Proper care for goats

Taking proper care of goats is a big responsibility. Goats are a ruminant animal meaning that they digest roughage by chewing, partially digesting, reguritating and then chewing some more. People will refer to goats that they are chewing their cud which means they are chewing roughage that has already been swallowed once. Goats are browsers and enjoy a variety of shrubs, woody plants, forages, and hay. Sometimes roughages are not enough to satisfy a goats appetite and they need to be supplemented with pelletized or course grain feed. Goats do well in an adequate sized pasture with plenty of grasses and plants to graze on. Some plants are posionous to goats such as azaleas, hemlock, and wild cherr. Pasture for goats should be checked for poisonous plants to ensure your goats safety. Goats need plenty of fresh water daily during summer and winter months. They are very picky about their drinking water and they will not drink dirty water. Goats do not do well by themselves. They need to have other goats to interact with on a daily basis. Goats should have adequate shelter all year long. They hate rain and mud and should have shelter from the elements. They need at least a three sided barn to get in to protect them from rain, snow, or strong winds. Goat barns need to be well ventulated but still keep them out of the weather and cold drafts. Some people even build cabinets off the ground for the goats to get in and sleep. Goats love a warm cozy place to rest. Goats love to climb and play and it is very ideal to have some sort of rock pile where they are able to play safely.

In tact male goats are called bucks. Casturated males are called whethers. Female goats are does and baby or young goats are called kids. Goats are naturally healthy animals and rarely get sick. They do need yearly vaccinations and routine de worming to ensure a healthy and proper care of goats. Ask your local liscened veternarian about a yearly shot scheldule and a de worming scheldule. You will also need to treat your goats for flying insects in the summer time. Goats are very sensitive to flying insects and is good to keep fly spray handy and fly traps through out the barn that your goats stay in.

 
Caring for goats can be very rewarding and fun. These guidlines will ensure your goats to be happy and healthy.