% of body weight daily, divided into 2-3 feedings).

o Transition to solid feed (grain, hay) by 2-3 weeks of age.

3. Health Management

o Ensure a clean, dry, and well-ventilated environment.

o Vaccinate as per veterinarian recommendations.

o Monitor for common illnesses like scours (diarrhea) and pneumonia.

4. Navel Care

o Treat the navel with an antiseptic (e.g., iodine) to prevent infections.

 5. Housing and Environment

o Provide clean, dry bedding (straw or shavings).

o Ensure a warm, draft-free environment, especially in colder weather.

6. Parasite Control

o Deworm as needed, according to veterinarian advice.

7. Weaning

o Gradually reduce milk intake at 8-12 weeks; introduce solid feed.

o Monitor body condition during the weaning process.

8. Handling and Socialization

o Handle calves gently to build trust and reduce stress.

o Allow social interaction with other calves for mental well-being.

9. Growth Monitoring

o Regularly weigh calves and track growth.

o Monitor for signs of underfeeding or illness (poor appetite, diarrhea, lethargy).

10. Stress Management

o Minimize stress from handling, weaning, and transport to promote healthy growth.

11. Record Keeping

o Keep detailed records of vaccinations, growth, and any treatments or illnesses.

Care and Management of Heifers: Key Points

1. Nutrition

o Provide a balanced diet with adequate energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals.

o Ensure access to clean water at all times.

o Gradually introduce high-quality forage (hay, silage) and grain as they grow.

2. Growth Monitoring

o Regularly weigh heifers to ensure proper growth rates.

o Aim for consistent, healthy weight gain to reach breeding size at around 12-15
months.

3. Vaccination and Health Care

o Follow a veterinarian-recommended vaccination schedule (e.g., for respiratory and

reproductive diseases).

o Regularly check for parasites and deworm as needed.

o Monitor for signs of illness (e.g., coughing, diarrhea, lethargy).

 4. Reproductive Management

o Ensure proper nutrition and body condition for breeding (ideal weight for breeding:
65-70% of mature body weight).

o Introduce heifers to the bull at 12-15 months of age, depending on breed and size.

o Monitor estrus cycles to ensure successful breeding.

5. Housing

o Provide clean, dry, and well-ventilated housing with adequate space to reduce stress.

o Use proper bedding to keep the environment dry and comfortable.

6. Socialization

o Group heifers with other heifers to encourage natural social behaviors.

o Minimize stress by avoiding overcrowding and sudden changes in environment.

7. Exercise

o Provide space for heifers to roam and exercise to develop strong muscles and bones.

8. Foot and Leg Care

o Regularly check hooves and trim if necessary to prevent lameness or injury.

o Monitor for signs of leg issues, as proper alignment is crucial for future productivity.

9. Record Keeping

o Maintain records of vaccinations, breeding, weight, and health treatments.

10. Stress Reduction

o Minimize handling stress and avoid over-crowding, as stress can impact growth,
health, and future productivity.

Care and Management of Bulls: Key Points

1. Nutrition

o Provide a balanced diet with high-quality forage (hay, silage) and grain for optimal
growth and health.

o Ensure adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals, especially for reproductive health.

o Monitor body condition and adjust feed as needed to maintain an optimal weight for
breeding.

2. Health and Vaccination

o Follow a veterinarian-recommended vaccination schedule (e.g., for respiratory

diseases, clostridial infections, etc.).

o Perform regular health checks and monitor for signs of illness (e.g., lameness, fever,
loss of appetite).
 o Deworm periodically and monitor for parasites.

3. Reproductive Management

o Maintain breeding soundness through regular semen analysis and physical exams.

o Ensure bulls are in peak condition before breeding season (e.g., healthy weight, good
semen quality).

o Manage breeding periods to prevent overuse and reduce stress during mating
seasons.

4. Housing and Environment

o Provide clean, dry, and spacious housing to reduce stress and injury.

o Ensure bulls have access to clean water, and keep living spaces well-ventilated.

o If housing in groups, monitor social dynamics to prevent aggression.

