Goats

When raising goats, issues can arise that you must be prepared for. For example, when a female goat reaches the end of her pregnancy, she can develop a life-threatening condition that can adversely…

While goats are known for eating almost any material, hay is one of the most nutrient-rich food you can provide them. Many feeders don’t protect the hay from insect infestations, though. The…

Although the popular image of goats is that they will eat anything, you have to be careful when choosing food for them. Goats tend to prefer brush to grass, feeding on trees rather than the grass on…

Goats often experience flaky, peeling horns. This condition is not normally due to a serious underlying medical condition, but it can be unnerving for goat owners. Left untreated, peeling horns can…

"Three Billy Goats Gruff" is a classic story that centers around three billy goats who set off to find green grass and encounter a troll living under a bridge. The story makes an interesting…

The median annual salary for a goat herder in 2011 is $24,040, according to the My Majors career and education website. The publication also states that a typical hourly pay rate would be about…

Tanned goatskin leather is used to create several different products, including work and gardening gloves. The leather is durable enough to withstand the rigors of labor-intensive projects or an…

Goats are low-maintenance animals that provide several benefits to owners. Milk from goats is rich and provides similar nutrients to that of human milk. Goats also keep grass short, preventing grass…

Goats are prone to contracting worm parasites because their stomachs provide a conducive environment for the worms to survive and thrive in. As such, it is important for goats to be kept on a regular…

Goats and cats are animals that commonly share the same barnyard and on many occasions become companions to each other. However, there are some illnesses these creatures can pass back and forth as…

Goat skin is a thin type of leather that can be hung on the wall as tapestry, thrown over the sofa or used as a rug. It can be made soft and delicate, or goat skin can be hardened to look and feel…

Grooming your goat is essential whether you rear it as a farm animal for its milk or meat, to sell or to show. You can spot an unhealthy goat by looking at its coat which tends to be dull and…

Metropolises like Minneapolis/St. Paul, Seattle and Portland allow urban residents to keep goats as pets. Many owners find goats to be interesting, entertaining and rewarding pets. Aside from the…

The energetic and showy goat's beard perennial (Aruncus dioicus) can fill in a sunny or partially sunny growing location with vibrant foliage and white, fuzzy blossoms. This dense flowering plant may…

Goats are active, curious animals that are fairly easy to maintain. Like all animals, goats have some basic needs that must be met to ensure their health and happiness. But they have few special needs…

Goats belong to a class of herbivores, or plant-eating animals, called the ruminants. Ruminants have a complex digestive system containing multiple stomachs, each of which plays a different role in…

The bezoar is a type of wild goat native to the Greek isles and numerous Middle Eastern countries, including Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey. It's one of the species of goats from which…

"Poptropica" is an online gaming site for kids and teens. On "Poptropica," players travel to different islands, where they solve puzzles and complete missions. On Cryptids Island, you encounter…

In Puerto Rico, in the Cryptids Island section of "Poptropica," you learn that the elusive Chupacabra supposedly attacks goats in groups and likes spotted goats more than solid colored ones. To prove…

Goat is quickly becoming a popular meat in the United States. According to Alliance Nutrition, the demand for goat meat has been on the rise and the supply can't meet the demand. Raising goats for…

There's an old saying that goes, "A fence that won't hold water won't hold a goat." While goats are often difficult to contain in enclosures such as pens, it is not impossible to build a goat-tight…

Leaving the horns on a goat can be dangerous to others, to property or to the goat itself. Ideally, removing the horn buds of kids, or young goats, is most humane. There are instances where an adult…

Many people imagine goats the size of small dogs when they hear the phrase "miniature goat," and they often wonder how anything so small can be useful. In fact, most mature miniature goats are 19 to…

A goat may come down with scours or severe diarrhea while it is battling a bacterial infection in its digestive system. When it comes to curing goats of scours, farmers have long relied on the leaves…

Goats are raised for various reasons: as pets, for their coats, for milk or for goat meat. The hoofed creatures have a short, bleating call, which they use to communicate with each other. Trained…

Goat feeders are utilized to ensure that your goats get enough feed. Using a trough to feed your goats will result in most of the feed ending up on the floor. Make your own cost effective hanging goat…

Goats are very expressive animals capable of displaying a wide range of emotions from joy to fear. This may be why goat enthusiasts love their caprine friends so very much. Fortunately, when goats…

Sheep are social animals accustomed to following the herd, but a single sheep may follow its curiosity and wander. In lieu of a sheepdog, a collar or harness can help you control an animal securely…

Goats are somewhat notorious for having minds of their own. While these four-legged animals make great pets, dairy producers and show animals, they can be difficult to train. However, with the right…

Goats are often raised for their meat but their coats can also be shorn to produce fibers for clothing. Before you begin shearing a goat, you must determine how often your particular breed of goat can…

Goats need regular grooming. While goat grooming is not as intensive as horse grooming, failure to regularly maintain your goat causes issues. Regularly checking your goat's hooves and keeping them at…

Goats are known for their voracious appetites, so having a male goat that doesn't eat can be an alarming experience, especially for newcomers to the world of goats. Lack of appetite is not an illness…

Goats are particularly susceptible to worms because they graze pasture and constantly consume the worm larvae. It is important to deworm them to keep the worms at bay and the animals healthy. Deworm…

Humans have been domesticating goats and raising these animals as livestock since ancient times, with archaeological findings suggesting that goat domestication first occurred as early as 7000 B.C,…

Due to the grazing nature of goats -- feeding on leave and trees, for example -- worms move onto goat skin with relative ease. Goats also feed on grass and weeds, where worms also live. Because goats…

Canine warts, or canine papilloma, are commonly found on older poodles. The papilloma virus attacks the poodle's immune system and causes lesions on its skin. Most commonly found around the mouth and…

Sheep are herbivores that browse and graze most of the time, with the average ewe consuming about 3/4 of a ton of total fodder (pasture and hay) per year. Because sheep receive better nutrients from…

Birds can be a joy to watch when they come to your garden to feed or bathe. The same birds can become a nuisance if they nest in your attic or roost on your roof or eaves and dirty it with their…

Although goats have been domesticated for many centuries, they are still born as wild animals. Although you can let your goats live untamed in the pasture, taming them can make them easier to handle…

Successfully grazing goats on clover after a frost requires you to follow a strict feeding regimen and to watch your goats closely during the days after each hard frost. Unlike certain warm-season…

Caring for Angora goats properly requires a thorough understanding of this fiber goat's nutritional and grooming needs. As a goat species raised for its hair, the Angora goat produces a long, thick…

Gorals and goats both belong to the sub-family caprinae which also includes sheep, ibex and muskox. The two species belong to different genera in this sub-family and have a few similarities. On the…

Feeders for goats can be made from materials you may already have around your farm. You can buy commercial feeders, but many farmers find that these feeders leave a lot of room for waste by the goats…

