Lameness is one of the most prevalent welfare problems in sheep, causing chronic pain that is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. Effective management requires early detection and prompt veterinary response.
Sheep lameness causes genuine and prolonged pain — validated pain assessment tools confirm that lame sheep show elevated pain indicators comparable to other painful conditions. The combination of stoic behaviour and extensive grazing systems means many lame sheep go undetected for extended periods, during which suffering is chronic and cumulative. Welfare-positive flock management requires active, regular lameness scoring, prompt treatment within days rather than weeks, and appropriate antibiotic stewardship alongside non-antibiotic management strategies.