Supporting Goat & Sheep Milk Production Naturally Through Forage
Lactating goats and ewes need more usable energy, protein, water, and minerals than maintenance animals. Requirements are often greatest in early lactation and increase with milk yield and the number of offspring.
Hay Selection for Pregnant Ewes
Early pregnancy often resembles maintenance feeding, while the final six to eight weeks are more demanding because fetal growth accelerates. Requirements rise further when a ewe carries twins or triplets. Nutrition should increase gradually rather than changing abruptly immediately before lambing.
Preventing Obesity in Small Ruminants
A few handfuls of grain, regular treats, rich pasture, and highly digestible hay may appear harmless separately. Over time, total energy can exceed the needs of a mature pet, wether, dry ewe, or retired breeding animal.