Goat Health

The eight teeth in the lower front jaw of your goat can help you to tell his age.  They are not an exact or perfect guide, as various factors such as diet will influence the growth of teeth.  Also, every goat is an individual just like you and your friends.  Remember, not all your baby teeth fell out at the same time as those of other children in your classes.  A goat’s teeth may grow and fall out at slightly different ages than the teeth of any other goat. There are no upper front teeth in the goat’s mouth, instead your goat has a tough toothless “dental pad”.  Your goat does have teeth on the top and bottom of his jaw further back in his mouth.  These back teeth help him to chew his cud.  We do not use these to tell his age.

This chart goes from age under 1 year to the 3 years old because from the age of four on, the process for determining the goat's age becomes less precise and an exact age is difficult to determine. As the goat grows older, the teeth begin to buck out and spread. By the time the goat is ten years old, the teeth are generally pretty worn, depending upon what the goat has been fed or how tough its forage has been or whatever injuries the goat may have sustained to its mouth during its lifetime.

This is part of the reason that a lot of people recommend using only loose minerals and salt. Goats have a tendency to use their teeth to scrape off and break chunks off of the hard blocks which can ware their teeth down faster and even break them off.

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Where to give shots

Internal Parasites more info can be found at https://www.facebook.com/groups/THE.GOAT.CARE.UNIT/ also check out the following link https://www.facebook.com/groups/THE.GOAT.CARE.UNIT/448449041919710/

Medications to keep on hand

Goat Guideline for Anthelmintic Dosages (internal parasite dewormers) July 2006 *Important --- Please read notes below before using this chart*

1Valbazen Suspension (11.36 % or 113.6 mg/ml): Do NOT use in pregnant does in the first trimester of pregnancy. Meat withdrawal time is 9 days and 7 days for milk (FARAD). 2Safe-Guard/ Panacur Suspension (10% or 100 mg/ml): Approved in goats at 5 mg/kg with meat withdrawal time of 6 days and no withdrawal period for milk. Although the label dose in goats is 5 mg/kg, it is generally recognized that 10 mg/kg dosage is required for good efficacy. At 10 mg/kg dosage, meat withdrawal is 16 days and 4 days for milk (FARAD). 3Ivomec Sheep Drench (0.08% or 0.8 mg/ml): Protect from light. Coughing may occur during and following drenching. Meat withdrawal time is 14 days (FARAD). 4Levasole Soluble Drench Powder (Sheep): Oral solution ONLY. To prepare use 1 packet (13 gm/11.7 gm active ingredient) dissolved in 262 ml [8.9 oz.] water (44.7 mg/ml) {or 52 gram packet dissolved in 1048 ml water [35.4 oz.].} NOTE: This is different dilution from the label directions for administration. Meat withdrawal time is 4 days (FARAD). 5 Cydectin Pour on for cattle (0.5% or 5 mg/ml): Meat withdrawal time is 23 days. Not for use in lactating dairy goats. 6 Cydectin Drench for sheep (.1% or 1 mg/ml): Meat withdrawal time is 14 days. Not for use in lactating dairy goats. 7Cydectin Injectable for cattle (1% or 10mg/ml): GIVE SQ. Meat withdrawal time is 30 days. Not for use in lactating dairy goats.

NOTE for Guideline for Anthelmintic Dosages in Goats The attached chart was developed by Ray M. Kaplan, DVM, PhD (University of Georgia) and modified by Patty Scharko DVM, MPH (University of Kentucky.) and Lionel Dawson DVM, PhD. (Oklahoma State University). It is provided as a possible guideline for anthelmintic (deworming) dosages for goats. Producers should consult their veterinarian for advice on their specific management situation for determining dosages for their herd. With the exception of fenbendazole administered at the 5 mg/kg dose, these drugs are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in goats, and when used in goats are considered extra-label use (fenbendazole at the recommended dose rate of 10 mg/kg is considered extra-label usage). The FDA regards extra-label use of drugs as an exclusive privilege of the veterinary profession and is only permitted when a bona fide veterinarian-client-patient relationship exists and an appropriate medical diagnosis has been made. The chart is intended to serve as guideline for improving accuracy when dosing goats with an anthelmintic, but these drugs should be used in goats only when appropriate veterinary advice has been received. Drug resistance in parasites of goats is extremely common. The effectiveness of an anthelmintic should always be tested before being used by performing a FECRT (Fecal Egg Count Reduction test) or larval development (DrenchRite) assay if available. ** The current recommendation is to use the Cydectin cattle injectable formulation and NOT the pour-on formulation (orally) or the sheep oral drench. When administered by subcutaneous injection, moxidectin provides improved drug levels as compared to when administered orally. __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Information contained in this document is part of a web-based training and certification program for meat goat producers (http://www2.luresext.edu/goats/training/qa.html) that was developed with funding received by Langston University from USDA/FSIS/OPHS project #FSIS-C-10-2004 entitled "Development of a Web-based Training and Certification Program for Meat Goat Producers." Collaborating institutions/organizations include Alcorn State University, American Boer Goat Association, American Kiko Goat Association, American Meat Goat Association, Florida A&M University, Fort Valley State University, Kentucky State University, Langston University, Prairie View A&M University, Southern University, Tennessee Goat Producers Association, Tennessee State University, Tuskegee University, United States Boer Goat Association, University of Arkansas Pine Bluff, and Virginia State University

