Pentre Farm Project Update: Management of ewe nutritional needs to reduce health issues around lambing

Health issues around lambing associated with prolapses and mastitis have been a considerable problem at Pentre Farm demonstration site in recent years. The prevalence of prolapse in particular was high in 2020, resulting in three ewe deaths and a voluntary culling rate of 10% of the flock. The aim of this project is to target and correct these issues by considering various factors that influence the flock’s productivity and performance.

This year, data collection focused on establishing the prevalence of these diseases as well as undertaking a full audit of ewe body condition and nutritional inputs. Where possible, management changes were implemented to reduce the incidences of prolapse and mastitis in 2021. These management changes included dietary changes to ensure an appropriate ratio of macro minerals (calcium, phosphorus, magnesium) was supplied during pregnancy and lambing.

The number of prolapses was significantly lower in 2021 compared with 2020 figures, with incidences of prolapse occurring in 5% of the flock. A total of five ewes were recorded with mastitis. Milk samples have been taken where possible and will be analysed for bacterial culture with sensitivity testing to identify the organism responsible for mastitis.

It is believed that a combination of factors may be responsible for the occurrence of prolapses on the farm, including:

• Mineral deficiencies, e.g. insufficient calcium and magnesium supply in late pregnancy
• Ewe body condition score (BCS) prior to lambing – ewes carrying twin lambs in too good a condition in late pregnancy
• Genetic component
• Tail-docking length

Historical data in relation to ewe health and breeding will be analysed in preparation for next year in order to identify any year-on-year trends. The mineral calculations based on the flock’s diet will also be re-visited prior to further monitoring in 2022.