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In Reply to: Mineral deficency posted by Lila on November 10, 2001 at 14:57:55:
Hi Lila,
Mineral deficiencies play a large part of a goats overall health. You'll need to keep those loose minerals available all the time. I'm not sure what kind of mineral "block" you are using but I would advise you to use only loose minerals. The reason why is two-fold. One reason is because the blocks are tougher on their teeth. The second reason is because alot of mineral blocks are sold as "Goat & Sheep" blocks. Two different species, each with their own mineral requirements. I seriously doubt that the blocks contain adequate levels of copper (or copper sulfate) because sheep can tolerate little or no copper at all. At least levels far less than what goats need.
But what you are probably seeing is either a selenium, phosphorus or an iron deficiency. These are among the most common (iron being lesser, but not the only mineral deficiencies). What I personally would do, is to contact your local agriculture extension agent and discuss what mineral deficiencies exist in your area. They are generally very helpful.
If it is indeed a deficiency problem, there are several key areas to look at: their regular feed and hay. Some feeds contain only the minimum ingredients while some hay will contain trace amount of the nutrients needed. This is seen during bad growing years, poorly harvested and cured hay, etc. I think this is why so many breeders stress keeping out a good quality loose mineral mix - to ensure that their goats receive proper nutrition no matter what the feedsource is providing. They seem to sense when they know they need something. I personally use a loose mineral manufactured by Vigortone called Vigortone 32S. Some will argue that this particular mineral mix (for cattle) contains too much copper, but to be honest, we have never had a problem with it. It was not long after I started using this that many breeders began reassessing copper levels needed by goats and said that 1,250 ppm might be just right - go figure. Just keep it away from sheep if you have any. I've included a link to the page I have on GoatWorld regarding it below. You'll also notice what it says regarding consumption of forage vs. consumption of the product.
Hope this helps.
Best regards,
Gary Pfalzbot
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