Coni Ross Homemade bottle kid formula

1 cup of nonfat dry milk (any generic grocery store version will do)
3 cups warm water
1 large egg
1/4 cup whipping cream
1 scoop Calf Pac (live probiotic product containing 5 viable organisms)
Mix with a mixer or food processor. Do not microwave.
To double the recipe: double water, milk, leave whipping cream the same, use a jumbo egg.
To triple: triple water, milk, 1/3 cup whipping cream, 2 large eggs.
Egg has all of the essential amino acids, fatty acids, and vitamins except vitamin C.
Coni says, “This recipe will grow kids as well as their own dam.”

Colostrum Replacers and Supplements - Do not confuse these two types of products. Newborns must have colostrum during the first hours after birth. If the dam is colostrum deficient, the producer must use a colostrum replacer. The best colostrum replacer is frozen colostrum taken from does on your property who have already kidded. This colostrum will have the antibodies needed to provide the kids the needed immunity to the infectious organisms present in your particular location. If you don't have a supply of frozen colostrum, then you must use a commercially-prepared goat colostrum replacer (*not* "supplement"). *A reminder: Do not use colostrum or colostrum replacer beyond the first 48 hours of the kid's life. Switch to goat's milk or goat's milk replacer. Colostrum has already done its job for the newborn after 48 hours and the kid's body can better digest goat's milk.

Magic & Revive Recipesby Coni Ross of CR Ranch in Blanco, Texas

www.crranch.org

These two recipes have saved untold goat lives and no one should go into kidding season without these recipes handy and the ingredients on hand. Ketosis and hypocalcemia are serious concerns especially with does carrying multiple fetuses and/or large kids.  Propylene Glycol while fine for treating ketosis in cattle just does not have the same positive effects with goats and Connie Ross’s Revive and Magic are more suited for a goats system and have been responsible for the saving of many goats lives whether they have been used for the treatment of hypocalcemia, stress and/or many other illnesses when a goat is going downhill fast and needs immediate attention.


Magic
1 pint of molasses
1 pint of Karo Syrup
1 cup corn oil


Mix and keep in the house as it will not pour if cold.


Give 6-10 ounces as the last drench at bedtime in pregnancy toxemia to keep energy up and hold the doe for the night. Use 8-10 oz for a large doe. 

Magic is also good for sick animals who have gone off their feed.

Helpful links:

Onion Creek Ranch, Lohn, TX


Jack & Anita Mauldin Boer Goats


Fiasco Farms

Revive
1 500 ml bottle 50% Dextrose
1 500 ml bottle of Amino Acid Solution (50cc if it is the concentrate)
200 cc Calcium Gluconate (for pregnancy toxemia)
20 cc B Complex
5 cc B12 (3000 mcg)
5 cc Thiamine (500 mg/ml)
1 gram Ascorbic Acid


Mix in a half gallon canning jar and keep in a cool dark place.


Give 100 cc’s of Revive mixed with an equal amount of water several times a day until the doe is eating again.


Revive can be used for any sick goat if the Calcium Gluconate is left out.
Connie does not use CMPK until after the doe has kidded and states that the Calcium Gluconate works better before kidding.



 Goat Medications & How To Use Them
by Suzanne Gasparotto, Onion Creek Ranch, Lohn TX, reprinted by permission

Most medications used to treat goats, whether they are prescription or over the counter, are "off label" or "extra label" usage. Few medications have been specifically formulated for and approved for use with goats. Therefore, goat producers are always searching for new medications for their goats' health problems. Too much experimentation is going on with medications without the supervision of a qualified veterinarian, the most significant being the improper usage of antibiotics. Further, in many parts of this country vets know little to nothing about goats.

First, the usual disclaimers. I am NOT a vet. I have been raising goats since 1990, and I have excellent vets upon whose advice I rely and who are experienced in treating goats. Use the information provided in this article at your own risk and only AFTER you have consulted with a qualified veterinarian. The medications are presented in alphabetical order; some of the medications are interchangeable with others, i.e. they provide the same treatment benefits but are being offered because specific products may not be available in all areas. I have not addressed withdrawal times for those producers concerned about meat and milk contamination. Some of the products may not be approved for use in food animals; Gentamycin and Baytril (but not Baytril 100 for use with cattle) in particular are restricted from usage in food animals in certain breeds and jurisdictions.

