Autumn brings cool weather, and the herbs are fully mature, rich in nutrients, making it an ideal time for sheep and ewes to breed. Raising sheep during this season requires careful attention to several key factors. Here are nine essential tips to ensure healthy and productive sheep farming in the fall.
First, take advantage of the cooler morning and evening hours while avoiding the midday heat. Adjust grazing times accordingly—graze early in the morning and return late in the afternoon. In late autumn, when frost is common, graze on frost-free days and harvest later. Always provide clean water, such as well or spring water, twice daily, and avoid contaminated sources. In mountainous areas, focus on sunny slopes where grass grows better and is more nutritious.
Second, choose pastures that are sheltered from wind and offer high-quality forage. Minimize walking and maximize grazing time. When grazing, start with shaded areas before moving to sunny slopes, and prioritize low-lying grass before higher patches. This helps maintain energy levels and ensures balanced nutrition.
Third, separate ewes from other sheep and place them in distant pastures. Thin or underweight sheep should be grouped separately and given access to richer grazing areas to improve their condition.
Fourth, follow the "four stables" rule: stable feeding, stable grazing, stable watering, and stable housing. This prevents overcrowding, which can lead to stress and even miscarriages in pregnant ewes.
Fifth, ensure a regular drinking schedule. Provide water at around 2 p.m. every day to avoid empty stomach drinking or lying down after drinking, which can cause digestive issues.
Sixth, feed salt once every ten days, about 10 grams per sheep. Before offering salt, make sure the sheep have had water to prevent overhydration, especially in pregnant ewes, which could lead to complications like “water tops.â€
Seventh, closely monitor the flock during grazing. Check for signs of illness and treat affected animals promptly. Early supplementation is crucial for underweight sheep to improve their health and productivity.
Eighth, autumn is a prime time for breeding. Ewes are in good condition, with normal estrus cycles, increased ovulation, and better fetal development. Breeding between August and September leads to lambing in February of the following year, allowing ewes to recover quickly and lambs to grow rapidly. Young ewes, aged 1.2 to 1.5 years, show signs of estrus such as reduced appetite, restlessness, swollen vulva, and vaginal discharge. Estrus lasts 1–2 days, with ovulation occurring 30–40 hours after the onset. It’s best to breed 30 hours after the start of estrus for optimal conception rates.
Ninth, autumn is also a high-risk period for diseases. Administer dewormers like levamisole or benzimidazole once to protect against parasites. Keep the sheep house clean by removing feed residue, grass, and manure regularly. Disinfect with a 2% alkali solution or formalin. Regularly brush the sheep to promote blood circulation and boost immunity. Be cautious of bloat caused by eating regrowth grass or legumes, which can be dangerous if not managed properly.
By following these practices, you can ensure a healthier, more productive sheep herd during the fall season.
Foshan Ja Suo Medical Device Co., LTD , https://www.jasuodental.com