Good housing plays an important role in keeping goats dry, safe and healthy. A well-constructed goat house does not have to be complicated, but it should provide adequate protection from the weather while creating a clean and secure environment for the animals.
By Maile Matsimela, digital editor at African Farming
One of the most important requirements is a good roof that protects goats from rain and keeps the inside of the shelter dry.
The floor should also be raised off the ground to help prevent moisture from building up inside the house. A raised floor fitted with slats allows droppings and other dirt to fall through while improving airflow underneath and through the shelter.
This makes it easier to maintain a cleaner and drier environment for the goats.
Also read: The goat farmer’s manual: How do I check the condition of my goats?
Make the shelter safe and secure
A goat house should have a strong, secure door that can be locked. This helps keep the goats safely inside and protected.
Farmers should regularly inspect the structure and keep it in good repair. Sharp objects or damaged parts that could injure the animals should be removed or repaired.
Also read: The goat farmer’s manual: How do I handle and restrain my goats?
Provide clean feed and water
Goats should have access to a water bucket and feed trough that are easy for the animals to use and simple to clean.
A mineral block should also be provided in a suitable container. The container should be raised off the floor and positioned where the mineral block is protected from rain.
Good goat housing therefore comes down to a few basic principles:
- Keep the animals dry.
- Provide good ventilation.
- Maintain a clean environment.
- Make sure the shelter is safe and secure.
Farmers who need further advice on suitable goat housing can consult their animal health technician, veterinarian or another appropriate agricultural professional.
The information in this article is sourced from the Goatkeepers’ Animal Health Care Manual published by ARC Veterinary Onderstepoort Research with the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs. For more information, contact your animal health technician, veterinarian or another appropriate animal health professional.
Also read:
Goats, culture and commerce: Building an industry around an existing market
The goat farmer’s manual: How do I water and feed my goats?
The goat farmer’s manual: A step-by-step guide to taking a goat’s temperature
Love of goats pulls Elvis back to his roots
This is what you must know about goats
Areas suitable for goat farming in South Africa
Ask the vet: Checking for pregnancy in goats
