Beginner Guide to Goat Hoof Care

The Importance Of Goat Hoof Care

Hooves are one of goats most vital organs. Healthy hooves allow goats to walk, eat, breed, and maintain an overall productive and happy life. When hooves are not maintained, goats can quickly develop sores, pain, infections, mobility problems, along side other health issues.

For many beginner goat owners, hoof trimming can be intimidating. Regular hoof maintenance is a regular part of taking care of goats and with practice becomes second nature. Most advanced hoof issues can be avoided with preventative trimmings.

In the wild, goats wear their hooves down naturally as they are native to rocky terrain. Domestic and farm raised goats often live in areas of higher rainfall. This results in soft pastures, wet pens, and mud which negate natural hoof wear.

Overgrown Hooves

Overgrown hooves are simply overgrown. As hooves become longer, deep pockets can form on the sole of the hoof. These pockets allow dirt, feces, bacteria, and moisture to collect and compact into the hoof. Overtime goats can develop joint and muscle pain due to being unable to walk normally. Regular trimmings help maintain proper hoof hygiene and shape.

Hoof Rot

Hoof rot is a bacterial infection of the hoof that is a direct consequence of compacted mud, feces, and bacteria. Hoof rot is painful for goats, it smells terrible, and can have deadly consequences if left untreated. Symptoms include limping, inability to walk, strong foul odor from the hoof, and weight loss. Goats with hoof rot are at a disadvantage when it comes to accessing food, defending themselves, and running away from danger. On our ranch, if we find that a goat has developed Hoof Rot.

Foot Scald

Foot scald (Fusobacterium necrophorum bacterial infection) is similar to hoof rot, however it occurs between the toes of the hoof. To generalize the condition it is basically athletes foot in goats. The skin between the toes of the hoof can become pink/white or raw. Foot Scald is the predecessor of hoof rot. To prevent foot scald goat stalls should be cleaned regularly. At Hillis Family Farms we use a layer of barn lime and expanding horse bedding for our stalls. This combination absorbs extra moisture and neutralizes/reduces ammonia and bacteria build up.

Basic Hoof Trimming Tips

Never aggressively trim hooves. It is safer and more effective to trim back hooves gradually than cutting large chunks all at once. When taking large amounts of hoof off at once, the chances of cutting too deep rise dramatically. Instead, it is best to take a more conservative approach. Blades and hoof knives are NOT for beginners. The goat and person trimming can be severely injured by an inexperienced individual using a hoof knife. For beginners it is best to become familiar with simple shears and a hoof rasp first. Once confidence is established, then begin practicing with hoof knives.

When to Call a Veteranarian

Hoof issues can develop into severe situations. Your goat should see a veterinarian if the goat is in severe pain or showing signs of infection. Contact your veterinarian if you notice severe limping, swelling, bleeding, strong infected odors, hoof rot that does not improve, or if your goat refuses to stand or walk. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications and help your goat heal quickly.

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