Goats have always been around since the ancient times. They are often raised in farms as source of milk, fiber, butter, and meat. Their skins and hairs were also collected and sold in markets. The male goat is often called a 'buck' while the female goat is called 'doe'. Until now, they are still classified as domesticated animals but some people adopt them as pets; exotic pets actually, for the fact that they are traditionally farm animals and are kept in herds. However, due to their being naturally curious and sociable, a great number of them end up as such nowadays and the idea on how to rear goats leave them an adventure rather than toil just like when they are raising wild animals and reptiles.
Indeed, there are people who are interested in raising goats as pets while some farmers do consider putting up a goat farm because of profitability. Whatever the intention is, every owner should understand that goats need proper care and nurturing. Below are basic characteristics of goats that be your pointers on how to raise goats.
1. Nutrition
Raising goats is not a very painstaking job as goats are not sensitive when it comes to food. They can chew on anything they find but one must be careful not to feed them wilted fruits as this may be poisonous to them. Basically, it would be best to prepare grasses and clean water for them to feed on. If a nightshade plant is also sprouting yonder, goats have to be taken away. Sometimes, they masticate on a tin can without swallowing just to test whether it is edible, and then drop it afterward.
2. Weather
They are susceptible to extreme weather conditions though. Leaving them cold and wet for long periods of time gives them the risk of acquiring pneumonia which often lead to death. Immediate treatment is a must at the first sign of sickness to prolong their life span. Normally, goats have 15 to 18 years life expectancy but there are cases that this increase with proper nutrition. This fact first and foremost would help you a lot if you are still in the stage of wondering how to raise goats.
3. Sociability and Behavior
Goats grow within a herd, which means that it is group animal. Thus isolating them would cause them depression. This condition could also be fatal. It would not be a problem to farmers as they intend to raise a flock. Pet owners can keep at least two to give each other a companion.
Just keep in mind these essential facts about them and you will be successful in your quest on how to raise goats. Raising goats is both an entertaining and lucrative venture with knowledge in following successful steps is actually required to rear healthy bucks and does.
Indeed, there are people who are interested in raising goats as pets while some farmers do consider putting up a goat farm because of profitability. Whatever the intention is, every owner should understand that goats need proper care and nurturing. Below are basic characteristics of goats that be your pointers on how to raise goats.
1. Nutrition
Raising goats is not a very painstaking job as goats are not sensitive when it comes to food. They can chew on anything they find but one must be careful not to feed them wilted fruits as this may be poisonous to them. Basically, it would be best to prepare grasses and clean water for them to feed on. If a nightshade plant is also sprouting yonder, goats have to be taken away. Sometimes, they masticate on a tin can without swallowing just to test whether it is edible, and then drop it afterward.
2. Weather
They are susceptible to extreme weather conditions though. Leaving them cold and wet for long periods of time gives them the risk of acquiring pneumonia which often lead to death. Immediate treatment is a must at the first sign of sickness to prolong their life span. Normally, goats have 15 to 18 years life expectancy but there are cases that this increase with proper nutrition. This fact first and foremost would help you a lot if you are still in the stage of wondering how to raise goats.
3. Sociability and Behavior
Goats grow within a herd, which means that it is group animal. Thus isolating them would cause them depression. This condition could also be fatal. It would not be a problem to farmers as they intend to raise a flock. Pet owners can keep at least two to give each other a companion.
Just keep in mind these essential facts about them and you will be successful in your quest on how to raise goats. Raising goats is both an entertaining and lucrative venture with knowledge in following successful steps is actually required to rear healthy bucks and does.
About the Author:
Are you searching for more tips on how to raise goats? Differentiate yourself from the usual goat owners who are prone to common mistakes. If you are interested to learn more tips on caring for goats and raising goats the proper way, click here: www.raising-goats.com