Sheep Pneumonia: Welfare Impacts and Prevention in Flocks

Respiratory disease is one of the leading causes of welfare loss and economic cost in sheep farming worldwide.

Key Facts

Ovine respiratory disease complex (ORDC) involves multiple viruses and bacteria acting together
Maedi-Visna virus causes chronic progressive pneumonia in adult sheep with no cure
Pasteurella multocida and Mannheimia haemolytica are major bacterial contributors to pneumonia
Sheep with respiratory disease show reduced feed intake, weight loss, nasal discharge, and labored breathing
Poor ventilation, overcrowding, and stress from weaning or transport are major risk factors
Pneumonia is responsible for up to 20% of adult sheep deaths in some UK flocks

Welfare Considerations

Sheep with pneumonia endure significant respiratory distress, pain, and debilitation. Chronic forms like Maedi-Visna progress over months to years, with animals gradually wasting and struggling to breathe. Acute bacterial pneumonias can kill within days if untreated. The high prevalence of respiratory disease in sheep reflects systemic husbandry challenges — overcrowding, stress, and inadequate housing. Prevention requires attention to ventilation, biosecurity, and purchase testing. Early identification and treatment, including appropriate antibiotics and supportive care, are essential welfare measures. Culling decisions for chronically affected sheep must prioritize humane endpoints.

What You Can Do

Support welfare standards that require adequate housing and ventilation for sheep
Encourage farmers to test purchased sheep for Maedi-Visna before introducing them to flocks
Advocate for antibiotic stewardship in sheep farming to maintain treatment efficacy
Purchase lamb and wool from producers with documented respiratory health monitoring
Donate to veterinary research on improved vaccines against ovine respiratory pathogens
Support training programs that teach shepherds to recognize early signs of respiratory disease