Keeping pigeons has been a common hobby in parts of Europe for centuries, but is gaining popularity in North America as well. In order to maintain healthy and happy pigeons, certain aspects should be…

Goats don't need fancy homes in order to be healthy. As long as they are cozy and dry, goats are content to live just about anywhere. Wet goats get sick more easily; this means they need a roof over…

Angora goats produce mohair. Their coats grow 12 inches a year, and they are groomed or sheared twice a year, toward the end of winter and the end of summer. This is done to help them see, to prevent…

Petting zoos or petting farms are places where children and adults can pet small, docile creatures such as lambs, pigs and even deer. Creating your own petting zoo requires a careful understanding of…

A goat's feet and hooves are essential so that it can balance on steep crevices and on rocks. When a goat is walking in an odd manner, this often signals that its feet are hurting, which is usually…

To keep your goats healthy and protected, it is important to have a durable hay barn that can shelter them from the elements and prevent other animals from eating their food. Your goat hay barn…

When breeding goats, it is important to know about goat kidding and what to expect when a goat gives birth. Helping the animal stay calm can make the event easier on the mother and kid, and it can…

Fixing folded ears on baby goats requires prompt action in order to retrain the ear cartilage and keep the ears from remaining permanently creased. These folded or creased ears typically occur in goat…

Goats can get infested with different kinds of parasites as a result of grazing in contaminated areas. Worm goats on a regular basis with a good quality wormer that is appropriate for the type of…

Goats are inquisitive and determined to get out of their pen, or to get in to wherever they can cause mischief. They have the same needs as other livestock and pets: good nutrition, companionship,…

According to Fias Co Farm, goats infested with worms display several signs, such as pale gums, diarrhea, dull coat, reduced production of milk, listlessness, going off the feed, slightly high body…

Caprine arthritis encephalitis is present in up to 81 percent of goat herds in the U.S., according to Gail Bowman, coordinator for the International Boer Goat Association for the Northwestern United…

Keyhole feeders are commonly used on goat farms to dispense hay. These feeders limit the amount of food a goat can take, allowing the farmer to refill the feeder less frequently, while preventing the…

Goats are one of the most versatile of the domesticated farm animals. In addition to being bred for meat, living goats can provide skin, hair, and milk. Goats are also used to clear land, due to their…

Goats are similar to most mammals when it comes to giving birth to their kids. Many of the physical processes are the same. The stages of labor are nesting and pre-labor or very early signs, then the…

Properly treating mites in goats requires prompt recognition of symptoms and the ability to follow through with the entire treatment regimen. Various mite species that could infest your goat include…

Coccidiosis is a parasitic intestinal infection that affects livestock and pets. In goats, the two main strains of coccidiosis, Eimeria ninakohlyakimovae and Eimeria arlongi, are ingested and the…

Though the idea of an electric fence may be shocking to some, it is actually a good means of keeping goats within their pasture. The fence only provides a small shock to deter the goats from…

You can spot an unhealthy goat by its dull and discolored coat. Keep your goat's coat shining, by feeding it a balanced diet, keeping bedding areas clean, and washing your goat when it gets dirty. Pay…

Goats are hard animals to contain. By nature, a lone goat following its herding instinct will seek to travel off premises to connect with other goats. At the same time, goats facing each other across…

Building a goat grain feeder is inexpensive and saves time by eliminating the daily chore of cleaning standard, store-bought feed pans. A goat grain feeder is a long, narrow trough suspended in the…

The gentle bleating of a goat can be heard on both formal and hobby farms. Worms are a common parasite found in farm animals, goats included. Whether the goats are stock or pets, they must be dewormed…

Finding a lump in a goat's neck can be frightening. There are many problems that can cause them to show up; some are more serious than others. Proper identification of the knot and its location is…

Wasting hay is a common pastime for goats. They burrow into a bale, searching for the choicest morsels to eat. Along the way, they drop good hay onto the ground where it gets trampled, making it…

Angora goats are raised for mohair, the soft hair they produce, which can be blended with wool to create garments. Package clean mohair for selling, as dirty mohair will be discounted significantly.…

Cloves and cinnamon are known for their antiseptic properties, as well as their ability to stimulate appetite and digestion. In fact, a U.S. Department of Agriculture study found herbal supplements to…

Goats can be picky eaters, but hay should be incorporated in their diet. It is possible to make your own hay to feed them, and it can be mixed with a legume such as alfalfa for increased variety. DIY…

For some who raise goats, the prospect of loading a goat on a trailer is a discouraging one. Such need not be the case. A goat that is trained to lead will be a benefit to its owner, even if the owner…

Petting zoos are an entertaining and psychologically enriching experience for children and parents alike. When designing a petting zoo, consider the most-suitable animals and the correct placement of…

Homemade goat harnesses can be made with leather, recycled seat belts and lawn chair straps, nylon webbing, rope or string. It is imperative to make a harness out of strong materials that will not…

Recognize the signs that your pregnant goat is about to give birth so you can be as prepared as possible. A goat's gestation period is between 145 and 155 days. If you have a pregnant goat, you should…

In the veterinary field, slide preparation is commonly used for fecal and blood examination. A fecal examination is the microscopic analysis of feces. The test is used when pets have diarrhea,…

Knowing how to use clippers properly on goats means the difference between an attractive, sleek goat and one that has unkempt patches of long or dirt-laden hair. Whether you need to clip your goat in…

Treating sore goat hooves is an essential management practice that helps minimize potentially serious long-term effects of foot infections. Sore goat hooves typically occur most frequently as a result…

Feeding kids can be challenging, especially when they're the four-legged kind. For the first few weeks of life, kids nurse. Sometime between two and five weeks of age, they start to feed on grains and…

Presentation is crucial when it comes to bringing an animal to a market, as it can result in a higher ranking from the judges, according to Philip Hasheider's book "How to Raise Sheep." The lamb…

Goats are categorized by the region of origin. Of the Spanish breeds the Spanish meat goat is the largest and meatiest of the goat varieties that originated in Europe and specifically in Spain. There…

Animal lovers often enjoy a trip to their local petting zoo. It gives them an opportunity to be near their favorite farm animals and to engage with them on a regular basis. Those who do not have local…

Goat judging encourages the maintenance of breeding standards necessary for a healthy and productive stock. Dairy goats are judged by the shape of their body, or conformation, and dairy character, or…

In their natural habitat, goats spend most of their day walking and climbing over rocks and compacted earth. The constant wear keeps their ever-growing hooves at a reasonable length. In captivity,…

A goat's age is directly linked to the state of its teeth. A quick glance at the wear and tear of the goat's front teeth will determine its stage of life. During the typical goat's lifespan of 10 to…

Goat castration is commonly done by a technique called "banding." Banding is a quick and bloodless way to castrate young male goats or kids. Because there is no open incision, the risk of infection is…

