Pregnancy toxemia, or twin lamb disease, is a metabolic condition affecting late-pregnant ewes that causes severe suffering and high mortality without prompt intervention.
Pregnancy toxemia causes profound suffering as the ewe's body breaks down fat reserves in a dangerous attempt to meet energy demands. The resulting ketone accumulation causes neurological symptoms including disorientation, blindness, and seizures. Affected ewes may be unable to stand, becoming recumbent and unable to access feed or water. The condition progresses rapidly if untreated, with most untreated animals dying within days. The welfare implications extend to the unborn lambs, who may be born weak or stillborn. Prevention is highly effective - regular body condition scoring and appropriate supplementary feeding in late pregnancy can almost eliminate the condition.