Abstract:The low reproductive rates and suboptimal breeding efficiency of meat-type sheep have become critical bottlenecks constraining the development of the mutton sheep industry. Ewe productivity is influenced by multiple factors, including genetic traits, management practices, and feed nutrition, among which precise nutritional regulation is particularly vital for enhancing reproductive efficiency. Leveraging the advantages of TMR (Total Mixed Ration) technology, this study conducted trials on phased precision feeding for crossbred ewes and early supplementary feeding for lambs at two large-scale sheep farms in Linxia County, Gansu Province. The results demonstrated that:Reproductive performance: Compared to the control group, the experimental groups showed increases in estrus rate by 10.98-19.51% (Group II: 98%,?p<0.01), conception rate by 11.43-15.71% (Group II: 92.86%,?p<0.01), and lambing rate by 33.63-62.18% (Group II: 217%), with Group II exhibiting optimal comprehensive reproductive indicators.Lamb growth performance: After 50 days of continuous supplementary feeding (10-60 days of age), the daily weight gain of Groups I and III reached 0.25-0.26 kg/d, representing a 43%-49% improvement over the control group (0.175 kg/d), and their 60-day weights (18.13 kg, 18.05 kg) were significantly higher than the control group (13.99 kg,?p<0.05).The trials confirmed that precise nutritional regulation using TMR technology across key reproductive stages (non-pregnancy, breeding, and gestation periods), combined with early supplementary feeding strategies for lambs (initiated at 10 days of age), significantly improved ewe reproductive efficiency (average lambing rate increased by 45.11%) and enhanced lamb growth performance. However, the relatively slower weight gain in Group II during later stages suggests the need to optimize energy substance ratios in supplementary feeding formulas and individual adaptability regulation. This study provides a replicable nutritional management protocol for intensive mutton sheep farming, offering significant practical value for improving breeding economic efficiency.