Very few breeds of goat are native to the United States. In fact, there are only four native U.S. breeds, according to the Florida Meat Goat Association. The Tennessee fainting goat, also known as the…

Lamb is the meat from sheep under 1-year-old. Sheep often reach a market weight of 120 to 140 lb. at 5 to 6 months of age. The dressing percentage for lamb is about 54 percent. This means 54 percent…

If you're going to have a goat on your land, you need to plan on having quite a few. Goats thrive best in herds and actually develop relationships with the others in the herd. If predators make off…

Many people raise goats as pets or to show in competitions. Maintaining their hooves is important to the health of the goat. Leg and foot problems may develop with improper trimming or neglecting to…

Goats, along with sheep, were some of the earliest animals to be domesticated. Today, they are still raised for their meat and milk, which is often made into cheese. Some species such as the Angora…

No farm is complete without a goat. Gentle and curious, naughty and accident-prone, goats provide hours of amusement, weed out plants other livestock should not eat and can be used as a reliable…

Many portable chicken cages are shaped like a tent. They have lockable quarters at the top or on the back side to lock the chicken in at night. Nesting bags or boxes in the quarters provide secure…

Goat owners refer to the elimination of stomach parasites in goats as worming. Most worms live in the goat's stomach and feed on its blood. If left untreated, goats can die from anemia. Goats are…

Goats are hardworking and are an excellent addition to a rural homestead. Keeping goats healthy requires the provision of shelter from inclement weather. A goat shelter need not be an elaborate…

Goats were among the earliest domesticated animals. Skeletal remains have been found at archaeological sites dating back to 6,000 and 7,000 B.C. Goats are intelligent, curious social animals that make…

Long-term care for livestock requires you to have some knowledge about the nutrient density of the food you feed them. Different kinds of hay have differing amounts of minerals and protein, so knowing…

Purchasing a young goat from someone other than the breeder raises a few questions regarding the goat's age. You should know that it is impossible to determine the goat's precise age. However, a…

Creep feeding kids or baby goats is the accepted method of feeding to lesson the stress of weaning. Creep feeding is also used to make the kids gain the maximum amount of weight without wasting feed.…

Bloating may be life-threatening in goats. Healthy goats naturally have large bellies. This indicates that it has a well-developed rumen, which is necessary for efficient digestion. A bloated goat has…

Most domestic goats are not allowed to keep their horns, being disbudded at less than 3 weeks old. Disbudding, or dehorning, prevents injury to the goat owner and handlers and also prevents fighting…

Whether you are keeping a goat as a pet or as a milk or meat provider, there are a number of reasons why taming your goat is beneficial. A tame goat is easier to handle, which can be vital if at some…

Goats are extremely susceptible to parasites called worms due to their grazing patterns and weakness in immunity. All goats have worms, but unchecked worm infestations can cause severe health problems…

After generally 63 days of pregnancy, a female dog--or bitch--will go through the three-stage process known as whelping. The term whelping refers to the birth event of any carnivorous mammal, although…

Horses can fall victim to different types of parasites. Having some level of intestinal parasites is normal for a domesticated horse, but when parasite numbers get out of control, health problems can…

Armadillos have very strong legs and claws that they use for tearing apart mounds of soil. That causes a huge headache for homeowners because armadillos can dig up a whole yard in a matter of hours.…

When children want to join the 4-H organization, a group that promotes youth learning by doing, one of the first things they must do is to choose a project to focus on. For children in rural or…

Goats are social farm animals that enjoy living in groups. Like children, goats love to play and be kept entertained, however they do need some special care. Goats need to be milked often to avoid…

Hard udders on goats may be a sign of a congested udder or of a common inflammation called "mastitis." Congestion is extremely common after giving birth or during a dry period for high-producing…

Goats need de-worming often and goat breeders need to de-worm goats every month and then every three weeks in summer. Goats are susceptible to intestinal parasite infections and coccidiosis is one of…

Wood shelters are cost effective outdoor shelters for your animal. Wood shelters are not difficult to make and do not require a great deal of time to construct. You may build your animal's wood…

Goats are natural grazers. Anyone who has been close to them also knows they enjoy eating while standing, too, so we can plan to build a goat trough that is raised from the ground. Wood is better for…

Sheep are reared for their fleece or mutton. But the way a sheep is fed determines how much hay is wasted in the process or how much wool is ruined due to large amounts of vegetable matter. A good…

Slaughtering a steer for meat can be a cost-effective way of securing your own beef for consumption. Killing your own meat assures you of what you are eating, because you know exactly what went into…

Being present at the birth of a new litter of goats is a rewarding and frightening affair. While goats give birth in a timely manner, they often break in between kids, making it difficult to know…

Feeding your goats on the ground is no longer an effective method. It is a waste of all that valuable goat feed. There is also the risk that your goat will ingest worms or other disease-causing…

Goats, being both nimble and intelligent, are notoriously difficult to fence. They happily chew and weaken most traditional fencing materials, and have been known both to dig under or climb over a…

Parsley is not just for garnish on your dinner plate. Your goats, as well as other animals, can benefit from a handful of parsley as part of their normal diet. Parsley aids in digestion and is often…

Goats are sheared for their wool, such as the Pygora or Angora goat. The wool fibers can then be sold at market, and later turned into yard for clothing. Shearing can be hard on your back, because you…

Using a homemade goat milker is a lot easier than milking the goat by hand. It uses vacuum pressure to pull out the milk without being uncomfortable to the goat. Milkers are best used on goats that…

Parasites in goats can range from relatively harmless, such as the intestinal thread worm, to deadly, such as the barber pole worm. To identify the best course of treatment for your goat's parasites…

Your goats' lives depend in part upon your ability to identify and properly manage internal parasites. All goats have internal parasites -- potentially serious health problems only develop when these…

Treatment for the external parasites of goats consists of farm management techniques and pesticides. Proper management tools control or prevent external parasites, while pesticides kill the parasites.…

Though it's potentially quite challenging, raising goats without using a chemical dewormer is rapidly becoming a necessity for goat owners, since so many goat worm species have developed resistance to…

Looking after the health of your goat includes not just feeding and watering it, but also trimming its hooves. The side walls of the hooves grow fast and are worn down naturally by rocks or trimming.…

Keeping your goats entertained is crucial! A goat playground will provide your goats with exercise, while stimulating their minds and keeping them content. Safety comes first when creating a goat…

Goats are playful, full of personality, and economical to feed, especially if you make your own feeding buckets. Not the least bit fussy, goats can be trained to eat from metal containers, troughs or…

Grazing typically describes a type of feeding in which animals forage for plants and grass for consumption. The word "graze" is derived from the Old English word "grasian," which means "grass."…

Cable is an effective horse fencing solution that is often combined with electricity to keep animals from leaning on it. Although no fence is 100% safe for a horse, cable is considered safer than…