Producers must understand that pharmaceutical companies may decide not to spend the money and time needed to get a product approved for use with goats because they don't see a market large enough to warrant that expenditure. Lack of government approval does not necessarily mean that such products are dangerous or ineffective.

A-180 (donofloxacin) - Vet prescription. Injectable respiratory antibiotic (Pfizer). Neither I nor my vet have been very pleased with this product. Nuflor and Excenel RTU (listed hereinbelow) have worked better for us.

Albadry Plus - Teat infusion medication containing procaine penicillin and novobiocin sodium for treating mastitis in non-lactating goats. Also used to dry up lactating goats.Penicillin-based mastitis treatments are more successful than using non-penicillin-based mastitis medications. Also can be applied topically to staph infections.

Albon (Sulfadimethoxine 12.5%, or its generic equivalent) - These products are the drug of choice for preventing and treating Coccidiosis. Give orally undiluted to kids at a rate of 3-5cc and to adults at a rate of 5-10cc for five consecutive days. Mixing with drinking water as directed on the label is another option. Will not work with automatic waterers due to continual dilution of the product. Sick kids should be treated individually with oral dosing for five consecutive days. Buying the gallon jug is the most cost-effective purchase.

Banamine (FluMeglumine) - Vet prescription required. Anti-inflammatory that helps reduce fever, soothes irritation in the gastro-intestinal tract (gut) when diarrhea or other gut-related digestive illnesses occur, relieves pain and soreness associated with animal bites and other injuries. Should not be used but once daily except in severe cases where death is imminent, at which time the risk is worth the possible reward, because it builds up in vital organs and can cause permanent damage to the animal in the form of ulcerations in the digestive system. Dosage is 1 cc per 100 lbs. body weight IM, but can be used at a rate of 1/2 cc per 25-30 lbs body weight if necessary. A newborn kid with fever and diarrhea at Onion Creek Ranch would receive an injection of no more than 2/10 cc IM. Keeps best in hot climates when refrigerated. Never be without this medication.

Baytril 100 (Enrofloxacin 100 mg/ml) - Vet prescription. Baytril 100 (not Baytril 2.27%) is approved for use in livestock. Approved for use in cattle in certain circumstances. Usage in goats is "off-label" or "extra-label," but this antibiotic is being used on goats by some veterinarians. The appropriate IM dosage is 4 cc's per 100 lbs. of body weight for a minimum of 3 consecutive days. Do not use the single-use dosage; goats need consecutive-day application. This medication is very effective against gut-related illnesses and works synergistically (better together than individually) with SMZ (sulfadimethoxazine with trimethoprim). Some jurisdictions prohibit use of Baytril or Baytril 100 in any form (injectable or tablets) in food-production animals; check with your vet. If you have a sick goat on which no other antibiotic is working, Baytril 100 is the ultimate in effective antibiotics. Do not use without vet supervision.

Biosol (Neomycin Sulfate) - Over-the-counter sulfa-based antibiotic for using with scouring kids and adults when Coccidiosis is not the underlying illness. Works effectively against E.Coli and other digestive-system bacterial infections. For kids, give 3 cc orally every 12 hours until diarrhea has stopped and feces is normal. For adult goats, use 5 cc to 10 cc orally and as directed for usage in kids. Do not overdose; constipation can result.

BoSe and MuSe - Vet prescriptions are required for both products. (MuSe should not be used with goats; it is too strong and is a horse medication. Use BoSe with goats.) Injectable medication for selenium deficiency. Since selenium deficiency exists at different levels throughout the United States, it is critical to follow your veterinarian's directions on the usage of these products, as well as supplemental loose minerals containing selenium. See page 541 of Goat Medicine, by Dr. Mary Smith, for a map of the United States indicating areas of selenium deficiency. Most of the East Coast, down to Florida and westward through the Great Lakes region, plus the West Coast, including California and parts of Nevada and Idaho, are selenium deficient to different degrees. Selenium deficiency shows itself in goats most often in the form of weak rear legs in kids. Older goats look "pathetic," don't put on weight, have weak legs, and generally stay in poor condition and poor health. Selenium deficiency causes Nutritional Muscular Dystrophy (White Muscle Disease).

Selenium is toxic at low dosages, and the dosing margin of safety is narrow. The addition of selenium to feed is controlled by US law. In some areas, producers only need to provide loose minerals containing selenium. In other regions, selenium injections are necessary. When injections are required, they are usually given at birth and again at one month of age (one-half cc IM). Pregnant does usually receive injections four to six weeks before kidding, and bucks usually are vaccinated twice a year. Adult dosage of BoSe is 2-1/2 cc per 100 lbs bodyweight given IM. It is critical that producers understand that selenium supplements must be determined and supervised by your veterinarian because selenium levels vary widely across the USA.

