Small Ruminant Feeding Guide
Feeding in sheep and goats should be planned according to pasture conditions, season, and the animal’s production stage. Proper feeding directly affects the twinning rate, lamb/kid development, and milk yield.
Seasonal feeding
- Spring–summer: Pasture grass is rich in protein and water. To prevent bloat when transitioning to fresh pasture, animals should first be fed dry hay.
- Autumn: Pasture quality declines; supplementary feeding (“flushing”) can be applied for body condition before mating.
- Winter: The indoor period is spent with dry hay, silage, and concentrate feed; energy requirements increase due to cold weather.
Requirements according to production stages
- Pre-mating (2–3 weeks): Energy support can increase ovulation and twinning rates.
- Last 6 weeks of pregnancy: Most fetal development occurs during this period; energy and protein should be increased, and pregnancy toxemia should be monitored.
- Lactation: Energy and protein requirements are at their highest for milk yield; plenty of clean water should be provided.
Lamb and kid feeding
- Sufficient colostrum must be consumed within the first 6 hours after birth.
- Starting from the second week, lamb/kid starter feed and high-quality dry hay should be provided to support rumen development.
- Weaning should be done gradually, and stress should be minimized.
Minerals and vitamins
Sheep are sensitive to copper; mineral mixtures prepared for cattle or goats should not be given to sheep. Selenium and Vitamin E deficiency can lead to muscle diseases in lambs.
Common mistakes
- Inadequate feeding during the final stage of pregnancy
- Giving mineral mixtures containing copper to sheep
- Turning out hungry animals to wet or dew-covered pasture
This guide is for general information purposes. The ration varies according to the animal’s breed, age, production level, quality of roughage, and farm conditions. Consult your veterinarian or our technical team for recommendations specific to your farm.