Management of cattle and livestock has challenges of its own, especially when it comes to dealing with nervous animals. Whether the procedure is milking, dental care, inoculation or anatomical…

Goat are picky eaters, and tend to feed on only forage or hay that contains the nutrients they require, such as fiber, protein and vitamins. In order to stay healthy, the animals need a mix of fibrous…

Because of the way goats are built, it can be difficult to tell that a goat is pregnant simply by looking at the shape or size of her abdomen. For that reason, there are other ways that are more…

When diagnosing a horse's cough and runny nose, veterinarians commonly look for three diseases. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, bacterial pleuropneumonia and equine herpes virus all cause…

Microscopic parasites called barberpole worms live in the stomachs of goats, sheep and cattle. Signs of a barberpole infection in goats include pale mucous membranes of the lower eye lids and gums,…

Goats need to have their hooves trimmed on a regular basis. Normally, they wear their hoofs down climbing on rocks. If the hooves didn't quickly grow back they would soon wear their feet down to the…

Horns may be natural on a goat, but they are not always appreciated by other goats or owners. Goats with horns are more prone to getting their heads hung in fences, sometimes resulting in death.…

When goats are losing their hair or have just undergone surgery, keeping them warm is a top priority. A goat blanket thrown over the goat's head and secured underneath its belly keeps the goat warm…

Bacterial pneumonia is the No. 1 killer in goats. There are vaccinations to help prevent against pneumonia caused by Mannheimia, Pasteurella multocida and haemolytica. Adult goats should be vaccinated…

Horse or equine warts are small grey or pink growths typically found on the muzzle of young horses. Caused by the equine papillomavirus, these warts are contagious and can be transmitted from horse to…

Switch grass (Panicum virgatum L.) is a native prairie grass that grows where more conventional crops may not be able to take hold. This grass is particularly good on steep, rocky terrain and grows…

If your goat has a worm problem, there are several measures that your veterinarian can take, most of which are prescription medicines. However, if you are looking for an organic solution to the…

Castration is the removal of the testicles in male animals to prevent them from breeding. It can also keep some animals more docile and cooperative. Several methods of castration are available. Each…

Sore mouth, orf or ecthyma is a condition that affects many different cattle species, like goats. The condition is a result of an infection from a virus and results in painful and bleeding lesions…

It's best to know when your Nubian doe will kid, especially if she is a first-time mother or has previously had problems giving birth. Figuring out your Nubian goat's due date is a simple task if you…

Market goats need to be sheared in order to look clean and presentable. Keeping your market goat neatly sheared will also reduce the risk of skin diseases caused by flies and insects that burrow in…

Goats are seasonally fertile and only mate in the autumn and early winter--so that kids are born in the spring--and will mate every three weeks until conception occurs or the mating season ends.

Dehydration is a serious condition for goats and can kill an untreated animal quickly. When the goat is losing fluids faster than their bodies are able to replace them, they are dehydrated. Goats that…

Adding leaves to a meat goat's feed is a way to supplement the diet and to introduce variations in the food supply. There are many different plants that goats enjoy browsing on including mulberry and…

Tack boxes, used to keep small items such as hoof trimmers, medicines and brushes, are usually small affairs. In dealing with goats, however, it is often a good idea to build a strong, large tack box…

Goats can suffer from sarcoptic mange, chorioptic mange, psoroptic mange and demodectic mange. Each mange is caused by a different skin mite and treatment must be tailored accordingly. Injections,…

Ringworm is a fungal infection that inhabits the dead cells that form on the surface of the skin. Ringworm can affect all domestic animals, and humans, and pathogenic fungi that cause the disease are…

Biting lice affect many animals, from companion animals like cats and dogs, to poultry, cattle, goats and other farm animals. Biting lice feed primarily off the hair, feathers and skin secretions of…

Signs that a female goat is getting ready to go into labor may differ slightly between species, especially where fainting goats are concerned. However, it is always best to have your veterinarian on…

Neutering a buckling, a young male goat, can be accomplished with a set of Burdizzos when the kid is about 8 to 12 weeks old. Young animals are easier to handle, and heal more quickly, than older…

4-H members raise goats for milk production, meat, mohair or cashmere fiber, brush control and companions. 4-H is an organization for students ages 9 to 19, and 4-H goat projects are available in most…

In order to keep goats healthy and happy, one must provide a clean living space. . Preferring to stay close to each other during resting times, goats do not require a large area in which to reside.…

Goats are domesticated animals related closely to sheep and are raised for their milk, hair and meat--called mutton or chevron. They are also raised as pets. Most goats' hair consists of two coats: a…

Determining signs of late pregnancy in Nubian goats can be exceptionally important in determining the care and attention a female goat should receive. Nubians typically carry their young (kids) for…

Pinkeye is an infection of the eye. Pinkeye in goats is different than pinkeye in cattle, and should not be treated with cattle medication. Noninfectious pinkeye can be caused by dust or dirt getting…

Ivermectin is an anti-parasite medication that can be used to treat pets such as dogs and cats as well as farm animals including sheep, goats and cattle. Some parasites are showing signs of being…

Mange is a serious skin disorder that affects animals like dogs, cats and goats. Mange mites tunnel into an animal's skin to suck its blood, and cause sores, scabs and infection. Mange is most likely…

Goats are known for being smelly, playful, stubborn and for eating anything within reach. Goat feeders help to protect the rest of your property from these ferocious nibblers by providing food on…

Not treating your goat for fleas and ticks can cause illlness as well as skin problems. Applying Frontline to your goats once a month is one way to control fleas and ticks. It kills 100% of fleas…

Goats and sheep are often overlooked when it comes to livestock wormers. There are wormers for almost every other type of livestock. Ivermectin is a popular livestock wormer that has labeled uses for…

Goats are high-energy animals that expend calories almost as fast as they assimilate them. Finding the right nutritional balance to keep meat goats gaining weight instead of losing is sometimes…

Goat meat has always been favored among certain cultural groups, particularity Hispanics and Muslims. In recent years goat meat has begun to appear on menus at trendy restaurants. Although many breeds…

Goats are insatiable eaters, famous for munching on anything and everything they are able to reach. Having food available at all times for your goats means that they will forgo destructive foraging…

Many people think goats can eat anything. In popular culture, they have been portrayed as garbage eaters and living lawn mowers. If you go to a petting zoo, you may have goats trying to nibble on your…

Slaughterhouses are places where animals are slaughtered for food. Most slaughterhouses obtain permits to prepare only one sort of meat, though it isn't uncommon to see larger slaughterhouses with…

Treat your goat well, and your goat will treat you back. Raising goats can lead to useful products such as milk or even meat, if the animals are properly kept. Goats also make nice pets. Regardless of…

The type of shelter needed for a herd of goats will vary by climate and the type of goats in the herd. Dairy goats require more substantial shelter than meat goats. Goats in warm dry climates require…

