Lambing and Kidding Season Preparation: Supplies, Facilities, and Protocols

By Dr. Zubair Khalid, DVM, MS, PhD · 2026-08-14

Key Takeaways

Proactive Preparation Timeline: Initiate lambing and kidding season preparations at least 30 days prior to the first estimated due date, with finalization of facility setup and supply inventory by day 14 to ensure readiness for births.
Essential Lambing/Kidding Kit Components: Stock a comprehensive kit including clean towels, obstetrical lubricant, 7% iodine or chlorhexidine for navel disinfection, heat lamps or warming boxes, colostrum and milk replacers, feeding tubes, syringes, needles, and a scale for accurate birth weight recording.
Facility Design for Newborn Safety: Establish individual maternity pens (minimum 4'x5' for sheep, 4'x4' for goats) with solid panels to prevent crushing, ensuring the birthing area is clean, dry, draft-free, and maintained at 40-60°F with access to a warm spot for newborns.
Critical Colostrum and Labor Protocols: Ensure all newborns receive colostrum within the first two hours of life, aiming for 10% of body weight within 12-24 hours, and adhere to labor protocols where Stage 2 delivery should occur within 1-2 hours for ewes and does, necessitating veterinary consultation if progress halts.
Comprehensive Recordkeeping for Management Improvement: Maintain detailed records of birth date, dam, birth weight, birth type, ease of birth, and all treatments administered to inform culling decisions, breeding program evaluation, and identify patterns in mortality causes.
Pre-Breeding Health and Nutrition Optimization: Review vaccination (e.g., CDT vaccine 4-6 weeks pre-lambing) and nutrition programs with a veterinarian at least 60 days before breeding to ensure ewes and does achieve optimal body condition (2.5-3.5 BCS) for successful gestation and lactation.

Lambing and kidding season is the most intense and rewarding period on a sheep or goat operation. Success depends less on luck and more on preparation completed weeks before the first birth. This guide covers the full scope of getting ready: gathering the right supplies, setting up your barn or pasture, establishing clear protocols for normal births and emergencies, and keeping records that improve your management every year. It is written for small to mid-size producers who manage their own flocks and herds, including first-time shepherds and goatherds, as well as experienced farmers looking to tighten their systems.

At a Glance

Start preparation at least 30 days before the first due date. Finalize the barn setup and supply inventory by day 14.
Stock a complete lambing and kidding kit: clean towels, obstetrical lubricant, iodine or chlorhexidine for navels, heat lamps or warming boxes, colostrum replacer, milk replacer, feeding tubes, syringes, needles, and a scale.
Set up individual pens that are at least 4 feet by 5 feet for sheep and 4 feet by 4 feet for goats. Use solid panels or gates to prevent crushing.
Keep the birthing area clean, dry, and free of drafts. Target a temperature between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit for newborns with access to a warm spot.
Learn the three stages of labor. Stage two should result in delivery within one to two hours for ewes and does. Call a veterinarian if progress stops.
Have a written protocol for dystocia, including when to intervene and when to call for help. Never pull on a lamb or kid unless you have confirmed correct positioning.
Ensure every newborn receives colostrum within the first two hours of life, ideally 10 percent of its body weight within the first 12 to 24 hours.
Maintain a lambing and kidding record book or spreadsheet. Track birth date, dam, birth weight, birth type, ease of birth, and any treatments given.
Review your vaccination and nutrition programs with a veterinarian at least 60 days before breeding so ewes and does are in proper body condition for lambing and kidding.

Why Preparation Determines Lambing and Kidding Success

The difference between a smooth lambing season and a chaotic one is almost always preparation. Sheep and goats have a gestation period of approximately 145 to 155 days, with an average of 147 days for sheep and 150 days for goats. That gives you a predictable window to prepare, but the work must be done before the first ewe or doe starts showing signs of labor.

Newborn lambs and kids are vulnerable. They cannot regulate their body temperature well for the first several days of life. They rely entirely on colostrum from their mothers for passive immunity. They are small targets for predators and susceptible to crushing by their dams or other animals. A well-prepared facility minimizes these risks. A well-stocked supply kit means you can handle problems quickly when they arise. Written protocols ensure that you, your family, or your employees respond consistently even at 2 a.m. when you are tired and the weather is bad.

Preparation also protects your financial investment. A ewe or doe that loses a lamb or kid represents a lost year of production. She still ate and required care for five months, but you have nothing to sell at the end of it. Reducing mortality from 15 percent to 5 percent through better preparation has a direct impact on farm profitability. Every lamb or kid that survives to weaning is income potential.