5. Exercise and Mental Stimulation

o Allow bulls access to ample space for exercise to maintain strong muscles and overall
fitness.

o Minimize confinement to reduce stress and potential behavioral problems.

6. Foot and Leg Care

o Regularly check hooves for wear or injury and trim as necessary to prevent
lameness.

o Monitor gait for signs of discomfort or lameness.

7. Behavioural Management

o Handle bulls with care and respect. They can be aggressive, so always use proper
handling equipment (e.g., headlocks, chutes) when necessary.

o Implement safe handling practices to reduce stress and prevent injury to both the
bull and handlers.

8. Breeding Management

o Rotate breeding bulls to prevent overuse and reduce the risk of genetic defects.

o Use proven, healthy bulls with good genetics for reproduction purposes.

o Track breeding dates and monitor for signs of fertility issues.

9. Record Keeping

o Maintain accurate records of breeding, health treatments, vaccinations, and any

behavioral issues.

10. Stress Management

o Avoid overcrowding and ensure bulls have sufficient space and minimal disturbances
to reduce stress and aggression.
 o Provide routine, calm handling to build trust and minimize risk of injury.

Raising Piglets Up to Slaughter: Key Points

1. At Birth

o Ensure clean, dry, and safe environment for piglets.

o Allow piglets to receive colostrum within the first few hours for immunity.

o Disinfect the umbilical cord to prevent infection.

2. 0-3 Weeks (Post-Birth)

o Ensure piglets have access to the sow’s milk.

o Provide supplemental iron to prevent anemia.

o Maintain a warm environment (30-32°C) for optimal growth.

o Start introducing creep feed around 2-3 weeks to supplement milk.

3. Weaning (3-4 Weeks)

o Gradually introduce solid feed (starter feed) as piglets transition from milk.

o Provide fresh water and ensure piglets adapt to new diets.

o Maintain clean, dry housing and ensure good ventilation.

4. 4-10 Weeks (Early Growth)

o Feed high-quality starter feed rich in protein for rapid growth.

o Regularly monitor health and treat for parasites.

o Keep the environment clean to reduce disease risk.

5. 10-20 Weeks (Grower Phase)

o Transition to grower feed with slightly lower protein levels.

o Ensure proper space and ventilation to prevent overcrowding.

o Monitor daily weight gain and health status (0.5-1 kg/day).

6. 20-24 Weeks (Finisher Phase)

o Switch to finisher feed high in energy (corn, barley) to promote fat deposition.

o Continue monitoring health and growth rates to reach target market weight (90-120
kg).

o Keep pigs comfortable with proper bedding and space.

7. Pre-Slaughter (24 Weeks)

o Withdraw feed for 12-24 hours before slaughter, but provide water.

o Perform final health check to ensure no diseases or injuries.

 o Transport pigs to slaughterhouse calmly and stress-free.

Care and Management of Sows and Boars

Sows (female pigs) and boars (male pigs) are essential components of a breeding program. Proper
care and management of these animals ensure optimal reproductive performance, good health, and
high productivity. Below are the key points for managing sows and boars:

Care and Management of Sows

1. Nutrition

o Balanced Diet: Provide a well-balanced diet with adequate energy, protein, vitamins,
and minerals tailored to the sow's reproductive stage.

▪ Pre-breeding: Ensure proper nutrition to maintain optimal body condition.

▪ Gestation: Adjust feed to meet the increased nutritional needs during

pregnancy, focusing on energy, protein, and calcium.

▪ Lactation: Increase energy and protein intake to support milk production

and meet the needs of the piglets.

o Clean Water: Provide fresh, clean water at all times to support digestion and milk
production.

2. Housing

o Comfortable and Clean Pen: Ensure the sow has access to a clean, dry, and
comfortable pen to reduce stress and prevent injury.

o Space: Provide adequate space for the sow to move comfortably, especially during
pregnancy and lactation.

o Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation to prevent respiratory issues and to maintain a

comfortable temperature (18-22°C or 64-72°F).