Goats digest feed in a forestomach called a rumen. A rumen contains microorganisms that break down grasses into essential nutrients used by goats. Since rumen bacteria degrade consumed proteins, goat…

An insidious killer responsible for the deaths of both mixed-breed, backyard nannies and purebred, prize-winning show goats, the barber pole worm survives by sucking blood from the bodies of infected…

Goats are revered, not just for their wool, milk and meat, but also for their personalities. Goats love to munch and often need to be fenced to protect surrounding vegetation. Fencing in goats will…

People generally clip their goats' ears as part of a permanent identification system. This process is called ear notching, and it can help you distinguish an individual goat from a large herd. A goat…

The goat skeleton, like the skeleton of all animals, gives the goat its distinctive shape. The skeletal system consists of bones, but it isn't as simple as that. The bones of the goat's skeleton have…

Whether you own one goat or hundred, goat stanchions are important pieces of equipment for every goat owner. A stanchion is a device which holds the head of the goat while milking and doing routine…

Pygmy goats are kept on farms because they are great producers of milk, but they also make affectionate, intelligent pets. An 8-by-10-foot shed with elevated eating and sleeping places is large enough…

Raising goats in the backyard or on a small farm can be fun, educational and done as supplemental food or income for your homestead. Whether you raise goats as family pets, for their milk and cheese…

Mange can make your goat look and feel terrible by causing skin irritation and hair loss. Mange mites burrow under the skin to suck the goat's blood, and this burrowing causes severe irritation such…

Goatweed occurs in pastures, on roadsides and in areas where the soil has been disturbed. Its scientific name is Croton texensis, and its common name varies with the area in which it is growing. The…

Equipped with an obsessive curiosity and the tendency to nibble on any leafy green browse they can find, goats often consume poisonous plants, including rhododendrons and azaleas. Usually, they eat…

Goats are social, intelligent and multipurpose farm animals that are commonly raised all over the world for their resources. Farmers collect milk, wool and meat from goats for human use. Goats require…

Natural lawn mowers and providers of meat, milk, wool and hide, goats are a renewable livestock animal popular for animal husbandry and agriculture. Individuals often start goat farms to produce a…

Acidosis, or ruminal tympany, results in the pH level of a goat's abdomen becoming acidic. This condition affects goats of all ages and breeds and both sexes. This condition can range from a less…

Urinary problems are a common medical problem for goats but develop most frequently in male goats, who have a longer urethra than females. The urethra is a small tubelike organ that removes urine from…

Wood hay feeders help keep hay off the ground and free from contamination. They also help save money, since your goats will eat more of the hay, as opposed to trampling it. You can make hay feeders…

Are you planning on building a goat barn? Develop barn plans carefully for the needs of your goats and your property. Goats provide milk, meat and hair and are easy to care for. All goats require…

Pinkeye is a serious illness in goats, which can eventually cause blindness if left untreated. There are two types of pinkeye; infectious (caused by by bacteria and viruses) and non-infectious. The…

There's an old saying that if a fence can't hold water, it can't hold a goat. Between their natural intelligence, an insatiable curiosity and a penchant for testing the limits, goats often drive their…

Hoof rattles were made by Native Americans and used in various ceremonies and as toys for children. The design varies from tribe to tribe and probably even between builders within each tribe. The…

There are two main types of chutes that are useful in tending to farm animals. Each type controls an animal so they behave in a specific manner at a given time.

Goats are common herd animals, found in most countries. Goats are typically found in mountainous areas and are very good climbers. Goats are herded for their milk and their meat and hide, and are…

There's no doubt that goat meat is one of the main ingredients in countless of exquisite meals around the world. Some of the most famous recipes come from Europe and South America. Goat meat has…

Certain ancient doctors of Greece forbade people to wear or sleep upon goat skins, for fear that doing so would cause them to experience epilepsy, according to Carl Bazil, co-author of "Sleep and…

Mange is a highly contagious skin condition that occurs in all goat species as a result of parasitic mite infestations. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, species of mites that may infect your…

Regardless of what type of grain and hay you feed your goats, you should supplement their daily ration with free-choice minerals to ensure that they obtain all the nutrients and minerals that their…

Red clover, a common, three-leafed weed, grows abundantly throughout North America. Because of its hardy growth pattern and sweet flavor, red clover is an ideal fodder for goats, sheep, horses and…

Often called ketosis, pregnancy toxemia is a nutrition-related disease that may occur in your pregnant doe shortly before kidding. Early symptom recognition and prompt treatment drastically reduce…

If your goats become infested with lice, you will need to apply repeated treatments to eradicate the problem. There are several treatment options on the market. If you find one goat with lice, chances…

Goats develop sarcoptic mange, or scabies, as a result of an infestation of the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. This microscopic mite tunnels into your goat's skin, causing severe irritation and itching, as…

Goat fitting stands can be used when you milk your goats, groom and trim them for show, treat them medically, trim their hooves or tag them for identification. You can attach a feed trough to the…

Providing livestock with a comfortable bed is as important as fresh food and water. There are dozens of types of beddings to choose from, and depending on what animals you're trying to accommodate…

Showing goats is a relatively new sport for the goat enthusiasts. Originally developed as a way to evaluate good breeding stock, the practice of showing goats still holds true to its roots, with the…

Goats have been a fixture of human society for hundreds of years. Valued for their milk, meat and hides, goats have been raised in the same manner for centuries. It is especially important that goats…

Glucosamine is a sugar produced in the body that strengthens cartilage, ligaments, discs, mucous membranes and tendons. Use glucosamine supplements to help rebuild and boost the cartilage in joints…

Caseous lymphadenitis (CLA) is a chronic bacterial infection of goats that causes abscesses to form on the skin or inside the body. The abscesses can decrease the value of a goat and interfere with…

The signs and symptoms of the illness diabetes in goats can be similar to those in humans. Diabetes manifests in a goat's endocrine system as a result of either insulin deficiency or insulin…

In livestock, the condition of diarrhea is called scours. There are many causes: bacterial, viral, parasites and diet. You can use Kaopectate to treat non-infectious cases of scours in goats. Diarrhea…

As the United State's population increases, more and more people are living in urban areas and never have a chance to interact with a farm animal. Farm animals provide many of the daily food products…

Although goat owners may love their caprine companions, ask one about fencing and you're likely to get a big eye roll in response. Goats are notoriously difficult to fence, but a properly constructed…

One of the most serious problems goat breeders and owners have in the United States is controlling parasites. The choice of effective drug treatments has diminished with the resistance that has built…

Goats can be challenging creatures to raise and maintain. They have a habit of breaking out of their enclosures and eating flower and vegetable gardens, attacking trash cans and generally getting into…

Whether it's your first goat show or you're a veteran in the show ring, preparing goats for show requires the same careful attention to detail. Preparing nanny goats (or adult, female milking does)…

A heavy parasite infection causes poor health and sometimes death in goats. Parasite eggs are passed from the goat's body in its feces, and they can survive for many months in a barn or pasture. As…

Notorious for their ability to escape just about any fencing system, goats seem to be the Houdini of the animal world. You can set up a hot wire fence for your goats provided you use multiple strands.…

Coughing and runny noses have just as many potential causes for goats as they do for humans; there's a reason their offspring are called "kids." Determining why your goat has a runny nose and a cough…

Seeing liquid oozing out of your goat's eye can be an alarming experience. Being familiar with common causes of eye discharge in goats can help you deal properly with this health problem--before it…

Goats are relatively easy to care for and have been kept by humans for centuries for their milk, meat and hides. But goats are prone to internal parasites such as roundworms, hookworms and whipworms.…

Grazing animals can be negatively affected by herbicides. Although using herbicides is sometimes necessary, reducing their use and taking precautions will ensure the safety of your grazing animals.