The planning process has several phases. First, you assess your current facilities and identify what needs repair or improvement. Second, you inventory your supplies and purchase anything missing. Third, you write or review your protocols for normal births and emergencies. Fourth, you train anyone who will help you during the season. Fifth, you set up your recordkeeping system. Working through these phases systematically in the weeks before the season starts is the difference between managing your flock and reacting to it.

Facilities: Designing Your Lambing Barn Setup

The lambing barn setup you choose depends on your climate, flock size, and facilities you already own. Some producers lamb entirely on pasture in mild climates. Others use a barn for all births. Many use a combination, bringing animals into a barn only for the actual birth and then moving them out to a clean pasture or pen. Whatever system you use, the principles are the same: clean, dry, draft-free, and safe.

Evaluating Your Existing Barn

Walk through your barn or shelter at least a month before the season starts. Look for structural issues that need repair. Check the roof for leaks. Inspect walls and gates for sharp edges, protruding nails, or broken boards that could injure a newborn or an ewe straining to give birth. Look at the flooring. Dirt floors are common and workable if they are well drained. Concrete floors are easier to clean but require deep bedding to prevent cold stress and injuries. Wooden floors should be checked for rot and splinters.

Ventilation is critical. A barn that is too tight traps moisture and ammonia fumes from urine and manure. These fumes irritate the respiratory tracts of newborns and increase the risk of pneumonia. A barn that is too drafty causes cold stress. The goal is airflow without direct drafts on the animals. Ridge vents, open ridges, and adjustable curtains or boards can provide this balance. You should be able to smell fresh air when you walk into the barn, not ammonia.

Lighting matters for nighttime checks. Install enough lighting to see clearly what is happening during a birth. Consider a mix of overhead lights for general visibility and a headlamp or handheld work light for close examination. Keep spare bulbs on hand. Nothing is worse than a light burning out in the middle of assisting a difficult birth.

Setting Up Jugs and Maternity Pens

Individual maternity pens, often called jugs for sheep and kidding pens for goats, are essential for a managed birth. These pens keep the ewe or doe and her newborns together in a small space where they can bond without interference from other animals. The pens also allow you to monitor the family closely for the first 24 to 72 hours.

The size of the pen is important. It should be large enough for the ewe or doe to stand, lie down, and turn around comfortably, but small enough that she cannot get far from her newborns. A common recommendation is 4 feet by 5 feet for sheep and 4 feet by 4 feet for goats. Some producers prefer slightly larger pens for large breeds or for does with multiple kids. The pen should have solid sides at least 3 feet high to keep the newborns in and other animals out. Use solid panels, gates, or a combination. Woven wire or panels with large gaps can allow a lamb or kid to slip through or get its head caught.

Place the pens in the warmest, most protected part of the barn. The area should be free of drafts. Deep, clean bedding is essential. Straw is the most common choice. It provides insulation, absorbs moisture, and gives newborns traction to stand and nurse. Avoid using hay that is moldy or dusty. Add fresh bedding daily or as needed to keep the pen dry. A wet pen is a direct cause of hypothermia and disease.

Creating a Warming Station

Even in a well-managed barn, some newborns will need extra warmth. This is especially true for lambs and kids born during cold weather, those born to inexperienced dams, those from long or difficult births, and those that are small or weak. A warming station gives you a place to revive and stabilize these animals.

A simple warming box can be made from a large plastic tote or a wooden box. Line it with clean towels or blankets. Place a heat lamp or a heated pad inside. The temperature inside the box should be between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit for a severely chilled newborn. Monitor the temperature with a thermometer. Do not place the heat source where the animal can touch it directly. Always supervise animals in a warming box. Once the newborn is dry, alert, and able to hold its head up, return it to its mother.

Heat lamps in the barn are common but require careful management. Secure them firmly so they cannot fall into bedding. Use lamps with protective cages around the bulbs. Keep them at least 18 inches from bedding and animals. Check them daily for damage. A heat lamp falling into dry straw is a leading cause of barn fires. Consider using radiant heaters designed for livestock as a safer alternative.

Sanitation and Biosecurity

The birthing area should be cleaned and disinfected before the season starts. Remove all old bedding and manure. Scrub feeders, waterers, and pen surfaces with a livestock-safe disinfectant. Let everything dry completely before adding fresh bedding. This reduces the disease load that newborns will face in their first vulnerable days.

Establish a biosecurity protocol for the season. Keep a dedicated pair of boots and coveralls for the lambing barn. Disinfect boots between pens, especially when you have handled a sick animal or assisted with a difficult birth. Have a footbath with disinfectant at the barn entrance. Keep a bucket of disinfectant and a scrub brush for cleaning equipment. These simple practices reduce the spread of diseases like clostridium perfringens, E. coli, and other causes of scours.