3. Health and Veterinary Care

o Vaccination: Follow a regular vaccination schedule to protect sows from diseases

such as swine influenza, erysipelas, and leptospirosis.

o Parasite Control: Regularly deworm sows and treat for external parasites (e.g., lice,
mites).

o Monitor Health: Regularly check for signs of illness, including fever, lameness, or
mastitis (inflammation of the udder).

o Reproductive Health: Monitor for signs of heat (estrus) and ensure proper breeding
timing. Be alert to signs of reproductive issues like dystocia (difficult birth).

4. Breeding Management

o Heat Detection: Use visual signs and behavioral changes (e.g., restlessness,
mounting) to detect heat and ensure successful breeding.
 o Artificial Insemination (AI) or Natural Service: Depending on your system, breed
sows using AI or a high-quality boar.

o Boar Exposure: Expose the sow to the boar 2-3 times for successful breeding.

5. Gestation Management

o Monitor Pregnancy: Confirm pregnancy via ultrasound or other methods at around

30-35 days post-breeding.

o Nutrition During Gestation: Ensure the sow receives appropriate nutrition to avoid
overfeeding (leading to obesity) or underfeeding (leading to poor fetal
development).

o Stress-Free Environment: Minimize stress during gestation, as stress can affect fetal
development and cause early labor.

6. Lactation Management

o Postpartum Care: After farrowing, ensure sows have access to high-quality feed and
clean water to support milk production.

o Teat Care: Monitor for mastitis and ensure that piglets are nursing properly from all
teats.

o Farrowing Pen: Provide a farrowing crate or suitable pen that allows the sow to
move but prevents crushing of piglets.

7. Post-Farrowing

o Weaning: Wean piglets at around 3-4 weeks. After weaning, allow the sow some rest
before the next breeding cycle (30-60 days of recovery time is typical).

Care and Management of Boars

1. Nutrition

o Balanced Diet: Provide a high-quality, well-balanced diet with sufficient protein,

energy, vitamins, and minerals to maintain good health and reproductive
performance.

o Body Condition: Keep boars at a healthy weight and body condition. Avoid obesity,
as it can impair fertility and stamina.

o Fresh Water: Ensure access to clean, fresh water at all times.

2. Housing

o Adequate Space: Provide sufficient space for boars to move around comfortably,
with separate pens for rest and breeding activities.

o Clean, Dry Environment: Maintain cleanliness and dry bedding to avoid infections
and foot issues.
 o Temperature Control: Boars are more susceptible to heat stress. Maintain a cool,
shaded area to avoid overheating (optimal temperature range: 18-22°C or 64-72°F).

3. Health and Veterinary Care

o Regular Health Checks: Monitor boars for signs of illness, including reproductive
issues, lameness, or infection. Regular veterinary visits are essential.

o Vaccination: Ensure boars are vaccinated according to the farm's health plan,
including protection against common diseases like PRRS (Porcine Reproductive and
Respiratory Syndrome) and leptospirosis.

o Parasite Control: Regularly deworm boars to prevent internal and external parasites.

4. Breeding Management

o Semen Collection (AI): If using AI, collect semen from the boar in a sterile
environment and handle it carefully to maintain sperm quality.

o Breeding Frequency: Boars should not be overused. A healthy boar can mate 10-15
sows per week, depending on breed and reproductive health.

o Breeding Behavior: Ensure boars are aggressive enough to perform natural service if
used. Monitor for signs of infertility or loss of interest in breeding.

5. Reproductive Performance

o Monitor Fertility: Track the fertility performance of boars by recording breeding

results (e.g., pregnancy rates, number of sows bred).

o Signs of Infertility: If a boar shows signs of infertility (e.g., low semen quality,
reduced mating interest), have it tested for health and fertility issues.

o Keep Boar Healthy: Manage stress, maintain optimal body condition, and ensure the
boar is not overworked, all of which contribute to healthy sperm production.

