Dull coats and not much sparkle

[mousebandit]

My nubians just haven't picked up since we brought them home. We got them free, and the place they came from wasn't a breeder - they were pets in the backwoods for a little girl. I doubt they were abused or anything, but they probably weren't pampered either, if you know what I mean.

We've had them 3 months now, but they're just not where I hoped they'd be. They're coats still seem dull, and patchy, and they don't have that happy sparkle that my kiko's have. Technically, they seem in fine health, just not *thriving* if you know what I mean. The doe isn't freshened (hasn't ever had kids), and her companion is a wether, so I haven't been giving them much grain - just kind of as a treat here and there.

I was hoping that spring would perk them up, but it's not seeming to. Any suggestions to improve their happiness, health and appearance?

Tracey Mouse

[southerngurl]

Have you wormed them? And if so, did you make sure it was a wormer that is effective in your area? Might do a fecal with the vet.

Do they have good minerals available?

I'd give them probiotics as well.

Give them a little handfull of Black Oil Sunflower seeds each day, maybe give them a little Bragg's apple cider vinegar each day.

[BlueHeronFarm]

The dull coat could be copper deficiency. We have had the worlds' shiniest goats since we bolused. ...but the oil in the sunflower seeds should help, too.

[trnubian]

I would have to agree, do a fecal or have your vet do one and see if you are dealig with parasites. Tape worms will make the coats dull and rough.

Also a good quality goat mineral does absolute wonders for their coats. I like golden Blend from Hoeggers but I have also just discovered a mineral that Rural King carries. It's in a square white container. The goats LOVE it and they are shining like pennies.

Boss will help too.