Farm Animal Welfare

Sheep Colostrum and Neonatal Welfare

Adequate colostrum intake in lambs within the first 12-24 hours of life is the single most important determinant of neonatal survival.

Key Facts

Lambs are born with almost no circulating antibodies and depend entirely on colostrum for immunity
The absorption window for colostrum antibodies closes within 24 hours of birth
Colostrum quality and quantity vary between ewes - thin ewes and those with twins may produce less
Stored colostrum from previous seasons or bovine colostrum can supplement deficit lambs
Hypothermic lambs cannot absorb colostrum effectively requiring warming before feeding

Welfare Considerations

Colostrum management is the foundation of neonatal lamb welfare. Ensuring every lamb receives adequate colostrum within the first hours of life prevents both neonatal mortality and the immune deficiency that drives welfare problems throughout the lamb's life.

What You Can Do

Support sheep farms with structured colostrum management protocols
Advocate for neonatal lamb welfare standards incorporating colostrum monitoring
Choose lamb from farms demonstrating low neonatal mortality rates