How to Mix Goat Milk Replacer

If you have a goat kid that is unable to nurse for some reason, you will need to mix goat milk replacer to provide the proper nutrition for the kid. There are numerous commercially available goat milk replacers and countless recipes for homemade replacers. The primary concerns are nutrients provided, temperature of the milk and quantity of milk given. However, with diligent attention, many goat kids have been bottle fed hand mixed milk replacer and have gone on to thrive as adults.

Things You'll Need

  • Powdered or frozen concentrate goat milk replacer
  • Warm water
  • Mixing utensils
  • Bottles
  • Nipples
  • Bottle brushes
  • Dish soap or other cleaning disinfectant
  • Protective cover
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Instructions

    • 1

      Obtain the necessary supplies before you have a crisis situation on your hands. Purchase frozen or powdered goat milk replacer, bottles, nipples, bottle brushes and any other supplements or kidding supplies approximately one month before your doe is due to give birth. Read the usage instructions for all these things and if necessary, practice using them so that you will be able to perform well in a dark barn or during distracting circumstances.

    • 2

      Review the specific directions for mixing the goat milk replacer you have selected well in advance of possible need. Remove the label carefully, clearly mark the container, and take the label to a copy machine where you can make a larger copy of both the mixing instructions and the usage quantity charts so that you are not left squinting in the dark with a distressed doe and a weakening kid depending on your ability to correctly decipher the tiny print at a moment's notice. Have this information laminated, which can be done at many copy stores, if you plan to leave it in the barn as a ready reference. Glue or tape the label back onto the bottle.

    • 3

      Mix only the amount of milk replacer you will use in a 24-hour period, or shorter interval if recommended by your replacer's manufacturer. Mix all of the directed amount of replacer powder or concentrate with approximately half of the total amount of water recommended. Add the rest of the water needed to bring the total amount up to the recommended volume after you have the first portion completely dissolved.

    • 4

      Use a spoon for mixing small amounts but consider purchasing one of the plunger style, powdered milk mixing pitchers if you have to mix larger quantities at one time. Stir rather than shake the mixture since shaking may leave undissolved product in the bottom of your container or floating on the top. Consult your veterinarian regarding whether to feed warm or cold mixed replacer, but in most cases with younger kids, warm is used.

    • 5

      Practice thorough sanitation with all of your goat milk replacer mixing and feeding equipment. Wash with hot, soapy water and rinse completely. Allow to dry in a sanitary environment and cover stored equipment to avoid accidental contamination. Follow the manufacturer's instructions that came with your milk replacer regarding storage of excess that will be fed out over the next few hours. Never feed replacer that has sat beyond the recommended time once it has been prepared, the nutrients will begin to degrade and unhealthy bacteria may begin to grow.