Supplies: Building Your Lambing and Kidding Kit

Your supply kit is your lifeline during the season. It should be complete, organized, and checked regularly. Many producers keep a dedicated plastic tote or toolbox for lambing and kidding supplies. The kit should be portable so you can take it to the barn, the pasture, or the field as needed.

Essential Supplies for Normal Births

Start with the supplies you will use for every birth. Clean towels are essential for drying off newborns. Keep a stack of old, clean towels or rags. You will use several per birth. Have a supply of clean paper towels as well for cleaning your hands and equipment.

Obstetrical lubricant is a must-have for any assisted birth. This sterile lubricant allows your hand and arm to pass through the birth canal without causing friction or injury to the ewe or doe. Use a generous amount whenever you need to examine or assist a birth. Never use soap or detergent as a lubricant, as these can be irritating.

Iodine solution or chlorhexidine is needed for navel care. Dip the newborn's navel cord in a small cup of 7 percent tincture of iodine or a chlorhexidine solution immediately after birth. This prevents infection and reduces the risk of joint ill and other navel-borne diseases. Some producers prefer to spray the navel with a commercial navel dip. Whichever method you use, do it within the first hour of life.

A small scale is essential for weighing newborns. Birth weight is one of your most important records. It helps you identify small or weak animals that need extra attention. It also helps you evaluate your breeding program and nutrition. A simple hanging scale with a sling works well for lambs and kids. Digital scales are convenient and accurate. Weigh every newborn within the first few hours of life.

Feeding Supplies

Colostrum is the single most important thing a newborn needs. Have a supply of high-quality colostrum replacer on hand before the season starts. This is not the same as colostrum supplement. A replacer provides complete nutrition and antibodies. A supplement provides additional energy and some antibodies but is not a substitute for real colostrum. Read labels carefully. Store colostrum replacer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Check expiration dates before the season starts.

Colostrum from your own flock is the best option. If you have a ewe or doe that dies during birth or produces too much colostrum, you can milk her and freeze the excess. Freeze colostrum in small containers or ice cube trays. Thaw it slowly in warm water. Never microwave colostrum, as this destroys the antibodies. Label frozen colostrum with the date and the animal it came from.

Milk replacer is needed for orphaned lambs and kids, for triplets where the dam cannot feed all of them, or for any newborn that is not nursing well. Choose a milk replacer formulated specifically for lambs or kids. Do not use cow milk replacer for lambs or kids, as the nutritional profile is different. Have a supply of lamb milk replacer and kid milk replacer on hand before the season starts.

Feeding tubes are essential for ensuring a weak or reluctant newborn receives colostrum. A stomach tube, also called an esophageal feeder, allows you to deliver colostrum directly to the stomach. This is faster and safer than trying to bottle-feed a weak animal that may not swallow properly. Have several sizes of tubes on hand. Learn the correct technique for passing the tube before you need to use it. A tube placed in the trachea instead of the esophagus will kill the animal. Practice on a dummy or have an experienced person teach you.

Bottles and nipples are needed for feeding orphans or supplementing newborns. Choose bottles and nipples designed for lambs and kids. The nipples should have the correct hole size. A hole that is too large causes milk to flow too fast and can lead to aspiration. A hole that is too small frustrates the animal. Test nipples before the season starts.

Medical Supplies

Your kit should include basic medical supplies for common problems. Have a supply of syringes and needles in various sizes. Use the correct needle size for the animal and the product you are administering. Have a supply of 18-gauge and 20-gauge needles, 1 cc and 3 cc syringes for small doses, and larger syringes for bigger volumes.

Injectable vitamins and supplements are commonly used during lambing and kidding season. Vitamin E and selenium are important for preventing white muscle disease in lambs and kids, especially in areas with selenium-deficient soils. Have a supply of a commercial vitamin E and selenium product on hand, but use it according to your veterinarian's recommendations. Overdosing on selenium is toxic.

Have a supply of a commercial iron supplement for anemia, especially in kids that are raised in confinement. Iron deficiency can cause weakness and poor growth. Again, follow your veterinarian's guidance on when to use iron supplements.

A good thermometer is essential. A digital thermometer with a flexible probe is easy to use and gives a quick reading. Normal rectal temperature for a newborn lamb or kid is between 101 and 103 degrees Fahrenheit. A temperature below 100 degrees indicates hypothermia. A temperature above 104 degrees may indicate infection or overheating.

Have a supply of a topical antibiotic spray or ointment for minor wounds. Have a supply of a commercial antiseptic solution for cleaning wounds and the perineal area of the ewe or doe. Have sterile gloves for examinations and assisted births. Obstetrical sleeves, which are long plastic gloves that cover your arm, are essential for any internal examination.

