Nutritional programming of young sheep to improve later-life production and resistance to nematode parasites: a brief review

Abstract

Nutritional supplementation, particularly with high quality protein, can increase the resistance and resilience of sheep to infection with gastrointestinal nematode parasites. Nonetheless, this approach to improved nematode parasite control has not been widely adopted, probably because the cost of supplements is usually greater than the immediate production benefits that are conferred. Evidence is presented to support the proposition that long-term effects on liveweight, wool production, reproductive performance and immunity to nematode infection can be programmed through strategic supplementation of sheep during periods of nutritional scarcity. Where optimal efficiency of lifetime production is desired, particular attention should be paid to ensuring that nutritional needs are met and negative impacts of nematode parasitism are minimised during lactation and around the time of weaning.