Twin lamb disease In the last six weeks of pregnancy lambs grow the most. Therefore, the ewe’s nutritional demands need to be maintained. If the ewe is not getting enough energy then she will get twin lamb disease.

Typical signs of twin lamb disease include: · Separation from flock · Reluctance to rise even for feed · Head pressing or teeth grinding · Facial or body twitching Ewes that are showing any of the signs of twin lamb disease in late pregnancy should be treated immediately. Twin lamb disease should be considered a warning that the flock is under nutritional stress.

Any of the signs below may be as a result of inadequate nutrition: · Many lambs suffering from watery mouth or joint ill · Ewes with low milk production · Weak lambs There are several ways to keep on top of your flock’s nutrition. Scanning ewes for pregnancy rate and separating the flock depending on the results can help to target feeding to those ewes carrying twins and triplets or with poor condition. If ewes are under-conditioned they require additional feeding.

By blood testing ewes one month before lambing you can ascertain how they are responding to their diet and adjust accordingly.

Penbode Farm Vets are offering a ten ewe pre-lambing blood test for just £75, including a FREE visit fee.

We have four practices in Devon and Cornwall – find your nearest at www.penbodevets.co.uk/farmvets