What are the common causes of miscarriage in ewes

Sheep are one of the domesticated livestock of humans; not only is their meat delicious, but their wool is also an indispensable source of profit for farmers. However, many ewes miscarry easily during pregnancy, causing farmers to lose profits. So why exactly do ewes miscarry? Today, the editor will explain the causes of miscarriage in ewes.

1. Signs of miscarriage

When a ewe miscarries, there are generally no very distinctive signs. During the course of the condition, the ewe will be restless, refuse to eat, and appear listless; the amniotic fluid flows out, and after the fetus is expelled the situation improves. However, if miscarriages occur simultaneously within a flock, things will not stabilize until all the miscarrying ewes have expelled their fetuses. If the cause is external force, the fetus will dissolve inside the ewe's womb or the ewe will expel a stillborn fetus. Depending on the severity of the injury, the time of expulsion will also differ.

2. Disease factors

Chlamydiosis: Chlamydiosis occurs when a ewe is infected with chlamydia, which attaches to the fetal membranes and multiplies, causing inflammation and leading to miscarriage. It mostly occurs around March each year, and ewes aged 2-3 years have a higher incidence. The ewe will be restless, bleat frequently, and expel a stillborn fetus.

Brucellosis: This disease mostly occurs in ewes about 5 months after giving birth. The miscarriage rate is relatively high when it first appears, but afterward the ewe herself will develop antibodies and recover on her own.

3. Nutritional factors

From autumn to winter, when the green grass withers, ewes are in the midst of pregnancy or the pre-lambing period and need a large amount of nutrition. If the ewe lacks nutrients such as protein and trace elements, the fetus in the sheep's body will not receive enough nutrition, and the fetus will develop poorly, resulting in miscarriage. When autumn arrives, more high-quality fresh grass and feed should be stored to feed pregnant ewes, ensuring the nutrition of both the pregnant ewe and the fetal lamb, and reducing miscarriages.

4. Feeding factors

Moldy forage: Many farmers do not want to waste moldy feed and hay, so they continue to feed it. After the ewe eats moldy forage, bacteria are produced, causing disease and leading to miscarriage.

Overcrowded rearing: If the stocking density is too high, the sheep will collide with one another and crush the pregnant ewes. Pregnant ewes should be raised separately from other sheep to protect their safety. Attention should also be paid during grazing; a pregnant ewe falling down can also cause miscarriage.

In the process of raising sheep, rams and ewes should be raised separately to prevent random mating between males and females. Pregnant ewes are an important condition for ensuring the continuation of your flock, so be sure to pay attention to the nutrition and safety of pregnant ewes. To learn more about agricultural knowledge, please continue to follow Qinnong Network!