# Goat Feeding by Production Stage: Gestation, Lactation, and Growth ## Key Takeaways - **Gestation Nutritional Demands:** Early gestation (first 100 days) requires a maintenance ration (10-12% crude protein), while late gestation (last 50 days) necessitates increased energy (120-150% of maintenance) and protein (12-14%) to support rapid fetal growth, with gradual grain introduction to prevent rumen upset. - **Lactation Energy Requirements:** Early lactation (first 8 weeks) is the most demanding period, requiring 150-250% of maintenance energy and 14-16% crude protein, with grain supplementation (1-2.5 lbs/doe/day) adjusted based on milk production and body condition to prevent excessive weight loss. - **Growing Kid Nutrition:** Young goats require a starter ration (16-18% crude protein) from two weeks of age via creep feed, transitioning to a grower ration (14-16% crude protein) post-weaning, focusing on muscle and bone development without excessive fat deposition to avoid urinary calculi. - **Body Condition Scoring (BCS) is Critical:** Regular BCS assessment (1-5 scale) at key stages (breeding, mid-gestation, kidding, weaning) is essential for objectively adjusting feed rations, with scores below 2.5 during lactation or below 2 at any stage indicating a need for increased energy and protein. - **Mineral and Water Management:** A goat-specific loose mineral supplement (avoiding sheep or cattle formulations due to copper imbalances) must be available free-choice at all stages, and clean, fresh water (1-2 gallons/day, more during lactation/heat) is paramount for feed intake and overall health. --- Feeding a goat correctly is not a single task but a series of adjustments that follow the animal through its productive life. A doe in early gestation has different nutritional needs than the same doe in late lactation, and a growing buckling requires a ration that supports skeletal development without excessive fat. This guide explains how to build a practical feeding program for each production stage, how to adjust rations as conditions change, and how to monitor body condition so you can correct problems before they become veterinary cases. It is written for small and mid sized producers, new goat keepers, and farm employees who handle daily feeding decisions. ## At a Glance - **Early gestation (first 100 days):** Feed a maintenance ration. Good quality hay or pasture plus a mineral supplement is usually enough. Do not overfeed grain. - **Late gestation (last 50 days):** Increase energy and protein gradually. The kids gain about 70 percent of their birth weight in the last trimester. Introduce grain slowly to avoid rumen upset. - **Early lactation (first 8 weeks):** This is the highest energy demand period. Feed quality forage free choice plus 1 to 2.5 pounds of grain per doe per day depending on milk production and body condition. - **Peak lactation:** Watch body condition closely. A thin doe needs more grain, a fat doe needs less. Adjust every two weeks. - **Late lactation and drying off:** Cut grain gradually, reduce milk production, and let the udder rest before the next gestation begins. - **Growing kids:** Feed a starter ration with 16 to 18 percent crude protein. Provide creep feed from two weeks of age. Do not let kids get fat, but do not restrict them so hard that growth stalls. - **[Body condition scoring](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/body-condition-scoring-a-tool-for-feed-management):** Learn to score goats on a 1 to 5 scale. Score every doe at breeding, at mid gestation, at kidding, and at weaning. Use the scores to adjust feed, not guesswork. - **Water:** Clean water must be available at all times. A goat drinks 1 to 2 gallons per day, more during lactation and hot weather. - **Minerals:** Offer a loose goat specific mineral free choice at all stages. Never use a cattle mineral that contains high copper levels, and never use a sheep mineral that lacks copper entirely. ## Understanding Goat Nutritional Needs by Stage Goats are ruminants, which means they have a four chamber stomach designed to digest forage. The rumen hosts microbes that break down fiber into volatile fatty acids, which the goat uses for energy. Protein is broken down into microbial protein, and B vitamins are synthesized in the rumen. This digestive system works best when the goat receives a consistent diet of quality forage. Sudden changes, high grain loads, or poor quality roughage can disrupt rumen function and lead to acidosis, bloat, or reduced feed intake. The nutritional requirements of a goat change dramatically across its production cycle. A mature doe that is not pregnant and not lactating needs only a maintenance ration. The same doe in early lactation may need two to three times more energy to support milk production. A growing kid needs a different balance of protein and energy than a mature animal. Feeding every animal the same ration at every stage is one of the most common and costly mistakes on small farms. The table below shows the general energy and protein needs at each stage. These are practical targets, not exact formulations. Actual needs vary with