Goat Minerals
For breeding meat Kiko goats, it’s essential to provide a mineral supplement that meets their specific nutritional needs, particularly in terms of calcium, phosphorus, copper, and selenium. One highly recommended option is the Sweetlix Meat Maker 16:8 Mineral
Essential Minerals for Breeding Kiko Goats
1. Calcium and Phosphorus (Ca:P Ratio)
• Importance: Proper bone development, milk production, and reproduction.
• Recommendation: Maintain a 2:1 calcium-to-phosphorus ratio to prevent urinary calculi in bucks.
2. Selenium
• Importance: Supports reproductive health, reduces risk of white muscle disease in kids, and boosts immunity.
• Source: Selenium-enriched mineral supplements, especially in selenium-deficient areas.
3. Copper
• Importance: Improves fertility, coat health, and parasite resistance.
• Note: Kiko goats require higher copper levels than sheep but ensure the dosage is goat-specific to avoid toxicity.
• Supplement: Copper boluses or copper-enriched loose minerals.
4. Zinc
• Importance: Critical for hoof health, sperm production, and immune function.
• Source: Zinc sulfate or in high-quality mineral mixes.
5. Magnesium
• Importance: Supports nervous system health and proper metabolic functions.
• Source: Dolomite or magnesium sulfate in balanced minerals.
6. Iodine
• Importance: Supports thyroid function, fertility, and kid survival.
• Source: Iodized salt or mineral supplements.
7. Manganese
• Importance: Aids in reproduction and skeletal development.
• Source: Mineral supplements formulated for goats.
8. Salt (Sodium and Chloride)
• Importance: Encourages mineral intake, hydration, and overall health.
• Supplement: Loose salt or mineral blocks designed for goats.
9. Cobalt
• Importance: Necessary for Vitamin B12 synthesis, improving digestion and energy production.
• Source: Cobalt-enriched mineral mixes.
10. Sulfur
• Importance: Necessary for protein synthesis and hoof health.
• Source: Often included in balanced mineral mixes.
Highly Rated Goat Mineral Products
1. Sweetlix Meat Maker 16:8 Mineral
• Well-balanced and specifically designed for meat goats.
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals, including selenium and copper.
2. Purina Goat Mineral
• High-quality free-choice mineral with balanced calcium, phosphorus, copper, and selenium.
3. Manna Pro Goat Mineral
• Contains chelated minerals for better absorption and supports overall health and productivity.
4. Onyx Pro Goat Mineral
• High in copper and selenium, suitable for Kiko goats with higher copper needs.
5. Redmond Natural Goat Mineral Mix
• Organic, natural mineral mix that supports breeding and milk production.
Tips for Feeding Minerals
• Always provide minerals in loose form rather than blocks, as goats prefer loose minerals and can consume them more efficiently.
• Place minerals in a sheltered feeder to prevent contamination.
• Monitor intake to ensure goats consume adequate but not excessive amounts.
• Adjust mineral supplementation based on forage quality and soil deficiencies in your area
Sources cited in the recommendations: 1. Johnston Seed
• Sweetlix Meat Maker 16:8 Mineral Product Information
2. Sweetlix Official Website
• Sweetlix Meat Maker 16:8 Mineral Details
3. Purina Mills
• Mineral Nutrition for Goats
4. Thrifty Homesteader
• Guide on Choosing Goat Minerals
5. Me and Jorge
• Review of Goat Mineral Supplements
These sources provide detailed information about the mineral products and feeding practices discussed.