Help with new lamb please

[MandyH]

We bought a ewe a while back at auction and she gave birth last night!!!! I didn't even know she was pregnant because she is crazy and won't let me get anywhere near her. Needless to say I have a few questions concerning the lamb. She was born last night and is up and about and nursing, but has a little diarrhea. Is this normal at first or do I need to do something. Any other lamb tips would be greatly appreciated.

 

[GwenFarms]

I know nothing about lambs, but am willing to bet that it is normal, as most baby animals, including goats have runny stools when they are shiny and new.

Post some pics!!

 

[MandyH]

I thought it kind of normal in ANY newborn, but then again I know that diarrhea isn't good in any baby animal.

 

[GwenFarms]

I know there is some sheep folks on here. Hopefully some of them will see this soon. You could pm Greyfields. I know he raises sheep.

 

[MandyH]

Thanks, I hope somebody comes along before I have a real problem.

 

[WrenAli]

A little should be ok.. What color consistency is it? How much of the rump does it cover? Often young lambs get a little loose for the first few days when the ewe milks well.

If you can catch the ewe, I know this can be fun with the crazy ones and strip her teats to make sure that both the waxy plugs are out and she is milking well.

A wagging tail when nursing often means a happy lamb that is getting milk.

The other thing is what breed is it? Wool or hair? If it is a wool lamb you will need to dock it's tail eventually.

 

[Chatychick]

I agree with Wren as most have such rich milk it will do this. The baby should be fine as my goats do this and as long as it dont smell bad and is yellow or golden it should be good. Its when it gets really offensive odor that you should worry ...She sounds like she will be fine .

 

[MandyH]

Thank you both. It is a hair sheep and it is a golden color. I got a hold of Greyfields late last night and he was super nice enough to tell me that it is normal. I have all grown ewes and have not bred any of them yet because I didn't want to deal with losing a Mama or a baby. They are all just big fat pets. Like I stated in my origianl post, I didn't even know she was pregnant and I walked in the stall about the time the lamb hit the ground!! I freaked out for a second, then realized what it was and was elated. It is anohter little ewe and she is precious. I will try to get a pic, but I have dial up and its a hassle to post pics of anything!!! Thanks again for the responses, now if anybody could tell me what shots or anything she needs and when I would appreciate that too.

 

[greyfields]

I'm sorry I missed this yesterday. It sounded like "caramel butt" to me, which is very normal in lambs/kids which are newborn. Just keep it clean with a paper towel and it will go away.

 

[MandyH]

Thanks Greyfields!! Wiping that stuff off is like wiping tar off the highway LOL!! Does she need any shots? What do I need to go buy to give her as far as vaccinations etc...?