HOW TO FEED AND MIX YOUR GOAT FEED

Goats are herbivores, and their diet can vary depending on their age, size, and purpose (e.g., dairy, meat, or fiber). Here’s a general idea of what to feed goats:

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1. Hay

Quality Hay: Goats need good-quality hay as the main part of their diet, especially in the winter months when fresh pasture isn’t available. Timothy hay, alfalfa, or mixed grasses work well.
- Adult goats should generally eat grass hay, like timothy.
- Kids and pregnant goats may need more protein-rich hay, like alfalfa.

2. Fresh Grass and Pasture

Goats love to graze on fresh grass, herbs, and plants. If you have access to a clean pasture, they can graze freely. They particularly enjoy weeds, shrubs, and certain types of plants that they wouldn’t normally get from hay.

3. Grains

Grain-based feed: You can supplement their diet with a small amount of grain (like oats or goat pellets), especially for lactating or pregnant goats.
However, too much grain can lead to health issues like bloat or obesity, so feed grain in moderation.

4. Fresh Vegetables and Fruits

Goats enjoy a variety of fresh produce as treats. Some options include:
- Carrots, apples, bananas, and pears.
- Leafy greens like spinach or lettuce.
Always avoid feeding them anything that’s toxic to goats, like avocado, onions, and potatoes.

5. Mineral Supplements

Free-choice minerals: Goats need access to minerals, especially salt and calcium, to ensure they stay healthy. You can provide loose minerals or mineral blocks designed for goats.

6. Water

Fresh, clean water is essential at all times. Goats drink a lot of water, so make sure they always have access to it.

7. Treats (In Moderation)

Goats love treats, but they should only be given in moderation. Some options include small amounts of grains, herbs, and certain fruits.

Foods to Avoid:

Chocolate, coffee, or caffeine (toxic to goats)
Toxic plants like oleander, yew, or azalea.
Garlic and onions, as they can harm goats.

Tips For Feeding Your Goats

Feeding your goats properly is key to keeping them healthy and productive. Here are some practical tips to ensure they get the right nutrition:

1. Provide Fresh, Clean Water Daily

Goats drink a lot of water, especially after grazing. Make sure they have access to fresh, clean water at all times. It’s important to keep water containers clean to avoid any contamination.

2. Offer Good-Quality Hay

Hay should be the primary component of a goat’s diet. Choose high-quality hay that is free from mold and dust.
Grass hay (like timothy or orchard grass) is ideal for adult goats.
For younger goats or lactating does, you may want to supplement with alfalfa hay due to its higher protein content.

3. Grazing is Important

If you have access to pasture, allow your goats to graze for as long as possible. Goats naturally browse, meaning they eat a variety of plants, including grasses, leaves, shrubs, and even some weeds.
Rotating pastures can help prevent overgrazing and give grass a chance to regrow.

4. Control Grain Intake

While goats can eat grains (like oats, barley, or specially formulated goat pellets), too much grain can lead to obesity, bloat, or digestive issues.
Grain should be reserved for growing kids, pregnant or lactating females, or goats with higher nutritional needs. Always follow feeding recommendations on the feed bag or consult a vet for specific advice.

5. Monitor Treats and Snacks

Goats love treats, but too many can upset their digestion or cause health issues. Limit sugary snacks, and avoid feeding them harmful foods like chocolate, onions, or avocados.
Healthy treats like carrots, apples, and bananas are great in moderation.

6. Offer Free-Choice Minerals

Goats need access to minerals like salt, calcium, and phosphorus to stay healthy.
You can provide a mineral block or loose minerals specifically formulated for goats. Make sure they have constant access to it, especially if they are lactating or pregnant.

7. Watch for Overeating

Goats have a tendency to eat more than they need, which can lead to overeating and health issues like bloating or obesity. Watch their body condition and adjust their diet as necessary.
Keep an eye on them when new food is introduced to ensure they don’t gorge.

8. Ensure Proper Feeding Schedule

Stick to a consistent feeding schedule, offering food at the same times each day. This will help regulate their digestion and avoid irregular eating habits.
If feeding grain, divide it into two smaller meals to prevent overeating.

9. Introduce New Foods Gradually

If you’re introducing a new food to your goats’ diet (like a new type of hay or grain), do so gradually. Sudden changes can upset their digestive systems.
Introduce treats in small amounts first to see how they react and avoid any digestive upset.

