04/10/2026
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Preferred Medications for Common Ailments of Lambs (Field Guide):
Condition,Preferred Medications*&Supportive Care
Neonatal Diarrhoea (Scours):
Preferred Medications
Oral electrolyte solution, probiotics, zinc supplementation; antibiotics only if septicemia is suspected and prescribed by a veterinarian
Supportive Care
Continue milk feeding, prevent dehydration
Navel Ill (Omphalitis):
Preferred Medications
Broad-spectrum antibiotics as prescribed, 7% iodine tincture for navel dressing
Supportive Care
Maintain clean lambing environment
Pneumonia:
Preferred Medications
Appropriate veterinary-prescribed antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs if required
Supportive Care
Warm, dry, well-ventilated housing
Septicemia:
Preferred Medications
Immediate veterinary treatment, systemic antibiotics, IV fluids
Supportive Care
Intensive nursing care
Coccidiosis:
preferred Medications
Toltrazuril or Diclazuril as prescribed
Supportive Care
Dry bedding, reduce overcrowding
Enterotoxemia (Pulpy Kidney Disease):
Preferred Medications
Antitoxin (where available), supportive therapy
Supportive care
Vaccination is the best prevention
Constipation / Meconium Retention:
Preferred Medications
Liquid paraffin under veterinary supervision
Supportive Care
Ensure adequate colostrum intake
Orf (Contagious Ecthyma):
Preferred Medications
Topical antiseptics, antibiotics for secondary infections
Supportive Care
Isolate affected lambs
Joint Ill (Septic Arthritis):
preferred Medications
Early antibiotic therapy prescribed by veterinarian
Supportive Care
Navel hygiene and clean lambing pens
Weak Lamb Syndrome:
preferred Medications
Energy supplements, glucose therapy, Vitamin B-complex
Supportive Care
Warmth and adequate colostrum
Essential Lamb Care:
1. Feed colostrum within the first 2 hours after birth.
2. Dip the navel in 7% iodine tincture immediately after birth.
3. Provide a clean, dry, draft-free lambing pen.
4. Monitor for diarrhea, cough, weakness, swollen joints, and poor suckling.
5. Vaccinate ewes before lambing against Enterotoxemia and Tetanus.
6. Consult the local veterinarian before administering medicines.
“Early diagnosis, colostrum feeding, hygiene and timely veterinary care are the keys to healthy lamb survival.”
| Dr. M.S. Saravanan, B.V.Sc., M.A., PGDCM