Herbicides can be dangerous to both goats and cows. There are ways to make your grass and plants healthy without the use of herbicides, thus reducing your need for them and ensuring the safety of your…

According to Fias Co Farm, symptoms of worms in your goat can include pale gums, diarrhea or clumpy stools, decreased milk production, loss of appetite, listlessness, dehydration, swelling under the…

Livestock owners know that a lot of thought and work goes into keeping animals healthy. One of the best actions to take is regular de-worming. Your veterinarian can prescribe chemical wormers for your…

Goats have become an environmentally friendly method of clearing vegitation from different locations to reduce wildfire dangers. A portable goat house is essential if goats are going to be moved…

Building a hay rack for goats has several advantages. It will enable them to eat their hay and will not allow them to scatter it, lay in it and create waste of their food. Hay racks are generally…

Keeping your goat worm-free can be a challenging task since many goats graze--picking up worms in the ground that live in goat (and other animal) droppings. In some areas, worming products…

Goats are a very common farm animal. Supplying milk for families as well as being natural lawnmowers make them a very popular pet to have on a farm or any rural area. Since they are outside most of…

Sometimes known as red mange and caused by microscopic mites in the skin, demodectic mange is best treated early, as soon as symptoms start to appear. Mainstream veterinary cures for treating the…

Stanchions are upright posts that you can use to keep animals in place. Some are simply bars to tie a rope around, while others are more elaborate and used for milking. Making your own stanchion for…

Mineral oil is a clear, odorless lubricant that helps your goat pass compacted feces if constipated. Mineral oil also minimizes the gas accumulation in your goat's stomach if your goat has bloat, a…

Whether you have only a few goats for pets or a commercial herd of 50 does for meat production, separate stalls help you provide individualized care for your goats throughout the year. Although you…

One of the most important parts of feeding your goat is ensuring that your goat's food remains unsullied by manure. Goats can knock their bedding and feces into their food. When they eat the…

Goats don't require many vaccines; the only commonly recommended vaccination is CD-T. It prevents the overeating disease, enterotoxemia, and lockjaw. Other vaccines may be given, but they aren't…

It is not always easy to tell if a goat is pregnant. There are specific signs of pregnancy; however, many signs can be false. When breeding goats, it is best not to keep females with males all the…

Mineral oil can be used to treat bloat and constipation in goats, but it can be difficult at times to get the goat to swallow the oil. Because the oil has no taste, the goat may not recognize the oil…

Goats have a very sensitive digestive system that likes a high amount of fiber and foliage that mainly comes from the forage they consume. A standard meal for goats would be hay and a small amount of…

Goats have grown in popularity in recent years and can be found on farms and ranches around the world. Prized for their meat, milk and hides, goats are hardy and fairly simple to care for. Goats have…

Goats can suffer from a range of both internal and external parasites, including round worms, coccidia, mites and lice. According to the University of Florida Cooperative Extension Office, external…

If you have milk-producing goats, selling goat cheese can be a great way to increase the revenue on your farm. Goat cheeses are sought after for their stronger flavor, lower fat content, and high…

Tetanus in goats is a neurological disease caused by a common bacterium (Clostridium tetani) that usually results in death once your animal develops an infection. Clostridium tetani produces spores…

Many goat breeders have stopped sheltering animals in traditional barns to avoid crowding, which leads to respiratory infections. Fleece-producing and most other goats primarily need protection from…

Warts are a common problem for goats. A wart is the result of a viral infection of the skin and are contagious. Chemical treatments can be expensive and toxic for your goat. There are several natural…

Mange is a persistent skin disease in goats caused by parasitic mites, microscopic members of the arachnid family. The four main types of mange that produce symptoms in goats are demodectic mange,…

Most goat owners want to know if their goat is pregnant as soon as possible after breeding. Detecting early signs of goat pregnancy can be difficult, but knowing what you should be looking for…

With some skill and a heavy-duty sewing machine, you can make a safe, comfortable and durable goat harness. Specialized harnesses, from packsaddles to breeding rigs, are complicated for the beginning…

An underground, or invisible, fence is an increasingly popular device because of its lower cost when compared with conventional fencing. The gravamen of an underground fence is the use of a buried…

Also called sarcoptic mange, scabies in goats occurs when tiny mites (Sarcoptes scabiei) dig into your goat's skin, creating hair loss, thickened skin, itchiness and crusty areas on the skin.…

Bloat in goats occurs when excessive gas builds up in a goat's rumen (the part of its stomach where your goat stores food). The most dangerous type of bloat (frothy bloat) causes a goat's rumen to…

Propylene glycol is used to treat a condition in pregnant goats (called pregnancy toxemia) or early lactating goats (called ketosis) that occurs when a doe's body accumulates excessive ketones…

After years of treating goats for worms and other parasites with various medications, the parasites are becoming drug resistant. This has made parasitic infections in goats more deadly and problematic…

Ringworm in goats occurs as a result of a fungal infection that can show up anywhere on your goat's body. Characterized by the appearance of a distinctive round patch of hair surrounded by a hairless…

Livestock, including goats, should always be fed off the ground. This prevents the feed waste that occurs when an animal walks and defecates on hay. Keeping the hay off the ground and away from the…

Building your own goat feeder can be an easy task. While there are many methods to choose from, in the end it comes down to your preference and how your goats react to the feeder. One simple way is to…

Draxxin, also referred to as Tulothromycin, is a prescription medication used to treat goats, cattle and swine for infection. It is available only from a veterinarian and is not safe for human use.

