Protein Requirements for Sheep Throughout Their Life Stages 

Protein is the building block for cells. As sheep producers, you know that to ensure the health of your flock, nutrition should be at the top of your priority list. Protein is a vital part of quality nutrition.   

When the ewe’s diet is deficient in protein, fetal development, growth and milk production are all compromised. That’s where the importance of protein requirements for sheep comes in.   

At BioZyme^®, the makers of DuraFerm^®, we specialize in vitamin and mineral supplements to strengthen your stock by supporting reproductive success and enhancing overall health. DuraFerm is a line of nutritional supplements for sheep and goats that promotes optimal digestion and nutrition for maximized performance at every stage of production.    

That’s why our team created this resource to address the protein requirements for sheep and how we can help you meet them. 

Protein Requirements Range Based on Life Stage 

The protein requirements for sheep vary depending on their age, weight, production stage and activity level. Here is a general guideline: 

Lactating Ewes 

• Lactating ewes require significant amounts of protein to produce milk. 

• Their protein requirements usually range from 16-18% crude protein (CP), as milk production can be quite demanding for their resources. In addition to producing milk and raising lambs, they are also trying to maintain their condition. 

Finishing Lambs  

• For lambs raised for meat, protein levels are often higher to support rapid muscle growth. 

• Protein requirements for feeder lambs can also range from 16-18% CP or more, depending on the target market weight and growth rate. 

Pregnant Ewes 

• The protein needs of pregnant ewes increase during the last trimester, especially as they support the growth of their fetuses. 

• The dietary protein requirement can range from 12-16% CP, with a higher percentage needed in the final stages of pregnancy. 

Growing Lambs 

• For growing lambs, protein needs to increase as they build muscle. 

• A typical range is 14-16% CP for lambs in early growth stages. 

Maintenance 

• For adult sheep in maintenance, such as rams or ewes not in lactation or their third trimester, the protein requirement is around 8-12% CP. 

• This ensures that they maintain their weight and general health. 

Sources of Protein for the Flock 

Several protein sources exist for your sheep. The critical thing to remember is a balance of energy, fiber and protein is vital in the diet for optimal sheep health, growth and productivity. 

Forage 

If sheep are grazing on high-quality pasture or fed hay with high protein content, their protein intake is more likely to be met. Remember, you can’t always judge a book by its cover, so it is important to test your hay for nutrient quality.  

BioZyme offers complimentary hay testing services to its customers. If you are a current DuraFerm customer who wants to test your hay, contact your local dealer for more information.  

Supplementation 

In cases where forage alone doesn’t meet protein requirements for sheep, concentrated feeds like grains, soybean meal or alfalfa are often used to supplement the diet.  

Additionally, DuraFerm knows the value of protein for sheep. That’s why we created the DuraFerm^® Concept•Aid^® Sheep Protein Tub.    

The DuraFerm Concept•Aid Sheep Protein Tub is a protein tub with vitamins and minerals for sheep designed to support reproductive success. This 125-pound tub:   

• Contains AO-Biotics^® Amaferm^®, a prebiotic research-proven to enhance digestibility  

• Contains the Concept•Aid sheep mineral package in a 16% natural protein tub  

• Supports embryo production and conception using organic trace minerals and high levels of vitamin E.  

This tub combines Amaferm, Concept•Aid, organic trace minerals and protein, making it the ideal solution for producers during late gestation and lactation.  

Strengthen Your Stock with Protein Tubs for Sheep     

Adding protein to your flock seems like a simple choice. However, with DuraFerm, you also offer adequate protein, the other nutrients you need and a prebiotic that will benefit your flock, like Amaferm.    

You’ve invested in quality genetics for your flock. It is time to strengthen your stock with a quality vitamin and mineral supplement with adequate protein to help your flock perform to its optimum.     

Simply add DuraFerm to your operation. Get the added protein you need to strengthen your stock during the critical times they need it most with protein tubs for sheep—DuraFerm^® Concept•Aid® Sheep Protein Tub.   

Buy your DuraFerm Today!     

You can purchase DuraFerm products powered by AO-Biotics Amaferm. DuraFerm is available through the extensive BioZyme dealer network. Locate a dealer near you today. DuraFerm offers products that support reproduction, resilience and retention. What more could you ask for?       

You can also gather more information about DuraFerm from our educational blog series or by signing up for our newsletter.