The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Goats => Topic started by: Cinderhills on April 18, 2012, 08:31:22 am

Title: Goats nibbling our rams wool
Post by: Cinderhills on April 18, 2012, 08:31:22 am

I moved my ewes away from our ram as trying to feed them without him barging in was a nightmare.  He loves the two goats he lives with (and he can still see his ladies through the fence) and they all get on well.  But the other day I noticed that one of the goats was pulling little bits of his wool from his back and actually eating it.  Are they lacking in something?  Are there nutrients in the wool or is this a sign of affection?!

Title: Re: Goats nibbling our rams wool
Post by: Anke on April 18, 2012, 06:03:49 pm

I am not sure the wool is doing them any good.... It's not that they are lacking in anything necessarily, they ma just be bored... and like to nibble anything in reach...

Title: Re: Goats nibbling our rams wool
Post by: wytsend on April 18, 2012, 07:39:22 pm

Usual reason for hair/wool eating is lack of minerals.....  generally zinc and/or potassium

Are you using the new Premium Goat Balancer  which will correct any imbalance.

Title: Re: Goats nibbling our rams wool
Post by: Cinderhills on April 18, 2012, 08:52:37 pm

Thank you.

Wytsend - I didn't buy any but think I will now.  Thanks for reminding me.

Title: Re: Goats nibbling our rams wool
Post by: wytsend on April 18, 2012, 09:06:20 pm

Have you got the number to ring..... just in case      it is 01363 778792   & speak to Kym.

Kym will make sure you get a tub asap.