C&D Antitoxin - Over-the-counter made-for-goats product that can be safely used for many problems. Colorado Serum's C&D Antitoxin is my choice. Severe diarrhea in very young kids, toxicity caused by plants, poisons (bites, overeating disease, bloat, ruminal acidosis, and ingestion of toxic sustances like azaleas and antifreeze are several examples), one of the products administered to combat Floppy Kid Syndrome . . . these are a few of the applications of this very versatile product which is almost impossible to overdose. This product provides short-term protection (about 12 hours) but works quickly towards solving the immediate problem. Follow label directions. Always have this product on hand; there is no substitute for it. Must be refrigerated. C&D Antitoxin negates any protection previously given by the CD/T vaccine. Therefore, the producer must wait for at least five days after completion of C&D Antitoxin therapy and re-vaccinate the animal with the initial CD/T injection and the booster 30 days thereafter. This is extremely important to remember.

*At Lost Prairie Farm, it is our recommendation that every breeder should have this on hand.  We use it on any goat that has rumen problems and not chewing their cud.  If you don't have a bottle on this Antitoxin in your fridge, best to know a nearby breeder that does...just in case of an emergency.  Colorado Serum's C&D Antitoxin is our choice.

CD/T (Clostridium Perfringens Types C&D & Tetanus Toxoid - Tetanus Toxoid)- Over-the-counter made-for-goats product to provide long-term protection against overeating disease (types C&D) and tetanus. Newborn kids and newly-purchased animals should be vaccinated with 2 cc (kids at one month of age) and then a second vaccination should be given 30 days later (kids at two months of age). Two injections 30 days apart are required in order to provide long-term protection. Annually thereafter, one injection of 2 cc per animal will renew the protection. Give SQ. Do not be surprised if it makes a knot at the injection site. This is the body's reaction to the vaccination, and in most cases, it eventually goes away. Colorado Serum makes a CD/T vaccine called Essential 3+T that does not cause injection site reactions and is my choice. CD/T is one of the few medications which is not based upon body weight. Every goat, from one month of age up to the biggest buck, should receive 2 cc SQ. Must be stored under refrigeration.

CoRid (amprollium) - Over-the-counter product for preventing and treating eliminating coccidiosis. Comes in granular packets and gallon liquid. This product is a thiamine inhibitor, and most professionals are recommending against it use. Albon or its generic equivalent Sulfadimethoxine 12.5% is preferred over CoRid. However, if you must use CoRid, buy the gallon liquid and maintain better control over dosages. Follow package directions. Rule of Thumb: For prevention of coccidia, use 2 oz. per 15 gallons of water; for treatment, use 3 oz. CoRid per 15 gallons of water. Limit the goats' water supply to one source and treat for five consecutive days. For animals severely infected with the coccidia parasite, mix 1 oz CoRid in 5 oz. water and orally drench the sick goats twice a day for five consecutive days; kids should receive 20-40 cc of this mixture twice a day, while adults should receive 40-80 cc. This is a higher-than-label dosage but what it takes to control coccidia in goats. Use Thiamine (Vitamin B1) daily when using CoRid.

Dewormers, Feed-based - Feed-based dewormers are not effective, in this writer's studied opinion. Dewormers are dosed based on bodyweight; there is no accurate way to do this with feed-based dewormers. Further, the goat needing the dewormer the worst will also be the least aggressive goat who will get less feed, therefore a lower dosage of the feed-based dewormer.

Dexamethosone - Vet prescription. Cortico-steroid. Use sparingly, with great care, and preferably under the direction of a vet. Dex has bad side effects. Used for swelling and inflammation once infection is under control. Do not use if broken bones exist, because it interferes with bone repair. Can induce labor, so do not use on pregnant does. Used to induce labor in pregnant does when the slow introduction of labor over a 48-to-72 hour period is desired (example: Ketosis). Dex interferes with the functioning of the goat's immune system. Usage of this drug must be tapered off slowly; serious problems can occur if Dex is given in large amounts and then suddenly stopped. Tapering off over five days is a normal procedure, i.e. reducing the dosage each day for five consecutive days. Dosage varies depending upon the problem being treated. Keeps best in hot climates when refrigerated.

Dextrose Solution (50%) - Although this is an over-the-counter IV product in a bottle, use 50% Dextrose Solution with weak newborns by slowing dropping one or two cc in the mouth and under the tongue for quick energy. Can be mixed half and half with water and offered short-term to weak goats or kids who are either having trouble digesting milk or have overeaten on milk (Floppy Kid Syndrome) and need to be taken off milk for several days until the toxicity caused by undigested milk has been removed from their bodies.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) - This product is being used by some producers as a "natural" dewormer. There currently exists great controversy over DE; users are believers of an almost religious fervor. This writer has been unable to find any scientific evidence of DE's effectiveness in controlling internal parasites. It is somewhat effective on external parasites (flies). Every controlled test done to determine efficacy of this product in killing internal parasites (worms) in goats has failed. If a producer chooses to use DE as a food additive, make certain that "food-grade" DE is purchased and use DE in conjunction with an ethical (commercially-produced) deworming product. Check fecal samples regularly for worms while using DE.

