How to Look After Orphan Lambs

Hips and Tricks for Orphan Lambs

There are several things you can do to maximise the success of raising orphan lambs. Below is a brief list of things you can to help your lamb thrive and survive these difficult first few weeks.

Colostrum

Lambs will normally receive important antibodies from the ewe through the first few days of milk. This antibody rich milk is called ‘Colostrum’, and is a vital component of setting your lamb up for success and long-term health. It is generally recommended that an orphan lamb receives powdered colostrum for the first three days of life before transitioning onto lamb powder. The powdered colostrum can be purchased through us – please call 0419306182 to order some. 

 Umbilical hygiene

It is highly recommended that you spray the umbilical cord with a diluted iodine (betadine) spray at least once a day. The umbilicus is the main source of infection which can often result in septic arthritis. We recommend the iodine is made to a “weak tea” strength and applied daily.

 Milk 

It is recommended that milk is given to the lamb cold. Sounds odd, we know, but there is significant evidence that this reduces the risk of them developing bloat. The regular milk powders have a product in it that a lamb cannot digest, and if feed warm the undigested milk, can increase the risk of a bacterial overgrowth in the stomach. Feeding cold milk also reduces the risk of overfeeding.  I recommend that you do not change milk powder brands – so pick a brand and stick with it! Another product called “Protexin X” can be added to your lamb’s milk to help manage their gut micro-flora and also reduce the risk of bloat. 

 Gut Development 

It is recommended that lambs have access to both fresh water, pasture and good quality fodder (Lucerne or grass hay) from 1 week of age. This allows them it explore, and ingest a small quantity that starts to develop their rumen. The ruminal development is vital as this allows them to transition off milk and onto pasture quicker and sets them up for long term health and robust gut.  

 Rearing orphan lambs can be both heartbreaking and exhilarating all in one. Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Libby, on 0419306182, or email on libby@vetinthevalley.com if you have any questions or concerns. At this time of year, she’s most liklely in the lamb shed at her own property in Plenty!