Parturition is a normal physiological process for ewes, and typically, caretakers only need to monitor the delivery and care for the newborn lambs. Ewes should ideally give birth unaided, but sometimes complications arise. Below, we discuss methods for assisting with sheep dystocia.
Methods for Assisting with Sheep Dystocia
1. Common Causes of Dystocia
Dystocia in sheep can be categorized into three main types: birth canal dystocia, labor dystocia, and fetal dystocia. The first two types are due to abnormalities in the ewe, such as weak contractions, premature water break, narrow vulva and vagina, or uterine torsion. The third type is due to abnormalities in the fetus, such as deformities, oversized fetuses, or developmental issues.
2. Assistance Methods
(1) Weak Contractions
When a ewe experiences weak contractions, characterized by infrequent, low-intensity, and short contractions of the abdominal wall and uterus, the fetus cannot be delivered. If the fetal position is normal, the cervix is fully dilated, and there are no abnormalities in the pelvis, oxytocic drugs can be used to stimulate uterine contractions. Typically, oxytocin is administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly at a dose of 5-10 units every half hour. If ineffective, a cesarean section is required.
(2) Fetal Malpositions
When the fetal head or neck is bent down or sideways, or the shoulders are anteriorly positioned, or the forelimbs are bent, the caretaker should disinfect their hands, reach into the vagina, push the fetus back into the uterine cavity, straighten the forelimbs, and adjust the head so that the lips, nose, and forelimbs enter the birth canal, then gently pull out the fetus.
(3) Breech Birth
If the fetus is in a breech position, push the fetus back into the uterine cavity, grip the hind hooves, straighten them into the birth canal, and then pull out the fetus.
(4) Uterine Torsion, Narrow Vagina, or Pelvic Deformities
If the ewe has uterine torsion, narrow vagina, or pelvic deformities, a cesarean section is necessary.
3. Precautions
Before surgery, the surgeon’s hands and arms, the ewe, instruments, and the site must be strictly disinfected. The incision site should be between the milk vein and the fold of the knee. Cut through the muscle and skin layers, then the peritoneum, making an incision of 15-20 cm. After opening the abdominal cavity, extract the large curvature of the uterus through the abdominal incision, cut along the large curvature of the uterine wall, drain the amniotic fluid, and remove the fetus. Peel off the membranes around the uterine incision, place 800,000-1,000,000 units of penicillin in the uterine cavity, suture the uterine incision, and place it back in the abdominal cavity, then place 200,000 units of penicillin in the abdominal cavity. Finally, suture the muscle, peritoneum, and skin layers. Post-surgery, prevent infection and ensure proper care of the ewe.
Conclusion
The above methods outline the procedures for assisting with sheep dystocia. To ensure the safety of both the ewe and the lamb, thorough examination and timely intervention are crucial. In cases of severe dystocia, consider performing a cesarean section, especially for valuable breeding ewes.
How to Assist a Sheep Giving Birth
Assisting a sheep during labor and delivery, also known as lambing, is crucial to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the lambs. While most sheep give birth without complications, it's essential to be prepared and know what to do in case assistance is needed. Here are the steps to assist a sheep during the lambing process:
1. Preparation
Before the expected due date, prepare a clean, dry area for the ewe (female sheep) to give birth. Have clean towels, iodine solution for disinfecting the lambs' navels, and a lambing kit with you.
Signs of Labor
Watch for signs that the ewe is in labor, such as restlessness, pawing at the ground, and vocalization. The appearance of the water bag or the first visible part of the lamb is a sign that delivery is imminent.
2. Assess the Situation
Approach the ewe calmly and assess the situation. Determine if the lamb is in the correct position for birth (front feet and head first). If you notice any abnormalities, such as a breach birth, you may need to intervene.
Intervention
If intervention is necessary, wash your hands and arms thoroughly, and put on clean gloves. Lubricate your hand and arm with obstetrical lubricant and gently insert your hand into the ewe's birth canal to reposition the lamb.
3. Assisting with Delivery
Once the lamb is in the correct position, gently pull on the front legs to help the lamb ease out. Avoid pulling too hard, as this can injure the lamb or the ewe. If the lamb is coming out nose first, gently clear the nostrils and mouth of any mucus to help it breathe.
Aftercare
After the lamb is born, allow the ewe to clean it and bond. If the ewe doesn't do this immediately, you can gently rub the lamb with a clean towel to stimulate breathing and circulation. Dip the lamb's navel in iodine to prevent infection.
