Pygmy goats
are herd animals; they should be raised with other goats.
Pygmy goats are hardy, good-natured and very small. The goats often are raised for pleasure as pets, but they also can provide ample milk as dairy goats. Pygmy goats can be raised for profit as well. They can be bred about once a year; they give birth to between one and four kids. Though they are hardy and adaptable, pygmy goat care requires to invest in special tools to care for the animals.
Socialization
Pygmy goats are herd animals. These goats should not be raised as solitary creatures. Fulfill their need for socialization by raising pygmy goats in pairs or a small herd. Pygmy goats also form strong attachments to humans. Spend time with your goats daily to win the devotion of your animal friends.
Pasture
All goats are browsers and grazers, which means they eat roughage like tree bark and shrubs as well as plain grass. Ideally, a pasture for pygmy goats should contain all these plants. Pygmy goats are small enough that their pasture can be an acre large or less. While the exact size of the pasture is not important, the goats should have enough room to run, jump, play, browse and graze.
Fencing and Shelter
Fencing around your goat's pasture should be 4 to 6 feet high. Choose a fencing type, such as hog wire, that is strong enough to keep your goats in and predators out. Provide some kind of shelter for your animals. Pygmy goats must be able to take cover in adverse weather. A small three or four-sided shed with sturdy walls to keep out the wind and a roof to keep them dry and warm is sufficient. Most pygmy goats will even happily make a home out of a large doghouse.
Nutrition
Pygmy goats should have access to fresh, clean water at all times. Provide water buckets in the goats' pasture and shelter. Dump out and replace the water regularly. Feed your pygmy goats good-quality alfalfa hay. Some owners feed hay twice a day while others "free feed," meaning they provide their goats with ample hay all day long. Adult pygmy goats should be fed about a half cup of grain specially designed for goats or grain with 14 to 16-percent protein content. Pregnant or nursing pygmy goats should be given one or two cups of grain per day.
Medical Care
Worms are a common parasite among goats that can be deadly if not treated or prevented. Pygmy goats should be wormed three or four times a year. Worm your pygmy goats as soon as they step foot on your land. Establish a regular worming schedule to keep them parasite-free and healthy. Ensure you have contact information for a veterinarian who can treat pygmy goats. If your pygmy goats need medical attention, don't hesitate to get in contact with your vet.
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