How to Take Care of Pigmy Goats

Pygmy goats are one of the few animals classified as livestock that can be great pets, too. Their small stature, gregarious nature and smart-as-a-whip intelligence means they're fun for everyone in the family. They're also practical pets, keeping overgrown lawns and weed patches in check.

Things You'll Need

• Solid fences
• Objects to climb on
• Small barn, shed or large dog houses
• Hay and straw
• Buckets

Instructions

1. Keep pygmy goats with their friends. Goats are herding animals so they feel safe and happy when they are grouped with at least one other goat.

2. Shelter pygmy goats in a small barn or goat shed. They don't require a lot of space and several pygmy goats can occupy one standard sized loose-box horse stall. Because goats are quite athletic, make sure stall rails are high enough so the goat can't jump over them. A door from the stall to a small outdoor sun pen will keep them entertained during the day, and a soft straw bed inside will keep them warm and cozy at night. Some people even use large dog houses as shelter, within a fenced paddock area.

3. Eating is a goat ritual. In addition to the forage they find when touring their paddocks or enclosures, they will eat anything from cookies to vegetables. Of course, they need proper nutrients. Pygmy goats like a mixture of alfalfa and grass hays. Hay provides protein and fiber. They should be fed twice a day. Keep grains such as barley, oats, corn and beans to a minimum, less than a handful a day. Commercial goat food is also available in feed stores. Fresh water should be readily available in a clean bucket tied to the stall or from an automatic waterer.

4. Entertain pygmy goats by giving them obstacles to play on. They love to climb on tables, boulders, boxes and anything else that's elevated.

5. Practice preventative medical care by bringing in a vet regularly. Pygmy goats should receive vaccinations and be de-wormed annually.

6. Check enclosure fences daily for damage. Curious goats will often find the weak spot in the fence and play with it until they set themselves free. Although it's uglier than other fencing options, chain link works best with goats. It's sturdy, they can't get their heads stuck in it and they're not likely to jump over it.

Tips & Warnings

• Pygmy goats are so clever they respond to their own names.

Resources

• Pygmy Goat Care
• James Farm