Dopram - Vet prescription. Eliminates respiratory distress in newborns caused by troubled births, including C-sections. Drop 2/10 cc under kid's tongue immediately upon birth to stimulate lung activity. Use on "pulled" kids since the normal squeezing of the body during the delivery process is altered. This liquid medication keeps best under refrigeration.

Draxxin (tulothromycin) - Vet prescription. Injectable respiratory antibiotic. Very expensive product that purports to be a one-time-only usage antibiotic. Because goats have the fastest metabolism of all ruminants, they need to be dosed daily. Nuflor and Excenel RTU given daily work in my herd and are far less expensive.

Electrolytes, Oral (ReSorb or equivalent) - Over-the-counter product packaged in powered form. For rehydrating sick animals, regardless of age. Can be used as an oral drench, put into baby bottles for kids to suck, or mixed in drinking water. Each packet should be mixed with 1/2 gallon warm water. Use in conjunction with Lactated Ringers Solution on extremely dehydrated kids or adults. Store in a cool, dry place. Never be without this product.

Epinephrine - Now a prescription product (used to be available over-the-counter). Used to treat Shock. Very inexpensive. Never be without it. Always have it on hand when giving injections. You will not have time to go get it. Dosage is 1 cc SQ or IM per 100 pounds body weight.

Essential 3+T - Over-the-counter vaccine for prevention of overeating disease and tetanus. By Colorado Serum. Highly recommended for not causing injection-site reactions.

Excenel RTU - Prescription injectable antibiotic. Ready-to-use equivalent of Naxcel. Effective against respiratory and urinary tract infections. Dose daily at 3 cc per 100 lbs bodyweight. Day One: dose twice 12 hours apart. Days 2 through 5: dose once every day. This writer prefers Excenel RTU's usage with kids, but it is useful with goats of all ages.

Ferrodex 200 iron injection - Injectable iron supplement for treating anemia. Interchangeable with Red Cell or Lixotinic.

Fleet's Enemas - Over-the-counter product that is also useful for constipation and toxicity reactions to clean out the intestinal tract. If a doeling is born with her vagina turned inside out, use a children's Fleet's enema (or generic equivalent) to move her bowels for the first time ("pass her plug") and the vagina will return to its proper position. Make sure to put the enema into the rectal opening . . . not the vagina.

Formalin (10% buffered formaldehyde) - Classified as a disinfectant, this product works well when injected into CL abscesses and also is very effective in treating hoof rot/hoof scald. Vets may recommend against using Formalin because this is off-label usage; if the producer doesn't use it properly, the vet might be held legally and financially libel. See this writer's articles on these topics on the Articles page at www.tennesseemeatgoats.com for usage and dosing instructions.

Fortified Vitamin B Complex - Over-the-counter product. This product can be used interchangeably with Thiamine when Thiamine alone is needed since it has 100 mg/mL thiamine in it. Products without "fortified" in the label have inadequate levels of thiamine present. If such products must be used, then the dosage must be increased to achieve a thiamine level of 100 mg/mL. Example: If the product has only 25 mg/mL, then the dosage given must be four times the "fortified" product's amount. B vitamins are water soluble; a healthy rumen produces B vitamins daily. B vitamins may be given to any sick goat. Use thiamine dosage. 

*A must for our medicine cabinet at Lost Prairie!

Gentamycin Sulfate - Injectable prescription antibiotic. Not authorized for use in all jurisdictions in food animals due to concern for antibiotic build-up in meat. Mixed in equal parts with Dexamethazone and Sterile Water, the resulting product is a very effective eye spray for treating Pinkeye. Do not use on ulcerated eyes.

Gentosin Spray - Topical prescription spray useful in treating non-ulcerated eyes having Pinkeye. See Gentamycin Sulfate.

GoatADE - Oral quick energy supplement for stressed and/or off-feed goats. This product is sold by Register Distributing. (http://www.goatsupplies.com). Contains many of the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that a sick goat requires to survive its illness. Superior to NutriDrench. Mixes well with propylene glycol and mineral oil for flavored dosing.

Immodium AD - Do NOT use this anti-diarrheal with goats.. It can stop the peristaltic action of the gut, causing rapid and painful death.

Ivomec 1% injectable dewormer - Over-the-counter product for eliminating stomach worms. This clear liquid works best if used orally at a rate of 1 cc per 50 lbs. body weight. Do not under-dose. Store at cool temperature and keep out of sunlight. Achieves a quicker "kill" via oral dosing. Also used in treatment of Meningeal Deerworm Infection. Clear dewormers do not kill tapeworms.

