How to Feed Bottle Baby Goats: An Easy Guide for Beginners

Feeding bottle baby goats might seem like a big challenge at first, but it’s really not, I promise! These little ones, often orphaned or rejected by their mothers, need extra care and attention to grow up healthy and strong. With the right tools and know-how, you’ll be able to meet their nutritional needs and nurture them during this critical stage. If you're just starting out with goats, you might find it helpful to check out Raising Dairy Goats for Beginners: Choosing Your Perfect Breed for tips on selecting breeds that fit your homestead goals. Let's make the process easier and get those baby goats thriving!

Preparing for Bottle Feeding

When it comes to how to feed bottle baby goats, preparation is everything. Whether you're stepping in to help orphaned kids or supporting a struggling mother goat, having the right setup ensures those little ones get the best start possible. Let’s break it down step by step so you’re ready to go when feeding time rolls around.

Reasons for Bottle Feeding

Bottle feeding isn’t always part of your goat care plan, but sometimes life throws a curveball. Here are the most common scenarios where you might need to step in:

• Orphaned kids: These situations arise when a goat dies during or after birthing. It’s heartbreaking, but bottle feeding ensures the babies get the nutrition they need.
• Maternal rejection: Occasionally, a first-time mom (or even an experienced one) will reject one or more kids. It may sound harsh, but this behavior isn’t uncommon—it’s nature’s way of ensuring survival under tough conditions.
• Fostering situations: You might be helping a neighbor with an orphan or taking in an extra kid to balance milk supply and demand in your herd.

Understanding these reasons helps you prepare both emotionally and practically for the challenges ahead. If you’re new to goats, you might find 10 Tips for Buying Your First Goat useful for long-term goat care success.

Essential Supplies for Bottle Feeding

Feeding bottle baby goats requires the right tools and products. Here’s a quick list to get you started:

1. Bottles and nipples: Choose bottles and nipples designed for livestock or repurpose baby bottles. For my large dairy goat kids, my favorite is the Pritchard nipples or the tan colored ones in the picture above, both of which fit on a pop bottle. Ensure the nipples fit snugly; a proper size prevents frustration (for both you and the goat!). If you're feeding multiple kids, you can also buy buckets with multiple nipples on them to make feeding easier.
2. Milk or milk replacer: The best option is raw goat milk; the next best is raw cow milk. If neither is available, use whole cow milk from the store. If that isn't an option, invest in a high-quality goat-specific formula.
3. Measuring supplies: If you're feeding goat or cows milk, then a measuring cup will suffice. (I just eyeball it based on the bottle size, though.) If you're feeding milk replacer, you'll need the scoop that comes in the back, plus a measuring cup.
4. Microwave or hot water: Goats prefer their milk comfortably warm—think “baby bottle warm.” A microwave or a simple bowl of hot water works great.

Setting Up a Clean Feeding Area

Creating a feeding space that’s both clean and calm is a game changer for successful bottle feeding. Here are some tips to get it right:

• Choose a quiet spot: Baby goats are easily startled, so a low-traffic area works best. Keep them away from a lot of distractions when you're first trying to get them to nurse.
• Clean feeding gear: Always clean bottles and nipples after each use to prevent bacteria from
• Designate a “waiting area”: If you’re feeding multiple kids by hand, you may want to set up a separate area to either feed them in or to have other babies wait in. It's not such a big deal when they are brand new, but they learn to jump and butt each other off the bottle very quickly.

With these basics in place, bottle feeding will go much more smoothly for you and your babies.

What to Feed Bottle Baby Goats

Feeding bottle baby goats is about more than just filling a bottle with milk and calling it a day. To truly thrive, these little ones need a diet that matches their unique nutritional needs. Let’s look at the feeding options available and how to navigate them so you can give your kids the best possible start.

Why Goat Milk is Ideal

When it comes to what to feed bottle baby goats, you can’t go wrong with goat milk. Think of it as the perfect baby formula—but straight from nature. Goat milk mirrors the nutritional needs of baby goats, providing the right balance of fat, protein, and essential vitamins.

