[regandmeg]

Hello,
I have three Nigerian Dwarf does that are eight months old and they are getting fat. By fat I don't mean big bellies, they are chunky. Right now, besides free choice minerals, they are only getting local grass hay. I don't restrict it but I am starting to wonder if I should. They are kept in a barn and have access to a small field but there is very little grass.
My question is, should I try to find lower quality grass hay or just restrict how much they get?
Thanks!
P.S. I will try to get photos and weight on them tonight.

 

[NigerianDwarfOwner707]

Photos would be helpful, where are you seeing the "chunkiness?"

 

[regandmeg]

Neck, back legs, over their ribs. Basically they look very well conditioned

They are fluffy right now due to it being winter but besides the hair and hay bellies that they get, their bodies are pretty chunky.

I will take photos tonight when I do chores and upload them.

 

[ksalvagno]

Nigerian Dwarfs are usually easy keepers. I wouldn't restrict their hay much. If you want to mix in a lower quality hay, you could try it. But they may not like it and refuse to eat it.

 

[SalteyLove]

You can also try to increase their exercise. Add a hay rack on the far side of their field and only offer hay there on fair-weather days. Or other options that get them walking as far as possible! Climbing/jumping structures as well.

 

[regandmeg]

I tried attaching photos. I’m not sure if it worked.

 

[SalteyLove]

Yes, it does look like some of them are becoming flat tables on the back!

Do you have anywhere you can walk them a few times per week outside of their own? Not sure if you have some acreage or a neighbor's woods without roaming dogs.