LA 200, Maxim 200, Biomycin (oxytetracycline 200 mg/ml) - Over-the-counter broad-spectrum antibiotic. Thick (use an 18 gauge needle and give SQ over the ribs) and may sting. Oxytretracycline 200 mg/mL must be used to treat abortion "storms." No vaccines are available to treat abortion diseases in goats and no off-label vaccines are effective in preventing abortion diseases in goats. Oxytetracycline 200 mg/ml is the goat producer's only choice. Also used to treat Pinkeye, even in pregnant does, because an abortion-causing organism can cause one strain of Pinkeye. Used both injectably for all Pinkeye and topically (in non-ulcerated eyes) for Pinkeye. Effective in treating hoof rot/hoof scald infections. Use 1 cc per 20 lbs. body weight SQ daily for a minimum of five consecutive days. The non-sting version of oxytetracycline 200 mg/ml is called Biomycin. Oxytetracycline 200 mg/ml is sold under several brand names; check the content label for correct 200 mg/ml strength. Turns a dark red when opened and air enters the bottle, but if kept under controlled climatic conditions and used before the expiration date, it should work fine.

Lactated Ringers Solution - Vet prescription. For rehydrating kids and young goats. Comes in IV bag but use SQ. Using a 60 cc syringe with an 18 gauge needle attached, draw up LRS, warm in a pot of water, check temperature as you would a bottle of milk for proper heat, and inject 30 cc under the skin (SQ) at each shoulder. Can be used several times a day until the goat's electrolytes are in balance. Will be absorbed by the goat's body very quickly if dehydration is present. Never be without this inexpensive life-saving product. Can be used in conjunction with oral electrolytes (ReSorb). Refrigerate when storing.

Lutalyse - Prescription injectable. Used to cycle does into heat or induce abortion in doe accidentally bred to wrong buck. Give 2 cc on the seventh (7th) day after observed breeding. Do not repeat.

Masti-Clear - Procaine-penicillin-based teat infusion for lactating does for treating mastitis.I think it works better against mastitis than other non-penicillin-based mastitis products.

Milk of Magnesia - Over-the-counter laxative product that is useful for constipation and toxicity reactions (to move toxic materials through and out of the body), including bloat, overeating disease, and Floppy Kid Syndrome. Use as oral drench at a rate of 15 cc per 60 lbs. body weight every four to six hours until the feces goes from normal to clumpy then back to normal 'pills.' Always keep the animal hydrated with electrolytes (ReSorb or equivalent) when using Milk of Magnesia or other laxatives. Keep MoM on hand at all times.

Mineral Max (MinMax) - Vet prescription. Cobalt-blue colored injectable liquid that must be used very sparingly in goats suffering from severe mineral deficiencies. Overdosing is easy.

Mineral Oil - Over-the-counter laxative product. Because mineral oil has no taste, a goat's throat does not recognize mineral oil as a substance to be swallowed; this product can easily be aspirated into the lungs. Must be stomach tubed. If stomach tube is not immediately available, mix mineral oil with GoatADE to flavor it and very carefully and slowly orally drench it into the goat's mouth.

Molasses/Karo Syrup - Use orally with kids when quick energy is needed. Can be substituted for propylene glycol when treating ketotic does.

Kopertox - Over-the-counter product for hoof rot and hoof scald. Blue-green liquid for topical application as a "liquid bandage." Applied topically to the hoof and used in conjunction with Oxytetracycline 200 mg/ml injections.

Naxcel (ceftiofur sodium) - Vet prescription. Broad-spectrum antibiotic used primarily at Onion Creek Ranch for respiratory illnesses (pneumonia). Comes in two bottles . . . one bottle contains a powder which must be kept refrigerated even while in powder form, and the other bottle is sterile water. When the two are mixed, they keep for only seven days. Draw syringes in dosages of 1/2 cc, 1 cc, 2 cc, and 3 cc, put needle caps on them, place the filled syringes in a ziplock bag, label and date it, and put the bag in the freezer. Syringes thaw quickly, but hold the needle cap upright, because the medication will settle into the needle cap and will be lost when the needle cap is removed. . Dosages on the bottle are insufficient for goats. If newborn kids have respiratory distress or E.Coli infections, they must receive a minimum dosage IM of 1/2 cc daily for five consecutive days. A 100 pound goat needs at least 5-6 cc of Naxcel IM over the five-day course of treatment. This writer no longer uses Naxcel but instead uses Excenel RTU, the ready-to-use equivalent product that doesn't require refrigeration or mixing.

Nuflor (florfenicol) - Vet prescription. Excellent respiratory antibiotic that is also used to try to prevent mastitis from becoming systemic. This writer tends to use Nuflor on adults and Excenel RTU on kids, but they are interchangeable. Administered IM every day for a maximum of five injections. This is a very thick liquid, so use Luer Lock syringes, or the needle may blow off the syringe, wasting the medicine. Dosage is 3 cc per 100 lbs bodyweight and is administered for five consecutive days; kids should receive no less than 1/2 cc. Keeps best under refrigeration in warm climates. NOTE: Because goats have the fastest metabolism of all ruminants, off-label medications that state every-other-day usage or one-time usage do not work. Goats must have daily administrations of medications.

