What is a potential health issue associated with overfeeding in sheep?

Overfeeding in sheep can lead to enterotoxemia, which is a serious and often fatal gastrointestinal disease caused by an overgrowth of Clostridium perfringens bacteria in the intestines. When sheep consume excessive amounts of high-energy feeds, such as grain or lush pasture, it can disrupt their normal gut flora and create conditions favorable for these bacteria to thrive.

The production of toxins by Clostridium perfringens can result in severe intestinal damage and systemic toxicity, leading to clinical signs such as diarrhea, lethargy, and, in severe cases, sudden death. Prevention involves careful management of feeding practices, ensuring sheep are gradually introduced to high-energy diets, and maintaining a balanced diet to support gut health.

While acidosis, foot rot, and grass tetany are also relevant health issues in sheep management, they are not directly linked to the specific condition of overfeeding in the same way enterotoxemia is. Acidosis can occur with overfeeding but is more closely associated with the rapid fermentation of carbohydrates in the rumen. Foot rot is caused by bacterial infections in the hooves, and grass tetany is related to magnesium deficiency, often influenced by pasture quality rather than feeding practices alone.