It is during this period that the incidence of urinary calculi increases.
Tiny crystals form in the urine under certain dietary conditions.
The crystals are carried along in the urine flow and block the urethra. Severe blockages cause the bladder to distend and possibly rupture. If rupture occurs, the ram lamb will probably die. Calculi development is related to the intake of magnesium, calcium, phosphorus and potassium. Ammonium chloride can be added to the creep feed to acidify urine.