10. Observe Their Health

Keep a close eye on their behavior and overall health. If a goat is refusing to eat or seems lethargic, it could be a sign of illness.
Regularly check for signs of bloating, diarrhea, or poor coat condition, which could indicate dietary imbalances or health issues.

11. Avoid Toxic Plants

Make sure your pasture or grazing area is free from toxic plants, as goats will often nibble on things they shouldn’t.
Common plants that are toxic to goats include yew, oleander, lilies, and azaleas.

MIXING YOUR GOAT FEED

Mixing your own goat feed can be a great way to customize their diet based on your goats’ needs, whether they’re growing kids, lactating does, or adult goats. Here’s a basic guide for making your own mixed goat feed:

Ingredients for Homemade Goat Feed Mix:

You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have access to and what your goats need. Generally, the mixture will include:

Hay (Grain-Free Option)
- Grass hay (like timothy, orchard, or meadow hay) for adult goats.
- Alfalfa hay for younger goats or lactating does, as it’s higher in protein and calcium.
- You can mix different types of hay together to give variety and balance.
Grains
- Oats: Whole or rolled oats are commonly used in goat feed and are easy to digest.
- Barley: A great source of energy for goats.
- Corn: Can be included in moderation for extra energy (but should be balanced with fiber).
Protein Sources
- Soybean meal or canola meal: Excellent protein sources for growing goats or lactating does.
- Alfalfa meal: If you’re not feeding whole alfalfa hay, you can use alfalfa meal as an alternative protein source.
Fiber
- Beet pulp: A good source of fiber and energy, often used to help regulate digestion.
- Citrus pulp: Another fiber-rich option that can be included, but use in moderation.
Minerals
- Salt: Provide free-choice salt or add it to the mix. Goats need salt, and it’s essential for good health.
- Calcium and Phosphorus: Make sure you have the correct balance of calcium to phosphorus. Use a calcium supplement if you need to balance the mix.
- Trace minerals: Goat mineral mix (or premade mineral supplement) for vitamins and essential minerals like copper, zinc, and selenium.
Vitamins
- Dicalcium phosphate or vitamin/mineral premixes: These ensure your goats are getting the right vitamins, especially if they’re lacking in natural forage or pasture.
Other Supplements (Optional)
- Probiotics: Can help support digestive health, especially in goats who are on grain-heavy diets.
- Herbs: Dandelion, thyme, and other goat-friendly herbs can be added for extra nutrients and flavor.

Basic Goat Feed Mix Recipe

Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

For Adult Goats (Grass Hay-based):

50% Grass hay (timothy, meadow, or orchard hay)
30% Oats (rolled or whole)
10% Soybean meal or Alfalfa meal (for protein)
5% Beet pulp or Citrus pulp
5% Trace mineral salt and calcium/phosphorus supplement (adjust to their needs)

For Growing Kids or Lactating Does:

30% Alfalfa hay
30% Oats
20% Soybean meal
10% Alfalfa meal
10% Trace mineral mix with salt

Mixing Instructions:

Weigh Ingredients: Measure each ingredient based on the percentage amounts in the recipe.
Mix Thoroughly: In a large container, mix all ingredients evenly.
Store Properly: Store your homemade goat feed in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from becoming moldy or attracting pests.
Free-Choice Hay: Along with the mixed feed, ensure your goats have access to good-quality hay at all times.

Adjusting the Mix:

If you’re feeding goats that are older, pregnant, or lactating, they may need more protein, calcium, and energy, so you can tweak the mix by adding more alfalfa or protein sources.
You can also add a bit of ground flaxseed or canola oil for a boost of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for coat health.

Important Tips:

Monitor Weight and Health: Keep an eye on your goats’ weight and body condition to make sure they are getting the right balance of nutrients.
Introduce New Feeds Gradually: Goats can be sensitive to diet changes, so make sure to introduce new feed gradually to avoid digestive upset.
Ensure Fresh Water: Always have fresh water available to help with digestion and hydration, especially if you’re feeding grain-heavy mixes.

Conclusion:

By mixing your own goat feed, you can ensure that your goats are getting the right nutrients for their specific needs while keeping costs lower than buying pre-made feed.

By keeping their diet balanced with hay, fresh greens, limited grains, and appropriate treats, your goats will stay healthy and happy!