Farm Animal Welfare

Sheep Ewe Reproductive Health and Welfare

Reproductive problems including prolapse, pregnancy failure, and mastitis cause significant welfare costs in breeding ewes.

Key Facts

Vaginal prolapse affects up to 3% of ewes in some flocks and causes acute pain
Ewes with prolapse require immediate veterinary attention to prevent progression
Mastitis in ewes causes udder pain and can prevent lamb nursing
Pregnancy diagnosis allows targeted management of at-risk ewes
Culling decisions for chronic reproductive problems should consider animal welfare

Welfare Considerations

Reproductive welfare problems cause acute and chronic pain in affected ewes and threaten lamb welfare through inadequate nutrition. Prolapse and mastitis are welfare emergencies requiring prompt veterinary attention. Prevention through body condition management, appropriate nutrition, and genetic selection for prolapse resistance reduces the incidence of these painful conditions.

What You Can Do

Train farm staff to recognise and respond to reproductive emergencies
Support genetic selection programmes for reduced prolapse incidence
Advocate for reproductive health monitoring in sheep welfare standards