Pygmy goats are generally reared as pets, instead of for meat and milk. They appear to have a better temperament than the larger goats and come in a variety of colors such as caramel, grey agouti (agouti is light & dark colors in hair), brown agouti, black agouti and solid black. In order to provide the best possible care for this pet this would involve healthy diet, good hygiene and shelter. The following will offer some suggestions for your caring for and the feeding of pygmy goats.
Feeding
These animals will require a daily diet which include food rich in protein such as fresh alfalfa, clover hay and soybean meal. They also require carbohydrates such as rolled and whole grains. The necessary vitamins and minerals can be obtained from corn, oats, sweet feed and goat ration. You can get a trough for feeding purpose. It’s also advisable to keep a salt or mineral block on hand at all times.
In addition, to those food items you can let them feed on forages such as browse, forbs and grass which proves to be beneficial for their health and well being. You can feed them on grass such as orchard, blue grass and fescue. Clover, lettuce and dandelions are some of the forbs which will be ideal for their well being.
Vitamin D and A will be two necessary supplements which are vital to pygmy goats. They can get Vitamin A from foods such as yellow corn, green hay or green pasture.
Tips for caring for your pet pigmy goat
Providing sufficient fresh water that is clean is a must when taking care of this pet. If you can it is best to supply warm water during the colder months and cool water during warmer months, because this will encourage them to drink a good amount. Ensure that the water is changed on a regular basis, because if it isn’t it could affect their health.
Providing a suitable enclosure will be an essential part of caring for your pet. You are required to provide fencing which is constructed high enough in order to keep away animals such as dogs who can wander close to your pet goat and to also keep your pet away from them. In addition, it should large enough for them to move around freely.
Many times this animal will be bothered by foot rot, lameness or perhaps splayed toes if the hooves are left untrimmed. A good practice would be to trim the hoof every month if you want to help them to maintain healthy feet. In addition, you should practice worming a minimum of three or four times every year.
Make sure you learn all you can about the care and feeding of your pet pygmy goat and their likes and dislikes along with their behavioral patterns. Keeping them happy and healthy means you’ll have a fun loving and loyal friend for many years to come.
