- Mar 19, 2009
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By the time a kidding kit is needed, it will be very clear she is pregnant. The other things you mentioned are true whether the doeling is pregnant or not. I fed all my goats alfalfa because that is what I had available and personally I think it is the best feed for them. However, I have been in parts of the country where the goats were fed a good grass hay because that is what was available and alfalfa just wasn't. These breeders also fed a grain ration and a mineral mix that was far different than what I used. Alfalfa is high in calcium and low in phosphorous while grass hays are high in phosphorous and low in calcium. Grass hays are also lower in protein than alfalfa but really good grass hays put up right can have a protein level that rivals alfalfa. You have to take that in consideration when choosing a grain mix and a mineral mix. My point was that it is going to be very obvious very soon whether this doeling is pregnant or not and any adjustments to her management can be made at that time. Meanwhile, she needs to be wormed if necessary and receive any vaccinations. Those things are important both in pregnant and non pregnant stock.@cassie , yes she either is or isn't pregnant, and nothing can be done, but it is important to know whether or not she is for several reasons:
Feeding - pregnant does should get alfalfa (at least near to kidding) and grain
Health - pregnant does should be dewormed and vaccinated if the owner so chooses
Housing - a dry, secure, safe, and warm place should be made ready for a kidding. Fencing should be able to keep kids from escaping.
Preparation - a kidding kit should be collected and a vet should be on speed dial
etc etc etc