Dairy Goats - Protein question....

[RBauscher]

I have a new nigerian dwarf doe. She was fed a 16% dairy ration. My husband had bought a 14% goat ration from our local mill before we brought her home. Is there a supplement we could mix in to increase the protein to 16% or should we return the 14% and just buy a commerical 16% ration? Just not sure if the mill will take the 14% back or not......We only bought 2 goats (one is a baby) to start with, but have 200 lbs of 14% feed. Why do some dairy goat owners feed 16% to lactating does, while others feed 18%? Thanks for the advice!

 

[20kidsonhill]

There are 30% protein pellets that can be used to top dress. They are pricey. I wouldn't worry about it, just add some Alfalfa pellets or alfalfa hay to her diet.

 

[ksalvagno]

You want to give a higher % of protein to lactating does to help with milk production. The 14% should be fine to give her and just add alfalfa pellets.

 

[RBauscher]

Thanks to you both!