Care of Newborn Nigerian Dwarf Goats

Nigerian dwarf goats are small milk goats, standing no more than 2 feet tall at the shoulders. These friendly goats tend to follow people around and play with each other frequently.

  1. After Birth Care

    • Gently wipe away any mucus on the baby goat's face that's left over from the birthing. Pay extra attention to cleaning the mouth and nose so that the baby can breathe. Tie the umbilical cord with dental floss if there is bleeding, and dip it in a 7 percent iodine solution. You won't have to cut it, as it falls off naturally.

    Shelter

    • It's often best to keep the baby and mother goat away from other goats after the baby has been born. Provide them with a large, dry enclosure with an elevated food area. Make sure they are bonding correctly, with no signs of aggression from the mother.

    Feeding

    • Newborn Nigerian dwarf goats should begin nursing right away. The mother goat's milk will provide ample nutrition until the goat is about one week old. At that point, the baby goat will begin supplementing the milk with regular foods, such as grass hay and grain, so make sure there is plenty of food readily available. Also, provide ample amounts of clean water.