Sheep and Lamb diarrhea: How we treat it?

Introduction

• Colibacillosis in Lambs
• Symptoms in Live Animals
• Signs in Dead Animals
• Treatment
• Paratyphoid (Salmonellosis)
• Symptoms
• Postmortem
• Treatment
• Causes of Sheep and Lamb Diarrhea
• Bacterial Infections
• Viral Infections
• Parasitic Infections
• Dietary Causes
• Environmental Stress
• Managing Sheep and Lamb Diarrhea
• Prevention Tips for Sheep and Lamb Diarrhea

Sheep and Lamb diarrhea is one of the most common health problems in flocks, especially among young animals. When sheep and goats develop stomach infections, their droppings often become soft, watery, and smelly—signs that indicate diarrhea symptoms in goats and sheep.

Sheep and Lamb diarrhea may occur due to bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, sudden dietary changes, or environmental stressors. If not addressed promptly, it can lead to dehydration, poor growth, and even death in severe cases.

One of the most frequent causes of Sheep and Lamb diarrhea in neonates is colibacillosis, a bacterial infection caused by E. coli. It usually affects lambs and kids under two weeks of age.

Factors that increase risk include:

• Lack of colostrum intake after birth
• Dirty, damp kraals or paddocks
• Concurrent illness making young animals more vulnerable
• Stress from relocation or overcrowding

The bacteria spread through contaminated food, water, or bedding, making it critical to maintain strict hygiene standards to prevent colibacillosis in lambs and manage Sheep and Lamb diarrhea effectively.

• Depression and reduced appetite
• Watery, whitish-yellow or grey lamb diarrhea, often referred to as white scours
• Swollen umbilical cord
• Soiled hind legs
• Rapid dehydration

• The intestines appear inflamed and filled with pale, watery content
• No definitive lesions without lab testing

Colibacillosis responds to antibiotics. A veterinarian should determine the best antibiotic for sheep diarrhea, based on age, symptoms, and local resistance patterns. Additionally, rehydration with electrolyte solutions is essential.

Vaccinating ewes and does 6–8 weeks before birth helps prevent Sheep and Lamb diarrhea in newborns.

Another bacterial cause of Sheep and Lamb diarrhea is salmonellosis, which typically affects older lambs and 1–2-year-old sheep and goats. It arises in stressful conditions like:

• Movement to a feedlot or abattoir
• Sudden switch to high-concentrate diets
• Overcrowded or unsanitary environments

• Fever and anorexia
• Green sheep diarrhea, occasionally with blood
• Weakness, dehydration, and potential death within 7 days

• Foul-smelling liquid in the gut
• Sometimes partially digested plant material is visible

Immediate hydration and administration of activated charcoal can help in mild cases. However, salmonellosis often requires the best antibiotic for sheep diarrhea, as prescribed by a vet.

Understanding the underlying causes is key to treating and preventing Sheep and Lamb diarrhea effectively. These can be grouped into:

• E. coli: Major cause of colibacillosis in lambs.
• Salmonella: Triggers Sheep and Lamb diarrhea with systemic signs.
• Clostridium perfringens: Types C & D cause enterotoxemia, especially after grain overload.

• Rotavirus and coronavirus affect gut health, causing severe dehydration and Sheep and Lamb diarrhea outbreaks.

• Coccidiosis: Caused by Eimeria, leading to bloody or mucus-filled diarrhea.
• Gastrointestinal worms: Such as Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus, damage the intestinal lining.

• Sudden feed changes
• Moldy or spoiled feed
• Excessive grain leading to ruminal acidosis and Sheep and Lamb diarrhea

• Overcrowding
• Poor hygiene
• Heat, cold, or transport stress

Prompt action is essential when you observe diarrhea symptoms in goats and sheep. Here's what to do:

• Isolate affected animals
• Offer clean water and electrolyte solutions
• Give activated charcoal to absorb toxins
• Prevent fly strike by cleaning soiled hindquarters
• Consult a veterinarian to identify the root cause
• If bacterial infection is suspected, the vet will prescribe the best antibiotic for sheep diarrhea

Proper treatment and early intervention can significantly reduce the mortality caused by Sheep and Lamb diarrhea.

1. Vaccinate ewes before lambing
2. Ensure colostrum intake within the first few hours
3. Maintain clean, dry living areas
4. Avoid sudden dietary changes
5. Deworm regularly and manage parasites
6. Avoid overcrowding
7. Isolate new or sick animals to prevent spread

Preventive care is far more effective than treating widespread outbreaks of Sheep and Lamb diarrhea.

Sheep and Lamb diarrhea is preventable and manageable with the right care, hygiene, nutrition, and veterinary support. Early detection and correct treatment—especially using the best antibiotic for sheep diarrhea when required—can save lives and reduce economic losses in your flock.