Beyond nutrients, it’s also easier for baby goats to digest compared to other options. If you have access to fresh, raw goat milk, you’re already ahead of the game. It’s nutrient-packed and tailor-made for goat kids, so they process it perfectly without any tummy issues.

But what if goat milk isn't readily available? No need to panic! There are other options that work well, too. Curious about storing any excess milk for future needs? Be sure to check out Can You Freeze Raw Milk? for freezing and thawing tips so nothing goes to waste.

What About Cow's Milk for Baby Goats?

You might wonder, can you use regular cow's milk to feed bottle baby goats? The short answer is yes! You'll see all kinds of recipes online for modifying cow's milk for baby goats, but here's the thing… I never have.

I've raised a LOT of bottle baby goats on cow's milk, and I've never modified it once. All my babies grow out well, strong and healthy. I've used it for does that I've kept back for herd replacements as well, and they never have any problems from having been raised on cow's milk.

If you have access to fresh, raw cow's milk, that is the best option, but whole milk from the grocery store works equally as well. Feed it in the same amounts as you would goat milk.

Using Milk Replacer Formulas

First of all, remember, I'm not a vet. Always, always consult a vet for medical advice for your goats. That being said, here's my opinion on goat milk replacers, lol. Every single time except once that I've used goat milk replacer, I've ended up with a kid or kids that didn't do well. Milk replacers, for me, have been a fast track to scours and unthrifty kids.

Now, I realize that is not everyone's experience, and milk replacer can be a life saver if you don't have any other options. And in full disclosure, I did raise one bottle baby buck on milk replacer and he did ok. He always looked like a bottle baby with a milk belly, but I used him for several years in my herd and he didn't seem to have any long term problems.

All that being said, my first recommendation will ALWAYS be goat milk and then cow milk for these bottle kids. If neither of those are an option, then here are some guidelines for using milk replacers.

Choose a high-quality, goat-specific replacer for the best results. The keyword here is goat-specific. Why? Generic options (like “all-livestock” or “all-species”) or recipes meant for calves or lambs often lack the nutrients required for goat kids—and can cause digestive upset.

Here’s what to look for when browsing milk replacer brands:

• Protein content: Aim for a formula with at least 20% or more protein. 25% is better
• Fat levels: Look for at least 20-25% fat for proper energy and growth.
• No weird additives: Avoid anything with unnecessary fillers or antibiotics unless recommended by your vet.

Stick with brands trusted by veterinarians or long-time homesteaders. LAND O LAKES® Doe’s Match® Kid Milk Replacer is one that I've heard good things about but have never found available near me and have never personally tried it. Always mix the formula according to label instructions—too much powder can overwhelm their system, while too little won’t meet nutritional needs.

Transitioning Between Milk Types

Sometimes, life throws a curveball—maybe you run out of goat milk, or your supplier suddenly dries up. Don’t worry; transitioning between milk types is doable with a little planning.

The good news is that fresh raw cow's milk and fresh raw goat's milk are basically interchangeable. I've never had any trouble switching back and forth between the two.

To switch up your feeding process for other options, though, go slow and steady. Mixing new milk with the current type in smaller increments helps their digestive system adjust. Think of it as weaning them off the old milk blend. Start with 75% of the current milk and 25% of the new addition, then gradually increase the ratio of the new milk over a week.

If your bottle baby starts having scours or diarrhea, that's a sign that you're transitioning them too quickly and you'll need to go even slower.

Patience is key when transitioning to a different type of milk. Rushing the change could upset their digestion and leave you with sick baby goats—not what any of us wants!

Feeding bottle baby goats doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding their nutritional needs and keeping their health a priority, you'll be well-prepared to help them thrive.

How Much to Feed Bottle Baby Goats

Feeding bottle baby goats is a balancing act—you want to ensure they’re getting enough nutrients to grow, but you also need to avoid giving too much at once, which can upset their little tummies. Understanding how much to feed based on their age is the first step toward raising healthy, happy kids. Let’s break it down so you can feel confident with those bottles in hand.

