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Resistance
Apart from the infection risks, the resistance of the lamb plays a major role.
Lambs obtain their specific immunity through the ewe's colostrum.
Insufficient colostrum intake will make the animals more susceptible. This passive immunity will pass away in the course of about 8 weeks.
Therefore it is crucial for lambs to gradually build up their own resistance.
In the first 8 weeks lambs are vulnerable and it is therefore important to take extra care of hygiene, nutrition, health care and farm feeding practices.
If growth stays behind in the milk-feeding period, it usually cannot be compensated after weaning.
Body temperature
In case of doubt, it is recommended to check the body temperature. This normally lies between 38.5 and 39.5°C.
When the temperature is around 39.5 and 40°C it is said to be high. A temperature above 40°C is called fever.
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