Lambing and Kidding Lecture Notes

Comprehensive practice questions covering the signs of labor, delivery process, neonatal care, and weaning timelines for sheep and goats.

What is the term for mammary system development in sheep and goats as they approach birth?

"Bagging up"

How does the timing of "bagging up" differ based on the number of fetuses?

Ewes and does with multiple fetuses will bag up earlier than females with singles.

How does milk expression in sheep and goats differ from swine relative to the onset of labor?

In sheep and goats, milk can be expressed well prior to the onset of labor, in contrast to swine.

What physical change occurs in the tailhead of a goat prior to parturition?

The tailhead ligaments soften and relax, causing the vertebrae at the base of the tail to become visibly lifted.

What are several behavioral and physical signs of labor in ewes and does?

Restless/nesting, vocalization, isolation/withdrawing from the herd, anorexia, discharge, and contractions/pushing.

What is the expected timeframe for a normal delivery once a ewe or doe's membranes (water) break?

Within a couple of hours.

What is the definition of dystocia in a doe or ewe during labor?

Failure to deliver within $1$ hour of active pushing.

What are three benefits provided by lambing/kidding pens?

They facilitate bonding, allow the newborn easier access to nurse, and provide warmth and protection.

What treatment is applied to the umbilical cord of a lamb or kid to prevent Naval Ill?

Dipping the umbilical cord with tamed iodine.

What qualitative and quantitative methods are used to monitor the appetite and vigor of newborns?

Feeling for full bellies (qualitative) and weighing (quantitative).

Within what timeframe should the placenta pass post-parturition?

Between $18$ and $24$ hours.

What are the common and early weaning ages for kids and lambs?

They are typically weaned at $8$ weeks, but can be weaned as early as $5$ weeks.

What is the specific weaning age used by the Animal Care program in the transcript?

$3$ months.