It is gradually finding its way into the market as people go for it as an alternative pet that is entertaining and more to look at. It is full of energy and intelligence it is gentle and often forms a particular attachment to its master, which is important for many people who like to take care of animals. However, getting a goat entails certain issues that greatly resemble having a pet, but they have distinguishing characteristics.
Goats are social animals and they require the companionship of other animals. This also holds that they require sufficient space and an environment that will enable them to lead a healthy life. Like any other animals, goats are not just fed and housed; they must be exercised, have their brains occupied, and have fresh pasture. If you want a goat, be ready to spare your precious time and some amount of money to construct a home for the goat.
Of course, goats are highly rewarding pets, but they also entail a few considerations that need to be given some thought. It is important to determine a goat’s needs, behavior, and fit into your lifestyle before getting one. This introduction addresses factors that help decide if any goat is suitable as a pet.
Can You Own a Pet Goat?
- Legality
- Ethics
- Things to Consider
- Goat Behavior and Temperament
- Housing
- Specific Substrate Needs
Legality of Goat
Please go through the following checklist before acquiring a pet goat: It is also important to ensure that your town or city allows pet goats; do check the local zoning ordinances. Some of them have certain limitations on the number and size or weight of the goats as well as the proximity that the animals can be to homes or other properties. If your neighbors are close, it is advisable to talk to them because goats do make loud noises.
Ethics of Goat
The welfare of goats improves as long as appropriate standards of animal husbandry are provided, feed and water are provided, and the goats are housed in clean and well–aerated environments. Domesticated goats have been known to share the company of man for thousands of years; hence, they are very suitable for domestication.
Things to Consider
There are over 300 breeds of goats all of which vary in size, horned or not, and temperament. Choosing a breed is also very important; look up the breed that you think will be good at your house with your family. Maintaining goats is tiresome and that needs time and effort to invest regularly. They require constant care just like other pets require, or else they can easily get sick. Moreover, make arrangements regarding whom they will be looked after whenever you are out of town.
Goat Behavior and Temperament
Goat behavior is one of the defining characteristics that mainly depends on the breed, area, and stocking practices. Goats have different temperaments. There are playful goats, curious goats, and independent goats. Goats are social animals that feel comfortable in the company of other goats or other animals, but at the same time, they are very individualistic.
Housing
Goat behavior will vary depending on breed, living conditions, and upbringing. There are excited and playful goats as well as quiet and lonely ones. Goats are social animals and like to be around other animals or goats, being friendly but also shy. They are shaped by the training and interactions they have with others in society.
Specific Substrate Needs
Another option for a floor for goat barns is the dirt floor. If the barn floor is concrete or wooden it is advisable to lay rubber mats so that the goat’s comfort is enhanced.
Best Types of Goats for Pets
- Nigerian Dwarf
- Pygmy
- LaMancha
- Oberhasli
- Miniature Silky
What Do Goats Eat and Drink?
Goats eat a lot and eat a lot of hay every day, so be prepared to deal with big bales of hay. They require high protein grains and additional minerals especially copper which can be given as loose powder or salt licks. Just make sure they have plenty of clean water to drink and the water should be changed every day. So next time, you should consult a veterinarian with knowledge of farm animals to know what type of feed is suitable for goats, and don’t assume that the feed is suitable for other animals. It is harmful.
Exercise
Goats will exercise a lot if they are free to roam around and even climb on fences and average furniture. They like to climb so placing a rock pile or climbing structure such as playground equipment will enable them to climb and be happy.
Similar Pets to the Goat
If you are interested in other barnyard animals, check out:
- Llama breed profile
- Pot belly pig Breed profile
Common Health Problems
- Caprine arthritis encephalitis
- Caseous lymphadenitis
- Coccidiosis
- Bladder stones
- Sore mouth
- Enterotoxemia
- G-6-S: This genetic defect in Nubian goats will cause a Nubian or Nubian cross to die young
Conclusion
Goat keeping especially as a pet is a noble project but one that must be undertaken after proper consultation and with the commitment. Goats should also be kept with a companion and are best kept in twos or more. They need lots of ground to cover and forage in. They require special attention to their diet and you should constantly groom them and take them to the vet. One should first check the various legal requirements regarding animals in his locality so that he gets a goat and is in a position to provide for it. If one is up for it, then goats are a source of fun and rather interesting ways of communicating.