Putting Together A Goat Birthing Kit

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Putting together a goat birthing kit is a great way to prep for kidding season and helps to make the waiting part a littler easier. Spring is a busy time when you raise goats and being prepared will help you to get through the highs and lows without getting to overwhelmed.

Over the years, I have learned that Goat breeding and kidding seasons are easier when you are prepared, and one of the best ways is to have a fully stocked kit nearby and ready to go.

goat birthing kit

There’s something undeniably adorable about babies—especially baby goats. If you’ve seen those videos of little kids hopping around like tiny, springy beans, you know exactly what I mean. And if you’re lucky enough to have goats of your own, then you already know how entertaining and joyful they are to watch and raise.

During my first year of raising goats, I was excited but completely unprepared. Never in my wildest dreams did I expect to face problems with our pregnant does.

I thought I was ready. I devoured articles about possible complications and even watched a handful of online videos of goat deliveries. But when it came to actually being prepared, I had nothing—no tools, no supplies, not a single thing.

All I had on hand was my cell phone and a couple of towels and when my very first doe struggled to deliver her kid, I was completely lost and helpless. Heartbreakingly, the outcome was not a good one.

Now, with many successful kidding seasons behind me, I’ve learned the hard way that preparation is everything. Problems can arise, and being ready for anything can make all the difference.

baby goat kid looking at the camer in a barn

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. 

Being prepared is everything.

When it comes to goat kidding season, preparation should start well before any of your goats go into labor. Having all the tools and supplies you might need gathered and within reach will help you handle whatever surprises come your way.

One of the smartest ways to get ready is by putting together a well-stocked birthing kit.

Over the years, I’ve encountered just about every goat kidding scenario you can imagine. Trust me—it’s always better to be prepared for the unexpected than to find yourself scrambling for supplies at a critical moment.

What is a goat birthing kit? 

A goat birthing kit is a container, like a sturdy tote or bucket, stocked with essential supplies to assist a doe during kidding. Having this kit nearby ensures you’re ready with everything you might need to help deliver healthy, thriving kids.

It’s a simple yet crucial tool for making the kidding process smoother and more successful.

totes in a feed room one labeled goat birthing kit

The History of Kidding Success

Before we begin, it’s important to remember this: 95% of goat kiddings go smoothly without any complications. This is an important fact to keep in mind. Your role is to observe, not to intervene unless absolutely necessary. Trust your doe to handle the process on her own, but stay nearby and ready to assist if the unexpected arises.

If you are not quite sure when your goat is going to kid, jump over to my article on GOAT KIDDING SIGNS. This thorough list and helpful video will show you what to watch for so you are ready when the time comes. 

Putting together a goat birthing kit

The list I am going to share with you is pretty thorough. While some items may never be needed, I’ve learned that preparing for the worst can save valuable time in those rare moments when things take an unexpected turn. It’s always better to have what you need close at hand than to be caught off guard.

1. Paper Towels can be quite handy for cleaning your hands and kids’ faces immediately after birth. Goat kids are born with fluids all over their bodies, and it is important to clean out their noses and mouths so they can breathe easier. Using your hands is the natural way to do this, and paper towels will help you dry off quickly. 

2. Gloves. Sterile gloves need to be worn in the event you need to assist with kidding. The gloves will also help to keep your hands dry so you can be more efficient with your aid as well. 

3. Betadine surgical scrub. This is used to wash your hands if you need to assist with delivery. Never put your hands inside of your doe to adjust a kid without cleaning your hands first and applying some kind of lubrication. 

4. Dental floss. Used to tie off the umbilical cord to keep dirt from going in before it seals closed. This needs to be done soon after kidding.

5. Scissors. Used to cut the umbilical cord once it is tied off.

6. Iodine or Triodine. Used for dipping umbilical cords once they are tied off and cut. I would also have an old pill bottle. Iodine is staining, and by having a small bottle to hold only what you need to dip a newborn kid’s cord, you will keep some of the mess to a minimum.

You can also use a shot glass to pour in iodine, but be sure it is plastic. 

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7. Old towels. I like to have a few in my tote to help dry off kids. This can be crucial, especially if you have goat kids that are born in the winter months. Usually, if it’s warm enough, I will allow momma to do the cleanup since this is an important part of the bonding process. If, however, temperatures are really cold, you may want to help a bit here. Frostbite can happen quite fast, especially with newborn kids, so get them dried off quickly if it’s cold out.

8. A flashlight or headlamp. This is very helpful, especially if delivery happens at night or in an area with poor lighting.

9. Bulb syringe. This is used to help clean out noses and airways so goat kids can breathe on their own more quickly. 

10. A clean, empty pop bottle and a Pritchard Nipple are used in case you have to bottle-feed a goat kid. Most goat owners will introduce a nipple very early to ensure if a bottle is needed later, the baby goat kid is at least familiar with the feel and texture.

