Best Feed for Lambs – 2025 Reviews

Lambs have dramatically different nutritional needs as they grow. Newborns require milk or high-quality replacer for the first few weeks, then gradually transition to solid feed. The weaning period is critical—too early and they won’t get enough nutrients, too late and they might not develop proper rumen function.

Watch for signs they’re ready for solids: nibbling at hay, showing interest in feed, and maintaining good body condition. Most lambs can start on starter feed around 3-4 weeks old.

Milk replacers are essential for orphans or when ewe milk is insufficient. Look for all-milk protein formulas rather than plant-based proteins, as lambs digest them more efficiently. The fat content should be around 20-30% for proper energy.

Solid feeds come in textured (mixed grains with molasses) or pelleted forms. Textured feeds often have better palatability initially, while pellets reduce waste and ensure consistent nutrient intake. Many farmers start with textured and transition to pellets.

Protein quality is crucial—look for balanced amino acid profiles that support both muscle development and wool growth. For milk replacers, all-milk protein is superior to soy or other plant proteins.

Fiber content should be appropriate for age—too much fiber too early can hinder digestion, while insufficient fiber later can cause digestive issues. Also watch for added probiotics or yeast cultures that support gut health during stressful periods.

Medicated feeds for coccidiosis prevention can be valuable during weaning or high-stress times. Decoquinate is commonly used and safe when fed as directed.

Always check that sheep feeds contain no added copper—sheep are highly sensitive to copper toxicity. Some feeds include sodium molybdate to protect against copper accumulation from other sources.

Lambs can be picky eaters, especially during transitions. Feeds with molasses or other natural attractants often have better intake rates. The physical form matters too—some lambs prefer the variety of textured feeds, while others do well with consistent pellets.

If consumption drops, check for freshness, proper storage, and whether the feed meets their current nutritional needs. Sometimes a simple change in presentation or gradual mixing with previous feed solves the issue.

Regular weight checks and body condition scoring tell you more than any feed label. Lambs should show steady growth without becoming too fat or too thin. Adjust feeding amounts based on actual consumption rather than following generic charts.

Keep detailed records of feed intake, growth rates, and any health issues. This data helps you fine-tune your feeding program and catch problems early when they’re easiest to correct.

Most lambs can begin nibbling on solid feed around 2-3 weeks of age, but they won’t consume significant amounts until 4-6 weeks. Start with a small amount of high-quality starter feed and gradually increase as they show interest and capability. The key is to have them eating well before weaning at 8-12 weeks.

Newborn lambs need feeding every 3-4 hours for the first week, then you can gradually extend to every 6-8 hours. Always follow the manufacturer’s mixing instructions precisely—too concentrated can cause digestive issues, too diluted won’t provide enough nutrition. The goal is to mimic natural feeding patterns as closely as possible.

Not necessarily—medicated feeds are most valuable during high-stress periods like weaning, weather changes, or when introducing new animals. If your operation has history of coccidiosis or other specific health challenges, preventive medication makes sense. For low-stress environments with good sanitation, non-medicated feeds may be sufficient.

Yes, but lamb-specific formulas are usually better optimized for sheep nutrition. Multi-species replacers work in a pinch and are great for farms with multiple species, but they may not have the ideal protein-to-fat ratio or specific nutrients that maximize lamb growth. If using multi-species, choose one with all-milk protein and appropriate fat levels.

Always transition gradually over 7-10 days, mixing increasing amounts of the new feed with the old. Watch closely for signs of digestive upset like loose stools or decreased appetite. Providing probiotics or digestive supplements during transitions can help maintain gut health. Ensure fresh water is always available, as dehydration worsens digestive issues.