Slippery elm is an herb that has been used for centuries to treat a wide variety of ailments in both humans and animals. Available at most natural-foods stores, this supplement is the dried, ground…

Anemia is a shortage of red blood cells and low iron levels in a body. It is common in both humans and animals, but is easily treated if caught early. Goats can develop anemia for a variety of…

Goats are good at hiding their pregnancies. Even the most skilled farmer can have difficulty detecting whether a doe is expecting, making it rather hard to determine a goat's due date if you don't…

Colic in goats, (generally called "bloat") is caused when too much gas forms in the goat's rumen (her largest stomach) and is not expelled by belching. Frothy bloat is caused by the goat eating too…

Female goats (called does) will most commonly spontaneously abort during the last two months of their gestation -- earlier abortions during pregnancy cannot usually be detected. There can be many…

Goats can suffer from painful joints just like humans. Fortunately, they can also take some human supplements to help. Glucosamine may help with the associated pain and inflammation of swollen joints…

Lice are a common problem on goats nearly everywhere. The signs and symptoms are obvious: incessant itching, restless behavior and general irritability frequently point to lice infestation. A…

Homemade goat feeders, for hay and grain, can be made with a few basic tools and supplies. In putting up your feeders, keep in mind your goats' basic behaviors and likes and dislikes. The type of hay…

CAE (Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis) is often a touchy subject among goat herders. The condition, generally brought upon or worsened by stress, is typically fatal and contagious. Yet a goat may live…

As ruminants (animals with four stomachs that chew a cud and primarily consume a plant-based diet), goats require a daily intake of roughage in the form of hay, especially during the winter when grass…

There are many ways you can go about attaining a goat harness.You can opt to buy a goat harness, or if you are feeling industrious, you can try making your own. Cost for materials for a goat harness…

Ruminal acidosis, or grain overload, in goats can be life threatening. When goats consume large quantities of easily fermentable grain, the rumen distends and diarrhea begins, dehydration ensues and…

Pinkeye in goats can originate from many different sources. Non-infectious pinkeye can be caused by dust or other airborne irritants, vitamin A deficiency or toxins. Infectious pinkeye is caused by…

Cydectin as a medication for both internal parasites (such as worms) and external parasites (such as lice, ticks, and fleas) has an ambivalent reputation in the goat farming industry. Concerns over…

There are several possible causes of warts appearing on a goat's mouth. If they are papillomatosis (common warts), they are likely to fall off on their own. However, the most likely cause is a disease…

Pinkeye in goats (also called infectious keratoconjunctivitis) is an inflammation of the eye typically caused by the bacteria Mycoplasma conjunctivae or Chlamydia. According to Maria Leite-Browning,…

If you've decided to raise goats for meat, milk, or pleasure, you'll need to have a strong, predator-proof fence around your property to keep them safely contained. Though prefabricated goat fencing…

Caseous lymphadenitis, commonly referred to as CL, is a highly contagious bacterial infection that occurs in goats throughout the world. The bacterium enters your goat's body through breaks in the…

Having your beloved pet wether (castrated male goat) or prized show buck (uncastrated male goat) exhibit signs of urinary calculi--also called urolithiasis--can be a stressful experience for any goat…

If you're a goat owner, your animals' health and comfort is of utmost importance. And if your goats have lice, you'll want to take care of this problem as soon as possible. Lice can cause a goat…

Goats have a tendency to jump over or crawl under anything in their way, so they are difficult to contain within a fence. Although wire fencing can be electrified to keep goats in, you should follow…

Gardenias grow white or cream-colored flowers and generally are from 2 to 6 feet tall, though they can grow much taller. Some goats will eat the plant and its flowers.

Due to their curious nature and tendency to jump over and crawl under wires, goats are one of the most difficult species of livestock to secure within a fence. Electric fences deliver an electrical…

If you have goats, you know how hard they can be on everything within reach, and how difficult it can be to hold them for milking or other maintenance. Building a stand will help you solve both…

When a goat damages one of its horns, it can be a very painful experience. There is a blood vessel and a nerve that extends up into each horn, so depending on the extent of the injury, there can be a…

Goats and cattle both belong to the same family of ungulates (hoofed mammals), Bovidae. Horns are a defining feature of most species in both subfamilies. The underlying anatomy in goat and cattle…

Even if you have just one goat, sooner or later the time will come when using a goat stanchion (also called a milk stand) will make your job as a goat owner much easier. Between being able to use your…

Castration--removing the testicles--is a common management tool used by goat owners to prevent unwanted pregnancies and undesirable buck behavior, such as aggression and unpleasant odors during…

According to data from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, goat meat is consumed more than any other red meat in the world. A common source of goat meat in the United States, market goats…

Regardless of what kind of goat you own, your animal needs nutrients every day to stay alive; most goat owners provide these nutrients in the form of fresh grass, hay and grain. Trying to predict how…

Parasites are nasty creatures that affect all domestic livestock. Goats have a particularly horrible affliction in the form of nose bots--a larvae that hatches from an egg laid in the mucosa of the…

Although many goat owners still use natural breeding methods for their goats, artificial insemination in goats is becoming a popular option. If you're considering artificial insemination for your…

Often taking place after a goat escapes and gets into the grain bin, goat acidosis occurs when your goat eats too much concentrate (grain). Knowing goat acidosis symptoms will help you identify and…

Deworming your goats on a regular basis is critical to their overall health. Parasites are notorious for causing poor hair coats, low milk production and general lassitude. Especially in cases where…

A healthy goat has a shiny coat and loose, pliable skin that is free of irritation and sores. Keeping your eyes open for signs of common skin problems will help you more quickly discover and treat any…

There are different ways to remove the horns of a goat and knowledgeable people disagree on which way is best. Debudding of young goats can be done using a hot iron to burn the emerging horn buds so…

Male and female goats should be kept separate until you are ready to breed them. You will then be able to watch for symptoms of pregnancy so that you will know if your breeding sessions were…

The female goat, also called a doe, is pregnant for an average of 150 days. This is called the gestation period. To track the stages of pregnancy and accurately predict the due date, it is important…

Goats, like many other mammals, are subject to developing anemia if heavily infected by one or more of any number of parasites. These parasites include liver flukes and barber pole or wire worms.…

Joint pain in goats can occur for a variety of reasons, such as injury, the normal wear and tear of old age (osteoarthritis) or a viral infection like CAE (Caprine arthritis encephalitis) or…

Goats will eat just about anything, but owners want to ensure they are getting a balanced diet. With hay prices rising, farmers and researchers seek out less costly alternatives that still provide…

While some goats are born without horns, a distinction known as "polled," most are born with them, and are later dehorned by breeders. The dehorning procedure is done for several reasons, including…

According to the experts at Fias Co Farm, you cannot confirm that a goat is pregnant simply by sight alone. To make matters more complicated, pregnant female goats, which are called does, do not start…

For decades, horses have been dewormed according to a schedule. Medications were administered whether or not the horse showed signs of having a parasite. This unintentional overuse of deworming…

Typically, castration is performed on young male goats (kids) when they are a few days old. According to Goat Wisdom, banding is the the most popular method of kid castration due to the fact that…

MiniNubians are a small breed of dairy goat. Friendly and well-tempered, you can use the MiniNubian in shows similar to dog shows. You can also keep it as a pet or use it to produce milk. For the new…

