How to Care for Boer Goats

Boer goats feature a red head and a wide body with white colorings. Depending on the lineage, the goat may also have white markings on the face. The goats came from parts of South Africa and several cultures now use the meat of the goat as a food source. Whether you keep the goats for butchering or raise the goats as pets, you need some basic care tips. Caring for Boer goats properly ensures the survival of the animals.

Things You'll Need

  • Water trough
  • Fresh water
  • Small shed/barn
  • Fence
  • Pasture
  • Fresh hay
  • Hay trough
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Instructions

    • 1

      Visit a veterinarian that specializes in livestock. Arrange for any inoculations or shots required for the breed. Boer goats must also have vaccinations and a dewormer, which removes any parasitic worms living in the goats' intestines. Vaccinations protect the goat against tetanus, rabies and other diseases.

    • 2

      Arrange a water trough near the goat's habitat and fill the trough with fresh water every day. The water trough should hold at least 2 gallons of water per goat. If you live in a warmer climate, then your goats may require up to 5 gallons of water ever day. Pour out any remaining water every morning and replace with fresh water. Keep an eye on the trough, removing any algae or debris that might fall in the water.

    • 3

      Build a shelter, such as a small shed or barn outside. Check the inside over carefully, looking for any drafts or holes and fix as necessary. Make sure that the goat has easy access inside and out of the shelter. Clear Creek Farms suggests an 8 foot by 13 foot shelter for the feeding and storage of a small herd, provided the herd has less than 10 goats. The shelter should have enough space for each goat without any bumping or crowding.

    • 4

      Place a fence around the pasture or grazing area for the goat. The type of fence required depends on predators in the surrounding area. An electrified fence is necessary if you have coyotes or other predators that might attack. A wood fence with an electric current or barbed wire around the top will keep the goats inside and keep predators outside.

    • 5

      Provide plenty of grass and vegetation for feeding. Fias Co Farm recommends a mixture of fescue, bluegrass, red clover, orchardgrass, ladino clover, alfalfa and lespedeza. The site suggests adding different plants and vegetation to the pasture, including rye grass, sheep's parsley, white clover, yarrow and chicory. The goats graze throughout the day, eating different amounts depending on age and health.

    • 6

      Feed Boer goats feed that combines protein and fiber, such as a mixture of whole corn and sunflower seeds. Bucks and female goats that bred need 1 pound of feed per day, while those that have not bred require 1 pound and 1 extra cup. Kids or baby goats should feed off their mother until they are 2 months old. After that, feed the kids 1 cup of grain three times throughout the day. Increase the amount of feed slightly if the goats are being raised for meat.