breed, body weight, milk production level, environmental temperature, and parasite load. | Production Stage | Energy Need Relative to Maintenance | Crude Protein Target (percent of diet DM) | Notes | |---|---|---|---| | Maintenance (dry, not pregnant) | 100 percent | 10 to 12 | Good hay or pasture is enough | | Early gestation (first 100 days) | 100 to 110 percent | 10 to 12 | Fetal growth is minimal | | Late gestation (last 50 days) | 120 to 150 percent | 12 to 14 | Fetal growth is rapid | | Early lactation (first 8 weeks) | 150 to 250 percent | 14 to 16 | Milk production peaks here | | Late lactation (after 8 weeks) | 120 to 150 percent | 12 to 14 | Milk production declines | | Growing kid (2 to 6 months) | 120 to 150 percent | 16 to 18 | Protein is critical for muscle and bone | These percentages refer to the total diet on a dry matter basis. A diet of 14 percent crude protein might come from good alfalfa hay alone, or from grass hay plus a protein supplement. You do not need to calculate dry matter percentages for every feeding, but you do need to understand what your forage provides and what your grain adds. ## Goat Gestation Feeding Gestation in goats lasts about 150 days, or roughly five months. The nutritional strategy differs sharply between the first 100 days and the last 50 days. Feeding the same ration throughout gestation is inefficient and can cause problems at kidding. ### Early Gestation: First 100 Days During the first 100 days, the developing kids are small. Fetal growth is minimal, and the nutritional demand on the doe is only slightly above maintenance. A doe in good body condition can be maintained on quality forage alone. Good grass hay, mixed legume grass hay, or quality pasture is sufficient. Grain is not needed and can cause the doe to gain excess condition. The main goal in early gestation is to maintain body condition, not to increase it. If a doe was thin at breeding, you can use early gestation to improve her condition gradually. Feed slightly better hay or add a small amount of grain, about 0.25 to 0.5 pounds per day, to bring her to a body condition score of 3 before the last trimester begins. If a doe was in good condition at breeding, do not add grain. Overconditioned does are more prone to kidding difficulties, fatty liver, and pregnancy toxemia. Continue to provide free choice minerals and clean water. Monitor body condition monthly during early gestation. A doe that is losing condition despite good forage may have a parasite load, dental problems, or a chronic disease. Address these issues before the last trimester, when the nutritional demands increase sharply. ### Late Gestation: Last 50 Days The last 50 days of gestation are the most critical feeding period before kidding. The kids gain about 70 percent of their birth weight during this time. The rumen is also being compressed by the growing uterus, which reduces the doe's appetite. She needs more energy and protein at the exact time she can physically eat less. This is why the diet must become more nutrient dense. Begin introducing grain gradually about six to eight weeks before the due date. Start with 0.25 pounds per doe per day and increase by 0.25 pounds every three to four days until the doe receives 0.5 to 1.5 pounds per day, depending on her size and condition. A large breed doe such as a Nubian or Saanen may need up to 1.5 pounds. A smaller breed such as a Nigerian Dwarf may need only 0.5 pounds. Split the grain into two feedings if the total is more than 1 pound per day. Choose a grain mix with 14 to 16 percent crude protein. A commercial goat pellet or a mix of cracked corn and soybean meal can work. Avoid all grain rations, as they can cause acidosis. The grain should supplement the forage, not replace it. Continue to offer quality hay free choice. Alfalfa hay is an excellent choice in late gestation. It is higher in protein and calcium than grass hay, and it provides the nutrients needed for fetal growth and colostrum production. If you feed grass hay, you may need to add a protein supplement such as soybean meal to meet the doe's needs. Watch for pregnancy toxemia, also called ketosis. This condition occurs when the doe cannot consume enough energy to meet the demands of the growing fetuses. The body mobilizes fat, which produces ketones that can be toxic. Does carrying twins or triplets are at higher risk. Signs include lethargy, loss of appetite, grinding teeth, and a sweet or fruity breath odor. Pregnancy toxemia is a medical emergency. Call a veterinarian immediately if you suspect it. ### Mineral and Vitamin Needs in Gestation A goat specific mineral mix should be available free choice throughout gestation. Goats need copper, selenium, zinc, and manganese in the correct balance. A mineral formulated for goats is the safest choice. Do not feed sheep minerals to goats, as sheep minerals typically contain no copper and goats require copper. Do not feed cattle minerals, as many contain levels of copper or other additives that are not appropriate for goats. Selenium is particularly important in areas with selenium deficient soils. A deficiency can cause white muscle