What are the symptoms of copper deficiency in goats?
Deficiency symptoms include anemia, bleached looking and rough hair coat, diarrhea and weight loss. Young goats may experience progressive incoordination and paralysis, especially in the rear legs.
Why does my goat keep falling?
Myotonic goats are born with a congenital condition called myotonia congenita, which is also known as Thomsen’s disease. This condition causes their muscles to seize up when they’re startled. This results in their falling over as if they fainted upon being scared.
How do you test for copper deficiency in goats?
Diagnosing copper deficiency Unfortunately, the most reliable test for copper deficiency is a liver biopsy, which is not really practical on a live goat. Blood tests are not reliable. That means you have to watch your goat for symptoms.
Why does my goat have weak legs?
Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis Syndrome (CAE) CAE is a viral disease. In young kids symptoms include a weakness in the rear legs, with no fever, or loss of appetite, However, the unused legs lose muscle strength and structure and the infected kids eventually die.
How do you fix copper deficiency in goats?
If you suspect your goats are copper deficient, you can administer a copper bolus. Read more about that here. Before you supplement with a copper bolus, make sure to consult an experienced goat vet to determine if a bolus is necessary.
Is alfalfa pellets good for goats?
Goats need some long-stemmed hay, every day, to keep their rumen functioning at its best. When goats chew, they produce bicarbonate. It is simply ground up hay. Keep in mind that just as with baled hay, you should only feed alfalfa pellets to milkers, does in late pregnancy and fast-growing kids.
What can I give a goat that is weak?
You can try dripping or rubbing some colostrum, vitamin solution, corn syrup, or even coffee on its tongue and gums to help give it a little energy boost. A weak baby goat may benefit from a thiamine injection.