6. Stress Management

o Minimize Stress: Avoid excessive handling or disruptive changes in the boar’s

environment, as stress can affect breeding performance and overall health.

o Socialization: Keep boars away from aggressive or dominant animals, as boars are
territorial and may experience stress if housed near other males.

Care and Management of Kids (Goats) and Lambs (Sheep): Key Points

1. Care and Management of Kids (Goats)

1. At Birth

o Clean Environment: Ensure kids are born in a clean, dry, and warm area to prevent
infections and hypothermia.

o Colostrum Intake: Ensure kids receive colostrum within the first few hours for
immunity. This is critical for their health and survival.
 o Umbilical Cord Care: Disinfect the umbilical cord to prevent infection.

2. Early Care (0-2 Weeks)

o Nursing: Ensure kids have access to their mother’s milk or, if necessary, use a high-
quality milk replacer.

o Temperature Control: Keep kids warm (around 30°C or 86°F) in the first few days to
avoid cold stress.

o Health Checks: Monitor for signs of weakness, diarrhea, or dehydration and take
action immediately.

3. Weaning (6-8 Weeks)

o Gradual Weaning: Gradually reduce milk intake and introduce solid feed (grain, hay,
and fresh forage) to ensure proper digestion.

o Fresh Water: Provide clean, fresh water at all times to support digestion and growth.

o Vaccination: Start vaccinations as recommended by a veterinarian (e.g., clostridial

diseases, pasteurellosis).

4. Growth and Development (2-6 Months)

o Balanced Diet: Provide high-quality forage (grass, hay) and concentrate feed to
promote healthy growth.

o Parasite Control: Regular deworming and vaccination to prevent internal and

external parasites.

o Socialization: Ensure kids have enough space to move freely and interact with other
kids to reduce stress and encourage natural behavior.

5. Pre-Production Care (6-12 Months)

o Breeding Readiness: Female kids (doelings) are generally ready for breeding at 7-12
months, depending on their size and breed.

o Body Condition: Maintain a healthy body condition score (BCS) to ensure they are
ready for breeding or future milk production.

2. Care and Management of Lambs (Sheep)

1. At Birth

o Clean and Dry Environment: Ensure lambs are born in a clean, dry area to reduce
the risk of disease.

o Colostrum Intake: Ensure lambs suckle colostrum within the first few hours to
provide essential immunity.

o Umbilical Cord Care: Disinfect the umbilical cord to prevent infection.

2. Early Care (0-2 Weeks)

 o Mother’s Milk or Milk Replacer: Lambs should be kept on the ewe’s milk for at least
3-4 weeks. If the ewe is unavailable, provide a good-quality milk replacer.

o Warm Environment: Keep lambs warm (ideally 30-35°C or 86-95°F) to prevent

hypothermia, especially during cold weather.

o Health Monitoring: Monitor for signs of diarrhea, dehydration, or weakness and act
quickly if any issues arise.

3. Weaning (4-6 Weeks)

o Introduce Solid Feed: Gradually introduce hay, grass, and grain to lambs, and ensure
they have access to fresh water.

o Weaning Process: Gradually reduce milk intake to avoid stress. Weaning typically
happens between 4-6 weeks, depending on the lamb’s condition.

4. Growth and Development (6-12 Weeks)

o Balanced Diet: Provide good quality forage (grass, hay) and concentrate feed to
support healthy growth.

o Parasite Control: Deworm lambs regularly to prevent internal parasites like

roundworms and tapeworms.

o Vaccination: Start vaccination programs for diseases such as clostridial diseases and
lamb dysentery as recommended by your veterinarian.

5. Finishing Stage (3-6 Months)

o Weight Gain: Ensure lambs are gaining weight steadily and provide a high-energy
diet to support growth.

o Health Monitoring: Watch for signs of ill health (e.g., scours, respiratory issues) and
address them immediately.

o Shelter: Provide clean, dry shelter to protect lambs from extreme weather
conditions.