disease in kids and poor reproductive performance in does. Your extension agent or veterinarian can advise on whether your area is selenium deficient and whether you need to supplement beyond the mineral mix. ### Feeding the Bred Yearling A yearling doe that is pregnant for the first time has the double demand of continuing her own growth while supporting fetal development. She needs a higher plane of nutrition than a mature doe. Feed her with the late gestation group during the last trimester, and continue to feed grain through early lactation. Do not let a first freshener lose excessive body condition. She needs to grow and milk at the same time, which is a significant nutritional challenge. Consider keeping first fresheners separate from mature does so they are not pushed away from the feeder. Give them priority access to quality forage and their grain ration. ## Goat Lactation Feeding Lactation is the most nutritionally demanding period in a doe's production cycle. A high producing dairy doe can produce 1 to 2 gallons of milk per day at peak lactation. That milk contains significant amounts of energy, protein, calcium, and phosphorus. If the doe does not consume enough of these nutrients, she will mobilize them from her own body, leading to weight loss, poor milk production, and increased risk of metabolic disease. ### The First 24 to 48 Hours After Kidding Immediately after kidding, the doe needs fresh water and good quality forage. She may be tired and thirsty. Offer warm water with molasses if she seems reluctant to drink. Do not offer grain immediately. The rumen has been compressed and the digestive system needs time to adjust. Start with small amounts of grain on the second or third day after kidding, and increase gradually over the next week. Colostrum production begins before kidding and continues for the first 24 to 48 hours. The doe needs adequate energy and protein to produce quality colostrum. This is another reason why late gestation feeding matters. A doe that is thin at kidding will produce lower quality colostrum and less milk. ### Early Lactation: First 8 Weeks Early lactation is the period of peak milk production. The doe's energy needs can be two to three times her maintenance requirement. She will lose body condition during this period, especially in the first month. Some weight loss is normal and expected. The goal is to minimize excessive loss and to support high milk production. Feed quality forage free choice. Alfalfa hay or a high quality mixed legume grass hay is ideal. The forage provides fiber, protein, and calcium. Offer 1 to 2.5 pounds of grain per doe per day, split into two or three feedings. The exact amount depends on milk production, forage quality, and body condition. A good rule of thumb for dairy goats is to feed 1 pound of grain for every 3 to 4 pounds of milk produced above the first 2 to 3 pounds. For example, a doe producing 8 pounds of milk per day might receive 1.5 to 2 pounds of grain. A meat or fiber doe producing less milk needs less grain. Adjust based on body condition. A doe that is losing excessive condition needs more grain. A doe that is holding condition well may need less. The grain ration should contain 14 to 16 percent crude protein. Commercial dairy goat pellets are formulated for this purpose. If you mix your own grain, include a protein source such as soybean meal to bring the protein level up. Do not feed a straight corn ration, as it is too low in protein and can cause acidosis. ### Peak Milk Production and Body Condition Milk production typically peaks at four to eight weeks after kidding. This is the time when the doe's energy demand is highest and her body condition loss is most rapid. Monitor body condition every two weeks during this period. A doe that drops more than one full body condition score is losing too much condition and needs more energy in her diet. If a doe is milking heavily and losing condition, increase her grain gradually. Add 0.25 pounds every three to four days until she stabilizes. If she is holding condition well and producing good milk, do not increase the grain. Overfeeding grain can cause the doe to gain excess condition, which reduces milk production and increases the risk of metabolic problems. Always provide free choice minerals during lactation. Calcium and phosphorus are critical for milk production. A deficiency can cause milk fever, also called hypocalcemia, especially in high producing does. Goat specific minerals are formulated to provide these nutrients in the correct balance. ### Water Intake During Lactation Water is the most important nutrient for a lactating doe. Milk is about 87 percent water. A doe producing 8 pounds of milk per day needs to drink an additional 3 to 4 gallons of water just to support milk production, on top of her maintenance needs. Provide clean, fresh water at all times. In cold weather, consider warming the water or breaking ice twice daily. A doe that does not drink enough will reduce milk production and may develop constipation or other health problems. ### Late Lactation: After 8 Weeks After peak lactation, milk production begins to decline