Determinants of Colostrum Quality in Ewes: Implications for Neonatal Health, Immunity and Production Efficiency
<p>Colostrum acts as the main source of nutrition and immune support for newborn lambs and is vital for their early survival in sheep production systems. Since sheep have limited ability to transfer immunoglobulins, newborn lambs become agammaglobulinemic, relying solely on adequate intake of high-q...
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| Main Authors: | , , , |
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| Format: | Book Chapter |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
IntechOpen
2026
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| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/1244080 |
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| Summary: | <p>Colostrum acts as the main source of nutrition and immune support for newborn lambs and is vital for their early survival in sheep production systems. Since sheep have limited ability to transfer immunoglobulins, newborn lambs become agammaglobulinemic, relying solely on adequate intake of high-quality colostrum for immune protection. Lambs primarily ingest colostrum within the first 16-27 hours after birth, with the highest ingestion rates occurring in the first 2-4 hours postpartum. Consequently, the neonatal period represents a time of increased risk of disease-related death. Rationale: Maternal immunization during pregnancy is often used to prevent diseases in newborns, but its success depends largely on the quality of colostrum, especially its immunoglobulin levels. The active, receptor-mediated absorption of immunoglobulins from colostrum varies significantly based on maternal factors. These include nutritional interventions late in pregnancy, body condition score, parity, environmental and climatic stimuli, as well as management systems. Variability in these factors can hinder passive immune transfer, even when lambs are nursed by vaccinated females. While previous studies have attempted to measure colostrum quality in relation to these factors, there is a clear lack of a comprehensive, sheep-specific synthesis of the key elements influencing colostrum quality and lamb survival. Objectives: This review aims to critically compile relevant data on the biological and immunological importance of colostrum in sheep, as well as identify significant maternal factors, such as in utero feeding, pregnancy vaccination, climate, and management practices that determine colostrum quality in ewes.</p> |
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| ISBN: | 978-1-80631-892-6 |
| DOI: | 10.5772/intechopen.1014521 |