Goats in autumn and winter: how to provide a dry, draught-free shelter
, by Michael van Wassem, 4 min reading time
Goats are sensitive to damp and draughts. This is what a good shelter needs in autumn and winter.
A goat does not like standing in the rain. A sheep with a thick fleece often lets a shower pass over it, but a goat looks for a dry spot straight away. That is not fussiness: goats are sensitive to damp and draughts. With autumn starting, it is a good moment to take a critical look at your shelter.
Short answer: what does a goat need?
A good goat shelter is dry, draught-free, well ventilated and big enough for all the animals at once. There is dry bedding on a dry floor, a sheltered feeding spot and clean water that does not freeze. Always keep goats in groups of at least two: they are herd animals.
Why damp and draughts are the biggest problem
An open field without shelter is not suitable for goats. Rain and wind make the coat wet and cold, and a damp barn raises the risk of respiratory and hoof problems. This applies to sheep too, but goats suffer more. A shelter is not a luxury but a basic provision, even for small pygmy goats.
What should a good shelter offer?
- A dry roof and a dry floor. After a heavy shower, check whether water gets in anywhere.
- Wind protection. An open front is fine, as long as it does not face the prevailing wind.
- Ventilation without draughts. Fresh air should flow through the space, but not across lying animals.
- Enough space. All goats must be able to lie down at the same time, without the highest-ranking goat driving the others away. For exact dimensions, the current regulations apply: check with the relevant authorities.
- A safe layout. No sharp edges and no ropes or chains in which an animal can get tangled.
Do you want to build or move a shelter? Ask your local council which rules apply to your land.
Floor and bedding
A dry floor is good for the hooves. Replace wet patches quickly and keep the lying area dry, including the corners. Hoof care remains necessary at regular intervals; it is best to learn it from an experienced keeper or your vet.
Feed and water in the cold months
Goats are picky. They often leave feed that is dirty or wet. That is why a hay rack with a cover is common: it keeps hay off the ground and limits waste and contamination. A hay rack does not prevent disease, but it does save feed. Provide several feeding spots, because goats have a pecking order and a weaker animal can otherwise be pushed aside.
Water must be clean and must not freeze. In frosty weather, check daily whether there is ice in the water container.
Goats and sheep together: watch the copper
Goats need more copper than sheep, while sheep are sensitive to too much copper. A mineral mix for goats can therefore contain too much copper for sheep. If you keep both species together, ask a feed adviser or vet for advice and never simply give minerals meant for another species.
Climbing and escaping
Goats are curious, clever and good climbers. They open latches and look for weak spots. A raised platform or a tree trunk is good enrichment, but check that it does not help them over the fence. No fence is completely escape-proof; sturdy fencing and secure latches reduce the risk.
Note: a heat lamp, for example for a weak kid, is a fire risk. Fix it securely and out of reach of bedding and animals.
Checklist: is your shelter ready for winter?
- The roof and walls are sound and no water gets in.
- The floor and bedding are dry.
- There is ventilation, but no draught where the animals lie.
- All goats can lie down at the same time.
- There are several feeding spots and a hay rack.
- Drinking water is clean and frost-free.
- There are no sharp edges, ropes or chains.
- Fencing and latches have been checked.
Frequently asked questions
Is a field shelter enough, or does a goat need a barn?
A field shelter can be enough if it is dry and draught-free and all the goats fit inside. In winter, a more enclosed barn is often more comfortable. If in doubt, ask your vet or an experienced keeper.
Can a goat be kept alone?
No, the advice is to keep goats in groups of at least two. They are social herd animals.
Do I have to register my goats?
Rules on registration and identification apply and can change. Check with the relevant authorities in your country.
Summary
Goats suffer from damp and draughts. Provide a dry, draught-free shelter with enough space, several feeding spots, a hay rack and frost-free water. Watch the copper if you also keep sheep, and check fencing and safety. For health questions, consult your vet.
Sources: Gezondheidsdienst voor Dieren (the Dutch animal health service), Wageningen University & Research and RVO.
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