Can I have only one goat and keep it happy?

[Shepherd in training]

I'm getting a doeling (soon as she's weaned), but I'm wondering if she will be happy with only chickens to keep her company ( and the odd barn cat).
Any thoughts on whether this is viable? Or should I get another little doe to keep each other company.
I have about 1000sq feet that includes a goat shed (5x7) and the rest is a barnyard, enclosed and bombproofed.

I should note that I do have neighbors near by....so far no one has complained of the chickens (probably since I give away eggs). Perhaps giving away chevre is next?

Thanks for your input.......

 

[ksalvagno]

I would get a buddy for her. She will be lonely and she will make a lot of noise to let you know it. Plus they tend to get into trouble when they are alone.

 

[tamsflock]

I would get her a buddy a little wether is always a nice buddy...

 

[chandasue]

Bribery works great but not if she's screaming for your company all night. 2 will be quieter than one.

 

[Lenhart]

I got two 7 day old goats about a month ago, one passed away and I still have my one little girl. She does cry when I leave after feeding but it won't last very long. It can get annoying but none of our neighbors have said anything. We actually had a neighbor that had a goat for years and years by herself and she did fine. Your goat would probably be happier with a friend but if two goats aren't an option I think one would be fine, my doe is doing pretty good by herself.

 

[freemotion]

( and the odd barn cat).

Maybe if you got a normal barn cat?





Sorry, I'm in a weird mood, too many cookies tonight and I'm not used to sweets!

Yes, another goat her age/size would be great, and twice the fun for you. They will keep each other company and will still focus on you when you are with them. They will be happier and healthier with a "herd" instead of alone. Their deepest instincts tell them that being alone is very dangerous and it is very stressful for them. Also, if you are in a climate where it gets cold at night or in winter, they will keep each other warmer.

 

[AlaskanShepherdess]

My little SIL had a single goat for a pet who was very happy, but there was at least 7 people full time on the ranch (who spent most of their days outside) and as many as 100 on the weekends. She had free run of the whole place that had 3 horses 2 steers and a menagerie of dogs, rabbits, ducks, chickens, peacocks, cats etc. There wasn't anywhere on the ranch you could really be alone, unless you went out in the middle of the stickerbushes and didn't mind a hare or two.

 

[20kidsonhill]

You might get lucky, but then again you might be surprised how loud one or two goats are, hope it works out for you. It helps to feed on a regular basis every day and not to be randomly throwing snacks at them. They can get spoiled and cry for you every time they see you.

mine are fed around 7 am and 6 pm, at the crack of dawn, if they hear my house door opening and closing they are bellowing and the same starting at around 5pm.

 

[Emmetts Dairy]

I would definately get her a friend. Goats are herd animals and do not do well alone. As stated, she will be lonely. IMO. There are tons of wethers out there that would love to do the job as being a friend!!

I highly recomend a friend for sure!!! Good luck!

 

[20kidsonhill]

I would definately get her a friend. Goats are herd animals and do not do well alone. As stated, she will be lonely. IMO. There are tons of wethers out there that would love to do the job as being a friend!!

I highly recomend a friend for sure!!! Good luck!

So, Emmett, How do you feel about her getting a friend?

Sorry, too much coffee this morning.