Basic Goat Care & Links

Basic Goat Care

A Thoughtful Approach

There’s no single “right” way to raise goats—only what works best for you, your herd, and your environment. The most important thing you can do is educate yourself, ask questions, and stay curious.

We highly recommend connecting with a local farm or mentor in your area. Many experienced goat keepers are happy to share knowledge, especially if you’re willing to lend a hand or trade time for guidance. Local insight can make all the difference.

Goats are hardy and resilient animals, but thoughtful care is essential to keep them truly thriving.

Shelter

Goats need a dry, draft-free shelter to protect them from rain, wind, and snow—while still allowing for proper ventilation. Overly enclosed spaces can lead to respiratory and other health issues.

• Provide a secure shelter for nighttime to protect from predators

• Offer a run-in area for daytime protection from weather

• Encourage outdoor time year-round—fresh air is important, even in winter

Hay & Forage

Goats are browsers, not grazers. They naturally prefer woody plants, shrubs, and varied vegetation over grass.

• Provide free-choice, high-quality hay (2nd or 3rd cut is ideal) or pasture

• Always use a feeder—goats typically won’t eat hay that’s been on the ground

• Check your property for toxic plants before allowing browsing

• Introduce lush vegetation slowly and never on an empty stomach

Goats can be excellent natural weeders, but they still require a balanced diet.

Water

Fresh, clean water is essential for good health.

• Provide water at all times

• Check frequently—goats are picky and will avoid dirty water

• Use heated buckets in winter to prevent freezing

Feed

In addition to hay and forage, we supplement our goats’ diet with grain and other nutrients.

• We feed a high-quality goat grain blend (such as whole oats, barley, and corn)

• Add black oil sunflower seeds as a top dressing

• Offer alfalfa (bale or pellets) to does when available

• Use lespedeza pellets for additional support

Important: Always introduce any feed changes gradually to avoid upsetting the rumen.

Minerals & Supplements

Free-choice loose minerals are essential for filling nutritional gaps.

• Use loose minerals specifically formulated for goats (not blocks)

• Offer minerals in separate containers for free-choice access

• Kelp can be added as an additional supplement

We also use copper boluses and selenium (gel or injection) as needed due to deficiencies in our area.
⚠️ Important: Both copper and selenium can be toxic in excess—always consult a local veterinarian or experienced mentor before supplementing.

Baking Soda

If feeding grain, goats should have free-choice baking soda available.

• Helps balance rumen pH

• Can aid in preventing bloat

• Goats will consume it only when needed

Keep it in a separate container away from minerals.

Ammonium Chloride

For male goats (bucks and wethers), ammonium chloride is important when feeding grain.

• Helps prevent urinary calculi, a potentially serious condition

• Often included in commercial goat feeds

• Can also be added separately if needed

Hoof Care

Regular hoof trimming is essential for overall health and mobility.

• Trim hooves every 1–3 months, depending on conditions

• Check frequently for signs of rot or uneven growth

• Provide natural surfaces (like rocks) to help wear hooves down

Neglected hooves can lead to serious and painful issues, so consistency is key.

Deworming & Parasite Management

We follow a test-and-treat approach rather than routine deworming.

• Submit fecal samples every 4–6 months

• Treat only when necessary, based on results

• Test for both worms and coccidia

Overuse or improper dosing of dewormers can lead to resistance and disrupt the goat’s digestive system. Not all dewormers treat all parasites, and standard wormers do not treat coccidia (which requires a different medication).

We also incorporate lespedeza pellets as part of our coccidia prevention strategy, especially for kids.

Final Thoughts

Every herd is different. Climate, soil, forage, and management styles all play a role in what works best. What’s effective for one farm may not be ideal for another.

Stay observant, keep learning, and don’t hesitate to reach out to local farmers, mentors, or veterinarians for guidance.

Healthy goats start with informed, attentive care—and the willingness to adapt along the way.​