Successful early weaning depends upon how well the lambs are eating. Lambs should be continued on the same feed that was fed during the nursing period and gradually, over a period of 1 to 2 weeks, be converted to the desired postweaning diet. Weaning Lambs . Wean lambs at approximately 60 days of age or when they weight a minimum of 40 pounds. Plan ahead for weaning by removing grain from the ewe's diet at least 1 week prior to weaning.
Feed ewes a low quality roughage diet.
Reducing feed intake of the ewes prior to weaning is the most important step in reducing potential mastitis problems. Early weaned lambs must be started on feed and drinking water prior to weaning. Whenever possible, remove the ewes from the lambs and not the lambs from the ewes. By leaving the lambs in the same location, they will experience less stress, will not have to find the new location of feed and water, and, therefore, are more likely to stay on feed. Move ewes far enough away so that lambs can neither see nor hear them.