Feeding goats the right amount of pellets is important for their health. Generally, adult goats should be fed about 1.5% to 2% of their body weight in pellets daily. For instance, a 100-pound goat would require about 1.5 to 2 pounds of pellets daily. The exact amount can vary based on the goat’s age, activity level, and the nutritional value of the pellets. Always ensure they have access to clean water and roughage like hay to maintain a balanced diet.
Best Pellets to Feed Goats
Alfalfa Pellets
Alfalfa pellets are a popular choice for goats due to their high protein content, which is essential for growth, milk production, and overall health. These pellets are rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly calcium, making them an excellent choice for pregnant or lactating does. However, they should be fed moderately to avoid bloating or urinary calculi, especially in bucks and wethers.
Timothy Grass Pellets
Timothy grass pellets are lower in protein and calcium than alfalfa, making them a good choice for maintaining adult goats who are not pregnant or lactating. These pellets are high in fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and can help prevent obesity. They’re also good for goats sensitive to the richer alfalfa pellets.
Complete Goat Feed Pellets
These are specially formulated to provide a balanced diet for goats, containing the right mix of vitamins, minerals, protein, and energy. They are ideal for ensuring that goats receive all necessary nutrients, particularly when high-quality forage is unavailable. Complete feed pellets are suitable for all life stages, but it’s important to choose a formula specific to your goats’ needs (e.g., lactating does, kids).
Soybean Meal-Based Pellets
For goats that require extra protein, such as growing kids or high-producing dairy goats, soybean meal-based pellets can be a good supplement. These pellets are high in protein and essential amino acids, crucial for muscle development and milk production. However, they should be used as a supplement to a balanced diet, as overfeeding protein can lead to health issues.
Other Things to Feed Goats
- Fresh Vegetables (Carrots, Pumpkin, Squash)
- Tree Branches (Willow, Maple, Fir)
- Fresh Fruits (Apples, Pears, Bananas)
- Grains (Corn, Barley, Oats)
- Chaffhaye
- Browsing Pasture (Various Grasses and Weeds)
- Mineral Supplements
- Water (Clean, Fresh Water)
- Kitchen Scraps (in moderation)
- Beet Pulp
Frequently Asked Questions
How much grain to feed a goat?
Adult goats generally require about 0.5% to 1% of their body weight in grain daily. For a 100-pound goat, this equates to 0.5 to 1 pound of grain per day. Adjust the amount based on the goat’s age, health, and production status, ensuring not to overfeed to avoid digestive issues.
How much pellets to feed a baby goat?
Baby goats (kids) can start with a small amount of pellets, about 1/4 cup per day, once they begin to nibble at around 2 weeks old. Gradually increase the amount to about 1% of their body weight as they grow, along with their mother’s milk or milk replacer and hay.
How much pellets to feed senior goats?
Senior goats, less active and with slower metabolisms, should be fed about 1% to 1.5% of their body weight in pellets daily. A senior goat weighing 100 pounds means about 1 to 1.5 pounds of pellets, adjusted for their specific health needs and condition.
How much pellets to feed pregnant or lactating goats?
Pregnant and lactating goats have higher nutritional needs. They should receive about 1.5% to 2% of their body weight in pellets daily. For a 100-pound goat, this means 1.5 to 2 pounds of pellets per day, providing enough energy and nutrients for both the doe and her developing or nursing kids.