Many ewes go through estrus, mating, pregnancy, and lambing during the cold seasons of autumn and winter, when green forage is scarce in spring and early winter. If feeding and management are inadequate, this can lead to miscarriages in ewes.
Pregnant sheep often show various signs before abortion. In cases of sudden miscarriage, there may be no obvious premonitory symptoms. However, in slow-onset cases, ewes may appear lethargic, lose their appetite, show signs of abdominal discomfort, restlessness, or urgency, and have amniotic fluid discharge. If a disease affects a group of ewes, abortions may occur one after another until all affected animals have given birth. In traumatic cases, the fetus may not be expelled but instead dissolve internally or become stillborn. Depending on the severity of trauma, fetal membranes may hemorrhage or shed, and the remains may be expelled hours or days later.
The causes of ewe abortion include infectious diseases such as Chlamydia and Brucellosis. Chlamydial infection leads to inflammation of the placenta, causing early lambing. It typically occurs between February and April, with higher incidence in 2-year-old ewes. Symptoms are often subtle, with only abdominal pain and occasional lameness. Brucellosis causes abortions in ewes around 3-4 months of gestation. The first outbreak in a flock has a high abortion rate, but most ewes recover and gain immunity over time. Other causes include fetal malformations, organ development issues, fetal membrane swelling, or insufficient amniotic fluid. Ewes suffering from liver, kidney, lung, gastrointestinal, or neurological diseases can also experience spontaneous abortions.
Nutritional deficiencies, especially during winter when green feed is limited, can contribute to abortion. Ewes require more protein, vitamins, minerals, and trace elements during pregnancy. A lack of these nutrients can lead to poor fetal development and miscarriage.
Improper feeding practices, such as feeding moldy forage, giving ice water, sudden climate changes, overcrowding, or improper housing of males and females, can also trigger miscarriages. Additionally, incorrect use of medications like strong laxatives, diuretics, or uterine constrictors may harm the pregnancy.
Prevention is key. Vaccination against chlamydial abortion using an inactivated oil-adjuvanted vaccine (3 ml subcutaneously) before or within a month of pregnancy is recommended. For brucellosis, vaccines like Brucella suis 2 or Brucella abortus 5 can be administered via drinking water or aerosol. Proper dosing and administration methods must be followed to ensure effectiveness.
If metritis occurs, it should be treated promptly. Washing the uterus with antiseptic solutions like potassium permanganate, iodine, or hypertonic saline can help remove infections. Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and supportive care, such as calcium and energy supplements, are essential for recovery.
In terms of feeding and management, extra attention should be given during winter and spring. Providing nutrient-rich feeds like carrots, grass powder, and selenium-enriched concentrates helps improve the health of pregnant ewes. Ensuring clean feed and water, maintaining hygiene, and isolating sick animals are crucial. During grazing, ewes should be kept calm and safe to avoid accidents. Their living environment should be warm, dry, and well-ventilated.
For ewes showing signs of impending abortion, immediate treatment with progesterone injections (15–25 mg intramuscularly daily for two days) is advised. If the fetus is dead and the cervix is open, oxytocin (1–2 ml) may be used to assist in expulsion. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and reduce losses.
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