Why goats don't drink water and how to train them, what to do if they drank soap
Compliance with the drinking regime is the most important aspect of keeping goats, the violation of which is fraught with a decrease in milk yield and serious consequences for the health of livestock. Often farmers and breeders find that the goat does not drink water and do not understand why this is happening. In such a situation, it is necessary to understand the reasons for this behavior of the animal as soon as possible and take measures to solve the problem.
Causes of the problem
Refusal of liquid can have various reasons, starting with the capricious behavior of a picky goat and ending with the development of serious illnesses. The reason for the pathological refusal of cattle from liquid can be:
- viral and microbial diseases;
- intestinal infections;
- disturbances in the work of the digestive tract;
- hormonal disorders;
- helminthic invasions;
- stress.
In order to prevent the development of serious pathologies, if the goat regularly refuses to drink, combined with signs of malaise and intoxication, you should immediately consult a veterinarian.
If the condition and behavior of the goat is not suspicious, the following reasons for refusing water are possible:
- low temperature (goats do not like cold water);
- visible pollution (clean animals do not drink dirty water and are picky about the conditions of detention);
- an abundance of juicy food in the diet;
- insufficient physical activity (animals need to walk);
- taste monotony.
In situations like this, you can correct the goat's behavior by generating interest in the suggested drink in simple ways.
How to get a goat to drink water
If the barn is dry and clean, the diet is correct, the drink is fresh and warm, it is suggested before feeding, the goat is out for a walk, but still does not drink, you can make water with a flavor filling and provoke thirst.
One of the following components is added to the water:
- salt (the water should be slightly salted);
- sugar or jam;
- banana peel;
- chopped apples or pears.
Sometimes breeders resort to trickery to train their cattle to drink by pouring water on top of the feed. To get to it, you first have to drink a layer of liquid.
What to do if a goat drank soapy water
If a goat drank a solution of synthetic detergent, it could be poisonous and could have serious consequences.
In this case, it is necessary to perform a gastric lavage, induce vomiting, and put a cleansing enema.
Then enterosorbent should be given to the animal (Enterosgel or Polysorb). Adequate fluid supply must be ensured to avoid dehydration. Expressed signs of intoxication, deterioration of the animal's condition require urgent veterinary intervention.