Feeding Quantities by Age

How much milk should your baby goats get? This depends on their age and weight. A good rule of thumb is to aim for up to 20% of their body weight in milk per day, divided into multiple feedings.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown by age:

• Newborns (0-1 week): Brand new babies need frequent, small feedings. Now, if you're feeding a Nigerian Dwarf kid, it will need less milk than say a big Nubian kid. For my full size dairy kids I usually start with around 4oz every 4 hours (yes, even overnight!) and see how they act to that. The first few feedings they may not drink it all, and that is totally fine! They have little tummies that need fed frequently. A Nigerian Dward kid may only take 2oz a feeding.
  • Colostrum, which is the thick, nutrient-rich first milk from their mother or a colostrum replacer, is critical during the first 24-48 hours. It helps boost their immune system and gives them a healthy start. If you don't have colostrum from a goat or cow, then you can get a colostrum replacer at most ag supply stores, but fresh is best.
• 1 Week to 3 Weeks: Gradually increase the amount they’re receiving per feeding while reducing the number of feedings per day. By week one, my big dairy kids can handle around 8 ounces, 4 times a day and I gradually increase that to 16oz 3 times a day by the time they are a month old. Keep their milk warm and their feeding routine consistent—they thrive on routine just like human babies!
• 4 Weeks to Weaning (8-12 weeks): By 4 weeks old, your baby goats’ stomachs are growing, and they’ll be eating more. My dairy kids I feed 16 ounces per feeding, 3 times a day for several weeks. Once they get around 8 weeks old, I drop that to twice a day, then to once a day around 10 weeks until I wean. Your kids will start eating grain and hay during this period which helps to develop their rumens, the part of their stomach that digests solid food. By the time they’re ready to wean at 8-12 weeks, you’ll find they’re eating more solid feed and drinking less milk. Some kids will even wean themselves.

If you’re making adjustments or unsure about your goat’s nutritional needs, remember to monitor their weight and overall health. Healthy kids are active, curious, and steadily gaining weight. If they appear thin or lethargic, double-check those feeding amounts.

If you want a nice handy dandy chart, check out this great one from Cornell University that is weight based.

Signs of Feeding Issues

It’s important to know the signs of underfeeding and overfeeding so you can adjust your goat’s feeding routine as needed. Baby goats are pretty communicative—they’ll tell you something is wrong if you know what to look for.

Signs of Underfeeding

Is your kid acting unsatisfied or crying excessively even after being fed? Here are some common symptoms of underfeeding:

• Lethargy: A baby goat that’s too weak to stand or move may not be getting sufficient milk.
• Slow growth: If they’re not gaining weight consistently or appear smaller compared to their peers.
• Persistent bleating: This often means they’re hungry and not receiving enough milk per feeding. (sometimes this just means they are lonely and want you to come visit them though, lol)

If you suspect your goat isn’t eating enough, adjust their bottle size or frequency. However, don’t switch things up too suddenly—goats need time to adjust to changes in their routine.

Signs of Overfeeding

Feeding too much can be just as harmful as feeding too little. Overfeeding leads to bloating or digestive problems like scours (diarrhea), which can be serious if not treated quickly. Watch for these signs of overfeeding:

• Distended belly: A bloated appearance could indicate they’ve been overfed.
• Loose stools: While occasional soft stool happens, frequent diarrhea is a red flag.
• Lethargy: Yes, lethargy can also be a symptom of overfeeding. It’s like when you eat too much at Thanksgiving and just want to lie down—it’s exhausting!

To prevent overfeeding, stick to recommended quantities and avoid offering extra milk just because they’re being cute (I know, it’s hard!). If you’re dealing with scours, reduce milk amounts temporarily and consider adding electrolytes to their water to help them stay hydrated while their digestion recovers.

Remember, bottle baby goats almost ALWAYS act hungry even if they are getting an appropriate amount of milk. They have the instinct to nurse on their mommas, and when they are raised on a bottle that need isn't met as much as it is if they were with their mommas. So bottle baby goat kids will always take an opportunity to suck on something whether that be a bottle or your fingers. (Watch those back teeth though, they are sharp!)

By keeping portions age-appropriate and watching for signs of over- or underfeeding, you’ll save yourself—and your bottle baby—a lot of trouble. Feeding bottle baby goats may take practice, but trust me, you’ll get the hang of it!