6. Pre-Slaughter Care (6-8 Months)

o Target Market Weight: Lambs are typically ready for slaughter between 6-8 months,
depending on breed and feeding.

o Feed Withdrawal: Withhold feed for 12-24 hours before slaughter (but ensure water
is available) to improve meat quality.

o Transport to Slaughterhouse: Minimize stress during transport to the

slaughterhouse to ensure high-quality meat.

Care and Management of Goats and Sheep: Key Points

1. Care and Management of Goats

1. Housing and Shelter

 o Clean, Dry, and Ventilated: Provide shelter that is dry, clean, and well-ventilated to
prevent respiratory issues and infections.

o Space: Ensure goats have enough space to move freely; overcrowding can cause
stress and health problems.

o Security: Secure fencing to prevent escapes and protect from predators.

2. Nutrition

o Balanced Diet: Provide a well-balanced diet with forage (grass, hay), grains, and
minerals. Goats are browsers, so they enjoy variety in their diet.

o Fresh Water: Ensure access to clean, fresh water at all times.

o Supplements: Provide additional minerals and vitamins, especially in areas where

soil deficiencies may occur.

3. Health and Veterinary Care

o Vaccination: Follow a vaccination schedule for common diseases like clostridial

diseases, tetanus, and rabies.

o Deworming: Regularly deworm goats to prevent internal parasites, particularly in

young kids.

o Parasite Control: Monitor for external parasites such as lice, mites, and ticks.

o Foot Care: Regularly trim hooves to prevent foot rot and other hoof issues.

4. Breeding and Reproduction

o Estrus Detection: Female goats (does) are typically ready for breeding at 7-12
months, depending on breed and size. Look for signs of heat.

o Mating: Can be done naturally or via artificial insemination (AI). Ensure good boar
(buck) selection for better offspring health.

o Pregnancy Care: Provide proper nutrition during pregnancy, especially in the last
trimester. Ensure a clean, safe environment for kidding.

5. Farming Practices

o Socialization: Goats are social animals, so house them in groups to reduce stress and
encourage natural behaviors.

o Cleanliness: Keep the goats’ environment clean and dry to prevent the spread of
diseases.

o Stress Reduction: Handle goats gently and avoid loud noises or sudden movements
that can cause stress.

2. Care and Management of Sheep

1. Housing and Shelter

 o Dry and Clean Housing: Provide shelter to protect sheep from harsh weather. A
clean, dry environment reduces the risk of diseases like pneumonia.

o Space Requirements: Provide adequate space for movement, grazing, and social
interactions. Sheep are flock animals and need companionship.

o Secure Fencing: Use secure fencing to keep sheep in and protect them from
predators.

2. Nutrition

o Balanced Diet: Offer a diet of good quality forage (grass, hay), supplemented with
grains during lambing or for pregnant ewes. Provide mineral supplements as needed.

o Fresh Water: Access to clean, fresh water should always be available.

o Salt and Minerals: Provide salt and mineral blocks to ensure proper nutrition.

3. Health and Veterinary Care

o Vaccination: Vaccinate sheep against diseases like clostridial diseases, foot rot, and
bluetongue as per a recommended schedule.

o Deworming: Regular deworming is essential to control internal parasites, especially

during the lambing season.

o Foot Care: Trim hooves regularly to prevent foot rot and other hoof diseases.

o Shearing: Sheep should be sheared annually to prevent heat stress and maintain
wool quality.

4. Breeding and Reproduction

o Breeding Season: Ewes are typically bred in the fall (seasonal breeders). Monitor for
signs of heat and ensure good ram selection.

o Pregnancy and Lambing Care: Provide proper nutrition during pregnancy. Lambing
pens should be clean, dry, and spacious for ease of delivery.

o Lambing Assistance: Be prepared to assist with lambing if necessary, especially in

cases of dystocia (difficult birth).

5. Farming Practices

o Flock Management: Keep sheep in flocks to ensure they feel secure. Monitor
individual animals for signs of illness or poor growth.

o Cleanliness: Ensure the sheep's environment is free from waste, wet bedding, and
other conditions that encourage disease.

o Parasite and Disease Monitoring: Regularly inspect sheep for signs of internal and
external parasites, and treat promptly.