The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Sheep => Topic started by: Twotwo on August 19, 2019, 03:40:31 pm

Title: Feeding oats to sheep
Post by: Twotwo on August 19, 2019, 03:40:31 pm

It has been suggested I use oats ( straight un crushed ) to help put condition on my sheep, I can get some also wheat and barley relatively easily and cheaply.  What are your thoughts ! I would need minerals as well,  rams ? also either side of lambing.? At the mo I use SBP and coarse mix ... I’d rather not use imported soya etc.

Title: Re: Feeding oats to sheep
Post by: shep53 on August 20, 2019, 08:04:06 pm

All 3 are suitable for feeding to sheep whole or rolled ,non are particularly high in protein   Barley circa 10%  Wheat  12%   Oats 13%  and yes all need added minerals in some form  ,   all need to be introduced slowly to reduce the chances of acidosis .

Title: Re: Feeding oats to sheep
Post by: landroverroy on August 21, 2019, 01:44:26 pm

Oats has long been traditionally the best grain to feed sheep. I think because it is higher in fibre than the other 2 so less risk of stomach upsets. It also has more than twice the oil content, which is why it is recommended for putting on condition. I would always choose it for sheep over wheat or barley, if I could find some.

Title: Re: Feeding oats to sheep
Post by: Me on August 21, 2019, 02:53:05 pm

Personally, I would avoid wheat as too hot, and wouldn't roll anything

Title: Re: Feeding oats to sheep
Post by: Twotwo on August 21, 2019, 05:03:28 pm

Great I will see if I can get some oats.... maybe mix 50/50 with SBP ..... I know would need start very slowly but how much is safe to give, would it be about the same as coarse mix or cake. Thanks

Title: Re: Feeding oats to sheep
Post by: shep53 on August 22, 2019, 05:00:01 pm

So long as you build up the quantities slowly then final  amount not a problem