Colostrum – priceless to the newborn lamb

It is almost impossible to put a value on Colostrum, often referred to as Liquid Gold. Eamon Patten explains why timely feeding to newborn lambs is critical.

Colostrum or Biestings is the first and most important feed for lambs. Getting high‑quality colostrum into newborns quickly is the single biggest driver of early-life health, survival and lifetime performance. It does this by fulfilling 3 main functions:

• Providing a dense source of energy and nutrients. Colostrum provides a concentrated supply of energy, minerals and vitamins (notably vitamin A and E)
• A source of maternally derived immunoglobulin antibodies that provide the lambs with passive immunity helping protect against infection while the young animal’s own immune system develops.
• Acts as a laxative and helps the digestive tract start to operate.

Compared with whole milk, colostrum is far richer in protein, fat, total solids, and antibodies.

Racing against the clock

Do not miss the six‑hour window – There are two aspects to this:

• At lambing average IgG (measure of antibody levels) content of ewe’s milk(colostrum) is 40-50g/L. Over the next 24-36 hours its dropping by approximately 3.3g/every hour.
• Antibody absorption from the gut is highest immediately after birth, declines hugely after 4–6 hours, and is almost gone by 24 hours. Early, adequate intake of colostrum is critical to prevent failure of passive immunity transfer which is linked to higher illness, mortality, and poorer growth. Therefore, if a newborn does not get colostrum within the first 24 hours of birth, its chances of survival are very slim.

At farm level, lambs should receive colostrum within the first six hours of life, with repeat feeds at six‑hour intervals. Target 50 ml/kg body weight per feed; by 24 hours lambs should have consumed 20% of it’s bodyweight in colostrum (200 ml/kg). Early intervention is essential if lambs are slow to suck, yield is low, teat and udder irregularities, litters are large etc.

Quality check, hygiene and storage

• For lambs, ewe colostrum is preferred. Cow colostrum can be used if needed and pool from multiple cows and feed about 30% extra volume because it is less concentrated for sheep. Vaccinating dams against clostridial diseases at the correct time boosts antibodies against on‑farm pathogens. If using Colostrum alternatives – follow manufactures instructions.
• If possible, build up a storage bank from ewes with a good supply or milking excess from some single ewes. Store correctly at 4°C and use within two days. If freezing, keep at −18 to −25°C and it should be OK for at least a year. Thaw slowly in warm water below 50°C; never use a microwave. For lamb colostrum, avoid overheating to prevent protein (antibody) damage.
• A Brix refractometer is a simple tool –good-quality colostrum for lambs would read ≥26% Brix (≈ ≥50 g IgG/L).
• Handle cleanly. High bacterial contamination reduces Ig absorption. Milk and feeding equipment must be well cleaned and disinfected.
• Some studies have shown excessive consumption of minerals (iodine) can have a negative effect on antibody absorption by the lamb.

Simple on‑farm checklist

• Be present at lambing – to confirm a timely suck or to intervene.
• For lambs: 50 ml/kg per feed at six‑hour intervals; 200 ml/kg in first 24 hours. (target average of 1L/24 hours)
• Maintain strict hygiene, for storage cool or freeze promptly & thaw gently.
• Work with your vet on dam vaccination timing to maximise clostridial antibody levels.

Strong early-life immunity starts with colostrum. Getting the right product, in the right amount, at the right time will cut mortality levels, treatment requirements and better overall lifetime performance. If the ewe does not supply the colostrum to the lamb, it is up to you to find an alternative supply or else that newborns chance of a healthy life is not that optimal!