How to Wean Goat Kids Without Separating Them

Goat does should naturally wean their kids after two to three months.

Newborn goat kids rely on the nutrients and nourishment of their mother's milk for two to three months after birth. Though their reliance dwindles over time, some goat kids remain vigilant about their nursing habits. While most goat does naturally wean their kids after two to three months of nursing, some mothers -- particularly new doe mamas -- may require some assistance in the weaning process, especially if the mother and kid cannot be separated.

Things You'll Need

• Alfalfa hay
• Fresh water
• Goat bra or teat tape

Instructions

1. Provide plenty of nutritious feeding options about one week after the kid's birth, including grass and hay. Alfalfa hay is particularly beneficial, as it has a higher protein content than grass hay and aids in the muscle and bone development of the kid.

2. Keep the goats' living space stocked with plenty of fresh water. Change water buckets or troughs two to three times a day, ensuring that there is always a fresh and sanitary source of drinking water.

3. Feed the kids some grain food after about three to four weeks. Though it will take several days for the kids to understand that the grain is edible, you must remain vigilant in replacing it every day, even if it means throwing some grain out the first couple days.

4. Increase the amount of grass or hay and grain feeding options, as well as the amount of fresh water available to the kid after approximately eight weeks. At this time, the doe mother will likely begin her own natural weaning process, which includes slowly producing less and less milk, as well as headbutting or kicking her kids away from her udders when they try to overnurse.

Tips & Warnings

• If you do not notice the doe mother resisting her kids' attempts to nurse after eight weeks, consider equipping her with a goat bra or specialized udder tape for part of every day. Though designed to protect the doe's teats from potentially hazardous brush, these tools also prevent kids from nursing.

• Do not feed grain to male kids during the weaning process. Instead, rely solely upon high-protein hays such as alfalfa. Consuming grain too early in life can lead to potentially deadly urinary conditions in male goats.

References

• "How to Raise Goats"; Carol A. Amundson; 2008

Resources

• Hoegger Supply Company: Udder Support