Equipment and Tools

A headlamp or handheld work light is essential for examining animals in dark barn corners. Have spare batteries on hand. A pair of sharp scissors or shears is needed for trimming the hair or wool around the ewe's or doe's rear end before birth. This keeps the area clean and makes it easier to see what is happening during delivery.

Have a supply of plastic trash bags for disposing of afterbirth and other waste. Have a bucket for water and a bucket for disinfectant. Have a notebook and pen for recording births. A waterproof notebook is ideal for the barn environment. Have a supply of ear tags and an ear tagger for identifying newborns.

A lamb puller or obstetric chain is a tool for assisting difficult births. However, this is a tool that requires training and judgment. Using a puller incorrectly can injure or kill the ewe or doe and the lamb or kid. If you are new to lambing and kidding, have a veterinarian or experienced producer teach you how to use a puller correctly. Many producers prefer to call a veterinarian for difficult births rather than risk using a puller.

The Complete Supply Checklist

Create a written checklist of all supplies and check it weekly during the season. A complete checklist might include:

Clean towels and rags
Paper towels
Obstetrical lubricant
Iodine or chlorhexidine for navels
Small cups for navel dipping
Colostrum replacer
Milk replacer for lambs and kids
Bottles and nipples
Esophageal feeding tubes
Syringes and needles
Vitamin E and selenium supplement
Iron supplement
Digital thermometer
Topical antibiotic spray
Sterile obstetrical gloves
Headlamp and spare batteries
Scissors or shears
Trash bags
Buckets
Notebook and pens
Ear tags and tagger
Scale for weighing newborns
Heat lamps or warming box
Lamb puller or obstetric chains (with training)

Nutrition and Health Programs Before the Season

Preparation for lambing and kidding season starts long before the birth. The nutrition and health of the ewe or doe during pregnancy directly affects the health of her newborns. A ewe or doe that is in poor body condition at lambing time will produce weak lambs or kids, have poor colostrum quality, and be more likely to experience birthing problems.

Body Condition Scoring

Body condition scoring is a hands-on method of assessing fat and muscle cover on a ewe or doe. The scale runs from 1 to 5, with 1 being emaciated and 5 being obese. The ideal body condition at lambing is between 2.5 and 3.5, depending on breed and management system. Score each animal by feeling the spine and the short ribs. A score of 3 means you can feel the spine with light pressure but the bones are smooth and rounded.

Work with your veterinarian or an experienced producer to learn how to body condition score accurately. Do this at least 60 days before lambing so you have time to adjust nutrition. Thin ewes and does should be gaining condition in the last trimester. Overconditioned animals are at higher risk for difficult births and pregnancy toxemia.

Vaccination Programs

Vaccination of the ewe or doe during pregnancy protects her newborns through colostral immunity. The most common vaccine given to pregnant ewes and does is a clostridium perfringens types C and D and tetanus vaccine, often called CDT vaccine. This vaccine protects against overeating disease and tetanus. Give the vaccine to the ewe or doe four to six weeks before lambing or kidding. This timing ensures high levels of antibodies in the colostrum.

Other vaccines may be recommended based on your region and the diseases present in your area. Consult your veterinarian about a vaccination program for your flock or herd. Some producers also vaccinate against caseous lymphadenitis, footrot, or other specific diseases. Your veterinarian can help you determine what is necessary for your situation.

Parasite Control

Internal parasites are a major problem in sheep and goats. A ewe or doe that is heavily parasitized will be in poor condition and will produce weak newborns. Work with your veterinarian to develop a parasite control program based on fecal egg counts and the specific parasites in your area. Do not deworm all animals routinely, as this contributes to drug resistance. Instead, use targeted selective treatment, deworming only the animals that need it based on FAMACHA scoring, body condition, and fecal egg counts.

A periparturient rise in parasite egg output is common in ewes and does around lambing and kidding. This means they shed more parasite eggs during this time. Some producers deworm the ewe or doe at lambing to reduce this contamination. Discuss this with your veterinarian.

Mineral Supplementation

Provide free-choice minerals formulated for sheep or goats throughout pregnancy and lactation. The mineral mix should be appropriate for your species. Do not feed sheep minerals to goats or goat minerals to sheep unless the label specifies it is suitable for both. Copper is a common concern. Sheep are sensitive to copper toxicity, while goats have higher copper requirements. A mineral mix formulated for sheep will not have enough copper for goats. A goat mineral mix can be toxic to sheep.