4. Monitoring and Care
Monitor the ewe and her lambs closely after birth. Make sure each lamb is nursing and receiving colostrum, the nutrient-rich first milk. Check for any signs of illness or weakness in the lambs and seek veterinary assistance if needed.
Conclusion
Assisting a sheep during lambing requires patience, care, and knowledge of the process. By being prepared and knowing what to do, you can help ensure a successful delivery and the health of the ewe and her lambs.
Preparations for Sheep Before Lambing
Causes and Treatment of Lamb Diarrhea
Determining Pregnancy in ewes and Pregnancy Care Tips
5 Different Dystocia Scenarios in Sheep
Dystocia, or difficult birth, is a common issue in sheep farming that can arise from various causes. Understanding the different scenarios of dystocia can help sheep farmers and veterinarians effectively manage and resolve these challenging situations. Here are five different dystocia scenarios that can occur in sheep:
1. Malpresentation
Malpresentation occurs when the lamb is not positioned correctly for birth. This can include breech presentation (rear legs first), head back, or other abnormal positions. Malpresentation can lead to prolonged labor and difficulty in delivery.
Resolution:
To resolve malpresentation, gently reposition the lamb if possible. In severe cases, veterinary assistance may be required to safely deliver the lamb.
2. Oversized Lamb
When a lamb is too large relative to the ewe's birth canal, it can cause dystocia. This often occurs in cases of multiple births or when the lamb is born late in the gestation period.
Resolution:
If an oversized lamb is suspected, it may be necessary to assist with the delivery by repositioning the lamb or performing a cesarean section.
3. Uterine Inertia
Uterine inertia is a condition where the uterus fails to contract effectively during labor, leading to weak or ineffective contractions. This can result in prolonged labor and difficulty in expelling the lamb.
Resolution:
To resolve uterine inertia, oxytocin or other medications may be administered to
stimulate uterine contractions. In severe cases, manual assistance may be required to deliver the lamb.
4. Twin Lamb Disease
Twin lamb disease, or pregnancy toxemia, can occur in ewes carrying multiple lambs. It is caused by a lack of energy due to the high metabolic demands of carrying multiple fetuses.
Resolution:
Treatment involves providing the ewe with energy-rich feed and, in severe cases, inducing labor to deliver the lambs.
5. Fetal Anomalies
Fetal anomalies, such as skeletal deformities or developmental abnormalities, can cause dystocia. These anomalies may prevent the lamb from passing through the birth canal normally.
Resolution:
In cases of fetal anomalies, veterinary intervention may be necessary to safely deliver the lamb or lambs.
Conclusion
Dystocia in sheep can result from a variety of causes, including malpresentation, oversized lambs, uterine inertia, twin lamb disease, and fetal anomalies. Prompt identification and appropriate management of dystocia scenarios are crucial to ensuring the health and well-being of both the ewe and her lambs.
Should You Pull Afterbirth from Sheep?
Afterbirth, also known as the placenta or fetal membranes, is expelled by the ewe (female sheep) after giving birth. It is a natural part of the lambing process and serves important functions. While it may be tempting to assist in its removal, there are important considerations to keep in mind.
Functions of Afterbirth
The afterbirth contains nutrients and antibodies that are beneficial to the newborn lambs. It also helps to protect the uterus and promote uterine contractions, which are important for expelling any remaining fluids and preventing infection.
When to Leave It
In most cases, it is best to leave the afterbirth intact and allow the ewe to expel it naturally. The process can take several hours to complete, and the ewe will often consume the afterbirth, which is a natural behavior that provides her with essential nutrients.
When to Remove It
There are situations where it may be necessary to remove the afterbirth:
-
Prolonged Retention: If the afterbirth is not expelled within 24 hours after lambing, it may need to be removed to prevent infection.
-
Partial Retention: If only part of the afterbirth is expelled, the remaining portion should be carefully removed to prevent infection.
-
Health Concerns: If the ewe shows signs of illness or discomfort after lambing, or if there are concerns about the health of the afterbirth, it may be necessary to remove it.
How to Remove It
If it becomes necessary to remove the afterbirth, it should be done with caution to avoid causing injury or infection. Wash your hands and arms thoroughly, and put on clean gloves. Gently pull on the afterbirth, taking care not to exert too much force.
Conclusion
While it is generally best to allow the ewe to expel the afterbirth naturally, there are situations where intervention may be necessary. Understanding the functions of the afterbirth and knowing when and how to remove it can help ensure the health and well-being of the ewe and her lambs.
