Twin Lamb Disease – Know the Signs
Twin Lamb Disease usually occurs in the final 6-7 weeks of pregnancy, as 75% of foetal growth occurs within this time, meaning the nutrients demanded by the ewe greatly increase and often can no longer be met by a forage-based diet alone.
Signs/Symptoms
Affected ewes can often be identified early by separating themselves from the flock, loss of appetite and continuous fine muscle tremors around the muzzle and ears. In later stages they may shake, circle, twist their neck, lift their head high, grind their teeth, press their head into a corner of a pen, become very lethargic and be reluctant to stand. Progression can be rapid and result in brain damage or death, and is an even bigger problem in ewes under/overweight when carrying multiple lambs.
If the ewe's feed intake is below energy requirements (a negative energy balance), blood glucose levels drop and the ewe's body backfat is broken down for energy. If excessive amounts are mobilised, the liver struggles to cope, leading to increased blood ketone levels – Twin Lamb Disease. Prompt treatment is essential to avoid reduced milk production, reduced lamb growth and increased lamb mortality.
Treatment
Prevention is better than cure – aim to add a glycerine-based supplement to feed at the very first signs of distress and repeat if/when necessary. Ewes suffering from Twin Lamb Disease should be treated twice a day with a product containing propylene glycol (glycerine), vitamins and trace elements to stimulate appetite and liver function, such as Osmonds Twin Lamb Supplement, which provides instant and essential energy and important respite while the ewe's own metabolism resumes normal working.
If you have any questions, please call our office on 01948 668100, email info@osmonds.co.uk or visit our website to see our whole range of lambing essentials.
