Can Goats Eat Vegetables?
Goats are commonly associated with eating grass, hay, and other vegetation like shrubs – but can they also eat vegetables? The answer is yes, goats can eat vegetables – however, the amount and types of vegetables they can eat varies.
Vegetables Goats Can Eat
Goats can eat a wide variety of vegetables. Here are some common vegetables that are safe for goats to eat:
- Leafy Greens: Kale, mustard greens, cabbage, spinach, and Swiss chard are all popular leafy greens that can be fed to goats.
- Root Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, turnips, and radishes are a few root vegetables that goats can eat.
- Fruits: Apples, oranges, peaches, apricots, pears, and bananas are all examples of fruits that goats can safely eat.
Goats can also eat other vegetables like bell peppers, squash, pumpkins, and tomatoes in moderation.
Vegetables Goats Should Avoid
Not all vegetables are safe for goats to eat. Here are some vegetables that goats should avoid:
- Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts should not be fed to goats as they can cause digestive upset.
- Legumes: Peas, beans, and other legumes should also not be fed to goats as they are hard for goats to digest.
- Mushrooms: All types of mushrooms are poisonous to goats, so they should not be a part of their diets.
It’s also important to remember that goats should not eat too many vegetables, as this can upset their digestive system. Generally, about 10% of a goat’s diet should be made up of vegetables.
Conclusion
Goats can eat a variety of vegetables, but it’s important to be careful to only feed them safe vegetables and to do so in moderation. Doing so can help keep goats healthy and happy.
