Whole Oat Shortage? Alternative?

[HappyFarmer]

We went to the coop last night to buy bulk whole oats and were very surprised that they ran out. The person on duty was surprised also (they ran out while filling our barrels, only had about 20# in the silo.)

I asked if there was a shortage or?? and he couldn't tell me, only that they bought the oats from Canada & he didn't know when or if they would be getting more.

Our normal ration is w.oats, cracked corn, sunflower seeds, alfalpha pellets & of course loose minerals & local hay. They do very well on this, and are meat goats.

Does anyone know if there's a shortage on oats this year? Also what would be a decent supplement? They have wheat, but the clerk said people buy that for their chickens. Could this be supplemented for the oats temporarily? If not what can we supplement?

Thanks,
HF

[Whisperwindkat]

Feed wheat works just fine. It is similar in nutrition to oats. Just make sure that you specify feed wheat and don't let them give you seed wheat. Many times seed wheat has been treated, but feed wheat is clean. Also, if you need to increase their protein and micronutrients then you can germinate some of the wheat. We do that in the winter and top their feed with some germinated wheat seed. Blessings, Kat

[Alice In TX/MO]

I don't think there's a shortage. Somebody just forgot to order.

[goatkid]

I haven't had any problem getting whole oats here. In fact, I've been able to buy them on sale at times over the past few months. I think your coop forgot to order more.

[HappyFarmer]

Thanks for the suggestions, and the status of the oats.

I was getting a little worried there. I have enough oats for a couple of weeks, hopefully they'll get some in before I run out. Maybe I'll check out what type of wheat it is, and add to the mix so it won't be such an issue if this happens again.

Thanks again,

HF

[PNP Katahdins]

Might be wise to check with other feed dealers in your area, if there are any that is, just in case. Good luck.

Peg

[Backfourty,MI.]

Just bought rolled oats here the other day to make up our goats feed.

Our goats also like the rolled barley too, not sure how they compare to the oats though.

[Oat Bucket Farm]

No shortage of whole oats here.