Goat Nutrition: Why Grass Isn’t Enough

In this lesson from the Complete Goat Guide Course, Mark Warkey debunks the common misconception that goats can thrive solely on pasture grass. Learn why goats are browsers, not grazers, and how to optimize their diet for health and productivity.

 

Key Takeaways

1. Understanding Goats as Browsers

• Goats naturally prefer to browse, meaning they eat leaves, shrubs, and a variety of plants rather than grass.
• Traditional pasture grass isn’t suitable as a primary food source for goats.

2. What Is Goat Forage?

Goat-appropriate forage includes:

• Leafy, sticky plants: With flowers and a variety of textures.
• Shrubs and bushes: Blackberries, wildflowers, and other woody plants.
• Tree leaves: A favorite snack for goats.

Example:

• In Marc’s setup, his creek bottom and mountain areas are rich in blackberries, shrubs, and other diverse species—ideal for goat browsing.

3. Feeding Goats in Different Scenarios

• If forage isn’t available:
  • Dry lot goats and provide hay.
• Type of hay matters:
  • Alfalfa: High in calcium, ideal for dairy goats or pregnant/lactating does.
  • Grass hay: Better for wethers (castrated males) due to its balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio.
  • Mixed hay: A combination of alfalfa and grass hay is great for maintenance when goats aren’t breeding or lactating.

4. Avoiding Common Pitfalls

One of the biggest mistakes new goat owners make is assuming goats can thrive on their lawn or basic pasture grass. Without the right forage or supplemental feeding, goats won’t reach their full health potential.

Marc’s Pro Tip:

If you want your goats to graze on your land, plant a goat-appropriate forage mix rather than standard pasture grass. These mixes are specially designed to provide the nutrition goats need to thrive.

For more resources and feed recommendations, visit packgoats.com. With the right setup, your goats will stay healthy and happy!