Grapes are extremely healthy, not just for humans, but also for sheep! As a matter of fact, giving them a handful of grapes every day can help them stay healthier than ever.
Why? This fruit is loaded with vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that can strengthen the body and also help prevent many health problems in the future.
Also, adding grapes to your sheep’s diet is a great idea if you are looking to improve the quality of wool they produce.
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Are Grapes Good For Sheep?
They offer a variety of health benefits that can help keep your sheep happy and healthy. For example, grapes are:
- Low in fat and calories
- Rich in vitamins A, B, C and K
- Chock full of potassium, phosphorus and calcium.
Grapes are extremely high in potassium which is very good for the heart. Sheep that have heart problems or palpitations will benefit from the high levels of potassium present in grapes for it helps to regulate their heart beat.
Grapes are also high in folic acid and Vitamin C. These two elements also help with the heart. They prevent blood clots and lower cholesterol levels, both of which can cause a heart attack. Grapes also have some magnesium in them, which is good for reducing blood pressure and stress. Magnesium is also known to improve the immune system. Grapes also contain Vitamin B, which helps your sheep’s red blood cells work correctly.
Besides all these vital elements for the heart, grapes are an excellent source of antioxidants that can prevent free radical damage in the body causing premature aging. Also, grapes are a good source of fiber and pectin which aids the digestive system and helps to regulate blood sugar.
Vitamin K is another great ingredient found in Grapes, especially if your sheep are always low on healthy bacteria in their rumen. Vitamin K will help promote this bacteria growth and thus improve the health of your sheep’s digestive system.
Can Sheep Eat Grape Leaves?
Sheep can eat Grape Leaves, they contain some of the nutrients and minerals as Grapes. Their leaves are small, tender and mild in flavor, making them a great snack for your sheep.
Sheep are herbivores and they need to get their vitamins and minerals from other sources than the grass on the pasture, which are often grown with fertilizers that provide those nutrients. Grape Leaves have many other health benefits to offer your sheep, and besides eating them directly, you can also use them as a fodder or feed supplement.
Healthy Fruits For Sheep
Fruits are an integral part of the diet of sheep as they are fulfilling and packed with vitamins and minerals needed by sheep.
Some of the most nutritious are:
Bananas: are high in potassium, an essential mineral, and low in calories. Adding these to your sheep’s diet will keep them in good shape.
Apples: are very healthy for sheep as they are a food high in fiber and low in calories. Apple tree leaves have many health benefits for the cattle including prevention of diseases and maintenance of their body weight.
Watermelon: are another great addition to your sheep’s diet. They are high in Vitamin C and potassium, a mineral essential for muscle and bone development. Adding watermelon to their diet will also keep them hydrated!
Blueberries: are also rich in Vitamin C and are bursting with antioxidants. Blueberries are rich in fiber therefore they can help regulate digestion, providing prolonged relief from indigestion.
Cherries: are yet another delicious fruit for your sheep’s diet which includes free radical-fighting antioxidants as well as potassium, iron and Vitamin C.
