Vaccination Schedule for Goats and Sheep
Published on: 5/15/2025Key Takeaways
- Vaccinating sheep and goats helps protect against common diseases such as Clostridium perfringens types C and D and tetanus (CD&T), which can cause sudden illness and death in lambs and kids.
- Lambs and kids should typically receive their first CD&T vaccine by about 8 weeks of age, followed by a booster four weeks later to ensure proper immunity.
- Additional vaccines, such as those protecting against Mannheimia haemolytica (pasteurella), may be given around 8-12 weeks of age with a later booster depending on herd risk.
- Adult ewes, rams, does, and bucks should receive annual booster vaccinations, ideally 2-4 weeks before lambing or kidding to pass protective antibodies to newborns through colostrum.
- Depending on exposure risks, producers may also consider optional vaccines for diseases like caseous lymphadenitis, soremouth, and reproductive infections to support overall flock and herd health.
Vaccination is an important part of keeping sheep and goats healthy. A consistent vaccination program helps protect animals from common diseases that can cause illness, production losses, or sudden death. While each operation may have slightly different needs, most sheep and goat vaccination programs follow a similar timeline based on the animal's age and stage of production. Working with your veterinarian can help determine the best vaccination plan for your flock or herd.
The table below summarizes the typical vaccination schedule used for sheep and goats.
| Age or Stage | Vaccine | Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
2-4 weeks before lambing/kidding |
CD&T booster for dam | Helps antibodies pass through colostrum |
| 6-8 weeks | CD&T | First dose protecting against overeating disease and tetanus |
| 6-8 weeks | Respiratory Vaccine | Protection against Mannheimia haemolytica |
| 8-12 weeks | CD&T booster | Strengthens immunity |
| 8-12 weeks | Respiratory booster | Given if first respiratory vaccine was administered |
| Weaning | Coccidiosis prevention | May include a coccidiostat under veterinary guidance |
| Annually | CD&T booster | Maintain immunity in adult animals |
What is the CD&T Vaccine for Sheep and Goats?
One of the most common vaccines used in sheep and goats is the CD&T vaccine. This vaccine protects against three serious diseases:
- Clostridium perfringens type C
- Clostridium perfringens type D
- Tetanus
Clostridium perfringens type C and D are associated with enterotoxemia, often called overeating disease. This condition can develop quickly and may cause sudden illness or death, especially in young animals.
Example CD&T vaccines include:
- Bovilis Vision CD-T with Spur Cattle, Sheep and Goat Vaccine
- Essential 3+T (CD&T) Cattle, Sheep, Goat and Swine Vaccine
- Bar-Vac CD/T Cattle, Sheep and Goat Vaccine
Tetanus is another serious risk for sheep and goats. It can occur when bacteria enter the body through wounds, including procedures such as castration or tail docking.
Because these diseases can progress rapidly and are often fatal, CD&T vaccination is considered a core vaccine for most sheep and goat operations.
Vaccinating Lambs and Kids
Young animals typically begin their vaccination program between 6 and 8 weeks of age.
Some producers vaccinate young animals for respiratory disease caused by Mannheimia haemolytica, especially in operations where pneumonia has been a concern. A booster vaccination is typically given 3-4 weeks after the first dose to strengthen immunity.
Vaccination for Breeding Ewes and Does
Adult animals require annual booster vaccinations to maintain protection. Breeding animals are commonly vaccinated 2-4 weeks before lambing or kidding. This timing is important because it allows antibodies to pass from the dam to the newborn through colostrum. High-quality colostrum is critical for lambs and kids since they are born without significant immune protection. When newborn animals nurse soon after birth, they receive antibodies that help protect them during the first weeks of life.
Additional Vaccines to Consider
Some vaccines are used only when specific diseases are present in a flock or herd. Producers may consider these vaccines depending on disease history and veterinary guidance.
Caseous Lymphadenitis (CL)
Vaccination may help reduce the severity of infection in herds where CL is already present.
Contagious Ecthyma (Soremouth)
This vaccine may be used in flocks with a known history of soremouth to help reduce clinical signs.
Reproductive Disease Vaccines
Breeding animals may also be vaccinated against reproductive diseases caused by:
Your veterinarian can help determine if these vaccines are necessary.
Following a consistent health program helps reduce disease risk and supports healthier sheep and goats throughout the year.
Whether for horse, livestock, or pet, Valley Vet Supply is your one-stop shop for trusted care. Explore more of our goat & sheep category at ValleyVet.com
