What happens after a goat kids: what we watch for on the farm

Kidding season is one of the most exciting and exhausting times on our farm. Seeing those new babies hit the ground never gets old. But once the babies arrive, our job isn’t over. The hours and days after kidding are actually some of the most important for both the doe and her kids.

There are several things we watch closely during this time to make sure everyone stays healthy.

Sometimes We Have to Assist

Most of the time does handle kidding on their own just fine. But sometimes things don’t always go perfectly and I have to step in and assist.

Occasionally a kid might come backwards, or two babies might get tangled up together trying to come out at the same time. When that happens I may need to carefully reposition a leg or help guide the baby out so the doe can finish delivering safely.

This is one of the reasons I watch our does closely when they are close to kidding. Catching a problem early can make a big difference and helps prevent exhaustion or injury to the doe.

Making Sure the Babies Nurse

The first thing we want to see is the babies getting up and nursing. That first milk, called colostrum, is extremely important. It’s packed with antibodies and nutrients that help give the babies their immune protection and energy during those first critical hours of life.

Sometimes babies figure this out quickly. Other times they need a little help finding the teat and learning how to latch.

Watching the Doe’s Udder

Another thing I keep a close eye on is the doe’s udder.

Sometimes babies will favor one side while ignoring the other. When that happens, the unused side can start to become very full and uncomfortable for the doe. If I notice that happening, I will milk out that side to relieve the pressure and help keep her comfortable.

Keeping the udder evenly emptied also helps maintain healthy milk production and prevents problems down the road.

Keeping an Eye on the Doe

After kidding, I also watch the doe’s behavior and appetite. A healthy doe will usually start cleaning her babies, talking to them, and eventually get up to eat and drink.

Offering warm molasses water after kidding is something I do because it helps replenish energy and encourages the doe to drink fluids after the work of labor.

I also watch to make sure she is eating hay again and moving around normally.

Checking the Babies

The babies get checked over as well. I make sure they are:

• Standing and moving around

• Nursing well

• Staying warm

• Active and alert

We also dip the umbilical cord in iodine to help prevent infection.

Every Kidding is Different

One thing about farming is that no two births are exactly the same. Some are quick and easy, while others require more attention. Experience teaches you what is normal and what might need intervention.

Most of the time though, if we give them a clean space, keep a close eye on things, and step in when needed, mama goats do an amazing job taking care of their babies.

And of course, there’s nothing better than walking into the barn and seeing brand new babies bouncing around.