Feeding Orphaned Lambs in New Zealand: A Complete Guide

Introduction

Orphaned lambs, known as "bummer lambs" or "poddy lambs" in New Zealand, require round-the-clock care and the right nutrition to thrive. Whether you're dealing with a ewe that has rejected her lamb, a multiple birth where one lamb isn't getting enough milk, or a lamb whose mother has died, this guide will help you give your lamb the best start possible.

The First 24 Hours: Colostrum is Critical

Within the first 6–12 hours of life, lambs must receive colostrum — the first milk produced by the ewe — which is rich in antibodies and essential nutrients. If the mother's colostrum isn't available, source it from:

• Another freshly lambed ewe on your property
• Frozen colostrum (thaw gently in warm water, never microwave)
• Cow colostrum as a last resort
• Commercial colostrum supplements

Aim for at least 200ml per kg of body weight in the first 24 hours, split across 4–6 feeds.

Choosing the Right Lamb Milk Replacer

After the colostrum phase, a quality lamb milk replacer (LMR) is your best option. Look for products with:

• A minimum of 30% fat and 25% protein
• Added vitamins A, D, and E
• No or low lactose to avoid scours

Mix exactly according to the manufacturer's directions — too concentrated can cause diarrhoea, while too dilute won't meet nutritional needs.

Feeding Schedule by Age

Week 1–2: Feed warm milk replacer (38–39°C) every 4 hours — around 5–6 times a day, approximately 150–200ml per feed.

Week 3–4: Reduce to 4 feeds per day, increasing volume to 250–300ml per feed. Introduce fresh water and good-quality hay.

Week 5–6: Move to 3 feeds daily and begin offering lamb pellets or creep feed to encourage rumen development.

Week 7–8: Aim to reduce milk feeds to twice daily as solid feed intake increases.

Weaning (8–10 weeks): Wean when the lamb is eating solid feed well and has at least trebled its birth weight.

Key Tips for Success

• Hygiene: Clean and sterilise all feeding equipment after every use to prevent scours and disease.
• Warmth: Keep young lambs in a draft-free, dry space. A heat lamp can be lifesaving in the first week.
• Socialization: If possible, house the orphan with other lambs so they learn natural behaviours.
• Monitor weight: Weigh lambs every few days — steady gain is a great indicator of health.
• Watch for scours: Diarrhoea is the number one killer of bottle lambs. Act fast if you notice watery or discoloured stools.

Essential Supplements

New Zealand soils can be deficient in key minerals, so consider:

• Selenium: A selenium/vitamin E injection (e.g., Deposel or Seloject) within the first week is highly recommended in selenium-deficient regions.
• Iodine: Important in some NZ regions; discuss with your vet.
• Iron: Particularly relevant for lambs raised indoors without access to soil.

When to Call the Vet

Don't hesitate to contact your vet if your lamb shows signs of:

• Persistent or bloody scours
• Lethargy or inability to stand
• Bloating or abdominal pain
• Laboured breathing or nasal discharge

Final Thoughts

Raising an orphaned lamb is one of the most rewarding experiences on the farm — but it takes commitment, especially in those early weeks. With the right nutrition, warmth, and care, your poddy lamb has every chance of growing into a healthy, thriving animal.

Looking for quality lamb milk replacers, colostrum supplements, or lamb care products? Browse our range at Red Barn Supply Company — proudly supporting New Zealand farmers.