Farm Animals

Sheep Ewe Reproductive Management Welfare

Reproductive welfare in ewes includes pain during lambing, management of difficult births, and post-lambing recovery, with active supervision and skilled intervention preventing needless suffering.

Key Facts

Dystocia (difficult birth) is the leading cause of acute pain and mortality in lambing ewes
Lambing supervision catching problems early reduces mortality by over 50%
Epidural anaesthesia and NSAIDs reduce pain during prolonged or difficult births
Caesarean section when necessary should always be performed with appropriate anaesthesia
Post-lambing uterine prolapse requires immediate veterinary attention to prevent fatality

Welfare Considerations

Lambing causes significant pain and risk that skilled supervision and early intervention substantially reduce. Investment in lambing expertise prevents enormous suffering for ewes and lambs.

What You Can Do

Ensure adequate staffing and supervision throughout the lambing period
Train staff in safe and humane lambing assistance techniques
Use appropriate analgesia for difficult births and post-lambing complications
Have a vet contact on standby for emergencies during lambing