Newborn lambs – where quality counts

With hypothermia and starvation being the main threats to newborn lambs, Cargill is highlighting the importance of high-quality colostrum and a reliable, easy-to-use feeding system.

The company says its Shepherdess lamb feeding system is at the top of the game when it comes to giving newborn and growing lambs the very best chance. Established over two decades, the system combines a lamb colostrum, lamb milk replacer and the Shepherdess feeder. Recognising new developments and enhancements to the products, the range has taken on a new colourful look for 2020.

“Of great importance to rearers is the disease-free nature of the Shepherdess colostrum,” according to Cargill. “And the Shepherdess lamb milk is very closely formulated to match the nutritional value of maternal milk – ‘inspired by nature, backed by science’ is the ideal description. This milk includes the advanced gut health package NuStart that helps the lamb – and often a weaker triplet or sickly lamb – through the early growth period.”

Key strengths of the Shepherdess feeder are maintained; it provides colostrum and milk at the optimum temperature 24/7, helping these weaker lambs to thrive – without a hefty labour input – and perform on par with their stronger flock mates.

Shepherdess colostrum and milk are formulated from sustainably sourced ingredients and are easy to mix and use, the company says.

Cargill adds: “Having a high-quality colostrum to hand and a feeding system that is reliable and easy to use and that can take the lambs forward and seamlessly on to a quality milk is a cost-effective and timely protocol.”