A ewe's requirements change as lambs grow

Penn State Extension describes pregnancy nutrition as a foundation for ewe health and lamb vigour. Much fetal growth occurs late in pregnancy, so maintenance feeding early in gestation does not necessarily meet later needs. The number of developing lambs also matters.

Body condition should be monitored rather than inferred from the outline of a fleece. A heavily fleeced ewe can look substantial while lacking adequate reserves. Excessive condition also creates problems; larger is not automatically healthier.

Pregnancy toxemia concerns an imbalance between energy demand and intake. A late-pregnant ewe that becomes dull or loses appetite needs veterinary attention. This chapter explains the underlying concern without supplying a treatment or universal supplement amount.

Water quality and access influence the feeding system. Penn State notes that dirty water can reduce drinking and feed intake. Minerals must also be appropriate for sheep: cattle supplements may contain dangerous copper levels. A nutritionist or veterinarian can assess the forage, water and complete mineral programme together. The goal is a balanced diet fitted to the ewe's actual stage, not a generic handful of grain because lambing is approaching.