gradually. The doe's nutritional needs decrease along with her milk output. You can begin to reduce grain gradually at this point. Cut the grain ration by 0.25 pounds every one to two weeks, monitoring body condition and milk production. The goal in late lactation is to maintain body condition and to prepare the doe for drying off. If the doe is thin, you can use this period to help her regain condition before the next gestation. If she is in good condition, continue to reduce grain and rely more on forage. ### Drying Off Drying off is the process of stopping milk production before the next kidding. This is typically done 60 days before the next due date to give the udder time to rest and regenerate. To dry off a doe, reduce grain feeding gradually over one to two weeks. Reduce the milking frequency from twice daily to once daily, then to every other day, then stop completely. Do not stop milking abruptly, as this can cause udder engorgement, mastitis, and discomfort. Reduce the grain ration as milk production declines. Some producers reduce water intake for a day or two during drying off, but this is not recommended as it can stress the doe. Instead, reduce grain and allow the udder to gradually fill and reabsorb milk. Once the udder has dried off, the doe can be moved to a maintenance ration. She will enter early gestation of the next pregnancy, and her nutritional needs will be similar to those described for early gestation. ## Goat Growing Ration for Kids and Young Stock Growing kids have different nutritional needs than mature goats. They are building bone, muscle, and body mass. Protein is the most critical nutrient for growth. Energy is also important, but excess energy without adequate protein leads to fat deposition rather than muscle growth. ### The First Weeks of Life For the first 24 to 48 hours, kids need colostrum. Colostrum provides antibodies, energy, and essential nutrients. A kid should receive colostrum within the first 6 hours of life, ideally within the first hour. The amount needed is about 10 percent of body weight in the first 24 hours, split into several feedings. For a kid weighing 8 pounds, that is about 0.8 pounds or roughly 12 ounces of colostrum in the first day. After the colostrum period, kids can be raised on their mother's milk or on milk replacer. If the doe is milking well and the kid is nursing, the kid will receive adequate nutrition. If you are bottle feeding, use a quality goat milk replacer and follow the label directions. Do not use cow milk replacer, as it has a different fat and protein profile than goat milk. Milk feeding continues for 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the production system. Dairy kids are often weaned earlier, at 6 to 8 weeks, while meat and fiber kids may nurse longer. The weaning age depends on the kid's weight and rumen development. ### Creep Feeding Creep feeding is the practice of offering solid feed to kids while they are still nursing. This helps develop the rumen and prepares the kid for weaning. Start creep feeding at 1 to 2 weeks of age. Offer a high quality starter feed with 16 to 18 percent crude protein. A commercial goat starter pellet is the simplest option. You can also offer high quality alfalfa hay and a small amount of grain. Place the creep feeder where the kids can access it but the does cannot. This allows the kids to eat without competition from adult goats. Keep the creep feeder clean and filled with fresh feed. Kids will begin to nibble at the feed within a few days, and consumption will increase as they grow. ### Weaning Weaning is the transition from a milk based diet to a solid feed diet. This is a stressful period for kids, and it is important to manage it carefully. Wean kids when they are eating a significant amount of solid feed, typically 0.5 to 1 pound per day. This usually occurs at 6 to 10 weeks of age, depending on breed and management. Wean gradually over 7 to 10 days. Reduce the number of milk feedings per day and increase the amount of solid feed. Monitor the kids for weight loss or signs of stress. A mild setback is normal, but significant weight loss indicates the kid was not ready for weaning. At weaning, kids should have access to quality forage and a starter ration. Continue the starter feed until the kids reach 3 to 4 months of age, then gradually transition to a grower ration. ### Growing Ration for Weaned Kids From weaning to about 6 months of age, kids need a ration with 14 to 16 percent crude protein. The exact protein level depends on the growth rate you are targeting. A meat kid destined for market at 6 to 8 months needs a higher protein ration than a replacement doe that can grow more slowly. A typical growing ration includes: - Quality forage free choice. Alfalfa hay or a high quality mixed legume grass hay is ideal. - 0.5 to 1.5 pounds of grain per kid per day, depending on age and growth target. - Free choice goat minerals. - Clean water at all times. The grain can be a commercial goat grower pellet or a mix of corn, oats, and soybean meal. The protein level should be 14 to 16 percent. Do not feed an all corn ration, as it is too