Feeding and Nutrition of Baby Goats

Proper feeding and nutrition are critical to raising healthy baby goats, whether you choose to dam-raise or bottle-feed. This lesson outlines the essential practices and feeding schedules for bottle-fed baby goats and provides guidelines for transitioning to post-weaning nutrition.

Key Points:

1. Dam-Raising vs. Bottle-Feeding:
   • Dam-Raising: Minimal intervention required for the first 4–5 months until weaning.
   • Bottle-Feeding: Requires a structured feeding schedule and careful attention to nutritional needs.
2. Bottle-Feeding Schedule:
   • First Month: 20 ounces of whole cow’s milk, three times daily.
   • Second Month: 20 ounces, twice daily.
   • Third Month: 20 ounces, once daily.
   • Use whole cow’s milk from the grocery store to avoid potential disease transmission and complications from powdered milk replacers.
3. Supplemental Feeding:
   • Free-Choice Access:
     • Grass hay: Available at all times to encourage healthy digestion.
     • Loose minerals: Essential for growth and overall health.
     • Baking soda: Helps baby goats self-medicate for acidosis, similar to a natural antacid, and should be removed after weaning.
   • Water: Always provide fresh water, but ensure safety by elevating buckets to prevent drowning.
4. Weaning and Post-Weaning Nutrition:
   • After weaning, focus on free-choice grass hay and loose minerals.
   • Avoid feeding straight alfalfa to wethers or bucklings due to potential phosphorus and calcium imbalances, which can lead to health issues like urinary calculi.
   • Opt for high-quality grass hay or horse hay, preferably with a mix of weeds and clover for added variety and nutrition.
5. General Feeding Tips:
   • Grass hay is the safest and most versatile option for goats.
   • Aim for high-quality hay with a balanced protein content; hay testing can ensure optimal nutritional value.
   • Avoid overly clean, monoculture hay; diverse hay types support better health.

Summary

Feeding and raising baby goats becomes straightforward when you follow a proven formula. Whether dam-raising or bottle-feeding, ensuring access to proper nutrition and understanding the needs of growing goats are key to their health and development. Stick to the outlined schedule and dietary recommendations for strong, thriving kids.