In the natural ecological factors, temperature is one of the most critical elements that influence sheep health and productivity. It directly or indirectly impacts various physiological performances and production outcomes. When ambient temperatures become excessively high or low, a sheep's body temperature starts to fluctuate, potentially leading to heatstroke or freezing, which can be fatal in extreme cases. During hot summer days, feed intake often decreases, and in severe conditions, feeding may stop entirely. Sheep tend to show signs of distress, such as falling over or collapsing. Especially during midday when temperatures are at their peak, crowding and heavy breathing are common. This leads to elevated body temperature, increased heart rate, and faster respiration, eventually resulting in heatstroke and even death. To prevent these issues and ensure the well-being of sheep during the summer months, the author recommends implementing six key measures.
First, effective cooling strategies should be applied to prevent heat stress. Regularly removing weeds around the sheep shed improves air circulation. Installing ventilation windows on the bottom of the north and south walls helps enhance airflow. Shading structures should be placed on the sun-facing side of the shelter to reduce direct sunlight exposure. If the roof is made of tiles, painting it with white lime or covering it with shade nets can help reflect heat. Increasing greenery around the shed also improves the microclimate, making the environment more comfortable for the animals.
Second, nutrition must be strengthened throughout all seasons, especially during hot weather. Providing a nutrient-dense diet helps improve the sheep’s ability to withstand high temperatures. High-quality forage, such as green bean stalks and alfalfa, should be used to ensure palatability and nutritional value, particularly for newly weaned lambs and pregnant ewes.
Third, supplementary feeding is essential. Adult sheep should receive about 200 grams of concentrate daily, while newly weaned lambs require approximately 100 grams. For every 100 grams of concentrate, 25% should come from cake-based ingredients. If using cottonseed cakes or other similar feeds, they must be detoxified by soaking them in water for 24 hours and rinsing thoroughly before feeding.
Fourth, salt supplementation is important. Adding 0.2 grams of salt per kilogram of body weight helps maintain the acid-base balance in the sheep's system.
Fifth, ensuring an ample supply of cool, clean drinking water is crucial. Allowing sheep to drink freely helps regulate body temperature and prevents overheating.
Sixth, increasing feed intake is vital, especially during hot periods. As sheep naturally eat less in the heat, increasing the number of feedings becomes a key strategy to reduce heat stress. However, high-nutrient feed alone won't guarantee good health if the sheep aren't eating properly. Avoid feeding spoiled forage, as it can lead to digestive problems.
Managing feeding times is also important. Feeding in the early morning and late evening, rather than at noon, helps avoid the hottest parts of the day. Sheep should rest before 9 AM and graze after 5 PM to minimize heat exposure.
Supplementary feeding at night should be both sufficient in quantity and quality. The best time for this is around 10 PM, as feeding too late can interfere with digestion and rest.
Setting up proper feeding troughs—whether in a flat or elevated system—is necessary to ensure efficient feed intake and reduce waste.
When feeding green forage, it's advisable to mix it with dry grass, hay, hawthorn vine, or peanut vine to prevent overeating and related issues like diarrhea or bloating. Always feed dry forage first, then introduce the green portion.
Shearing the wool during summer can help sheep dissipate heat more effectively. Keeping the sheds clean at least twice a day and sterilizing them 3–4 times a month is essential for hygiene. Controlling pests like flies and mosquitoes is also important.
Creating a stable and comfortable resting area helps maintain the sheep’s physiological functions and enhances their resistance to heat. Good rest is crucial for maintaining normal production levels during high-temperature periods.
Disease prevention is equally important. Ensuring proper sanitation, regular deworming (0.02 ml per kg body weight), and vaccination against diseases like foot-and-mouth and goatpox are necessary. For diarrhea prevention, administering 80,000 units of gentamicin on an empty stomach in the morning for two days can be effective.
By implementing these measures, farmers can significantly improve the health, comfort, and productivity of their sheep during the summer months.
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