How to Clean a Goat's Nose

Goats are generally healthy animals, but you must watch out for signs of illness and infection. A goat's eyes should be bright and there should be no discharge from the animal's nose. You can clean a goat's nose if it is dirty or crusty, but remember, signs of persistent infection should be shown to a veterinarian in case the goat has a more serious condition. When a goat comes down with a cold, this can be treated without going to the vet. However, goats are susceptible to pneumonia so medical treatment should be sought if a cold shows signs of progressing.

Things You'll Need

  • Damp washcloth
  • Tub of warm water
  • Eucalyptus oil
  • Tea Tree oil
  • Lavender oil
  • Thyme oil
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Instructions

  1. Manual Cleaning

    • 1

      Make the goat comfortable in its enclosure, and ensure it is still and calm. Reassure the goat by stroking its head and talking to it. Stress can cause a sick goat's condition to worsen.

    • 2

      Wipe the goats nose with a warm, wet washcloth. Do this gently and do not scrub, because skin around the nasal area are soft. The cloth should not be dripping wet or the goat could become excessively wet and cold. Take time to work away any mucus or crust. Wet the cloth again from the tub of warm water if necessary.

    • 3

      Rub a little petroleum jelly on the goats nose to sooth soreness. Ensure that the jelly is well rubbed in so the goat won't eat it.

    Aromatherapy

    • 4

      Dilute eight drops of either eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, thyme oil or lavender oil, to 1 cup of warm water. Combine any of these oils if preferred, to total eight drops. The oils should help reduce congestion in the goats sinuses, allowing them to self clean.

    • 5

      Transfer the aromatic oil to a tub and place it in the goat's enclosure. Ensure the goat requiring the treatment is in a small enough enclosure to be able to breath the essential oils. There should still be ventilation, but not excessive amounts as to remove the scent.

    • 6

      Clean the goat's nose as described earlier. After one to two hours, the goat's sinuses should be clearer and excess mucus removal will be needed.