Posted by Sherry on January 06, 2001 at 21:31:53:
In Reply to: I have a couple questions about pygmy goat ready to kid anyday now. posted by Jillygoat on January 06, 2001 at 19:09:06:
It is my opinion that pygmy mothers have it much rougher than the larger breeds. Not only do they have limited space, but once the kids are born, they jump all over the does and we've had them even ride on mom's back! They are little devils!
I've always noticed that the kids seem to quieten down just before kidding. As far as where the kids are, it's the same as with the larger breeds, just in smaller form! You can feel the babies better on the right side and underneath. Whenever I feel anything moving on the left side I call it rumen activity!
I'm sure you've read about the tail ligaments getting loose, it's the same in pygmys. Except you can only fit your fingers in there instead of your whole hand! They also get the muscle running from the hip bone to the ribs. I've noticed that when this is most prominent, it's about time!
I also keep an eye on the vulva. She'll get really soft (I liken it to a giant pink marshmallow!) and it will appear to sag a little. Sometimes there will be some discharge. The best judge of course is to try your best to know exactly when your girls breed so you can narrow down the "watch window"!
The surest way I can tell with my girls is their behavior. It's as if they are trying to tell me that the show is on the road. If you notice her behaving differently, keep a close eye on her.
Hope this helped...and I know you're enjoying those 2 a.m. barn trips! Happy Kidding!