Urea can partially replace protein in sheep feed, as it contains about 46% nitrogen and is slightly soluble in water. One gram of urea provides nitrogen equivalent to 2.88 grams of protein. After feeding, microorganisms in the sheep’s rumen break down urea and synthesize microbial protein, which is eventually absorbed in the intestines. This makes urea an effective non-protein nitrogen supplement. However, there are several important precautions:
Dosage: Generally, urea is given at 0.02%-0.05% of sheep body weight, about 5 grams per adult sheep daily. Start with one-tenth of the recommended dose, gradually increasing it over 10 days to allow adaptation.（feed additive）
Feeding Method: To prevent urea toxicity, feed 2-3 times daily, dissolving urea in a small amount of water and mixing it with concentrate feed. Avoid giving water immediately after feeding. The diet should also include sufficient energy, such as soluble carbohydrates, 6%-10% protein, and minerals, to ensure proper urea utilization. If feeding is interrupted, restart with one-tenth of the dose and gradually increase.
Precautions:
(1) Do not feed urea to sick, weak, or young sheep.
(2) Avoid mixing urea with raw soybeans, legumes, or alfalfa seeds, as they contain urease, which breaks down urea into ammonia and carbon dioxide, potentially causing harm.
(3) Urea residues can affect meat quality, so stop feeding urea before slaughter.
(4) Overfeeding urea can cause toxicity, leading to reduced appetite, lethargy, coordination issues, convulsions, trembling, and respiratory distress. In severe cases, death may occur within 2-3 hours without treatment. In case of poisoning, administer 20%-30% sugar solution or 10-100 grams of vinegar diluted with 5-8 parts water, based on sheep size.