low in protein and can cause digestive upset. ### Growth Monitoring Monitor growing kids regularly. Weigh them monthly if possible, or use a heart girth tape to estimate weight. A healthy kid should gain 0.25 to 0.5 pounds per day, depending on breed and genetics. Breed and body condition score monthly. Kids should be growing and gaining condition, but not getting fat. Overconditioned kids are at higher risk for urinary calculi, especially males. Urinary calculi are stones that form in the urinary tract and can cause a life threatening blockage. A diet that is too high in grain and too low in forage, or one with an improper calcium to phosphorus ratio, increases the risk. Feed a balanced ration with adequate forage and a goat specific mineral. Do not feed grain free choice to growing kids. ### Feeding Replacement Does Replacement doelings should be fed to grow steadily but not excessively. The goal is to have them at 60 to 70 percent of mature body weight at breeding age, which is typically 7 to 10 months for most breeds. A doeling that is too small at breeding may have difficulty kidding. A doeling that is too fat may have reduced fertility. Feed replacement doelings the same growing ration as other kids, but monitor their condition closely. If a doeling is gaining too much condition, reduce the grain. If she is falling behind, increase it. The goal is a body condition score of 3 at breeding. ### Feeding Growing Bucks Bucks have different nutritional needs than does. They grow larger and have a higher lean body mass. A growing buck needs a ration with 14 to 16 percent crude protein, similar to a growing doeling. However, bucks tend to gain fat more easily if overfed, and they are at higher risk for urinary calculi. Feed growing bucks a forage based ration with a moderate amount of grain. Provide free choice minerals formulated for goats, and ensure the calcium to phosphorus ratio in the total diet is at least 1.5 to 1. Do not feed extra minerals or supplements that are high in phosphorus. Monitor bucks for signs of urinary calculi, including straining to urinate, kicking at the belly, and reduced appetite. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate veterinary attention. ## Body Condition Scoring and Monitoring Body condition scoring is the single most useful tool for managing [goat nutrition](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-nutrition-basics-essential-nutrients-feeding-management). It is a hands on method of assessing the fat and muscle cover over the goat's spine and ribs. A consistent scoring system allows you to track changes in condition over time and adjust feeding before problems develop. ### How to Body Condition Score The standard scale for goats is 1 to 5, with 1 being emaciated and 5 being obese. A score of 3 is ideal for most goats at most stages of production. To score a goat, stand behind it and place your hands on its spine. You are feeling for the vertebrae and the fat cover around them. Use your fingers to feel the spinous processes, which are the points of the vertebrae, and the transverse processes, which are the bones that extend sideways from the spine. - **Score 1 (Emaciated):** The vertebrae are sharp and prominent. You can easily feel each bone with little or no fat cover. The goat appears bony and weak. - **Score 2 (Thin):** The vertebrae are still prominent but have a thin layer of fat. You can feel the individual bones but they are not sharp. The goat appears lean. - **Score 3 (Moderate):** The vertebrae are smooth and rounded. You can feel the bones but they are covered with a moderate layer of fat. The goat appears well fleshed. - **Score 4 (Fat):** The vertebrae are difficult to feel. The fat cover is thick and the spine appears flat. The goat appears heavy. - **Score 5 (Obese):** The vertebrae cannot be felt. The fat cover is very thick and the spine appears depressed. The goat appears very heavy and may have fat deposits over the tail head and udder. Practice scoring goats on a regular basis. Ask an experienced producer or your veterinarian to score the same goats so you can calibrate your assessment. ### When to Score Score every mature doe at these key points: - At breeding or when the buck is turned in - At mid gestation, about 75 days after breeding - At kidding - At weaning or when the kids are removed - At drying off Score growing kids monthly. Score bucks at breeding season and at the end of the breeding season. ### Using Body Condition Scores to Adjust Feeding The body condition score tells you whether your feeding program is working. Use it to make adjustments: - **Score 1 or 2:** The goat is too thin. Increase the energy and protein in the diet. Add grain, feed better quality forage, and check for parasites or other health problems. - **Score 3:** The goat is in ideal condition. Maintain the current feeding program. - **Score 4 or 5:** The goat is too fat. Reduce the grain and rely more on forage. Increase exercise if possible. Do not put a fat goat on a starvation diet, but reduce energy gradually. During lactation, some weight loss is expected. A doe that drops from a score of 3 at kidding to