Milking a goat with nothing but your bare hands can be a pain, even to the experienced milker. A vacuum milker can save a farmer hours, but it is too expensive for many people. For a couple of dollars…

When selecting a buck goat to sire a flock of goats, pick an animal with traits that would be beneficial to the herd. Pick buck goats with deeper, larger bones using insight from a livestock…

A goat's diet consists of hay roughage, a protein source, lots of fiber and fresh, clean water. Make sure goat food is fresh and palatable with tips from a livestock consultant in this free video on…

It is difficult to tell if a goat is pregnant and generally requires a blood test or sonogram from a veterinarian. Look for a sagging over the tail head right before a goat gives birth using insight…

Trim goat hooves by securing the goat in an alley and then using hoof trimmers that will keep the feet level from the heel to the toe. Ensure that there is no excess hoof on either the inside or…

Goats can be trained to pull carts, be pack animals or do specialty tricks through repetitive training. Stay patient when training goats because it requires a lot of repetition and advice from a…

Show a 4-H goat in a show ring by using a chain instead of a collar and holding the goat with the right handle or a snap handle across the top of the goat. Help young people get experienced with…

Shave a goat for shows by washing the goat first and then using clippers that will leave a little bit of hair to protect the goat from the elements. Use smaller clippers to shave the head, ears and…

Choose a goat that has a well-structured body with legs set at the corners, a nice foot size, a deep body and easy movements. Decide what quality of goat you want to breed with tips from a livestock…

Goats need to be wormed often in warm, humid areas and less frequently in cooler, dryer areas of the country. De-worm goats with both clear and white de-wormers to successfully rid goats of pests with…

Dairy goats are useful for milk, meat, and compost, but entertainment is a key reason people enjoy goats. Learn to raise fun dairy goats from an organic farmer in this free dairy farming video.

Trim dairy goat hooves to flat surfaces on which they can build strong, stable hooves. Learn to trim dairy goat hooves from an organic farmer in this free dairy farming video.

Trim goat hooves to a flat surface, cutting away dead hoof matter, manure, and debris. Learn to trim dairy goat hooves from an organic farmer in this free dairy farming video.

If you must help dairy goats give birth, use sterile gloves and hold the shoulders of the newborn goat. Learn to deliver dairy goats from an organic farmer in this free dairy farming video.

If you have a desire to have at least a few head of goats on your farm or large property, you may wish to know ways which you can make money by owning goats. You may even decide that getting a lot of…

Pneumonia, a relatively common condition in goats, is an inflammation or infection of the lungs. Pneumonia can strike year-round, and the condition can affect entire herds if it is not properly…

Goats are intelligent creatures, and leading an individual goat to a certain area is simple enough. However, if you have a herd of any conceivable size, getting multiple goats to move in a certain…

There are six types of goats: pygmy, cashmere, Boer, dairy, Nigerian dwarf, and mountain. Goats are not self-sufficient, and require a lot of daily work to ensure their general care and well-being.…

Goats need a shelter which provides protection from sun, wind, rain and snow. It needs to be large enough to move around inside, yet small enough to keep warm with the animal's own body heat. It is…

Cloven hooves may get a bad rap on the devil, but they work just fine for prancing and dancing goats. Goat hooves adapted over time to be slightly angular and using only the front two toes and…

Goats have been domesticated from the wild goats of Eastern Europe and Asia. Female goats are known as nannies, males are called bucks or billies and the offspring are referred to as kids. Goats have…

Goats are some of the goofiest creatures. You can’t help but love their antics, their personalities and their ability to put up with just about anything as long as there is food involved. You…

Boer goats are a high quality animal mainly used for breeding. They're pricier than other breeds of goat because of their high quality genetic makeup. If you're interested in boer goats and you want…

Because an Angora goat's hair grows incredibly fast--approximately one inch per month--it is important that they be sheared every six months instead of the once yearly required for other types of wool…

All animals have an instinct to find shelter in inclement weather, and goats are no exception. They don't require an elaborate setup, unless you want to build one. Goats can get pneumonia if they are…

Having a goat for a pet is becoming more and more common. Goats are still considered farm animals, but goats are not just for farms anymore. Having a goat as a pet can be a fun experience, as long as…

In their natural habitat, the last thing goats have to worry about is their feet because walking and playing on rocks wears the hooves down, keeping them short and healthy. Goats that are raised…

Even though goats are born wild and may want to jump and run all day, there are ways to get them calmed down and ready to be a part of the farm. Knowing how to approach a goat and making sure that…

De-worming a goat is not as simple as other farm animals. There is no set schedule or de-wormer to give the goat. Goats are very susceptible to many harmful worms. Learn how to keep your goat free of…

Pygora goats are a cross-breed of Pygmy goats and Angora goats and are known for their soft, silky fleece which is ideal for hand-spinning. Creating craft projects with Pygora fibers is very popular…

The goat needs to go to the fair but it seems like a million miles between him standing there chewing his grass and the trailer you have to haul him in. You can turn that million miles into a few…

Goats are hilarious, curious and simply some of the coolest animals on the planet. They also can be a pain in the butt (pun intended) unless you’re aware of their nature. You can relate to…

It’s tiny, it’s braying and it’s covered in blood. It’s hard to imagine the squirmy newborn goat will ever be cute, but they truly are. Once you clean a newborn goat,…

When mastitis is detected in a goat through reliable tests or by visual means, treatment must follow, as in severe cases of mastitis the goat may succumb to death through systemic infection including…

Occasionally, you may need to catch a goat to administer medication, tend to a wound, move the goat or milk it. Generally, dairy goats will be easier to catch because they are used to being handled,…

Trimming a goat's horns is a task that requires some finesse and a little help. Goat horns are actually part of the goat's skull and have blood vessels within them, so you must take care not to injure…

A goat farm is a daily business-you won't get holidays or weekends off. But you will get the opportunity to be outdoors and enjoy working with animals. If you're prepared to put in the hard work, a…

Low in fat and calories, yet high in protein, goat is becoming a popular, healthy alternative to pork and beef. Follow these steps to a delicious roast goat.

Caring for a large herd of goats can be expensive and having to call a vet to give every vaccination can run even a well off farmer into bankruptcy. Knowing how to give your goat a shot is something…

Goats serve many purposes, whether they are used for meat, as pets, show animals and working animals. No matter what you use goats for, they must be vaccinated and cared for properly. Vaccines can…

When choosing a goat, decide how you'll be using the goat - for milk, meat or just to show.

Keeping your goat's hooves trimmed and clean will prevent disease and crippling. To trim hooves, you will need shears, a pocketknife, a rasp and a hoof pick.

Remember to have fun and smile. Your goat senses it if you are nervous or upset.

All cleaning and shaving of your goat can be done at home before the show. It is best to shave your goat a few days before the show to allow that "just cut" look to grow out.