How to Give Goats Mineral Oil
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 as something it is supposed to swallow, causing the goat to inhale, possibly leading to aspiration. There are two methods by which mineral oil can be administered to goats without danger of choking; the oil can be flavored so that the goats will know to swallow it, or it can be administered through the use of a soft stomach tube.
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Instructions
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Flavoring the Mineral Oil
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1
Measure out the mineral oil, using 6 to 8 fluid oz. of oil for adult goats and 2 to 4 fluid oz. for kids.
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2
Add a small amount of powdered ginger to the oil, as ginger can be used to sooth the stomach and intestines of goats as well. Use approximately 1 tsp. of ginger for kids, or up to 3 tsp. for adult goats.
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3
Mix the mineral oil and ginger thoroughly, then place the mixture into a drench gun.
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4
Drench the goat's mouth, watching for signs that they are swallowing the mineral oil and ginger mixture. If they do not swallow, you will have to give them the mineral oil via a stomach tube.
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5
Walk the goat, massaging its flanks regularly. This will help to relieve the pressure of bloating while the mineral oil has a chance to work.
Using a Stomach Tube
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Restrain or otherwise secure the goat, making sure not to place additional pressure on the goat's already bloated stomach.
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Lubricate the stomach tube with lavender oil or another gentle oil.
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Insert the tube carefully into the goat's mouth, guiding it down the throat and into the stomach. Gas will vent through the tube once it enters the stomach, providing a bit of immediate relief to the goat before the mineral oil is applied.
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Pour the mineral oil into the tube slowly, administering 6 to 8 fluid oz. for adults or 1 to 2 fluid oz. for kids.
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Remove the tube, then release the goat. Walk the goat and massage its flanks while the mineral oil begins working.
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Tips & Warnings
Mineral oil should be used instead of vegetable oil, since mineral oil can't be digested by goats. Using vegetable oil adds additional digestible material to the goat's stomach and has the potential to make bloating worse.
If a goat is bloated, take the condition seriously. Contact a veterinarian who has experience working with farm animals as soon as you notice the signs of bloat so that he can provide emergency medical care if needed.
