Pygmy goat people...I need help

[Thomas423]

Here's a thread I started on BackYardHerds:

http://www.backyardherds.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=1580

Post #7 has some quotes (and links) as to the copper issue.

From what I am figuring out pygmy goats are subject to copper toxidity but copper deficiency is also a potential problem. Certain minerials inhibit or aid the absorption of copper. It can build up in their livers showing no problems until it's too late. ??? I'm so confused.....I thought that goats were easy. They can/will eat anything. Not!! Mine are the fussiest eaters. LOL But they are healthy, happy and huggable and I plan on keeping them that way

Please add any info or opinions. I really need to figure this out. You can post on BYH or here. (You have to be a member of BYH to post there but this would be a great time to sign up if you haven't already

)

Thanks in advance.

 

[ksalvagno]

Depending on how much you want to look into this or spend money, you could always have a vet come out and do bloodwork on them and see where all their levels are. Bloodwork would be the only way to truly find out if they have too much or too little copper.

 

[ohiofarmgirl]

i think part of the confusion also is - it depends on where you live - different places have different minerals in the soil

are you giving them bagged food? or just grazing?

personally i've never stressed about it - the milkers get bagged food + good hay and the rest have to get out there and free range. you can always call your local extension office and see what they say.

one thing that i have learned tho - with goats (unlike chickens) one question gives you a million different answers. everyone has a different level of how much they hip and hop around about what the do/not feed... you just need to find what works for you.

i would call someone locally who raises/breeds them... and do what they do.

clear as mud?

 

[helmstead]

Quote:
A blood test will not tell you about copper levels, you have to have a liver biopsy done.