Livestock

Winter Housing Welfare in Sheep

Housing sheep in winter requires careful management to maintain welfare, with challenges around ventilation, stocking density, nutrition and the prevention of respiratory disease.

Key Facts

Winter housing of ewes typically occurs from December through to lambing in spring
Poor ventilation is a leading cause of respiratory disease in housed sheep
Adequate space allowances per ewe are critical to prevent competition and injury
Nutrition management during late pregnancy is critical for ewe and lamb welfare
Foot conditions worsen rapidly in wet, dirty housing conditions

Welfare Considerations

Housed sheep welfare depends on the quality of management including ventilation, nutrition, stocking density and bedding management. Respiratory disease, foot rot and pregnancy toxaemia are major welfare problems in poorly managed housed flocks. Ewes competing for feed during late pregnancy suffer chronic stress. Good housing design with adequate airflow, dry bedding and feeding space prevents many welfare problems.

What You Can Do

Advocate for minimum space standards for housed sheep based on welfare evidence
Support farmers in improving sheep housing ventilation and hygiene
Promote regular health monitoring and prompt treatment in housed flocks
Choose lamb from farmers with assured welfare management standards
Support research into optimal winter sheep housing design