Instructions
Watch for changes in the goat's behavior. Goats going into labor will appear more restless than usual and will rise up and lie down several times. They may also pace, paw at the ground and attempt to lick or bite at their belly. Other signs include grinding their teeth, grunting, panting and going off by themselves instead of staying with the herd to hollow out a type of "nest" in the ground. Some goats may appear to be more friendly or more stand-offish than usual. Refusing to eat is another sign but is uncommon.
Check the goat's vaginal area for changes in appearance. Goats that are close to the time of birthing will exhibit a white vaginal discharge followed by clear mucus after the mucus plug is lost. The mucus may also appear to be tinged with blood. They may also walk around with their tail lifted up as the tail ligaments loosen. The vulva will appear to be swollen and the goat may also squat and urinate more than usual.
Check the mammary glands of the goat, also known as the udders. These will be found between the animal's hind legs. They are usually flabby and hang downward but just before birthing, the udders will begin to fill and appear swollen and shiny, pointing slightly outward instead of down. This usually occurs about a day before birthing in preparation to feed to new baby goat.
How to Tell When a Goat Is Having Her Babies?
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 Goat is also raised for it's soft, silky hair which is often used to make doll hair. Goats carry their babies for approximately 150 days and each animal may react to labor differently. However, there are still a few physical signs you can look for which will tell you when the goat is nearing her birthing time.