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11. Your vet’s phone number. I cannot stress enough the importance of having help. If you live in an area that does not have a goat vet, then at the very least, find an experienced goat friend you can rely on. Have either your vet’s or friend’s number pre-set into your phone and also written on your tote.

baby goats lying on a patch of hay in a birthing stall

Keep Your Vet in the Loop

It’s true that finding a large animal vet can be tough in some areas. Even so, building a relationship with your local vet is always a smart move. Many vets have a good understanding of livestock care and are happy to offer guidance when you need it.

I like to take it a step further by touching base with my vet before kidding season starts. Giving them a heads-up can make all the difference, especially if your doe decides to kid in the middle of the night and you end up needing advice.

I’ll never forget one challenging delivery I faced when I had a doe who could not get the kid out. My vet stayed on the phone with me, guiding me step by step through the process.

She kept me calm, gave clear instructions, and wasn’t afraid to give me a little tough love when I needed it. Thanks to her support, I delivered a very large kid safely, with no harm to him or his mother. That experience taught me just how invaluable a vet’s guidance can be.

SLCG Pro Tip: If you find yourself in a situation that you are not comfortable with, CALL YOUR VET. They are there for a reason, and having them come out for an emergency farm call is not going to be nearly as expensive as losing your kids and possibly your doe as well. Be prepared, yes, but ask for help if you need it.

12. Storey’s Barn Guide to Sheep. It might sound unconventional, but Storey’s Barn Guide to Sheep is my go-to resource for goat kidding. While it’s technically written for sheep, this book has proven to be an invaluable tool when it comes to delivering goat kids.

One of the standout features is the section detailing the various positions in which a kid can present during birth. This part of the book is incredibly helpful for visualizing how a kid might be positioned inside the doe. If you find yourself in the unusual situation of needing to intervene and adjust the kid’s position, the clear explanations and diagrams in this guide make the process much easier to understand.  

 A book on SHEEP sitting on a table

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. A few empty feed bags. Having a few empty feed bags on hand can be a real lifesaver during kidding. Kidding can get messy, with fluids and other debris, and these bags offer a quick solution to manage the mess. You can use them to create a dry space for newborn kids before moving them onto warm hay. It’s a simple yet practical way to keep things under control and ensure the little ones stay comfortable in their first moments.

14. OB lube. This is used just in case you need to go in and adjust or turn a goat kid. In a pinch, betadine can be used as well. Remember to always wear gloves, and only intervene if absolutely necessary. Keep in mind that going in to reposition a kid comes with risks, such as potentially causing internal tears or injuries to the doe. Proceed with caution and gentleness to ensure the safety of both the mother and her kid.

SLCG Pro Tip: If you need to go internally to help reposition a kid, be sure to use caution so you do not damage the doe. As a precaution, we like to administer penicillin after internal procedures at the advice of our vet. Be sure to contact your vet on how to administer and what dosage to give.

two newborn brown goats snuggling up in a pen

15. Bucket of warm and soapy water. A bucket of warm, soapy water can be a surprisingly handy tool during kidding. I used one for the first time last year and was amazed at how often it came in handy. Kidding can get messy, and having a way to clean up is a convenience you’ll appreciate.

Using a bucket with a lid is a great idea to keep the water warm for longer. Personally, we use an old ice cream bucket—it’s the perfect size and super practical.

16. Baby monitor. This item is not meant to be kept in the goat birthing kit but rather in the barn before kidding even starts. The one I have linked to here is the exact one I own and will reach up to 1000 feet.

We can’t always stay in the barn around the clock, but using a baby monitor can make life a lot easier. It allows you to hear the telltale signs of labor without continually disturbing your goats. The sound of a doe “pushing” is distinct and easy to recognize, so you’ll know when it’s time to check on her.

During my first year, I made the mistake of heading to the barn every single hour, day and night. Not only did it leave me completely drained, but it also made my goats uneasy with all the interruptions.

Most goats are perfectly capable of delivering on their own and, in fact, some prefer it. By giving them space and only stepping in when absolutely necessary, you help keep the kidding process calm and stress-free—for both you and your goats.

a mom goat with her 2 newborn kids in a barn stall

17. Selenium Gel. Our area is very deficient in Selenium, so we always give our newborn kids a Selenium supplement gel.

Selenium can be a game-changer for a newborn goat—it’s that important. But here’s the thing, you’ve got to handle it with care. Before giving any supplements, check with your County Extension office and veterinarian to see if your goats actually need Selenium and to nail down the right dosage.

Giving too much Selenium can be dangerous, especially for little kids, so take the time to do your homework, and always run your plan past your vet, even for over-the-counter meds. Also, keep in mind that there are different Selenium gels for adult goats and kids. Make sure you’re using the right one so your goats can stay safe and healthy.

Selenium Deficiency US Map

18. Pure blackstrap molasses. This is used mainly for your doe but can be used on kids if needed. Packed with natural sugars, it’s great for giving a quick energy boost to an exhausted doe. You can offer it as is or mix it into a bucket of warm water.

