I have a ewe that dropped a lamb yesterday,

She does not want to nurse.

After taking a good look she appears to have mastitis in one teet; therefore is very tender.

The lamb is still alive and we do not want to bottle feed it.

Things don't look good.

I may have a neighbor who's grand kids may want to bottle feed the lamb, which they have done before.

These are "hair" sheep and are very good eating.

The question is: Can we eat the ewe that has mastitis?

This is a serious question and will not like wise ass comments.

Thank you

The neighbors grand kids want the lamb.

I think I'll give the ewe two weeks then butcher her.

My dad raised sheep for many years.

Seems like he always had 3-4 on the bottle.

Yes! on doing away with the ewe. Chances are it'd happen next time around as well.

so the plan on eating the ewe seems reasonable??

I'd check with a vet, I've heard bad things about mutton however.

No help.


My wife had mastitis.

I laughed like heck when she told me.
Didn't get to use those syringes on her.

She didn't see the humor.

Keep a close eye on her. If she starts running a fever it will be to late to butcher her. And if you decide to treat with antibiotics, you will have to wait till they clear her system.

Yes, as long as the infection is cleared up.

I sure won't eat anything with any sort of infection.

Thanks for the replies. Hate to see young animals suffer.

The lamb was still strong when the neighbors granddaughter took it away. All that little girl wanted was to hold that lamb. "Daddy, Daddy let me hold it" as she stood there in her green John Deer T-shirt.

Thanks. All is good.

Here is an update:

The lamb is doing fine being bottle feed by the young girls, plus sleeping in a dog kennel in their kitchen.

The ewe is also doing fine and never did have mastitis, just did not want her lamb. Will butcher her as soon as she drys up.

Thanks

Good news.

This morning I will slaughter and butcher this ewe.

BTW I use my air compressor with blow gun attached to a section of steel brake line to help remove the hide. Skin first, then gut.