Selenium and vitamin E are particularly important in many regions. Selenium-deficient soils produce selenium-deficient forages. Lambs and kids from selenium-deficient dams are at risk for white muscle disease, which causes weakness, difficulty standing, and heart problems. Your veterinarian can test your forage and advise you on supplementation.

The Lambing and Kidding Protocol: Normal Birth

Having a clear protocol for normal births helps you stay calm and focused. It also helps you recognize when something is wrong and needs intervention. Write down your protocol and review it with anyone who will help you during the season.

Recognizing the Signs of Labor

The first signs of labor are often subtle. The ewe or doe may separate herself from the flock or herd. She may become restless, pawing at the ground and lying down and getting up repeatedly. Her udder will fill and become firm. The ligaments around her tailhead will relax and soften, a sign that usually appears 12 to 24 hours before birth. The vulva may swell and appear reddened.

As labor progresses, the ewe or doe will show signs of straining. She may lie down and strain, or she may stand and strain. Some animals make a low grunting sound. The water bag, a fluid-filled sac, will appear at the vulva. This sac may break on its own, or it may need to be broken. If the water bag appears and the ewe or doe is not making progress, this is a sign that intervention may be needed.

The Three Stages of Labor

Labor has three stages. The first stage is the dilation of the cervix. This stage can last from 2 to 12 hours. The ewe or doe may be restless and uncomfortable. She may not eat. The second stage is the delivery of the lamb or kid. This stage should be completed within one to two hours for a ewe and one to two hours for a doe. The third stage is the delivery of the placenta, which usually occurs within a few hours after the birth.

During the second stage, you should see steady progress. The ewe or doe will strain and the lamb or kid should move down the birth canal. You should see the feet and nose appear. In a normal presentation, the lamb or kid comes out nose first with the front feet extended, one slightly ahead of the other. The delivery should be completed within 30 to 60 minutes of active straining. If you see no progress for 30 minutes or if the ewe or doe has been straining hard for an hour without delivery, intervention is needed.

When to Intervene

The general rule is to give the ewe or doe time to deliver on her own, but not too much time. Intervene if:

The ewe or doe has been straining hard for 30 minutes without producing feet or a nose.
The water bag has been visible for 30 minutes without progress.
You can see parts of the lamb or kid, but delivery is not progressing.
The presentation is abnormal, such as a head without feet, a tail, or only one foot.
The ewe or doe appears exhausted or in distress.
You suspect a problem, such as twins or triplets that are tangled.

When you intervene, follow a careful procedure. Wash your hands and arms thoroughly. Put on clean obstetrical gloves. Use generous amounts of obstetrical lubricant. Examine the ewe or doe to determine the position of the lamb or kid. Identify the presentation. A normal presentation has the head and both front feet in the birth canal. If the presentation is abnormal, you need to correct it before pulling.

Correcting Abnormal Presentations

There are several common abnormal presentations. In a breech presentation, the lamb or kid is coming tail first with the hind legs extended backward. In a posterior presentation, the lamb or kid is coming hind feet first. In a head-back presentation, the head is turned back over the shoulder. In a leg-back presentation, one or both front legs are not extended.

Correcting an abnormal presentation requires patience and skill. You must push the lamb or kid back into the uterus to give yourself room to work. Then you must reposition the legs and head into the correct position. This is delicate work. It is easy to injure the ewe or doe or the lamb or kid if you are not careful. If you are not experienced with correcting abnormal presentations, call your veterinarian.

The Decision to Call for Help

Know your limits. If you have been working on a difficult birth for more than 30 minutes without progress, call your veterinarian. If you cannot identify the position of the lamb or kid, call for help. If you suspect a problem you cannot handle, call for help. It is far better to call a veterinarian early than to wait until the ewe or doe is exhausted and the lamb or kid is dead.

Have your veterinarian's phone number posted in the barn. Have a backup plan for after-hours emergencies. Know the nearest emergency veterinary clinic and their phone number. If you have a regular veterinarian who does not handle livestock emergencies, establish a relationship with a large animal veterinarian who does before the season starts.

Immediate Care of the Newborn

The first few hours of a lamb or kid's life are critical. Your actions during this time can mean the difference between life and death.

Drying and Warming

As soon as the lamb or kid is born, clear any membranes from its nose and mouth. If the mother is not cleaning the newborn immediately, dry it vigorously with a clean towel. This stimulates breathing and helps the newborn regulate its body temperature. Pay special attention to drying the head and body. A wet newborn loses body heat rapidly. In cold weather, move the newborn to a warm area or use a heat lamp to help it dry.

