Farm Diary

- jobs for July

In the final 4-6 weeks of pregnancy, ewes need good feed to keep up energy levels. If grass is short you need to add supplements to their diet, such as good quality hay, silage, multi-nuts and/or grain.

Low grass means a lowered protein intake, so look for feed that has high protein (16-17%).

Grain feeds are not a complete diet and can cause acidosis. They are fed in addition to pasture, not in place of it, to avoid this. Adding chopped-up straw to grain will encourage animals to chew it well. This stimulates saliva, which helps to keep the rumen from producing too much acid. •

Always introduce a supplement slowly (50g per sheep per day) and build up to recommended levels (usually 150-200g per day) over 7-10 days. • Use troughs to feed concentrates with plenty of space so all get a fair share and there is no waste. • Whole barley and oats are best crushed. • Don’t supplement purely with wheat as it is not a complete feed. • Have a salt lick and molasses lick available at all times. • Have plenty of fresh, clean water available at all times. • Livestock on supplements can be affected by a magnesium/calcium deficiency – talk to your vet clinic or rural supply store about the best product for your ewes.