Oxytocin - Vet prescription. Used at Onion Creek Ranch when a doe kids and does not pass her afterbirth. Must be used before the cervix closes (within approximately five hours after kidding). Causes contractions that expel the afterbirth. This is not a comfortable experience for the doe, so use it sparingly. Dosage is 1.5 cc per 100 lbs. body weight. In warm climates, keeps best when refrigerated.

Penicillin, Benzathine (long-acting penicillin) - This over-the-counter antibiotic has been overused for years and is no longer effective against some illnesses. Dosage is 5 cc per 100 lbs. body weight IM for five consecutive days. Must be refrigerated. Do NOT use this type of penicillin when Listeriosis or Goat Polio is the suspected illness.

Penicillin, Procaine (300,000 IU) - Procaine Penicillin must be used in high dosages in conjunction with Thiamine (Vitamin B1) in the treatment of Listeriosis and Goat Polio. Also is used to treat infection resulting from injuries, bites, and after difficult birthings. Over-the-counter product. Must be refrigerated. Always have this product on hand.

Pepto Bismol (pink bismuth) - Over-the-counter product to help with irritation/distress caused by diarrhea in both kids and adults. Use up to 2 cc every four to six hours for newborns; 5 cc for kids approaching one month old; as much as 10 to 15 cc for adults. Before using Pepto-Bismol when diarrhea is present, first determine the cause of the problem. See my article on Diarrhea on my website's Articles page: http://www.tennesseemeatgoats.com. Follow up with oral ruminant probiotics to repopulate the gastro-intestinal tract (gut) with live bacteria needed for digestion. Do not use Immodium AD to control diarrhea in goats; it can stop the peristaltic action of the gut and cause death.

Pneumonia Vaccine (Mannheimia Haemolytica Pasteurella Multocida Bacterin) - Over-the-counter injectable pneumonia vaccine by Colorado Serum. Made for goats. Requires two initial injections of 2 cc each 30 days apart for all young goats and any new purchases brought onto the property, then booster annually thereafter. Follow bottle directions. Give first injection at one month of age in conjunction with first deworming and first CD/T vaccination. Repeat at two months of age, then annually thereafter. Dosage is 2 cc for all goats, regardless of age, sex, weight, or breed. Never be without this valuable product.

Polyserum or Bovi Sera - Over-the-counter injectable immune system boosters. Given SQ. Advisable to use with any ill goat.

Primor - Vet prescription. Oral sulfa-based antibiotic. Tablets sized by weight of animal for gut-related infections, including Coccidiosis. Tablets are scored for easy breaking to fit appropriate weight of sick animal. Primor 120 is for 5-15 lb goats; Primor 240, 10-30 lb goats; Primor 600, 25-50 lb goats; and Primor 1200, 50-100 lb goats. Give two times the appropriate weight's dosage the first day, and then dose to the goat's weight for the next 9 consecutive days.

Probiotics, Oral - Over-the-counter oral ruminant gel which should be used in conjunction with antibiotic therapy, treatment for diarrhea (scours), and when shipping goats. Take along several tubes and administer it to each animal at least once per day during the journey. Helps lessen stress and settle the stomach. Probios is a well-known brand name.

Propylene Glycol - Over-the-counter clear oily liquid for ketosis in does. Provides quick energy. Comes in one-gallon containers. Use 50-60 cc twice a day for an average-sized adult doe until she begins eating again. Administer orally very slowly and best if mixed with GoatADE for flavor so the goat can taste it and know to swallow. If this product is not available, use molasses or Karo syrup. Freezes at temperatures well above 32*F, so store indoors under controlled temperature.

Rally or Recovr - Injectable antihistamine for toxicity problems. Vet prescription.

Red Cell - Over-the-counter oral iron supplement made for horses. Use in treating anemia. Interchangeable in usage with Lixotinic or Ferrodex 100 iron injections.  This over-the-counter supplement can be purchased at feed stores and mail-order houses. Generally thought of as a "horse" medication, Red Cell can be used to combat anemia in goats. Packaged in quart and one-gallon bottles, use it in conjunction with Vitamin B12 injections or as a stand-alone treatment. Red Cell should be administered daily via mouth for at least one week in no less than three cc amounts for an average-sized goat. 

*Here at Lost Prairie, we've had excellent results with Red Cell and highly recommend its use.

Safeguard (Panacur) dewormer - Another "white" dewormer. Currently worthless in killing stomach worms in most areas, despite claims on label. Does kill tapeworms.

Spectam Scour Halt - Over-the-counter sulfa-based antibiotic product to control diarrhea in kids. Scour Halt is a pig scour medication which works well on goat kids. Usage with adult goats may cause cessation of peristaltic action of the gut and possible death. Follow label directions when pumping this pinkish-red liquid into the goat's mouth. Follow up with oral ruminant gel to repopulate the gut with live bacteria necessary for food digestion.

