Ammonia poisoning in sheep typically presents with a range of symptoms, including lethargy, unsteady gait, reduced appetite, and decreased rumination. Some animals may even stop ruminating altogether. Excessive salivation is common, often leading to drooling from the mouth. In severe cases, affected sheep may show signs of restlessness, muscle tremors, movement difficulties, and even forelimb paralysis. They may also experience excessive foamy saliva, difficulty breathing, and eventually collapse due to suffocation. Chronic exposure can lead to lung edema, kidney inflammation, or urethritis, along with metabolic imbalances. Affected animals may urinate frequently, have painful urination, and exhibit purulent discharge from the urethra. Rams might show swelling of the genital area.
With the increasing use of straw-raising techniques in rural areas, many farmers have recognized that ammoniated forage is a valuable option for feeding sheep. However, improper handling during the process can lead to ammonia buildup, which can be dangerous if sheep consume or inhale excessive amounts of residual ammonia. This can result in serious health issues and unnecessary economic losses.
If ammonia poisoning is suspected, it's crucial to immediately stop feeding ammoniated forage and provide emergency treatment. A recommended approach is to administer 20–40 ml of sodium glutamate mixed with 200–400 ml of 10% glucose solution via intravenous drip. Sodium glutamate helps bind ammonia in the blood, making it less toxic and allowing it to be excreted through urine. Additionally, vinegar can be given orally—about 0.1–0.2 kg mixed with water (5–8 times the volume) to lower the pH of the rumen content. This prevents further ammonia decomposition and reduces the risk of absorption and alkalosis. For chronic cases, antibiotics such as penicillin or streptomycin may be administered via injection to prevent secondary infections. Once the animal shows improvement, digestive aids like tangerine peel or hibiscus can help restore the microbial balance in the rumen and support recovery.
To prevent ammonia poisoning, several precautions should be taken. First, ensure proper ammoniation by adjusting the process based on seasonal temperatures and allowing sufficient maturation time. After fermentation, the forage should be aired out thoroughly—ideally for over 10 hours on sunny days or more than 24 hours on cloudy days. Only feed the forage when the ammonia smell is mild and not irritating. Second, keep the ammoniation site and the storage area separate from the sheep’s living space to avoid accidental inhalation. Ensure good ventilation in the barn. Third, avoid feeding ammoniated forage to non-weaned lambs, as their rumen microbes are still developing and more sensitive to ammonia. These steps can significantly reduce the risk of ammonia-related health issues in sheep.
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