Goat Kidding Supplies

This list of goat kidding supplies will help you to relax for this fun and a bit intimidating time on the homestead.

If you raise dairy goats, then goat breeding and goat kidding are on your yearly project list. Be sure you have the tools nearby and the help on hand so you can help out if there is an issue.

Goat kidding is a fun time on a homestead. Each spring new babies are born bringing life and comical scenes to ordinary days. If you raise dairy goats, then goat kidding is a routine part of your spring because in order for the milk to continue to flow, you will need to breed your goats.

Goat Breeding Resources:

More often than not, goat kiddings happen without any need for our help. However, being prepared is always the best way to raise livestock of any kind. This article is going to help you prepare for kidding season so you can help and give support if needed.

a brown newborn baby goat kid looking directly into the camera

Goat Kidding Supplies List

I am going to include all the things on this list. You don’t need to have them all, but I do want to list them out and why I use them so you can better decide what to have.

Grab the Free Goat Checklist Below!!

#1. Paper Towels

These can be quite handy for cleaning your hands and kids’ faces. Goat kids are born with fluids all over their bodies and it is important to clean out their nose and mouth so they can breathe easier. I am not a fan of rags because I don’t want to have to wash them after. Paper towels are quick, easy, and do the job.

#2. Gloves

Gloves are something I always have in our barn because they help to keep my hands protected, as well as any animals I am working with. Sterile Gloves come in handy if you need to assist with kidding.

#3. Scrub/Wash

If you need to help with kidding, use a Betadine surgical scrub first. This will cut down on dirt and germs keeping things more sterile.

#4. Iodine

This is used for dipping umbilical cords, something that needs to be done within the first 20 minutes of life. This will keep things clean and sterile. We use 7 Percent Iodine for this task.

#5. Floss

Once kids are born, you will need to quickly tie off the umbilical cord using dental floss. If dirt gets up inside the cord, a serious infection can happen. Once you have dipped the cord, be sure to tie it off.

Oral-B EssentialFloss Cavity Defense Dental Floss, 50 M, 2 Pack Triodine-7-16 Ounce Betadine Antiseptic Liquid First Aid Solution, Povidone-iodine 10%, Infection Protection, Kills Germs In Minor Cuts Scrapes And Burns, No Sting Promise, No Alcohol or Hydrogen Peroxide, 8 FL OZ PEIPU Nitrile Gloves,Disposable Cleaning Gloves,(Medium, 100-Count) Powder Free, Latex Free,Rubber Free,Ultra-Strong,Food Handling Use, Single Use Non-Sterile Protective Gloves

#6. Scissors

Once you have the cord tied off, you can cut any extra length using scissors. A good length is about 2 inches out from the belly.

#7. Headlamp

Goats tend to kid at night; at least, they do here! For that reason, I like to have hands-free light. This headlamp works great, allowing me to put the light where I need it to be.

#8. Syringe

I like to use a baby bulb Syringe to help remove mucus from noses and airways. This doesn’t always need to be done, but in case you have a kid that is struggling it can be very helpful.

#9. Bottle/nipple

A clean, empty pop bottle and a supply of Pritchard Nipples are good to have on hand, especially if you bottle-feed your kids. Always remember to ensure every goat kids get colostrum from the mother.

Jili Online Pack of 30 Durable Dog Cat Pet Drink Bottle Nipple Teat Lamb Kid Orphan Soft Ewe Goat Nipple Length 0.67 inch (90ml)Rubber Suction Ear Syringe, Hand Bulb Syringe Ear Washing Squeeze Bulb- Blue Smooth MAFSEUT Rechargeable Headlamp, 8 LED 18000 High Lumen Bright Headlamp with Red Light, IPX4 Waterproof USB Headlight, Head Lamp, 8 Modes for Outdoor Running Hunting Hiking Camping Gear 6 pcs 5.5 inch Small Trauma Shears Set, Stainless Steel Bandage Scissors, Portable Medical Scissor, First Aid Scissors, Mini Nurse Scissors, by LI JIU®

What is Colostrum?

