Twin Lamb Disease (Pregnancy Toxaemia): Welfare Emergency in Ewes

Pregnancy toxaemia causes severe metabolic distress in late-pregnancy ewes. Prompt treatment and prevention through nutritional management are welfare priorities.

Key Facts

Pregnancy toxaemia occurs in ewes carrying multiple lambs in late pregnancy
The high energy demands of late pregnancy in thin ewes overwhelm glucose production capacity
Affected ewes show progressive neurological signs: dullness, blindness, and eventual coma
Treatment with glucose IV and oral propylene glycol is effective when started early
Prevention through adequate nutrition in late pregnancy is more effective than treatment

Welfare Emergency of Pregnancy Toxaemia

Pregnancy toxaemia represents a rapidly progressive metabolic welfare emergency in late-pregnant ewes. As glucose deficiency develops, the ewe's central nervous system is affected — she becomes dull, stops eating, develops apparent blindness, grinds her teeth in discomfort, and progresses to recumbency and coma over 24-48 hours. Without treatment, the condition is fatal. Even with treatment, advanced cases carry poor prognosis.

The welfare burden of untreated pregnancy toxaemia includes progressive neurological distress, the welfare implications of pregnancy loss as the unborn lambs are compromised, and the discomfort of metabolic acidosis. Ewes in coma represent an acute welfare emergency requiring emergency veterinary treatment to have any chance of recovery.

What You Can Do

Ensure ewes carrying multiple lambs receive adequate nutrition in the final 6 weeks of pregnancy
Body condition score ewes at housing — thin ewes are highest risk and need targeted supplementation
Recognize early signs: lagging behind the flock, reduced appetite, apparent dullness
Administer oral propylene glycol at first signs and seek veterinary assessment immediately
Provide IV glucose for ewes showing neurological signs — this is a veterinary emergency