Sheep are farm animals that are reared for their meat. If you are flock herded and are interested in what sheep can eat, this article is for you.
FOOD - A
Can Sheep Eat Acorns?
No, sheep should not eat acorns. Acorns contain toxins called Tannin. When consumed, tannin cause the tissues of the body to contract, leading to an improper absorption of protein which could seriously harm the gastrointestinal tract, liver and kidneys. If you suspect your sheep has consumed acorns, give it plenty of water and call your vet immediately.
Can Sheep Eat Agapanthus?
No, agapanthus should be kept away from sheep. This plant has a sticky sap that contains a toxin called Saponin. Saponin causes irritations on the skin, burnings around the mouth and also stomach inflammation (also known as gastritis) when consumed. If there is a case of exposure to this plant, give your vet a call.
Can Sheep Eat Alder?
Yes, sheep can eat alder. Alder contains certain mineral elements such as zinc and cobalt. Its leaves contain fiber while its catkins contain protein, fats and vitamins. This plant is mainly used for survival purposes or as a supplement and not as the main feed for sheep because its nutrients are all in trace amounts.
Can Sheep Eat Alfalfa Cubes?
Yes, sheep can eat alfalfa cubes. Alfalfa cubes are proteinous and high in fiber. They contain vitamins (such as tocopherol and ascorbic acid), mineral elements like calcium and micronutrients that are needed for boosting the immune system of the sheep. Alfalfa cubes can be made suitable for sheep to consume by pulverizing them.
Can Sheep Eat Alfalfa Hay?
Yes, sheep can eat alfalfa hay. Alfalfa hay is a good source of protein, vitamins and mineral elements such as calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus and even potassium. It is also a superb source of fiber which aids digestion and maintains the weight of the sheep. Alfalfa hay should be served in moderated quantities to sheep to prevent bloat.
Can Sheep Eat Alfalfa Pellets?
Yes, sheep can eat alfalfa pellets. Alfalfa pellets contain protein and fiber in levels higher than that in hay. They are also high in calcium which is important for the production of milk. However, sheep should not dwell solely on a diet of alfalfa pellets; they should only be used as supplements.
Can Sheep Eat Almonds?
Yes, sheep can eat sweet almonds. Almonds contain high levels of protein and vitamins that sheep need. They also contain fiber which helps to keep the body weight of the sheep in check. Sweet almonds should however, be served in moderation, while bitter almonds should be kept out of their reach as they contain a toxin called cyanide.
Can Sheep Eat Aloe Vera?
No, sheep cannot eat aloe vera. The leaf of the aloe vera plant is coarse and has spikes on it which makes it unsafe for them. The leaves also contain toxins like Saponin and Selanine which can cause irritations and burnings around the mouth. If you suspect your sheep have consumed this plant, consult your vet immediately.
Can Sheep Eat Alpaca Feed?
Yes, sheep can eat alpaca feed. Alpacas and sheep are both ruminants and have similar stomach structure. Though supplements may be needed (depending on the content of the nutrients in the feed), alpaca feed can give your sheep a nutritionally balanced diet. Using alpaca feed for your sheep must be done under the supervision of your vet.
Can Sheep Eat Alpaca Pellets?
No, sheep cannot eat alpaca pellet. Alpaca pellets are loaded with fiber which will be too much for the sheep if it consumes it. Foods whose fiber content are too high for your sheep can cause digestive worries such as bloating. If your sheep consumes alpaca feed, it may be fine depending on the quantity consumed, but call your vet either way.
Can Sheep Eat Alsike Clover?
Can Sheep Eat Amaranth?
Yes, sheep can eat amaranth in light quantities. Amaranth is a good source of mineral elements like copper and calcium, it is also highly proteinous, but it must be eaten in light quantities especially if they have not been introduced to it before.This is because consuming amaranth in large quantities can lead to tubular nephrosis (a kidney problem). Sheep will consume this plant in large quantities when exposed to a pasture where it is abundant but their desirable forage isn’t.
Can Sheep Eat Apples?
Yes, sheep can eat apples in light amounts. Apples are loaded with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, potassium and antioxidants. Serve your sheep apples in moderation to avoid the build up of gases which could lead to bloating. When serving your sheep, cut the apples into smaller pieces or crush them to prevent choking hazards, and get rid of the seeds because they could be poisonous.
Can Sheep Eat Apple Core?
No, sheep cannot eat apple core. The core of an apple houses the seeds which are poisonous to sheep. The seeds contain a substance called amygdalin which, when consumed and digested, will release cyanide into the blood steam. Cyanide will inhibit oxygen utilization by the cells, leading to their death.
Can Sheep Eat Apple Leaves?
Can Sheep Eat Apple Peels?
Yes, sheep can eat apple peel. Apple peel is an excellent source of fiber and mineral elements such as potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus and folate. It also has, in reasonable amounts, vitamins such as vitamin A (Retinol) and vitamin C (Ascorbic acid). Apple peel will help keep your sheep’s heart healthy and weight in check.
Can Sheep Eat Apple Seeds?
No, sheep cannot eat apple seeds. Apple seeds contain amygdalin. When apple seeds are consumed and digested, amygdalin in it is converted to cyanide which then flows into the bloodstream. Cyanide can inhibit the utilization of oxygen which the cells in the body of your sheep need, resulting in the death of the cells.
Can Sheep Eat Apricots?
Yes, sheep can eat apricot, but it must be in restricted and controlled amounts. Apricots are rich in vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin E. It also contain beta-carotene, other carotenoids, potassium and fiber. If you must feed your sheep apricots, get rid of the pit because it contains amygdalin which releases cyanide into the bloodstream when consumed.
Can Sheep Eat Apples and Carrots?
Yes, sheep can eat apples and carrots in moderated amounts. Apples and carrots both contain Vitamin A, vitamin B3, and mineral elements like zinc and calcium. Both are low in calories, which means decreased chances of obesity in your sheep. Sheep can eat apples and carrots but it must be in moderation.
Can Sheep Eat Arugula?
Yes, sheep can eat arugula. Arugula is a good source of nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C and folic acid. It also contains antioxidants and is a good source of mineral elements like iron and calcium. However, your sheep must not consume too much of this plant to avoid abdominal cramping.
Can Sheep Eat Artichoke?
Yes, sheep can eat artichokes. Artichokes contain mineral elements and electrolytes such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, zinc and copper. They also contain useful vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, folate, riboflavin and niacin. Artichokes will help improve the health of your sheep’s liver and also its digestive health.
Can Sheep Eat Asparagus?
Yes, sheep can eat asparagus. Asparagus contains substances that are beneficial to the health of your sheep such as anti-inflammatory agents and antioxidants. It is also an excellent source of potassium, fiber and vitamins. Asparagus should be served to sheep in moderation and as a treat or part of a balanced diet.
