Goat Question

[emalin]

I inherited two Nubian does when I bought a small farm. They had a salt lick but not complete loose minerals. I set up free choice minerals up for them and now both, but one in particular, are gorging on it. I took it away because it didn’t seem healthy. Then started rationing it. Im using MannaPro—noting especially tasty in there.

I’ve heard that goats regulate themselves, but IDK. Am I right I’m assuming that as they resolve deficiencies, I can put the free choice feeder back up & they won’t eat themselves to death?

Both are fairly healthy goats. The one that really goes crazy for minerals has a rough coat & is smaller, not as pretty and well formed. You wouldn’t look at her and think she was sickly though.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

They should only consume what they need. If they are deficient they may eat too much initially. I generally see more mineral consumption when mine are on hay, and less on pasture.

I also provide free choice baking soda here for digestive health. It will satisfy some of the salt cravings too.

I think what you are doing is probably best by limiting the minerals for a bit. You could also put out a cattle mineral block which they can lick at all day and not get as much. We provide both, a loose goat mineral and a cattle block. The block can be a problem if the goats are using their teeth on it. It also doesn't contain copper, so they shouldn't be the only mineral source.

 

[cassie]

I am in a minority here. I used to put out an iodized salt lick and nothing else. If it were me, I would take a fecal sample and have it tested for parasites. If she is skinny and not responding to good feed I would definitely have a blood sample taken and have her checked for Johnes.

 

[chickens really]

Join Backyard Herds. Sister site of BYC. Lots of knowledgeable people to help you with your goats.