Sterile Water - Amazingly, this product is a prescription. Used in mixing medications.

Sulfadimethoxazine with Trimethoprim (SMZ) - Sulfa-based oral prescription antibiotic. Available in both liquid and tablets. Use to treat watery diarrhea and other gut-related illnesses. Used with Baytril 100, SMZ is synergistic (better than by itself) in treating E Coli and other difficult to cure infections.

Synergized DeLice or generic equivalent - Over-the-counter product. Permethrin is the active ingredient in this oily product which should be applied along the backbone from base of neck to base of tail. (This back drench works on goats because external parasites are the target; back drenches don't work for treating internal parasites such as stomach worms.) Follow the directions carefully, and do not use on kids under one month old. Safe for pregnant does. Maximum application is three ounces per animal, regardless of weight. Use a discarded permanent squeeze bottle to apply this product; beauty shops will save them for you. The bottle tip is just the right size. For kids under one month of age who have lice, use a kitten-safe or puppy-safe powdered flea control product or carefully apply 5% Sevin dust. These products contain pyrethrins, which are much safer for very young animals.

Tagamet - Over-the-counter product. Use in conjunction with Primor for gut-related pain resulting from illnesses like coccidiosis. Dosage is one half of a Tagamet HR200 (200 mg) for 3-5 days.

Terramycin - Over-the-counter product. Opthalmic ointment used to treat Pinkeye, particularly in ulcerated eyes. 

Tetanus Antitoxin - Over-the-counter product for immediate and short-term protection against tetanus (lockjaw). Tetanus is fatal if not promptly treated. Comes in single-dose vials; use the entire vial IM for adults; cut it back proportionately for kids. No sooner than five days after this medication is last used, the producer will have to re-vaccinate with tetanus toxoid or CD/T (the complete two-injection series given 30 days apart) to reinstate long-term protection. Keep refrigerated.

Theodur - Vet prescription. Often used when bronchitis exists to clear air passages. Precise dosage is not known for goats, but this writer has, under vet direction and supervision, use 1/2 tablet per day on a 15-20 pound kid. Theodur suppresses the appetite; the producer must make sure that the animal is kept hydrated.

Thiamine (Vitamin B1) - Vet prescription. Used in conjunction with large dosages of antibiotics to treat listeriosis and goat polio, diseases which demand veterinary assistance or death is highly likely. Moldy feed and hay cause these illnesses. Dosage is 1 cc per 35 pounds bodyweight up to three times per day IM, SQ, or orally. Keeps best in warm climates when refrigerated.

Thrush Prevention/Treatment - Gel that prevents and treats hoof scald (between toes).

ToDay (cephapirin sodium) Over-the-counter product for mastitis treatment in lactating does. Milk out the bad milk/pus/blood and infuse one tube of To-Day into each infected udder for a minimum of two consecutive days. Use the alcohol wipe provided to clean the teat thoroughly before infusing medication to avoid introducing new bacteria into an already-infected udder.

ToMorrow (cephapirin benzathine) - Over-the-counter product for mastitis treatment in dry does. 

*At Lost Prairie, we use ToDay for mastitis treatment for does in milk.

Triple Antibiotic Opthalmic Ointment - Vet prescription. Use topically to treat Pinkeye, particularly in ulcerated eyes.

Tylan 200 (tylosin) - Over-the-counter antibiotic for respiratory problems. Use 1 cc per 25 lbs. body weight for five consecutive days intramuscularly (IM). Keeps best in warm climates when refrigerated. The prescription products Nuflor and Excenel RTU are far more effective than Tylan 200. I no longer keep this product on hand.

Valbazen - Over-the-counter "white" dewormer. Causes abortion in pregnant does at certain points in the pregnancy (very high risk of abortion if used in first trimester of pregnancy). For safety, never use on pregnant does. "White" dewormers kill tapeworms. Dosage is 1 cc per 25 lbs. bodyweight given orally.

Vitamin B-12 - Vet prescription. This red-colored injectable liquid is essential for use with goats who are anemic from worms or stressed from just about any illness. Administer 2 cc per 100 lbs. body weight. Keeps best refrigerated.

This listing is not comprehensive, but is a good overview of medications available for goat health problems. I repeat . . . I am NOT a vet. I do NOT encourage anyone to use these products and/or dosages without supervision and direction of a veterinarian. I encourage goat producers to find a qualified goat vet and develop a working relationship with that professional. This is what has worked for me with my goats. Many variables can affect the usefulness of this information, some of which may include the breed, sex, age, nutritional and reproductive status of the goat, the climatic conditions and general cleanliness under which the goats live, knowledge and skills possessed by the goat producer, and a host of other items. Consider this listing to be a guide by which you are pointed to a qualified vet in order to obtain help for YOUR animals. Remember, what works for me may NOT work for you in your goat-production operation.

Suzanne W. Gasparotto
ONION CREEK RANCH 10/20/09