Check the newborn's breathing. It should be breathing regularly within a few seconds of birth. If the newborn is not breathing, clear the airways and stimulate it by rubbing its chest vigorously. Some producers use a bulb syringe to clear mucus from the nose and mouth. If the newborn does not start breathing within a minute, you may need to give it a gentle shake or use a commercial resuscitation device designed for newborn livestock.

Navel Care

Dip the navel cord in iodine or chlorhexidine solution immediately after birth. This prevents bacteria from entering the newborn's body through the umbilical opening. Use a small cup filled with the solution. Dip the entire navel cord and the area around it. Repeat the dip again in a few hours if the navel appears wet or soiled. Keep the bedding in the pen clean and dry to reduce the risk of navel infection.

Colostrum: The First Meal

Colostrum is the first milk produced by the ewe or doe. It is thick, yellowish, and rich in antibodies, energy, and vitamins. The newborn must receive colostrum within the first few hours of life. The ability of the newborn's gut to absorb antibodies from colostrum decreases rapidly after birth. By 12 hours of age, the gut has largely closed to antibody absorption. By 24 hours, it is nearly impossible for the newborn to absorb antibodies from colostrum.

The goal is for the newborn to receive colostrum within the first two hours of life. The amount needed is approximately 10 percent of the newborn's body weight within the first 12 to 24 hours. For a 10-pound lamb, that is 1 pound of colostrum, or about 16 fluid ounces. For a 6-pound kid, that is 0.6 pounds, or about 10 fluid ounces. Divide this into multiple feedings. Give the first feeding of colostrum within the first two hours, then continue feeding every few hours.

If the newborn does not nurse on its own within the first hour, intervene. First, try to help it find the teat. Hold the newborn near the udder and guide its mouth to the teat. Some newborns need encouragement to latch on. If the newborn is too weak to nurse, tube feed it colostrum. If the mother does not have colostrum or has poor quality colostrum, use colostrum replacer.

Checking the Placenta

The placenta should be expelled within a few hours after the birth. Count the placentas to determine how many lambs or kids the ewe or doe delivered. If you suspect the ewe or doe had more babies than you have seen, examine her to check for a retained lamb or kid. A retained placenta that is not expelled within 12 hours may require veterinary treatment. However, do not pull on a placenta that is hanging from the ewe or doe. This can cause serious injury. Allow it to pass naturally.

Monitoring and Recordkeeping

Good recordkeeping is essential for improving your lambing and kidding management year after year. You cannot make informed decisions without accurate records.

What to Record

Record the following information for every birth:

Date and time of birth
Dam identification (ear tag number, name, or other ID)
Sire identification, if known
Number of lambs or kids born
Birth weight of each newborn
Sex of each newborn
Birth type (single, twin, triplet)
Ease of birth (unassisted, easy pull, hard pull, cesarean)
Any problems or complications
Treatments given
Colostrum given and when
Any congenital abnormalities or defects

Record this information in a notebook kept in the barn or in a spreadsheet on your phone or tablet. Many producers use a dedicated lambing and kidding record book. The key is to record the information at the time of birth, not hours later when you have forgotten the details.

Using Records to Improve Management

Your lambing and kidding records help you evaluate your breeding program and your management. Look for patterns over time. Which ewes or does consistently have easy births? Which ones have difficult births? Which animals produce the heaviest lambs or kids? Which animals have the highest mortality? Use this information to make culling decisions and to select breeding stock.

Birth weight is an important indicator of prenatal nutrition. Lambs and kids that are too small at birth may indicate inadequate nutrition during pregnancy. Lambs and kids that are too large may indicate overfeeding or a sire that produces large offspring, which can lead to difficult births. Track average birth weights across your flock or herd and compare them year to year.

Mortality records are essential. If you lose lambs or kids, record the cause of death if you can determine it. Common causes include dystocia, hypothermia, starvation, scours, pneumonia, and predation. Look for patterns. If most of your losses are from hypothermia, you need better warming facilities. If most are from scours, you need better sanitation. Use your records to identify problems and make changes.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Every producer makes mistakes during lambing and kidding season. The key is to learn from them and avoid repeating them. Here are some of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Waiting Too Long to Intervene

The most common mistake is waiting too long before intervening in a difficult birth. Producers often want to give the ewe or doe more time, hoping she will deliver on her own. But waiting too long exhausts the ewe or doe and can kill the lamb or kid. If the ewe or doe has been straining hard for 30 minutes without progress, intervene. If you are not sure whether to intervene, call your veterinarian for advice.

Pulling Incorrectly

Pulling on a lamb or kid incorrectly can cause serious injury to both the mother and the baby. Never pull straight out. Pull downward and in a gentle arc, following the natural curve of the birth canal. Pull only during contractions, when the ewe or doe is straining. Pull gently and steadily, never with force. If you have not made progress after a few pulls, stop and call for help.

