The Ultimate Guide to Goat Feeders: Choosing the Best Option for Happy, Healthy Goats

As a goat owner, one of your most important responsibilities is feeding your goats. Goats are particularly mischievous and curious creatures; therefore, the feeding method you practice greatly influences their health, wellbeing, and of course, your finances. Using the proper type of feeder will guarantee that the goat gets the right nutrition while at the same time reducing waste and keeping the feed from becoming polluted.

This article will cover all the information you need to know about goat feeders from their types, DIY options, as well as reviews of popular commercial feeders. By the end of this article, you should be in a position to select a suitable feeder for your goats to help maintain a healthy and happy herd.

Why the Proper Goat Feeder is Crucial

When it comes to goat feeding, cleanliness and orderliness strikes efficiency while helping prevent waste. Capricious eaters, goats often will hay or feed and eat only what is left after it has been stepped on, or soiled. If there is no appropriate feeder, this habit can result in unnecessary expense due to feeding waste.

Moreover, if you use the wrong type of feeder, it can give rise to unsanitary conditions like spoiled grain or hay which endanger the health of your goats. The right goat feeders will:

  • Maintain hygiene by ensuring that the feed does not touch the ground.
  • Reduce waste through prevention of trampling and contamination of food by goats.
  • Help improve access of the goats to essential nutrients.

Making the best choice for your herd begins with understanding the types of feeders available.

Categories of Goat Feeders Along With Their Advantages and Disadvantages

Every kind of goat feeder has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most popular options.

1. DIY PVC Goat Feeder

Because this design can be manufactured from readily accessible resources, it is among the favorite choices of homesteaders.

Advantages:

  • Affordable and does not require extensive skills to construct.
  • Perfect for small goat herds and for those just starting in the goat farming venture.
  • The feeder is able to keep the feed tidily and clean.

Disadvantages:

  • Might not be the best option for large goat herds.
  • Regular cleaning is a must otherwise debris can accumulate.

2. Horizontal Bar Hay Feeder

Horizontal hay feeders are specifically designed to minimize the amount of hay waste while allowing goats to easily access their feed.

Pros:

  • Reduces feed waste.
  • Prevents feed contamination from goats stepping on or lying in hay.
  • Durable and efficient for daily use.

Cons:

  • Often more expensive than DIY options.
  • Requires adequate space to set up.

3. Wall-Mounted Goat Feeder

Wall-mounted feeders are great for saving space and keeping feed elevated off the ground.

Pros:

  • Perfect for small enclosures or barns.
  • Keeps hay and feed clean.
  • Easy to refill and maintain.

Cons:

  • Limited capacity compared to larger feeding options.
  • May not be ideal for larger herds.

4. Tarter Farm and Ranch Goat Feeder

A commercial feeder designed with durability and functionality in mind.

Pros:

  • Large capacity; ideal for bigger herds.
  • Built to last with heavy-duty materials.
  • Suitable for both hay and grain feed.

Cons:

  • Higher upfront cost.
  • Heavier and harder to move.

By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each type, you can decide which feeder suits your herd’s size and needs.


DIY Goat Feeder Ideas

For those looking to save money or add a personal touch, building a DIY goat feeder is an excellent option. Here are two simple ideas to inspire you:

PVC Goat Feeder

  • Materials Needed: PVC pipe, end caps, PVC glue, screws, and a saw.
  • Instructions:
    1. Cut the PVC pipe to your desired length (2-3 feet works well for most herds).
    2. Attach end caps to prevent feed from spilling out.
    3. Drill several holes along the bottom half to allow feed to slide through.
    4. Mount the PVC pipe against a wall or fence using screws.

Repurposed Pallets Hay Feeder

  • Materials Needed: Wooden pallets, nails, and wood glue.
  • Instructions:
    1. Stand two pallets vertically and secure them together in a “V” shape.
    2. Nail additional wood pieces to the bottom for stability.
    3. Place hay in the feeder and watch your goats enjoy!

These DIY feeders are cost-effective, customizable, and an excellent way to repurpose materials.


Reviews of Commercial Goat Feeders

If you’d rather invest in a ready-made solution, here are some top-rated commercial goat feeders:

Horizontal Bar Hay Feeder

Praised for its ability to minimize hay waste, the horizontal bar feeder is a hit among goat owners. Its sturdy design ensures durability, and it accommodates multiple goats at a time.

Tarter Farm and Ranch Goat Feeder

Built for durability and efficiency, this feeder is perfect for those managing larger herds. Its large capacity and dual functionality (hay and grain) make it a versatile choice.

Wall-Mounted Goat Feeder

Ideal for smaller setups and barn spaces, the wall-mounted feeder keeps things compact and clean. Goat owners appreciate its space-saving design and ease of use.

These commercial options are designed to address common feeding issues while saving you time and effort.


Choosing the Right Feeder for Your Goats

When deciding on a goat feeder, consider the following factors:

  1. Herd Size

A wall-mounted feeder or PVC feeder may work for small herds, while larger herds require high-capacity feeders like Tarter’s Goat Feeder.

  1. Budget

If you’re on a tight budget, DIY options like the PVC feeder offer great value. For long-term durability, commercial feeders are worth the investment.

  1. Location and Space

Limited space? Opt for wall-mounted feeders. If you have more room, horizontal bar feeders work wonderfully.

By taking your unique setup and goats’ needs into account, you’ll find the perfect feeder to keep your herd happy and healthy.


Tips for Maintaining Your Goat Feeder

To keep your goat feeder functioning properly, follow these tips:

  • Clean Regularly

Remove old feed and wash surfaces to avoid mold or bacteria growth.

  • Inspect for Damage

Check for cracks, loose screws, or sharp edges that could harm your goats.

  • Place Strategically

Avoid areas prone to flooding or excessive debris to keep feed fresh.

Routine maintenance helps extend the life of your feeder and keeps your goats safe.


Setting Your Goats Up for Feeding Success

Your choice of goat feeder plays a crucial role in the health and happiness of your herd. By selecting the right option, you can reduce waste, save money, and make feeding time a breeze.

Whether you opt for a DIY feeder or invest in a commercial design like the Tarter Farm and Ranch Goat Feeder, the key is to ensure your goats have clean, easy access to their food. With the tips and ideas shared in this guide, you’re all set to make feeding your goats both efficient and enjoyable.

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