How to Raise Meat Goats Without Using Grain

It is critical that meat goats get proper nutrition to thrive. Grain provides nutritional benefits when used in a limited way, but most goats can receive adequate nutrition from other sources. Young goats, mature goats and those who are lactating need grain to meet their nutritional needs and remain strong and healthy; for the other goats you can take steps to ensure that your goats live happy lives without grain.

Things You'll Need

  • Hay
  • Protein supplement
  • Loose minerals
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Instructions

    • 1

      Allow your goats to roam in a pasture that has plenty of long grass for them to eat. Goats need a lot of fiber in their diets and grass provides this, as well as most of their daily nutritional needs.

    • 2

      Provide nutritionally sound hay for your goats every day. The hay should be the same quality that horses eat. The amount of hay will depend on the amount of pasture grass available for the goats to eat. In winter months the amount of hay will be higher than the summer.

    • 3

      Give your goats loose minerals made specifically for goats. Leave the loose minerals out for the goats to eat when they choose to do so.

    • 4

      Leave a molasses-based protein block or tub from which your goats can eat as they desire. Choose one that does not have minerals added to it; those additives can prevent absorption and your goats already are being provided with loose minerals. Choose a protein supplement that does not contain urea.