Bottle Baby Goats Feeding Schedule

Feeding bottle baby goats can seem overwhelming at first, but once you’ve got a routine in place, it’s smooth sailing. Just like human babies, goat kids thrive on consistency, and a structured feeding schedule is essential for their growth and health. Let's take a look at exactly when and how much to feed, along with tips for adjusting their schedule as they grow. Ready to set up a system that works? Let’s do it!

Feeding Schedule: Day One Through Weaning

Bottle baby goats require frequent, consistent feedings to ensure they grow healthy and strong. Their needs change as they mature, so let’s detail a schedule that works from day one to weaning time.

Day One:
For the first 24 hours, colostrum (the mother’s first milk or a high-quality colostrum replacer) is critical. It’s packed with antibodies that jumpstart their immune system. Feed at least every 4 hours, offering around 2-4 ounces per feeding, depending on the kid's size.

If you have a weak kid, one that had a hard time at birth, or one that just isn't picking up real fast, you may need to feed it every 2 hours instead of 4 hours, around the clock. I've found that most kids, even those that had a hard entry into the world, do fine being fed every 4 hours once you get over the initial hump.

Days 2-7 (Week One):
After the first day, you'll want to keep up frequent feedings of goat milk or a goat-specific milk replacer. Offer around 4-6 ounces per feeding (again, based on the size of your kid) and maintain a schedule of every 4 hours, or 6 times a day, even during the night. Keep their milk warm, around 100-102°F—the temperature a mother’s milk would naturally be.

Week 2-3:
At this stage, you can stretch feedings out a little. Offer 6-8 ounces per session, and reduce feedings to 4-5 times per day. Keep the feeding times spaced evenly; your goats will start to get into a rhythm. This is when you’ll notice their energy picking up—they’re starting to explore more and act like playful little goats! During week two, I stretch out their overnight feedings to 6 hours, then to 8 hours in week three.

Week 4-7:
Once they hit about four weeks old, you can scale back to 3-4 feedings per day, with each feeding being around 16 ounces (or less based on size of your kid). Begin introducing small amounts of grain and high-quality hay if your kids aren't out with other goats, to encourage rumen development (a crucial step in preparing them for solid food). Don’t worry if they only nibble at first—it's normal. Don't try to force it on them.

Week 8-12 (Weaning):
By now, they’re ready to transition. Gradually reduce the milk feedings to once a day, provided they’re eating hay, grain, and drinking water reliably. During this time, aim to taper milk to 8 ounces per feeding, eventually phasing it out altogether. By 12 weeks, many goat kids are fully weaned and thriving on a solid diet. If you notice your kid not wanting to drink their milk anymore, it may be that they are weaning themselves. Just follow their lead. 🙂

A quick tip: Use a consistent schedule. Goats are creatures of habit and will thrive when their feeding times are predictable.

Adjusting the Schedule for Older Kids

As baby goats grow, their nutritional needs shift. So, how do you adjust the feeding schedule without causing undue stress for you—or them? It’s all about gradual steps and knowing what milestones to look for.

1. Stretch the time between feedings gradually: Don’t suddenly cut back. Start by adding 1-2 hours between feeds each week. For example, if you’re feeding every four hours, switch to every six hours.
2. Increase milk volume per feeding: As you space feedings out, slightly increase the amount of milk they’re getting to make up for fewer sessions. Just keep an eye out for signs of overfeeding, such as bloating or scours (diarrhea).
3. Emphasize solids after 4 weeks: By this point, you want to encourage hay and grain consumption. Offer access to solid feed at all times so they can nibble and experiment as their rumens develop further.
4. Follow the goat's growth cues: If a kid is still hungry after transitioning to fewer feedings, they’ll let you know! Adjust as needed, but avoid the temptation to overdo it with milk—balancing their intake promotes healthy digestion and growth.

Adapting to changes isn’t hard when you’re observant and flexible. Just remember, a healthy goat is an energetic, curious one. By the time your kids are weaned, they’ll be eating with the grown-ups and ready to take on the world.

Sticking a bottle-feeding schedule helps set your kids up for success. (But don't stress if every once in a awhile you're a bit late, early, or have to skip a feeding altogether, they'll be just fine) With proper timing, consistent milk quantities, and gradual adjustments, you'll raise strong, happy goats that are ready to thrive on your homestead!