a score of 2.5 at peak lactation is within normal range. A doe that drops to a score of 2 or below needs more energy in her diet. A doe that maintains or gains condition during early lactation is likely being overfed and may not be milking to her potential. ### Recordkeeping Keep a simple record for each doe. A notebook or spreadsheet with columns for the date, the doe's tag or name, her body condition score, her weight if available, and any notes about feed changes or health issues is sufficient. Record the date of breeding, the expected kidding date, and the actual kidding date. Record milk production if you are milking. These records allow you to see patterns over time and to make informed decisions about feeding and culling. ## Common Feeding Mistakes Several feeding mistakes are common on goat farms. Recognizing and avoiding them will improve herd health and productivity. ### Overfeeding Grain Grain is a valuable tool for meeting energy needs during lactation and late gestation, but it is easy to overfeed. Too much grain causes acidosis, a condition where the rumen pH drops and the microbial population is disrupted. Symptoms include reduced appetite, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases, laminitis and death. Overfeeding grain also makes goats fat, which reduces fertility and increases the risk of kidding problems. Feed grain in measured amounts, not free choice. Split the grain into two or more feedings if the total is more than 1 pound per day. Introduce grain gradually over at least two weeks. Never increase the grain suddenly. ### Underfeeding During Late Gestation The last 50 days of gestation are critical. A doe that does not receive enough energy during this period is at risk for pregnancy toxemia, poor colostrum quality, and weak kids. Many producers make the mistake of treating late gestation like early gestation and feeding only forage. This is not enough for does carrying multiple kids. Begin grain feeding at least six weeks before the due date. Monitor body condition and adjust the grain as needed. A doe that is losing condition in late gestation needs more grain, not less. ### Feeding Poor Quality Forage Forage is the foundation of the goat diet. Poor quality hay, moldy hay, or hay that is too mature has low digestibility and low nutrient content. Goats will eat it, but they will not thrive on it. Invest in good quality hay. It should be green, leafy, and free of mold and dust. Have your hay tested if possible, so you know its protein and energy content. ### Ignoring Minerals Minerals are essential for reproduction, growth, and health. A goat that does not receive adequate minerals will have poor fertility, weak kids, and increased susceptibility to disease. Provide a goat specific mineral mix free choice at all times. Check the mineral feeder regularly to ensure it is full and the mineral is fresh. Do not assume that the goats are getting enough minerals from forage alone. ### Not Adjusting for Parasites Internal parasites, especially barber pole worms, are a major cause of poor condition and production in goats. A goat that is losing condition despite adequate feed may have a parasite load. Monitor fecal egg counts regularly and deworm selectively based on the results. Work with your veterinarian or extension agent to develop a parasite management program. Do not deworm on a fixed schedule, as this leads to drug resistance. ### Feeding the Same Ration to All Goats Goats at different production stages have different nutritional needs. Feeding the same ration to a dry doe, a lactating doe, and a growing kid will result in some animals being overfed and others underfed. Group goats by production stage if possible. At minimum, separate the lactating does and the growing kids from the dry does and bucks. ## Decision Thresholds: When to Change the Ration Knowing when to change the ration is as important as knowing what to feed. Use these thresholds as a guide: - **Body condition score drops below 2.5 during lactation:** Increase grain by 0.25 to 0.5 pounds per day. Monitor for two weeks and reassess. - **Body condition score drops below 2 at any stage:** Increase energy and protein immediately. Check for parasites and other health problems. Consider a veterinary examination. - **Body condition score rises above 3.5 during lactation:** Reduce grain by 0.25 to 0.5 pounds per day. The doe may be producing less milk than expected. - **Body condition score rises above 4 at any stage:** Reduce grain and increase exercise. A very fat goat is at risk for metabolic disease. - **Milk production drops unexpectedly:** Check feed intake, water availability, and body condition. A sudden drop may indicate illness, mastitis, or a feed problem. - **Kid growth rate falls below 0.25 pounds per day:** Increase the protein or energy in the growing ration. Check for parasites and other health problems. These thresholds are starting points. Adjust them based on your experience with your herd and your production goals. ## When to Call a Veterinarian or Extension Agent Most feeding problems can be managed with careful observation and adjustment. Some situations