Watery Mouth in Lambs

What causes watery mouth?

Watery mouth is caused by an E. coli infection of the gut in newborn lambs, which releases toxins and can lead to septicaemia. Over the last few years we have worked closely with our farm clients to cut watery mouth cases while reducing reliance on antibiotics, and many flocks have improved lamb survival as a result. Minimal use of antibiotics is important to reduce the risk of resistance, which we have seen evidence of on several occasions.

Prevention starts with colostrum and hygiene

Gold-standard colostrum management and strict hygiene around lambing areas are critical in preventing watery mouth. Every lamb needs enough colostrum within 24 hours of birth, and vaccination alone will not prevent watery mouth.

Vaccinating ewes before lambing

Vaccinating pregnant ewes boosts the antibodies they pass on to their lambs against E. coli. We originally used Imocolibov, which has since been taken off the market. Since then we have trialled Bovigen Scour, a cattle vaccine, in pre-lambing ewes (off licence) with very encouraging results, and clients are keen to use it again.

• A single 1ml dose under the skin, given 3 months to 3 weeks before lambing.
• Some flocks vaccinate every pregnant ewe, depending on the risk factors on the farm. Others vaccinate only high-risk ewes, such as those carrying triplets and ewe lambs.
• We usually advise giving different vaccines 2 weeks apart, although some clients have given Bovigen Scour and Heptavac P at the same time (off licence) with no ill effects.
• Bovigen Scour’s shelf life has changed from 10 hours to 10 days, which makes it much easier to use.

Other options at birth

• Probiotic drench: giving an oral probiotic at birth to at-risk lambs helps keep the gut flora healthy.
• Locatim: a concentrated antibody oral solution, a cattle product used off licence, to boost E. coli antibody levels in lambs at birth. We advise a 2ml dose by mouth at birth.

Remember, lambs still need their normal colostrum for energy, minerals and vitamins.

Talk to our farm vets

Vaccines and these treatments are vet prescribed and ordered on a farm-by-farm basis. To discuss the best options for your flock, call our farm team on 01608 730085 or email farm@hooknortonvets.co.uk. You can also find out about our FarmSkills courses and meetings.