How to Feed Bottle Baby Goats Safely

These tiny animals depend entirely on you for their nourishment, so getting the right techniques down is key to their health and your peace of mind. Let's talk about some tips for feeding them safely.

Step-by-Step Feeding Guide

Getting the process right involves more than just filling a bottle and offering it to the baby goat. Here’s a straightforward guide to feeding bottle baby goats properly:

1. Milk Temperature: Baby goats are sensitive to temperature. The milk should always be warm—ideally between 100-102°F, which matches the temperature they would get from their mother's milk. Test it on your wrist, like you would for a human baby, to ensure it's not too hot or too cold. If your kid starts nursing with gusto but stops right away, usually it's the temperature to blame. Your kids will let you know if the temp is right or not, lol.
2. Positioning for Feeding: The way you hold the bottle matters. Keep the baby goat standing upright on all four legs, and never feed them on their back. This positioning helps prevent milk from accidentally entering their lungs, which could lead to pneumonia—a serious health risk.
   • Kids also naturally nurse with their head, neck, and body in a sort of a “z” shape. If you watch a kid nurse on their dams, they don't stand with the neck super stretched out up high. You want to mimic this with bottle feeding to ensure milk goes to the correct part of their stomach.
3. Monitor Intake Closely: Bottle baby goats, understandably, have enthusiastic appetites, but overfeeding can cause digestive issues. Stick to the recommended feeding amounts for their age and weight to avoid problems like bloating or scours (diarrhea).

Bottle feeding kids is a great way to bond with them, and some folks choose to pull kids and bottle feed if they plan to keep them back in their herd. Your goats will recognize your care and form a close connection with you, which is invaluable as they grow.

Cleaning Equipment

Cleanliness is non-negotiable when it comes to bottle-feeding goats. Their developing immune systems make them especially vulnerable to yucky stuff, so keeping bottles and nipples clean is crucial. Here’s a simple cleaning routine:

1. Wash Immediately After Use: Rinse bottles with warm water right after feeding to prevent milk residue from drying and becoming harder to clean.
2. Use Hot Soapy Water: Clean the bottles and nipples thoroughly with hot, soapy water, using a bottle brush for any hard-to-reach spots. Be sure to rinse off any soap.
3. Dry Completely: Allow bottles and nipples to air-dry on a clean towel in a dust-free area. Avoid using dish towels to wipe them, as this might introduce contamination.

Now, that's the correct way to keep your bottle feeding equipment clean. BUT, if we're being honest, I don't do that every single feeding. After feeding kids, I'll bring the bottles into the house and rinse off any dirt or slobber on the ouside of the bottles. Then…. I put them in the refrigerator until the next feeding. I've found as long as you wash them every couple of days, this option is just fine.

By sticking to proper feeding methods and hygiene, you’ll be well on your way to raising strong, thriving, bottle-fed kids.

Common Feeding Issues and Troubleshooting

Bottle baby goats can be quirky little eaters, and feeding them isn’t always a smooth process. From refusing the bottle to dealing with stomach troubles, these hiccups are part of the learning curve. Don’t stress—most issues are normal and very fixable! Let’s break down some of the most common feeding challenges.

Refusal to Bottle Feed: Diagnose Potential Causes and Solutions

Is your goat kid refusing the bottle? It might feel frustrating (and a little heart-wrenching), but don’t panic! There are several reasons why this might happen, and finding the root cause is key.

• Milk too hot or cold: Baby goats are picky about milk temperature. If it’s not between 100-102°F, they might flat-out refuse it. Test it on your wrist just like you would for a bottle-fed baby—warm, not hot!
• Unfamiliar nipple: Bottle nipples come in different shapes, and some kids take time to adjust to the one you’re providing. Try switching to a softer or differently shaped nipple to see if it makes feeding easier.
• Stress or fear: Have you just moved the kid to a new environment, or are there loud noises nearby? A stressed or scared goat might refuse to eat. Offer feed in a quiet setting where they feel calm.
• Weakness: If the goat is lethargic, they may lack the energy to feed. Start by checking their temperature. Try hand-expressing a couple drops of milk into their mouth—this can often spark their instinct to start suckling.
• Hypothermia: Do NOT bottle feed a baby goat whose temp is below 101 F. Their bodies cannot digest the milk properly. Warm babies to 101 F first, then feed. If you have a cold kid you can however, rub some karo syrup on their gums to give them a little energy boost.

