THE IMPORTANCE OF FEEDING IN THE LATE GESTATION: Late gestation is the last six weeks prior to kidding. Late gestation is probably the most critical period for ewe and doe nutrition. Ewes and does will gain weight during this phase of production. 70% of foetal growth occurs during this period. Mammary tissue is also developing. Proper nutrition is necessary to prevent pregnancy toxaemia (ketosis) and milk fever (low blood calcium). Nutrition affects the birth weights of your kids. There is a higher mortality among small and large kids. Oversized foetuses increase dystocia (birthing difficulties). Aim for a body condition of 3.0 to 3.5. Young females should be fed separately from mature females. In addition to gestating, they are still growing and have higher nutritional requirements. Often times, they have difficulty competing for feeder space with mature females who would bully the younger does who in turn do not get to eat well as a result.
Posted on: Sat, 06 Dec 2014 12:00:01 +0000
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