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Newborn lamb nursing six methods
First, umbilical cord disinfection. Over the years, some lambs have suffered from tetanus due to improper care after birth. This often happens because the tools used to cut the umbilical cord are not properly sterilized or the area is not cleaned adequately. Tetanus bacteria can enter through the umbilical wound and cause serious illness. To prevent this, immediately after birth, the lamb’s navel should be cleaned with 3% hydrogen peroxide to remove any dirt or bacteria. Use sterile scissors to cut the umbilical cord, and clamp it about 5 cm away from the body. Then, apply 3% iodine to the exposed end to further reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, administering a subcutaneous injection of 1,500 units of tetanus antitoxin can help provide passive immunity to the lamb.
Second, drying and keeping warm. Once the lamb is born, it's important to clean its mouth, nose, eyes, and ears with a clean cloth to remove mucus. This helps the lamb breathe more easily and encourages the ewe to lick it. If the ewe doesn’t show interest, you can sprinkle some bran on the lamb or rub the ewe’s mucus onto its body to stimulate licking. Afterward, use a heat source like a heater or fire to dry the lamb’s fur quickly and keep it warm, which is essential for its survival in cold conditions.
Third, emergency rescue. If a lamb is born in a state of suspended animation or has trouble breathing, gently wipe its face with a clean cloth to clear the airway. If mucus is blocking the nose or mouth, hold the lamb upside down by its hind legs and gently tap its chest to help expel the mucus. If that doesn’t work, insert a soft rubber tube into its throat to suction out the mucus. In cases of hypothermia during cold weather, place the lamb in warm water at around 38°C, gradually increasing the temperature to 40–42°C. Soak the lamb for 20–30 minutes, then dry it quickly and move it to a warm, sheltered area.
Fourth, early milk intake. It's crucial for lambs to consume colostrum as soon as possible after birth. Colostrum, the first milk produced by the ewe within the first week, is rich in antibodies, nutrients, and minerals that boost the lamb’s immune system and support healthy growth. Encourage the lamb to nurse within the first few hours to ensure it receives these vital benefits.
Fifth, maintaining warmth. Lambs have underdeveloped thermoregulation systems, making them vulnerable to cold, especially in unpredictable spring weather. Ensure their living area is well-ventilated but protected from wind and rain. Keep the shed clean and dry, and cover the lambs with hay or dry soil for insulation. During cold or rainy days, use thick straw curtains to block drafts and maintain warmth. Allow the lambs to spend time outdoors during the day to get fresh air and sunlight, which helps in vitamin D synthesis and overall health development.
Sixth, timely feeding. In the first month, lambs mainly depend on their mother’s milk. However, as they grow, their nutritional needs increase beyond what the mother can provide. Around 15 days old, introduce small amounts of fresh grass or hay to their diet. Gradually transition to a more solid feed, such as ground beans mixed with a little goat’s milk and warm water to form a paste. Offer this in a shallow dish so the lamb can smell and taste it. Over the next few days, the lamb will begin to eat on its own, and the amount can be increased while slowly replacing the milk with proper lamb feed.