Tip: Don’t force-feed a baby goat by squeezing the bottle too hard. This can lead to aspiration pneumonia, which is potentially life-threatening. Instead, keep trying gently until they latch on.

Managing Digestive Problems

Digestive issues can crop up even when you’re doing everything right. Two of the most common concerns for bottle baby goats are scours (diarrhea) and bloating. Knowing how to handle these situations can make all the difference.

• Scours: Loose stools are a sign that something’s off. It could be overfeeding, sudden milk transitions, or even milk replacer incompatibility. First, reduce the amount of milk you’re giving and try offering diluted electrolytes instead for 24 hours. This helps rehydrate while giving their belly a break. If you're using milk replacer, try switching to a different brand or switch to whole cow milk. If scours still persist, consult a vet for further treatment.
• Bloating: Look for a rounded, firm belly—it’s a clear indicator. Overfeeding or offering too much milk at once is the likely culprit here. Stop milk feedings temporarily and encourage the kid to move around, as light activity helps relieve gas buildup. You can also gently massage their belly to stimulate digestion. Also, a bottle baby is almost always going to have a bit of a rounded belly after feeding. This isn't bloat. This is just a full belly. Look for other symptoms that would indicate the kid doesn't feel well.

Frequent digestive issues? Double-check your feeding routine and ensure their milk isn’t being consumed too quickly, at the wrong temp, or in overly large amounts. These little changes often solve the problem.

When to Call a Vet

Signs of serious illness require immediate attention. How can you tell when it’s time to call in a professional? Here’s what to watch for:

• Dehydration: Dry gums, sunken eyes, or a lack of urination are red flags. Goats dehydrate quickly, especially with diarrhea, so reach out to a vet right away.
• Lethargy despite feeding changes: If your baby goat isn’t perking up even after adjusting their milk intake or addressing stress factors, they might have underlying health issues.
• Persistent scours or vomiting: Extended scours can lead to harmful nutrient loss, and vomiting isn’t typical for goats. Both are reasons to involve a vet without delay.
• Difficulty breathing: Labored breathing or coughing might indicate milk aspiration. It’s an emergency scenario and needs professional care ASAP.

When in doubt, trust your instincts. You know your animals best, and catching potential problems early is always wise.

Goat Weaning Best Practices

Weaning doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual transition that happens over a few weeks to make sure your goat remains healthy and stress-free. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Start Around 8 Weeks: Begin by cutting down on bottle feedings. Shift to just twice a day if you’re still feeding three or four times.
2. Encourage Solid Foods: Offer free access to high-quality alfalfa hay and small amounts of goat starter grain. They should already have been nibbling on these from week 4, so by now, their rumen will be developing nicely.
3. Reduce Milk Even Further (Around Week 10): Move to once-a-day feedings as long as your goat is steadily eating solid food and drinking water.
4. Fully Wean by Week 12: At this point, discontinue bottle feeding altogether. Most healthy goats are ready to depend entirely on solids by now. If not, take it slower—no rush!

Weaning is about patience. Keep a close eye on your goat to ensure it’s thriving during the transition. Regularly check for steady weight gain and healthy stool; these are signs everything’s going as it should.

You Got This!

Feeding bottle baby goats may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right information and tools, you’ve got this. Bottle feeding isn't just about nourishment—it's a chance to build trust, bond with your baby goats, and set them up for a healthy start to life. Keep in mind that every goat is unique, so adaptability and paying attention to their behavior will take you far.

By consistently following practical tips for milk preparation, feeding techniques, and maintaining hygiene, you’re already setting your little ones up for success. If the journey feels tricky, remember that even seasoned homesteaders and goat owners started right where you are—learning as they go. For more goat-care tips to streamline your process and build confidence in raising your herd, check out 10 Tips for Buying Your First Goat.

You’re never alone in this adventure, and every problem has a solution when approached with patience and persistence. Keep up the great work!