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Problems With Newborn Lambs and Calves Suckling

1 June 2020

We have had more reports this year of newborn lambs and calves having problems suckling.  In some cases it appears that the young themselves will not suckle and when checked and encouraged appear not to even have a suckling reflex.  In other cases it appears that more calves are being rejected by their dam, particularly with first calvers.  Assisting calves to suckle and dealing with cows that reject their calf is a major drain on resources and also presents a challenge to health and safety on farm.  

 It would be very helpful to know how widespread these problems have been and we would be very grateful if you could let us know if you have had similar problems by e-mailing val.angus@sac.co.uk  Also any tips you might have on how to cure or even prevent it, which would could pass on to others would be fantastic.   

 Basil Lowman 

Cow suckling calf in field

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