The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Goats => Topic started by: Anke on December 20, 2010, 06:41:06 am

Title: Goats out on frosty grass
Post by: Anke on December 20, 2010, 06:41:06 am

I have seen now quite a few pictures of goats here that are out grazing on frosted grass. All my goat books say not to have them outside when frosted, as it causes bloat or other stomach upsets. Consequently mine have been inside for most of the last few weeks (and they don't really like the snow either).

Has anyone had problems with that, or is it that they get used to eating frosted grass?

Title: Re: Goats out on frosty grass
Post by: wytsend on December 20, 2010, 08:22:10 am

If they live out permanently - like a friend of mine's goats do - then no harm.  BUT goats normally housed at night, be very careful, it is not worth the risk.   Yes let them play in the snow if they want to - less harm with snow - but frosted grass can be damaging.

Title: Re: Goats out on frosty grass
Post by: ballingall on December 21, 2010, 12:17:52 am

We don't let ours out much at this time of year. Sometimes they go up to the goat shed door, and then they look outside and decide they are better off inside! I wouldn't let mine out to graze in this weather- but nothing wrong with letting them out for 15 mins exercise in the frost (and taking pictures whilst they are out).


Beth

Title: Re: Goats out on frosty grass
Post by: Anke on December 21, 2010, 06:24:16 am

Thanks, I was thinking that I was depriving mine of being out, but as soon as I push them out they just want to come in.... (and only after they have eaten through their morning portion of hay/haylage anyway as an assurance against eating too much frosted grass). Now all covered in snow again anyway.... -13 deg C just now outside....