Orf usually occurs in a mild form in a small proportion of lambs each year. Lambs can be treated by 'scratching' inside the foreleg, usually after four to five days old. Preparation for Lambing Plan to have the lambing quarters ready at least 2 weeks before lambing is due to commence. Restock the 'medicine cupboard'. The importance of getting colostrum into the lamb cannot be over-emphasised.
Colostrum is instrumental in the protection against hypothermia and watery mouth.
Ewe colostrum is preferable but if not available cow colostrum or powder sachets will suffice. Occasionally cow colostrum can cause anaemia in lambs, though incidences are rare. Hypothermia is one of the main causes of lamb death and is not difficult to diagnose. The majority of cereal crops at Greenmount are over-wintering well. An unsprayed late-sown winter wheat crop, however, is starting to show significant weed germination.