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It is usual to feed a compound ration in the last 4-8 weeks before lambing. The objective is to increase the energy concentration of the ration when the ewe's requirements are rising rapidly and the rumen volume may be reducing because of the rapid foetal growth.
It is important to condition score ewes 8 weeks before lambing. Aim for a score of 2.5 -3. Any ewes below 2.5 should be drawn out and given preferential feeding.
To meet the accelerating requirements of the ewe good quality forage must be fed and the level of concentrates gradually increased to support the growth of the unborn lamb(s) and the development of udder tissue.
Ewes should come to lambing in a good but not over fat condition resulting in strong, healthy lambs at birth. This should also help to prevent pregnancy toxaemia (twin lamb disease) which can occur when the energy demands of the ewe are not fully satisfied.
An example ration would be 1.3kg of good quality hay and .6 kg of compound
feed.
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