Goat Treats Recipe
A good goat treats recipe can be the perfect way to bond with your animals while providing them with extra vitamins and energy. Treats are also helpful for training goats to come when called or jump up onto a milk stand.
Raising dairy goats is a rewarding experience, but it comes with the responsibility of keeping your herd happy and healthy. By giving them nutritious, homemade treats, you will raise healthy and hard animals.
When I first started raising our goats, the only treats, I quickly found out how much they love food. So much so, in fact, that they would nuzzle my hands and pockets to see if I was packing anything good for them to nibble on.
Goats are some of the most curious animals you can raise; I like to call them nosey. If there is a noise or any movement at all, they are going to come over to investigate.
It is that curiosity and love of food that allows you to not only bond with your herd but train them to listen and behave safely.
Why Give Treats to Goats?
Giving your goats treats is a really fun way to connect with your herd. Not only do treats help you build trust with them, but they can also give your goats a little boost of vitamins, minerals, or fiber.
Building trust with your herd will help to make other parts of their care easier for everyone involved. Things like milking, hoof care, shots, and kidding are all safer and easier to do with a goat that you have bonded with.
Another reason for treats is giving medication. Hide a pill in a banana and you will be more successful getting into your goat!
Just keep in mind that treats are exactly that—a treat.
They should never take the place of their regular diet, which includes hay, pasture, forage, and plenty of fresh water.
Safe and Beneficial Foods for Goats
There are many healthy options when it comes to goat treats. Here’s a list of some safe and nutritious foods your goats will love:
- Fruits – Apples (without seeds), bananas (peels too), pears, watermelons, and berries are all excellent choices. These fruits are full of natural sugars that can give your goats energy, along with essential vitamins. Just remember to remove seeds and pits from fruits like apples and pears, as they can be harmful.
Goats love banana peels! Even more so than slices. Keep peels in a baggie so they last longer and give strips to your goats.
- Vegetables – Carrots, celery, cucumbers, pumpkin, squash, and sweet potatoes are great options. These veggies are packed with fiber and vitamins that support healthy digestion.
- Grains – Rolled oats, barley, and cracked corn are also good treats. They provide a nice energy boost but should be fed sparingly to avoid upsetting their stomachs.
- Herbs – Some fresh herbs like mint, parsley, and oregano are safe and even beneficial for goats. They can naturally support digestion and overall wellness.
- Tree branches and leaves – Goats love to nibble on tree branches and leaves. Just make sure the trees aren’t toxic to goats, such as yew or rhododendron.
Goats love fresh leaves so much; they are just like treats! Many times, I have used leaves to train our herds, and they work almost better than any of the others.
- Garlic – A small amount of garlic can provide immune-boosting benefits for goats. Just be sure to feed it in moderation.
- Commercial goat treats – There are also many specially formulated goat treats available on the market. These are a convenient option and may offer additional benefits, such as added vitamins and minerals.
Manna Pro Bite-Size Nuggets for Horses – Pocket Sized Training Horse Treats – Apple Flavored Treats – Packs with Vitamins & Minerals- Great Taste Guaranteed – 4lbs
Manna Pro Goat Treats – Made with Oatmeal – Daily Goat Treats – Licorice Flavor – 6 Pounds of Goat TreatsManna Pro Goat Treats, Apple, 6 Lb
Foods to Avoid
Not all treats are safe for goats, so avoid foods that can harm their health. Here’s a quick list of what to steer clear of:
- Toxic plants like rhubarb, azaleas, and oleander.
- Human junk food such as chips, candy, or highly processed snacks.
- Chocolate (it’s toxic to many animals, including goats).
- Avocado (contains persin, which is harmful to goats).
- Moldy or spoiled food, as it can upset their stomachs or even cause poisoning.
When in doubt, stick to wholesome, fresh, and natural foods.
Goat Treats Recipe
Treat your goats to a special homemade snack that’s both delicious and nutritious. This simple recipe ensures your goats enjoy a healthy treat without any harmful ingredients.
Now that you know what makes a good goat treat, here are two simple and nutritious recipes you can try at home.
1. Carrot-Oat Goat Bites
These little bites are a great way to treat your goats to a healthy snack!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the oats, grated carrots, applesauce, and honey in a bowl until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small balls or press them into a mini muffin tin.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until firm. Allow to cool completely before serving to your goats.
2. Pumpkin-Parsley Snack Bars
These bars are packed with fiber and a hint of herbal freshness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked pumpkin (or canned, unsweetened pumpkin purée)
- 1 cup rolled barley or oats
- 1/2 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup molasses
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Combine the pumpkin, barley or oats, parsley, and molasses in a bowl. Mix until it forms a sticky dough.
- Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, pressing to flatten into an even layer about 1/2 inch thick.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, then remove and allow to cool.
- Cut into small squares and serve as a treat.
Giving your goats homemade treats is a fun and creative way to show them some love while making sure they stay healthy and happy. Whether you’re baking up a batch of carrot-oat bites or chopping up fresh fruits and herbs, your goats will appreciate the extra care and attention.
Just remember to always feed treats in moderation alongside their usual diet to keep them healthy without putting on extra weight.
More Goat Care Reads:
- What are the Best Minerals for Goats
- What is the Best Hay to Feed Goats
- How to setup a Goat Feeding Schedule
