As the production status of the sheep in your flock changes, so will the amounts and types of feeds they need. This fact sheet will take a look at both feeds for the sheep flock as well as how those feeds change with the production status of the animals in the flock. Water Water is by far the most essential feed in a ration. Fresh, clean water should be available at all times. Stale or dirty water will decrease feed intake which ultimately will decrease an animal s growth.
Water can also affect the uptake of minerals as well as the elimination of body wastes.
Be sure to plan for increased water intake when the temperature is above 70 degrees F and during very cold temperatures. Also, keep in mind that milk production depends largely on an unlimited supply of fresh water. Pasture Pasture is an excellent source of nutrients for the sheep flock as well as one of the cheapest sources of feed. Pastures should be kept in a vegetative state or in other words it should be green and growing for animals to get the most out of the feed source. Throughout the growing season, pastures should be either grazed or clipped to prevent the plants from producing seed heads.