Nigerian Dwarf Goat Feed Question

[ThornyRidge]

the baking soda is good for all free choice.. helps regulate rumen acidity.. prevention of upset tummies.. I leave it out for all bucks, does, kids, wethers, etc.. they will occasionally lick it.. and usually don't take much. I keep mine in the proximity of their minerals and water buckets. As far as advice for feeding nigies.. you really have to look at all the millions of different styles/advice each and everyone has and then make up what works for you. As long as you don't over do it you should be fine.. and regardless of what the goats think the hay is the best thing for them! Grain - a little goes a long way unless you need to beef someone up/someone is growing or preggers or milking.. I give a small amount of grain/sweetfeed formulated for goats in my area along with some calf manna and boss each night to all my crew.. never had problems with urinary stones etc.. and my goats are healthy weights. Stick to good legume hay or mixed hay and goat minerals and you will be good.. throw in some grain for spice.

 

[Hapee Chicks]

What is Boss ?

 

[ShannonR]

Black oil sunflower seed, to the question above.

My goats get less pelleted or bagged feeds and grains, more alfalfa and pasture and,(their favorite) leaves and brush. I cut down bushes for the goats to eat and put it in their pens.

During late pegnancy and lactation I give small amounts of sweet cob, maybe 2 cups max while milking. Once a day for my does. I like to cut a couple of Tums into quarters and add them to the cob for extra calcium during late pregnancy and lactation, helps keep their calcium content up and hopefully prevents milk fever.

Free choice mineral and baking soda, always.