Molasses is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nourishing option for replenishing your goat’s fluids and energy. It can also help manage ketosis, a condition that sometimes occurs during late pregnancy or shortly after delivery.

SLCG Pro Tip: If you have never given molasses water to your goats before, you may want to offer it before they kid. This will ensure they know what it is and will be more likely to take it when offered.

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Extra goat kidding kit items

These items aren’t must-haves, but they’re great to have on hand in case something unexpected comes up. While you might not need them, having these extras ready can save you stress and give you peace of mind during kidding. It’s always better to be prepared than caught off guard when time is of the essence.

a mom goat with her young kids eating hay in a stall

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. 

1. Leg snare. This will help you to keep the legs in the proper position during delivery. It will also help to pull a kid if the doe is having a difficult time delivering.

Sometimes things get very wet and slippery and your hands just can’t get a grip. With a snare like this, you will ensure you have a good hold on the kid. 

SLCG Pro Tip: If you help to pull a goat kid, be sure to use steady pressure, working with the contraction as your doe as one. Keep the angle at 45 degrees and encourage your goat to remain standing as you pull with her push. If done correctly, you can assist with delivery with less risk of harm to the goat or to her kid.

2. Kid Puller Different than a leg snare, this tool will help in those cases where the kid is just too big for your goat to deliver without your help. A kid puller is basically a loop or snare on one end with a handle on the other.

You place the loop over the kid’s head and feet (it is incredibly important you have all three in the loop before you pull!) and gently pull at a 45-degree angle. Again, be sure the goat is standing, and you are pulling gently with her pushes. 

a black and white goat giving birth to a kid

3. A digital thermometer. This is good to have on hand in case you have an issue with a sick goat. Knowing if you are dealing with a high temperature or a low temperature is vital when deciding on treatment. A goat’s normal temperature is 101.5-103.5.

4. Kid Colostrum supplement. In an emergency, this is another essential item to have on hand. It is important to get colostrum into newborn kids, preferably within 20 minutes of delivery, but you do have up to 2 hours.

The sooner they drink that first milk from their mother, the better chance they will have at the healthiest of starts.

Colostrum is full of vital nutrients that baby goat kids must have to thrive. If for some reason there is a medical emergency with the doe and she is unable to feed her kids you can give this replacement in her place. Hopefully, you will never need this, but it is nice to have on hand just in case.

goat kid nursing dairy goat birthing kit

5. Feeding Tube and Syringe. A feeding tube and syringe can be lifesavers for kids too weak to nurse on their own. I always try everything I can to help my kids latch and nurse before reaching for the feeding tube, but there are moments when it becomes necessary to step in with this tool.

When I do use a feeding tube, I prefer inserting it through the nasal passage—a technique I learned from my vet. It’s absolutely critical to make sure the tube reaches the stomach and not the lungs, as incorrect placement can seriously endanger the kid’s life.

Here’s a handy trick my vet taught me to double-check the placement. Once the tube is inserted, place your hand gently on the kid’s belly and blow into the tube. If you feel the belly inflate slightly, you’re in the right spot. Taking the time to confirm proper placement can make all the difference for a weak goat kid.

Know your Local Vet

Having a solid relationship with your veterinarian can make all the difference when caring for your goats. During my first few seasons, I had my vet come out for an afternoon to teach me how to handle some key procedures. This hands-on help gave me the confidence to do them myself over time.

Some of the skills I picked up included taking blood, giving both intramuscular and subcutaneous shots, tube feeding, and even dehorning. If you don’t have a goat vet nearby, don’t worry. Reach out to your local extension office or your local 4-H chapter—they’re great resources and can often point you toward someone reliable to call when needed.

a vet holding a baby goat in one arm and medication in her hand

6. Warming hut. If you have kids in the winter months, having a place to keep the newborn kids that is safe and warm can be a lifesaver. You can use a small dog crate with plenty of straw or cut a hole in a plastic tote and fill it with bedding.

Since I have birthing stalls in my barn, I have found that when plenty of hay is down and momma is close to her kids, they stay quite warm. If it is below freezing I will also add a heat lamp, but please be sure to use every precaution when using one.

More fires start in barns with heat lamps, so it is important to double and triple-check your setup to ensure everything is secure and safely installed. Use heat lamps at your own risk.

an american nubian goat in a goat stall of a barn

Read our guide on Setting up a kidding stall so you can have a private and quiet area for your doe and her newborn kids.

Being prepared for goat kidding season can go a long way to keeping you calm and your goat calm as well. It is only natural to be nervous but please remember that only a small percentage of deliveries require intervention.

Check out our list of Goat Kidding Supplies as well as our library of resources on how to raise dairy goats for all the information you need to raise a healthy and hardy herd.

Allow your goats to deliver on their own and just be ready for assistance if needed. Goats have been having kids for many years on their own and alone. You are only there to support and in the rare instance to assist.

By having a goat birthing kit with you and being ready to go, you will be able to deal with any situation if it should arise.

More Goat Kidding Resources:

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