Learning Objectives

• Explain what puts a sheep at risk for pregnancy toxemia.
• Describe what conditions may lead to pregnancy toxemia.
• Explain how pregnancy toxemia can be avoided.
• Demonstrate knowledge of why glucose is important to physiological functioning and complications of low blood glucose.
• Describe the impact of multiple fetuses on rumen function.

Ruminant Digestive System Review

Before watching this video, think of what you know about the ruminant digestive system as well as animal nutrition. If you are in a group setting, consider doing a think-pair-share, where you think through the question, compare your answers with a partner, then share to the group. Some questions to think about are as follows:

• How are different macromolecules, like sugars and carbohydrates, important to an animal’s health?
• How is a ruminant system different than a non-ruminant?
• How can an imbalance of macromolecules affect your digestive system? How might they affect a ruminant’s system?

Pregnancy Toxemia in Ewes

Watch the first half of the following to learn about how an issue with the digestive system can impact pregnancy in ewes. The second half of the video goes into another interesting metabolic disease that impacts sheep pregnancy, but will not be a part of this course or the cases, and is optional to view if you are interested in it.

Case Studies

In a small group, or by yourself, work through these cases, testing out your new knowledge.

Assessment

Now that you are pregnancy toxemia pros, take this short quiz to test yourself!