Neglecting Colostrum

Some producers fail to ensure that every newborn receives adequate colostrum. They assume that the newborn will nurse on its own. But weak newborns, newborns from difficult births, and newborns from dams with poor milk production may not get enough colostrum. Check every newborn to ensure it has nursed. If there is any doubt, tube feed colostrum.

Poor Sanitation

Poor sanitation in the lambing barn is a direct cause of disease. Scours, navel infections, and pneumonia are all linked to dirty conditions. Clean and disinfect pens between occupants. Change bedding frequently. Keep feeding equipment clean. Wash your hands and disinfect your boots between pens. These practices are not optional. They are essential for newborn health.

Not Having a Plan

Many producers enter lambing season without a written plan. They react to problems as they arise instead of following a protocol. Write down your protocols for normal births, difficult births, and emergencies. Review them with anyone who will help you. Post them in the barn. Having a plan helps you stay calm and make good decisions, even in the middle of the night.

Decision Thresholds: When to Intervene and When to Call

Making good decisions during lambing and kidding season requires knowing when to act and when to wait. Here are some clear thresholds to guide your decisions.

When to Intervene in a Birth

Intervene if the ewe or doe has been straining for 30 minutes without producing feet or a nose.
Intervene if the water bag has been visible for 30 minutes without progress.
Intervene if you see an abnormal presentation, such as a head without feet or a tail first.
Intervene if the ewe or doe appears exhausted or in severe distress.
Intervene if you suspect a problem but are not sure what is wrong.

When to Call a Veterinarian

Call if you have been working on a difficult birth for 30 minutes without progress.
Call if you cannot identify the position of the lamb or kid.
Call if you cannot correct an abnormal presentation.
Call if the ewe or doe has not delivered within two hours of active straining.
Call if the ewe or doe has a prolapsed uterus or vagina.
Call if the ewe or doe is bleeding heavily.
Call if you suspect a dead lamb or kid that you cannot deliver.
Call if you have any doubt about what to do.

When to Intervene with a Newborn

Intervene if the newborn is not breathing within one minute of birth.
Intervene if the newborn is not nursing within one hour of birth.
Intervene if the newborn is shivering or appears cold.
Intervene if the newborn is weak and cannot stand.
Intervene if the newborn has not passed the placenta within 12 hours of birth.

When to Call for a Sick Newborn

Call if the newborn has a temperature below 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Call if the newborn has diarrhea, especially if it is watery or foul-smelling.
Call if the newborn is lethargic and not nursing.
Call if the newborn has difficulty breathing.
Call if the newborn has a swollen navel or joints.
Call if the newborn has any signs of illness within the first week of life.

Post-Birth Care for the Ewe and Doe

The work does not end with the birth. The ewe or doe needs care and monitoring after delivery to ensure she recovers properly and can care for her newborns.

Monitoring the Ewe or Doe

Check the ewe or doe regularly after birth. Her temperature should be normal, around 101 to 103 degrees Fahrenheit. She should be eating and drinking within a few hours of birth. Offer her fresh water and good quality hay. Some producers offer a warm mash or gruel to encourage eating and provide energy.

Check her udder for signs of mastitis. The udder should be warm but not hot, and there should be no swelling, hardness, or discharge. If you suspect mastitis, call your veterinarian. Mastitis can be life-threatening and can prevent the ewe or doe from nursing her newborns.

Watch for signs of metritis, an infection of the uterus. Signs include fever, depression, loss of appetite, and a foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Metritis requires veterinary treatment.

Nutrition for Lactation

The ewe or doe has high nutritional demands during lactation. She is producing milk for her newborns and needs extra energy and protein. Provide high-quality forage and a grain supplement appropriate for lactating ewes and does. Increase her feed gradually over the first few days after birth. Sudden increases in grain can cause digestive upset. Work with a nutritionist or your veterinarian to formulate a ration that meets her needs.

Reintroducing to the Flock or Herd

Keep the ewe or doe and her newborns in the individual pen for at least 24 to 72 hours. This allows the family to bond and ensures the newborns are nursing well. When you move them out, move them to a clean, protected area. Introduce them to the rest of the flock or herd gradually. Some producers move the ewe or doe and her newborns to a nursery group with other mothers and newborns. This allows the animals to socialize while still being protected from the main flock or herd.

Special Situations and Problem Solving

Even with the best preparation, you will encounter problems during lambing and kidding season. Here are some common situations and how to handle them.

