What substance from the mother is crucial for the health and immunity of young sheep?

Colostrum is the first milk produced by the mother sheep shortly after giving birth, and it plays a vital role in the health and immunity of young sheep. This substance is rich in antibodies, essential nutrients, and immunoglobulins that provide passive immunity to lambs during their early life. Unlike regular milk, colostrum is specifically designed to equip the newborn with the necessary components to help fight off infections and diseases in the critical early days after birth.

This initial intake is crucial because lambs are born with little to no immunity of their own. The antibodies present in colostrum are absorbed by the lamb’s intestines within the first few hours of life, significantly influencing their ability to resist illness and promoting overall health. Failure to receive colostrum can lead to a condition known as failure of passive transfer, which can result in increased susceptibility to infections and other health issues.

While milk and protein are important for the growth and continued health of lambs after they have received colostrum, they do not provide the same immediate immune support. The term "foal" refers specifically to a young horse, which is irrelevant in the context of sheep management. Thus, colostrum's unique properties make it the most critical substance for ensuring the