Expert: Cheryl K. Smith - 11/7/2009

Question
Hi Cheryl,
I have two goats that I rescued about a year ago. Although they were starved when I brought them home they have fattened up nicely and are very friendly and loving. About two weeks ago they became lethargic, showed a loss of appetite, and the doe's bowels became loose. They have always been picky eaters but they can't even be tempted with carrots or sweet grain now. I'm thinking that maybe it's a worming issue as they haven't been wormed since I brought them home...But i was also going to give them some Via Viente as my neighbor gave that to her horse for similar symptoms...unfortunately don't have the $500 for a vet right now. Any ideas of what to check?
Thanks :D

Answer
Just go to the feed store and buy some dewormer such as ivermectin. You give it orally at twice the cattle dose. Look at their gums and bottom of the eye to see whether they are anemic. Some worms can do that. If so, get some Red Cell and give them that. Vitamin B shots can bring back appetite and yogurt can get good bugs back in the gut. Roughage such as wheat straw, fir boughs is good too.