Orphaned Lambs and Kids

Sometimes a ewe or doe dies during birth, rejects her newborn, or cannot produce enough milk. You will need to raise the newborn as an orphan. This is time-consuming but can be successful. Feed the orphan colostrum within the first few hours of life, then switch to milk replacer. Feed the orphan every 2 to 4 hours for the first week, then gradually reduce the frequency. Keep the orphan warm and clean. Some producers successfully graft orphans onto another ewe or doe that has lost her own baby. This requires patience and skill, but it can save a lot of bottle feeding.

Triplets and Quadruplets

Ewes and does that produce triplets or quadruplets often cannot feed all of their newborns adequately. The newborns may be small and weak. You may need to supplement the newborns with bottle feeding or tube feeding. Some producers remove one or more of the triplets and raise them as orphans or graft them onto another ewe or doe. The key is to ensure that every newborn receives adequate colostrum and milk.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is a leading cause of death in newborn lambs and kids. It occurs when the newborn cannot maintain its body temperature, usually because of cold weather, wet conditions, or a difficult birth. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, lethargy, weakness, and a low body temperature. Treat hypothermia by warming the newborn gradually. Move it to a warm area, dry it thoroughly, and use a heat lamp or warming box. Do not warm the newborn too quickly, as this can cause shock. Once the newborn is warm and alert, offer it colostrum or milk.

Starvation

Starvation occurs when the newborn does not receive enough milk. This can happen if the ewe or doe has poor milk production, if the newborn is too weak to nurse, or if there are too many newborns for the mother to feed. Signs of starvation include weakness, dehydration, and a sunken belly. Treat starvation by feeding the newborn colostrum or milk replacer. If the mother cannot produce enough milk, you will need to supplement or bottle feed.

Scours

Scours, or diarrhea, is a common problem in newborn lambs and kids. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Scours can cause rapid dehydration and death. Signs include watery diarrhea, weakness, and dehydration. Treat scours by providing fluids and electrolytes. In severe cases, you may need to tube feed fluids. Call your veterinarian if the newborn does not improve within 24 hours or if it appears severely dehydrated.

Prolapses

A uterine prolapse occurs when the uterus turns inside out and protrudes from the vulva. This is a veterinary emergency. Call your veterinarian immediately. Do not attempt to replace the uterus yourself unless you have been trained to do so. A vaginal prolapse is less serious but still requires veterinary attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I start preparing for lambing and kidding season?

Start your preparation at least 60 days before the first due date. This gives you time to assess body condition, adjust nutrition, and administer vaccines. Complete your facility setup and supply inventory by 30 days before the season starts. This allows you to handle any unexpected repairs or supply shortages without panic.

What is the most important supply to have on hand?

Colostrum replacer is the most critical supply. A newborn that does not receive colostrum within the first few hours of life is at high risk for disease and death. Have a supply of high-quality colostrum replacer on hand before the season starts. Check the expiration date and replace it if it is old.

How do I know if a ewe or doe is having trouble giving birth?

If the ewe or doe has been straining hard for 30 minutes without producing feet or a nose, she is having trouble. If the water bag has been visible for 30 minutes without progress, she is having trouble. If you see an abnormal presentation, such as a head without feet or a tail first, she is having trouble. When in doubt, intervene or call your veterinarian.

Should I pull a lamb or kid that is stuck?

Only if you have confirmed the correct presentation and have been trained to assist with births. Pulling incorrectly can injure or kill the mother and the baby. If you are not experienced, call your veterinarian. If you do pull, use gentle, steady pressure during contractions and follow the natural curve of the birth canal.

How soon does a newborn need to nurse?

A newborn should receive colostrum within the first two hours of life. The ability to absorb antibodies from colostrum decreases rapidly after birth. By 12 hours of age, the gut has largely closed to antibody absorption. Ensure every newborn nurses or is tube fed colostrum within the first two hours.

How much colostrum does a newborn need?

A newborn needs approximately 10 percent of its body weight in colostrum within the first 12 to 24 hours. For a 10-pound lamb, that is about 16 fluid ounces. For a 6-pound kid, that is about 10 fluid ounces. Divide this into multiple feedings.

How long should I keep the ewe or doe and her newborns in the individual pen?

Keep the family in the individual pen for at least 24 to 72 hours. This allows the newborns to bond with their mother and ensures they are nursing well. Longer is better, especially for weak or small newborns or for first-time mothers.

What should I do if a ewe or doe rejects her newborn?

First, try to encourage the mother to accept her newborn. Hold the newborn near the udder and guide its mouth to the teat. Some mothers need time to bond. If the mother continues to reject the newborn, you will need to bottle feed or graft the newborn onto another mother. Some producers successfully use a commercial bonding product or a technique of rubbing the newborn with the mother's amniotic fluid to encourage acceptance.

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References

This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.