Colostrum is the very first “milk” produced by the mother. It is before the actual milk comes in and is thicker than normal milk. It is crucial for healthy goat kids because it contains antibodies that are needed to start the immune system of baby goats.

It is high in protein and rich in fat. Once kids are born watch to confirm they nursed within the first 20-30 minutes on the mother getting the colostrum they need to be healthy.

#10. Help

Be sure you have our vet’s phone number or a local goat farmer that you can call if there is trouble or you have a question. I cannot stress enough the importance of having help.

SLCG Pro Tip: I have a book that has been a huge help to me over the years, and it’s called Storey’s Barn Guide to Sheep. Even though it is written for sheep, the information inside has been invaluable to me.

There are images of each possible presenting of kids so you can better see how they are lined up so you can help to correct their position if needed. This is my go-to guide for goat kidding.

#11 Empty Feed Bags

If you get feed from a mill, you probably have bags like cloth, but not quite. These bags can be a lifesaver during kidding. You can use them to put kids on to keep a pen dryer. We also use them to gather up trash used for kidding, making cleanup quick and easy.

#12. Lubricant

My vet suggested I have this OB Lube on hand just in case I need to go “in” to reposition a stuck kid.

Disclaimer: In accordance with FDA guidelines, the information and products offered on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. I am not a medical professional. Before administering any medications to your animals please contact a veterinarian first.

#13. Water

We like to have soapy, warm water on hand for quick cleanups. Any water bucket will work for this. You will be surprised at how much you will use this.

#14. Baby monitor

This will help you to listen for clues when your goat is pushing. Having a baby monitor can be really helpful allowing you to stay out of the barn until kidding is starting. I find not all goats will kid if they have me hovering over them. To give them space a monitor is a great tool to have.

#15. Video monitor

If you have internet access, this is even better than a baby monitor because you can actually watch your goats without making them nervous. A Video monitor is a great tool if you get internet where your goats are housed.

#16. Selenium

If you live in an area where selenium is deficient, you will want to have Selenium Gel. Just squirt a dose in each kid’s mouth to help them get a good start in life. Be sure to follow the advice of your vet before using.

#17. Molasses

Let’s face it: giving birth is hard work for moms and kids, and sometimes a boost of energy can help. We like to use Pure Blackstrap Molasses to give a little sugar boost if needed. You can add it to water for mom or rub some on her gums. Goats love the taste, so it is easy to give.

Extra goat kidding kit items

These items are not necessary, but they are good to have just in case a problem arises.

#1. Leg Snare – If kids need repositioning or help coming out, a Leg Snare will help you keep the legs in the proper position during delivery.

#2. Feeding tube – If kids have a rough delivery and are too weak to eat, you may need to intervene by using a feeding tube and syringe. Be sure to ask a vet how to use this before trying it on your own. You can harm or kill a goat kid if done incorrectly.

#3. Thermometer – I like to have a digital thermometer in case I have an issues with a sick goat.

#4. Colostrum – In an emergency, having kid colostrum replacement can be a life saver. Sometimes, you may have a doe that does not bag up or produce milk or colostrum. Having a replacer is crucial in these cases.

Manna Pro Colostrum Supplement for Newborn Goat Kids | Formulated with Vitamins and Minerals | Helps Promote Healthy Development | 16oz TRUSTI Tuber Feeding Tube for Lamb, Kid Goat and Cria by Antahi – Premium Colostrum Feeder with Flexible, Gentle Tube. 8.1 oz Capacity. Designed for One Handed Use. Safe and Easy to Use – Vet Designed Berrcom Digital Thermometer for Adults,Oral and Underarm Thermometer for Baby and Kids Medical Thermometer with Fever Alarm C/F Switchable Rectal Thermometer with Soft Tips AGRI PRO ENTERP Lamb & Pig Puller ECON #390001

Remember, please contact a Vet if you are unsure how to use any of the items listed above.

One of the best ways to be prepared for kids is to have on hand a fully stocked goat birthing kit. This goat kidding supplies list will help you stock your kit and get one step closer to a successful kidding.