require professional help. Call a veterinarian immediately if you see: - **Pregnancy toxemia:** Lethargy, loss of appetite, grinding teeth, sweet breath odor in a late gestation doe. - **Milk fever:** Weakness, staggering, muscle tremors, or recumbency in a lactating doe. - **Urinary calculi:** Straining to urinate, kicking at the belly, or a blocked urethra in a buck or wether. This is a life threatening emergency. - **Acidosis:** Severe diarrhea, lethargy, or collapse after a sudden increase in grain. - **Mastitis:** A hot, swollen, or painful udder, or abnormal milk. - **Prolonged anorexia:** A goat that refuses to eat for more than 24 hours. Call your extension agent for help with: - Forage testing and ration balancing - Parasite management and fecal egg counting - Mineral supplementation in your area - Developing a feeding program for your specific herd - Interpreting body condition scores Your extension agent can also connect you with local resources, feed testing laboratories, and educational programs. ## Seasonal Feeding Considerations Seasonal changes affect goat nutrition in several ways. In hot weather, goats eat less and drink more. Milk production may decline. Provide shade and cool water. Feed during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning and evening. In cold weather, goats need more energy to maintain body temperature. Increase the forage and consider adding a small amount of grain. Provide shelter from wind and wet conditions. Pasture quality varies with the season. Spring pasture is high in protein and energy. Summer pasture is lower in quality, especially if it is mature and dry. Fall pasture may be high in sugars, which can cause bloat or acidosis if goats are turned onto it suddenly. Winter pasture is often dormant and provides little nutrition. Adjust your feeding program to match the pasture conditions. ## Feeding Equipment and Management The way you deliver feed is as important as what you feed. Use feeders that reduce waste and prevent contamination. Hay racks and hay feeders should be designed so goats cannot climb on them or soil the hay with manure. Grain feeders should have openings that allow the goats to eat but prevent them from spilling the grain. Clean feeders regularly. Remove old feed and manure. Scrub grain feeders with a mild disinfectant between uses. Do not feed on the ground, as this increases the risk of parasite transmission and disease. Provide enough feeder space so all goats can eat at the same time. A general rule is 12 to 18 inches of feeder space per adult goat. [Dominant](/blog/careers/dominant-definition-biology) goats will push subordinate goats away from the feeder, so ensure that timid goats have access to feed. ## Water Quality and Availability Water is the most essential nutrient. A goat can survive longer without feed than without water. Provide clean, fresh water at all times. Check water containers daily and clean them regularly. In winter, check for ice and break it or provide heated waterers. In summer, check that the water is not too hot or algae covered. A mature goat drinks 1 to 2 gallons of water per day. A lactating doe may drink 3 to 4 gallons or more. Growing kids drink less, but they still need constant access to clean water. Goats prefer clean water and will drink less if the water is dirty or stale. Reduced water intake leads to reduced feed intake and reduced production. ## Putting It All Together: A Sample Feeding Calendar Here is a sample feeding calendar for a spring kidding herd in a temperate climate. Adjust the dates and amounts for your specific conditions. **September (Breeding):** Does are at maintenance. Provide good quality hay or pasture. Body condition score all does. Thin does should be separated and fed better forage or a small amount of grain to improve condition before winter. **October to December (Early Gestation):** Continue maintenance feeding. Monitor body condition monthly. Provide free choice minerals and clean water. Does should enter winter at a body condition score of 3. **January to February (Late Gestation):** Begin grain feeding six weeks before the expected kidding date. Start at 0.25 pounds per doe per day and increase gradually to 0.5 to 1.5 pounds. Switch to higher quality hay, such as alfalfa or a legume grass mix. Monitor for pregnancy toxemia. **March (Kidding):** At kidding, offer fresh water and good quality hay. Begin grain on the second or third day after kidding. Increase grain gradually over the first week. Ensure kids receive colostrum within the first 6 hours. **April to May (Early Lactation):** Feed quality forage free choice and 1 to 2.5 pounds of grain per doe per day, split into two feedings. Monitor body condition every two weeks. Adjust grain as needed. Provide free choice minerals and clean water. **June to July (Late Lactation):** Milk production begins to decline. Reduce grain gradually. Monitor body condition. Does that are thin can be kept on a higher grain ration to regain condition. **August (Drying Off):** Dry off does 60 days before the next kidding. Reduce grain and milking frequency gradually. Once dry, move does to a maintenance ration. **Ongoing:** Body condition score at every key point. Check water daily. Check mineral feeders weekly. Monitor for parasites and deworm selectively based on fecal egg counts. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How much grain should I feed a pregnant goat? In early gestation, most does need no grain at all. Quality forage is sufficient. In late gestation, during the last 50 days, start with 0.25 pounds per doe per day and increase gradually to 0.5 to 1.5 pounds per day, depending on the doe's size and condition. A large breed doe may need up to 1.5 pounds. A small breed may need only 0.5 pounds. Split the grain into two feedings if the total is more than 1 pound. ### Can I feed my goats only hay and no grain? Yes, for maintenance and early gestation. A dry doe in good condition can thrive on quality hay alone. However, lactating does, late gestation does, and growing kids need more energy and protein than hay alone can provide. Grain is a convenient way to add those nutrients. Alfalfa hay can meet many of the needs of a lactating doe, but most producers still add some grain to support peak milk production. ### What is the best feed for lactating dairy goats? A combination of quality forage and a balanced grain ration is best. Feed alfalfa hay or a high quality legume grass mix free choice. Offer 1 to 2.5 pounds of a 14 to 16 percent crude protein grain per doe per day, split into two feedings. Adjust the amount based on milk production and body condition. Provide free choice goat minerals and clean water at all times. ### How long should I creep feed goat kids? Start creep feeding at 1 to 2 weeks of age and continue until weaning. Wean kids at 6 to 10 weeks of age when they are eating 0.5 to 1 pound of solid feed per day. After weaning, continue feeding a starter ration until the kids reach 3 to 4 months of age, then gradually transition to a grower ration. ### What protein percentage do growing goats need? Growing kids need 16 to 18 percent crude protein in their starter ration. After weaning, a growing ration with 14 to 16 percent crude protein is appropriate. The exact level depends on the growth rate you are targeting. Meat kids destined for early market need higher protein. Replacement doelings can grow more slowly on a slightly lower protein ration. ### How do I know if my goat is too thin or too fat? Use body condition scoring on a 1 to 5 scale. A score of 3 is ideal. Score 1 is emaciated, score 2 is thin, score 4 is fat, and score 5 is obese. Feel the goat's spine and ribs. If the bones are sharp and prominent with little fat cover, the goat is too thin. If the bones are difficult to feel under a thick fat layer, the goat is too fat. Score your goats regularly and adjust feeding based on the results. ### What causes pregnancy toxemia in goats? Pregnancy toxemia is caused by inadequate energy intake during late gestation. The doe cannot consume enough energy to meet the demands of the growing fetuses, so her body mobilizes fat. This produces ketones, which can be toxic. Does carrying twins or triplets are at higher risk, as are does that are too thin or too fat. Prevention involves feeding an adequate energy ration during the last 50 days of gestation and maintaining proper body condition throughout pregnancy. ### Should I give my goats extra minerals during lactation? Yes. Lactation places high demands on calcium and phosphorus. Provide a goat specific mineral mix free choice at all times. Do not use sheep minerals, which lack copper, or cattle minerals, which may have inappropriate copper levels. Your extension agent or veterinarian can help you choose the right mineral for your area. ## Related Farming Guides This section will be populated with links to related farming guides on goat health, reproduction, pasture management, and parasite control. Check back for updates or browse the site for additional resources on goat production. ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Goat Breeding Season Planning: Timing, Nutrition, and Health Checks](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-breeding-season-planning) * [Alfalfa Hay for Goats: Feeding Decisions and Mineral Context](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/alfalfa-hay-for-goats-feeding-decisions-and-mineral-context) * [Goat Fiber Production: Cashmere and Mohair Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-fiber-production-cashmere-mohair-management) ## References - American Consortium for [Small Ruminant Parasite Control](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/food-animal-medicine/small-ruminant-parasite-control-diagnostic-strategies-anthelmintic-stewardship) (ACSRPC): https://www.wormx.info/ - USDA APHIS Goat Health: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/sheep-goats - FAO Sheep and Goat Production: https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/ - FAO Animal Production and Health: https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/ - WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health): https://www.woah.org/en/home/ > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.