Farm Animal Welfare

Sheep Welfare: Neonatal Lamb Welfare in the First 24 Hours

The first 24 hours of a lamb's life represent the most critical welfare period, with adequate colostrum intake, thermoregulation and bonding being paramount determinants of survival.

Key Facts

Lambs must receive adequate colostrum within 6 hours of birth for passive immunity transfer
Hypothermia is the leading cause of lamb mortality in the first 24 hours
Ewes reject approximately 5-10% of lambs in housed systems, requiring intervention
Mismothering is more common following assisted deliveries and twin births
Body weight at birth is a strong predictor of lamb survival - smaller lambs are at much higher risk

Welfare Considerations

Neonatal lamb welfare requires intensive shepherd supervision during the lambing period, particularly at night when ewes often lamb unobserved. Early intervention to ensure colostrum intake, hypothermia prevention and bonding support dramatically reduces both mortality and suffering. Investment in lambing infrastructure, trained staff and 24-hour checks significantly improves welfare outcomes during this critical window.

What You Can Do

Ensure lambing ewes are checked at least every 3-4 hours day and night
Have colostrum (frozen stored or artificial) available for lambs unable to nurse
Learn to identify early hypothermia signs and have warming boxes and feeding equipment ready
Support shepherd training in neonatal lamb welfare management