Winter is the season when sheep are typically slaughtered. Ensuring that the sheep are well-fattened before slaughter can significantly enhance both the yield and the quality of the meat. A proper fattening process leads to better results in terms of slaughter rate and meat texture. Here are the key aspects of preparing sheep for optimal fattening before slaughter:
More than 80% of parasites reside inside the sheep's body. If deworming is not done before the fattening period, a large portion of the nutrients from the feed will be absorbed by these parasites, resulting in poor weight gain. Therefore, it's essential to deworm sheep before they are sent for slaughter. The following medications are commonly used for deworming:
- **Trichlorfon**: Administer 0.1 g per kg of body weight, diluted into a 1–3% solution and given orally.
- **Tetraimidazole (Insecticide Net)**: Use 0.02 g per kg of body weight, prepared as a 5% solution.
- **Chlorophenothane (Tetranitrochlorophenol)**: Suitable for sheep that graze all year in humid or low-humidity areas. Give 6–8 mg per kg of body weight orally.
It’s important to administer these drugs on an empty stomach in the morning. After treatment, collect and properly dispose of the feces through biological fermentation to prevent re-infection.
During the fattening period, it’s crucial to minimize physical activity to conserve energy. Sheep should be fed regularly with high-quality compound feeds. A typical daily ration includes: 1.5–1.8 kg of hay or 2.5–3.0 kg of processed straw; 0.1 kg of corn flour; 0.1 kg of alfalfa; 0.1 kg of legumes. If corn is scarce, increase the cornmeal to 0.15 kg. Adjust feed amounts based on weight gain. It’s best to feed in small portions throughout the day.
Feed twice daily—at 6 AM and 5 PM—with warm water (around 30°C) provided after each meal. Store chopped stalks in sheds, and keep corn, beans, and bran in a dry storage area.
The sheep shelter should be kept warm. If the existing structure is large, build a wall about 1 meter high, 2–3 meters away from the main shed, with a door in the center. Place a wooden pole between the wall and the shed, cover it with plastic sheeting, and secure it with thick mud. Ensure proper ventilation and clean the shed regularly to remove waste and change bedding. Excess moisture can lead to respiratory issues, arthritis, and rickets, which can negatively impact the fattening process.
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