Four Tips for Choosing the Best Kid Goat Milk Replacer

The early days of a kid goat’s life are critical for setting the foundation for their health and growth. Choosing the best kid goat milk replacer can make all the difference in raising strong, healthy kids. At H&S Feed Stores, we’re here to guide you with four essential tips to help you make the right choice.

1. Know Which Kids Need Milk Replacer

Milk replacer is a great option for:

Dairy goat kids
Orphaned or unclaimed kids
Kids from large litters
Weak or small kids
Preventing the spread of Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis (CAE)

Feeding milk replacer allows you to market doe’s milk while ensuring your kids get the nutrition they need to thrive.

2. Choose a High-Quality Formulation

Not all milk replacers are created equal. Look for a product specifically formulated for goats, like LAND O LAKES® Doe’s Match® Kid Milk Replacer. With 25% protein and 28% fat, it closely mimics doe’s milk and supports efficient growth. Research shows kids fed this milk replacer achieve greater average daily gains compared to naturally reared kids.

3. Feed Milk Replacer at the Right Time

Start feeding milk replacer on day two, after colostrum. Provide fresh water and high-quality dry feed alongside the milk replacer. Begin with small, frequent feedings and gradually adjust the volume and frequency as the kids grow. Continue feeding milk replacer until the kids are at least 4-6 weeks old.

4. Select a Milk Replacer That Mixes Well

A good milk replacer should mix easily and consistently. Poor-quality ingredients can cause separation, leading to unbalanced nutrition. Use a product tested for consistent mixing, and follow these steps:

Use water at 110-120°F for mixing.
Weigh the milk replacer powder for accuracy.
Ensure the final mixture is 105°F before feeding.

At H&S Feed Stores in Oskaloosa and Indianaola, IA, we carry the best kid goat milk replacer like LAND O LAKES® Doe’s Match® to help your kids grow strong and healthy. Stop by today to stock up on all your goat care essentials and get expert advice tailored to your herd’s needs.