Formulating sheep feed depends on factors like their age, weight, production purpose (meat, milk, wool), and whether they’re grazing or fully confined. Here’s a basic guide to help you formulate a balanced sheep diet:
- Understand Nutritional Requirements
Sheep need:
Energy: From carbohydrates (grains, forages)
Protein: For growth, reproduction, lactation (legumes, oilseed meals)
Minerals: Especially calcium, phosphorus, and salt
Vitamins: A, D, E are most important
Water: Clean and constant supply
- Choose Feed Ingredients
Common Ingredients:
Roughage (60–80% of diet):
Hay (grass, alfalfa, clover)
Silage
Pasture
Concentrates (20–40% of diet) (for energy and protein):
Maize/corn
Barley, oats, sorghum
Soybean meal, cottonseed meal
Minerals and vitamins:
Salt licks
Mineral premix
Limestone (for calcium)
- Sample Feed Formulation (Maintenance/General Use)
- Adjust Based on Purpose
Growing lambs: Higher protein (16–18%)
Pregnant ewes (late stage): Increase energy and protein
Lactating ewes: High energy and calcium
Rams (non-breeding): Maintenance diet, lower energy
- Tips for Feeding
Always introduce new feeds gradually.
Avoid high grain content to prevent acidosis.
Provide access to clean water.
Monitor body condition regularly.
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