Meat goats are a fairly new livestock enterprise in the U.S. Finding a good veterinarian who is familiar with goats can be difficult. Although you may be experienced and comfortable with goats, having a good working relationship with your veterinarian is important and is recommended by the MGQA program. Also, networking with other goat producers and owners is important to share home remedies and treat any health problems. Remember there are not many FDA-approved drugs for goats; therefore, off-label usage of antibiotics and anthelmintics are common practice and should be under the guidance of a veterinarian.

There are many books available on goat health that you can purchase to help you become familiar with problems frequently encountered in goats. Also ask your veterinarian about the type of problems and diseases that goats encounter in your area. Follow injection sites (neck area, front of point of shoulder) and needle sizes (18-20 gauge) recommended by the MGQA program. I will go over a few of these health problems in the following section.

The operation of a goat farm for maximum profit requires good care and quality health programs. The focus of a health program should be prevention and control practices, rather than cure. Early vaccination against diseases and deworming against internal parasites will provide an appropriate means of control and prevention of diseases and parasites. The most effective treatment for internal parasites is a regular routine of deworming that may start as early as weaning time.

Avoid overcrowding of kids in a small area, rotate pastures, and follow a sanitary method of feeding. Avoid feeding on grounds or from feeders contaminated with droppings. Isolate sick animals. If new animals are added to the flock, quarantine them for at least four weeks. Consult your veterinarian for vaccinations, parasite control and other health care management practices as needed.